Hanmer Forest, Hanmer Springs

Time to tidy that garage

Time to tidy that garage

Use Neighbourly Market to make a few bucks while you're at it

174 days ago

Four 65” Panasonic 4K TVs up for grabs worth $3,999 each

TV Guide

This winter, we are celebrating the 2024 Olympics with our TV Guide readers with a chance to win 1 of 4 65” Panasonic 4K TVs worth $3,999 each.

Pick up a copy of the TV Guide each week starting from the June 1 - 7 issue, find the codeword, and follow the directions to be in to win! We’ve put… View more
This winter, we are celebrating the 2024 Olympics with our TV Guide readers with a chance to win 1 of 4 65” Panasonic 4K TVs worth $3,999 each.

Pick up a copy of the TV Guide each week starting from the June 1 - 7 issue, find the codeword, and follow the directions to be in to win! We’ve put a codeword in each of the following three issues, so find them all for more chances to win. You’ll have until July 3 to enter online or mail in your codeword. T&Cs apply.
Learn more

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175 days ago

Last chance for tickets!

Heart Foundation Lotteries

Don’t miss out! For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in gorgeous Papamoa, worth just over $1.1 million.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by … View more
Don’t miss out! For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in gorgeous Papamoa, worth just over $1.1 million.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by its new owner.

Make this property your permanent residence, a holiday home, rent it or even sell it! Get your tickets today at heartlottery.org.nz.
Find out more

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179 days ago

Canterbury ratepayers face 17.9% rates hike

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Canterbury households are facing a lower than expected rates rise after the regional council found savings, including delaying some transport projects.

After two days of deliberations last week, Environment Canterbury pulled back its proposed average … View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Canterbury households are facing a lower than expected rates rise after the regional council found savings, including delaying some transport projects.

After two days of deliberations last week, Environment Canterbury pulled back its proposed average rates rise from 24.2% to 17.9%.

Acting chairperson Craig Pauling said there were some tense negotiations, but he was pleased with the outcome.

The councillors voted on 15 main resolutions, with several resulting in close division among the 16 councillors, he said.

‘‘Even though it was tense throughout, there was good support at the end and people felt there was some good give and take in the room,’’ Pauling said.

‘‘The feeling in the room was, ‘we have done all we could have’.’’

More than 1300 submissions were received on the draft long-term plan, with 153 making oral presentations during the hearings, which were held over four days.

‘‘We tested the water with some bold options in our consultation and the response demonstrated there were mixed views, with some saying we needed to deliver more, while others identified we could make savings or prioritise work,’’ Pauling said.

Savings were made by delaying some of the proposed public transport projects, including delaying work on a mass transit business case until year 2 and postponing bus route improvement work until year three.

‘‘It makes sense to delay this work so we have a better idea of where the Government and Waka Kotahi (NZ Transport Agency) are heading,’’ Pauling said.

‘‘Some councillors thought we should be more cautious, but if we don’t put it in the plan, we don’t get anything from Waka Kotahi.’’

About three-quarters of submissions supported the council increasing its spending on ‘‘river resilience’’, including flood protection, and pest and weed control.

The council is proposing to invest $25 million a year, over the next 10 years, to boost flood protection.

There was strong support for a district-wide rate for river resilience in Selwyn, and the council was considering similar options from the Ashley Rakahuri River and other rivers in South Canterbury.

Pauling said it would need support from the community, local councils and ultimately central Government.

‘‘Over the last five years we have been getting more and more requests for how we might move forward in addressing our rivers.

‘‘It is recognition that rivers are important to everybody.’’

He said river resilience was a national issue, as disruption to bridges on major routes could affect the whole country.

‘‘Room for rivers’’ was an important conversation and could be achieved by buying land, such as Environment Canterbury buying land beside the Ashburton River.

Another example was the Waimakariri District Council’s land purchase on Lineside Rd, beside the Cam Ruataniwha River.

‘‘By acquiring the land we can do something great for the community,’’ Pauling said.

Council staff will now finalise the long-term plan before it is audited by Audit New Zealand and adopted by councillors on June 26.

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

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179 days ago

Hurunui rates rise trimmed to 10.98%

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Hurunui ratepayers are facing a slightly lower rates hike of 10.98 percent.

