Asif Hussain Member Banks Peninsula Community Board

19/09/2026

This little pigeon was caught having a feast on the tree lucerne in the .

A quiet moment in nature, with an unexpected visitor enjoying breakfast!

28/08/2026

New Zealand is facing a serious mental health crisis, with around 609,000 people now experiencing high or very high psychological distress - more than double the figure from a decade ago.

Young people are especially affected, with nearly 23% of 15–24-year-olds reporting significant distress, and the country recorded the highest child su***de rate among wealthy nations in 2025. Overall, the suspected su***de rate stands at 11.0 per 100,000 (630 deaths in 2024/25).

Wait times for telehealth support have grown significantly, and referrals to specialist services rose 10% in 2024/25, highlighting persistent gaps between demand and capacity. An estimated 456,000 adults still did not receive needed help in the past year.

Mental health is vital in rural communities. Talking Heads is a newly established community support group in Akaroa and Banks Peninsula, providing a safe, supportive and confidential space for anyone going through a difficult time or facing life challenges.

The people behind Talking Heads are highly dedicated and have a strong commitment to supporting the local community.

The group will meet fortnightly, with the first meeting scheduled for Tuesday, 8 September at 6.00 pm at Trinity Church Hall, Akaroa. Contact the group at [email protected]

Please come along, show your support, and help spread the word among your friends, family, community and wider networks. Sometimes, simply having a safe place to talk and knowing that someone is there to listen can make a real difference.

Everyone is welcome.

24/08/2026

A quick note to let you know that from 31 August 2026 to late September 2026. Monday to Friday, 7:30am to 5pm (weather/site condition dependent), Council has planned to fix uneven footpath and outdoor dining areas on Beach Road, Akaroa, to remove trip hazards and make it safer. Work will include the removal and replacement of existing paving stones to re-level the ground underneath.

For details visit: https://ccc.govt.nz/transport/works-3/show/2196

22/08/2026

We are greatful to have people like you in our community. Thank you!

https://www.facebook.com/100064802406726/posts/1533304302172969/?mibextid=rS40aB7S9Ucbxw6v

We celebrate the achievements of volunteer Richard Menzies CBE MStJ JP who recently completed 10 years service to Hato Hone St John. Rick, your community is very grateful for your massive contribution to improve rural health outcomes. 🚑 💛 🔟

08/08/2026

Beautiful sight on the Peninsula! 🐎

Tiffani, Larry and Big Boy (Bulbul) enjoying a run together across the Peninsula hills. What a lovely moment!

07/08/2026

🚧 It’s great to see progress on the ground as the rebuild moves forward.

04/08/2026

Beautiful snowfall up here at the cabstand. ❄️☃️ Everything is covered in a stunning blanket of white. Stay safe if you’re travelling and enjoy the winter magic! 🌨️

03/08/2026

❄️ Multiple roads across Banks Peninsula are currently closed due to snow. Please take extra care if you need to travel and avoid unnecessary journeys where possible.

The following roads have been reported as closed:
• Summit Road (Little Akaloa to Le Bons Bay)
• Goughs Bay Road
• Hickory Bay Road
• Long Bay Road
• Western Valley Road (Port Levy to Little River)
• Purau Port Levy Road

Please drive to the conditions, allow extra time, and stay safe. If you have updates from your area, feel free to share them in the comments to help keep the community informed.

01/08/2026

I welcome CCHL’s decision not to proceed with the proposal to lease the operation of Lyttelton Port. Lyttelton Port is a strategic asset of regional and national significance, playing a vital role in the prosperity of Christchurch, Canterbury and New Zealand.

Keeping the operation of the port under local ownership and governance helps ensure decisions are made with the long-term interests of our communities, economy and future generations in mind. I appreciate the careful consideration given to this matter and acknowledge everyone who contributed their views throughout the process.

A bid by global ports operator DP World and three Canterbury rūnanga to run Lyttelton Port has been rejected without being put to Christchurch city councillors.

01/08/2026

❄️ Please take care if you’re travelling on Summit Road or Long Bay Road today. There has been a decent dump of snow, and freezing conditions are making the roads slippery in places.

I have requested a service, which will take an hour or so.

If you’re heading out, drive to the conditions, allow extra time, and take care on the roads.

📸 Photo courtesy of a local resident.