Waimakariri residents want council to ‘opt-out’ of the Government’s three waters reform
Thousands of Waimakariri residents want the council to opt out of the Government’s three waters reform, with 95 per cent who responded to a survey on the issue saying they wanted services to be managed locally.
Under the proposed reforms, control of drinking water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure would transfer from 67 councils nationwide to four new independent entities.
One entity would cover 21 South Island councils, including all of Canterbury.
Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon said quality drinking water and better environmental outcomes were essential, and the council did not accept the premise there was only one way to achieve this.
The Waimakariri District Council received more than 3800 submissions and just over 95 per cent stated they wanted the council to “opt-out” of the proposed reform.
Respondents wanted the three waters service “to be managed, built and operated locally by people who understand our area”.
The council will decide on the formal response that will be given to the Government at a meeting on September 28.
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.
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
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.
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