Hurunui District Council staff have taken a fine-tooth comb to the 2024-34 long-term plan budgets to find some savings, after earlier proposing a rates rise of 12.37%.

View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Hurunui ratepayers are facing a slightly lower rates hike of 10.98 percent.

Hurunui District Council staff have taken a fine-tooth comb to the 2024-34 long-term plan budgets to find some savings, after earlier proposing a rates rise of 12.37%.

Councillors gave clear instructions to staff to find some savings during deliberations earlier this month.

Speaking at Tuesday’s council meeting, chief financial officer Jason Beck said savings had been found across several budgets.

The staff allocation for this year has been reduced from 155.41 to 150.05 full-time equivalents and the councillors’ mileage allowance has also had a trim.

The pain is expected to continue, as the the council is predicting a 14.49% rates hike for the 2025-26 financial year, Beck said.

But the rate rises from year 3 were expected to drop below 5%.

The council consulted on investment in roading, the development of the Queen Mary Historic Reserve in Hanmer Springs and rating for stormwater activities.

Provision has also been made to replenish the coastal bund at Amberley Beach.

A bund is a type of embankment which protects against the sea.

Amberley Beach ratepayers will be levied $303.56 a year, an increase from $258.83 a year, which was requested by the residents’ group.

Chief executive Hamish Dobbie said the council was also exploring purchasing land at a cost of $1 million as it plans for future proactive relocation as part of the Amberley Beach Coastal Adaptation Plan, which was adopted last year.

It would be debt funded and paid off by a targeted rate, once an agreement has been reached with residents.

The final 2024-34 long-term plan is due to be adopted at the next council meeting on June 25.

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

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180 days ago

Powerline tampering/theft across Christchurch.

The Team from Canterbury Police

Police are appealing for information following recent incidents of powerline tampering and theft across Christchurch.

Over the last 10 days, Police have been notified of increasing reports of powerline theft and tampering.
Incidents occurred in multiple central locations such as Disraeli Street… View more
Police are appealing for information following recent incidents of powerline tampering and theft across Christchurch.

Over the last 10 days, Police have been notified of increasing reports of powerline theft and tampering.
Incidents occurred in multiple central locations such as Disraeli Street in Addington, the area surrounding Hillview Road and Phillips Road in Phillipstown and Brougham Street, they are as wide spanning as West Melton, Halswell, and Marshlands.

Police have informed Community Patrol and Frontline Police units on what to look out for and have communicated with businesses and residents in affected areas.
Police are also engaging with local scrap metal dealers as part of the investigation.
On multiple recent occasions powerline tampering and the theft of copper from the powerlines have led to power outages on affected streets.

Typically once the offenders get what they want, the powerlines are left in an exposed and dangerous state. In one occasion powerlines were tampered with and left broken outside of a Phillip Street Preschool. Fortunately, no one has been harmed, but as far as Police are concerned it is only a matter of time.

Senior Sergeant Roy Appley says: “Our message to offenders is to stop this behaviour before someone, including yourself, gets hurt.
“You are putting yourselves and others at extreme risk of electrocution, for such a small return.”
We are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in identifying and locating those involved.
“If you hear anything out of the ordinary overnight, do not think nothing of it.
“We need Christchurch residents to be aware of the risk of exposed or damaged wires – do not touch them and call Orion on 0800 363 9898 straight away,” says Snr Sgt Appley.
Police urge residents to ring 111 immediately if you see anyone acting suspiciously around power poles and lines, or 105 after the fact

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180 days ago

Keep yourself protected against Covid

Ministry of Health

It might not be making quite so many headlines these days, but unfortunately, Covid is still here. If you’re 65 or over, taking care of yourself is just as important as ever.

The good news is, keeping up to date with the Covid vaccine can help protect you from serious illness. It’s free. And… View more
It might not be making quite so many headlines these days, but unfortunately, Covid is still here. If you’re 65 or over, taking care of yourself is just as important as ever.

The good news is, keeping up to date with the Covid vaccine can help protect you from serious illness. It’s free. And recommended for you and many others as long as you haven’t had the vaccine, or Covid, in the last 6 months.

