Waikuku & Waikuku Beach, Waikuku

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112 days ago

Home projects

The Team from Resene ColorShop Rangiora

Creating an office out of a small room by utilising built-in furniture, floating shelves, a tidy charging station and Resene Atlas makes space-saving sense.

Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.

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112 days ago

Ban proposal upsets Fish & Game

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Fish and Game is unimpressed with a proposal to ban hunting dogs from the Ashley Rakahuri River estuary during duck shooting season.

The Waimakariri District Council is consulting on a new Northern Pegasus Bay Bylaw, which includes banning all dogs on … View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Fish and Game is unimpressed with a proposal to ban hunting dogs from the Ashley Rakahuri River estuary during duck shooting season.

The Waimakariri District Council is consulting on a new Northern Pegasus Bay Bylaw, which includes banning all dogs on the spit and the Ashley Rakahuri River and Saltwater Creek estuary.

The bylaw governs what activities are allowed on the district’s beaches.
The new rules will remove an exemption which has allowed holders of Fish and Game hunting licenses to take their dogs into the estuary area during gamebird hunting season.

The measures are designed to protect ecological values and bird habitats around the estuary and wetlands.

But Fish and Game North Canterbury game bird specialist Matt Garrick was not impressed with the proposed ban.

He said he corresponded with the council a year ago, but had not had any further contact.

‘‘I explained that duck season does not overlap during critical, sensitive periods, such as nesting, so there would be no conflict with dogs used for game bird hunting.’’

He said he requested data to demonstrate game bird hunting and dogs in the winter was having an effect on the estuary's bird life, but had heard nothing further.

The estuary is home to threatened bird species including wrybills, black-bill gulls, banded dotterels, black-fronted terns and pied oystercatchers, some of which are also endangered.

A council spokesperson said staff reached out to Fish and Game North Canterbury in January and May last year to inform the organisation it was conducting a review of the bylaw.

‘‘Based on feedback we received from the public consultation on the bylaw, which ran for three months over summer of 2023-24, we are now proposing to exclude all dogs and this would include hunting dogs.

‘‘We welcome any feedback on the proposed changes to the bylaw from Fish and Game and any other group or individual.’’

Submissions can be made at letstalk.waimakariri.govt.nz... until June 14.

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

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112 days ago

Corokia 'Genties Green' Plants

Vicki from Rangiora

Corokias at a bargain price of $3 per plant. Good size (approx 20cm) healthy plants. Grow well in almost all conditions. Great for hedges.

Price: $3

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112 days ago

‘No clear direction’: Schools await fate of building projects

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Crunchtime is fast approaching for two North Canterbury schools bulging at the seams.

Woodend School and Te Kura o Tuahiwi are on the Ministry of Education’s list of 352 building projects under review.

The review is not expected to be completed … View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Crunchtime is fast approaching for two North Canterbury schools bulging at the seams.

Woodend School and Te Kura o Tuahiwi are on the Ministry of Education’s list of 352 building projects under review.

The review is not expected to be completed until July.

Te Kura o Tuahiwi, a Māori immersion and bilingual school between Kaiapoi and Rangiora, was due to receive five new classrooms and a new hall, with building set to begin last December and be completed next month.

But it was delayed and is now on hold, pending the review.

Principal Dot Singh said the project was designed to take the school’s capacity to 230 students.

For the now school is sitting at its present capacity of 160, with another 33 pupils pre-enrolled to start later this year.

‘‘Now we are wondering where we will put all of those tamariki.

‘‘I feel they (the ministry) will come to the party in some form, it just might not be how we planned it.’’

Woodend School principal Andrew Retallick said his roll was continuing to grow faster than anticipated.

‘‘As off today we have 480 students enrolled, so now it is looking like we will have have at least 520 by the end of the year.

‘‘I’ve had 70 students enrol so far this year and we have 50 year 8s leaving at the end of the year, so it shows you how much we are growing.’’

The site’s capacity is about 490 and by using the school library as a classroom, Retallick said the school could cater for around 510 students.

The school’s growth comes on the back of the booming Ravenswood subdivision.

‘‘The toughest part is the uncertainty and having no clear direction, but I can’t do anything about it until I get some direction from the ministry,’’ he said.

Schools around the country are feeling the pressure while they wait for an update from the Ministry of Education’s review.

Education Minister Erica Stanford announced an inquiry in February, which immediately put the brakes on the projects.

