Hurunui District , Amberley

129 days ago

Anzac Day opening planned for historic Hanmer building

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

The restoration of the historic Soldiers’ Block in Hanmer Springs is on track to be completed in time for Anzac Day 2025.

Hurunui mayor Marie Black says she is excited at the prospect of unveiling the restored building, given the building’s history.… View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

The restoration of the historic Soldiers’ Block in Hanmer Springs is on track to be completed in time for Anzac Day 2025.

Hurunui mayor Marie Black says she is excited at the prospect of unveiling the restored building, given the building’s history.

The Soldiers’ Block was opened in 1916 to rehabilitate soldiers returning from World War I, and was later used as a drug and alcohol treatment facility.

The site also has cultural significance for Ngāti Kurī, with the council working closely with Te Rūnanga o Kaikōura.

The project is part of a $3.5 million redevelopment of the Queen Mary Historic Reserve and includes earthquake strengthening and restoring the building for public use.

‘‘There is a real sense of excitement in the community and not just in Hanmer,’’ Black said.

‘‘People have been coming up and asking about it at community events, so I think it is quite special from a district-wide perspective.’’

Local firm O’Brien Construction was granted the contract to create a multi use community space in the middle of the building.

All going to plan, the wharenui will be available to Ngāti Kurī to occupy by Anzac Day, and the two octagons will be ready to use, but not fitted out.

Community groups from Hanmer Springs and the wider region were starting to think about how they might use the space, Black said.

Hurunui District Council chief executive Hamish Dobbie said it had been a long journey, since the buildings were signed over to the council in 2010.

The $3.5 million project is being funded by a Lotteries grant, $1.5m from the Government’s Better Off funding, development contributions and a grant from the council’s Earthquake Prone Buildings Fund.

A 2022 report, prepared as part of a concept plan developed by Weta Workshop, of Wellington, says Hanmer Springs was known as Te Whaka takaka o te karehu o te ahi a Tamatea (the resting place of the embers of the fires of Tamatea).

The thermal reserve was recognised as a place of regeneration and healing, making it a sacred place for Ngāti Kurī.

Stage two of the project involves turning the two Soldiers’ Block octagons into museum spaces to recognise the site’s heritage.

It would require the community to raise a further $6m, the council’s chief strategy and community officer, Judith Batchelor, said.

‘‘The vision is to potentially create something similar to the New Zealand experience at Le Quesnoy in France.’’

Staff plan to bring a report to the council later this month to ask for funding, in the form of a loan to be paid off through fundraising, and approval to establish a community trust.

The council is also proposing to build a new sports pavilion on the site and has budgeted $400,000 in the long-term plan.

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

130 days ago

Rural healthcare has unique challenges – mayors

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

The health needs of rural communities must not be forgotten amid the latest healthcare sector changes, North Canterbury's mayors say.

Te Whatu Ora Health NZ recently announced the appointment of four regional deputy executive directors, including … View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

The health needs of rural communities must not be forgotten amid the latest healthcare sector changes, North Canterbury's mayors say.

Te Whatu Ora Health NZ recently announced the appointment of four regional deputy executive directors, including one based in Christchurch, in a move back towards regional decision making.

Hurunui mayor Marie Black and Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon have been calling for local accountability since district health boards were replaced by Health NZ two years ago.

Martin Keogh has been appointed deputy executive director for the South Island.

Black said while she welcomed some decision making closer to home, she questioned how much understanding there would be of rural community needs.

‘‘The South Island is a big area to cover with a lot of different issues and knowing what it is actually like to provide a service in Cheviot, for example, might be difficult,’’ Black said.

‘‘Attraction and retention of staff in a rural setting remains a challenge.
‘‘It is a fairly tiresome role in a rural district, because you are always on call, even when you are not.’’

Providing services to help older people in their homes is more challenging in a rural community, she said.

This is because home help services often become ‘‘fragmented and fragile’’ due to the distances involved, Black said.

‘‘We need to keep an eye on that and on providing care for end of life and respite care.’’

The use of Telehealth technology has been talked about in the media as it is increasingly used to cover for a lack medical professionals, particularly in rural areas.

The increased reliance on Telehealth might work for some people, but can be challenging for older people, Black said.

