Throwback Thursday
The South Island's first shopping mall opened on Riccarton Rd in 1965.
Christchurch property manager Reuel Livingstone developed the concept for Riccarton Mall from shopping centres in Australia. His new, self-contained shopping centre included 66 stores and parking for 600 cars. Many property purchases and building additions, and with the new name of Westfield, it is still one of New Zealand's leading malls.
At first, almost surrounded by houses and vacant sections, it now covers the block bounded by Riccarton Rd and Matipo, Maxwell and Rotherham streets.
We don't have a current aerial photo of the mall, but the second photo attached below shows the mall in 2012 and how much the landscape had changed since the 1960s.
Spring gardening tips
Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcare’s Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. You’ll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and let’s dig in.
Click read more for more information.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84.6% Yes
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13.9% No
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1.5% 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.