Flower Beds

Recently I was criticised for supporting replacing all but eleven of the cities bedding gardens containing flowering annuals.

Our bedding gardens are in a bad way.  Many are overgrown with oxalis and other weeds or fungus infestations.  Some are prone to flooding.  They may be situated badly with manhole covers or lampposts in the way, or behind parked cars.

On top of that, the council only has so much money to spend.  To improve the condition of the current gardens in some cases would require all the soil to be replaced every couple of years.  To do that just isn’t sustainable or financially sensible.  The increased cost would be an unreasonable burden to place on ratepayers.

A much better option is to replace those gardens that aren’t performing well or are poorly placed with flowering shrubs and trees.  This can give a better result with more colour and shape.  Flowering shrubs and trees are better able to hide manhole covers and be seen behind parked cars than low-lying annuals.

I believe that what was agreed will give us a better result with more colour, and will actually save the council money as well.

For more including see Hutt City’s Website

One step closer for Hutt EnviroHouse

The Lower Hutt Envirohouse is one step closer. Last night Hutt City council approved initial funding of $20,000.

Presentations from Maungaraki School children gave convincing arguments to the Councillors of why Lower Hutt should have an environment house and why they were looking forward to it being in their back yard. Percy’s reserve is a perfect location to tie in with the conservation aspects of the reserve, and the house should be a great asset to the city.

Hutt proposes an environmental centre

Lower Hutt is considering establishing an EnviroHouse in the old caretakers house by the Dowse over bridge. It aspires to be a place were you can find practical tools and advice on areas such as power saving, gardening and saving water. You can meet with like-minded people to start projects, hear speakers or share tips.

Check out the website for more information or to show your support.

Nanatech

In this high-tech world, there is a new trend emerging in Lower Hutt. People from all walks of life are rediscovering a simpler time and simple pleasures like freshly baked bread, homemade preserves and freshly grown vegetables. As well as saving money, they are reducing their impact on the planet too.