392 days ago

‘Perfect storm’: Tough decisions ahead for council under financial pressure

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

Hi neighbours, would you rather pay more rates or cut services?

City councillors are accusing Christchurch mayor Phil Mauger of paving the way for asset sales by making “dramatic” claims about the council’s dire finances.
They say cuts to core council services like libraries and swimming pools, as proposed by Mauger, were so unpalatable to the public they would never get through.

On Monday, Mauger said the council was in “shit creek financially” and cuts to libraries and swimming pools were on the cards to avoid an 18% rates increase next year.

Read the full story by reporter Tina Law here (two articles free per month, then subscription required) and share your thoughts in the comments below.

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More messages from your neighbours
1 day ago

Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

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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Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
  • 84% Yes
    84% Complete
  • 14.7% No
    14.7% Complete
  • 1.3% Other - I'll share below
    1.3% Complete
837 votes
2 hours ago

Spring gardening tips

Margaret Stoddart Retirement Village

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.

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5 hours ago

What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

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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