But rural communities had ‘‘magnificent’’ volunteers services such as St John and Meals on Wheels, she said.

Gordon said it had been difficult to get answers about health issues impacting on Waimakariri residents since district health boards were abolished.

Appointing a South Island-based director is ‘‘a great first step’’ towards local accountability, he said.

‘‘This is something I advocated for because I know that having a local voice close to the issues is vital for our communities.

‘‘The old DHB system was not ideal, but at least we knew who was accountable and who to call when issues arose.’’

Health NZ has been contacted for comment.

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

130 days ago

Calls to fund youth employment programme

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

North Canterbury’s mayors are calling for funding certainty for a youth jobs programme as unemployment continues to rise.

Kaikōura mayor Craig Mackle and Hurunui mayor Marie Black are asking the Government for a long-term funding commitment for the … View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

North Canterbury’s mayors are calling for funding certainty for a youth jobs programme as unemployment continues to rise.

Kaikōura mayor Craig Mackle and Hurunui mayor Marie Black are asking the Government for a long-term funding commitment for the Mayors’ Taskforce for Jobs programme.

The national unemployment rate continues to climb, reaching 4.6% in the June quarter, with young people aged 16 to 24-years the hardest hit.

The Mayors’ Taskforce for Jobs programme is funded by the Ministry of Social Development, with the Government providing $18 million from 2023 to 2025.

‘‘We have funding secured until June 30 next year, but not beyond that,’’ Mackle said.

‘‘I know it is hard times for the Government, but those questions need to be answered now or we risk losing our co-ordinators.’’

His message to the Government is simple - ‘‘don’t leave people hanging’’.

The Kaikōura Mayors’ Taskforce for Jobs programme has placed 48 people in sustainable employment in the year to June 30, including 44 young people.

This included 16 young people being placed in apprenticeships.

‘‘We have shown that this works well. I can’t think of anything that gives you a bigger bang for your buck,’’ Mackle said.

Black said the progamme played a valuable role in giving young people ‘‘hope and purpose’’.

‘‘We are in difficult times and it is challenging for employers, but we are fortunate to have some brave employers who are willing to give young people a go.

‘‘So any financial support we can get to keep this programme strong and robust is vital.’’

Kaikōura Mayors’ Taskforce for Jobs programme co-ordinator Aysia McMillan said the programme was funded over the last 12 months for a target of placing 38 youth (16 to 24-year-olds) in employment for at least 91 days.

‘‘We keep checking in with our youth after the 91 days, but the requirement is to support them through the first 91 days.

The programme is now into its fourth year in Kaikōura and over that time 297 job seekers and 87 employers have been registered with the scheme.

Local Government New Zealand vice-president Campbell Barry said the programme demonstrated ‘‘the power of localism’’.

Nationally 6400 young people have been placed in employment across 33 different communities.

‘‘Despite worsening employment conditions, the locally delivered programmes have beaten targets to get more young people into employment,” Mayors’ Taskforce for Jobs chairperson Max Baxter said.

‘‘There is a real opportunity for this programme to grow and further deliver on the Government’s goal to get more young people into employment.’’

While the programme is funded until June next year, it has received a 20% reduction compared to last year.

The Ministry of Social Development has been contacted for comment.

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

131 days ago

Canterbury Open Days

Charles Upham Retirement Village

16 & 17 August, 10am - 2pm

Our villages are open and you’re invited to explore them. Discover our living and care options, tour our show homes, and see the amenities on offer.

Come along and experience why New Zealanders have voted us most trusted brand, for the tenth time.

We look … View more
16 & 17 August, 10am - 2pm

Our villages are open and you’re invited to explore them. Discover our living and care options, tour our show homes, and see the amenities on offer.

Come along and experience why New Zealanders have voted us most trusted brand, for the tenth time.

We look forward to seeing you.

Click read more to find a list of all our villages and dates for our open days.

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132 days ago

Pure South Calcium Bentonite Clay Capsules NZ made (Fully Body Detox)

Rae from Room To Heal

Hello Neighbours

Pure South's Calcium Bentonite "living clay" is edible, drinkable; 100% pure and natural from the mineral rich plains of Southland, New Zealand. Also known as Montmorillonite, this clay is recognized worldwide for its healing, protecting energies. Nature is the … View more
Hello Neighbours

Pure South's Calcium Bentonite "living clay" is edible, drinkable; 100% pure and natural from the mineral rich plains of Southland, New Zealand. Also known as Montmorillonite, this clay is recognized worldwide for its healing, protecting energies. Nature is the Chemist.

