Upper Hutt set to update rules around brothels
A “harmful” bylaw that restricts the activities of sex workers is up for review more than a decade after concerns were raised over its legality.
In 2009, Upper Hutt City Council officers reported that the council's Brothels Bylaw was probably unlawful as it effectively stopped sex workers from operating in the city. Prostitution was decriminalised in 2003.
The council is considering a recommendation to revoke the bylaw and instead manage brothels through its District Plan, allowing them to operate under the same requirements as other businesses in the same area.
The bylaw has come under criticism from Prostitutes' Collective national co-ordinator Dame Catherine Healy, who said it most likely forced the city’s sex workers to trade illegally.
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?
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77% Yes
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21.6% No
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1.4% 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?
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82.1% Yes
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15.2% No
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2.7% Other - I'll share below