1685 days ago

Water nitrate testing in Ashburton and Temuka this weekend

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

Mid and South-Canterbury residents will have the chance to test water from their private bores for nitrate contamination.

Greenpeace and the Federation of Freshwater Anglers are conducting free drop-in water testing days in Ashburton and Temuka this weekend.

The current safe level in New Zealand, as mandated by the World Health Organisation (WHO), is 11.3mg/L.

The first testing session this weekend will be held on Saturday at the Mid-Canterbury Community House at 44 Cass St, Ashburton, from 10am to 2pm.

The second will be on Sunday at the Alpine Community Centre in Fergusson Drive in Temuka, 10am to 2pm.

Video: Selwyn residents with private wells had the opportunity to test their nitrate levels in Darfield this week.

More messages from your neighbours
6 days ago

Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

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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Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
  • 59.3% Yes, supporting people is important!
    59.3% Complete
  • 26.2% No, individuals should take responsibility
    26.2% Complete
  • 14.5% ... It is complicated
    14.5% Complete
1107 votes
1 day ago

Poll: Do you have a go-to adverse-weather checklist for your family? ☔⚠️

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

As reported in the Press, the same low-pressure system that lashed the North Island over the weekend is now making its way south, bringing heavy rain and strong winds with it. It’s a soggy start to the week for many of us.

With more wild weather on the cards, we’re curious: do you have a go-to adverse-weather checklist for your family? Or are you more of a “grab the torches and hope for the best” household?

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Do you have a go-to adverse-weather checklist for your family? ☔⚠️
  • 48.4% Yes - we like to be prepared
    48.4% Complete
  • 41.9% Nah
    41.9% Complete
  • 9.7% This is on my to-do list!
    9.7% Complete
31 votes
13 days ago

Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

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.

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