893 days ago

GET OUT OF PETONE

Michael from Trentham

A bad sign is when it seems obvious that insurance companies are going to raise their premiums for property insurance beyond the affordability of the average homeowner or retailer - and even suspend insurance cover.

So this is what is forecasted for a large majority of the Lower Hutt sea side, low-lying suburb of Petone as well as areas heading towards Eastborne.

The issue is climate change which is now well embedded and will see a rising sea and excessive rainfall during year upon year.

As well there is the sinking of the land to contend with.

And there is little that the local authority or the residents of the affected areas can do to barricade against the real prospect of submerging properties within the next 15 years rain-wise and 30 years sea-wise.

Jackson Street with its huge retail presence including around 80 eateries and housing beyond Jackson Street in both directions will be swept away or uninhabitable and all either uninsurable or unaffordability of being insured.

I have friends who help design the only new residential home in Jackson Street in maybe 60 years. And their flash two storey modern home of some 3 years will be mainly useless against the torrent of flooding.

I spent all my teenage years living in Petone, played rugby for Petone and later was for a time connected with the Petone Athletic Club and worked in Petone for two different companies. But my advice is for those living there right now is to get out and live somewhere less likely to be severely waterlogged. You can sell at the market price right now to many silly or naive people unaware or unperturbed by what the future has in store.

More messages from your neighbours
1 hour ago

Don't overthink this riddle...

Ashleigh from The Neighbourly Riddler

I have a silver sole
but no feet,
I make my living by bringing the heat.
What am I?

Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!

Want to stop seeing these in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.

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8 days ago

Poll: Does a savoury scone require cheese on top, or folded inside?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Help settle the great kiwi debate ... cheese on top, or folded inside?

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Does a savoury scone require cheese on top, or folded inside?
  • 76.4% Inside!
    76.4% Complete
  • 23.6% On top!
    23.6% Complete
1201 votes
15 hours ago

We're taking the bus!

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The number of Wellingtonians taking the bus and train rose by 3% last week compared to the same time last year, according to Metlink.

Not surprising given petrol prices at the moment. But if you're considering giving up your car commute for a leisurely bus ride in the mornings, it would be worth it.

It's about to get even easier: In April, e-pay will be launched, meaning you can tap on with your credit cards as well as smart devices.

It's better on the environment too: With most Metlink trains running on electricity, 25% of the bus fleet being EV’s and the Ika Rere electric ferry, Metlink is able to move more people using less fuel than any other transport option.

With fuel costs so high, it's a good idea to jump on board if you can. If you've become a public transport convert recently, how have you found it?

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