People living out of Vehicles during lock-down
Police, Northland District Health Board and Whangarei District Council have decided to move all outlying freedom campers to two sites in central Whangarei.
The move will ensure proper facilities can be provided for the welfare of campers and provide them with closer access to medical help should they require it during the month-long Covid-19 lockdown.
This applies to freedom campers and vehicle dwellers regardless of their self-containment certification status. The exception to this is freedom campers at Cobham Oval Car Park and the Finlayson St Car Park who should stay self-isolating where they currently are.
A main site has been set at Pohe Island at William Fraser Memorial Park on Riverside Drive and a second area at the Whangarei Aquatic Centre Carpark. Both carparks will be closed to the public for the duration of the lockdown.
Police will begin moving campers to the two sites over the next few days and campers should stay where they are until they are asked to move by Police or Council’s Armourguard officers.
Council is working with other agencies to try to find accommodation for anyone rough sleeping in cars during the lockdown.
Police, Northland District Health Board and Whangarei District Council remind locals to be kind to our overseas visitors at this time. They are guests in our district and have been caught up in this difficult situation through no fault of their own.
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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.
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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)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84.6% Yes
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13.9% No
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1.5% 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.