Opposition mounts to land swap that could create 1000 homes
A proposed land swap between a council and developers could come down to a decision between houses or birds.
Forest & Bird are calling on the Upper Hutt City Council to keep a 35-hectare block on Silverstream Spur as a wildlife corridor and reserve.
The council is due to consult this year on the proposed exchange of the spur for 134 ha block of nearby land in Pinehaven with the Guildford Timber Company. Guildford wants to build about 1000 new homes on the spur.
Forest & Bird Upper Hutt branch chairman Graham Bellamy said the spur and the opposite land at Keith George Memorial Park are the narrowest part of the Hutt Valley, and would be an ideal ecological corridor if it were replanted in native flora. Currently mostly planted out in pines, a replanted spur could also be used as a recreational reserve.
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?
-
76.3% Yes
-
22.4% No
-
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.
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?
-
82.1% Yes
-
15.2% No
-
2.7% Other - I'll share below