At the time, Stanford said the scope of the building works were ‘‘unrealistic and unaffordable’’.

Ministry of Education Te Tai Runga (South) Hautū (leader) Nancy Bell said there were no updates on the North Canterbury building projects.

‘‘We continue to work closely with the schools in our planning to deliver roll growth teaching spaces to accommodate the schools’ in-zone rolls as required.’’

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

113 days ago

Have you experienced loss in some form or another? GRIEF

Rae from Room To Heal

Whether it is the passing of a loved one, then endo of a relationship, or the loss of a dream.

GRIEF can be messy. Its a rollercoaster of emotions that can leave us feeling lost, alone, and overwhelmed. But here's is the beautiful truth: in our moments of deepest pain, we find our greatest … View more
Whether it is the passing of a loved one, then endo of a relationship, or the loss of a dream.

GRIEF can be messy. Its a rollercoaster of emotions that can leave us feeling lost, alone, and overwhelmed. But here's is the beautiful truth: in our moments of deepest pain, we find our greatest strength.

So, if you are in the midst of a storm right now, know that you are not alone. Your feelings are valid, your tears are sacred, and your heartache is a testament to the depth of your love.

Take all the time to heal. Surround yourself with love, kindness and compassion - from others but most importantly, from yourself.

You know what? Its okay not to be okay. In fact it's more than okay - it's human

All First Light Natural Flower Essences - www.immersioncosmetics.co.nz...

Exceptional Products & Services
Room to Heal in Rangiora
Reiki Practitioner
Therapeutic Massage Therapist
Bioptron Medical Light Therapist
Love and Light
Rae

Price: $28

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113 days ago

Nationwide protests

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Nationwide protests are taking place today (Thursday) having been organised by Te Pāti Māori and other connected to Toitū Te Tiriti movement.
There is likely to be some traffic disruptions so Waka Kotahi are closely monitoring the situation. Below are the locations of these gatherings across … View more
Nationwide protests are taking place today (Thursday) having been organised by Te Pāti Māori and other connected to Toitū Te Tiriti movement.
There is likely to be some traffic disruptions so Waka Kotahi are closely monitoring the situation. Below are the locations of these gatherings across the country.

Northland:
Whangārei, Farmer’s car park, 9am.
Kaitāia, Commerce St, 9am.

Auckland:
West Auckland, BP Hobsonville, 6.30am.
South Auckland, Z Petrol station, 6.30am.
North Auckland, Palmers Albany Garden Centre, 6.30am.
Central Auckland, Aotea Square, 11am.

Waikato:
Hamilton, Kirikiriroa Marae, 7.30am.
Matamata, Matamata Woolworths, 6.45am.
Te Puaha, Weraroa Marae, 8.30am.
Hauraki, Victoria Park, 12pm.

Waiariki:
Tauranga, Whareroa Reserve, 8am.
Whakatāne, SH30, 7.30am.
Ōpōtiki, Waioweka bridge, 7am.
Taupō, Lake Terrace, 8am.
Tūrangi, Tūrangi town centre, 9am.
Rotorua, Lake Rd intersection, Old Taupō Rd, Fenton St and Sala St, 7am.

Ikaroa-Rāwhiti:
Tūranganui a Kiwa, Heipipi Park, 7am.
Hastings, Hastings Clock Tower, 7am.
Wairarapa, Masterton Town Hall, 12pm.

Te Tai Hauāuru:
Hāwera, Hāwera Netball Courts, 10.30am.
Palmerston North, Te Marae o Hine, 7.15am.
Tokoroa, Leith Place, 8am.

Wellington:
A hīkoi to Parliament 12pm.

South Island:
Christchurch, Bridge of Remembrance, 11am.
Nelson, Church steps, 12.30pm.
Dunedin, Queens Gardens, 12pm.

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113 days ago

Have your say on the Northern Pegasus Bay Bylaw 2024

The Team from Waimakariri District Council

Based on your feedback we have proposed changes to the Northern Pegasus Bay Bylaw. Click below to have your say

114 days ago

Waimakariri Gorge Bridge Update and daytime closure

The Team from Waimakariri District Council

Following the successful sealing of the Waimakariri Gorge Bridge on Thursday 16 May the bridge is now open at night.

Attention now turns to the installation of the guardrail which will require short 10 minute closures during the daytime.


