UPDATE: Tornado among severe thunderstorms
UPDATE:
-A tornado has left two people injured
-It ripped roofs of buildings and scattered debris through the air
-Power has been cut to more than a thousand homes throughout the city
Click here for advice on staying safe in a storm.
---
MetService has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for Christchurch.
Thunderstorms this afternoon and evening are expected to bring heavy rain and hail to some places. There is also a moderate risk of severe thunderstorms developing, which could produce hail greater than 20mm in diameter. There have also been reports of a tornado.
Large hail can cause significant damage to crops, orchards, vines, glasshouses and vehicles, as well as make driving conditions hazardous.
This watch will be updated by 8:00pm this evening. Keep up to date here.
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)
.
Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
-
84% Yes
-
14.7% No
-
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.