What do you think about design work starting on the iconic old Municipal Building?
Whangārei's landmark old Municipal Building is finally set to rise from the ashes of fire, which caused extensive damage in October 2019. The former community hub has sat empty since the blaze, but design and procurement work is set to start soon, thanks to a $3m insurance payout and council funds of $1.5m for earthquake strengthening and accessibility. The physical work will start next year and will take up to two years. What do you think?
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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59.3% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26.2% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.5% ... It is complicated
Next Art Exhibition at Reyburn House Art Gallery, Town Basin, Whangarei
Now showing at Reyburn House: Simon Payton & Kristin Kay.
Simon’s exhibition features The Dancer, Iconic Warplanes, Portals and his distinctive 0s & Xs works, layered with colour and structure. Kristin Kay’s sculpture adds a strong three-dimensional presence in the gallery.
Exhibition runs 17 Feb – 15 March.
Meet the Artists: Friday 13 March, 5pm. Drinks and nibbles provided. All welcome.
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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