175 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
15 days ago

Some Choice News!

Kia pai from Sharing the Good Stuff

Many New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.

Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours still get to enjoy these beautiful butterflies in their own backyards.

Thinking about planting something to invite more butterflies, bees, and birds into your garden?

Thanks for your mahi, Alan! We hope this brings a smile!

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1 day ago

Poll: Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

There’s growing debate about whether New Zealand’s extended Christmas break (and the slowdown that comes with it) affects productivity.

Tracy Watkins has weighed in ... now it’s your turn. What’s your take? 🤔

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Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝
  • 73% We work hard, we deserve a break!
    73% Complete
  • 17.5% Hmm, maybe?
    17.5% Complete
  • 9.5% Yes!
    9.5% Complete
263 votes
3 hours ago

Have you seen Rowena?

The Team from Canterbury Police

Police are urgently appealing for sightings of Rowena, 39, reported missing from Christchurch.

She was reported missing to Police on 22 October 2025, and was last seen on 14 August 2025. Rowena hasn’t been in contact with her children and her family are worried for her safety.

Police investigating her disappearance have identified her as being in Auckland, Tauranga and Christchurch in the recent months prior to her missing person report being made.

If you have seen Rowena, or have any information regarding her whereabouts, please contact us immediately.
You can contact us via 105 either over the phone or online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” and referencing file number 251022/9026.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

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