Waikuku & Waikuku Beach, Waikuku

Got some bits to give away?

Got some bits to give away?

Clear our that garage and pop it on Neighbourly Market for free

86 days ago

Rapid roll growth puts pressure on Canterbury schools

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Rapid growth at North Canterbury schools due to new housing developments is set to put pressure on classroom space.

Kaiapoi and Rangiora high schools have seen their roll size jump, while Amuri Area School is hoping some long-awaited new classrooms will… View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Rapid growth at North Canterbury schools due to new housing developments is set to put pressure on classroom space.

Kaiapoi and Rangiora high schools have seen their roll size jump, while Amuri Area School is hoping some long-awaited new classrooms will be built this year.

Principal Jason Reid said he expected Kaiapoi High School’s roll to pass 1050 for the first time this year, up from 450 in 2012.

A redevelopment of the school in 2018 boosted its maximum roll to 1100.

Reid said he has started speaking with the Ministry of Education about stage 2 of the development, which would allow for another building.

‘‘We have the land, so the key is what does it look like.

‘‘It needs to be carefully managed because we need to look long term and not just for the next five years.’’

Local primary schools, including Woodend School and Te Kura o Tuahiwi, have also experienced rapid growth as more houses are developed in Woodend, Ravenswood and Pegasus.

Kaiapoi’s population of 13,000 is projected to grow by 52% over the next 30 years, based on Stats NZ’s high growth scenario.

However, Reid said the school did not want to lose its community feel.

The school had just 450 students when Reid’s predecessor Bruce Kearney arrived in Kaiapoi in 2012

Kearney approached the Ministry of Education about the need for the new building, before moving to Rangiora High School nearly two years ago.

Ministry of Education Te Tai Runga (south) Hautū (leader) Nancy Bell said Kaiapoi High School has planned for a future capacity of 1800 students.

‘‘Roll growth would only be considered when there are increased numbers of in-zone students.’’

Rangiora High School’s roll was set to top 1750 students this year, including 400 year 9s and up up from 1660 last year.

The school’s roll was nearly 1800 in 2016, before dropping back to 1600 the following year, after the board of trustees was replaced by a commissioner.

‘‘It is not just about population growth. It shows people value what their local school has to offer and that hasn’t always been the case,’’ Kearney said.

He feared the Ministry of Education may reduce Kaiapoi’s zone, with Rangiora High School picking up more students.

Bell said Rangiora High School has a permanent capacity for 1740 students, with temporary onsite space for 1940 students.

‘‘We continue to monitor the rolls and capacity of all schools in the catchment to manage the network, with no current plan for a new primary or high school in the Waimakariri district.’’

Rangiora High School uses old prefab classrooms across the road, which were owned by the board of trustees.

But presiding member Simon Green said the board was planning to decommission the old prefabs because it wanted to have the entire campus on one site.

He said the board had not spent much time discussing roll growth, with the immediate focus on building a new cultural and learning centre, installing walls in the open plan Rakahuri building, a revamp of the school farm and planning a new performing arts centre.

Amuri Area School principal Matt Barlow (pictured) said his school roll finished last year on 375 students and he predicted more growth this year.

Planning for new classrooms began under his predecessor James Griggs, but the Ministry of Education had yet to set a date for the build.

‘‘Whether you are at 1750 or 350, the challenges are similar and you can only control what your site and your staffing allows,’’ Barlow said.

He said the growth was due to the booming tourism in Hanmer Springs and the influx of migrant workers on local dairy farms.

Kaiapoi High School’s board of trustees was contacted for comment.

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

86 days ago

Wedding dresses old and new on show

Charles Upham Retirement Village

This week, we're celebrating love in all its forms, with some of our residents celebrating by sharing cherished memories, including their wedding dresses and the beautiful stories behind them.

An array of wedding dresses, ranging from the modern to the traditional, were on display along … View more
This week, we're celebrating love in all its forms, with some of our residents celebrating by sharing cherished memories, including their wedding dresses and the beautiful stories behind them.

An array of wedding dresses, ranging from the modern to the traditional, were on display along with dozens of amazing wedding photos dating back to the 1800s in a nod to Valentine’s Day.

“With it being Valentine’s Day this week, we wanted something that would be inclusive of all the residents, those who are still lucky enough to have their partners but also those sharing happy memories of those that they have lost.”

Click read more for the full story.

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86 days ago

Fresh Nectarines last 3 days

Sue from Kaiapoi

sold at gate in $5 bags 1 and half kgs
last 3 days
021 2222 838
Pick up Bramleys Road turn off lineside road 2nd house on left

Price: $5

86 days ago

Is your furry friend protected?

