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2341 days ago

A message for all neighbours and users of Sparks Park

Steve from Carterton District

At the Carterton council meeting on 18/09/2019, a submission to consider substantial changes to Sparks Park was approved.

This submission has the backing of the Sparks park trustees and is being done in order for a sub division to be built on adjoining land.

Ultimately the decision will be made by the minister of Conservation and there will be a brief opportunity for the community to make submissions.

Minutes of the meeting have not yet been updated but you can find out more about the submission in the meeting’s agenda here docs.cdc.govt.nz...

As a daily user and as a nearby resident of Sparks Park I do not want the proposed changes to proceed and I will be making a submission to council accordingly.

These changes involve a land swap deal with the developer which ultimately will make Sparks park a bigger park with additional amenities. While that sounds a great deal, I am not convinced bigger is going to make it any better. The old proverb 'beware of strangers bearing gifts' springs to mind.

The subdivision, which will only go ahead if this submission is successful, will fundamentally change the nature of the surrounding area. The park will no longer look out over paddocks filled with grazing stock but instead over a high density urban development. The area around Sparks park is presently a quiet and sleepy corner of Carterton, with bigger sections, trees and animals where the urban environment merges quietly into the traditional New Zealand rural landscape. In my opinion, a high density development in this area is not going to improve anything for Sparks Park users or local residents.

There are probably a multitude of other reasons people can think of for why this is not a good idea. Increased traffic levels, building on a potential flood zone are possible examples.

Something you need to be aware of is that at the council meeting, it was said the proposed sub division, a plan for which has not yet been submitted to council, may not require public consultation.

So, if like me you do not want to see a subdivision like this going ahead in this area, then you need to start the fight now and oppose the Sparks park submission. You may not get another opportunity.

You can make your own submission to council in writing and here are some guidelines to help you do this

mstn.govt.nz...

E & OE
Steve Hart

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As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙

One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.

So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?

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Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
  • 59.2% Yes, supporting people is important!
    59.2% Complete
  • 25.6% No, individuals should take responsibility
    25.6% Complete
  • 15.2% ... It is complicated
    15.2% Complete
774 votes
4 days ago

A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!

If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?

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3 days ago

SHOP LOCAL THIS WEEKEND - FARMERS MARKET SOLWAY SHOWGROUNDS JUDDS ROAD MASTERTON

Lynne from Masterton District

Come along to our Farmers Market & Crafts held EVERY Saturday Rain or Shine
BRING YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS ALONG FOR MORNING TEA AND COFFEE, AND HAVE A BROWSE AROUND OUR WONDERFUL MARKET

HOT OFF THE PRESS:

OUT AND ABOUT CATERING – Yammy will be at the market with her yummy chutneys, chilly range, Sauerkrauts, Relish, Pickles and Marmalades

DANIEL’S SPUDS are back at the market this week. Agria potatoes freshly dug this week.

WHAREMUKU ORCHARD is back this week also.

FRESH LOCAL VEGES also for sale

THE CLAREVILLE BAKERY is back this week with all our customer favourites.

And of course, there is always lots on offer: Hot Food, fresh Coffee, Fresh Vege stall, Yummy Honey, fresh bread to name just a few.

We have a fabulous array of creative gifts on display and available for purchase.
wooden toys, embroidered tea towels, olive oil, Crocheted toys, woollen items to mention just a few

We even have live music to get your toes tapping and we are always ready for a friendly chat. For a great day out or an early morning visit we have something for everyone.


We have a new Facebook page:
Wairarapa Farmers Market 2025 - have a look and view our newsletter for this week, or alternatively sign up to receive the newsletter into your inbox.
We also have a Eftpos terminal where you can access cash for your Farmers Market purchases. Come and have a look, I’m sure you will be pleasantly surprised.
Look forward to seeing you.

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