1019 days ago

Alternative system for charging for water usage

Gordon from Halswell

I complained about the excess usage charge as it was never 'fair' and in the back of my mind, I thought that it has been the council's responsibility to supply it to us free of charge, which has now turned into the 1st 700lpd, as it is paid for in with our rates.
The fact that some use small amounts and others a huge amount, brings the 'fairness' issue to the forefront.
This topic has made me rethink and come up with another system.:
The council drops part of the rates pertaining to water supply and treatment and instead, we all pay for what we use via the meter - 'User pays'- no arguments.
The people who do not have meters are charged an average, +25% to encourage them to get a meter installed
The boot is now on the other foot but with fewer problems and whatever you use, you pay for, just like electricity.
Having written this, I am wondering if this was not the plan all along. However it does not matter if it was or was not, I can not think of a fairer system.
Remember for the "Water is free" brigade, we are not paying for the water, only pumping up from the Aquifer, treatment, and supply to the properties
I am sure some will disagree.

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1 day ago

Poll: Do you set New Year’s resolutions?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

🎉 2026 is almost here!

We’re curious ... how do you welcome it?
Do you set resolutions, follow special traditions, or just go with the flow?

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Do you set New Year’s resolutions?
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    10.5% Complete
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    20.2% Complete
  • 69.3% Nah - not for me
    69.3% Complete
649 votes
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Morning Aches Are Optional - Let’s Start the Year Sleeping Better

Marketing Manager from Beds4U - Hornby

Hey neighbours,

Waking up with sore shoulders and stiff mornings? Here’s the plot twist - it might actually be your mattress (and pillow) letting you down.

It’s the perfect time to upgrade. New Year, New Bed! Our Boxing Day Sale is still on, so why not treat yourself to a mattress that actually supports you and helps you wake up refreshed? Side sleeper? Back sleeper? Tossing and turning? We’ve got tips and solutions for every kind of snoozer.

Don’t settle for mornings that hurt, your bed should work with you, not against you. Curious about how your mattress could be affecting your shoulders? Check out our blog: beds4u.co.nz...

Find your nearest Beds4U store here: beds4u.co.nz/store-locator
Browse all Boxing Day deals: beds4u.co.nz/boxing-day

Here’s to starting 2026 waking up refreshed, because mornings should feel amazing!

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14 days ago

Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Ministry of Social Development is reporting that fake information is circulating about new ‘December bonuses’ or ‘benefit increases’

If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.

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