Rates
Yes, this is once more about rates and it calls upon thousands of ratepayers: As I have pointed out in my open letter to John Carter in April, there are many of us who don't receive what he calls "essential services", for instance drinking water, sewerage, rubbish disposal or animal management. Especially in challenging times like now this is a hardship for all of us but if we read what our Mayor has written, like (quote) "...Your Council is also taking a hands-on role helping the far North respond to this pandemic....At the same time, we are ensuring the essential services WE ALL RELY ON CONTINUE UNINTERUPTED...They are VITAL to the wellbeing of our communities..." (unquote) then we are left speechless because his words are indeed misleading and untrue since in many parts of the district these in the highest degree important services have never been delivered, let alone now when they do especially matter. However: We are still expected to pay rates for something essential that is not available to us. This is unacceptable and I appeal to all of you who think the same: let's unite in our efforts to change this injustice to the old principle of "user pays." Now this is more important than ever before, but to be successful we need numbers. Therefore please write to atair.nz@gmail.com and/or go to transition towns Bay of Islands www.facebook.com... Together we are stronger!
Some Choice News!
DOC is rolling out a new tool to help figure out what to tackle first when it comes to protecting our threatened species and the things putting them at risk.
Why does this matter? As Nikki Macdonald from The Post points out, we’re a country with around 4,400 threatened species. With limited time and funding, conservation has always meant making tough calls about what gets attention first.
For the first time, DOC has put real numbers around what it would take to do everything needed to properly safeguard our unique natural environment. The new BioInvest tool shows the scale of the challenge: 310,177 actions across 28,007 sites.
Now that we can see the full picture, it brings the big question into focus: how much do we, as Kiwis, truly value protecting nature — and what are we prepared to invest to make it happen?
We hope this brings a smile!
⛰️ Is Bream Head the ultimate Northland spot?
According to The Press, the Bream Head Scenic Reserve at Whangārei Heads has it all: the best views, the best forest, and the best adventures.
Do you have a hidden gem that gives Bream Head a run for its money?
We’re on a mission to find Northland's best "Secret Spots" 🤫
We want to hear from you! What is your go-to spot when you want to show off the best of the North to friends or family? 📸
Drop your recommendations (and photos!) in the comments below! 👇
Get up to $30,000 back* with your new home
Sign up to an independent apartment or townhouse at a participating Ryman village by 31 March 2026 and receive a $30,000 credit on settlement or sign up to a serviced apartment and receive a $10,000 credit on settlement*.
Imagine a new smart TV, your next getaway or furniture for your new home. With more money staying in your pocket, it’s yours to spend!
Discover the lifestyle that awaits.
*Participating villages only, Terms and conditions apply.
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