Let's talk about Tauranga's 10-year plan
Join the conversation about our 10-year plan – have we got it right?
In a nutshell the plan is focused on investing in the future, doing the mahi, and making things fairer along the way.
One of our key considerations is to keep costs and rates increase as low as possible by delaying or deferring some projects, while making sure everyone is paying a fair share to help ease the burden on general ratepayers.
It’s a balancing act between the investment our city needs today and in the future, and what we can afford in the face of increasing delivery costs, rising interest rates and the cost of living.
We know it’s a hard time to talk about the investment the city needs and we want to know if you think we have that balance right.
In particular, we’re keen for your thoughts on:
• Our infrastructure – should industrial ratepayers pay more?
• Key infrastructure for growth – who should pay the shortfall?
• Reducing traffic congestion – switch lanes and try a different solution?
• Development in the city – will incentives help us grow our city?
• Sports fields and boat ramps – should users pay to play?
• A community stadium – this decade, the next or never?
• Car parking buildings – sell up, or park the idea?
Find out more and share your thoughts at: letstalk.tauranga.govt.nz/longtermplan
$100 Petrol vouchers go to...
Congratulations to this week's winners:
Sam Fuller from Red Beach
Johanna Mortis from Saint Clair
Matthew Hardy from Kelburn
Anne Fahey from Woolston
They've each won a $100 petrol voucher.
If you're a winner, get in touch here.
Not a winner this week? There's always next week!
Riddle Me This: Can You Outsmart Today’s Puzzle?
I belong in December, but not in any other month. I am not a holiday. What am I?
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
Want to stop seeing riddles in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.
Six tips for improving security around your home
1) Improve outdoor lighting
Ensure that streets, driveways, and front yards are well-lit. Motion-sensor lights around homes deter trespassers by reducing hiding spots and illuminating their movements.
2) Trim your trees
Overgrown shrubs and trees provide cover for intruders. Keeping them well-trimmed around windows and doors improves visibility and reduces potential hiding spots.
3) Secure Entry Points
Ensure doors, windows, and gates are always closed when you are away from the house. Upgrade to more secure locks, deadbolts, or even smart locks for added protection.
4) Add a security camera
Place security cameras in the main entry points to your home. Doorbell cameras are also relatively cheap and a great way to keep track of who is visiting your home when you aren't there.
5) Start a Neighborhood Watch Program
You could reach out to members on Neighbourly to form a group of neighbors who can regularly keep an eye out for suspicious activity and report it. You could also check with Neighbourhood Support to see what is existing in your area.
6) Introduce yourself to your neighbours
The closer you are to your neighbors, the more likely they’ll notice when something unusual or suspicious is happening around your property
Feel free to share anything that you do around your area to deter crime.