Southern Cross from Neighbourly Nz

The Pet Life.

It’s the life you share with your pet, and the life they share with you. We believe the pet life’s a life worth protecting.

Which is why we are dedicated to helping pets live longer, healthier and happier lives every day.

We’re proudly born and bred in New Zealand, and … View more
The Pet Life.

It’s the life you share with your pet, and the life they share with you. We believe the pet life’s a life worth protecting.

Which is why we are dedicated to helping pets live longer, healthier and happier lives every day.

We’re proudly born and bred in New Zealand, and are equally proud to partner with the NZ Veterinary Association and Pet Refuge. Just two ways we’re there to support the Pet Life community.

Protect the Pet Life.
Learn more now

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93 days ago

Council questions ‘impossible’ drinking water standards

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Chlorine exemption applications have been withdrawn by the Waimakariri District Council due to ‘‘impossible’’ drinking water standards.

Mayor Dan Gordon said he has raised concerns with Local Government Minister Simeon Brown about the Water … View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Chlorine exemption applications have been withdrawn by the Waimakariri District Council due to ‘‘impossible’’ drinking water standards.

Mayor Dan Gordon said he has raised concerns with Local Government Minister Simeon Brown about the Water Services Act’s drinking water standards, which are imposed by national regulator Taumata Arowai.

‘‘In my conversation with the new minister I raised that it is almost impossible to achieve an exemption under the new standards, so maybe it is something that needs to reviewed,’’ he said at a council meeting on Wednesday.

The council voted to withdraw its applications for chlorine exemptions for the Rangiora, Kaiapoi, Oxford urban and Waikuku Beach drinking water supplies for now, and to write to Brown asking him to reconsider the standards.

An application for the Cust water supply was declined last year, while the Woodend-Pegasus exemption application is still being considered.

Three Waters manager Kalley Simpson said the council would have a better idea of what was needed to achieve chlorine exemptions once it had received feedback from the Woodend-Pegasus application.

‘‘We believe our applications in their current form would be declined, based on the Cust decision, so we need to withdraw and look to resubmit when we have done the necessary work.’’

He said initial estimates suggested it would cost up to $100 million to bring the six urban supplies up to an acceptable standard to receive a chlorine exemption.

The Rakaia Huts drinking water supply in the Selwyn district has received a chlorine exemption for five years, with conditions, Simpson said.

The council opted to chlorinate all of its drinking water supplies last year, after the Cust application was declined.

But Gordon said the council had not given up.

The Waimakariri district was one of the last to chlorinate its water supplies and the had long believed it had ‘‘gold standard’’ drinking water, which was fed to deep underground aquifers, Gordon said.

‘‘We have pushed back as strongly as we could and it is clear we are going to have to do more work to comply, but we are not giving up.’’

‘‘I don’t like the position we are in, but we are obligated to follow the law.

‘‘In order to achieve exemptions, the bar is incredibly high, so we need the new Government to consider whether that is acceptable.’’

Health experts recommend chlorine to kill harmful natural organisms that can grow in water, such as bacteria, viruses and parasites, and to make it safe to drink.

World Health Organisation studies show the small amount of chlorine needed to treat drinking water is safe for people.

Chlorine added when the water leaves the treatment plant continues to protect the drinking water by killing bacteria that enters the system, Taumata Arowai says on its website.

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

88 days ago

Troubleshoot Your Broadband: Tips & Savings!

The Team from NZ Compare

Experiencing broadband troubles? Our recent neighbourly poll reveals the top two issues: unstable connections and pricey bills!

Don't worry! Check out our latest article for expert tips to solve these issues.

PLUS, use Broadband Compare to compare NZ's best broadband deals & … View more
Experiencing broadband troubles? Our recent neighbourly poll reveals the top two issues: unstable connections and pricey bills!

Don't worry! Check out our latest article for expert tips to solve these issues.

PLUS, use Broadband Compare to compare NZ's best broadband deals & save up to $300/year. Enjoy smoother internet while keeping cash for treats!
Troubleshoot Now

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89 days ago

Lonicera nitida plants (Box Honeysuckle)

Vicki from Rangiora

Good sized plants. Looks like buxus when grown but grows at twice the speed. Tiny oval dark green leaves. Plant in full sun or semi shade. Ideal plant to shape into balls cones etc perfect for planting now $3.50 per plant

Price: $3.50

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89 days ago

Bulk Griselinia Plants

Vicki from Rangiora

Great for hedges. Good size. 100s available.$4 per plant.

