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One reader suggested banning sprinklers, another says high water costs shouldn’t be a surprise.
What do you think should happen with Hamilton's water services?
You can add to our letters page by emailing editor@waikatotimes.co.nz with your full name and (not for publication) address … View moreOne reader suggested banning sprinklers, another says high water costs shouldn’t be a surprise.
What do you think should happen with Hamilton's water services?
You can add to our letters page by emailing editor@waikatotimes.co.nz with your full name and (not for publication) address and phone number. Letters should be no longer than 250 words.
There was a serious, apparently gang related, fight that took place on the campus of the renamed - from Melville High and Melville Middle to Mangakotukutuku College - state school at around 11.30 a.m. today. No mention of this - still (at 8.30 p.m. on the same day as the incident) - on the school … View moreThere was a serious, apparently gang related, fight that took place on the campus of the renamed - from Melville High and Melville Middle to Mangakotukutuku College - state school at around 11.30 a.m. today. No mention of this - still (at 8.30 p.m. on the same day as the incident) - on the school website. And the Waikato Times also only published their story late this afternoon. www.waikatotimes.co.nz... Nothing published in Stuff or NZ Herald.
Crucially, the new Principal, Dr Thilo Govender, sent an e-mail to parents and caregivers at 2:56 p.m. Too little too late is all I am going to say about this communication for now.
Three students we know were traumatised by what they heard and saw. The Waikato Times used the words "brawl" and "disorder" to describe, and I believe intentionally downplay, what happened. It was reported that Dr Govender "declined to speak to The Waikato Times". A lack of honesty, openness and transparency is never helpful and I know I am not alone in saying that parents and caregivers expect and deserve better. Certainly students, parents and caregivers want an full and frank explanation of what happened, what the school's policy and procedures are i.r.o. traumatic incidents like this was, and, importantly what has been done to prevent a recurrence. Also does this school have a Traumatic Incident Team and if not then why not?
I have heard from a reliable source that a Police officer told a parent who was waiting in the carpark for their child (that had called them from the school office crying and asking to be fetched from the school) that a student had been stabbed. The Police officer mentioned a gun being involved too. And as far as the claim that a person had been arrested for assaulting Police, the aforementioned parent was also told by the same aforementioned Police officer that a parent had been arrested for trying to gain access to the school grounds as he wanted to take his child home, was denied entry and got lippy and boisterous as a result.
The Ministry of Education knows that the now ex-Melville High School was a volatile and dangerous environment, and it in fact funded 2 security guards for the last 5 months of 2023 because the then Principal, Mr Clive Hamill, considered it so unsafe. Now we have a repeat of the same, but believed to be worse, dangerous behaviour under new school management! No guessing what message this sends to students, parents and caregivers? Again, students, parents and caregivers want to know what is being done by the Ministry of Education to prevent a recurrence of today's incident.
Many students were distressed by what happened and this was made worse because they could not call their parents as their mobile phones were locked away and not able to be used. Students not being able to reach out to loved ones and get the support, comfort and assurance of parents and caregivers during stressful incidents like this is not acceptable. They also have the right to expect a safe and secure learning environment and the fact that the "new" school is repeating the history of the "old" school troubles me greatly.
Crucially, the right to be told immediately when something goes wrong at your child's school is being ignored by Mangakotukutuku School, and I am really angry that messages were posted on the school's FACEBOOK PAGE which hardly any parent looks at. Notably as well, soon after we heard what had happened - through another parent calling us - I made a call to the school but no one answered. Not even an answering machine where parents and caregivers can record messages!!!
South Africa resumed on 220-6 and the Black Caps are seeking quick wickets.
If we can beat, or draw with, the Proteas we could get a historic series win.
The Pet Life.
It’s the life you share with your pet, and the life they share with you. We believe the pet life’s a life worth protecting.
Which is why we are dedicated to helping pets live longer, healthier and happier lives every day.
We’re proudly born and bred in New Zealand, and … View moreThe Pet Life.
It’s the life you share with your pet, and the life they share with you. We believe the pet life’s a life worth protecting.
Which is why we are dedicated to helping pets live longer, healthier and happier lives every day.
We’re proudly born and bred in New Zealand, and are equally proud to partner with the NZ Veterinary Association and Pet Refuge. Just two ways we’re there to support the Pet Life community.
Protect the Pet Life.
A review that could determine the future of Te Huia train service is nearly complete, and some promising data is emerging.
The review of the Hamilton-Auckland train will influence whether Waka Kotahi keeps funding the trial beyond the middle of the year - but it won’t be ready for this … View moreA review that could determine the future of Te Huia train service is nearly complete, and some promising data is emerging.
