240 days ago

My last Citizenship Ceremony as an elected member

Shirish Paranjape from Community Board member, Fendalton-Waimairi-Harewood C.Board

On 16Jun25, I attended my last Citizenship Ceremony at Christchurch City Council as part of the Hon. Mayor’s special/ invited guests.

These ceremonies had become a favourite part of my life for many years. I have been privileged to have been to these ceremonies at several venues, with many mayors and deputy mayors. Each of them have their own inimitable style.

I am humbled that Hon Mayor Phil Mauger made a special mention of this being the last ceremony for me, in his speech! What an absolute honour!

I am also lucky to have witnessed the citizenship of many friends and colleagues - over the years - and to be one of the first to greet them in person.

332 residents from 42 countries became New Zealanders at this ceremony.

More messages from your neighbours
1 day ago

Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙

One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.

So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?

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Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
  • 60.8% Yes, supporting people is important!
    60.8% Complete
  • 23.8% No, individuals should take responsibility
    23.8% Complete
  • 15.4% ... It is complicated
    15.4% Complete
324 votes
2 days ago

A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!

If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?

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25 days ago

Poll: As a customer, what do you think about automation?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Press investigates the growing reliance on your unpaid labour.

Automation (or the “unpaid shift”) is often described as efficient ... but it tends to benefit employers more than consumers.

We want to know: What do you think about automation?
Are you for, or against?

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As a customer, what do you think about automation?
  • 9.7% For. Self-service is less frustrating and convenient.
    9.7% Complete
  • 43.2% I want to be able to choose.
    43.2% Complete
  • 47.1% Against. I want to deal with people.
    47.1% Complete
2603 votes