Architect's vision for MIQ 'pods' on Quail Island in Lyttelton Harbour
Architect Michael O’Sullivan suggests we take a cue from our own history to provide quarantine facilities for incoming travellers.
O’Sullivan says Quail Island in Lyttelton Harbour was used to quarantine people with leprosy more than a century ago, and is perfectly located to be an MIQ facility.
The architect, who has an office overlooking the harbour, has suggested a prefabricated pod design could provide suitable accommodation on the island. The pods would be environmentally and aesthetically responsive to the landscape.
The government has previously resisted suggestions that we should develop purpose-built MIQ facilities, including isolating people on military bases or other remote locations, in favour of using hotels.
What do you think of O'Sullivan's idea? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD
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.
Book Cellar Christmas Opening hours
Merry Christmas from The Book Cellar!
The summer break is the perfect time to relax with a book or two (or three or four…). And, of course, books make excellent gifts. There is still time to come in and find the perfect read for you or someone else.
We are open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday of this week as usual, then our Christmas hours are:
Monday 22nd December, 10am – 3pm
Wednesday 24th December, 10am – 12noon
Friday 26th December (Boxing Day), 10am – 1pm (last day for the year).
We will reopen with our usual hours on Thursday 8th January 2026
Some Choice News!
Many New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.
Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours still get to enjoy these beautiful butterflies in their own backyards.
Thinking about planting something to invite more butterflies, bees, and birds into your garden?
Thanks for your mahi, Alan! We hope this brings a smile!
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