Swannanoa - Ohoka, Swannanoa

363 days ago

Criticisms of planning for future housing ‘unfair’ – Waimakariri mayor

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Criticism of the Waimakariri District Council’s housing growth planning is disappointing, mayor Dan Gordon says.

In a recommendation to decline a private plan change request to rezone Ohoka land, independent commissioners Cindy Robinson and Ros … View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Criticism of the Waimakariri District Council’s housing growth planning is disappointing, mayor Dan Gordon says.

In a recommendation to decline a private plan change request to rezone Ohoka land, independent commissioners Cindy Robinson and Ros Day-Cleavin were critical of the council for not making enough provision for housing growth.

But Gordon said the criticism was "unfair".

"I guess they are entitled to come to whatever conclusions they like, but I can assure you the council does have enough provision to meet short to long term land capacity."

Under the existing Waimakariri District Plan, there are 321 hectares available for development, which equated to capacity for about 5900 new houses.

Based on its growth model, which was prepared under the requirements set out in the National Policy Statement on Urban Development, the council projected demand for 5600 new houses over the next 10 years.

Under the Proposed District Plan, notified in November 2021, the council believed it had provision for rezoning of land to cater for more than 20,000 new houses.

The proposed District Plan has been incorporated into the Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan, which has just finished consultation.

The council put forward this evidence as part of its plan change assessment, with the applicant, Rolleston Industrial Developments Ltd, arguing the council’s model "overstated capacity’".

But Gordon said other councils, including the Selwyn District Council, used the same methodology.

"The model will always be subject to variables and changing market demands across a 30 year period."

Rolleston Industrial Developments Ltd also presented evidence suggesting land in northeast Kaiapoi, which has been included in the spatial plan, was unsuitable for development.

The land in question was deemed red zone by the government after the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes, with payouts offered to property owners to allow them to move on.

A rural zoning designation was then imposed by the Waimakariri District Council, which has been retained in the Proposed District Plan, with the council also designating it for possible future development.

Specific zoning outcomes were being considered as part of the District Plan Review, due to be completed in June next year.

The costs of developing the former red zone land were likely to be high, and a potential developer would need to be aware of the constraints specific to the area, a council spokesperson said.

"Any flooding or other environmental considerations would need to be accounted for in any development plans."

But developers have already expressed interest in former red zone land, including a consortium led by Kaiapoi developer Jedd Pearce, which is exploring the possibility of a marina development including apartment style living.

Gordon said the experience reinforced the need for a moratorium on private plan changes while a council is going through a District Plan Review.

"All of that consultation can be compromised by a private plan change."

Gordon raised his concerns with Outgoing Environment Minister David Parker last year and planned to raise the issue again when a new Environment Minister is appointed.

"Changes were signalled in the Resource Management Act reforms, but the incoming Government has signalled it will take a different direction, so we will wait to see what that is."

■ Public interest journalism funded through New Zealand on Air.

Image
363 days ago

Poll: What's on Your List?

The Team from NZ Compare

Black Friday is around the corner, and we'd love to know what's on your shopping list this year as the season of amazing deals kicks off!

Image
What's on Your List?
  • 16.4% Electronics: Computers, Phones, and Tablets
    16.4% Complete
  • 14.2% Household Appliances
    14.2% Complete
  • 39.9% Home and Garden
    39.9% Complete
  • 4.6% Toys and Hobbies
    4.6% Complete
  • 24.9% Special Treats for Yourself
    24.9% Complete
281 votes
366 days ago

Poll: Is it too early to put up your Christmas tree?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The shops are sporting tinsel and lights and our calendar's are already filling up with Christmas events. But is it too early to decorate your home?

Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to be excluded from the We Say You Say column of your local paper.

Image
Is it too early to put up your Christmas tree?
  • 19.2% Never too early, bring on Christmas!
    19.2% Complete
  • 63% Way too early, December 1st is the golden rule
    63% Complete
  • 8.9% I barely remember to put it up at all
    8.9% Complete
  • 9% I don’t celebrate Christmas so it doesn’t bother me!
    9% Complete
2331 votes
363 days ago

Last chance for tickets!

Heart Foundation

Final days to get your tickets for a chance to win this brand new, fully furnished home in the Coromandel’s beautiful Whitianga. Worth over $1 million and featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be lived in and loved by its… View moreFinal days to get your tickets for a chance to win this brand new, fully furnished home in the Coromandel’s beautiful Whitianga. Worth over $1 million and featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be lived in and loved by its new owners.

Make this property your permanent residence, a holiday home, rent it or even sell it – it could be all yours!

Be in to win by purchasing your tickets today – just $15 each.
Buy tickets now

364 days ago

This Saturday: The Great Neighbourly (online!) Garage Sale

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

It’s that time of year when we rummage in the garage for Christmas decorations and camping gear but instead find random items we forgot we owned. Perhaps it’s finally time to get rid of those and make some cash? Or pick up something you need?

The Great Neighbourly (online!) Garage Sale is … View more
It’s that time of year when we rummage in the garage for Christmas decorations and camping gear but instead find random items we forgot we owned. Perhaps it’s finally time to get rid of those and make some cash? Or pick up something you need?

The Great Neighbourly (online!) Garage Sale is this Saturday and we can't wait! The site will be brimming with both gently-loved goods and potential Christmas gifts.

To take part, simply upload a photo of your item(s) to Neighbourly’s Market section before Saturday. Make sure you come back on Saturday to browse the treasures listed from other members around your neighbourhood.

Image
364 days ago

Black Friday $200 Giveaway!

The Team from NZ Compare

What's the most amazing deal you've discovered on our website, and how much money did you save?

