Palmerston North/Manawatū is already using water stored for summer
Palmerston North and Manawatū are drying out at a time when it should be lush, prompting fears of a repeat of last year's scorching start to summer.
The city's last significant rain was a month ago, when 11.4 millimetres fell on September 25. Just a few drops more had fallen since.
In the city's Turitea water catchment, only 22mm had fallen in 60 days, the lowest for the same period in eight years. City council transport and infrastructure manager Robert van Bentum said the dam had stopped overflowing, which was unusual for the time of year, and the city had already used 12 per cent of the water that would normally be stored for summer.
Unless the forecast rain eventuated, it would be considering water use restrictions in early November. He said the city was likely to have the benefit of one or two more bores operating this summer to help even out supply. However, Horizons Regional Council imposed limits on how much water the city could draw. Read more
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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59.8% Yes, supporting people is important!
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25.9% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.4% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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