Pure South alkaline clay is a multi-functional mineral complex. It not only has vast mineral stores, but also has a strong ionic cleansing capacity. While remineralising the body it also is a gentle yet powerful whole body detox. One simple supplement – two vital functions for optimal health. Removes toxins - Remineralises the body & Improve your immune systems.

A clean detoxified bowel, liver, heart, brain, kidneys, blood, cells, intestinal tract = great health. No part of the body is left untouched by clay’s healing energies.

Maintains your body pH in an alkaline state which enables the cells to release toxins and absorb minerals.


Purchase here: www.immersioncosmetics.co.nz...

Exceptional Products & Services
Room to Heal in Rangiora
Reiki Practitioner
Therapeutic Massage Therapist
Bioptron Medical Light Therapist
Love and Light
Rae

Price: $45

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133 days ago

Help

Suzanne from Rangiora

Kia ora neighbours, bit of a random request here! I need to find out where I can get an educational/information "panel" made for a charity fundraising event this Saturday. I can't for the life of me think what these are called - I'm sure that they have a special name. … View moreKia ora neighbours, bit of a random request here! I need to find out where I can get an educational/information "panel" made for a charity fundraising event this Saturday. I can't for the life of me think what these are called - I'm sure that they have a special name. They're along the lines of a teardrop advertising "banner" (again, for want of a better/correct term) but would be rectangular and hang vertically with a weighted base and made from some sort of weatherproof fabric (likely synthetic)....if this makes sense!? Can anyone tell me what the correct term is for these, and also where I might be able to get one made urgently either in Rangiora, Kaiapoi, or Christchurch? Many thanks in advance!

133 days ago

WOF Giveaway

Rodney from Driven Automotive

WOF Giveaway!
We understand that these are challenging times for everyone, and we are grateful for the support we have received from our amazing community. As a token of our appreciation, we would like to offer a free Warrant of Fitness (WOF) to two lucky winners who book with us during the month … View more
WOF Giveaway!
We understand that these are challenging times for everyone, and we are grateful for the support we have received from our amazing community. As a token of our appreciation, we would like to offer a free Warrant of Fitness (WOF) to two lucky winners who book with us during the month of August.
To enter the draw, simply click the link below to book a WOF using the ‘MAKE A BOOKING’ tab on our website, and make sure to include the keywords "WOF DRAW" in the booking details.

The winners will be chosen at random at the end of the month. If you have already paid for a WOF during this period and you win, we will credit the cost of the WOF to you.
Thank you for your ongoing support, and best of luck to all participants!

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133 days ago

PAINTING AND DECORATING

Enviro Painters Ltd

Spring is in the air it is nearly time to for the big garden and house tidy up.Now is a great time to book in your painting and decorating projects you have been thinking about it is only 4 1/2 months to Xmas so don't delay get in touch with Andy at Enviro Painters today.

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134 days ago

Keep yourself protected against Covid.

Health New Zealand

It might not be making quite so many headlines these days, but unfortunately, Covid is still here. If you’re 65 or over, taking care of yourself is just as important as ever.

The good news is, the Covid vaccine can help protect you from serious illness. It’s free, and recommended for you and… View more
It might not be making quite so many headlines these days, but unfortunately, Covid is still here. If you’re 65 or over, taking care of yourself is just as important as ever.

The good news is, the Covid vaccine can help protect you from serious illness. It’s free, and recommended for you and many others as long as you haven’t had the vaccine, or Covid, in the last 6 months.

To book your vaccination, go to BookMyVaccine.nz or talk to your healthcare provider.
Find out more

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134 days ago

Duck eggs on sale $8 a dozen Limited time only! ***

Kim from Oxford

Until August 25 all eggs will be on sale at $8 a dozen (thats less than chicken eggs in the supermarket!)

Duck eggs are tastier, have more nutrition and can be eaten by most people who are intolerant of chicken eggs.

Pickup ChCh or delivery to Rangiora and Kaiapoi by arrangement (Min order 2… View more
Until August 25 all eggs will be on sale at $8 a dozen (thats less than chicken eggs in the supermarket!)

