Fernside, Rangiora

807 days ago

NC councils count the cost of wet July

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

From local democracy reporter David Hill:

The clean up is under way in North Canterbury after the wettest July on record.

The Hurunui district received more than double its normal July rainfall, while the Waimakariri district was pounded with four times the July average.

Hurunui District … View more
From local democracy reporter David Hill:

The clean up is under way in North Canterbury after the wettest July on record.

The Hurunui district received more than double its normal July rainfall, while the Waimakariri district was pounded with four times the July average.

Hurunui District Council chief executive Hamish Dobbie said the rain had an impact on the roading network and clean up work was ongoing.

‘‘It wasn’t so much about the flooding, it was the amount of rain.

‘‘It has certainly caused some issues and our staff and contractors are busy with some patch up work until they can resolve the issues.

‘‘We had abnormal rainfall across the district. Cheviot normally gets 80mm in July and it had over 200mm.’’

Staff were still investigating what emergency funding the council might be eligible for.

In the meantime, Dobbie called for patience as staff worked on repairs as quickly as possible.

The Waimakariri District Council approved $3.15 million in funding at last week’s council meeting to assist with the clean up costs and flood works.

Mayor Dan Gordon said the council had a dedicated flood team working on repairs and responding to service requests.

‘‘We are continuing to work with staff to monitor the adequacy of our maintenance contracts.

‘‘There is also the $22m jointly funded, by council and the Government through its Shovel Ready Project fund, work in Kaiapoi on drainage and flood mitigation works.

‘‘This remains a high priority issue for the council.’’

Across the district there were reports of surface flooding on roads, drains being near capacity and a small number of properties had flood waters enter their homes.

The council received more than 1650 calls resulting in 800 requests for support or additional infrastructure during July.

‘‘Although we try, it is impossible to get someone to every single service request on the night,’’ a council spokesperson said.

‘‘That is why, with a triage system in place we can respond first to where we are needed most and work our way down.

Since July, council staff have been processing the 685 drainage and 130 sewer service requests.

This has included on-site visits, discussions with property owners, looking at council infrastructure and putting in place improvements.

Council staff were already working through about 1400 service requests from the May 2021, December 2021 and February 2022 rain events.

A flood team has been established to continue working through these requests, the council spokesperson said.

‘‘It is anticipated that it will take the team at least six months to work through these investigations.

‘‘Normally people can expect a response to service request from council staff within weeks of them contacting us.

‘‘At the moment, depending on the prioritisation of the issue, it may be several months before staff can meet on site with property owners as part of our investigations.’’

808 days ago

North Canterbury mayors pay tribute to 'remarkable' Queen Elizabeth II

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

Condolence books have been set up in Hurunui and Waimakariri following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Mayors of both districts have also expressed their condolences after the Queen died last week, aged 96.

“After 70 years of service, we acknowledge the Queen's unwavering commitment … View more
Condolence books have been set up in Hurunui and Waimakariri following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Mayors of both districts have also expressed their condolences after the Queen died last week, aged 96.

“After 70 years of service, we acknowledge the Queen's unwavering commitment to us all as the longest reigning monarch,” Hurunui mayor Marie Black said.

“She was a true symbol of stability with an incredible devotion to her duties, family and faith. May she rest in peace.

The flag at the council offices in Amberley and the flag at the Hanmer Library/Service Centre were lowered to half-mast to honour the Queen and her outstanding service.

Books of condolence were made available at all libraries and service centres across the district from Monday.

Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon acknowledged the Queen’s “remarkable service and devotion”.

“As the longest reigning monarch, she had a strong sense of duty and dedicated her whole life to her throne and the service of her people.”

The flag at the Rangiora Service Centre and the Ruataniwha Kaiapoi Civic Centre were lowered to half-mast last week.

Books of condolence were made available at Waimakariri council libraries from Monday.

808 days ago

Office Furniture for Sale

Jo from Rangiora

Hi Neighbours, we are on the move and selling our home officee furniture, as its too big to take with us.

Desk 1800 x 1000, Credenza 2 door & mobile 3 drawer cabinet.
Really good condition, dark woodgrain melteca

Offers are welcome, buyer does need to collect by the 23rd... thanks!

Price: $800

M
809 days ago

☆West Belt Walnuts☆ Spray Free ☆This seasons☆

Monica from Rangiora

Locally grown in Rangiora.
Spray free.
This season 2022.
Hand picked and packed.

They taste good too 😁

●Whole in the shell
View more
Locally grown in Rangiora.
Spray free.
This season 2022.
Hand picked and packed.

They taste good too 😁

●Whole in the shell
1kg bag - $10
500gm bag - $5●

☆Message me to Buy now .. OR
☆Order yours now and collect from the Rangiora Market on Thursday afternoon 3pm - 7pm. On East Belt

When they're gone they're gone.....!
(Till next season. ) 🙂 Don't miss out. DM now

Negotiable

812 days ago

'She was everyone's Nana': Flags at half-mast as Christchurch mourns the Queen's death

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

Flags across the city are being lowered to half-mast as Christchurch joins the rest of the Commonwealth in mourning the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Queen, the world’s longest serving monarch, died on Friday morning at Balmoral, Scotland, at the age of 96.

