BENEFITS OF A SUSTAINABLE HOME
A sustainable home has less impact on the environment, but not at a cost to the occupiers.
You can make your home sustainable and reduce its impact on the surrounding environment in many ways.
THE PROBLEM
Each year, homes account for almost 30% of New Zealand's electricity consumption and are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Residential gardens are often a source of invasive non-native species that replace unique New Zealand fauna and flora.
HOW WILL YOU BENEFIT FROM A SUSTAINABLE HOME
COMFORT
A sustainable home is designed to fit the occupants’ needs and adapt to their changing requirements.
HEALTH
Asthma, headaches, eczema and sneezing fits are linked to moulds and other toxins found in most households.
Damp homes are a key factor in respiratory problems such as asthma, colds and flu, according to Otago University research.
While the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) says about 45% of New Zealand homes are too damp, technology can help eliminate the toxins, particulates and excessive moisture that cause respiratory diseases.
WARMTH
The Building Research Association of New Zealand (BRANZ) found that about 30% of New Zealand homes are colder than World Health Organisation recommended minimum temperatures (16°C in bedrooms, 18°C in living areas).
Sustainable homes use the sun’s energy, capturing heat for healthy, comfortable inside temperatures. A fully insulated house uses 50% less energy for heating than an uninsulated house.
Otago University research showed that householders in insulated homes took fewer sick days and visited their doctor less often than those living in houses without insulation.
COST
Insulation, smart heating options, and energy- and water-efficient appliances can make homes cheaper to run. The payback period for investing in insulation may be as little as 1 year for a simple hot water cylinder wrap, or 3 years for ceiling insulation.
INVESTMENT
Green homes also appear to be a wise investment. A survey conducted by Realestate.co.nz suggests that one in 10 people are prepared to pay up to 25% more for a sustainable home. Banks are starting to offer ‘green mortgages’ providing customers with a package of discounts on eco-friendly home products because they predict that these homes will better retain value over time.
Poll: Should drivers retake the theory test every 10 years?
Drivers get where they need to go, but sometimes it seems that we are all abiding by different road rules (for example, the varying ways drivers indicate around a roundabout).
Do you think drivers should be required to take a quick driving theory test every 10 years?
Vote in the poll and share any road rules that you've seen bent! 😱
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49.5% Yes
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48.6% No
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1.9% Other - I'll share below
Tai Chi October - December 2024
Hi, I'm Andrew Hardwick, Tai Chi Instructor and member of NZ National Tai Chi Chuan Association Incorporated (NZNTCCA). The name of my wellness-focussed Tai Chi class is Not Strictly Tai Chi. The quirky name is a humorous twist on the name of shows like "Strictly Come Dancing", and from the fact that (a) I'm not strict and (b) If I see an exercise I think would provide a health benefit to my Tai Chi students, I will add it to my class offerings.
My Upper Hutt venue is Te Kupenga o Rongomai - Maidstone Sports Hub. Classes are in school term times only, and are open to all ages.
So far in 2024 we've had ages ranging from Mums attending while their kids are at school, through to retired people looking for healthy exercise.
No experience necessary. Experienced and beginners equally welcome
School Term 4 classes will be on the following dates
Wednesday evenings, from 7pm - 8pm
October 16th
October 23rd
October 30th
November 6th
November 13th
November 20th
November 27th
December 4th
December 11th
December 18th
Thursday mornings, from 10am - 11am
October 17th
October 24th
October 31st
November 7th
November 14th
November 21st
November 28th
December 5th
December 12th
December 19th
Enquiries welcome on 021 153 2508
Andrew Hardwick - Tai Chi Instructor
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I am lighter than air, but a hundred people cannot lift me. What am I?
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