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Posts by Northern Outlook
1901 days ago

ECan proposed $41m rail and tourism hub in Christchurch, but Govt wasn't keen

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

A draft business case prepared for Environment Canterbury (ECan), which laid out a Rangiora to Rolleston passenger train service on existing train tracks, with potential to expand to Timaru in the future.

The summary determined establishing a passenger rail service would cost $41m, including $10m for a new central Christchurch station and tourist hub. Annual operating costs were projected to be about $5m.

But ECan chairwoman Jenny Hughey​ said Government officials advised it would be difficult to get Provincial Growth Fund money for the proposal, despite the summary outlining how it fulfilled eight of the 10 PGF objectives.

Read more here.

More messages from your neighbours
21 days ago

Poll: As a customer, what do you think about automation?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Press investigates the growing reliance on your unpaid labour.

Automation (or the “unpaid shift”) is often described as efficient ... but it tends to benefit employers more than consumers.

We want to know: What do you think about automation?
Are you for, or against?

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As a customer, what do you think about automation?
  • 9.3% For. Self-service is less frustrating and convenient.
    9.3% Complete
  • 43.6% I want to be able to choose.
    43.6% Complete
  • 47.1% Against. I want to deal with people.
    47.1% Complete
2456 votes
25 days ago

Poll: Would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? 🌿🐦

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Canterbury, you have a hidden treasure right on your doorstep ... though it does come with a 1.5-hour walk up the stunning Rakaia Gorge Walkway.

Along the trail you’ll find The Fantail Shop showcasing small artworks by local artisans. Even better, every purchase supports the Fantail Trust, helping protect and restore biodiversity on the north bank of the gorge.

So we’re curious: would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? (And for local biodiversity, of course 🌿)

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Would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? 🌿🐦
  • 32.2% Yes!
    32.2% Complete
  • 67.8% No thank you.
    67.8% Complete
177 votes
C
3 days ago

Musicians Wanted

Clare from Rangiora

‘Rangiora Bells’ is seeking musicians to join the handbell choir. We are a friendly group of handbell ringers who enjoy making music and entertaining at community groups.
If you would like to come and have a go at ringing handbells, please come along to one of our practice sessions. No commitment necessary if you decide that this is not for you.

An ability to read basic music notation preferred.
Practice days – Thursdays 1pm – 2.30pm
(beginning 19th February 2026)
In the lounge at Trinity Methodist Church
176 King Street
Rangiora
Clare Dolheguy
Phone 027 583 7504
claredoll6@gmail.com

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