Happy new year from the editor :)
Kia ora,
And a happy new year to you all.
The team at Franklin County News do hope you had a great Christmas and holiday break spent relaxing with friends and family.
I certainly did - and enjoyed some wonderful time with the South Island whanau in sunny Christchurch.
It was just what the doctor ordered - time out to recharge the batteries and prepare for another year ahead.
Already, things are getting busy with so much going on - it’s shaping up to be an exciting 2018 and the Franklin County News is looking forward to bringing you the news from our fabulous communities.
Remember to keep in touch to keep us in the loop - I’m only a phone call or an email away - and I’d love to hear from you.
Phone me on 09 237 0410 or 027 204 2958;
Have a great rest-of-the week, and weekend;
Julie Kaio
News director
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
Poll: Should complete designs be shared with the public, or should the community help shape the designs from the start?
The Post recently shared an opinion piece on the Harbour Crossing and why a more democratic approach might be needed 🚗🚲👟
While most decisions sit within the political arena, many organisations—like NZTA—manage long-term projects that go beyond party lines. Politics can sometimes disrupt progress, and the next Harbour Crossing is a big decision that will affect all Aucklanders.
We’d love your thoughts: Should near-complete, shovel-ready designs be shared with the public, or should the community have a hand in shaping the designs from the start?
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81.7% Community feedback and transparency is needed.
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18.3% No. This would be impossible in practice.
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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