Eyrewell Forest, West Eyreton

Next Saturday is our online garage sale

Next Saturday is our online garage sale

So check out your home and take some photos of items that you want to sell!

522 days ago

Wool and knitting for Ukraine

Marianne from Rangiora

A very big Thank You to Faye who posted me some beautiful new wool. Very much appreciated. Here is a photo of a little cardi for a 0-3 month old baby just about to come off the needles to show what we are doing. We need to get these little items finished and in the post by the end of June for the … View moreA very big Thank You to Faye who posted me some beautiful new wool. Very much appreciated. Here is a photo of a little cardi for a 0-3 month old baby just about to come off the needles to show what we are doing. We need to get these little items finished and in the post by the end of June for the northern winter.

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528 days ago

Reduced speed preferred over barriers

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

From local democracy reporter David Hill:

A 60kph speed limit has been proposed on State Highway 1, between Pegasus and Waikuku, in preference to wire rope barriers.

The Waimakariri District Council has agreed to back a request from local residents for a speed reduction, as part of Waka … View more
From local democracy reporter David Hill:

A 60kph speed limit has been proposed on State Highway 1, between Pegasus and Waikuku, in preference to wire rope barriers.

The Waimakariri District Council has agreed to back a request from local residents for a speed reduction, as part of Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency’s Woodend safety improvements.

The request followed a meeting last week with Pegasus and Waikuku residents and Waka Kotahi director of regional relationships James Caygill.

Waka Kotahi had proposed installing a wire rope barrier, known as ‘‘a cheese grater’’, on the 1.5km stretch of road between Pegasus and Waikuku, which has an 80kph speed limit, as part of the proposed safety improvements.

‘‘The feedback we received at the meeting was that people are not in favour of wire rope barriers on that stretch of road,’’ Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon said.

‘‘The residents suggested a reduction of speed and asked if that would negate the need for wire rope barriers.’’

Residents said the wire rope barrier would cause inconvenience as it would prevent them from turning and restrict access to their properties.

Gordon was drafting a letter in support of the request, with input from his fellow councillors and Woodend-Sefton Community Board chairperson Shona Powell.

He said similar concerns had been raised by residents and business owners located between Woodend and Pine Acres, Kaiapoi, to the south.
‘‘Ultimately what will make a difference is a [Woodend] bypass.’’

Caygill said the meeting was a good chance to hear the specific concerns of concerned residents.

He said several issues were raised, including power pole positions, driveway access points, speed and the necessity of the wire rope barrier.

‘‘Their concerns are being fed back to the project team as we continue work on the design for SH1 Saltwater Creek to Cam River.’’

Robbie Brine said he had attended 11 road deaths on SH1 between Smith St, Kaiapoi, and Saltwater Creek, north of the Ashley River, in his capacity as a police officer.

‘‘I don’t like the cheese graters. They may save lives, but with the aesthetics and the inconvenience they cause, it’s just not worth it.’’

He said reducing the speed limit would add only ‘‘a few seconds to a car journey’’, while saving lives.

Deputy mayor Neville Atkinson said he was opposed to both options.
‘‘We’re not going to solve it with a band aid. We need to find a real solution.’’

Waimakariri District Council roading manager Joanne McBride said it would be difficult to enforce a 60kph speed limit as the 1.5km
stretch of road was through a rural area.

535 days ago

Rangiora after hours healthcare meeting called

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

From local democracy reporter David Hill:

North Canterbury residents may soon get some answers about the future of after hours healthcare in the region.

Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand has accepted an invitation from Waimakariri MP Matt Doocey to appear at a public meeting in Rangiora on … View more
From local democracy reporter David Hill:

North Canterbury residents may soon get some answers about the future of after hours healthcare in the region.

Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand has accepted an invitation from Waimakariri MP Matt Doocey to appear at a public meeting in Rangiora on Thursday, April 27.

Doocey called the meeting in response to community concerns at the lack of progress on promised public health services at the Rangiora Health Hub.

The former Canterbury District Health Board announced in December 2020 its intention for an after hours facility to be operational by late 2022.

‘‘That date has come and gone and we’re now hearing it could be three years away, so it is important Health NZ comes back and answers the community’s questions,’’ Doocey said.

He said he hoped the meeting would provide some clarity around what hours the facility will operate and what services would be provided when it eventually opened.

‘‘I will be keen to hear what healthcare services can be fast-tracked and what can be put in place in the interim.’’

Te Whatu Ora entered into an agreement with South Link Health Services Group in 2020 to develop a family health and urgent care centre
at the Rangiora Health Hub.

‘‘This agreement is subject to several conditions,’’ a Te Whatu Ora spokesperson said.

‘‘Once these conditions have been met, South Link Health Services Group will be granted a ground lease and must complete this development with all reasonable speed.’’

The spokesperson referred questions about the progress of the project to South Link Health Services Group.

In the meantime, after hours provision in Rangiora included Durham Health being open Saturdays 9am to 12pm, telehealth GP consultation services through providers such as PracticePlus, and the St John nurse phone triage service.

