Buller District, Westport

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23 days ago

Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.

This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on… View more
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.

This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.

Do you think this ban is reasonable?

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Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
  • 75.4% Yes
    75.4% Complete
  • 23% No
    23% Complete
  • 1.6% Other - I'll share below
    1.6% Complete
2382 votes
B
23 days ago

Lawnmowing

Bob from Wakefield

We require some to mow some of our lawns for the next few weeks while I recuperate after surgery.

23 days ago

West Coast council accepts Franz Josef loan offer

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By local democracy reporter Lois Williams:

The West Coast Regional Council has voted to take up the government’s offer to co-fund a second round of flood protection at Franz Josef.

The decision follows a fractious meeting in the tourist town on Wednesday night, with local ratepayers … View more
By local democracy reporter Lois Williams:

The West Coast Regional Council has voted to take up the government’s offer to co-fund a second round of flood protection at Franz Josef.

The decision follows a fractious meeting in the tourist town on Wednesday night, with local ratepayers agonising over how to pay for the work, and insisting they authorise what the council builds and spends.

Scientists and engineers have warned the community is at high to critical risk from the wild Waiho (Waiau) River unless urgent work is done to top up and rebuild damaged stopbanks, as a stop gap measure.

At a brief extraordinary Council meeting in Greymouth on Friday, chairperson Peter Haddock moved the council accept the offer of funding, up to a value of $7.9 million.

The government’s original offer was for $10m, as a 60/40 split: a grant of $6m and a loan of $4m to Waiho ratepayers.

But that included the cost of strengthening the massive flood banks built to protect State Highway 6, and the council excluded that component after Franz Josef objected to funding a Crown asset.

The council vote to accept the funding was all but unanimous: rebel councillor Allan Birchfield was the sole dissenting voice, saying he had no confidence in the council to honestly and fairly administer the money, and the council was not trusted by the community.

“And I don’t have the confidence in you, Peter - so I’m voting against it.”

Haddock said the criticism was unfair.

He said he had been to five meetings with Franz Josef ratepayers to try to rebuild trust and apologise to them for the way they were treated by the council previously, when Birchfield was the chairperson.

“The previous council had no meetings with them for over five years, very poor financial paperwork … I’ve been through the minutes and I see you don’t appear in most of them, the previous money was lost back to the government and I’m afraid that lies with you Allan [Birchfield].”

Councillor Brett Cummings, who was a member of the Waiho ratepayers joint committee, reminded Birchfield that only two people at the Franz Josef meeting had opposed accepting the funding and loan.

“I feel quite confident, Allan, that the community group down there has quite a lot of control on how and where the money’s being spent - their money.”

Councillor Peter Ewen said he wanted to acknowledge the Franz Josef community, and the angst it had gone through over the decision.

“I agree with them over not taking the $10 million ... [but] this is ensuring the Insurance Council does not walk away from the situation. We are helping ourselves, and I’m sure the council with its best endeavours and professional river staff will adhere to the wishes of the community down there.”

If nature played its part, the Franz Josef community would now gain the time to come up with a final plan for its future, which was the purpose of the funding, Ewen said.

Birchfield asked engineer Scott Hoare why it was planning to tear down and rebuild the Milton stopbank on the sourh side, saying he had been there when it was built and it was well “found”.

Hoare said the bank would not be torn down, but was slumping in places and the rocks would be taken out and restacked.

Councillor Frank Dooley said he had every confidence in Haddock as council chairperson.

“I really appreciate the work you’ve done to bring this organisation to the position it’s now in ... the West Coast community can only benefit through your leadership.”

The regional council had until Monday to tell the government if it would accept the funding for Franz Josef and that would now happen, Haddock said after the meeting.

30 days ago

Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.

When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?

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Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
  • 81.9% Yes
    81.9% Complete
  • 15.4% No
    15.4% Complete
  • 2.8% Other - I'll share below
    2.8% Complete
2689 votes
25 days ago

Win this brand new home!

Heart Foundation Lottery

Experience the perfect blend of country charm and city convenience in Clarks Beach, Auckland!

For just $15 a ticket, you could win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home, valued at over $1 million.

This home offers three bedrooms, spacious kitchen and living areas, and a double garage.
View more
Experience the perfect blend of country charm and city convenience in Clarks Beach, Auckland!

For just $15 a ticket, you could win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home, valued at over $1 million.

This home offers three bedrooms, spacious kitchen and living areas, and a double garage.

Whether you decide to make it your dream home, a holiday retreat, a rental property or simply sell it, it’s still a life-changing prize.

Don’t wait—get your tickets today at heartlottery.org.nz.
Find out more

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25 days ago

Georgina's Rhubarb Crumble

Ernest Rutherford Retirement Village

Craving a dessert that makes the most of spring's fresh produce? Look no further than Georgina's signature Rhubarb Crumble.

