Ashburton finalises rep review, ECan review awaits appeals
By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Ashburton’s representation review has been signed off without any appeals and now the attention turns to Environment Canterbury’s (ECan) contentious review.
The only changes for local body elections next year in the Ashburton District are some minor boundary changes.
There is an extension of the Ashburton Ward boundary to include the Trevors Rd area and the Methven Community Board boundary was also extended to include recent developments. The board will also retain five members after initially proposing a reduction to four.
The proposal had no appeals or objections so locks in the arrangements for the next triennial election, to be held on October 11.
ECan's final representation review is open to appeals or objections until November 25.
ECan ended up only making some minor boundary adjustments to the Christchurch City constituencies in its representation review, having previously proposed merging the Ashburton District with the South Canterbury councils and leaving Selwyn District as a stand-alone constituency.
Status quo was a preferred outcome for the Ashburton District Council, which had submitted against being moved into the South Canterbury constituency.
Democracy and engagement group manager Toni Durham said the council will consider if it would make any appeal or objection at the November 20 council meeting.
Selwyn District Council remains joined with the Ashburton District for the next election cycle, but several ECan councillors noted the continued population growth of Selwyn will have to be addressed when the next council considers representation review.
Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
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53.5% Yes
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46.5% No
‘Tis the season to not get scammed ...
As Christmas gift shopping moves increasingly online, scammers are ramping up their activity across the country.
Dunedin’s Investigation Support Unit is seeing more and more people fall victim to scams and other fraudulent activity, particularly on Facebook Marketplace.
There are a few ways to avoid the scams and keep yourself safe doing online trades this holiday season, says Southern District Service Delivery Manager Senior Sergeant Dalton.
🔒 “A good first step when looking to purchase something on Marketplace is to check when the seller’s Facebook profile was created. If it’s very recent, there is a higher risk that they have just created this account for a one-off fake item.”
🔒 Another important step is to make sure the seller’s profile name and bank account name match up. “We’re seeing a lot of scammers claiming their bank account name is different because it belongs to their partner or family member - that’s a huge red flag."
🔒 “When you’re selling, never trust a screenshot anyone sends you showing that payment has been made. Check your own bank account to make sure a payment has gone through."
🔒 “Quite frankly, it’s best for all parties to agree to pay, or be paid, for items in cash and in-person. Ideally in a public place with CCTV coverage."
🔒 "If you’re buying a car, check Carjam.co.nz to see if it’s stolen or if there’s money owed on it.”
A reminder: Suspicious activity can be reported on 105
Turn Wallpaper Scraps into Beautiful Blossoms
These blossoms made from Resene wallpaper left over after decorating will mean your décor will be blooming gorgeous, no matter the season. Find out how to create your own wallpaper flowers with these easy step by step instructions.
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