Thank you for using Neighbourly
Pamela, a resident of Bert Sutcliffe Village, has a passion for good food, great company, and exploring new places. A seasoned traveller and cruising enthusiast, Pamela has sailed to numerous destinations, sampling local cuisines along the way.
Closer to home, alongside her son-in-law and … View morePamela, a resident of Bert Sutcliffe Village, has a passion for good food, great company, and exploring new places. A seasoned traveller and cruising enthusiast, Pamela has sailed to numerous destinations, sampling local cuisines along the way.
Closer to home, alongside her son-in-law and daughter, she has discovered a variety of restaurants that showcase the diversity of New Zealand’s culinary scene. Whether you’re planning a road trip, dreaming about your next cruise, or simply searching for a great dining spot, these are Pamela’s top food recommendations to inspire your next adventure.
Click read more for the full story.
By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Ashburton mayor Neil Brown says rates capping isn’t the answer for the district after hearing cautionary tales from Australian councils.
The Government is exploring the option of rates capping to balance the long-term interests of ratepayers with… View moreBy local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Ashburton mayor Neil Brown says rates capping isn’t the answer for the district after hearing cautionary tales from Australian councils.
The Government is exploring the option of rates capping to balance the long-term interests of ratepayers with the financial sustainability of councils.
It was discussed at the Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) meeting in Wellington last month, which included a presentation on how rates capping worked in New South Wales and Victoria.
Brown said rising costs demand smarter solutions, but after hearing cautionary tales from Australian councils, rates capping would harm essential services and increase council debt.
The examples highlighted that if inflation was higher than the capped rate increases, then councils couldn’t deliver all its services, he said.
“They either had to cut services or borrow money, or both.
“They were just getting into a bigger borrowing hole.”
LGNZ president Sam Broughton said a rates cap would ultimately limit council investment.
He said there was a lot to learn from the Australian experiences of the immense challenges that came with rate capping.
Local Government NSW president, councillor Darriea Turley, urged caution around moves to introduce rate capping (or rate pegging).
“Local government’s capacity to fund existing levels of services and infrastructure is under increasing stress.
"There is a wealth of evidence that NSW councils and their communities have been damaged by rate pegging.
“In NSW, it has severely hampered councils’ ability to fund current, let alone future, levels of service.”
Broughton wants the Government to keep an open mind about rates capping, and to explore other alternatives that could achieve the same result.
“Ratepayers need to have confidence in council decisions and to trust that we’re focusing on delivering the infrastructure and services that communities expect.
“That’s why we are also looking into the approach taken by South Australia, who elected to improve their rates transparency instead of rates capping.”
In Ashburton, Brown said there will be some robust budget discussion in the new year with a forecast 10.1% rates increase next year, following an 11.8% increase this year.
The rate increase shouldn't be increasing as "no new projects are coming in because we have only just signed off the long-term plan six months ago.”
The increase is to cover three waters and roading work, and increasing costs to insurance and servicing debt.
The declining interest rate levels could have a big benefit.
“A 1% drop in interest rates is about a 2% rate decrease,” he said.
When announcing the plans to explore rate capping in August, Local Government Minister Simeon Brown said council rates increased by around 15% on average this year, which is more than four times the rate of inflation.
"This is unacceptable and councils must ensure they are doing everything they can to reduce pressure on ratepayers.
“Ratepayers expect local government to focus on delivering the basics, picking up rubbish, fixing water infrastructure, and filling in potholes. We have done our part, and Kiwis expect councils to do theirs," he said in a statement.
If you've decked your halls with all things jolly, we think it deserves to be shown off!
Share a photo of your home in its Christmassy glory and be in to win a spot prize. Some of these entries will be chosen as a finalist for the grand title of NZ's Merriest Home which Neighbourly … View moreIf you've decked your halls with all things jolly, we think it deserves to be shown off!
Share a photo of your home in its Christmassy glory and be in to win a spot prize. Some of these entries will be chosen as a finalist for the grand title of NZ's Merriest Home which Neighbourly members can vote on!
Entries close Sunday, 15th of December so share a photo today 📸
By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Christmas might come early in Ashburton.
Ashburton mayor Neil Brown visited Wellington recently for a Local Government NZ meeting and took the opportunity to pop into the Beehive to meet with Minister of Transport Simeon Brown.
“We are … View moreBy local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Christmas might come early in Ashburton.
Ashburton mayor Neil Brown visited Wellington recently for a Local Government NZ meeting and took the opportunity to pop into the Beehive to meet with Minister of Transport Simeon Brown.
“We are progressing discussions on the second bridge and we hope to have an announcement in December,” mayor Brown said.
“Hopefully it will be a good Christmas present for Ashburton and the people of the South Island, as it’s a resilience project for the state highway network.”
The second bridge project is about improved connectivity between Tinwald and Ashburton that will reduce congestion along State Highway 1 where the existing bridge has had to close due to flooding twice in recent years, cutting the South Island off in the middle.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon made the pre-election pledge to start constructing a new bridge for Ashburton in its first term.
When he was in town on Friday he said it was “officially on the programme”.
“Ashburton Bridge is on its way.
