Farmers concerned thieves are casing their properties from the sky
Rural residents fear there may be a link between rogue drones spotted at their properties and burglaries in the same areas.
A police spokesperson confirmed they were investigating reported drone incidents in rural North Canterbury.
Swannanoa contract milker Wayne Pritchard was not taking any chances though when he saw a drone hovering above a dairy shed on Monday night.
A second drone was spotted buzzing around the farm owner’s house, and three suspicious vehicles were seen nearby.
Pritchard and the farm owner reported the sightings and vehicle registration numbers to the police. Many other had residents reporting seeing drones on their properties in the area.
Under New Zealand drone privacy laws, operators must have the consent of the property owner or person in charge of the area they want to fly. That consent also enables them to fly above the neighbouring property.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84% Yes
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14.7% No
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1.3% Other - I'll share below
Spring gardening tips
Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcare’s Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. You’ll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and let’s dig in.
Click read more for more information.
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.