Price: $4

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89 days ago

mother of bride / groom outfit, ideal for cupday

Doug from Rangiora

Beautiful black & green Taffeta silk dress and bolero designed and made by award winning designer Sonya Smith. Includes matching clutch bag and fascinator. Size 12-14. Worn once, Paid over $1500 , asking $750 ono cash, pickup is Rangiora

Price: $750

89 days ago

Rebecca renews her Cambridge connections

Charles Upham Retirement Village

Classical crossover singer Rebecca Nelson told a captivated Cambridge audience how the town holds a special place in her heart for several reasons.

Rebecca’s performance was one of three shows lined up to entertain residents and soon-to-be residents of Ryman Healthcare’s Patrick Hogan … View more
Classical crossover singer Rebecca Nelson told a captivated Cambridge audience how the town holds a special place in her heart for several reasons.

Rebecca’s performance was one of three shows lined up to entertain residents and soon-to-be residents of Ryman Healthcare’s Patrick Hogan Village in Cambridge, Hilda Ross Village down the road in Hamilton and James Wattie Village in Havelock North.

Describing her connection to Ryman, she says: “It feels like coming home and performing for friends and family.”

Click read for the full story.

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89 days ago

Monster Garage Sale for Kitty Kingdom Cat Rescue

Tina from Rangiora

Monster Garage Sale!!!!!!

Kitty Kingdom are holding a monster garage sale to raise much needed funds for the cats and Kittens in our care.

When?

Saturday 24 February from 9.00am until 3.00pm.

View more
Monster Garage Sale!!!!!!

Kitty Kingdom are holding a monster garage sale to raise much needed funds for the cats and Kittens in our care.

When?

Saturday 24 February from 9.00am until 3.00pm.

Where?

The McAlpines Pipe Band Hall, in the Rangiora New World car park.

What’s for sale?

Bric-a-brac * heaps of books * adult and children’s clothing * toys * kitchenware* household items * teddy bears * plants * baking * sports items * jewellery * handbags * DVD’s * games * craft items * puzzles * pet toys and pet products * picture frames * cushions * blankets * and more!!!!!

Come and bag yourself a bargain and help us to help the cats and kittens! We look forward to seeing you there!

Please note that no goodies or treasures will be available for sale until the start time of 9.00am.

Donations are still being gathered! If you have clean, saleable items to donate please contact Tina to arrange drop off (027 804 1524). No large furniture items please.

We will have a bake stand and a plant stall at our sale so we are also putting a call out for kind bakers and our supporters of the green fingered variety!

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89 days ago

School Cadet Army Battle dress jacket

Arthur from Rangiora

In vey good condition. Around the 1950's era. Only $45 cash, or payment by bank transfer. Pickup is in Rangiora.

Negotiable

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89 days ago

Valentine’s Day Shows to Stream

The Team from NZ Compare

This Valentine’s Day, why not snuggle up with your loved one for a movie night in?

We've curated the ultimate list of the latest romantic flicks and binge-worthy shows to make your evening extra special.

Plus, don't forget to compare broadband options on Broadband Compare for the… View more
This Valentine’s Day, why not snuggle up with your loved one for a movie night in?

We've curated the ultimate list of the latest romantic flicks and binge-worthy shows to make your evening extra special.

Plus, don't forget to compare broadband options on Broadband Compare for the best streaming deals!

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89 days ago

Show your favourite local business some love...

Prospa

It's back for a fifth year! Recognise the best local businesses in your neighbourhood by nominating them in the 2024 Prospa Local Business Hero Awards.

Whether it's a bakery team who occasionally sneak you an extra sweet treat, a supermarket employee that's helped carry your bags… View more
It's back for a fifth year! Recognise the best local businesses in your neighbourhood by nominating them in the 2024 Prospa Local Business Hero Awards.

Whether it's a bakery team who occasionally sneak you an extra sweet treat, a supermarket employee that's helped carry your bags to the car or a bookshop that goes out of its way to find the best read just for you. Prospa Local Business Hero helps you show some love to the small businesses with the biggest hearts.

Plus your nomination could help a small business win over $10,000 worth of prizes!

Be a local hero yourself; give your favourite local business owner the recognition they deserve by nominating them in the 2024 Prospa Local Business Hero awards.
Nominate now

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90 days ago

Jump Starter

Kian from Rangiora

Does anyone have something like this they are wanting to sell? Just after something to last me until my alternator is fixed.

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