165 days ago

Poll: Do you think rates should be capped?

Libby Reporter from Waikato Local

Waikato mayors have hit back at suggestions of “rates capping” to control council spending, saying capping councils’ main source of income could be a recipe for disaster.

Hamilton City mayor Paula Southgate and Ōtorohanga District mayor Max Baxter will end their careers in local government this year, and while Southgate said capping would lead to lower levels of service for ratepayers, Baxter said it was simply a distraction, and a “blunt tool” being used to put even more pressure on councils.

Do you think rates should be capped? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).

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Do you think rates should be capped?
  • 95.1% Yes
    95.1% Complete
  • 4.9% No
    4.9% Complete
61 votes
More messages from your neighbours
26 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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1 hour ago

Creative Spaces for Tweens

Arts for Health from Arts for Health Community Trust

Support your child’s growth and well being with our tweens art therapy sessions. Designed for 9–12-year-olds, including home-schooled children or those finding school challenging, these sessions provide a safe, supportive space to explore creativity, express emotions, and build confidence. Through fun, hands-on activities and guided skill-building, our tweens art therapy helps young people develop resilience, social connection, and self-expression.

Whether your child is not currently attending school or simply needs a peaceful, encouraging environment, tweens art therapy offers meaningful experiences that promote growth, friendship, and well being. Join us and help your child thrive in a welcoming, supportive space with tweens art therapy.

Book now at www.artsforhealth.co.nz...

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4 days ago

Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Ministry of Social Development is reporting that fake information is circulating about new ‘December bonuses’ or ‘benefit increases’

If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.

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