112 days ago

July's Weather: Semi-Drought Ends

Murray from Paraparaumu

July in Kāpiti was a little cooler and cloudier than average, and the prolonged dry spell of the last six months continued right up to the end of the month when we had around 40mm of rain. The first signs of spring were evident in many gardens, as is usual by the end of July.

Our daily average maximum temperature was 13.6C, compared with the longtime average of 13.8 and last July’s 14.1. The overall mean temperature was 10.2C (10.3C last year). Kāpiti’s coldest day of the year to date, with a maximum of only 11.1C, occurred on the last day of the month, but the several light frosts were all recorded early in the month.

The equivalent of 13.5 sunny days was two fewer than average. For most of July it seemed we would again experience below average rainfall, but steady rain on Tuesday 30 delivered around 40mm, the heaviest episode of the year, pushing the total for the month to around 90mm, slightly above the longtime average.

August should see a slight rise in both temperatures and sunshine, with spring’s presence becoming even more evident in our gardens and countryside.

More messages from your neighbours
1 day ago

Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.

When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?

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Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
  • 81.3% Yes
    81.3% Complete
  • 16% No
    16% Complete
  • 2.7% Other - I'll share below
    2.7% Complete
657 votes
26 days ago

Gardener available

Michelle from Otaki District

Hi, Experienced gardener available. If you want help to tidy up your garden and get ready for summer then message me and hopefully I can help. Local references available. Michelle

V
4 hours ago

Heirloom Tomato Plants and Other Vegetables at Waikanae and Otaki Community Markets

Val from Otaki District

The time has definitely come to get those plants into the garden - or into pots and hanging baskets! We have several patio and sprawling varieties suitable for container planting as well as our extensive range of heirlooms in varying sizes and colours to add zing to your favourite tomato dishes.