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From local democracy reporter David Hill:
North Canterbury has returned to ‘‘normal growth’’ after a two-year building boom, say local real estate agents.
Real estate agents said there was a noticeable easing off in property sales in the middle of last year, after two years of … View moreFrom local democracy reporter David Hill:
North Canterbury has returned to ‘‘normal growth’’ after a two-year building boom, say local real estate agents.
Real estate agents said there was a noticeable easing off in property sales in the middle of last year, after two years of unprecedented growth.
This was reflected in the number of consents issued for new houses in Waimakariri falling back in December, which was the quietest month in years.
Consent numbers were also down in Kaikōura, but Hurunui was bucking the trend.
Hurunui District Council building and property manager Kerry Walsh said a record 197 consents for new houses were issued in 2022, up from 170 in 2021.
‘‘The major growth areas have been in Amberley and Hanmer Springs, along with the rural regions surrounding those areas.
‘‘We are expecting that the number of houses in both areas will remain steady over 2023.’’
The Waimakariri District Council granted 828 consents for new houses last year, compared to 928 in 2021 and less than 600 in 2020.
The biggest growth has been in the Townsend Fields (Rangiora), Silverstream (Kaiapoi) and Ravenswood (Woodend) sub-divisions and at Pegasus.
Harcourts sales consultant Christine Tallott said sales were down at Townsend Fields, but interest remained strong.
‘‘Buyers are a little bit nervous with the increase in costs to build and the delays.
‘‘But Rangiora has become a very sought after place to live.’’
Inquiries were strong for Townsend Fields stage four, which was yet to go on sale.
Ray White Rangiora manager Stuart Morris said the cost of living, rising interest rates, supply chain issues, economic uncertainty and a lack of available land were all having an impact.
He said there was less land available in Woodend and Kaiapoi, while Amberley’s new developments were waiting for titles to be issued.
‘‘But we have to remember we don’t normally see that level of building we have had in the last few years, so I think we are moving back to a more normal rate of growth.’’
Morris said first home buyers were starting to return, after a noticeable drop last year.
Bayleys Rangiora and Hanmer Springs manager Ross Ditmer said while residential sales had eased back, lifestyle block sales remained strong.
‘‘We are coming back to normal after the boom. If you go back two or three years ago, our sales in December were pretty comparable.’’
But he said the looming general election could create more uncertainty and lead to vendors and buyers being more hesitant.
Waimakariri District Council planning, regulation and environment general manager Tracy Tierney said consent applications in December were considerably lower than in previous years and January was following a similar pattern.
More than 560 amendments were made to approved building consents in 2022, ‘‘up three-fold compared to previous years’’.
‘‘This was mainly as a result of the need for product substitution during the build process,’’ she said.
‘‘Industry commentators are anticipating a slowdown in building activity this year from the highs of 2021 and 2022.’’
Mayor Dan Gordon said Waimakariri’s continued growth presented its challenges.
‘‘We are still one of the fastest growing areas in the country, so managing growth is still a priority and making sure we have the infrastructure in place.
‘‘We are working with our Greater Christchurch partners for growth opportunities and building the case for investment from central government.’’
Walsh said there were some major commercial developments consented in 2022 in the Hurunui.
These included the Amberley Country Estate retirement village, some major works at Rodin cars in Waiau and school building projects.
The Kaikōura District Council received 86 resource consent applications, compared to 84 in 2021.
It issued 134 building consents, including 29 for new houses, compared to 154 in 2021.
From local democracy reporter David Hill:
A Waimakariri youth employment advocate is pleased to see more opportunities for young people.
Former Waimakariri Youth Council co-chairperson Ellie Tizzard is ‘‘excited’’ to hear the Waimakariri District Council has joined the Mayor’s … View moreFrom local democracy reporter David Hill:
A Waimakariri youth employment advocate is pleased to see more opportunities for young people.
Former Waimakariri Youth Council co-chairperson Ellie Tizzard is ‘‘excited’’ to hear the Waimakariri District Council has joined the Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs (MTFJ) programme.
‘‘It is very exciting. I think it will be a good opportunity for local youth and it has worked well in the Hurunui.
‘‘It will be a nice addition to the district.’’
Tizzard has been working with Waimakariri MP Matt Doocey on a youth employment project since 2020 as a Covid-19 initiative.
The idea came out of the Waimakariri Youth Development Strategy, which the youth council worked on in 2018.
The following year Tizzard completed a youth employment survey while serving as Mr Doocey’s Youth MP.
She was recently invited to join the Youth Futures North Canterbury initiative, a partnership between local education providers, the Ministries of Education and Social Development, and the Waimakariri District Council.
‘‘There are so many people who have identified an issue, so it just needs to be narrowed down going forward as a long term sustainable thing.’’
Tizzard and Doocey launched an initiative on Labour Day last year to promote youth employment over the summer holidays.
A website was launched which linked to resources and tips for both employers and young jobseekers: linktr.ee/youthemploymentwaimakariri.