To book your vaccination, or talk to your healthcare provider.
Find out more

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180 days ago

As voted by you New Zealand

Charles Upham Retirement Village

Ryman is proud to be recognised as New Zealand’s Most Trusted Brand in Aged Care & Retirement Villages once again! So we want to say THANK YOU Aotearoa, for your continued trust and support. Together, we’ll continue building vibrant communities where everyone can thrive.

Here’s to 10 … View more
Ryman is proud to be recognised as New Zealand’s Most Trusted Brand in Aged Care & Retirement Villages once again! So we want to say THANK YOU Aotearoa, for your continued trust and support. Together, we’ll continue building vibrant communities where everyone can thrive.

Here’s to 10 more years of trust and excellence! #Ryman #MostTrusted #Community

Click read more for more information.

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193 days ago

Where do you find the best bargains in Canterbury?

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

The first South Island edition of the Reduced to Clear outlet store opened in Christchurch’s South City mall this month. It sells end-of-the-line products, cancelled exports or short-dated items - similar to other discount grocers in the city such as Save More and BargainMe.

We're keen to… View more
The first South Island edition of the Reduced to Clear outlet store opened in Christchurch’s South City mall this month. It sells end-of-the-line products, cancelled exports or short-dated items - similar to other discount grocers in the city such as Save More and BargainMe.

We're keen to hear from you - where do you find the best bargains in Canterbury? Who has the cheapest veges, the best deals on spices and nuts, the lowest price for petrol etc? What are your tips for dealing with cost of living increases? Comment below or email reporters@press.co.nz

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183 days ago

Find a Retirement Village in New Zealand

Charles Upham Retirement Village

Ryman Healthcare offers the very best of retirement living and aged care with retirement villages throughout New Zealand. You'll find Ryman retirement villages near you, each with a unique personality and a range of living and care options. Gain a lifestyle you can thrive in and connect with … View moreRyman Healthcare offers the very best of retirement living and aged care with retirement villages throughout New Zealand. You'll find Ryman retirement villages near you, each with a unique personality and a range of living and care options. Gain a lifestyle you can thrive in and connect with like-minded people in a welcoming community. 

In addition to independent and assisted living, Ryman villages offer a range of care options. Depending on the village, the levels of care we provide include rest home, hospital, specialist dementia care, and respite care. In some instances we may also be able to offer rest home care in an assisted-living apartment. This option enables you to remain in your own apartment but with a little extra support.  

Click read more for the full article.

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184 days ago

Alternative education supports North Canterbury youth

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Tucked away on a four hectare block between Kaiapoi and Rangiora is a new alternative education programme for students who struggle to fit into the mainstream.

The Noaia Charitable Trust, based at Tuahiwi, took over the North Canterbury alternative … View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Tucked away on a four hectare block between Kaiapoi and Rangiora is a new alternative education programme for students who struggle to fit into the mainstream.

The Noaia Charitable Trust, based at Tuahiwi, took over the North Canterbury alternative education programme from Rangiora High School in term one.

It now takes in up to 16 students aged 13 to 16 years from Kaiapoi and Rangiora High Schools, Oxford, Amuri and Cheviot area schools, Hurunui College and Rangiora New Life School.

Programme manager Jackie Freeman said the small numbers makes it easier to cater to the students’ individual learning needs, including supporting them to earn NCEA credits.

‘‘We do an individual learning plan for each of our young people.

‘‘There is a misconception only naughty kids access alternative education, but there is a range of reasons why young people come here.’’

Most of the students are neurodiverse or kinesthetic learners (learning through physical activity), and often both, she said.

‘‘We are able to identify when the kids are getting frustrated or struggling with their work as soon as it happens, due to having smaller numbers.
‘‘We can see the bubble before it turns into a geyser.’’

Students can attend the Ruataniwha programme anywhere from one term or up to three years.

The programme can support students to transition back to school or into work or further study options.

‘‘We can be what we need to be for each of the individuals.’’

Mrs Freeman said the funding allowed her to employ one full-time and two part-time tutors and she looked for particular skill-sets.

This included a background of working with children through trauma, or working in youth justice or pastoral care roles.

