Ashburton looks to support ageing population
From local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Facing a rapidly ageing population, the Ashburton District has received a funding boost to prepare an age friendly action plan.
Safer Mid Canterbury, a local community service provider, has a steering group leading the project that has been awarded $15,000 from Office for Seniors Age friendly Fund.
The Government agency provides grants to projects that promote the inclusion of older people and help cities and communities prepare for their ageing populations.
Safer Mid Canterbury steering group chairperson, deputy mayor Liz McMillan (pictured) said the grant will be used for a needs assessment as the first step in developing an age friendly strategy.
“A steering group will be set up next year and there will be some research into what the need is in the district.”
The research will include speaking with older people in the Ashburton District and to the agencies which work with them, as well as analysing Census and other relevant data.
Findings and data collected in the needs assessment research will be developed into an Age Friendly Strategy and Action Plan for Ashburton District.
The number of over 65s rose by 14% since 2018, according to the Census data.
Residents aged over 65 make up a fifth of the district’s population and the number is predicted to grow, McMillan said.
“Older Ashburton residents contribute hugely to the wellbeing of our community through continuing to work, volunteering, caring for grandchildren, being involved in community activities as well as being good neighbours and active members of society.
“We look forward to highlighting and celebrating the contributions of older people to our district and further developing and improving areas which will make the lives of our district’s older residents better.”
Office for Seniors age friendly programme lead Karen Piercy said she was proud of Ashburton for taking their first steps in developing an age friendly strategy.
“By identifying what’s important for older people in their community, we can help make Ashburton an amazing place to age well.”
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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53.2% Yes
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46.8% 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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