Parking charges in central Christchurch could skyrocket
Christchurch City Council’s draft 10-year budget outlines an intention to increase on-street parking from July from $3.10 an hour to $4.50 – a 45 per cent increase.
The cost to park at the council’s Lichfield St car park building could also rise from $2.80 an hour to $4 – a 43 per cent increase. The rate at the Art Gallery car park could double from $2 an hour to $4.
In a bid to cut operating costs the council is also proposing to reduce library hours, permanently shut the mobile library and close the Akaroa and Lyttelton service centres, as well as the Riccarton Rd bus lounges.
Read more here and tell us what you think of the council's proposals in the comments below.
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% Yes
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14.7% 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.