Marae opens doors to homeless.
I applaud the Apumoana Marae committee for opening their doors and their hearts to those currently in need of temporary housing in our community. I am sure that the people of the marae will not discriminate between Maori and non-Maori – homelessness is homelessness whichever way you look at it.
However in my view the National led Government have a lot to answer for. The recent reshuffle of Cabinet has seen the position of the Housing Minister disestablished. The shifting of a once (individual) ministerial responsibility to that of a (collective) local government responsibility essentially removes Central Government from any accountability around this contentious issue. Does this shift mean that the National led Government has finally acknowledged the fact that our country has a housing crisis?
The National Government backed the Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPPA) and quickly made changes to our legislation to align with the TPPA. This legislation included the Local Government Act 2002 Amendment Bill which many believed would be the death of local democracy. I believe the TPPA is a tool to usurp our sovereignty. While many think this agreement is now dead in the water, I say watch this space.
National has delegated more responsibility to Local Government while looking to diminish their decision making roles. If we continue to support this current National led Government then eventually our local councils will be powerless when it comes to representing the people who put them there. We need to support those who put people first before profit.
It’s Riddle Time! Beat the Neighbourhood with Your Smarts!
Which of the following words don't belong in the group and why?
CORSET, COSTER, SECTOR, ESCORT, COURTS
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
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Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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75.7% Yes
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22.9% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
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