Stories by David Hill
News
Rates rise down to 5.8% for Canterbury
The council previously signalled a rates hike of 15.5 percent in last year's 2024/34 Long Term Plan.
Postal voting made easier with orange boxes
The Waimakariri District Council is gearing up for this year's local government elections.
Want to run for council? These are the rules
Nominations open for this year's local government elections on 4 July.
Public transport woes for Canterbury's big growth areas
Environment Canterbury is struggling to meet a growing demand for bus services, amid a reduced budget.
Tourists called on to help count Kaikōura’s whales
The Great Kaikōura Whale Count will be held throughout the month of June, with volunteers needed to help spot whales as they swim past the Kaikōura coastline.
Canterbury bus fares to increase from July
Greater Christchurch bus fares will increase in July, with the standard adult fare increasing from $2 to $3.
Council may ditch credit rating agency after downgrade
The Waimakariri District Council could ditch the credit rating agency S&P after it received a credit rating downgrade.
Canterbury farmers ask MPs to cut red tape
North Canterbury farmers want to help boost the economy, but say the red tape needs to go.
Former ECan chair blasts councillors for 'acting like emus'
Environment Canterbury's former chair says his colleagues are ''acting like emus'' by allowing staff to continue planning work in the face of legislative change.
At-risk lizards to lose home to Canterbury's Woodend Bypass
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is working with the Waimakariri District Council to a new home for Canterbury grass skinks found in the path of the Woodend Bypass.
Councillor resigns over 'grossly oversized' cricket ground
Hurunui councillor and former mayor Garry Jackson has resigned in protest at the "oversized" cricket ground in the Amberley Village Green.
Kaikōura’s bid to attract the top marine brains
A study concluded it had the potential to become an international hub for marine research and education - if it could get the funding.
ECan remains defiant on bus fares
Canterbury's regional council continues to push back against government pressure to raise bus fares.
Rail still seen as 'crucial' to Canterbury's future
The Greater Christchurch Partnership and the Canterbury Regional Transport Committee have made their recommendations on the draft Canterbury Regional Public Transport Plan.
SH1 lights to be changed to protect town's birds
One endangered bird species regularly crash lands in the town after becoming disorientated by street lights.
Kaikōura seabirds fight for survival
Kaikōura residents are being reminded to be on the lookout for injured and distressed birds, as young Hutton's shearwater chicks take flight for the first time. Turning off the lights and following…
Surge in young parents’ college enrolments
The Karanga Mai Young Parents' College is overcoming its challenges through community support. Audio
ECan braces for more consent headaches
Environment Canterbury says it is on top of its consents processing requirements, after its battles.
Bequest saves plan to upgrade town's bridge
The Williams Street bridge over the Kaiapoi River is set for a facelift after a local community advocate left a large donation in his will.
No plans for SH1 safety improvements in Kaikōura, despite concerns
Business owners are worried about safety at a busy intersection where trucks "thunder" through town.
Kaikōura is booming amid economic uncertainty
The Kaikōura district obtained international dark sky sanctuary status six months ago and it has led to two new business opportunities starting up.
The council with no millennials or Gen Z representatives
Kaikōura Mayor Craig Mackle wants to see younger people join him at the council table, while his deputy plans to retire.
Lower rates or better roads? The choice for Hurunui ratepayers
Hurunui ratepayers will have to choose between a lower rate rises or improved roads.
Kaikōura may have no warning of tsunami
Canterbury coastal residents could have little or no warning of a major tsunami event, councils warn.