Stories by David Hill
News
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.
Waimakariri mayor: Rejected projects should not be fast-tracked
Waimakariri Mayor Dan Gordon says government should not undermine council decision-making processes.
ECan to promote testing of private water wells
An estimated 250,000-300,000 private wells are used for drinking water in Canterbury.
ECan left waiting for advice on large solar farms
Canterbury's regional council is none the wiser on how to respond to large-scale solar farm applications.
Residents vow to fight solar farm near their homes
Neighbours have received advice indicating it was unusual to build solar farms close to houses, a spokesperson says.
Is paid parking the answer for this town's growing needs?
Rangiora and Kaiapoi residents will get the chance to have their say on what parking demand might look like in 2040, and whether they are willing to pay for a good spot.
Tourist towns doubtful of government support
The Hurunui and Kaikōura councils are not expecting a share of the increased International Visitor Levy.
Oxford’s bright stars pull in the visitors
One year on from gaining international dark sky status, Oxford's night sky is proving to be a drawcard.
North Canterbury: How much will rates rise in 2025?
North Canterbury ratepayers can expect more rates rises, as local councils seek to deliver on their long term plans.
Area schools brace for busy year
Some schools get few, if any, New Zealand-trained teacher applicants, with several employing LAT (limited authority to teach) teachers to fill staffing gaps.
The willing students who struggle to find work
Rangiora High School is seeking opportunities for its Lighthouse programme (special needs) students.
Fears new standards could leave students with no qualification
The requirement to pass new literacy and numeracy standards to qualify for NCEA could result students leaving school with no qualifications.
Schools back threatened qualification
"There is zero chance we will get rid of level 1, until anyone provides an alternative."