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By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Waimakariri’s deputy mayor has called on the Canterbury regional council to stop ‘‘side-stepping’’ issues with the Kaiapoi River.
Neville Atkinson has called on Environment Canterbury (ECan) to step up and investigate the causes of pollution … View moreBy David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Waimakariri’s deputy mayor has called on the Canterbury regional council to stop ‘‘side-stepping’’ issues with the Kaiapoi River.
Neville Atkinson has called on Environment Canterbury (ECan) to step up and investigate the causes of pollution levels in the Kaiapoi and Ruataniwha Cam rivers.
Atkinson was addressing community concerns at a Kaiapoi-Tuahiwi Community Board meeting on Monday evening.
Local residents formed a new catchment group last month, following concerns about the degradation on their local rivers, which they blamed on the use of herbicides.
ECan has acknowledged issues with macrophyte (weedbed) dieback and freshwater mussel (kākāhi) deaths, but said it was primarily due to saltwater incursions and also heavy frosts.
But Atkinson rejected ECan’s explanation.
‘‘As is evident, this has been going on for years. It is very evident there is a problem and whether it is a natural problem or a man-made problem, I don’t know. But I want to know what it is.
‘‘We owe it to our community to help ECan to come up with some answers, but ECan needs to stop side-stepping.’’
Atkinson said residents may not like the outcome, but it was important to get some answers.
Councillor Philip Redmond said the issue was complex.
‘‘If there was a simple fix, it would have been fixed a long time ago. It is going to be a long process.’’
Waimakariri District Council water environment adviser Sophie Allen said saltwater could come from other sources, but it was most likely from the sea.
Community members raised similar concerns following the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes.
A 2018 report by ECan principal scientist Adrian Meredith (pictured) concluded there were multiple causes, but found ‘‘increasing episodes of saline water intrusion flowing into the lower Kaiapoi River’’.
The river was historically the north branch of the Waimakariri River and environmental changes following the earthquakes both contributed to the high levels of saltwater intrusion.
Drought conditions and changing farming practices were also factors, the 2018 report found.
The community board asked council staff to work assist ECan to investigate the causes of saltwater incursions, including tides, river flows and salinity data and to monitor water quality and aquatic ecology trends.
Kaiapoi is known as the river town, with the river being a popular spot for boaties and whitebaiters.
■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Revamp an old trolley for drinks with a twist with Resene Enamacryl. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Four-wheel-drive enthusiasts and environmentalists will need to work together to protect birds nesting along the Ashley River after a vehicle ban was rejected by the Waimakariri District Council.
The Department of Conservation last month called for the … View moreBy David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Four-wheel-drive enthusiasts and environmentalists will need to work together to protect birds nesting along the Ashley River after a vehicle ban was rejected by the Waimakariri District Council.
The Department of Conservation last month called for the council to consider a vehicle ban on the upper Ashley River in Canterbury during nesting season, between October 31 and January 31.
Council staff considered the request, but found a ban would be unworkable.
Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon has reached out to 4WD clubs, police, the Department of Conservation (DOC), Environment Canterbury (ECan), Te Ngāi Tūāhuriri Rūnanga and the Ashley Rakahuri Rivercare Group in a show of unity.
‘‘What was clear from our meeting was that all groups want the best for the environment, and care about the Ashley Rakahuri River," Gordon said.
‘‘Bringing people together is the first step in solving this issue.’’
Ngāi Tūāhuriri upoko Dr Te Maire Tau said all river users need to respect the environment and avoid damaging waterways and the land.
‘‘The Ashley is home to endangered birds, and they need to be looked after.
Working together to ensure their protection and that of the wider river environment is important, he said
DOC operations manager Leeann Ellis said braided rivers are a globally rare ecosystem, home to species that have adapted to live in the environment.
But she acknowledged the Ashley River is an important recreation area.
ECan councillor Grant Edge said the majority of people are careful and considerate of wildlife.
‘‘We want those that use this area to value it, and education and information is a great start.’’
Canterbury police rural area commander Inspector Peter Cooper said collaboration is the best approach.
‘‘It is always preferable to enforcement. We welcome this approach and look forward to future discussions.’’
Bruce Stuart, from the Combined 4WD Clubs, said members are aware of the birds now nesting in the Upper Ashley and are happy to work together to protect them.
Ashley Rakahuri Rivercare Group operations manager Grant Davey said the upper Ashley River is narrow and there are few places for birds to nest.
‘‘It is completely inappropriate for any vehicle to be driven through them, but there are other important factors for the birds that also need addressing.’’
