Poll: Rates hole - how should Hamilton City Council deal with it?
Mayor Andrew King has floated a 16.5% rates rise, saying it's time to bite the bullet and get the city's books in shape. Not doing so is the equivalent of putting our heads in the sand, he said.
So, what do you think the council should do?
NOTE: The fourth option, originally "Keep their heads in the sand", has been reworded to a more neutral tone. There were 51 votes at that time.
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41.6% Cut services and all unnecessary spending
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8.8% Increase rates to get the city's books in shape
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26.1% Cut some services and lower the rates rise
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23.5% Keep rates increases within the normal range
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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58.9% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26.4% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.7% ... 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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