Eyrewell Forest, West Eyreton

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1022 days ago

MP pushes for mental health training in Rangiora as part of national strategy

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

From Local Democracy Reporter Adam Burns:
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Waimakariri MP Matt Doocey is imploring North Cantabrians to engage with a national suicide prevention initiative so people are better equipped to talk it out.

LifeKeepers is an internationally proven, community-led programme, funded by… View more
From Local Democracy Reporter Adam Burns:
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Waimakariri MP Matt Doocey is imploring North Cantabrians to engage with a national suicide prevention initiative so people are better equipped to talk it out.

LifeKeepers is an internationally proven, community-led programme, funded by the Ministry of Health, which melds an ‘‘evidence-based approach’’ with local knowledge, and Doocey believes the stigma of not reaching out needs to be discarded.

An all day LifeKeepers training course is scheduled to be held in Rangiora on February 1, however the country's shift into the red setting of the traffic light system means the event will go ahead with limited numbers.

Doocey serves as the National Party's mental health spokesperson and was approached by Canterbury healthcare consultancy Pegasus Health about the initiative, one of several national programmes established to tackle New Zealand's steep suicide numbers.

"Part of my work in parliament is to break down the barriers," he said.

Doocey is a member of a cross-party mental health group alongside Labour MP Louisa Wall, the Green Party's Chloe Swarbrick and ACT MP Brooke van Velden.

The group commissioned the Zero Suicide Aotearoa report, released in 2020, which argued for to "a comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach that involved central government agencies, local communities and whānau".

"What that means is suicide prevention for dairy farmers is going to be a lot different than what the approach is about suicide prevention for young people," Doocey said.

"What we need for people who are working on the ground is to equip themselves with the skills and then translate them into those local communities."

Pegasus Health suicide prevention coordinator Elle Cradwick said the training, which she described as one of the best initiatives in the country, would offer practical tools to have important conversations.

"The training is certainly designed for everyday people, weaving in everyday experiences," she said.

Doocey said he was determined to help break down "some of the stigma".

"My assumption is a lot of people may see training like this and think 'I'm not sure if I want to be involved in that'."

Another mental health initiative, Mates in Construction, which targeted mental health in the building industry, was scheduled to host an event earlier this week in Christchurch, but was postponed due to the change to red.

Doocey said the construction sector had the highest suicide rate of any industry in the country.

Canterbury police officer Don Munro said it was also not a widely discussed subject among agricultural-based districts, such as the Waimakariri.

"It's an issue with all age groups," he said.

"It's because we don't talk about it, or discuss it with the run-of-the-mill, staunch farmer because they don't want to be seen as being weak, or to be seen to have an issue.

"There is a stigma attached to traditional Kiwi-New Zealanders, you have to get in there and have those conversations and acknowledge it's OK to be not OK."

1023 days ago

Collector seeks rare bottles

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

Simon-Peter Svensson has been stuck under floorboards in his quests to collect old and rare bottles over the past two decades.

The Rangiora man says while the bottles primarily represent history they are also attractive.

Svensson's passion was sparked when he was about 10 years old by his … View more
Simon-Peter Svensson has been stuck under floorboards in his quests to collect old and rare bottles over the past two decades.

The Rangiora man says while the bottles primarily represent history they are also attractive.

Svensson's passion was sparked when he was about 10 years old by his brother-in-law who also collected bottles and the hobby soon spread through the family.

Now, with a private museum collection of more than 500 bottles on display, by appointment, in a 40 foot shipping container, Svensson is particularly eager to get his hands on more Temuka Brewery bottles from the early 1900s, made of stone. Continue reading here.

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1023 days ago

Algal Bloom in Rakahuri/Ashley River at the Rangiora-Loburn Bridge

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

From the Canterbury District Health Board:
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Community and Public Health has issued a health warning for the Rakahuri/Ashley River at the Rangiora-Loburn Bridge.

The warning follows identifying moderate to high cover of potentially toxic blue-green algae (benthic cyanobacteria) … View more
From the Canterbury District Health Board:
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Community and Public Health has issued a health warning for the Rakahuri/Ashley River at the Rangiora-Loburn Bridge.

The warning follows identifying moderate to high cover of potentially toxic blue-green algae (benthic cyanobacteria) in the Rakahuri/Ashley River at the Ranigora-Loburn Bridge.

There are also other access points along the Ashley River that may have cyanobacteria present and people are advised to check for the presence of cyanobacteria and avoid contact.

People and animals, particularly dogs, should avoid the area of the Rakahuri/Ashley River at the Rangiora-Loburn Bridge until the health warning has been lifted.

Canterbury medical officer of health Dr Ramon Pink said the algae looked like dark brown to black mats and could produce toxins harmful to people and animals.

“Exposure may cause skin rashes, nausea, stomach cramps, tingling and numbness around the mouth and fingertips," he said.

