Help for owners of earthquake prone buildings
Wellingtonians of earthquake-prone units can now apply for cheap Government loans to fix their home, but some are already slamming it as “coercive debt”.
From today, owner-occupiers of units and apartments in earthquake-prone buildings can apply for up to $250,000 in low-interest loans.
There are still 561 buildings overall, including units and apartments, registered as earthquake prone in Wellington City.
The average cost of earthquake repairs for apartments has been estimated at $500,000.
Minister for Building and Construction Jenny Salesa said the scheme aimed to help owners avoid being forced to sell their home or face “huge financial hardship”.
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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76.6% Yes
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22.1% No
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1.3% 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% Yes
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15.3% No
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2.7% Other - I'll share below