Swannanoa - Ohoka, Swannanoa

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142 days ago

Canterbury councils team up to tackle climate change

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

North Canterbury’s three councils have thrown their weight behind a plan to tackle climate change.

The Waimakariri, Hurunui and Kaikōura councils have endorsed the Canterbury Mayoral Forum’s draft climate partnership plan.

Waimakariri mayor Dan … View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

North Canterbury’s three councils have thrown their weight behind a plan to tackle climate change.

The Waimakariri, Hurunui and Kaikōura councils have endorsed the Canterbury Mayoral Forum’s draft climate partnership plan.

Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon, who chairs the mayoral forum’s climate action reference group, said by working together larger councils could help the smaller councils.

‘‘Climate change doesn’t recognise territorial boundaries, so we need something that works across Canterbury.

‘‘Christchurch is further ahead, which is fantastic, and in Waimakariri we are developing our work programme.’’

The Waimakariri District Council adopted its natural environment strategy at a council meeting last week, after completing its consultation alongside the long-term plan.

The 30-year strategy aims to protect the district’s natural ecosystems and its special indigenous biodiversity.

Gordon said the mayors hoped to officially launch the Canterbury Climate Partnership Plan later this year and he planned to invite Climate Change Minister Simon Watts.

‘‘I have raised with the Minister about attending a public launch to provide some inspiration of what can be done in other regions.’’

The plan sets out 10 climate actions to help the 11 Canterbury councils prepare for ‘‘a sustainable future’’.

The actions included understanding climate risks and improving resilience, reducing emissions, adaptation planning, nature-based solutions, education and advocacy, supporting papatipu rūnanga, integrating climate change considerations into council processes, identifying co-funding opportunities, monitoring and evaluation, and implementation.

Hurunui mayor Marie Black said her council had endorsed the plan in principle.

The Hurunui District Council was represented on the climate action reference group by Councillor Dave Hislop, a dairy farmer.

‘‘Dave brings a pragmatic approach and he is grounded in farming principles,’’ Black said.

Hislop and other rural councillors had questioned aspects of the plan and science behind it, before giving their support, chief executive Hamish Dobbie said.

‘‘I think it has been through a robust process and councillors of all persuasions have been involved.

‘‘We might not 100% agree with everything, but it is important Canterbury stands together and is seen to be working together.

‘‘There is a desire for us to thrive and do well and loom large in the consciousness of the Government and the Canterbury Climate Partnership Plan is just one of those things which we are working on collectively.’’

Kaikōura District Council chief executive Will Doughty said his council had endorsed the plan and budgeted for its contribution over the next three years in its long-term plan.

‘‘We believe it is a great initiative to be looking at the issues from a wider regional perspective.

‘‘We are very keen to see some tangible outcomes from the climate actions.’’

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

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142 days ago

Win a brand-new home!

Heart Foundation Lottery

For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in gorgeous Mangawhai, worth almost $1.4 million dollars.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by its new … View more
For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in gorgeous Mangawhai, worth almost $1.4 million dollars.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by its new owner.

Make this coastal property your permanent residence, a holiday home, a rental, or you can simply sell it!

Get your tickets today at heartlottery.org.nz.
Find out more

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143 days ago

Hang it up

The Team from Resene ColorShop Rangiora

Magnetic frames make it easy to change what’s on display – whether it’s wallpaper or works of art. Paint yours in Resene testpots to contrast what's on display and complement your home's décor.

Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.

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143 days ago

26" lady's bicycle for sale

Briony from Rangiora

Bicycle in good condition. 8 speed. Included - extra padded seat, front carrier basket, side mirror, helmet, hi-viz vest. Pick up Rangiora. Ph or text 021 084 37041. DO NOT use messenger to contact me. Thank you.

Price: $100

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143 days ago

Magnesium Chloride Spray for the Whole Family

Rae from Room To Heal

Hello Neighbours

I have two different blends of Magnesium Chloride Spray. One can be used by the whole family the other has Boron added to help anyone suffering from arthritis pain. The most recent research into the effectiveness of Boron for arthritis shows a dramatic reduction in symptoms has … View more
Hello Neighbours

I have two different blends of Magnesium Chloride Spray. One can be used by the whole family the other has Boron added to help anyone suffering from arthritis pain. The most recent research into the effectiveness of Boron for arthritis shows a dramatic reduction in symptoms has been achieved within 3 – 6 months.

Magnesium is essential for life, but most people are not getting enough and aging much faster than necessary, both inside and out.

Pain, arthritis and osteoporosis are not caused by aging. We are NOT destined to grow old in pain. Magnesium is believed to be a natural pain receptor blocker, making it the perfect first go-to when muscles, nerves, connective tissue and bones need any kind of support.

Click on the Read More for information on each of the Magnesium Chloride Sprays
1st one - For the Whole Family
2nd one - Arthritis Pain

Pickup from Room to Heal or Courier Service available

Room to Heal in Rangiora
Reiki Practitioner
Therapeutic Massage Therapist
Bioptron Medical Hyperlight Light Therapist
Love and Light
Rae

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143 days ago

Lampshade

Pauline from Rangiora

Good condition, as photo I have used on a free standing lamp and as a shade on ceiling nice pattern display on ceiling pm me or text 0212095513

Price: $10

144 days ago

Window Cleaner - Required ASAP

Rae from Rangiora

Looking for a window cleaner to do inside and outside of a 3 bedroom home in Burnt Hill.

