Proposed Auckland Council Rates Increase
Auckland Council Mayor Phil Goff is proposing rates increase (2.5% - 3.5%). It is unbelievable for a mayor who can propose such a ridiculous idea amidst a pandemic which will most likely cause a global economic slowdown. New Zealand will not escape from the hit as part of the international economy. Auckland, the largest city of NZ, will be adversely impacted by the slowdown as well. Even the central government has provided financial assistance to those suffering from the hardship in the lockdown period, I wonder why the Auckland Council could proceed the rate rise in this unprecedented difficult time. Not even considering to help out local residents to go through this difficult time, our Council is trying to add financial burden to the local residents.
In the 4 weeks lockdown, all infrastructure construction activities have ceased. Mr Goff also said that Auckland Council was already shedding contracts and temporary staff. It is reasonably estimated that Auckland Council would spend much less in the current financial year. Based on this estimate, it has absolutely no reason to raise the rates. On the opposite, Auckland Council should decrease the rates in this financial year to help the property owners to weather through the anticipated economic slowdown.
I have emailed my request to the Councillors of Howick Ward, Sharon Stewart and Paul Young, but got no response (so disappointed without even receiving an acknowledgement as a matter of courtesy).
As the rate increase will affect all residents in Auckland, no matter you are property owners or tenants, I hope you could voice out your views on this issue by emailing to the elected representatives of your ward who have promised to act on our interest in the last election.
Festive Delights at The Terraces Restaurant
Celebrate the festive season with a culinary journey at The Terraces Restaurant. Our festive menu features a delectable selection of dishes, from elegant entrées to decadent desserts.
Start your meal with a rich Chicken Liver Parfait or a light and refreshing Grilled Salmon Nicoise Salad. For the main course, savour the flavours of Squid Ink Spaghetti, a succulent Beef Tenderloin, or a classic Roast Turkey. Conclude your dining experience with a decadent Torta Caprese or a delightful Hazelnut Praline Parfait.
Book now and experience the magic of the festive season.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
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 airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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76.3% Yes
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22.3% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
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.
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