Otago power bill increases reduced as Commerce Commission caps Aurora's upgrade plans
Aurora Energy will be forced to reduce its proposed electricity lines upgrade by more than $85 million under a Commerce Commission draft decision.
The lines company is responsible for delivering electricity to 88,000 homes and businesses in Dunedin, Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes.
Aurora had proposed increasing the average monthly power bill in Dunedin by $32.70, Central Otago by $47.30, and Queenstown by $39.80 by 2024.
Under the Commerce Commission’s draft decision, the charges would be reduced to $22.20 for Dunedin, $31.50 for Central Otago and $22.70 for Queenstown.
The commission will hold public meetings on the draft decision in Alexandra, Cromwell, Wānaka, Queenstown and Dunedin between November 23 and December 1.
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% Yes
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14.7% No
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1.3% Other - I'll share below
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.
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.