“Timing will be worked through very quickly with Simeon, but it’s on the plan.”
The council and Government remain in negotiations over how to fund the $130m second Ashburton/Hakatere River Bridge.
“All funding options are part of the discussions,” mayor Brown said.
The discussion will include the possibility of a toll and areas of the project that can be refined to keep costs down.
The transport minister has repeatedly mentioned the possibility of introducing a toll on a second Ashburton bridge - either on the new bridge or the existing State Highway 1 crossing - to help pay for its construction.
Rangitata MP James Meager said he was aware of the meeting between the Browns.
“I don’t know what the outcome of that conversation was, but I understand they are getting closer and closer to reaching an agreement on what the funding mix should be.
“That’s the last big hurdle to get past.
“Then we can start making decisions around applying for consents and of course it’s in the fast track process so should go through quickly.
“Before we know it there will be shovels in the ground.”
Luxon and Meager were both confident the construction will begin this term, as promised.
The second bride project, a new 360m-long bridge across the Ashburton/Hakatere River, was included in the National Land Transport Plan and listed as a road of regional significance.
It guarantees the Government, through the NZ Transport Agency, will fund at least 51% ($66m) of the estimated $130m project.
That leaves $64m to find.
The council rolled over the $7.5m figure in its long-term plan budgets, but was aware it may need to increase its contribution.
Council chief executive Hamish Riach previously confirmed the council was applying to the Government’s $1.2 billion Regional Infrastructure Fund as the second bridge "fits very well with the fund’s criteria" in the council’s view.
The fund is a capital fund, supporting projects through a mix of loan and equity investments.
The Kiwi journalist drilling deep into the country’s biggest issues is on a mission to find the local greats.
Paddy Gower is looking for the Good Kiwi in every region to feature in his show, The F@#$ing News - Paddy Gower Live on Tour.
To nominate a Good Kiwi, email reporters@press.co.nz … View moreThe Kiwi journalist drilling deep into the country’s biggest issues is on a mission to find the local greats.
Paddy Gower is looking for the Good Kiwi in every region to feature in his show, The F@#$ing News - Paddy Gower Live on Tour.
To nominate a Good Kiwi, email reporters@press.co.nz with the name and a description of why your nominee should win. You an also share the local issues you think Paddy needs to tackle in the comments below.
It could be the woman whose knitting circle has made 3800 items for victims of domestic violence, the guy running the length of Aotearoa for mental health, or the woman with terminal cancer who spends her time campaigning to raise awareness and save lives.
“Basically I am looking for ... a bloody great Cantab who just gets on and gets things done. The criteria is somebody who has a positive attitude and makes the community a better place," Gower said.
“I will give this person the 'Big Ups' they deserve, and the community can celebrate them with me.”
A Good Kiwi will feature in each of Gower’s live shows in 14 centres through November and December. He will name the Cantabrian Good Kiwi at his Christchurch show on the evening of Friday, November 22, at St Margaret’s College.
The F@#$ing News - Paddy Gower Live on Tour is a sort of book tour, sort of stand-up comedy, some journalistic yarns and memoir, and some motivational speaking - with a fair bit of local in each show.
Gower also wants to know about topics of interest in the region.
“I’m ... going to be taking on a big issue facing Canterbury and offering up solutions.”
A stinky suburb, a neighbourhood needing a round-about or a cathedral in disrepair - “I will make your views count”, he said.
“I'm touring the nation to spread positivity, optimism and good vibes.”
*For tickets to the The F@#$ing News - Paddy Gower Live on Tour visit paddygower.co.nz
Queen mattress and base with headboard. Free to give away. Could possibly deliver within ashbuton. Also a drink cabinet. Sorry no Pic but can try get
This Wednesday, we are 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 … View moreThis Wednesday, we are 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 ⬇️
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on… View moreWith the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
Overall length 10' 6" / 3.2m
Beam 4' 6" / 1.37m
Dry weight 143lbs / 65kg
Stainless steel tow eye and row locks
Drain plug x 2
Light weight and stable, allows easily for two adults to stand without tipping or capsizing due to twin hull.
New price $3,800 Asking $2,000.
… View moreOverall length 10' 6" / 3.2m
Beam 4' 6" / 1.37m
Dry weight 143lbs / 65kg
Stainless steel tow eye and row locks
Drain plug x 2
Light weight and stable, allows easily for two adults to stand without tipping or capsizing due to twin hull.
New price $3,800 Asking $2,000.
Never been in water, purchased off MP but due to change of circumstances having to on-sell.
By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Power prices are set to jump by an estimated $15 a month in Mid Canterbury next year.
But to counter the hike, local power company EA Networks is considering increasing rebates for customers.
During a recent council presentation, an EA Networks … View moreBy local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Power prices are set to jump by an estimated $15 a month in Mid Canterbury next year.
But to counter the hike, local power company EA Networks is considering increasing rebates for customers.
During a recent council presentation, an EA Networks representative said they have some of the lowest residential lines charges, but "not all retailers are passing these lower charges on to customers".
The rebate bypasses retailers and pays a sum directly back to power users.