We had anticipated this to be complete by Friday 31 … View more
Following the successful sealing of the Waimakariri Gorge Bridge on Thursday 16 May the bridge is now open at night.

Attention now turns to the installation of the guardrail which will require short 10 minute closures during the daytime.


We had anticipated this to be complete by Friday 31 May but the pouring of the concrete beams has been slower than expected and will require another two weeks to complete.

Expect daytime short 10m closures until mid-June.

However, the slower progress has allowed the completion of other maintenance work to take place. We thank you for your continued patience.

114 days ago

Product and food recalls

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

These items have been recalled, some in the last few days. If you have one of these items at home, click on the title to see the details to ensure it is not a risk to your household.

Food recalls:
Pams plant based creamy tomato pasta bake
Mrs Rogers Naturals brand gluten free batter mix
View more
These items have been recalled, some in the last few days. If you have one of these items at home, click on the title to see the details to ensure it is not a risk to your household.

Food recalls:
Pams plant based creamy tomato pasta bake
Mrs Rogers Naturals brand gluten free batter mix
The Collective brand Suckies strawberry probiotic yoghurt

Product recalls:
Country Road two-tone demm mug
Postie Little Kids adventure pants
Fortis heavy duty weight bench
Honda outboard marine engine
Quincy Mae baby/kids nightwear
Ryobi airwave stapler/nailer
Puretec Filtration
Grabstore pruning saw / chainsaw
Full Speed Ahead crankset

We hope this message was helpful in keeping you and your family safe.

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114 days ago

Waimakariri’s Dog of the District 2024

The Team from Waimakariri District Council

With annual dog registration upon us, there’s no better time to announce the fiercest competition for canines north of the Waimakariri Bridge.

Introducing… Waimakariri’s Dog of the District!

Follow the link to find out how to enter the competition

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115 days ago

Longing for a faster TAN with less sun exposure?

Rae from Room To Heal

Not all tanning products are created equal - The Melanoboost difference. Melanoboost distinguishes itself through its utilisation of biomimetic peptides designed to assist the natural tanning process indoors and out.

These intelligent actives are designed to boost melanin concentration in the … View more
Not all tanning products are created equal - The Melanoboost difference. Melanoboost distinguishes itself through its utilisation of biomimetic peptides designed to assist the natural tanning process indoors and out.

These intelligent actives are designed to boost melanin concentration in the skin in the lead up to UV exposure.

Melanin is the pigment which makes our skin tan. Melanin is usually only produced when your skin is exposed to UV light, however the biomimetic peptides used by Melanoboost are designed to mimic melanogenesis without UV exposure which allows you to start the tanning process indoors. This is what makes the science of biomimetic tanning technology so game changing!

The more abundant your melanin levels are before you head outdoors, the better prepared your skin is for exposure to sunlight in moderate amounts, and the better its ability to tan more effectively with minimal sun exposure.

Of course, when spending time outdoors, we always recommend a balanced approach to UV exposure to maximise benefit and minimise risk, and the use sunscreen.

Shop the Melanoboost Range here: www.immersioncosmetics.co.nz...

Exceptional Products & Services
Room to Heal in Rangiora
Reiki Practitioner
Therapeutic Massage Therapist
Bioptron Medical Light Therapist
Love and Light
Rae

Price: $62.95

115 days ago

Powerline tampering/theft across Christchurch.

The Team from Canterbury Police

Police are appealing for information following recent incidents of powerline tampering and theft across Christchurch.

Over the last 10 days, Police have been notified of increasing reports of powerline theft and tampering.
Incidents occurred in multiple central locations such as Disraeli Street… View more
Police are appealing for information following recent incidents of powerline tampering and theft across Christchurch.

Over the last 10 days, Police have been notified of increasing reports of powerline theft and tampering.
Incidents occurred in multiple central locations such as Disraeli Street in Addington, the area surrounding Hillview Road and Phillips Road in Phillipstown and Brougham Street, they are as wide spanning as West Melton, Halswell, and Marshlands.

Police have informed Community Patrol and Frontline Police units on what to look out for and have communicated with businesses and residents in affected areas.
Police are also engaging with local scrap metal dealers as part of the investigation.
On multiple recent occasions powerline tampering and the theft of copper from the powerlines have led to power outages on affected streets.

