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: 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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82.3% Yes
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15% No
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2.7% Other - I'll share below
Electrician
Looking for a local electrician, able to hook up exterior bulk head light, to existing wiring. S doc available for the light in question.
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.