I have been fortunate in the past three or more years to hear the beautiful song of the Korimako, New Zealand Bellbird. Eventually I spotted one in the garden but it was a fleeting view as this fast moving bird was there and gone. Two very tall Bottle Brush trees in neighbouring gardens provide […]

via And at last……Korimako, the New Zealand Bellbird. — ordinarygoodness

Near the south end of Queens Road, with the western end of the riverbank walking/cycling path.

More info on what the different species need is on the Department of Conservation website here

Unlike in Australia, the NZ government budget shows a surplus and it’s a good time to promise tax cuts for electoral popularity purposes.

According to this story in the NZ Herald:

“Further tax cuts taxes and lifting incomes would be one National’s priorities if it is re-elected in September, Prime Minister Bill English said.

“But he wont be specific about which taxes and says there will be no specific promise during the election campaign.”

We mentioned in an earlier post that GST on local council rates is a tax on a tax and shouldn’t be there.  If they own their buildings, businesses can claim it back, but individuals can’t. The typical saving for most households in Waikanae would be around $350 a year by our estimate.

It’s an issue to raise with the parliamentary candidates over the next 3 months!

From a property near the river looking pretty much due south.

The Sunday Cantina opened for business today, and despite what the name suggests, will operate all weekdays.

This is on the north side of the alley leading from the Main Road. We think the 3 armchairs outside will be an attractive choice in afternoon sun and during the summer months.

At the Kapiti Arts & Crafts Society rooms, 192 Matai Road, Raumati Beach — not Waikanae, but when we bought a painting at its exhibition in Coastlands yesterday we asked if the space they had was free or reduced.  No, was the response, they can only afford it once a year and Coastlands have increased the charge three times in three years.  Hmm, now where might Coastlands have got the idea to do that from?  Yes, we all know.

Anyway we thought we would help by giving them a plug. Website

Story at-a-glance: Thirty-six percent of U.S. households grow their own food. Items you already have at home — from milk jugs to pantyhose — can help you create the perfect vegetable garden. Take advantage of vertical garden space by planting in over-the-door shoe organizers or shower caddies. By Dr. Mercola Growing your own vegetables and […]

via Innovative DIY Ways to Create an Organic