This delicious treat has become a favourite at Ryman’s Bert Sutcliffe Village, where the sweet and tangy aroma often wafts through the air, tempting neighbours … View more
Craving a dessert that makes the most of spring's fresh produce? Look no further than Georgina's signature Rhubarb Crumble.

This delicious treat has become a favourite at Ryman’s Bert Sutcliffe Village, where the sweet and tangy aroma often wafts through the air, tempting neighbours in for a taste. It’s also a hit with Georgina's 13-year-old granddaughter, Brooklyn, who loves serving it warm with gooey custard or a scoop of melting vanilla ice cream.

Click read more for the recipe.

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34 days ago

Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.

What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?

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When should the tree go up? 🎄
  • 4.6% Second half of November
    4.6% Complete
  • 43.5% 1st December
    43.5% Complete
  • 17.6% A week before Christmas
    17.6% Complete
  • 33% Whenever you wish
    33% Complete
  • 1.2% Other - I'll share below
    1.2% Complete
2976 votes
30 days ago

Warnings about scams

The Team from New Zealand Police

This Fraud Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone to stay sharp and look out for the warning signs of scams to stop them before they start.

Here’s what to watch out for:
🔍 Unrealistic offers or promises of easy money that are too good to be true
🔍 Pressure tactics: Scammers may … View more
This Fraud Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone to stay sharp and look out for the warning signs of scams to stop them before they start.

Here’s what to watch out for:
🔍 Unrealistic offers or promises of easy money that are too good to be true
🔍 Pressure tactics: Scammers may rush or threaten you to act immediately.
🔍 Requests for personal info: Be cautious if you’re asked for bank details, passwords, or sensitive information.
🔍 Unusual payment methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
🔍 Unverified contacts: Emails, calls, or messages from unknown or suspicious sources.

How to protect yourself:
✅ Stop and think before sharing personal details or making payments.
✅ Don't click on any links until you know that it is safe.
✅ Verify the source: Contact the organisation directly using official channels.
✅ If something’s not right, it's OK to hang up, walk away, ignore it and move on.

If you wish to report a scam, contact Police on 105 or report it online via 105.police.govt.nz/use-105.

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31 days ago

Tactile texture

Resene

Welcome texture into your room by using leftover Resene Anaglypta wallpaper to accentuate furniture and décor items. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions. Find out more

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31 days ago

Does Your Organisation Need New Flooring?

Carpet Court

Is the flooring at your school, early childhood, community or sports centre old and threadbare? Or perhaps you have a new space where there’s no flooring at all. Your organisation could be eligible to receive $2,000 + gst from the RhinoKids Flooring Fund to go towards new flooring. Plus, one … View moreIs the flooring at your school, early childhood, community or sports centre old and threadbare? Or perhaps you have a new space where there’s no flooring at all. Your organisation could be eligible to receive $2,000 + gst from the RhinoKids Flooring Fund to go towards new flooring. Plus, one lucky organisation will win a $20,000 flooring makeover!

Carpet Court is continuing its’ mission to help improve Kiwi kids’ learning environments by rolling out its’ nationwide fund for the fifth year in a row. Apply today!
Find out more

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33 days ago

Is your drainage system earthquake damaged?

Enviroflow

Enviroflo are discovering widespread damage in ceramic drains across the Canterbury region - often there are no obvious signs.

Let our experienced team take care of it. We'll diagnose the damage, provide a report and work with the Natural Hazards Commision (formally EQC) on your behalf.
View more
Enviroflo are discovering widespread damage in ceramic drains across the Canterbury region - often there are no obvious signs.

Let our experienced team take care of it. We'll diagnose the damage, provide a report and work with the Natural Hazards Commision (formally EQC) on your behalf.

Book your free check today! Call 03 242 0828 or 020 4 DRAINS. Terms and conditions apply
Find out more

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33 days ago

Spring spruce up

Ernest Rutherford Retirement Village

Spring is the season of new beginnings and the perfect time to declutter and refresh your home. Imagine stepping into a space that feels open, organised, and filled with only what truly matters. Whether you’re looking to simplify your life, want to downsize, or just enjoy a more comfortable … View moreSpring is the season of new beginnings and the perfect time to declutter and refresh your home. Imagine stepping into a space that feels open, organised, and filled with only what truly matters. Whether you’re looking to simplify your life, want to downsize, or just enjoy a more comfortable living space, decluttering is a great way to start.

With these expert tips from decluttering and organising specialist Peter Walsh, you can take small steps toward a clutter-free home that you’ll love spending time in.

Click read more for more article.

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34 days ago

Ryman’s Walk in Wednesdays

The Team from Ryman Healthcare

Ryman villages across the country are open every Wednesday in November.

Experience the Ryman lifestyle and learn about our living options, tour our showhomes and discover the wonderful amenities on offer.

Click to find out more information.
Find out more

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40 days ago

Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.

This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access … View more
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.

This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)

Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.

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Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
  • 85.3% Yes
    85.3% Complete
  • 13.7% No
    13.7% Complete
  • 1% Other - I'll share below
    1% Complete
2429 votes
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