Did you know that the council can plant trees in people's berms?
I recently had an interesting talk with the council and thought I'd share what I learned here.
In front of my house there is a grass berm which currently does not have any plants on it - aside from grass. I wanted to plant a tree there, so I called up the council asking if I'd need to apply for some sort of a planting permission.
And you know what?
Turns out, the council can plant a tree there for me! They said, basically, that each year they plant a number of trees around the city - some to replace old and sick trees, others to create "new" spots for trees. And so, when I called them up asking if I'd be allowed to plant a tree in my berm, they simply said that they'll note down my address, have a look at my berm on their next round of maintenance checks and if they think the berm is wide enough for a tree to go there, they'd simply include my berm in their next tree planting programme!
And I was, like, whoa. This is so cool :)
Thank you, Invercargill.
Spring gardening tips
Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcare’s Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. You’ll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and let’s dig in.
Click read more for more information.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
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)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84% Yes
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14.7% No
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1.3% 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.