Posts by Western Leader
937 days ago

Asbestos found at Oratia District School

Melanie Earley Reporter from Western Leader

Kia ora neighbours, asbestos has been found in the grounds of Oratia District School, and almost a year later, it is yet to be removed.

The asbestos was detected, along with concentrations of lead, mercury and arsenic, in soil at the school more than eight months ago.

Since August 2022, orange safety mesh has been placed around part of the school field to keep students away from the contaminated zone.

Leo Foley, who has two children at the school, and was on the board of trustees in 2022, said he is increasingly worried the issue hasn’t been fixed.

“The area has been cordoned off, but I’ve witnessed multiple children playing there as it’s very easy to get around.”

Read the full story at the link below.

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More messages from your neighbours
3 days ago

Poll: Are Kiwis allergic to “exuberance”? 🥝

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

In The Post’s opinion piece on the developments set to open across Aotearoa in 2026, John Coop suggests that, as a nation, we’re “allergic to exuberance.”

We want to know: Are we really allergic to showing our excitement?

Is it time to lean into a more optimistic view of the place we call home? As big projects take shape and new opportunities emerge, perhaps it’s worth asking whether a little more confidence (and enthusiasm!) could do us some good.

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Are Kiwis allergic to “exuberance”? 🥝
  • 41.5% Yes
    41.5% Complete
  • 33.7% Maybe?
    33.7% Complete
  • 24.8% No
    24.8% Complete
581 votes
2 days ago

Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Ministry of Social Development is reporting that fake information is circulating about new ‘December bonuses’ or ‘benefit increases’

If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.

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24 days ago

Some Choice News!

Kia pai from Sharing the Good Stuff

Many New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.

Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours still get to enjoy these beautiful butterflies in their own backyards.

Thinking about planting something to invite more butterflies, bees, and birds into your garden?

Thanks for your mahi, Alan! We hope this brings a smile!

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