Sophie Handford - Poplar Avenue Stormwater Culvert
In a year in which there have been more brickbats awarded to local and central government than bouquets, it is heartening to send a huge bouquet to Councillor Sophie Handford. Why? For her sterling efforts in co-ordinating action to address the problem of stormwater flooding that plagues many residents of Poplar Avenue, Raumati South. After almost four years of inaction by various powers-that-be, we approached Sophie for help. She has managed to initiate dialogue and facilitate action amongst stakeholders in less than eight months. Her persistence will realise the installation of a stormwater culvert on Poplar Avenue in the coming summer. Sophie’s persistent desire to support local residents will ensure: greater safety for the public, school students in particular; reduction in the tens of thousands of dollars of damage and repairs shouldered by flood-affected residents; controlled maintenance of wetlands where native flora and fauna flourish. At every stage of the process, Sophie has been realistic, positive and reassuring. From chasing up contractors’ quotes to helming on-site meetings with HUD representatives; there has not been a task too small to warrant her pro-activism. She has fulfilled her role as local councillor with genuine care and professionalism. We are sure other residents can attest to Sophie’s contribution to other projects such as the provision of care packages and services to those in need during trying COVID times, the pedestrian crossing at the entrance to the QE11 Park walk and cycleway, and eco-action conservation. Sophie, we look forward to celebrating the installation of the Poplar Avenue stormwater culvert and your re-election, with pizza and coffee. Many thanks for your mahi. Best wishes and kia kaha! Poplar Avenue Residents (99-103)
Poll: Are Kiwis allergic to “exuberance”? 🥝
In The Post’s opinion piece on the developments set to open across Aotearoa in 2026, John Coop suggests that, as a nation, we’re “allergic to exuberance.”
We want to know: Are we really allergic to showing our excitement?
Is it time to lean into a more optimistic view of the place we call home? As big projects take shape and new opportunities emerge, perhaps it’s worth asking whether a little more confidence (and enthusiasm!) could do us some good.
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42% Yes
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33.3% Maybe?
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24.7% No
The Computer Place Hours over Christmas & New Year
Our retail store is open until 5pm 19 December 2025
Our service department is on call, so if you have any urgent
computer service requirements in this time, We are on call, except Christmas Day.
You just need to ring our office phone on 04 2972226 and leave a message, or you can contact us on our contact form on our webpage
info@cando.co.nz
Our phone is monitored regularly during the day.
We are back to normal in our shop at 7 Hinemoa Street, Paraparaumu from 5 January 2025.
We would like to thank all our customers for your support in 2025 and look forward to servicing your computer needs in 2026.
Some Choice News!
Many New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.
Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours still get to enjoy these beautiful butterflies in their own backyards.
Thinking about planting something to invite more butterflies, bees, and birds into your garden?
Thanks for your mahi, Alan! We hope this brings a smile!
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