Scared of rats in your compost? Try this trick.

Scared of rats in your compost? Try this trick.

I recently opened the lid of my compost bin to find a startled mouse (or young rat, more likely) dining out on the latest load of food scraps. It’s no surprise that it chose this spot as the nights grow cooler – with underfloor heating (from the composting...
Compost bins and worm farms: a review of the options

Compost bins and worm farms: a review of the options

There are multiple reasons why councils around the country want to keep food waste out of the landfill — to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, to benefit soil health, and to extend the life of landfills. The two broad options are to put your food waste out for community...
Urban planning is key to high quality cities

Urban planning is key to high quality cities

Introduction David Jackson worked in central and local government, as well as consultancy.  He has a strong interest in urban planning and design, neighbourhood and centres development planning, as well as how to develop longer term plans that work and are useful.In...
How to run a successful RMA hearing process

How to run a successful RMA hearing process

IntroductionDavid McMahon is an accredited Independent Hearing Commissioner and resource management consultant at RMG with particular expertise in statutory planning and process. He has been a Commissioner since 2001, and has worked on a large number of...