Please text Rae 0273 621 601

150 days ago

Why are ghosts such bad liars?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

...You can see right through them.

No, we haven't lost the plot! July 1st is International Joke Day and because laughter is good for your body, we want to get involved.

So, go on, jokers! Share your best joke below...

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144 days ago

Cat Paw Leggings

Elisabeth from Rangiora

I have two: 3XL and 5XL. $5 each.

Price: $5

144 days ago

Family Friendly Service and Discussion

Jeneane Hobby from Ashley Community Church Incorporated

Note change of time from summer start time.

Next family-friendly monthly service - Sunday, 4 August at the Ashley Community Church. With shorter days the gathering will start at 3.30 pm with a shared afternoon tea. Remember to bring something to share!

Also remember to go before you come as … View more
Note change of time from summer start time.

Next family-friendly monthly service - Sunday, 4 August at the Ashley Community Church. With shorter days the gathering will start at 3.30 pm with a shared afternoon tea. Remember to bring something to share!

Also remember to go before you come as there is no toilet on site.

Enquiries to Paul or Lesley, Ph 021 140 2074
39 Canterbury St, Ashley.

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146 days ago

Community wins battle against new landfill

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

A community leader is relieved a proposed landfill near Oxford, in North Canterbury, won't go ahead.

‘‘We are pleased and relieved for the community that the proposal to create a landfill in the existing Woodstock Quarry site has been … View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

A community leader is relieved a proposed landfill near Oxford, in North Canterbury, won't go ahead.

‘‘We are pleased and relieved for the community that the proposal to create a landfill in the existing Woodstock Quarry site has been declined,’’ Thomas Robson (pictured), the Oxford-Ohoka Community Board deputy chairperson, says.

‘‘There was overwhelming community opposition to this proposal due to the unsuitability of the site and the potential damage to the environment.

‘‘This was evident by the huge number of submissions against the proposal, and the amount of negative feedback the community board received.’’

The board was among those who submitted against the proposal, citing traffic, fire safety, dust, operational logistics and amenity effects.

Hearing Commissioners declined an application from Woodstock Quarries Ltd to create a landfill and expand an existing quarry site last week, concluding the applicant provided ‘‘insufficient information’’.

The Oxford-Ohoka Community Board was among those who submitted against the proposal.

Woodstock Quarries Ltd submitted resource consent applications in 2021 with Environment Canterbury (ECan) and the Waimakariri District Council to develop a landfill at 513 Trigg Rd, View Hill, near Oxford.

ECan consent planning manager Aurora Grant said the commissioners concluded the project posed ‘‘unacceptable risk to nationally and regionally significant biodiversity and cultural values’’.

‘‘The decision is consistent with the Environment Canterbury officer’s recommendation, and the position of the Oxford-Ohoka Community Board and Te Ngāi Tūāhuriri Rūnanga.’’

During the consent process, opponents questioned the need for another landfill when the Kate Valley Landfill near Waipara, in North Canterbury had capacity and the Burwood Resource Recovery Park landfill in Christchurch was closed in 2019 due to a lack of use.

In its submission, the Oxford-Ohoka Community Board raised concerns about traffic, fire safety, dust, operational logistics and amenity effects.
In all, 397 submissions were received, with 395 in opposition.

The hearing process took more than 12 months, with 11 joint witness statements, Grant said.

Protestors interrupted a hearing in the Oxford Town Hall in July last year and were verbally abusive towards staff and commissioners.

ECan was forced to temporarily suspend the hearing, which resumed in Oxford the following month

The applicant and submitters can appeal the decision to the Environment Court within 15 working days of receiving the decision.

Woodstock Quarries Ltd director Darryn Shepherd declined to comment.

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

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146 days ago

A message from Christchurch Police

The Team from Canterbury Police

Christchurch Police are urging the community to ensure children are properly restrained following a concerning vehicle stop in Harewood. About 11:30am yesterday, Thursday 4 July, Police stopped a vehicle travelling almost 20kmh above the speed limit on Harewood Road.

When Police came to the … View more
Christchurch Police are urging the community to ensure children are properly restrained following a concerning vehicle stop in Harewood. About 11:30am yesterday, Thursday 4 July, Police stopped a vehicle travelling almost 20kmh above the speed limit on Harewood Road.

When Police came to the window, four children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years were seen in the back and front passenger seats with their car seats incorrectly fitted.
The driver was issued a formal warning and an infringement notice. Police are working with the driver around the correct way to secure seats, secure the children, and making sure they have the right seat for their size.

Inspector Ash Tabb says, ensuring car seats are properly attached and kids are properly restrained is essential in reducing the risk of serious injuries or worse if a crash occurs.
“I am glad this didn’t result in more serious consequences; not only were the kids not properly restrained, but the vehicle was also travelling almost 20 kmh above the speed limit, two of four known crash and serious crash contributors, labelled RIDS (Restraints, Impairment, Distraction, and Speed).

