Council to install smart water meters ahead of next year's excess use charge
New smart ultrasonic water meters will be installed in about 1200 east Christchurch homes over the next six months.
The meters can send information about water use back to the council directly, which means staff will no longer need to visit a home to get a reading.
The new meters, which the council intends to eventually install across the city, also collect more data about water use and can provide readings over the course of the day.
The first installations in east Christchurch come as the city approaches its last summer before the introduction of an excess water use charge.
From July 2022, households using more than an average of 700 litres of water a day over a three-month period will be stung by the new charge. The average Christchurch household uses 540 litres per day. Continue reading here.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
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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59.6% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.4% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
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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Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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