Share your great finds with us for a chance to WIN a $200 Prezzy card and keep your shopping spree going!

CLICK below to enter! Don't wait too long to participate; entry ends on … View more
What's the most amazing deal you've discovered on our website, and how much money did you save?

Share your great finds with us for a chance to WIN a $200 Prezzy card and keep your shopping spree going!

CLICK below to enter! Don't wait too long to participate; entry ends on 29/11!
Check out our Black Friday deal HERE: www.nzcompare.com...

Image
364 days ago

2023 ARTS CANTERBURY OPEN STUDIOS

Arts Canterbury

Nov 25/26 & Dec 2/3rd

The inaugural Arts Canterbury Open Studios will see more than 80 artists across 57 locations from Geraldine to Cheviot, Banks Peninsula to Sheffield and Oxford opening their doors for this exciting event.

Visit artists at their studios - see where they work, … View more
Nov 25/26 & Dec 2/3rd

The inaugural Arts Canterbury Open Studios will see more than 80 artists across 57 locations from Geraldine to Cheviot, Banks Peninsula to Sheffield and Oxford opening their doors for this exciting event.

Visit artists at their studios - see where they work, experience a unique insight into their day to day creative processes, enjoy demos and the opportunity to speak with them about their experiences as an artist.

Discover artists living in your own neighbourhood or plan a trip further afield to explore the creative community that is thriving throughout Canterbury.
Find out more

Image
365 days ago

Ryman Care - Your Free Guide

Charles Upham Retirement Village

Choosing the right care centre is an important decision. To help you, we’ve put together The Ryman Care Guide to highlight the care, kindness and comfort that our care centres provide.

At Ryman villages, we offer comprehensive care options customised to suit your needs.

Our assisted living… View more
Choosing the right care centre is an important decision. To help you, we’ve put together The Ryman Care Guide to highlight the care, kindness and comfort that our care centres provide.

At Ryman villages, we offer comprehensive care options customised to suit your needs.

Our assisted living apartments are in the heart of the village and include amenities like housekeeping and chef-prepared meals to make life easier.

Our villages all offer rest home care, and most also offer hospital and specialist dementia care.

You can relax, knowing if your needs change, we can continue looking after you.

Discover the kindness and comfort of Ryman care, request your free copy today.

Image
365 days ago

ANNOUNCING THE WINNER OF LIGHT UP DIWALI

The Team from NZ Compare

Light Up Diwali! We had over 340 incredible responses from all you Diwali enthusiasts who shared your power-saving tips for a chance to WIN $150 towards your power bills!

Now, the moment you've been waiting for – did you emerge as the lucky winner? CLICK below to find out!

Didn't… View more
Light Up Diwali! We had over 340 incredible responses from all you Diwali enthusiasts who shared your power-saving tips for a chance to WIN $150 towards your power bills!

Now, the moment you've been waiting for – did you emerge as the lucky winner? CLICK below to find out!

Didn't WIN this time? Don't worry! Stay connected with NZ Compare to keep informed about future competitions, deals, and tips!

We're here to brighten up your Diwali and your budget! CLICK HERE to discover more: www.powercompare.co.nz...

Image
365 days ago

Embrace adventure, we'll mow the lawns...

The Team from Ryman Healthcare

Embracing adventure is made easy with our lock-and-leave-style living. We keep your home secure and well-maintained while you take off to explore what brings you joy.

Premila and Ebbie love the freedom of their Ryman lifestyle. The pair take off on holiday whenever they want and return home to … View more
Embracing adventure is made easy with our lock-and-leave-style living. We keep your home secure and well-maintained while you take off to explore what brings you joy.

Premila and Ebbie love the freedom of their Ryman lifestyle. The pair take off on holiday whenever they want and return home to freshly mowed lawns, watered gardens, clean windows, and a safe village.

Discover more about the freedom of living in a Ryman village.
Find out more

Image
365 days ago

Does your pet have what it takes to melt the hearts of the nation?

NZ Pets Election

The Great NZ Pet Election has launched and we’re on the hunt for NZ’s best pet!

Pick up a copy of The Press to find out how to nominate your companion then check back every day to see if they are selected as a daily winner! All daily winners will receive a $50 pet store voucher and will … View more
The Great NZ Pet Election has launched and we’re on the hunt for NZ’s best pet!

Pick up a copy of The Press to find out how to nominate your companion then check back every day to see if they are selected as a daily winner! All daily winners will receive a $50 pet store voucher and will qualify towards the grand pet election prize of a $1,000 pet store voucher. Find out more here.

Let the great NZ Pet Election begin!

The team at The Press
Find out more

Image
366 days ago

Box full of watches

Bill from Oxford

A box full of watches from the1950's though to the year 2000 odd, some go some don't .SO is this a load of old junk ? or a small treasure box of goodies, Your welcome to come and have a look and make me a cash offer
Phone Bill on 027 4250998

Negotiable

H
366 days ago

mannequinn lady part body

Heather from Belfast

lady mannequinn part body, very light, thin plastic type, can hang on wall or paint for art piece, pickup Northwood, Belfast

Price: $25

Image
366 days ago

2 Smart watches never used

Bill from Oxford

2 different smart watches have taken out of the box , charged them and tried on but were not to my liking charge wire / connector for each one .One has instructions but mostly in Chinese
$75.00 for both (cost over $150 from China
Phone Bill 027 4250998 or message me pick up in Oxford

Price: $75

366 days ago

BLACK AND DECKER 18 volt cordless drill and free weedeater

Bill from Oxford

Black and decker drill in very good working condition with battery and charger
Black and decker weed eater works well 18 volt so share battery with drill ,free with drill
Phone Bill 027 4250998 or message me pick up is from Oxford

Price: $20

Top