‘Gap filling’ grants made to local conservation projects
A ‘gap-filler’ conservation fund established at Momentum Waikato by a local philanthropic couple has made its first round of grants towards predator control and restoration planting projects across the region.
The Waikato Hauraki Conservation Fund was kickstarted by a significant donation by Dianne and Selwyn June in 2021, and then boosted by a donation from the estate of the late John and Bunny Mortimer, who established the Taitua Arboretum.
The new Conservation Fund welcomes public donations that will grow the ongoing investment income it uses to support conservation work by voluntary groups and landowners.
“From what we’ve seen, it is the small things that need reliable funding. For instance, they might need to buy some bait stations, perhaps send some attendees on a first aid course, or buy safety gear” says Dianne.
Click 'Read More' to find out which groups received the first grants from the Waikato Hauraki Conservation Fund.
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
Hospital ED new location of interest in measles spread
Waikato Hospital’s Emergency Department is the latest location of interest for measles.
Two separate days in the last week were listed on Health NZ’s website on Friday morning as a place where someone with measles was known to have visited.
Poll: Have you ever had a Healthy Homes inspection done where you live?
Conflicting Healthy Homes inspection reports are raising concerns about the consistency of standards meant to ensure rental properties are safe and liveable.
In one recent case, a Cambridge rental property underwent two inspections within a week, with significantly different outcomes. The first, arranged by tenant Sara Lewis, identified multiple issues including mould, vermin, and ventilation concerns. A second inspection, arranged by property managers Harcourts, just six days later, found little to criticise.
Have you ever had a Healthy Homes inspection done where you live? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).
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37.5% Yes
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62.5% No
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