498 days ago

Calling all environmental champions

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

The lookout is on for Waimakariri’s environmental champions.

Waimakariri Zone Committee chairperson Carolyne Latham is encouraging people to get their nominations in for the Waimakariri Environmental Awards.

The awards were established last year and are organised in conjunction with the Waimakariri District Council’s community service awards.

‘‘Everything went quite smoothly last year so we are just trying to do the same again,’’ Latham said.

‘‘I would really encourage people to enter or make a nomination because the environmental awards help to bring into the spotlight all the good work that is going on out there, and hopefully inspire others as well.

‘‘Most don’t want or seek recognition, but are quite chuffed when they get it.’’

With two ecologists on the judging panel, entering the awards is an opportunity to get some feedback and advice on projects, she said.

The judging panel can also give suggestions for funding sources if it is required.

Last year’s winners included Noelene Francis, who runs the Silverstream Reserve planting days, Oxford Dark Sky and Cust School.

Nominations close on August 16 and there are three categories for individuals, groups and youth.

This year’s winners will receive a $750 voucher, some plants from Riverside Horticulture and a framed certificate.

The Waimakariri Zone Committee is a joint committee of the Waimakariri District Council and Environment Canterbury.

To find out more about the awards, go to: www.ecan.govt.nz....

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

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More messages from your neighbours
8 hours 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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1 day ago

Poll: Are Kiwis allergic to “exuberance”? 🥝

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

In The Post’s opinion piece on the developments set to open across Aotearoa in 2026, John Coop suggests that, as a nation, we’re “allergic to exuberance.”

We want to know: Are we really allergic to showing our excitement?

Is it time to lean into a more optimistic view of the place we call home? As big projects take shape and new opportunities emerge, perhaps it’s worth asking whether a little more confidence (and enthusiasm!) could do us some good.

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Are Kiwis allergic to “exuberance”? 🥝
  • 41.3% Yes
    41.3% Complete
  • 32.8% Maybe?
    32.8% Complete
  • 25.9% No
    25.9% Complete
436 votes
22 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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