Rangiora-Ashley Community Board chairperson Jim Gerard said it was important to get a balance between protecting the nesting birds and keeping the river open for access to locals.
The groups will meet again in December to continue discussions.
■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Rural Waimakariri residents concerned about water in private wells should get it tested by a registered laboratory, the local council says.
The Waimakariri District Council issued the advice after Greenpeace raised alarm following drinking water testing… View moreBy David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Rural Waimakariri residents concerned about water in private wells should get it tested by a registered laboratory, the local council says.
The Waimakariri District Council issued the advice after Greenpeace raised alarm following drinking water testing in Oxford last weekend.
Greenpeace freshwater spokesperson Will Appelbe warned of a looming public health crisis in rural Canterbury due to nitrate levels in drinking water.
‘‘Nitrate contamination is a result of diffuse pollution from the intensive dairy industry.
‘‘Put simply, there are too many cows in Canterbury, and nitrate from the oversized dairy herd is making its way into people’s drinking water.’’
But a Waimakariri District Council spokesperson urged caution.
‘‘Our advice to residents would be that if people are concerned about the water in their private wells, we suggest they get this tested by a registered laboratory so they have all factual information, as some of the last testing done by Greenpeace turned out to be inaccurate.’’
The council’s own drinking water supplies are tested monthly for nitrates in accordance with the Drinking Water Quality Assurance Rules, the spokesperson said.
‘‘The results across all council water supplies are all less than 50 percent of the maximum allowable value under the drinking water standards, this means they are all less than 5.65 mg/L.’’
Water services regulator Taumata Arowai has set the maximum allowable value for nitrate-nitrogen in drinking water at 11.3mg/L, in line with World Health Organisation guidelines.
■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
2 x VYNCO Bathroom heaters. Brand new. Still wrapped ready to install in bathroom or other room requiring immediate heat. Not required as decided to install ceiling units. $150 each ono. Pick up Kaiapoi
There's only a few differences between our larger chain supermarkets here in New Zealand. Having someone bag your groceries is one of them.
Does having your groceries packed for you at the checkout influence where you do your grocery shop? If so, tell us why.
As we come up to the festive season, a lot of us want to shop online and look for good bargains 🛍️🛒
Here’s a few tips to help you stay safe, avoid buying stolen property, and not get taken advantage of:
💸If it is too good to be true, it probably is, or it could be stolen property.
… View moreAs we come up to the festive season, a lot of us want to shop online and look for good bargains 🛍️🛒
Here’s a few tips to help you stay safe, avoid buying stolen property, and not get taken advantage of:
💸If it is too good to be true, it probably is, or it could be stolen property.
💸If it’s being sold as new, ask for the receipt for the warranty. If they can’t provide it, that’s a red flag.
💸Check the seller’s profile, is it new or relatively blank?
💸If you make a purchase and need to meet somebody to get it, choose somewhere well-lit and well populated in public, near CCTV. If it has to be somebody’s home, take someone with you and let someone else know where you’re going and when.
💸Be especially cautious when buying power tools or high-end toy brick building block sets.
Sadly, if you unknowingly buy stolen property, you’re aiding criminals and inadvertently supporting them to steal more.
If you find a suspect listing or social media scam, call 105, or report it with us online at 105.police.govt.nz
Hemp is a highly nutritious plant-based protein source, conveniently
packaged in a small seed, rich in beneficial omegas, minerals, and essential amino acids. Hemp food nourishes and benefits overall health, brain function, joint mobility, and optimal functioning of the body.
Heart Health: Hemp… View moreHemp is a highly nutritious plant-based protein source, conveniently
packaged in a small seed, rich in beneficial omegas, minerals, and essential amino acids. Hemp food nourishes and benefits overall health, brain function, joint mobility, and optimal functioning of the body.
Heart Health: Hemp Seed Oil is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. These fatty acids may help lower bad cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and support overall heart health.
Skin Health: The fatty acids in Hemp Seed Oil can help nourish skin from within. They may aid in managing conditions like dry skin, eczema, and psoriasis when taken regularly.
Brain Function: Omega-3 fatty acids found in Hemp Seed Oil are associated with brain health. They may play a role in supporting memory, focus, and overall brain development.
Joint Health: Hemp seed oil, a naturally supporting Joint Health Oil, is praised for its nutrient-rich composition, especially its balanced omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are vital for maintaining healthy joints. This dietary supplement is recognised for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in reducing joint pain and improving flexibility.
