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367 days ago

Electric vehicle experience to be aware of.

Warwick from Paraparaumu Beach

A couple of years ago my wife and I bought a new well-known and respected brand of hybrid car. We decided on a hybrid because of the advantages offered by electric vehicles coupled with the extended range of a petrol motor. It has been a gem of a car - until last weekend when it refused to start. No warning. No alarm. NOTHING. It just would not start. By absolute chance the local AA rep was across the road on a separate call-out. He was extremely efficient, explained the problem, and was able to start our car so we could get home. He then came to our home and fitted a new battery. It transpires that while the car is in the electric mode, the auxiliary battery is unable to be charged. As in conventional cars there is an alternator connected to the petrol motor, but not in electric. So, just a heads-up for hybrid owners: Be aware - save money, petrol and the planet by going electric, and be prepared for a great deal of inconvenience and annoyance and to pay out between $250 and $600 for a replacement auxiliary battery which could (and did) fail with no warning after about 35000 kilometers. Or just use the petrol mode. Maybe I'll just go and buy a horse.

More messages from your neighbours
3 days ago

Poll: Is the increase in disability parking fines fair?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

In October, the fine for parking in a designated mobility car park without a permit has jumped from $150 to $750—a 400% increase!

The goal is to keep these spaces open for those who truly need them. Do you think this big increase in the fine is fair? Share your thoughts below.

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Is the increase in disability parking fines fair?
  • 89.4% Yes, it's fair
    89.4% Complete
  • 9.9% No, it's unreasonable
    9.9% Complete
  • 0.7% Other - I'll share below
    0.7% Complete
2856 votes
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1 day ago

Heirloom Tomatoes, Zucchini and Cucumber Plants at Waikanae and Otaki Markets

Val from Otaki District

Rain, wind and cold - just what these veggies don't like! However, better times are on the way and you can get a head start if you have a warm sheltered spot to nurture these seedings. They are coming along well in spite of the conditions.
We'll be at Waikanae tomorrow morning OR come see us at the massive Market and Camping Expo at Otaki on Sunday from 10.00am to 4.00pm. There will be a lot going on, plenty of entertainment and foodtrucks for sustenance, plus the usual array of quality stalls.
So came and check us out. Even if you are not ready to plant just yet, we can offer advice on varieties and cultivation. If you would like the full ;list of tomato varieties available, please PM me.

5 days ago

Gardener available

Michelle from Otaki District

Hi, Experienced gardener available. If you want help to tidy up your garden and get ready for summer then message me and hopefully I can help. Local references available. Michelle