JANUARY'S WEATHER TOPS
January’s weather in Kāpiti was warmer, sunnier and drier than average, and we began our second year free of any extreme/severe weather.
Our average daily maximum temperature of 24.2 degrees was over a degree warmer than a 13-year average, but only a couple of points higher than January 2023.
Every day exceeded 20 degrees, with 11 days over 25 degrees. The warmest was Monday 22 with 29.5 degrees in Paraparaumu. For coastal Kāpiti with its sea breezes, reaching 29 degrees is a rare event and over the last 10 years has only occurred three times. As usual, Masterton and Blenheim, at 25.7 degrees had the highest average maximums, with Kāpiti the second-highest in central New Zealand. However, our overall mean temperature of 19.8 degrees was the highest in central New Zealand reflecting our warmer nights.
Breaking the spell of recent cloudy months, January received the equivalent of 20 sunny days, nearly two more than average.
Rainfall of 52mm recorded at the airport was around 80% of average, again reflecting the low precipitation of recent months.
February is traditionally our warmest and sunniest month, but last year this occurred in January, so It will be interesting to see how this February pans out. However, as autumn approaches the days are becoming noticeably shorter.
Poll: Is the increase in disability parking fines fair?
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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89.3% Yes, it's fair
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9.9% No, it's unreasonable
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0.8% Other - I'll share below
Heirloom Tomatoes, Zucchini and Cucumber Plants at Waikanae and Otaki Markets
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.
Gardener available
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