‘‘I’ve had quite a few businesses say they have seen the promotion and seen the information provided alongside it,’’ she said.
‘‘In a way it has made them a bit more confident to take that next step.’’
The pair now planned to roll out a continuous campaign to help connect employers and young people.
They have connected with Enterprise North Canterbury and Tizzard was keen to work alongside the new Waimakakriri MTFJ co-ordinator when appointed.
While figures for the December 2022 quarter were not available yet, the national unemployment rate in the September quarter was 3.3%.
Waimakariri’s unemployment rate in September last year was just 2.4%
The Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment’s Labour Market Force fact sheet, produced in December, found the ‘‘underutilisation rate’’ across New Zealand was 9% for the September quarter.
The underutilisation rate combined unemployment with under-employment - those in part time work, but seeking full time employment.
Tizzard said a high underutilisation rate at a time when employers were struggling to find staff ‘‘highlights a disconnect between jobseekers and employers’’.
‘‘These are pretty surprising statistics in this kind of environment with employers struggling to find people.’’
By local democracy reporter David Hill:
Disc golf could be coming to Kaiapoi.
Advocates of the sport say they could have a nine-hole course set up in the Kaiapoi Domain within months, if they get the go ahead.
Brothers Glen, Royce and Blake Whelan, who were born and bred in Ohoka, have … View moreBy local democracy reporter David Hill:
Disc golf could be coming to Kaiapoi.
Advocates of the sport say they could have a nine-hole course set up in the Kaiapoi Domain within months, if they get the go ahead.
Brothers Glen, Royce and Blake Whelan, who were born and bred in Ohoka, have been playing disc golf for several years, and were keen to have a local course.
Ryan Moleta, of Ashley, fell in love with the game after playing it at Twizel as a youngster.
The players have been travelling into Christchurch each week to play disc golf at Queenspark Reserve, and other courses around the city.
The idea for a disc golf course in the Kaiapoi Domain came during lockdown when Blake Whelan was out getting some exercise.
‘‘I went past the domain and thought it would be fun to have a disc golf course there,’’ he said.
Glen Whelan said the course would cater to everyone.
‘‘You can play it as casual as you like, whereas we tend to have a bit of rivalry.’’
‘‘We are just excited at the prospect of bringing disc golf to Kaiapoi,’’ Royce Whelan said.
‘‘Because it is such a popular sport worldwide and during Covid people were watching it on YouTube.’’
The Kaiapoi-Tuahiwi Community Board will consider a report at its February or March meeting, after the council completed a community survey earlier this month.
The survey attracted 143 respondents, with 90% supporting the establishment of a disc golf course in the Kaiapoi Domain.
Of the remaining 10%, the main objections included concerns for the trees in the domain and a preference for a site in the former red zone.
The disc golf players were due to meet with council greenspace staff this week to map out a proposed course which avoided heritage trees.
Moleta said having disc golf would make the domain safer for other users.
‘‘Safety is a big part of it.
‘‘We find that where there is disc golf it activates green spaces, littering and graffiti go down and people feel safer because there are people there all the time.’’
Disc golf players had a code of etiquette which included looking out for and giving way to other park users.
Any type of frisbee could be used, with the semi-professional players using ‘‘drivers’’, ‘‘putters’’ and ‘‘mid-range’’ discs (wedges), just like golfers, Moleta said.
‘‘You can get high speed discs, low flying discs, pretty ones which look cool and glow in the dark discs to play at night.’’
Should the nine-hole course prove popular, the players were keen to explore the idea of developing an 18-hole international course on former red zone land.
There was not expected to be any cost to the council, with advocates set to fundraise to pay for nine baskets, 18 sleeves and nine tee pads at a cost of around $9000.
Moleta and Blake Whelan were landscapers and planned to do most of the layout work themselves to reduce costs.
(Plant now so your berries are well established by spring)
This sale is for raspberry and thornless blackberry plants, $15 and $20 each. For sales of $60+ I’ll give you a good deal.
All raspberries have been transplanted from existing Clutha, Heritage and Lewis varieties. They produce … View more(Plant now so your berries are well established by spring)
This sale is for raspberry and thornless blackberry plants, $15 and $20 each. For sales of $60+ I’ll give you a good deal.
All raspberries have been transplanted from existing Clutha, Heritage and Lewis varieties. They produce awesome raspberries.
The thornless blackberries are Black Satin.
Pick up in Rangiora. However, for an $80+ purchase, I'm happy to deliver them myself within 30min of Rangiora for an extra $10 - depending on location.
Will exchange mobile numbers before pickup.
Concerned about root spread when growing raspberries and blackberries?
If you are concerned re how to grow raspberries and keep them contained - fear not! It's not difficult to achieve. I’m happy to explain how to keep them under control and give you a 1-page ‘How To’ guide.
3 Blum Orga - Line Adjustable Plate Holders in excellent condition.
Makes organizing stacks of plates quick and easy. Easily adjusts to fit most common dinner plates and bowls. Special rubber feet ensure that no matter where you put the Plate Holder it will stay in place.
