Upper Hutt Mad About Playgrounds and Play Money
UHCC have spend ratepayers money on children's and young person's playgrounds like it grows on plastic.
I would estimate in the last two-three years, the Council has spent five million dollars on upgrading Upper Hutt children's playgrounds. Some of it a hit or miss as to the popularity of some playground items.
But the Council won't spend a dollar on a single small dog playground even though most of the funding for it could be channelled from exorbitant dog registration fees and other exorbitant fees related to dogs.
A small dog playground at Trentham Memorial Park with permanent agility circuit-type implements/obstacles would cost probably only several thousands of dollars. And there are many more people with dogs who visit TMP weekly than there are children and their caregivers visit the TMP children's playground.
Upper Hutt doesn't need a devoted, separate dog park for various reasons and should not entertain such a development but a small playground with permanently installed weather proof tunnels, hurdles, a-frame, bridge, dog walking plank, hoop would be a welcomed fun amenity for some dogs and their handlers. The Christchurch greater area has nine of them.
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.
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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.