Railway Crossing Creating Multiple Pile-ups
The railway crossing just south of the Upper Hutt Railway Station is creating long queues of cars more often through the day than ever previously - and it is just going to get worse and worse. It is the biggest traffic snarl in Upper Hutt.
To compound the problem it is preceded closely by a roundabout on its eastern side and this is also increasing in traffic from all sides so that vehicles are piling up on all four sides when traffic is halted because of trains which maybe minutes from actually passing through the crossing. Vehicles going through the motions of travelling around the roundabout simply prevent other traffic from moving on even if they are not heading to the railway crossing.
Trains have become more frequent and the promise is that frequency will increase too through the double tracks so very soon to be operational and the increase usage of public transport.
This railway crossing needs to be replaced by either an overhead traffic bridge or an underpass. Let's make it urgent so that it actually starts to happen within the next 5 years.
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.
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
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.