Transport is provided to get the students to school on time, with breakfast provided thanks to the Sanitarium Breakfast Club.

Lunches are also provided, with fresh vegetables from a big, one acre garden.

‘‘One of our tutors is an amazing cook, so the students are so spoilt,’’ Freeman said.

The Noaia Charitable Trust was established five years ago by local Whānau and offers learning which is underpinned by kaupapa Māori philosophy.

It also offers the E Tū Rangatira training programme with up to 16 places for rangitahi Māori aged 16 to 24 years.

Those students can complete a New Zealand Certificate in building or agriculture and are supported into employment or further training.

The 4-hectare property has sheep and cows, with students involved in farm work and in practical work around the property, such as landscaping and building a laneway and stockyards as part of their learning.

Rangiora High School announced last year it was withdrawing from being a provider of alternative education services.

The school has developed its own programme to support year 9 and 10 students, which is funded by the board of trustees.

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

184 days ago

The Resene Wallpaper Sale is on!

Resene

Now is your chance to dress up your walls and save 25% off* the extensive range of Resene wallpapers available at your local Resene ColorShop! Patterned or bold, textured or neutral – there’s something to suit all tastes. Offer ends 17 June 2024.

* Discount off the normal retail price at … View more
Now is your chance to dress up your walls and save 25% off* the extensive range of Resene wallpapers available at your local Resene ColorShop! Patterned or bold, textured or neutral – there’s something to suit all tastes. Offer ends 17 June 2024.

* Discount off the normal retail price at Resene owned ColorShops and participating resellers. Excludes wall decals, WallPrint and clearance items. Not available in conjunction with any other offer.

View the full selection of wallpapers at your local Resene ColorShop and get a taste of some of the options online.
Find out more

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186 days ago

Stay healthy for them this winter.

Ministry of Health

Get the best protection you can before winter. The flu vaccine is free if you’re over 65. It’s also free for pregnant people and for many others with certain underlying health conditions, including diabetes, heart and lung diseases, and mental health conditions.

To book your flu vaccine … View more
Get the best protection you can before winter. The flu vaccine is free if you’re over 65. It’s also free for pregnant people and for many others with certain underlying health conditions, including diabetes, heart and lung diseases, and mental health conditions.

To book your flu vaccine contact your doctor, pharmacy or healthcare provider, or visit our website.
Find out more

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186 days ago

Choose the right hearing device for you

Triton Hearing

We believe kiwis should have unbiased hearing device information.

Order your free Consumer’s Guide To Hearing Aids 2024 to learn about all the best hearing devices on the market, including features, styles, and prices.

This comprehensive guide is researched, written and produced by an … View more
We believe kiwis should have unbiased hearing device information.

Order your free Consumer’s Guide To Hearing Aids 2024 to learn about all the best hearing devices on the market, including features, styles, and prices.

This comprehensive guide is researched, written and produced by an independent third party.

Trusted by over 20,000 New Zealanders, visit our website to order a copy and have it delivered to your door.

The Triton Hearing Team
Find out more

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188 days ago

Have you got your tickets yet?

Heart Foundation Lotteries

Don’t miss out! For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in stunning Papamoa, worth just over $1.1 million.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by … View more
Don’t miss out! For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in stunning Papamoa, worth just over $1.1 million.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by its new owner.

Make this property your permanent residence, a holiday home, a rental, or you can simply sell it! Get your tickets today.
Find out more

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193 days ago

Tips for moving to a retirement village with a pet

Charles Upham Retirement Village

Moving to a retirement village marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities waiting to be explored. Naturally, you want to share this journey with your beloved furry companion, and at Ryman, you are welcome to bring your pet along, provided they are suitable for the village … View moreMoving to a retirement village marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities waiting to be explored. Naturally, you want to share this journey with your beloved furry companion, and at Ryman, you are welcome to bring your pet along, provided they are suitable for the village environment.

Once your pet is approved for the village, the focus shifts to ensuring a smooth transition for them. Dogs and cats, being creatures of habit, may find relocating stressful. However, with patience and a thoughtful approach, we can mitigate their anxiety and help them settle into their new surroundings seamlessly.

For more tips click read more.

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