In Christchurch, which the … View more
Flags across the city are being lowered to half-mast as Christchurch joins the rest of the Commonwealth in mourning the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Queen, the world’s longest serving monarch, died on Friday morning at Balmoral, Scotland, at the age of 96.

In Christchurch, which the Queen visited nine times during her reign, flags are being flown at half-mast and condolence books are being opened at civic centres.

Mayor Lianne Dalziel said the Royal Family had been ardent supporters of the city, for which its residents would “always be grateful”.

809 days ago

Neighbours, get stuck in with a subscription to NZ Gardener.

New Zealand Gardener

Want your garden to be the talk of your neighbourhood?

NZ Gardener has all the step-by-step DIY projects you’ll need to achieve just that. As well as incredible photography, spectacular garden stories, recipes and more. Subscribe before 26 September and you’ll receive a $25 gift voucher to … View more
Want your garden to be the talk of your neighbourhood?

NZ Gardener has all the step-by-step DIY projects you’ll need to achieve just that. As well as incredible photography, spectacular garden stories, recipes and more. Subscribe before 26 September and you’ll receive a $25 gift voucher to spend online at Awapuni.

Just visit Mags4Gifts to purchase your subscription, or if you’d rather talk to one of our friendly staff members, call 0800 624 744. Offer valid for 1 and 2 year subscriptions at the normal rate.

T&Cs apply.

The team at NZ Gardener
Know more

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810 days ago

Farrier Tools

Jill from Rangiora

Not really familiar with these so see photo of them with pouch to strap to your body for easy use. Pick up is Rangiora.

Price: $120

810 days ago

Free to a good home.... Dog Bed

Jill from Rangiora

2 seater couch in reasonable condition. Does not have cushions but can give some as i have a 2 seater the same with cushions for my dog. Pick up Rangiora.

Free

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L
810 days ago

Swan plants

Liz from Kaiapoi

Some large $5 each , med $3 each and baby one $ 2 each or 3 plants for $5 , will be on display at 18 Matthews st Kaiapoi this Sunday 11 th

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811 days ago

ENVIRO PAINTERS LIMITED

Enviro Painters Ltd

Enviro Painters Ltd are a professional and friendly company that prides itself on customer satisfaction.
We specialise in all aspects of painting and decorating be it your new home or renovation interior or exterior.
All staff are Trade Qualified and i have over 27 years in the trade giving you … View more
Enviro Painters Ltd are a professional and friendly company that prides itself on customer satisfaction.
We specialise in all aspects of painting and decorating be it your new home or renovation interior or exterior.
All staff are Trade Qualified and i have over 27 years in the trade giving you peace of mind that you will be dealing with a professional. We service all of North Canterbury and Christchurch.

I Look forward to meeting you onsite to discuss your project.
021 226 8476
Enviropaintersltd.co.nz

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811 days ago

Waimakariri MP seeking a fourth term

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

From local democracy reporter David Hill:

Matt Doocey admits there were some ‘‘dark days’’ where he considered retiring from parliament.

The Waimakariri MP has announced he will be putting his name forward for the National Party’s selection process to seek a fourth term in the 2023 … View more
From local democracy reporter David Hill:

Matt Doocey admits there were some ‘‘dark days’’ where he considered retiring from parliament.

The Waimakariri MP has announced he will be putting his name forward for the National Party’s selection process to seek a fourth term in the 2023 general election.

He was first elected as Waimakariri MP in 2014.

But Doocey said there were moments after National’s disappointing result in the 2020 general election where he wondered if

Parliament was where he wanted to be.

‘‘I was very close to throwing in the towel,’’ he said.

‘‘When I look back over the last few years, since the devastating loss in 2020, where I saw so many of my colleagues leave Parliament, there were a lot things that weren’t right at the time.

‘‘Clearly we weren’t united and people don’t like to see disunity and there were concerns around behaviour of MPs.’’

He said being an MP had ‘‘an element of loneliness’’, being away from family for days on end when Parliament was in session.

‘‘There were definitely some dark days in Opposition when I did some soul-searching.

He sought advice from then leader Judith Collins, which led to him re-focusing on what he wanted to achieve as an MP.

Soon after that election defeat, Doocey was promoted to senior whip, which gave him a degree of authority and saw him working closely with the party leadership.

Following the election of Christopher Luxon as party leader last year, Doocey was promoted to the front bench at number eight.

He said he was now focused on representing the Waimakariri electorate ‘‘to the best of my ability’’ and becoming New Zealand’s first mental health minister.

‘‘I’m really fortunate to be able to represent Waimakariri, which is a fantastic place to live and work.

‘‘I love the ability to be in the outdoors with my young family, whether it’s enjoying the coastline or the rivers, and the ability to engage with locals on the ground.

‘‘When I pick up the groceries or drop the kids off at school, people want to stop and chat and it’s lovely to be part of the community.’’