“If you experience any of these symptoms, visit your doctor immediately, also let your doctor know if you’ve had contact with dark brown/black algal mats or water in this area.”

Pink said people and animals should remain out of the waterways until the warnings had been lifted.

Reticulated town water supplies are currently safe but no-one should drink water from the river at any time

Pets that show signs of illness after coming into contact with algal mats should be taken to a vet immediately.

Environment Canterbury is monitoring the sites and the public will be advised of any changes in water quality.

1023 days ago

North Canterbury school's long-awaited $10m upgrade set for end of year

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

From Adam Burns Local Democracy Reporter
:
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Multimillion-dollar upgrades at a North Canterbury school may finally be set in motion after the prospect of a burgeoning school roll forced a rethink.

The $10 million redevelopment of Oxford Area School was confirmed four years … View more
From Adam Burns Local Democracy Reporter
:
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Multimillion-dollar upgrades at a North Canterbury school may finally be set in motion after the prospect of a burgeoning school roll forced a rethink.

The $10 million redevelopment of Oxford Area School was confirmed four years ago by Education Minister Chris Hipkins and includes the replacement of 11 prefabricated classrooms, a new library and administration block and upgrades to other facilities.

It is the only school in the small Waimakariri town of Oxford. Several other schools in the North Canterbury region also received Government-backed improvements over the past few years.

Principal Mike Hart said construction was earmarked for the end of 2022, although this was a “best-case scenario”.

The previous few years had been marked by rebuild scopes, development of an education brief, and the completion of a long-term master plan last year.

It was previously hoped the build would begin early this year, but now the end of 2022 was considered more realistic.

Hart said catering to the potential growth of pupils during the planning phase had possibly slowed the project.

“A positive projection of the school roll made us think about the size and perhaps having something a bit bigger than we originally thought,” he said.

The predicted school roll for 2022 is 545, but the master plan accommodates for 800.

Detailed design is now the focus for school leaders as headway is sought on the project.

“About three quarters of the year will be spent on [detailed design],” Hart said.

He was hopeful of the build getting under way before the end of the year.

“Whether it is some demolition taking place because we have to remove some buildings to create the space,” Hart said.

“Hopefully some construction will take place by the end of this year. There's lots of factors that determine that.”

Oxford Area School, which caters for year 1 to 13 pupils, opened in 1978, replacing the 100-year Oxford District High School.

Most of the school's existing infrastructure dated back to the Bay Rd site's previous incarnation.

The school's principal agreed that some buildings were now out-of-date.

“They're really old and cost our school a lot of money to update them and keep them as fresh as we can,” Hart said.

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1025 days ago

Raspberry plants for sale - $20, $15, $10 each.

Richard from Rangiora

Raspberry plants for sale - $20, $15, $10 each.

All have been transplanted from existing Clutha, Heritage and Lewis plants.

The parent plants have been producing top quality raspberries for several years.

NOTE: A $50 spend will get you $60 worth of plants.

Message me with your phone … View more
Raspberry plants for sale - $20, $15, $10 each.

All have been transplanted from existing Clutha, Heritage and Lewis plants.

The parent plants have been producing top quality raspberries for several years.

NOTE: A $50 spend will get you $60 worth of plants.

Message me with your phone number to work out a pickup time - Rangiora pickup.

Concerned about growing Raspberries?
If you are concerned re how to grow raspberries and contain the roots,
read the attached doc - or ask for one on pickup.

1024 days ago

Supporting Children who are anxious using art.

Jane from Rangiora

Is your child starting to get a bit nervous about returning to school Are they worried about friendships, peer pressure and classwork? Did you notice that last year they had low self-esteem or showed signs of anxiety? If so we are here to help... Our Mindfulness art classes are a safe place for … View moreIs your child starting to get a bit nervous about returning to school Are they worried about friendships, peer pressure and classwork? Did you notice that last year they had low self-esteem or showed signs of anxiety? If so we are here to help... Our Mindfulness art classes are a safe place for your child to work through what is happening for them using art processes. Having this creative outlet helps them notice what they are feeling, understand why and then find ways to deal with it.
Book your child in for tomorrows session, and if they like it they can attend our weekly sessions.
$15 per session or $100 for all 10 classes, a saving of $50

message me on here, email me at info@sleepharmony.co.nz or book now at www.sleepharmony.co.nz...

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1025 days ago

COVID Red Update

The Sterling, Kaiapoi

Following the Government’s announcement yesterday, we are now in the RED category of the Traffic Light COVID-19 Protection Framework due to the community spread of Omicron.

You can read our full COVID-19 update by visiting the blog page on our website.

