Eyrewell Forest, West Eyreton

105 days ago

Respite care ‘at or near full capacity’ in North Canterbury

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

An aged care advocate has fired back at claims there are enough respite care beds in North Canterbury's rest homes.

The NZ Aged Care Association says it is concerned Te Whatu Ora Health NZ is passing respite care on to aged care facilities, which … View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

An aged care advocate has fired back at claims there are enough respite care beds in North Canterbury's rest homes.

The NZ Aged Care Association says it is concerned Te Whatu Ora Health NZ is passing respite care on to aged care facilities, which are not always equipped to deal with the demand.

Health NZ has confirmed it won't offer respite care at the Rangiora Health Hub after decommissioning four flexi-beds for the service.

A Health NZ spokesperson said respite care is offered by aged care facilities in North Canterbury, ‘‘where the appropriate level of care can be maintained’’.

The agency said it understood there were four aged care providers in Rangiora which offered respite care, while there are two providers in Kaiapoi.

But the New Zealand Aged Care Association said the claim there is adequate capacity within aged care facilities is ‘‘misleading’’.

‘‘While North Canterbury does have several aged care facilities, only one of these says it has a single bed dedicated to respite care.

‘‘Many of these providers are already operating at or near full capacity, and the availability of respite care is always conditional on beds being vacant between long-term residents.’’

Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey said the community needed reassurance services were available in North Canterbury.

He said he was disappointed to learn there was just one bed dedicated to respite care, despite assurances from Health NZ.

‘‘I will be approaching Health NZ to find out why this is the case and ask them to explain the situation.’’

Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon said he was concerned to hear the number of respite beds available in Waimakariri is decreasing.

‘‘I will be looking into this. It seems families are having to navigate this issue at what is likely the worst time of their lives.

‘‘I would like to see something done to streamline or simply this process to ensure loved ones are able to remain close to family and in their communities at this final stage of life.’’

Information provided by the New Zealand Aged Care Association, and available on the Ministry of Health website, shows there are eight aged care facilities in Waimakariri which provide respite care, and two in the Hurunui district.

Three rural hospitals also provide respite care.

There are different types of respite care, including ACC, rest-home, hospital, palliative, dementia and end of life care, with aged care facilities licensed for different types of care.

Health NZ regional manager ageing well Mardi Fitzgibbon said respite care is funded by Health NZ and is allocated by the Needs Assessment Service (NASC) following a review of the person’s needs.

"It is generally provided up to 28 days per year, to give the person’s main carer a break.

"The level of respite is need dependent and may be for rest home, hospital or dementia levels of care."

It can also be funded through other agencies such as ACC, or families can make private arrangements.

Bainswood on Victoria home manager Lucy Farley said the process of applying for respite care can be complex.

‘‘It can be a minefield for people, particularly when they are going through this big life change.’’

Palliative care can be available for younger people and end of life respite care is also available, she said.

Charles Upham Retirement Village manager David Cartwright said the village has 120 care beds for both short and long term care, but availability cannot be guaranteed.

‘‘Unlike a hotel, we may have a resident who comes in for 14 days, but they may be up and fit after seven days, or they may need 21 days, so it can be very difficult to try to allocate beds.’’

Holmwood Rangiora Lifecare care home manager Elsie Evans said a needs assessment is completed before a resident is admitted.

But the ability to offer respite care is subject to beds and staff being available.

■ Respite care is also available at Bainlea House and Ballarat Care Home (Rangiora), Annaliese Haven Rest Home (Kaiapoi), Ultimate Care Karaden (Oxford), Oxford Hospital, Bloomfields Court Retirement Village (Woodend), Adriel Resthome (Amberley), Amberley Resthome and Retirement Village, Waikari Hospital and Te Hā o Te Ora Kaikōura Health.

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

105 days ago

Want to Know Thy Neighbour?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Look at these lovely faces around New Zealand who have introduced themselves on our Know Thy Neighbour page. We all love learning about the people around us and we want you to join in too!

So share a photo and a little bit about yourself so your neighbours can (virtually) meet you!
Introduce yourself here

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105 days ago

Want to put your fruit and veges to good use?

