Posts by Waikato Local
236 days ago

Rates skyrocket in the Waikato region in 2025/26

Libby Reporter from Waikato Local

Rates increases of between 2.9% and 15.5% are expected to help empty the wallets of Waikato ratepayers as councils begin to confirm their long-term and annual plans for the financial year ahead.

Right now, councils are preparing budgets and going out for public consultation on their respective rates rises for the 2025/26 financial year, which should be in place by July 1.

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More messages from your neighbours
6 days ago

Poll: Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

There’s growing debate about whether New Zealand’s extended Christmas break (and the slowdown that comes with it) affects productivity.

Tracy Watkins has weighed in ... now it’s your turn. What’s your take? 🤔

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Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝
  • 72.3% We work hard, we deserve a break!
    72.3% Complete
  • 16.1% Hmm, maybe?
    16.1% Complete
  • 11.6% Yes!
    11.6% Complete
1065 votes
9 days ago

Poll: Have you ever had a Healthy Homes inspection done where you live?

Libby Totton Reporter from Waikato Times

Conflicting Healthy Homes inspection reports are raising concerns about the consistency of standards meant to ensure rental properties are safe and liveable.

In one recent case, a Cambridge rental property underwent two inspections within a week, with significantly different outcomes. The first, arranged by tenant Sara Lewis, identified multiple issues including mould, vermin, and ventilation concerns. A second inspection, arranged by property managers Harcourts, just six days later, found little to criticise.

Have you ever had a Healthy Homes inspection done where you live? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).

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Have you ever had a Healthy Homes inspection done where you live?
  • 26.7% Yes
    26.7% Complete
  • 73.3% No
    73.3% Complete
15 votes
20 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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