"We understand parents, and caregivers may not know what the right seat is, or how to attach it correctly for your child. There are several services available to assist people with this, including child restraint technicians who can provide advice on what restraint may be needed. They can also help you fit them to your vehicle,” Inspector Tabb says.

Check out Whānau Āwhina Plunket website here.
Or the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi website here.

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146 days ago

Minister pushes ahead with Woodend Bypass, toll considered

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Transport Minister Simeon Brown has given the green light for planning to begin on the long-awaited Woodend Bypass, with a toll among the funding options being considered.

Brown joined Waimakariri MP Matt Doocey at the Pegasus Roundabout in Canterbury … View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Transport Minister Simeon Brown has given the green light for planning to begin on the long-awaited Woodend Bypass, with a toll among the funding options being considered.

Brown joined Waimakariri MP Matt Doocey at the Pegasus Roundabout in Canterbury on Friday to announce planning will begin on the Belfast to Pegasus Motorway, which includes the bypass on State Highway 1.

It was one of the first seven projects in the Roads of National Significance signalled in the Government Policy Statement.

The announcement allows NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi to begin planning the route, design work and costing the project.

‘‘It will help boost productivity and facilitate the faster movement of freight across New Zealand,’’ Brown said.

‘‘Locally, the Woodend Bypass is important for Christchurch, Canterbury and the South Island.

‘‘This project has been talked about for too long and we going to get it back on track.’’

State Highway 1 currently cuts through the town of Woodend, slowing traffic and raising safety concerns.

Brown said more details would be included in the National Land Transport Plan, which is due to be released in September.

The agency has been asked to consider all funding options, including a road toll and public-private partnerships.

‘‘I am expecting tolling assessments to be made for every Road of National Significance,’’ Brown said.

‘‘If tolling is what is recommended, we will do it.’’

Waka Kotahi regional relationships director James Caygill said the agency had been waiting for the minister’s announcement.

‘‘He has told us to ‘get on with it’ and now we can go out and talk to landowners, and go out and re-look at the route and see what has changed in the last 10 years.

‘‘Ravenswood wasn’t here 10 years ago and there has been a lot of growth.’’

A route to the east of Woodend, from Pine Acres, north of Kaiapoi, to the Pegasus Roundabout was designated for the Woodend Bypass by Waka Kotahi in 2014.

Caygill said the Pegasus Roundabout would need to be replaced and the agency was aware of two shingle pit lakes near Pine Acres, which would all be considered in the design process.

A pedestrian and cycle underpass between Pegasus and Ravenswood, and proposed cycle ways linking Woodend with Pegasus and Kaiapoi were also ‘‘on the table’’, he said.

Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon said the Woodend Bypass was a priority for the district.

‘‘The minister’s message is very clear. We welcome that direction and we want to see it completed.

‘‘The community has been waiting for a long time.

‘‘This is probably the largest roading project our district has seen.’’

Gordon said the council looked forward to seeing the detailed design and was ready to partner with Waka Kotahi to see the bypass delivered.

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

155 days ago

Kaitlyn

The Team from Humans of Christchurch Ōtautahi

"I've been doing compost workshops for the community for four years. But I guess composting for like the past eight years.

It originally started because we moved and our house came with the compost bin. I was curious to know what it was, so we started composting, but like, just … View more
"I've been doing compost workshops for the community for four years. But I guess composting for like the past eight years.

It originally started because we moved and our house came with the compost bin. I was curious to know what it was, so we started composting, but like, just chucking stuff and not really knowing what we're doing. Then pumpkins and potatoes just started growing out of it.
I got into gardening during lockdown. My French teacher gave me some broccoli seeds, and I grew those and then obviously, you go through the journey of discovering soils are really important to grow healthy kai.

When I was in Year 13, I was volunteering at an orchard and I ran my first compost workshop. It was pretty cool. And then people just wanted me to keep doing them. Me and my sister got an internship at the Council doing compost education for the community but my compost passion actually came from hearing about Kaicycle's composting programme in Wellington. I want to set up a composting business like that.

Me and my sister started Compost Club at Uni last year. Our main aim is to make composting more accessible and commonplace on campus, especially for students because we find that students want to compost, but they don't know how or they don’t have the resources. We go to their flat and we run a mini workshop for them, come back three weeks later, check out how it's going.

I've taken a break this semester from burnout.

I just find it hard to say no, you get to that position where your body makes you say, no, I can't do any more. I feel like in the environmental space people burn out a lot. I guess why I've struggled with saying no, is because I feel like I can change the world. But no, I can't! We need everyone to do their little part to make a change.

I'm really passionate about cooking and growing healthy kai and having a slow life. And I haven't done that yet. But I'm working towards it."

- Kaitlyn

View more stories, or nominate someone: @humansofchch
www.humansofchch.org...

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146 days ago

Plywood pegboard

Resene National Head Office

Easily change the height and layout of the shelves any time as your plants grow or the items you want to showcase change with this handy pegboard finished in Resene Colorwood Whitewash.

Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.
Find out more

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