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Dear neighbours, after reading about our search for New Zealand's most impressive and artistic wood piles in the May 2025 issue, Auckland's Anne Stephens Whitcombe sent us this photo that she had snapped while on holiday in Norway. Have you put together a wood pile that's just as … View moreDear neighbours, after reading about our search for New Zealand's most impressive and artistic wood piles in the May 2025 issue, Auckland's Anne Stephens Whitcombe sent us this photo that she had snapped while on holiday in Norway. Have you put together a wood pile that's just as impressive, or even more so? Send us a photo! Email: mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. You could be in to win a Fiskars X36 splitting axe L blade and a Fiskars X14 universal axe. We're looking for wood piles of impressive size or of particular space efficiency or even an artistic vision!
If you need information a good start would be to watch the video below:
melanienelson.substack.com...
With a mere 5 days left to submit on the Regulatory Standards Bill (the hard deadline is June 23, 2025, at 1 PM NZST), the "thought of the day" must be a direct appeal to civic duty … View moreIf you need information a good start would be to watch the video below:
melanienelson.substack.com...
With a mere 5 days left to submit on the Regulatory Standards Bill (the hard deadline is June 23, 2025, at 1 PM NZST), the "thought of the day" must be a direct appeal to civic duty and the urgent need for action:
"This is it. With only 5 days remaining, the Regulatory Standards Bill stands on the precipice of fundamentally altering New Zealand's legal landscape, with profound implications for environmental protection, democratic accountability, and the very fabric of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Your submission is no longer just an option, but a vital imperative to safeguard the collective future of Aotearoa against a bill widely condemned as dangerous and anti-democratic. Make your voice resonate before the opportunity passes."
Here's why the urgency is paramount:
Final Call for Public Input: The select committee process for public submissions is closing soon. This is the last direct and formal chance for the public to influence the bill's content before it moves closer to becoming law.
A "Treaty Principles Bill 2.0": Legal experts and Māori leaders are explicitly calling this bill "Treaty Principles Bill 2.0" due to its explicit omission of Te Tiriti principles from its "good law-making" criteria. The Waitangi Tribunal has already found the Crown in breach of Treaty principles during its development, making this a deeply concerning blow to the Crown's obligations to Māori.
The "Regulatory Takings" Threat is Real: This clause, which could mandate compensation if regulations "take or impair" property (including potential profits), is a significant risk. It could lead to costly lawsuits against the government, effectively creating a "chilling effect" that discourages vital regulations for public good, such as those protecting waterways from pollution, regulating carbon emissions, or protecting biodiversity. Imagine the cost to taxpayers, or the inability to address pressing environmental crises.
Undermining Democratic Governance: Critics argue the bill aims to centralise power in an unelected Regulatory Standards Board and the Minister for Regulation, imposing a narrow, ideologically driven framework on all future legislation. This could severely limit the ability of future elected governments to respond to the evolving needs and values of New Zealanders, hindering true democratic responsiveness.
Ignoring Overwhelming Public Opposition: A previous consultation period reportedly saw 88% of 23,000 submissions opposing the bill, 11.67% undecided and just 0.33% actually in favour of the Bill. A strong wave of new submissions is crucial to reinforce this widespread public concern to the parliamentary committee.
Don't be deterred by the perceived complexity. Even a brief submission clearly stating your opposition and outlining one or two key concerns (e.g., impact on Te Tiriti, "regulatory takings," or democratic accountability) is valuable.
A very quick submission builder can be found here:
hapai.co.nz...
Thank you
For the 11th time, you’ve voted us your Most Trusted Brand and that means the world to us. Because trust this strong doesn’t happen by chance. Ten years? That’s a perfect score. But eleven? That’s off the charts. Whether it’s your first visit or you call a village home, that feeling of … View moreFor the 11th time, you’ve voted us your Most Trusted Brand and that means the world to us. Because trust this strong doesn’t happen by chance. Ten years? That’s a perfect score. But eleven? That’s off the charts. Whether it’s your first visit or you call a village home, that feeling of trust is what sets us apart.
Who's having a clear out this long weekend? You, your sister a next door neighbour, if you are pop into the Red Cross Shop on Vanguard St and grab some banana boxes to fill up and return them full.
We are in desperate need of good quality women's winter clothing, homewares, sheets… View moreWho's having a clear out this long weekend? You, your sister a next door neighbour, if you are pop into the Red Cross Shop on Vanguard St and grab some banana boxes to fill up and return them full.
We are in desperate need of good quality women's winter clothing, homewares, sheets and blankets. We have been so busy we are dangerously low over all these categories.
We are open for your convenience on Friday 9-5.
We would really appreciate your donations as would our community.
With just 6 days left to submit on the Regulatory Standards Bill (the firm deadline is June 23, 2025, at 1 PM NZST), "thoughts of the day" underscore the immediate threat and the imperative to act:
"The Regulatory Standards Bill, with its potentially sweeping consequences for our … View moreWith just 6 days left to submit on the Regulatory Standards Bill (the firm deadline is June 23, 2025, at 1 PM NZST), "thoughts of the day" underscore the immediate threat and the imperative to act:
"The Regulatory Standards Bill, with its potentially sweeping consequences for our environment, the rights of Māori under Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and the very foundation of democratic law-making, is now at a critical precipice. With only 6 days remaining, every submission amplifies the public's voice against a bill widely considered dangerous and ill-conceived. Don't let this final window close without contributing to the defence of New Zealand's shared values and future."