NZ Gardener

Is your garden producing more fruit and veg than you know what to do with? Or are you simply wanting to add more to your cooking? NZ Gardener has teamed up with Upstart Press this August with a great subscription offer to help you out!

Subscribe to NZ Gardener for 1 or 2 years and you’ll … View more
Is your garden producing more fruit and veg than you know what to do with? Or are you simply wanting to add more to your cooking? NZ Gardener has teamed up with Upstart Press this August with a great subscription offer to help you out!

Subscribe to NZ Gardener for 1 or 2 years and you’ll receive the Abundance plant-based recipe book by Anna Valentine. Abundance offers over 100 recipes that are filling, healthy and packed with flavour, plus enjoy your monthly dose of NZ Gardener magazine - the perfect combo. T&Cs apply.

The team at NZ Gardener
Find out more

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105 days ago

Building in flood prone area comes at a cost

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

If you choose to build in a flood prone area you can expect to pay more, says a Waimakariri councillor.

Councillor Robbie Brine said new floor level guidelines will increase foundation costs for house builds in areas at risk of flooding, including beach… View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

If you choose to build in a flood prone area you can expect to pay more, says a Waimakariri councillor.

Councillor Robbie Brine said new floor level guidelines will increase foundation costs for house builds in areas at risk of flooding, including beach communities.

However, he said it was a necessary move to reduce the risk.

The Waimakariri District Council approved a revised technical note on floor level guidelines at a council meeting on Tuesday.

The revised guideline means all houses built in a low flood risk area will need freeboard floor levels 500mm above the ground to be prepared for a one in 200-year flood.

Affected areas included beach communities, parts of Kaiapoi and other low lying areas.

Brine said when he built a house at Waikuku Beach he had to raise the floor level by an extra 150mm.

‘‘If you want to live at a beach there are risks involved and this extra cost is to mitigate those risks.’’

He said he supported the previous regulations, which led to his inflated foundation costs.

‘‘I am a climate change believer and I believe you have to plan for the future and manage that risk.

‘‘It has cost us, but if you don’t plan for the future you are a fool.

‘‘You look at councils in the North Island getting hammered for a lack of foresight. People are asking ‘why did you let us build here’."

The new guideline considers up to date flood hazard models, new government regulations and the Canterbury Regional Policy Statement.

The policy statement guides councils on the resource management issues in the Canterbury region.

Mayor Dan Gordon said the council had a responsibility to mitigate risk.

‘‘I have been aware of a number of people who have been through a build and have had to look seriously at the costs.

‘‘But if we don’t make sure these risks are managed, we will be in the gun.’’

But councillor Paul Williams said he was concerned the council was adding unnecessary costs on to builders and homeowners.

Councillor Philip Redmond said he also had reservations, but understood the reasons behind it.

‘‘It is not the total solution. While the floor levels help to protect your home from flooding, it doesn’t help with access in a flood, because you could become marooned.’’

Waimakariri District Council utilities and roading manager Gerard Cleary said rainfall data had changed little, but council staff now had more detailed modelling available, particularly for coastal flooding.

He said LIM reports will show the new mapping data in future.

The council approved its most recent practice note last year, but staff had found some inconsistencies which prompted the latest review.

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

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106 days ago

Roadside Rescue

Rodney from Driven Automotive

Did you know that we've been providing Roadside Rescue services to the North Canterbury Community for the past 14 years?
If you're experiencing a vehicle issue and are a member of Ami, State Insurance, NZ Roadside Assistance, or First Rescue, one of our friendly team members will be … View more
Did you know that we've been providing Roadside Rescue services to the North Canterbury Community for the past 14 years?
If you're experiencing a vehicle issue and are a member of Ami, State Insurance, NZ Roadside Assistance, or First Rescue, one of our friendly team members will be there to assist you when you need it most!
From the road side to repairing your vehicle, we do it all.

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106 days ago

Aged Care Employee Day

Charles Upham Retirement Village

August 7 is Aged Care Employee Day. Today, we take the opportunity to honour our compassionate and dedicated carers. Introducing Helen Danielsen, who has worked in the Special Care Unit at Ernest Rutherford Village for 15 years.

