Police Helicopter and Aviation Noise Complaints
Hi All, I've recently created a facebook group where we can discuss aviation activity and talk about ways of reducing its disturbance to the neighbourhood. If you would like to join and tell us your experience of noise disturbances in the wee small hours. It would be great to hear from you. www.facebook.com...
P.S.
Hi all, thank you for your lovely messages of support and encouragement. I agree that the Auckland police force provide an integral service and they do a wonderful job. They are an essential service just like healthcare and education, however, just like all public bodies there is always room for improvement. The created FB group is about exploring ways in which improvements can be made to all aviation activities over Auckland so as to minimise disturbances in the middle of the night. This is required because of the multiple health implications associated with a disturbed sleep, including poor mental health. Additionally, there is also ambiguity around what is happening in our skies. For example, the police perform undisclosed 'Special Operations' in the middle of the night over Auckland. When I asked what these 'Special Operations' include they advised that it is confidential. Which is fine, however, if these activities are to continue then let's suggest ways that they can minimise disturbance such as employing drones or consigning those 'Special Operations' to day time hours. Lastly, police aviation spending has jumped from approx. 3 million dollars five years ago to approx. over 13 million dollars in 2021, but it's hard to say to whether this money is been used efficiently with the limited and ambiguous information provided. For example, a high tech drone might soon be affordable enough to replace a cumbersome and noisy helicopter, if not, surely the maintenance and fuel costs are definitely something to take into consideration when performing a cost/benefit analysis. My group is about reviewing these ideas and giving a voice to those that do not have the loudest voice in the room, if you would like to contribute then feel free to join.
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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76.4% Yes
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22.3% No
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1.3% 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.
Aroha (Love and Compassion) - Day 14
Tāwhirimātea and the Rescued Tītī Birds
In a time of great storms, Tāwhirimātea, Atua of winds and weather, saw the little tītī (muttonbirds) struggling against fierce gales that had scattered their flock. Though known for his ferocity, Tāwhirimātea felt aroha for the vulnerable birds. He calmed the winds and guided the tītī to shelter, teaching the Atua of the forest, Tāne, how to protect them with his trees. The birds thrived, and in gratitude, they became a source of sustenance and companionship for the people.
Moral: True power lies in compassion, and by caring for others, we create harmony in our world.