The review of the Hamilton-Auckland train will influence whether Waka Kotahi keeps funding the trial beyond the middle of the year - but it won’t be ready for this Friday’s multi-agency Future Proof public transport sub-committee hui, as initially indicated.
Instead, the New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi board will see it first, and a date for that isn’t yet confirmed.
Water use “quickly” dropped by 25% for the average user, the need for new infrastructure was delayed, leaks were identified and fixed more quickly and water bills for the user reduced.
These are some of the things that changed in both Tauranga and Waipā when their councils introduced water … View moreWater use “quickly” dropped by 25% for the average user, the need for new infrastructure was delayed, leaks were identified and fixed more quickly and water bills for the user reduced.
These are some of the things that changed in both Tauranga and Waipā when their councils introduced water meters to their districts in 1999 and 2017 respectively.
The number of people beaming in to watch their councils online has either stayed consistent or dropped slightly, but councils say the benefits still outweigh the costs.
Most councils in the Waikato report double digit viewer numbers, and one says it still hasn’t caught up with its colleagues … View moreThe number of people beaming in to watch their councils online has either stayed consistent or dropped slightly, but councils say the benefits still outweigh the costs.
Most councils in the Waikato report double digit viewer numbers, and one says it still hasn’t caught up with its colleagues and only broadcasts meetings if necessary.
Experiencing broadband troubles? Our recent neighbourly poll reveals the top two issues: unstable connections and pricey bills!
Don't worry! Check out our latest article for expert tips to solve these issues.
PLUS, use Broadband Compare to compare NZ's best broadband deals & … View moreExperiencing broadband troubles? Our recent neighbourly poll reveals the top two issues: unstable connections and pricey bills!
Don't worry! Check out our latest article for expert tips to solve these issues.
PLUS, use Broadband Compare to compare NZ's best broadband deals & save up to $300/year. Enjoy smoother internet while keeping cash for treats!
Classical crossover singer Rebecca Nelson told a captivated Cambridge audience how the town holds a special place in her heart for several reasons.
Rebecca’s performance was one of three shows lined up to entertain residents and soon-to-be residents of Ryman Healthcare’s Patrick Hogan … View moreClassical crossover singer Rebecca Nelson told a captivated Cambridge audience how the town holds a special place in her heart for several reasons.
Rebecca’s performance was one of three shows lined up to entertain residents and soon-to-be residents of Ryman Healthcare’s Patrick Hogan Village in Cambridge, Hilda Ross Village down the road in Hamilton and James Wattie Village in Havelock North.
Describing her connection to Ryman, she says: “It feels like coming home and performing for friends and family.”
Click read for the full story.
This Valentine’s Day, why not snuggle up with your loved one for a movie night in?
We've curated the ultimate list of the latest romantic flicks and binge-worthy shows to make your evening extra special.
Plus, don't forget to compare broadband options on Broadband Compare for the… View moreThis Valentine’s Day, why not snuggle up with your loved one for a movie night in?
We've curated the ultimate list of the latest romantic flicks and binge-worthy shows to make your evening extra special.
Plus, don't forget to compare broadband options on Broadband Compare for the best streaming deals!
It's back for a fifth year! Recognise the best local businesses in your neighbourhood by nominating them in the 2024 Prospa Local Business Hero Awards.
Whether it's a bakery team who occasionally sneak you an extra sweet treat, a supermarket employee that's helped carry your bags… View moreIt's back for a fifth year! Recognise the best local businesses in your neighbourhood by nominating them in the 2024 Prospa Local Business Hero Awards.
Whether it's a bakery team who occasionally sneak you an extra sweet treat, a supermarket employee that's helped carry your bags to the car or a bookshop that goes out of its way to find the best read just for you. Prospa Local Business Hero helps you show some love to the small businesses with the biggest hearts.
Plus your nomination could help a small business win over $10,000 worth of prizes!
Be a local hero yourself; give your favourite local business owner the recognition they deserve by nominating them in the 2024 Prospa Local Business Hero awards.
Something very similar to John Key's favoured design was the background for Trade Minister Todd McClay during recent international talks.
He says people shouldn't read anything into it, though his Labour counterpart has other ideas.
Do you think we should have another debate on the … View moreSomething very similar to John Key's favoured design was the background for Trade Minister Todd McClay during recent international talks.
He says people shouldn't read anything into it, though his Labour counterpart has other ideas.
Do you think we should have another debate on the NZ flag?
Happy Chinese Lunar New Year from the team at NZ Compare!
May your year be as powerful and fortunate as the mighty dragon!
Don't forget to enter our Year of the Dragon contest to WIN 1 of 3 X $50 gift cards.
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Makeover a stool with Resene paints and reuse as a table or organiser. Find out how to rejuvenate your old furniture with these easy step by step instructions.
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