How do you keep your power bill at a minimum?
Hi neighbours - Taupō's Garry McCarthy has spent his working life in power stations, and has now applied his technical expertise to slashing his power bill.
His bill for July was $22.25, and was as low as $14 in summer. He installed eight PV panels on the roof, double-glazing, upgraded the log fire which has a wetback, and only uses LED energy efficient bulbs. He even bounces the light from a stand of small five watt lamps off the white ceiling instead of using ceiling lights.
What tips and tricks do you use to keep your power bill at a minimum?
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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77% Yes
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21.6% No
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1.4% 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.
Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
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82.1% Yes
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15.2% No
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2.7% Other - I'll share below