When Senior Caregiver Helen Danielsen first joined the Ernest … View more
August 7 is Aged Care Employee Day. Today, we take the opportunity to honour our compassionate and dedicated carers. Introducing Helen Danielsen, who has worked in the Special Care Unit at Ernest Rutherford Village for 15 years.

When Senior Caregiver Helen Danielsen first joined the Ernest Rutherford Special Care team, it was working the night shift as it was the perfect job to manage while she raised her children as a single mum.

Click read more for the full story.

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107 days ago

Bioptron Hyperlight - The future of Healing

Rae from Room To Heal

Hello Neighbours

The concept behind Bioptron is simple yet profound: "There is no life without light."

It's a fundamental source of energy that our bodies need to thrive. It fuels our cells, regulates our biological rhythms, and plays a vital role in our overall health and … View more
Hello Neighbours

The concept behind Bioptron is simple yet profound: "There is no life without light."

It's a fundamental source of energy that our bodies need to thrive. It fuels our cells, regulates our biological rhythms, and plays a vital role in our overall health and well-being.

This simple truth has been reinforced by decades of scientific research, including Nobel Prize-winning discoveries that have illuminated the intricate ways light interacts with our bodies. Bioptron Hyperlight is the culmination of this research, a revolutionary technology that harnesses the power of light for healing and rejuvenation.


It works by delivering a unique spectrum of light that penetrates deep into tissues, stimulating cellular processes and promoting natural healing. This non-invasive and drug-free approach has been clinically proven to be effective for various health conditions including:

1. Pain Relief: Reduces inflammation and promotes tissue repair for relief from chronic pain.

2. Wound Healing: Accelerates the healing process for various types of wounds, including cuts, burns, and ulcers.

3. Skin Rejuvenation: Improves skin tone, texture, and elasticity, reducing the signs of aging.

4. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Helps regulate sleep cycles and mood for those affected by SAD.

5. Immune System Support: Strengthens the body's natural defenses to fight off illness and infection.

I am thrilled to share this ground-breaking technology with you. Bioptron represents a new frontier in health and wellness, and has the potential to transform lives.


Exceptional Products & Services
Room to Heal in Rangiora
Reiki Practitioner
Therapeutic Massage Therapist
Bioptron Medical Light Therapist
Love and Light
Rae

A
107 days ago

POTTED MINI DAFFODILS

Arthur from Rangiora

Again this year I have a number of potted TETE TETE mini daffodils for sale. They are at the bud burst stage(just starting to open) only $12 per pot with 25% of sales being donated to the CANCER SOCIETY. Pickup is in Rangiora phone 03 745 91 48

Price: $12

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117 days ago

Poll: Should you ask before planting tall shrubs/trees near your property line?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

It may be fine now but in a few years trees can block out light or views for neighbours.

Do you think neighbours should ask before they go ahead and plant these?

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Should you ask before planting tall shrubs/trees near your property line?
  • 69.2% Yes, always ask
    69.2% Complete
  • 29.8% No
    29.8% Complete
  • 1.1% Other - I'll share below!
    1.1% Complete
2789 votes
107 days ago

Calling all environmental champions

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

The lookout is on for Waimakariri’s environmental champions.

Waimakariri Zone Committee chairperson Carolyne Latham is encouraging people to get their nominations in for the Waimakariri Environmental Awards.

The awards were established last year … View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

The lookout is on for Waimakariri’s environmental champions.

Waimakariri Zone Committee chairperson Carolyne Latham is encouraging people to get their nominations in for the Waimakariri Environmental Awards.

The awards were established last year and are organised in conjunction with the Waimakariri District Council’s community service awards.

‘‘Everything went quite smoothly last year so we are just trying to do the same again,’’ Latham said.

‘‘I would really encourage people to enter or make a nomination because the environmental awards help to bring into the spotlight all the good work that is going on out there, and hopefully inspire others as well.

‘‘Most don’t want or seek recognition, but are quite chuffed when they get it.’’

With two ecologists on the judging panel, entering the awards is an opportunity to get some feedback and advice on projects, she said.

The judging panel can also give suggestions for funding sources if it is required.

Last year’s winners included Noelene Francis, who runs the Silverstream Reserve planting days, Oxford Dark Sky and Cust School.

