That's how you discuss Three Waters
An experimental 'deliberative democracy' process has been used by Watercare to get input from Aucklanders on future water sources, and it could provide a model for a more inclusive and equitable format for citizen participation.
The Newsroom article Citizen assemblies offer hope for democracy and climate change challenges describes how a diverse group of demographically representative Aucklanders has been working with Watercare to give a citizens' view on how the region’s water should be supplied in future decades.
Given that Watercare will become the largest part of the future "Northwater" Entity A, I'm hopeful that this process will be used more often in the future, to discuss, deliberate and decide the gnarly questions. It sure beats the social media wars and toxic narratives that we're engaging in at the moment.
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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59.5% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26.2% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.3% ... 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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