Rates
Yes, this is once more about rates and it calls upon thousands of ratepayers: As I have pointed out in my open letter to John Carter in April, there are many of us who don't receive what he calls "essential services", for instance drinking water, sewerage, rubbish disposal or animal management. Especially in challenging times like now this is a hardship for all of us but if we read what our Mayor has written, like (quote) "...Your Council is also taking a hands-on role helping the far North respond to this pandemic....At the same time, we are ensuring the essential services WE ALL RELY ON CONTINUE UNINTERUPTED...They are VITAL to the wellbeing of our communities..." (unquote) then we are left speechless because his words are indeed misleading and untrue since in many parts of the district these in the highest degree important services have never been delivered, let alone now when they do especially matter. However: We are still expected to pay rates for something essential that is not available to us. This is unacceptable and I appeal to all of you who think the same: let's unite in our efforts to change this injustice to the old principle of "user pays." Now this is more important than ever before, but to be successful we need numbers. Therefore please write to atair.nz@gmail.com and/or go to transition towns Bay of Islands www.facebook.com... Together we are stronger!
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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81.9% Yes
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15.3% No
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2.7% Other - I'll share below
Think You’ve Got the Answer? Today’s Riddle Says ‘Prove It’!
If eleven plus two equals one, what does nine plus five equal?
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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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.