OCTOBER'S WEATHER IN KĀPITI
Kāpiti-Horowhenua experienced the coldest October in a decade, largely due to the persistent nor’westerlies, particularly over the first weeks of the month. Rainfall was again well below average and it was sunnier than usual. We again escaped the severe weather events of some regions, and local warnings again failed to eventuate, although there were a couple of scary wind storms.
The average daily maximum temperature was 17.1 degrees, only three points below average, largely due to an increase in temperatures towards the end of the month. However, eastern areas of central New Zealand were a degree or more warmer due to the same nor-westerlies raising their temperatures. Blenheim had 11 days over 20 degrees, we had one, that on the last day of the month.
Rainfall of around 70 mm was deficient by about 25 percent; not a good sign for summer.
The lack of sunshine early in the month saw an increase later, with the equivalent of 18 sunny days being above average.
With the wind decreasing and increasing sunshine, November could be a summer month (based on a 20 degree temperature average) as it often is, but with an average of 19.3 degrees over the last decade it cannot be guaranteed.
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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4.6% Second half of November
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43.4% 1st December
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17.6% A week before Christmas
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33.2% Whenever you wish
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1.1% Other - I'll share below
Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
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82.8% Yes
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14.6% No
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2.6% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.