Residents can access the triage service by calling their GP phoneline after-hours.

The Pegasus 24 Hour Surgery in Madras St, Christchurch, was also available to North Canterbury residents.

The Oxford Community Health Centre also provided after hours services to its registered clients, with a triage nurse and virtual GP
consultations.

Doocey launched a petition in November with Rangiora residents Sandi and David McLean, which he planned to present to Te Whatu Ora at the meeting.

South Link Health Services Group was also expected to be represented at the meeting.

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523 days ago

Fire wood.

Warren from Swannanoa - Ohoka

HI I Have pine fire wood for sale 4.2 cub $360.

523 days ago

SAMSUNG VS APPLE

The Team from NZ Compare

The comparison you've been waiting for! Are you team Apple or team Samsung?!

Both companies have their own strengths and weaknesses when it comes to technology and it can get pretty heated. It's always best to check before you invest - so compare the pro's and con's of … View more
The comparison you've been waiting for! Are you team Apple or team Samsung?!

Both companies have their own strengths and weaknesses when it comes to technology and it can get pretty heated. It's always best to check before you invest - so compare the pro's and con's of Samsung and Apple now with this easy guide.

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523 days ago

DONATIONS WANTED

Arthur from Rangiora

THRIVE OP SHOP, 96 High St., Rangiora (GABLES ARCADE). needs your donations of quality women's top quality winter clothing; belts and handbags; novels; glassware,(wine and tumblers); jigsaws etc.
We are at the New World end of Gables Arcade. Thank you in advance. We are a branch of … View more
THRIVE OP SHOP, 96 High St., Rangiora (GABLES ARCADE). needs your donations of quality women's top quality winter clothing; belts and handbags; novels; glassware,(wine and tumblers); jigsaws etc.
We are at the New World end of Gables Arcade. Thank you in advance. We are a branch of Christchurch City Mission, helping those in need.

524 days ago

Would you speak up?

Telecommunications Dispute Resolution

Telecommunications are an integral part of our lives, so when things go wrong it can be frustrating. Do you prefer to keep tight lipped, or are you willing to speak up?

The Telecommunications Dispute Resolution service, or TDR for short, is here to help. It’s ok to complain and we encourage … View more
Telecommunications are an integral part of our lives, so when things go wrong it can be frustrating. Do you prefer to keep tight lipped, or are you willing to speak up?

The Telecommunications Dispute Resolution service, or TDR for short, is here to help. It’s ok to complain and we encourage you to speak up and raise issues early.

For phone and internet disputes, talk to your provider first and give them a chance to sort it. If it remains unresolved or if you need some extra help, you can talk to TDR – your free and independent complaint service.

To get in touch or find out more, visit www.tdr.org.nz or freephone 0508 98 98 98.
Find out more

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526 days ago

Got a small business? We've got a sale!

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Just for April we're offering a very special discount on our Premium Business Listings! Usually $399*, you can grab a Premium Listing for just $199* for the whole year.

Here's five great things a Premium Listing will get you:
- up to 40,000 neighbours living around your business to … View more
Just for April we're offering a very special discount on our Premium Business Listings! Usually $399*, you can grab a Premium Listing for just $199* for the whole year.

Here's five great things a Premium Listing will get you:
- up to 40,000 neighbours living around your business to connect
- message scheduling (set and forget!)
- improved SEO (improve your online footprint!)
- fortnightly tips and tricks from the Neighbourly team to ensure your Premium Listing works for you
- support from the Neighbourly team whenever you need it

*GST additional
Get Premium now

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526 days ago

"The Life Adventures of Milly Ward" film

Norma from Rangiora

Due to popular demand this will be shown again at the Rangiora Museum, 29 Good Street, Thursday 27th April, 7.30pm. Milly was born on the Chatham Islands and moved to the mainland, aged 12. All welcome; donations please from non members. Supper served.

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527 days ago

Asics sneaker US6 - Girl's/Women's

Esther from Rangiora

Black Asics Sneakers - girls/women

Size: US 6

In great condition - just grew out of them really fast.

Really good tread on the soles.

View more
Black Asics Sneakers - girls/women

Size: US 6

In great condition - just grew out of them really fast.

Really good tread on the soles.

Pick up from Rangiora

Price: $20

Price: $20

532 days ago

Do we need better animal welfare rules in Aotearoa?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

CDANZ estimates that around 250,000 dogs are chained up for their entire lives in Aotearoa. Animal welfare inspectors from the SPCA can do little for them and only in the most extreme cases can dogs be seized, and owners prosecuted, due to the resources involved. Do we need to have better welfare … View moreCDANZ estimates that around 250,000 dogs are chained up for their entire lives in Aotearoa. Animal welfare inspectors from the SPCA can do little for them and only in the most extreme cases can dogs be seized, and owners prosecuted, due to the resources involved. Do we need to have better welfare rules for dogs?

Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to be excluded from the We Say You Say column of your local paper.

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527 days ago

Figs for Sale! $1 each

Jim from Rangiora

Fresh figs available again! Please message me direct if you would like to buy some, my cell phone is 021301428.
$1 each, or $15 for 20 figs. Freshly picked to order.

Naturally grown, no sprays or fertilisers used.

Thanks :)
Amelia

Price: $1

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528 days ago

Bid to save historic suspension bridge

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Feedback is being sought on options to save an historic suspension bridge near Oxford.

The Waimakariri District Council is consulting on the repair of the Wolffs Road suspension bridge at West Eyreton, which has fallen into a state of disrepair and is … View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Feedback is being sought on options to save an historic suspension bridge near Oxford.

The Waimakariri District Council is consulting on the repair of the Wolffs Road suspension bridge at West Eyreton, which has fallen into a state of disrepair and is no longer safe for public use.

The bridge was built around 1948 for pedestrian access across the Eyre River. It has a category 2 rating with Heritage New Zealand.

The Cust and Districts Historical Records Society made a submission to the council’s 2021-31 long-term plan, which led to a site inspection and a bridge refurbishment report being prepared.

The council’s preferred option was to remove the timber superstructure, approach ramps and suspension cables, and clear vegetation.

This would leave the heritage fabric of the bridge, including the substructure and cable anchors to be refurbished, a council spokesperson said.

The cost of disestablishing the superstructure, was estimated in 2021, to cost $195,000, with ongoing maintenance costs of up to $2000 a year.

Any funding for the project would need to be sought as part of next year’s 2024-34 long-term plan or from external funding sources.

Feedback closes on Monday, April 17, at letstalk.waimakariri.govt.nz/

A report will be presented to the Oxford-Ohoka Community Board to consider making a submission to the council.

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529 days ago

Kaiapoi fire inspires community support

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

A Kaiapoi-based business is giving back to the community.

Sutton Tools’ Kaiapoi factory was gutted by a fire in January last year and plant manager Glenn Morgan says the company wanted to give back after the support his staff received following the … View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

A Kaiapoi-based business is giving back to the community.

Sutton Tools’ Kaiapoi factory was gutted by a fire in January last year and plant manager Glenn Morgan says the company wanted to give back after the support his staff received following the fire.

Sheffield Group, which owned Sutton Tools, donated $10,000 to the Community Wellbeing North Canterbury Trust, after the trust’s Kaiapoi Community Support office supported Sutton Tools families with food parcels and other support services.

‘‘We didn’t know much about them, so we paid them a visit and they showed us around,’’ Morgan said.

‘‘It was great going to see them and to see the help they are trying to do in the community.’’

Community Wellbeing is a collaboration involving the Waimakariri and Hurunui district councils, with Kaiapoi Community Support based in the Waimakariri District Council-owned Kaiapoi Community Centre.

Trust manager Deirdre Ryan said it was a privilege to assist Sutton Tools' employees in the aftermath of the factory fire.

‘‘This donation from the company was totally unexpected and I feel honoured to receive it.

"These much-needed funds will support other North Canterbury families and individuals in need.

‘‘We simply couldn't do what we do it without the generosity of community-minded businesses like Sutton Tools.’’

Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon said Community Wellbeing played a valuable role in the community.

‘‘It is a generous donation from Sutton Tools, and knowing Wellbeing, I know they will put it to good use.

‘‘Like all our social agencies, Wellbeing plays a critical role in the community and Kaiapoi Community Support does so much for the community with the food bank and in all the other work they do.’’

Morgan said Sutton Tools would look to provide ongoing support, such as donating products to be raffled.

‘‘We like what Community Wellbeing is doing and they are helping people to find jobs and we will be looking to hire more people.’’

Since the fire, Sutton Tools has continued to operate, on a reduced scale, from its Kaiapoi site, using the engineering building, which survived, and by converting a storeroom.

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529 days ago

Council backs reduced speed limit

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

From local democracy reporter David Hill:

The speed limit on Kaiapoi’s Smith St will be reduced to accommodate the growing Waimak Junction Business Park.

The Waimakariri District Council gave its backing at last week’s council meeting to a proposal to reduce the speed limit from 80kph to … View more
From local democracy reporter David Hill:

The speed limit on Kaiapoi’s Smith St will be reduced to accommodate the growing Waimak Junction Business Park.

The Waimakariri District Council gave its backing at last week’s council meeting to a proposal to reduce the speed limit from 80kph to 50kph on the small stretch of road between the southbound motorway onramp and the existing 50kph sign, 90 metres to the east.

Waimakariri District Council roading and transportation manager Joanne McBride said the speed limit change was needed to improve safety.

The Waimak Junction Business Park is expanding, with the planned opening of a Countdown supermarket, alongside Placemakers, Bunnings, Mitre 10, Briscoes and other retailers, expected to significantly increase traffic volumes.

The council will now write to Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency to request the speed limit change under the Setting of Speed Limits Rule 2022.

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