5 days ago

Arts Festival set to beat $11.1 million mark in 2026

Libby Totton Reporter from Waikato Times

An economic “hero event” is expected to deliver another multi-million-dollar boost to Hamilton early next year, continuing its steep upward trajectory.

The last Hamilton Arts Festival Toi Ora ki Kirikiriroa, held annually each February and March, provided a record $11.1 million cash injection to the local economy.

With the line-up for the coming festival now revealed, festival director Geoff Turkington said the figure was on track to be reached again — and then some.

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More messages from your neighbours
5 days ago

Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

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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Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
  • 53.1% Yes
    53.1% Complete
  • 46.9% No
    46.9% Complete
1633 votes
17 hours ago

Hospital ED new location of interest in measles spread

Libby Totton Reporter from Waikato Times

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.

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18 hours ago

Poll: Have you ever had a Healthy Homes inspection done where you live?

Libby Totton Reporter from Waikato Times

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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Have you ever had a Healthy Homes inspection done where you live?
  • 50% Yes
    50% Complete
  • 50% No
    50% Complete
2 votes