74 days ago

Ship shape: NZ Navy’s latest commender began high seas journey in Thames

Libby Reporter from Waikato Local

The newest Commanding Officer of the Royal New Zealand Navy’s HMNZS Canterbury says his 35-year Navy career started with an inspiring recruiter who visited his high school in Thames.

Commander Wayne Andrew uttered “I have the ship” at a Change of Command ceremony at Devonport Naval Base on Thursday, receiving the ship’s symbol of command – a greenstone mere – from outgoing Commanding Officer Commander Bronwyn Heslop.

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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
18 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?
  • 33.3% Yes
    33.3% Complete
  • 66.7% No
    66.7% Complete
3 votes