The power price hike follows the Commerce Commission's decision to allow increased investment in the electricity network.
This means the average consumer’s electricity bill will rise from April 1, 2025, to cover increased revenue for Transpower and local lines companies.
That revenue will be invested in the national and local electricity infrastructure.
The increase will represent a 5% jump in the average power bill.
In Mid Canterbury the average domestic user can expect to spend around $180 more on their power bill next year.
However, EA networks are considering the level and frequency of rebates, which would offset some of the increase.
EA Networks owns and operates the region's electricity distribution network and the fibre optic communications network, with Ashburton District Council as the majority shareholder (95%).
Shareholders Committee chairperson Robert Newlands, and new members Gary Wilson and Kate Templeton, provided an update on the state of play for the company at the recent council meeting.
Wilson said EA Networks continues to deliver some of the country’s lowest residential lines charges.
“But not all retailers are passing these lower charges on to customers.”
Retailers keep prices up and are “taking that income for themselves”.
EA has the second lowest network prices but ranks 12th once the retailers on-sell the electricity, he said
With the Commerce Commission dictating the increased revenue, line companies like EA Networks have to increase distribution charges.
“EA has chosen to keep its costs high, but then rebate that money back to the consumer,” Wilson said.
“They are only taking as much as they need for cash flow to run the business and the community will benefit with the consumer rebate.”
Newlands said if EA opted to have the reduced line charge, the retailers would absorb that and pass on higher costs, “and the consumer will be disadvantaged”.
“By passing on the costs from the Commerce Commission regulations and then rebating back, it’s a better advantage to the community.”
The frequency of the rebates is also being looked at, Newlands said.
He encouraged customers to shop around retailers for the best deal and consider energy efficency options.
The commission’s decision sets a 44% maximum allowable revenue increase for Transpower over the next five years and a 47% maximum increase for local lines companies.
The commission will smooth the increases over five years.
After the first year's increases (from April 2025), households can expect annual increases of $5 per month in each of the following four years.
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
Transform the inside of your humble storage spaces with Resene paint and you’ll be happy to delve into them in future.
Get our quick tips to transform your storage spaces.
Experience the perfect blend of country charm and city convenience in Clarks Beach, Auckland!
For just $15 a ticket, you could win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home, valued at over $1 million.
This home offers three bedrooms, spacious kitchen and living areas, and a double garage.
… View moreExperience the perfect blend of country charm and city convenience in Clarks Beach, Auckland!
For just $15 a ticket, you could win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home, valued at over $1 million.
This home offers three bedrooms, spacious kitchen and living areas, and a double garage.
Whether you decide to make it your dream home, a holiday retreat, a rental property or simply sell it, it’s still a life-changing prize.
Don’t wait—get your tickets today at heartlottery.org.nz.
Craving a dessert that makes the most of spring's fresh produce? Look no further than Georgina's signature Rhubarb Crumble.
This delicious treat has become a favourite at Ryman’s Bert Sutcliffe Village, where the sweet and tangy aroma often wafts through the air, tempting neighbours … View moreCraving a dessert that makes the most of spring's fresh produce? Look no further than Georgina's signature Rhubarb Crumble.
This delicious treat has become a favourite at Ryman’s Bert Sutcliffe Village, where the sweet and tangy aroma often wafts through the air, tempting neighbours in for a taste. It’s also a hit with Georgina's 13-year-old granddaughter, Brooklyn, who loves serving it warm with gooey custard or a scoop of melting vanilla ice cream.
Click read more for the recipe.
By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
The former Ashburton District Council building has been sold, but the details won’t be revealed until the settlement date in the New Year.
The sold sticker went up last week after the councillors decided to accept one of two offers they had … View moreBy local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
The former Ashburton District Council building has been sold, but the details won’t be revealed until the settlement date in the New Year.
The sold sticker went up last week after the councillors decided to accept one of two offers they had received for the site during the public-excluded part of the council meeting.
That means how much it sold for and who the new owners are remain sealed.
Chief executive Hamish Riach said details of the sale were confidential at this time, though more information would be released after settlement.
“There were two offers, which were discussed by councillors in-committee, and they accepted one for the entire site.
“We expect the sale to be finalised in early 2025.”
The property comprises 5059sqm in four titles and the sale was handled by Property Brokers agent Hamish Niles.
The three-storey council building was built in 1974 with a basement and the ability to add a fourth storey but that was scuttled by the changes to the building standards following the Canterbury earthquakes.
Issues with the building were first signalled in 2004, and in 2015 it was decided to combine a replacement with a new library.
The sale of the old council building will offset the $62.1m build cost of the new library and civic centre, Te Whare Whakatere, which opened in January.
The project received $20m from the Government’s shovel-ready infrastructure programme.
Earlier this year the council sold the former public library building for $1.1m to CBR Properties Limited, which plans to renovate the building into a boutique hotel.
It also sold two relocatable buildings for $160,000.
The three older prefab classrooms at the former Polytech site on Cameron Street were being sold for $1 each, but the tenderers need to pay for the removal by March 14.
The tenders closed on November 13 and the council is working through the sale process.
*LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
© Neighbourly 2025
Loading…
