Wednesday Welcome
You may have seen the 'Wednesday Welcome' sign outside the church on the corner of Breezes and Wainoni Roads, and wondered what it is exactly. you may have even received an invitation in your letterbox, or seen a notice at your pre-school or doctor's rooms.
So what is it, and what do people do there? The idea was to provide a space where people could meet, relax, and have a bit of food and company and something to do. It is held in the church hall from 10am to about 12.30 or 1pm each Wednesday. It is a lovely warm and friendly environment that starts with a yummy morning tea. Folk soon gather around their favourite activity, which might be just chatting, playing cards or table games like Scrabble or Rummikub, there are several types of puzzle books available and also some adult colouring books, pencils and felts. There is a large adjoining space where babies and toddlers can play with a variety of toys. All ages are welcome, from babies to 80's and more.
We have a well equipped kitchen in the hall, and around midday a good lunch is provided. We have served toasted sandwiches, soup and rolls, pizza and garlic bread, and quiche (not for real men, of course!).
We also have a 'bring and take table', if you want to give away stuff you don't need, and you are free to take away anything you could use. It has proved a popular provision and we have had to bring out a bigger table for everything that is brought in!
So, If you would like a place to meet with others and have a warm and relaxing place to be during the week, then please come along and see how you like it. You will find a warm and friendly welcome.
Poll: Is it okay to grocery shop in your PJs?
I'm sure you've seen it while doing your weekly shop... In fact, it may have even been you.
What do you think about people heading to the supermarket in their pyjamas?
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13.7% It's fine!
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77% It's questionable
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9.3% Other - I'll share below
Have your say on Canterbury’s public transport
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Canterbury residents are being encouraged to have their say on public transport in the region.
Environment Canterbury has released its draft public transport plan and is seeking submissions.
The draft plan outlines a vision for public transport in the region and notes key priorities such as improving the environment, growing patronage, accessibility, innovation and technology, and affordability.
‘‘Public transport takes many forms with communities across our region,’’ councillor Peter Scott said.
‘‘With limited funding available, we need to make sure we make the best decisions to deliver a public transport network that is integrated with urban development, innovative and meets the needs of new and existing customers.
‘‘Effective public transport is the lifeline that connects us to work, school, recreation and our friends and family, so it is important we get this right.’’
The Canterbury’s population is growing and by 2050, it is projected 700,000 people will be living in Greater Christchurch.
The draft plan covers public transport for the region, which includes the Metro service (Christchurch, Selwyn and Waimakariri), MyWay by Metro in Timaru, Total Mobility and Community Vehicle Trusts.
It was developed in partnership with local councils and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.
Environment Canterbury has been planning to step up its public transport efforts by increasing the frequency of existing services and introducing mass rapid transport in Greater Christchurch.
But these plans have been stalled by a lack of public transport funding in the Government’s 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme.
A proposal to allow people to travel with domestic pets is also included in the draft plan.
Having pets on buses has been successfully trial in other parts of New Zealand, councillor Joe Davies said.
‘‘We’re keen to understand what controls are needed for our bus users in Greater Christchurch and Timaru to be comfortable with pets on public transport.
It is proposed to allow adult passengers to bring a single pet on board, as long it is in an approved carrier at off-peak times, weekdays between 9am and 3pm or after 6pm, and during weekends.
Another proposal would loosen those restrictions in future to allow for leashed and muzzled dogs and increasing the limit to two pets per passenger.
‘‘We want to gauge how people feel about these proposals. Now is the time to have your say,’’ Davies said.
Submissions close on Thursday, October 24.
■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Poll: Should employees be able to work from home?
At the post-Cabinet press conference, the National Party asserted they want public sector staff to return to the office. This has opened a conversation about other sectors in New Zealand who have adopted working from home (WFH).
Where possible, do you think employees should be able to work from home? Vote below and share your thoughts in the comments.
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72.3% Yes
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24.6% No
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3.2% Other - I'll share below
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