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2044 days ago

Rates

Klaus from Bay of Islands

Yes, this is once more about rates and it calls upon thousands of ratepayers: As I have pointed out in my open letter to John Carter in April, there are many of us who don't receive what he calls "essential services", for instance drinking water, sewerage, rubbish disposal or animal management. Especially in challenging times like now this is a hardship for all of us but if we read what our Mayor has written, like (quote) "...Your Council is also taking a hands-on role helping the far North respond to this pandemic....At the same time, we are ensuring the essential services WE ALL RELY ON CONTINUE UNINTERUPTED...They are VITAL to the wellbeing of our communities..." (unquote) then we are left speechless because his words are indeed misleading and untrue since in many parts of the district these in the highest degree important services have never been delivered, let alone now when they do especially matter. However: We are still expected to pay rates for something essential that  is not available to us. This is unacceptable and I appeal to all of you who think the same: let's unite in our efforts to change this injustice to the old principle of "user pays." Now this is more important than ever before, but to be successful we need numbers. Therefore please write to atair.nz@gmail.com and/or go to transition towns Bay of Islands www.facebook.com... Together we are stronger!

John Carter letter to.pdf Download View

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Next Sunday – Christmas Market at Reyburn House!
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On Sunday 21 December 2025 from 10:00am – 3:00pmat Reyburn House, Town Basin, Whangārei

Enjoy a relaxed summer Sunday filled with:
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With Free parking, Dog friendly on lead and Family friendly

A perfect chance to support local makers, finish your Christmas shopping, and soak up the community spirit by the water.
Where heritage, creativity, and Christmas come together!

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The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Ministry of Social Development is reporting that fake information is circulating about new ‘December bonuses’ or ‘benefit increases’

If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.

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1 day ago

Poll: Are Kiwis allergic to “exuberance”? 🥝

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

In The Post’s opinion piece on the developments set to open across Aotearoa in 2026, John Coop suggests that, as a nation, we’re “allergic to exuberance.”

We want to know: Are we really allergic to showing our excitement?

Is it time to lean into a more optimistic view of the place we call home? As big projects take shape and new opportunities emerge, perhaps it’s worth asking whether a little more confidence (and enthusiasm!) could do us some good.

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Are Kiwis allergic to “exuberance”? 🥝
  • 40.8% Yes
    40.8% Complete
  • 33.4% Maybe?
    33.4% Complete
  • 25.8% No
    25.8% Complete
449 votes