Here's a concise summary of why urgent action is needed:
Treaty Breaches Confirmed: The Waitangi Tribunal has already found the Crown breached Treaty principles in the Bill's development due to a lack of meaningful consultation with Māori. The Bill's continued advancement without addressing this, and its explicit omission of Te Tiriti principles from its "good law-making" criteria, is a profound concern for anyone who values the Treaty.
"Regulatory Takings" - A Financial and Regulatory Straitjacket: This is a major point of contention. The clause that could mandate compensation if regulations "take or impair" property (including potential profits) creates a powerful disincentive for governments to enact vital regulations. Imagine the cost to taxpayers if environmental protections, public health measures, or even building standards could be challenged for compensation by those whose profits are affected. This could lead to a "chilling effect" on regulations, making it harder to protect our collective interests.
A "Regulatory Constitution" by Stealth: Legal experts warn that the Bill aims to establish a set of narrow, ideologically driven principles that would effectively act as a "regulatory constitution." This could severely limit the ability of future elected governments to make laws that reflect the evolving needs and values of New Zealanders, thereby undermining democratic flexibility and responsiveness.
Prioritising Private Over Public Good: Critics argue that the Bill's emphasis on individual liberties and property rights, particularly in the context of "economic efficiency," risks subordinating broader societal goals like environmental protection, social equity, and collective well-being.
The fact that an earlier consultation saw overwhelming opposition (88% of 23,000 submissions opposing, 11.67% undecided, 0.33% in favour) highlights the significant public concern. This select committee stage is the last direct opportunity for the public to influence the outcome of this Bill.
Time is running out. Even a brief submission stating your opposition and outlining one or two key concerns is valuable.
The simplest submission builder to lodge your submission in as little as 10 minutes can be found on here:
hapai.co.nz...
Hāpai te Hauora (Maori Public Health)
Many thanks
Discover ways to live your life with more authenticity and spontaneity. Build your capacity and develop your ability to respond effectively to old situations or new challenges. In this weekly course you will
• Gain deeper self-awareness and understand yourself better by learning what motivates … View moreDiscover ways to live your life with more authenticity and spontaneity. Build your capacity and develop your ability to respond effectively to old situations or new challenges. In this weekly course you will
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WHERE: Nelson Women's Centre - 44 Trafalgar Street
COST: Sliding scale cost of $120-180 (can be paid weekly $25-$30 p/w).
CONTACT: 027 276 5592 or awatersong@gmail.com
For more information on the facilitator: aliwatersong.co.nz...
Stats NZ said food prices have been rising at their fastest rate in more than a year.
Drinking chocolate is now 27% more expensive, coffee is up 17% and 1kg of mince was $2 more expensive this March than it was the same time last year.
Dairy products have also increased astronomically in … View moreStats NZ said food prices have been rising at their fastest rate in more than a year.
Drinking chocolate is now 27% more expensive, coffee is up 17% and 1kg of mince was $2 more expensive this March than it was the same time last year.
Dairy products have also increased astronomically in price. Milk prices are up by 15.1% in the last year, cheese by 24% and butter has risen up by a shocking 63.6%.
Are you feeling the pinch lately? Share what you've noticed in the comments below and whether it makes you change your shopping habits.
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How our Government is Fast-Tracking a Canadian Mining Company's plans to dig a motorway sized tunnel under a native forest. (Duration 6 mins) 10/6/2025
Please watch the video here:
bryanbruce.substack.com...
Our own Te Waikoropupū Springs in Golden Bay are under similar threats from … View moreHow our Government is Fast-Tracking a Canadian Mining Company's plans to dig a motorway sized tunnel under a native forest. (Duration 6 mins) 10/6/2025
Please watch the video here:
bryanbruce.substack.com...
Our own Te Waikoropupū Springs in Golden Bay are under similar threats from foreign owned gold mining operations. The Fast Track Bill in association with David Seymour's Regulatory Standards Bill is a disaster for our environment.
Please make a submission on the Regulatory Standards Bill.
Hi all
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There’s something magical about winter – slower mornings, steaming mugs, and time to plan your dream garden. So why not cosy up and get inspired by some of the world’s most beautiful green spaces?
Right now, when you subscribe to NZ Gardener for 1 or 2 years, you’ll receive The Joy of … View moreThere’s something magical about winter – slower mornings, steaming mugs, and time to plan your dream garden. So why not cosy up and get inspired by some of the world’s most beautiful green spaces?
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From the team at Mags4Gifts
Upgrading a lampshade is a cinch. Add a touch of design flair to your home by updating an old lightshade with Resene wallpaper. Find out how to refresh your lampshade with these easy step by step instructions.
Upgrading a lampshade is a cinch. Add a touch of design flair to your home by updating an old lightshade with Resene wallpaper. Find out how to refresh your lampshade with these easy step by step instructions.
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