Can we wait six years for new trains?
The regional council has announced it will seek $415 million in funding for new trains to help increase capacity on the Hutt and Kāpiti lines - the busiest in the region.
Trains running longer distance services between Wellington and Masterton and Wellington and Palmerston North need refurbishments or replacements and patronage growth on these services has already exceeded the available capacity for both fleets, the council said.
Fifteen four-car Dual Mode Multiple Units would replace the current fleet and run on electricity from overhead power wires, switching to alternative energy sources north of Waikanae and Upper Hutt.
The earliest date for the first of the new trains being put into service is 2025.
What do you think? Just how crowded are the trains currently?
We'd love to hear from you and please remember to mark your post NFP if you don't want us to use it in print.
It’s Riddle Time! Beat the Neighbourhood with Your Smarts!
Which of the following words don't belong in the group and why?
CORSET, COSTER, SECTOR, ESCORT, COURTS
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
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Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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75.7% Yes
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22.9% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.