Walking the talk in local government
Congratulations to our re-elected mayor Sheryl Mai for choosing a fully electric vehicle as her next mayoral car, as reported here in today's Northern Advocate.
It is a ratepayer-funded car, so some of us will probably object to the higher purchase cost of an electric vehicle at our expense (although the spending limit was not exceeded), however, the savings on running cost and the avoided emissions (which we are not yet costing properly in NZ) make this the absolutely correct decision.
Getting us underway on a just and fair transition to a sustainable, circular, low-emissions economy means taking a long-term view and investing in the right kinds of technology, not doing things on the cheap and playing the silly old keep-the-cost-down-in-the-short-term game. This is what walking the talk looks like, and I'm glad to see that some of our council members are setting a good example for all of us.
What's your favourite recipe for gooseberry?
Love gooseberries? Share your favourite way to enjoy them. We're looking for our readers' favourite family recipes for this delicious crop. Send yours to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the magazine, you will receive a free copy of our December 2024 issue.
Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?
Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.
Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.
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69.8% Yes
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28.7% No
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1.5% Other - I'll share below
Poll: How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?
While it is a fun occasion, fireworks on Guy Fawkes Night has caused much conflict over the years, upsetting our pets and disrupting the sleep of neighbours.
How should we celebrate Guy Fawkes Night? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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29% With a city-wide public fireworks display
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20.3% Small fireworks displays in each community
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7.5% Keep it as is
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32.6% We shouldn't celebrate it!
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10% Anything but fireworks
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0.5% Other - I'll share below