Choice News Tuesday: New Zealander named first Commonwealth Poet Laureate

Kia pai from Sharing the Good Stuff

Good news for fans of creative expression and kiwi excellence ... poet Selina Tusitala Marsh has been announced as the inaugural Commonwealth Poet Laureate!

Marsh says, "When we honour the artistry within our communities, whether it flows from Sāmoa, my mother's island, or New Zealand, where I was born and grew up, we recognise the inherent dignity and worth of every person whose story deserves to be told."

Congratulations Selina, ka pai.

We hope this news brings a smile!

Poll: As an island nation, are we doing enough to protect our oceans?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The island nation of New Zealand claims guardianship over a vast ocean territory. In fact, our Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) spans 15 times our land area. Despite this, less than 1% of our ocean is highly protected.

Sheridan Waitai, member of One Oceania, argues that New Zealand is failing its obligations, and our failure is being noticed internationally.

Sheridan and others argue that the health of our oceans is declining as they face climate change, overfishing, and pollution. While other nations are championing ocean protection, New Zealand has been quiet on this topic.

We want to know: Are we meeting our responsibilities in the management of our blue territory?

As an island nation, are we doing enough to protect our oceans?

• No - we can do more.
• Yes - we are meeting our obligations.
• It is a global problem, not just ours.
• Maybe. I dont really have an opinion.
• Other - share below!

Vote View Results

• 64.7% No - we can do more.
  64.7% Complete
• 4.4% Yes - we are meeting our obligations.
  4.4% Complete
• 27.3% It is a global problem, not just ours.
  27.3% Complete
• 3.1% Maybe. I dont really have an opinion.
  3.1% Complete
• 0.4% Other - share below!
  0.4% Complete

678 votes

Poll: Have you felt the impact of electricity price increases?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Last year, the Commerce Commission announced it had agreed to increase revenue limits to facilitate the maintenance and improvement of the electricity network.

Consumer NZ have revealed their latest annual energy survey, and found that 11% of consumers have had to cut back on their heating, and 20% of people have been struggling to pay their power bill in the past year.

How does your region compare? You can view and compare how the average monthly household use, charges, and bills vary regionally here.

We want to know: Is your household paying more for electricity this year?
Do you have any advice for your community on what changes you have found most effective in keeping costs down in your home or office? Share below!

Have you felt the impact of electricity price increases?

• Yes! The increase has hit hard
• I am managing - we have found some solutions
• No - have not noticed much change

Vote View Results

• 80.5% Yes! The increase has hit hard
  80.5% Complete
• 15% I am managing - we have found some solutions
  15% Complete
• 4.5% No - have not noticed much change
  4.5% Complete

2017 votes