Great for … View more3 Blum Orga - Line Adjustable Plate Holders in excellent condition.
Makes organizing stacks of plates quick and easy. Easily adjusts to fit most common dinner plates and bowls. Special rubber feet ensure that no matter where you put the Plate Holder it will stay in place.
Great for caravans, motorhomes, your home.
3 for $100 or $35 each
Is your fridge looking dated and dull? Turn an eyesore into a conversation starter with this clever chalkboard transformation using Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen.
Follow out easy instructions.
Many schools allow female students to wear earrings but male students aren't allowed to have an ear stud. Is it time to get rid of gender-based rules in regards to jewellery?
Share your thoughts below - write NFP if you don't wish your comments to be shared in the community … View moreMany schools allow female students to wear earrings but male students aren't allowed to have an ear stud. Is it time to get rid of gender-based rules in regards to jewellery?
Share your thoughts below - write NFP if you don't wish your comments to be shared in the community paper's We Say You Say column.
Pure Texel ewe lambs suitable for breeding replacements. 12 available. Purchase as part or full lot. $170 each.
Get back-to-school sorted in one shop at The Warehouse. Start smart and inspired with statement stationery, gear up with the best in tech and set them up for the future with options made with recycled materials. With a wide range of smart school essentials at even smarter prices, we’ve got … View moreGet back-to-school sorted in one shop at The Warehouse. Start smart and inspired with statement stationery, gear up with the best in tech and set them up for the future with options made with recycled materials. With a wide range of smart school essentials at even smarter prices, we’ve got everything you need to set up for an epic comeback.
Want to give back when you go back? Donate $1 to KidsCan in store to make sure more Kiwi kids get the essentials they need in 2023.
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Help is at hand for Waimakariri youth seeking employment.
The Waimakariri District Council has joined the Mayors’ Taskforce for Jobs, to support local youth into employment.
The programme has been successful in the Hurunui and Kaikōura districts … View moreBy David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Help is at hand for Waimakariri youth seeking employment.
The Waimakariri District Council has joined the Mayors’ Taskforce for Jobs, to support local youth into employment.
The programme has been successful in the Hurunui and Kaikōura districts and a recent change to the population threshold meant Waimakariri was now eligible for funding.
‘‘As Mayor this is an initiative that I will be actively involved in supporting,’’ Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon said.
‘‘I am looking forward to seeing this project commence and I am 100 percent behind it.’’
The programme will be administered by the council’s community team.
‘‘Given the team’s well-established local networks and connections, this is an ideal fit for the role.’’
The initiative was funded by the Ministry of Social Development on an initial six-month pilot.
The council was in the process of appointing an employment co-ordinator to work alongside young people and local employers.
The six-month pilot aimed to get 12 young people into the local workforce, offering a range of support and guidance to help them on their journey.
‘‘The aim of the role is to increase collaboration and add value across the work readiness sector,’’ Gordon said.
The programme aimed to address barriers and misconceptions which limited the ability for local young people to access sustainable employment, he said.
■ Public interest journalism is funded by New Zealand on Air.
By booking your vehicle in for a Warrant of Fitness, Service or repair with Auto Super Shoppe Rangiora, you could WIN 1 of 28 great prizes this February. From paddleboards to tablets, air fryers, Barbeques, moon chairs, coffee makers, headphones and MORE!
Call Auto Super Shoppe Rangiora for a … View moreBy booking your vehicle in for a Warrant of Fitness, Service or repair with Auto Super Shoppe Rangiora, you could WIN 1 of 28 great prizes this February. From paddleboards to tablets, air fryers, Barbeques, moon chairs, coffee makers, headphones and MORE!
Call Auto Super Shoppe Rangiora for a booking today and you could go in the draw for these exciting giveaways!
0800 AUTO HELP | 3135329
Live independently while your loved one is cared for in the same Ryman village.
A full life for Helen is one that is surrounded by family. When she first moved to the village, Helen’s husband John was being cared for elsewhere. Now that he is living at the same village, it brings Helen and … View moreLive independently while your loved one is cared for in the same Ryman village.
A full life for Helen is one that is surrounded by family. When she first moved to the village, Helen’s husband John was being cared for elsewhere. Now that he is living at the same village, it brings Helen and her family so much happiness and reassurance.
“All the family cried when he moved in. They were so happy because it was such a beautiful thing to have him close by.”
Get New Zealand’s cutest pets delivered to your inbox with Furry Friday.
Each Friday morning, editor Nick Barnett serves up your finest photos of your domestic friends. You’ll also receive exclusive content with pet-related stories and photos, as well as updates on the life of Riley, … View moreGet New Zealand’s cutest pets delivered to your inbox with Furry Friday.
Each Friday morning, editor Nick Barnett serves up your finest photos of your domestic friends. You’ll also receive exclusive content with pet-related stories and photos, as well as updates on the life of Riley, Nick’s own furry friend.
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