Don't be stupid!
Albert Einstein is credited with having said that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. I don't agree with his use of the word insanity, but I do think that stupid would fit the description. And, anyone who thinks that using the same electoral system and the same people for Tauranga's next election will produce different results is displaying that kind of stupidity.
For the last decade or so Tauranga has used a mixed system consisting of 6 ward councillors and 5 at large councillors. In November the widely experienced members of the Government appointed Observer Team expressed the opinion that the mixed system had contributed to some of the problems that were holding the City back.
In a few weeks' time the council will publish its initial proposal for representation and it is likely to include the option of having all councillors elected at large; that is, from across the whole City, and for community boards to be established. Having boards will ensure that locals can have a say about what happens in their community.
If the people of Tauranga want different - and better - results than they have been getting, they should get behind these two proposals.
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.
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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84.6% Yes
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13.9% No
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1.5% Other - I'll share below
Become an SPCA Foster Hero!
Kitten season has arrived, and over the next six months, over 8,000 cats and kittens will come into SPCA’s care. Please help us give these babies the best start in life and sign up to be a foster parent today! It's not just cats and kittens - we are also urgently seeking foster homes for dogs and small animals.
Fostering saves lives and helps these tiny babies grow into healthy, well-adjusted adults, ready for adoption. We cover all training and costs. All you need is time and love to spare!
Sign up today and save a life!
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