Close race for Top of the Chocs
Porirua Mayor Anita Baker and Whittaker’s Kat Guard presented the ChoctoberFest 2023 awards to Gemma McCaughey and Hayden Sergent-Mcleod (The Karaage Kid, Top of the Chocs) and Anita Vogt (The Regal Shortbread Co., Whittaker’s Bake Off) to finish off a decadent month showcasing Porirua’s culinary creators.
More than 10,000 drinks and treats were enjoyed and 5000 public votes were cast. Massive congratulations to The Karaage Kid, whose Aunty Doris’s Thickshake won Top of the Chocs, while The Regal Shortbread Co. took out the Whittaker’s Bake Off with their decadent Chocolate Meringue Pie.
Rounding out the top three in the drinks category was Plimmerton Cake Café and Peppermill Café, with Local Authority and Urban Bake House second and third in the baking competition.
Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
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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53.1% Yes
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46.9% No
Make the holidays easier this year!
We’ve pulled together a few clever Christmas hacks thanks to Ryman resident, Sullen - simple ideas to save time and stress so you can enjoy more of the festive fun.
A few favourites:
- Hang tree lights vertically for an even glow
- Use reusable gift bags for quick, eco-friendly wrapping
- Prep food ahead to keep Christmas Day relaxed
Click read more for the full list of tips.
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