Casey
“I wasn't aware of it when I was going through it, or growing up in that environment, you just think it's your normal until you get out of it. Narcissistic abuse. Have you heard of it?
I was the black sheep. I left home real young, like, 17. I went to the Salvation Army, I was homeless. I went back to my parents thinking they'd changed, or, I don't know, something will be different, but it just wasn't. I had to come to terms with reality. Now I'm estranged, I'm doing my own thing. I've had no contact in ages, it is what it is.
I'm trying to get the skills, I want to pursue music as a full time job. Even if it just pays for the basics. That's what I really want to do with my life, I need to do it, it feeds my spirit.
I learned bass guitar, electric guitar. I learned how to rap, sing and a bit of metal growl. So like, you know, the heavy vocals. It's like an outlet, if I'm going through some real heavy duty stuff, I can just fall back on the music. I always feel better.
I saw someone had an advertisement for a band, so I got their number, gave them a ring. You never know what might happen. I used to be so insecure and shy, I hid away on purpose. But these days I want to be an open book, I'm more confident in my own skin.
I might be going back to the Salvation Army. It's better than being on the streets in the elements, cold, freezing. Yeah, you get a roof over your head three meals a day. It's better than being stranded.
I was born in Christchurch, been here my whole life. I also like getting out into nature. If I had money, I'd be a nomad, just travelling with a backpack. I do like it here, but it would be a good change to see the world. Yes, this is just a tiny little island, it's a big world out there.”
Secure your homes over summer
Police are reminding people to keep their homes secure during the summer months.
Inspector Glenda Barnaby, Christchurch Area Prevention manager, says daytime burglaries are just as common as nightime burglaries.
“Burglaries can be committed at any time of the day, and coming into warmer months there is more opportunity for thieves."
"Although a majority of burglaries involve forced entry through windows and doors, we are starting to see more incidents at insecure premises. Police deal with cases where burglaries are committed in broad daylight, sometimes even while the victim is at home. Good weather means open doors and windows, which makes homes more vulnerable to burglars.”
Inspector Barnaby says there’s a few things people can do to reduce their changes of a burglary being committed.
⚠️ If you’re going outside for gardening, relaxing in the sun, or working in the garage, take a moment to lock your doors and secure your windows first.
⚠️ Do the same at night when you go to bed - keep your doors and windows secure and close your curtains. Fitting window stays means you can get a breeze coming through, while keeping your windows secure.
⚠️ Get to know your neighbours - let them know if you’re going away and look out for one another.”
If you see any suspicious activity, people or vehicles in your neighbourhood, don't hesitate to contact Police.
If you witness or suspect any illegal activity, please call 111 if it is happening now, or make a report through 105 either online or over the phone, if it is after the fact.
Poll: Pedestrian access is being extended to the Ōtakaro Avon River - good idea?
Pedestrian access from one of Christchurch’s favourite streets is being extended all the way to the Ōtakaro Avon River. This new 12m-wide pathway will give you a direct, easy route from the street to the river promenade ... perfect for a stroll, a coffee run, or just soaking up the riverside vibes.
We want to know: In your view, what makes a city people-friendly?
What else should our urban areas be doing to support better community connections?
Curious about the full plans? You can check them out here.
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90.2% Yes
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9.8% No
Poll: Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝
There’s growing debate about whether New Zealand’s extended Christmas break (and the slowdown that comes with it) affects productivity.
Tracy Watkins has weighed in ... now it’s your turn. What’s your take? 🤔
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72.7% We work hard, we deserve a break!
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16.3% Hmm, maybe?
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11% Yes!
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