Most Sought After City To Rent A House
That little (in population) modest city called Upper Hutt is now been awarded whatever for being the most expensive city or town in NZ to rent a house/rental domestic accommodation.
Unbelievable yes but there you are.
What has gone on to create this monster of unaffordability called Upper Hutt that not many years ago, people wanted a name change because of a reputation of criminality?
Not much as far as I can see. Maybe a whole lot of factors that somehow add up.
Has climate change made UH less icy cold. Has new and improved amenities (Brewtown etc) given UH a breath of fresh air. Has working from home made travel to Wellington and Lower Hutt and over the Haywards less having to frequent. Has more job opportunities locally given a boost. Has new housing raised the bar for renting ( a brand new tightly sized two storied 2 or 3 bedroom apartment style house in the Wallaceville Estate is going for $700 a week rent, $36,000 per annum). Has the many open spaces of UH getting recognition. Has UH as a dog ownership haven, being recognised. Has retailing in UH turning a corner, gaining recognition. Has our close proximity to the Wairarapa - Marinborough in particular - being a factor.
Goodbye Auckland, hello Upper Hutt - for the time being.
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.