Local body elections
On the weekend I received my local body voting papers and a booklet full of candidates’ statements. Like many people I don’t know the majority of candidates although I recognise some of the names from the plethora of signage currently displayed.
Also on the weekend I read about Stuff’s project where they contacted every candidate in every council race to ask a series of questions about climate change. Stuff also asked them all for a short position statement on climate change issues. (Found at interactives.stuff.co.nz...)
I was disappointed to discover that some of the candidates in my district have not yet responded, or perhaps have no intention of responding, to the ten questions posed to them. We all have a range of views about climate change and possible council actions. I didn’t agree with some of the responses, including that of the candidate who answered ‘no’ to the first question: “The climate is warming as a direct consequence of human actions.”
But I commend that candidate for having the gumption to be honest to the voters.
To simplify my voting choices I’ve crossed out the names of all the candidates who did not respond to the survey.
The climate change issue is divisive and maybe the candidates who did not respond were worried that expressing a point of view may lose them some votes. Or perhaps they were too busy doing other things, such as putting up more signs asking for our votes. That’s not the type of person I want to be an elected representative of my community.
I would prefer to vote for that candidate who answered ‘no’, than to vote for someone who chooses to keep silent over an important issue.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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59.8% Yes, supporting people is important!
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25.9% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.4% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
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!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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