Do you know how many Kāinga Ora homes were vacant late last year?
While 1698 people waited for public housing in Hamilton, there were 147 empty Kāinga Ora homes in the city.
The figures from late 2023 “astounded” Hamilton West National MP Tama Potaka - who labelled the city “the epicentre of emergency housing” - and Mayor Paula Southgate is calling for urgent government action.
But Kāinga Ora says the number of vacant homes has since dropped to 34, and there’s a focus on replacing older houses on big sections with multiple homes.
Poll: Would you want an unconventional funeral?
Funerals can cost as much as $22,000 and the planning can be stressful especially at a time when loved ones are grieving. Some New Zealanders are re-imagining funerals by making their own coffin or having a relaxed ceremony at home. Would you want a less traditional funeral? Share your thoughts below.
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85.3% Yes
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12.9% No
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1.8% Other - I'll share below!
Do you take alternative milk in your coffee?
The days of paying extra for is over at Wild Bean cafe but don’t expect your favourite city espresso haunt to follow their lead any time soon.
BP Australia and New Zealand took a “plant-based milk now at no extra cost” stance earlier this month as customers opting for the dairy alternatives tripled between 2017 and 2019.
Are you fascinated by fossils?
Bones, teeth and other fossilised animal remains that have taken nearly 25 years to collect will soon be displayed in Hamilton.
City man Vance Smith has amassed about $15,000 worth of fossils and is opening a museum-shop in Frankton in May to share his passion.