Duck eggs are tastier, have more nutrition and can be eaten by most people who are intolerant of chicken eggs.

Pickup ChCh or delivery to Rangiora and Kaiapoi by arrangement (Min order 2 dozen for free delivery at this price).

Pickup in ChCh on Tuesday mornings at 10:40am in Walthum.

***While stock lasts

Usual price is $1 an egg ($12 a dozen).

Sale lasts till 25 August only and numbers are limited.

PLEASE BRING UNUSED EGG CARTONS WITH YOU OR LEAVE OUT.

ALL PROCEEDS SUPPORT THE $400+ A WEEK RUNNING COSTS OF THE NORTH CANTERBURY DUCK RESCUE

www.facebook.com...

Pet Ducks also available for rehoming *Adoption Agreement and approval applies*

Ph, SMS or WhatsApp 020 406 41485

Price: $8

135 days ago

New lottery, new home

Heart Foundation Lottery

For only $15 a ticket, you could win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in the picturesque Cooks Beach, Coromandel.

Valued at over $1.2 million, this home features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area. It is waiting to be loved by its… View more
For only $15 a ticket, you could win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in the picturesque Cooks Beach, Coromandel.

Valued at over $1.2 million, this home features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area. It is waiting to be loved by its new owner.

Make this property your permanent residence, a holiday home, a rental, or simply sell it!

Get your tickets today at heartlottery.org.nz
Find out more

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136 days ago

GIB Fixing & Plastering

Morgan from Rangiora

Hi everyone, hubby and I own a small GIB Fixing and Plastering business here in Rangiora. If anybody needs any work done feel free to reach out, we do everything from new builds to renovations and patch repairs. Feel free to either message me or call/text Aaron on 027 467 3787. Thanks, Morgan

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136 days ago

Need a Head Start on YOUR TAN?

Rae from Room To Heal

Hello Neighbours are you ready to TAN FASTER, DARKER & SMARTER than ever before? Minimum Sun Maximum Tan

Get a head start on your summer tan with our + Bronzing Oil. This luxurious oil contains tan boosting peptides AND sunless tanning actives for an added fake tan boost. The lightweight, … View more
Hello Neighbours are you ready to TAN FASTER, DARKER & SMARTER than ever before? Minimum Sun Maximum Tan

Get a head start on your summer tan with our + Bronzing Oil. This luxurious oil contains tan boosting peptides AND sunless tanning actives for an added fake tan boost. The lightweight, silky formula spreads effortlessly and absorbs quickly, leaving your skin with a glossy finish that feels anything but greasy.

Use before, during and after sun exposure to triple your tanning results!

“Absolutely the best tanning oil on the market! My skin glows and gets the most perfect tan with little exposure to the sun”

Purchase here: www.immersioncosmetics.co.nz...

Exceptional Products & Services
Room to Heal in Rangiora
Reiki Practitioner
Therapeutic Massage Therapist
Bioptron Medical Light Therapist
Love and Light
Rae

Price: $62.95

136 days ago

Product recalls

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Hi neighbours! Here are some product recalls from the past 2 weeks. Click on the title of these to bring up specific details of the recall.

Food:
Harvest Snaps brand Baked Pea Crisps
Raymons Mince Pies and Sausage Rolls
Kings Finest Small Batch Liqueur brand Advocaat
View more
Hi neighbours! Here are some product recalls from the past 2 weeks. Click on the title of these to bring up specific details of the recall.

Food:
Harvest Snaps brand Baked Pea Crisps
Raymons Mince Pies and Sausage Rolls
Kings Finest Small Batch Liqueur brand Advocaat
King brand Traditional Soup Mix Gluten Free Vegetable
Pavillion brand Beef and Gravy Pies
Henderson Dairy brand Farm Fresh Raw Milk (unpasteurised)

Products:
Serene S2068 Bathroom Heater.
Rylee and Cru Pyjama set
Avanti Bikes
Kale Airmove Fan

Ensure you check your household items to ensure you aren't consuming or using anything harmful.

136 days ago

Revamp a cot

The Team from Resene ColorShop Rangiora

Give an old cot a new lease of life in fresh Resene paint colours with this easy makeover project.

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