Government announces final Reshaping Streets package

The Minister of Transport has announced the final Reshaping Streets package of regulatory changes, which will give councils and communities more options to improve urban spaces and encourage healthier, safer and more sustainable travel. Reshaping Streets will enable councils and communities to work together to modify their existing streets to...

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Recycling and repurposing

There are 12 community recycling centres across the region. Many of them accept most types of waste. Look up your local recycling centre to find out what items they take. Some centres charge a fee for particular items, so check first. Your local op shop will take items that are...

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St James Theatre – a step forward

The government has just announced that it will match Auckland Council’s $15 million pledge to restore the St James Theatre. The restoration works and the construction of the associated St James Suites have been stalled for about 15 years. Listen to this RNZ interview (10’25”) with owner Steve Bielby. Image:...

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New time travelling app released

Greenwoods Corner, Epsom can now be experienced through a self-guided historical tour. It’s a walking route guided by greenwoodscorner.stqry.app, a free mobile web app that helps you explore part of Epsom, featuring 14 key historical sites in and around Greenwoods Corner. Discover the General Store from the 1900s, learn about...

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Promising signs for tree protection in new legislation

The Environment Select Committee has released its report and recommended amendments to the Natural and Built Environment Bill. Supporters of The Tree Council and the New Zealand Arboricultural Association sent more than 3,300 submissions to the select committee supporting the changes recommended in their Stop the Chop campaign. The  Parliamentary...

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Single-use plastic products on the way out

From 1 July 2023, the sale and manufacture of many single-use plastic products have been banned, restricted or phased out. Drinking straws Cutlery Bowls, trays and platters without lids Produce bags used to pack fresh fruit and vegetables Produce labels. The ban applies where items are sold or supplied for...

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Conservation Management Planning System broken and needs urgent overhaul

The Environmental Defence Society has released its review of the Conservation Management Planning System, calling for urgent reform. Co-authored by Dr Deidre Koolen-Bourke, Raewyn Peart, Bronwyn Wilde and Tracey Turner, the report reviews the adequacy of the legislation and policy settings, statutory planning documents, concessions system and institutional arrangements for...

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