Moving on…
I will be stepping down from the Fendalton-Waimairi-Harewood Community Board at the end of June 2025.
I am moving to Sydney as a work opportunity has presented itself; which also allows him to reconnect with daughters and a grandson living there.
I will retire from the Board effective 1st July 2025.
I have really enjoyed serving my community locally since 2016 on the Community Board, it has allowed me to support local groups and work with my colleagues to get good outcomes for our Community.
It did not feel right to continue serving on the Board in a paid capacity when from July I will no longer be in Christchurch.
I have raised this with my local Councillor Sam MacDonald who shares the view that now is the right time. It is my understanding that he will be recommending to the Community Board not to fill my spot given there would be a period July - October for the remainder of this term. This is allowed for under the Local Government Act and also means no cost to ratepayers.
MacDonald says "I have really enjoyed working with Shirish as a local community Board member, he has constantly been approachable to local residents and has assisted me enormously with local Board issues. I am thrilled Shirish can reconnect with his family in Australia, and it makes sense to not fill the Board seat given elections are just around the corner."
It has been a privilege to represent the people of Waimairi for three terms. I will always cherish these memories.
Needless to say, I will continue to follow the local government elections and other matters with keen interest.
Ma te wa.
Some Choice News!
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!
Poll: Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝
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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72.2% We work hard, we deserve a break!
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17.3% Hmm, maybe?
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10.5% Yes!
Have you seen Rowena?
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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