Nominations close on August 16 and there are three categories for individuals, groups and youth.

This year’s winners will receive a $750 voucher, some plants from Riverside Horticulture and a framed certificate.

The Waimakariri Zone Committee is a joint committee of the Waimakariri District Council and Environment Canterbury.

To find out more about the awards, go to: www.ecan.govt.nz....

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

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123 days ago

Video tape cleaner

Lee from Swannanoa - Ohoka

Hi

This is a bit of a longshot but thought I'd give it a go.

I collect old films on video (like we used to get at video rental shops etc) and have a few tapes with mould on them and need cleaning.

Does anyone have an old video tape cleaning device or tape winder device they no longer need?
View more
Hi

This is a bit of a longshot but thought I'd give it a go.

I collect old films on video (like we used to get at video rental shops etc) and have a few tapes with mould on them and need cleaning.

Does anyone have an old video tape cleaning device or tape winder device they no longer need?

I'm planning to build my own video cleaning device as I have quite a few to clean but thought I'd ask here first just in case someone has one gathering dust in their garage somewhere. :-)

Thanks



Thanks

119 days ago

SCAM PHONE MESSAGE

James from Rangiora

Just found a recorded message on my answering machine. It claims to be from SPARK, saying there's a problem and they will disconnect my line within 24 hours, and that for further information I should press button 1. I'm really worried that I could be turned off even though I disconnected … View moreJust found a recorded message on my answering machine. It claims to be from SPARK, saying there's a problem and they will disconnect my line within 24 hours, and that for further information I should press button 1. I'm really worried that I could be turned off even though I disconnected from SPARK about 2 years ago... NOT. The scammers are still out there! I suspect that if someone follows the instruction they will be connected to a scammer via a high cost connection, so be aware folks and ignore, do NOT follow the instructions and just delete the message. I have advised SPARK that their name is being used in this way.

109 days ago

Family Friendly Service and Discussion

Jeneane Hobby from Ashley Community Church Incorporated

Note change of time from summer start time.

Next family-friendly monthly service - Sunday, 1 September - at the Ashley Community Church. With shorter days the gathering will start at 3.30 pm with a shared afternoon tea. Remember to bring something to share!

Also remember to go before you … View more
Note change of time from summer start time.

Next family-friendly monthly service - Sunday, 1 September - at the Ashley Community Church. With shorter days the gathering will start at 3.30 pm with a shared afternoon tea. Remember to bring something to share!

Also remember to go before you come as there is no toilet on site.

Enquiries to Paul or Lesley, Ph 021 140 2074
39 Canterbury St, Ashley.

110 days ago

Spring Promotion!

The Wheel Magician Christchurch North

Our Spring promotion is here! Book in for a wheel repair with us during the month of August and go in the draw to win a Prestige Car Wash with our friends at Espresso Car Wash.

*T+Cs apply. See advert for more info.

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110 days ago

Why Should I clean My Tongue? A Must Read

Rae from Room To Heal

Hello Neighbours
Today we're going to highlight an underrated oral hygiene habit: Tongue Cleaning

Why Should I clean my Tongue?
Studies show that using a tongue cleaner is almost TWICE as effective at removing biofilms / tongue coatings that cause bad breath than a toothbrush alone. And, … View more
Hello Neighbours
Today we're going to highlight an underrated oral hygiene habit: Tongue Cleaning

Why Should I clean my Tongue?
Studies show that using a tongue cleaner is almost TWICE as effective at removing biofilms / tongue coatings that cause bad breath than a toothbrush alone. And, getting rid of that stinky gunk helps freshen breath.

Tongue cleaning improves our ability to taste subtle flavours in foods.
This healthy oral hygiene habit slows the growth of plaque.

For the ultimate technique to end bad breath forever, scrape your tongue with the tongue cleaner and then brush your tongue (and the rest of your mouth) with our HealThy Mouth Blend!

If you want a super Fresh Breath every day - www.immersioncosmetics.co.nz...

Exceptional Products & Services

Room to Heal in Rangiora
Reiki Practitioner
Therapeutic Massage Therapist
Bioptron Medical Light Therapist
Love and Light
Rae

Price: $22.50

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