Inflammation Reduction: The gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) present in Hemp Seed Oil has anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
Nutrient Absorption: The fatty acids in Hemp Seed Oil may enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. This can contribute to overall better nutrient uptake.
Read more & Purchase at www.immersioncosmetics.co.nz...
Exceptional Products & Services
Room to Heal in Rangiora
Reiki Practitioner
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Bioptron Medical Light Therapist
Email: raeimmersioncosmetics@gmail.com
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By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
The opening of Rangiora High School’s new whare has been a long time coming, board of trustees presiding member Simon Green says.
The school opened the $1.8 million cultural learning centre, Te Ao Mārama, with a pōwhiri last week after a nine month … View moreBy David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
The opening of Rangiora High School’s new whare has been a long time coming, board of trustees presiding member Simon Green says.
The school opened the $1.8 million cultural learning centre, Te Ao Mārama, with a pōwhiri last week after a nine month build.
‘‘It was fully board funded and it has been a long time coming,’’ Mr Green said.
‘‘We are embarrassed it has taken this long, but we are proud we are here and we are able to provide this nice space for students to celebrate their culture.’’
Up until now, Te Reo and kapa haka lessons have been held in an old prefab building across the road from the main school site.
Green said the next major project for board is developing a new performing arts centre for the school and wider community, while it continues to invest in the whenua (school farm).
Principal Bruce Kearney paid tribute to former principal, the late Peter Allen, who had the foresight to employ a Te Reo teacher and establish a whānau classroom for Māori students back in 1990.
‘‘We have built this in a time when it is acceptable to build things like this, whereas Peter created something we didn’t have before.’’
He described the new whare as ‘‘simplistic and beautiful’’
‘‘It is all about form and function,’’ he said.
The new building will be used as a classroom, to host performances and for functions.
‘‘Come summertime this is where we will have concerts and performances for our music and drama students,’’ Kearney said.
‘‘So it will be a performing arts centre as well, until we can build a purpose-built one.
‘‘One of the first things I said post-earthquake was we’ve got to stop building things which only open on weekdays or on Sundays.’’
Kearney said the new whare will be a space for the community, as well as the school, and for all cultures.
The 176sqm building has a fully equipped kitchen.
It can provide a classroom for 30 student desks, seat up to 100 people for performances or 40 people for dining, and 20 people sleeping.
The name, Te Ao Mārama, which means the world of enlightenment, was gifted to the school by Te Ngāi Tūāhuriri Rūnanga.
■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
It's a "biggie" Cheviot Village Market this weekend : A 3-day event on Saturday 26 to Monday 28 October, from 9.00am to 2.30pm each day. You'll find our quality stalls in the Cheviot Knox Church building and grounds, as well as the Community Hall behind. Free entry, … View moreIt's a "biggie" Cheviot Village Market this weekend : A 3-day event on Saturday 26 to Monday 28 October, from 9.00am to 2.30pm each day. You'll find our quality stalls in the Cheviot Knox Church building and grounds, as well as the Community Hall behind. Free entry, parking close by and refreshments just a very short stroll away.
My plans have changed and I am looking for a short tour over the Christmas period any suggestions?
Good afternoon Everyone.
The Rangiora Menz Shed will be open at The Rangiora A&P show this Sat 26th October.
Come over and take a peek at what we have. You wont be disappointed.
Coffin
Jack & Jill Seat
Single Seats
… View moreGood afternoon Everyone.
The Rangiora Menz Shed will be open at The Rangiora A&P show this Sat 26th October.
Come over and take a peek at what we have. You wont be disappointed.
Coffin
Jack & Jill Seat
Single Seats
Bench Seat
Small Tables
Trays
Ash Urns
Wishing Wells
Antique Chairs
BBQ Tables
Table with variety of tools (Make a Reasonable Offer)
Horse Shoe Balls
Horse Shoe Wine Rack Table
Don't miss a great deal
Using your car is convenient, except for finding parking.
Cycling lets you leave anytime, but you might arrive soaked.
So, neighbours, if public transport had the perk of being free, would it be your main way to commute?
The winners of the $100 Westfield vouchers are:
Patrice Hamilton from Sunnyhills
Lorraine Heffernan from Wigram
Rodney Norris from Papatoetoe
… View moreThe winners of the $100 Westfield vouchers are:
Patrice Hamilton from Sunnyhills
Lorraine Heffernan from Wigram
Rodney Norris from Papatoetoe
Lucy Ayres from Richmond
If you're a winner, get in touch here.
If you're not a winner this week, check back next week!
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