1036 days ago

Fire restrictions now in place for Waikato District

The Neighbourly Team

As of the 10th of January, a permit will be required to light an open fire. This new restriction covers all areas within Hamilton City, Waikato, Hauraki, Matamata Piako, Waipa, Otorohanga and Waitomo.

District Manager of Fire and Emergency NZ, Daryl Trim, has shared that this change from open to restricted has come after the recent dry spell, where very little rain has fallen over the last three weeks.

While some open-air fires such as campfires, bonfires and land management fires will require a permit, holiday-makers and locals can still undertake a range of activities that include fire.

"If it does require one, the website can take you through a few easy steps to get permitted for the activity" Daryl Trim says.

Here's what you need to know:
- Open-air fires will need permits in the areas of Hamilton City, Waikato, Hauraki, Matamata Piako, Waipa, Otorohanga and Waitomo.
- Some activities such as hangi, umu and gas-fired barbecues are still permitted.

To get information on whether your planned activity requires a permit, head to www.checkitsalright.nz......

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More messages from your neighbours
4 days ago

Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.

Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.

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Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?
  • 63.9% Yes
    63.9% Complete
  • 33.6% No
    33.6% Complete
  • 2.6% Other - I'll share below
    2.6% Complete
2583 votes
20 days ago

What would you do if it was your job to fix Hamilton's CBD?

Libby Totton Reporter from Waikato Times

More alcohol restrictions, more lighting, busking rule changes and a whole lot of lobbying - these are some ways Hamilton leaders want to sort out the CBD.

Crime and anti-social behaviour in the area has been in the spotlight after recent news of a man defecating in the street near a city pub and another who flipped tables out the back of a bar after being found scrounging cigarette butts and asked to leave.

What would you do if it was your job to fix Hamilton's CBD? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).

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12 days ago

Poll: Have you ever tried learning a language?

Libby Totton Reporter from Waikato Times

Hannah Westbury likes to chat with customers at her checkout - so much so that she’s learning sign language for one regular.

Paeroa-based Westbury has worked in Woolworths for the past seven years and moved to checkout a year ago.

Have you ever tried learning a language? Tell us about it in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).

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Have you ever tried learning a language?
  • 52.4% Yes
    52.4% Complete
  • 47.6% No
    47.6% Complete
21 votes