Taking care of people during Cyclone Gabrielle
Civil Defence is all about looking after the welfare of our people. If you are in need of immediate help, please call us on 09-430-4200 for the latest information and advice.
If the storm makes it unsafe to stay in your home, there will be two types of places you can go.
1️⃣ Community led welfare centres
These can be established in local facilities including Marae and Halls. These are setup quickly by local communities as required and supported by Civil Defence.
There are two community-led welfare centres already operating for the homeless community of Whangarei: Terenga Paraoa Marae on Porowini Avenue (Central Whangarei) and 155 Whare Āwhina (Open Arms), at 155 Kamo Road.
2️⃣ Civil Defence Emergency Evacuation Centres
These are fully operated by Civil Defence, intended to shelter large numbers of people if necessary. We have prepared, but not opened, an evacuation centre at McKay Stadium in Kensington. It can be activated quickly if necessary.
We are extremely grateful for the outpouring of support we can already see in the community. If you're safe and dry at home please check in on your neighbours too. Make sure you're prepared for a water outage or a power cut, have a flood plan, and think of indoor activities for kids.
🦺 Kia kaha community - come together and stand strong.
Photo: Our Emergency Operations Centre in the Council Chambers at Forum North (file photo from earlier this year)
Christmas lights are up again
Christmas lights are up again, 20 Avon street,Tikipunga.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
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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76.4% Yes
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22.3% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.