Doocey said he would continue to advocate for 24 hour healthcare in Rangiora and for the Woodend Bypass.

‘‘For me, my focus has always been to serve everyone in the Waimakariri electorate, regardless of how they vote. In 2020, 9500 people split their vote, but voted for me to be their voice in Parliament which is humbling, so it’s important that I stay committed and focused and make sure that voice is heard.’’

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811 days ago

Selwyn CultureFest starts this weekend!

Selwyn District Council

Take your senses on a trip around the world! Enjoy performances, games, international stalls and food at Lincoln Domain this Sunday from 10am to 4pm.

The CultureFest celebrations continue at our two-week series of events. From dance classes, sport sessions, displays and art activities, there’s… View more
Take your senses on a trip around the world! Enjoy performances, games, international stalls and food at Lincoln Domain this Sunday from 10am to 4pm.

The CultureFest celebrations continue at our two-week series of events. From dance classes, sport sessions, displays and art activities, there’s plenty of events to keep you entertained.

Pick up a brochure from a Selwyn facility or check out the events online.
Find out more

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812 days ago

Ukraine Fundraiser: Exhibition Closing Party

Kathy from Rangiora

All are welcome to the closing party this Saturday 10th September at the Anglican Church Hall, 355 High St, 5-6pm. Artwork to view, cards for sale, a children's art corner, drinks and nibbles and spot prizes are available. Free entry (but gold coin donation suggested). All art is for sale by … View moreAll are welcome to the closing party this Saturday 10th September at the Anglican Church Hall, 355 High St, 5-6pm. Artwork to view, cards for sale, a children's art corner, drinks and nibbles and spot prizes are available. Free entry (but gold coin donation suggested). All art is for sale by writing down a bid and all proceeds go to Ukraine.

816 days ago

Looking for Second Hand/Cheap Planter Boxes!

Drew Ann from Rangiora

I'm wanting to attempt planting some veggies and herbs for Spring.
I don't want to spend a lot of money on planter boxes and was wondering if anyone out there had any that they were wanting to sell?
Thank you!

812 days ago

Four vie for Environment Canterbury's North Canterbury ward

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

Four candidates are vying to represent North Canterbury on the Canterbury regional council, Environment Canterbury (ECan).

Incumbent councillors Grant Edge and Claire McKay are being challenged by Kaikōura environmental planner Rachel Vaughan and Loburn farmer Shaun Lissington.

While the … View more
Four candidates are vying to represent North Canterbury on the Canterbury regional council, Environment Canterbury (ECan).

Incumbent councillors Grant Edge and Claire McKay are being challenged by Kaikōura environmental planner Rachel Vaughan and Loburn farmer Shaun Lissington.

While the other three candidates are Waimakariri-based, Vaughan is the only candidate from the northern part of the region.

She worked as a planner for the Kaikōura District Council for 16 years and has worked for both ECan and the West Coast Regional Council.

“I was born in Waimakariri, so I’m North Canterbury through and through,” Vaughan said.

“The north can be forgotten in terms of material resources, but Hurunui and Kaikōura are so important to the region.

“I think Grant has done really well ingoing round the whole constituency, but I think coming from up here will be really valuable.”

Resource Management Act reform and changes to freshwater and indigenous biodiversity management loomed as the biggest challenges for the regional council and these had major implications for Hurunui and Kaikōura, she said.

Lissington is a dryland dairy grazer and “a very proud farmer”.

“It’s a big ask trying to unseat sitting councillors, but I’m going to give it a crack.”

Financial and environmental sustainability were his priorities.

Rates affordability and prioritising spending needed to be the focus for the council going forward, he said.

“Regardless of people’s views on climate change, you only have to look at Nelson and Marlborough to see that it’s real and I don’t think we are doing enough to protect the environment.”

Two-term councillor, McKay said her priorities were ensuring communities had a voice and making sure the council was ‘‘fiscally responsible’’.

Navigating central government reform, ensuring a safe and reliable public transport service for the Greater Christchurch area and climate change were the biggest challenges facing the council, she said.

“As a region, we need to focus on how we adapt and mitigate the risks from climate impacts. Flooding, droughts, sea level rise and erosion are the key risks.”

Managing the region’s rivers and improving community resilience were other priorities.

Edge is seeking a second term on the council.

He said the potential long-term impacts of climate change, with rising sea level and the increased frequency of storm events, loomed on the horizon.

“Rivers have been confined by stopbanks, but as sea level rise it puts pressure on the rivers and the water comes back up the river, we need to think about more creative responses.

“For example, if you look at the Kaiapoi River, we’re facing a situation of it not being able to get out to sea. So, it’s a combination of protection and adaptation.”

The Greater Christchurch spatial plan would ask some “big questions” around property rights and where people can live in the future, Edge said.

“It will be quite stressful for some people.

“Where they once thought they could live, they will no longer be able to.”

Improving public transport was another issue for Waimakariri residents, with services like the MyWay service being trialled in Timaru a potential option to link communities and offer flexibility.

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