.
Stores in appeal
Both Countdown stores in Whanganui have joined the Countdown nationwide annual Kids Hospital Appeal. It's the first year Whanganui Hospital has been involved.
'H'added
The Wanganui-Rangitikei-Waimarino Cancer Society is to change its name. An 'h' has been added to the spelling of Whanganui.
House prices grow
House price growth reached
13 per cent in Manawatū -Whanganui in May, according to Kiwibank economist Jarrod Kerr. Baby boomers cashing up and moving to the regions had caused "a flood of interest from northerners on a southern pilgrimage". " The exodus has boosted the housing markets in Manawatū-Whanganui." Younger Aucklanders are also moving.
New era for bags
Plastic checkout bags will not be offered in New World, Pak'nSave and Four Square stores from January 1 next year, managing director Steve Anderson says. From October the stores will increase their focus on reusable bags. Anderson doesn't expect any customer backlash as Kiwis were ready for it.
Castlecliff plans
People have less than two weeks to submit on future plans for the Castlecliff Coastal Reserve. Copies are available at www.whanganui.govt.nz, or at the council office or libraries. Submissions close at 5pm on Friday, August 17.