Typically once the offenders get what they want, the powerlines are left in an exposed and dangerous state. In one occasion powerlines were tampered with and left broken outside of a Phillip Street Preschool. Fortunately, no one has been harmed, but as far as Police are concerned it is only a matter of time.

Senior Sergeant Roy Appley says: “Our message to offenders is to stop this behaviour before someone, including yourself, gets hurt.
“You are putting yourselves and others at extreme risk of electrocution, for such a small return.”
We are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in identifying and locating those involved.
“If you hear anything out of the ordinary overnight, do not think nothing of it.
“We need Christchurch residents to be aware of the risk of exposed or damaged wires – do not touch them and call Orion on 0800 363 9898 straight away,” says Snr Sgt Appley.
Police urge residents to ring 111 immediately if you see anyone acting suspiciously around power poles and lines, or 105 after the fact

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115 days ago

Keep yourself protected against Covid

Ministry of Health

It might not be making quite so many headlines these days, but unfortunately, Covid is still here. If you’re 65 or over, taking care of yourself is just as important as ever.

The good news is, keeping up to date with the Covid vaccine can help protect you from serious illness. It’s free. And… View more
It might not be making quite so many headlines these days, but unfortunately, Covid is still here. If you’re 65 or over, taking care of yourself is just as important as ever.

The good news is, keeping up to date with the Covid vaccine can help protect you from serious illness. It’s free. And recommended for you and many others as long as you haven’t had the vaccine, or Covid, in the last 6 months.

To book your vaccination, or talk to your healthcare provider.
Find out more

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115 days ago

Neurodiversity in schools: ‘It’s not new, but our understanding has increased’

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

North Canterbury schools say supporting children with conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia and anxiety is ‘‘not new’’, but there is greater understanding of neurodiversity.

A recent report from the Education Hub, an organisation which connects… View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

North Canterbury schools say supporting children with conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia and anxiety is ‘‘not new’’, but there is greater understanding of neurodiversity.

A recent report from the Education Hub, an organisation which connects teachers with education research, warned schools were failing neurodivergent children.

It said the education system was broken and heading for a major crisis, and it called for more funding.

Rangiora High School head of student support Tim Heidmann said up to 15% of students had a diagnosis one or more neurodivergent conditions and/or learning difficulties.

‘‘I don’t think having neurodivergence is anything new, but our understanding has increased.

‘‘We have always had people with autism in our society, so that’s not new, but our ability to respond is better."

Heidmann said he regularly met with whānau to discuss a student’s needs and what supports were available, but this was always limited by resources.

‘‘We can be prepared and forewarned, but in terms of having specific supports, it is responsive to the needs of the child.’’

It meant the school needed to be flexible, as each students’ needs were different.

While a diagnosis helped to guide how a student might be supported, it did no excuse ‘‘bad behaviour’’, he said.

‘‘It does help us to understand why a student might be behaving in this way. It might be their way of asking for help.’’

Kaiapoi High School principal Jason Reid said staff worked out a plan to support neurodivergent students based on a range of information from whānau, previous schools and outside agencies.

‘‘If we know what techniques have worked well and what techniques have been ineffective, we can use that to work out a pathway of learning.

‘‘A lot of it is about putting good information in teachers’ hands.’’

Catering for the diverse needs in a modern classroom provides a challenge for teachers, who are more aware than ever that one size does not fit all, Reid said.

‘‘We were discussing the other day whether there is a greater proportion of neurodivergent students than ever before.

‘‘Our group could not agree on a straightforward ‘yes' or ‘no' answer to this question.

‘‘It seems there is a greater proportion of our community who are neurodiverse.

‘‘However, are we just better at identifying neurodiversity, are we more aware of what neurodiversity looks like?’’

Reid said in the past what we now define as neurodivergent may have been identified ‘‘in different ways, or not at all’’.

Community Wellbeing North Canterbury Trust manager Deirdre Ryan advised parents who were concerned about their children to contact their GP for advice in the first instance.

The trust worked collaboratively with local schools offering a range of services, including being a Mana Ake (years 1 to 8) and a Manu Ka Rere (13-24 years) provider.

Both programmes offer mental health support in schools.

Support was also available through Parent to Parent (parent2parent.org.nz), Autism New Zealand (autismnz.org.nz) and ADHD New Zealand (adhd.org.nz).

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

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115 days ago

BRAND NEW Dress

Elisabeth from Rangiora

Gorgeous dark gray dress with gold accents. Size XXL.

Price: $15

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