School evacuated and flooding causes road closures throughout Banks Peninsula
Hi neighbours,
Severe flooding is now affecting Akaroa on Canterbury’s Banks Peninsula after more rain has fallen in the last two days than it has so far this year.
The worst of the flooding is around the recreation ground and people have been asked to avoid travelling through the area.
State Highway 75, the main road to Akaroa, is closed between Birdlings Flat and Barrys Bay, cutting off Little River, where the local school was evacuated on Monday. Akaroa residents are also being asked to conserve water.
The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (Niwa) is reporting that 188 millimetres of rain has fallen in Akaroa between 9am on Saturday and 9am on Monday.
Have you been affected by the terrible weather?
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
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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59% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26% No, individuals should take responsibility
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15% ... It is complicated
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
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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