Bob Francis Wins Senior New Zealander Of The Year
Seven-term Mayor of Masterton, Bob Francis CNZM QSO MBE JP, has been named the 2024 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealander of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
Affectionately dubbed ‘Mr Wairarapa’, Bob has served his community in multiple areas, including health services, commercial development, the arts, aviation, homelessness, conservation and sports.
Bob’s award signifies the sixth time Ryman Healthcare has supported this category of the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards, which provides a fantastic opportunity to celebrate Kiwi seniors who continue to make positive contributions towards the future of Aotearoa.
Click read more for the full article.
Poll: What could the Christchurch City Council fund if it didn't have to pay GST on rates?
Christchurch mayor Phil Mauger says GST on rates, currently taken by central government, would be better spent locally.
The comments follow an Infometrics analysis that found over $1.1 billion of rates revenue nationwide was collected by the Government in 2022 as GST.
According to Infometrics, $88.5m of that came from Christchurch city ratepayers. It would be enough to save the Christ Church Cathedral from ruin; restore the Dux de Lux seven times over; cover both the Art Centre and Orana Wildlife Park’s request for regular public funding for over 26 years; contribute to light rail in Greater Christchurch; or get the South Library rebuild completed.
Read the full story by reporter Sinead Gill here and share your thoughts in the comments below. (Note: Subscription required. You can still read two free stories a month if you're not a ThePress.co.nz subscriber).
-
20% Light rail
-
4% South Library
-
43% Orana Wildlife Park
-
10% The Arts Centre
-
5% Dux de Lux
-
12% Christ Church Cathedral
-
6% Something else (share your thoughts in the comments)
When less is more
Turn old school chairs into a stylishly understated set with this simple DIY project and Resene finishes.
Find out more how to refresh your furniture with this handy advice.
Open Christchurch - celebration of architectural excellence
With 50 open buildings, 4 guided walks, 3 landscapes, 3 special events and over 40 activities (from expert talks and tours to workshops), Open Christchurch 2024 is a celebration of our architecture.
On 4 & 5 May, experience many of the city’s best buildings and spaces from the inside, for free. Discover new spaces or get up close to buildings you love.
35 out of the 50 buildings do not require advance bookings – you can just turn up on the day.
Check out the link under 'Read More' for a link to the website.