Storm caused havoc across region
Rivers across Canterbury surged after what was called a one-in- 100-year downpour, pushing stopbanks to the brink and triggering rescues, evacuations, power cuts and road closures.
All residents in low-lying areas of Pines Beach were told to evacuate about 9.30am on Monday after a flood gate became stuck open, putting parts of the village at risk of flooding.
The Civil Defence Centre at Rangiora Baptist Church was open for those needing somewhere to stay.
Pines Kairaki Beach Association committee president Mandy Cooke said the area had been through earthquakes, fires and floods over the last decade and was "certainly a very resilient community".
The 'red alert' MetService issued for Canterbury last week was lifted at 8pm on Monday, and several days of settled weather was forecast next.
Water levels were easing, but a regional state of emergency remained in place. Roads were still closed and several communities either evacuated or cut off. The total cost of the disaster was only just beginning to be tallied.
A truck driver died in North Canterbury after a tree fell onto the vehicle's cab on Monday afternoon. Police could not confirm if weather played a factor.
About 20 locals in the Lees Valley were cut off after the Whistler Bridge was swept away and a huge chunk of the only access road was washed out.
A helicopter delivered groceries, people and dogs into the area on Tuesday.
See press.co.nz for full Canterbury floods coverage.
Live Q&A: Garden maintenance with Crewcut
This Wednesday, we're having another Neighbourly Q&A session. This time with John Bracewell from Crewcut.
John Bracewell, former Black Caps coach turned Franchisee Development Manager and currently the face of Crewcut’s #Movember campaign, knows a thing or two about keeping the grass looking sharp—whether it’s on a cricket pitch or in your backyard!
As a seasoned Crewcut franchisee, John is excited to answer your lawn and gardening questions. After years of perfecting the greens on the field, he's ready to share tips on how to knock your garden out of the park. Let's just say he’s as passionate about lush lawns as he is about a good game of cricket!
John is happy to answer questions about lawn mowing, tree/hedge trimming, tidying your garden, ride on mowing, you name it! He'll be online on Wednesday, 27th of November to answer them all.
Share your question below now ⬇️
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: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
-
4.7% Second half of November
-
43.9% 1st December
-
17.7% A week before Christmas
-
32.6% Whenever you wish
-
1.1% Other - I'll share below