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1032 days ago

KN95 Protective Masks

Dianne from Rangiora

These masks are recommended by all the experts. I purchased two from our local pharmacy on Friday. Made in China.The warning on the back reads;- 1. The mask does not eliminate the risk of contracting any disease or infection. 2. Improper use may lead to illness or even death. 3. Some materials in … View moreThese masks are recommended by all the experts. I purchased two from our local pharmacy on Friday. Made in China.The warning on the back reads;- 1. The mask does not eliminate the risk of contracting any disease or infection. 2. Improper use may lead to illness or even death. 3. Some materials in direct contact with skin may cause allergic reactions or even anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals. 4. for adults only. Do not wash. Whaaaat?

1027 days ago

Exclusive Neighbourly offering!

Climate Insights

Hi Neighbours,

Download your Property Climate Risk Report today and receive a 20% discount! Simply insert this code SUMMER22 at checkout and find out how climate resilient your property is today.

The peak property buying and selling season is here and after the record-breaking warmth of … View more
Hi Neighbours,

Download your Property Climate Risk Report today and receive a 20% discount! Simply insert this code SUMMER22 at checkout and find out how climate resilient your property is today.

The peak property buying and selling season is here and after the record-breaking warmth of 2021, it is time to consider how our climate could impact your home.

Let's plan together to keep your home cooler, drier and more liveable.
Find out more

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1033 days ago

Raspberry plants for sale - $15, $10 each.

Richard from Rangiora

Raspberry plants for sale - $15, $10 each.

All have been transplanted from existing Clutha, Heritage and Lewis plants.

The parent plants have been producing top quality raspberries for several years.

NOTE: A $50 spend will get you $55 worth of raspberries.

I also have some tomato … View more
Raspberry plants for sale - $15, $10 each.

All have been transplanted from existing Clutha, Heritage and Lewis plants.

The parent plants have been producing top quality raspberries for several years.

NOTE: A $50 spend will get you $55 worth of raspberries.

I also have some tomato plants going cheap.

Message me with your phone number to work out a pickup time - Rangiora pickup.

Concerned about growing Raspberries?
If you are concerned re how to grow raspberries and contain the roots,
read the attached doc - or ask for one on pickup.

1028 days ago

Do you have a great eggplant recipe?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Dear neighbours,

Every month, NZ Gardener runs a series of tested reader recipes using a seasonal crop. We are now on the hunt for eggplant recipes, so send your best ones to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz before January 30, 2022.

Every published recipe wins a copy of our special edition Homegrown … View more
Dear neighbours,

Every month, NZ Gardener runs a series of tested reader recipes using a seasonal crop. We are now on the hunt for eggplant recipes, so send your best ones to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz before January 30, 2022.

Every published recipe wins a copy of our special edition Homegrown Recipes.

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1032 days ago

Sign up for Quick Charge - our new EV newsletter

The Team Reporter from Stuff

Electrification of the motoring industry is not only inevitable, it is happening at a far faster rate than most people were probably expecting.

Our new weekly newsletter Quick Charge makes it easy to be informed and entertained, bringing you all of the biggest EV news, as well as regular updates… View more
Electrification of the motoring industry is not only inevitable, it is happening at a far faster rate than most people were probably expecting.

Our new weekly newsletter Quick Charge makes it easy to be informed and entertained, bringing you all of the biggest EV news, as well as regular updates on our various long-term tests and other bits and pieces that have caught our eye.

Sign up (it's free!) here.

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1028 days ago

Sunday magazine launches (free) weekly newsletter

The Team Reporter from Stuff

Wake up on Sunday morning to a treat in your inbox from the team at Sunday magazine.

As well as the weekly cover story, Sunday's free newsletter delivers the latest on food (including delicious recipes from our resident chef Sam Mannering), fashion, design, beauty and well-being direct to … View more
Wake up on Sunday morning to a treat in your inbox from the team at Sunday magazine.

As well as the weekly cover story, Sunday's free newsletter delivers the latest on food (including delicious recipes from our resident chef Sam Mannering), fashion, design, beauty and well-being direct to your inbox.

Sign up here and we'll see you on Sunday!

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1029 days ago

Bagged Pinecones

Mandy from Swannanoa - Ohoka

Large sacks of dry pinecones, ready to burn now, shed stored.
$4 per large sack of pinecones.
message or call Nida 0211603810

1029 days ago

Your daily dose of good news

The Team Reporter from Stuff

The 98-year-old painter who saved a village and a cat who hitched a ride to a charity shop in an old chair feature in today's Antidote - your much-needed dose of positivity to remind you that there's inspiration, kindness and quirkiness even in these unusual times. … View moreThe 98-year-old painter who saved a village and a cat who hitched a ride to a charity shop in an old chair feature in today's Antidote - your much-needed dose of positivity to remind you that there's inspiration, kindness and quirkiness even in these unusual times. Sign up here to get The Antidote delivered to your inbox (it's free!)

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