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.

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

• Yes
• No

Vote View Results

• 53.1% Yes
  53.1% Complete
• 46.9% No
  46.9% Complete

1633 votes

POTTING MIX QUALITY

Patricia from Taradale

If, like me, you are an experienced and avid gardener you know how frustrating it is when those beautiful seedlings recently purchased fail to thrive. Have you ever considered it may not be your fault, you've done all the right things but it may be the new bag of potting mix you bought to plant them in . Have you ever complained to the garden centre? My recent experience showed the blatantly obvious difference between brands. The recently purchased product was nothing more than raw compost, whereas the previous product was a good mix and made the plants thrive. I was the only one to complain, there could not possibly be a problem with the product as they sell pallet loads of it........ Your comments would be appreciated.

‘Tis the season to not get scammed ...

The Team from New Zealand Police

As Christmas gift shopping moves increasingly online, scammers are ramping up their activity across the country.

Dunedin’s Investigation Support Unit is seeing more and more people fall victim to scams and other fraudulent activity, particularly on Facebook Marketplace.

There are a few ways to avoid the scams and keep yourself safe doing online trades this holiday season, says Southern District Service Delivery Manager Senior Sergeant Dalton.
🔒 “A good first step when looking to purchase something on Marketplace is to check when the seller’s Facebook profile was created. If it’s very recent, there is a higher risk that they have just created this account for a one-off fake item.”
🔒 Another important step is to make sure the seller’s profile name and bank account name match up. “We’re seeing a lot of scammers claiming their bank account name is different because it belongs to their partner or family member - that’s a huge red flag."
🔒 “When you’re selling, never trust a screenshot anyone sends you showing that payment has been made. Check your own bank account to make sure a payment has gone through."
🔒 “Quite frankly, it’s best for all parties to agree to pay, or be paid, for items in cash and in-person. Ideally in a public place with CCTV coverage."
🔒 "If you’re buying a car, check Carjam.co.nz to see if it’s stolen or if there’s money owed on it.”

A reminder: Suspicious activity can be reported on 105