Countdown customers in Auckland and Christchurch will be allowed to use their own containers for over-the-counter items from Monday,
The service, which includes deli, meat and seafood counters, will be available for 18 stores in Christchurch, Amberley, Kaiapoi, Rangiora and Rolleston stores, and Auckland's Mt Eden and Mt Roskill stores. It comes after Foodstuff last month announced New World, Pak’nSave and Four Square stores in the North Island would accept customers' own containers. "We know that BYO containers are an option many of our customers are looking for in their drive to reduce single-use plastic," Countdown general manager corporate affairs, safety and sustainability Kiri Hannifin said. "We've already received lots of requests from concerned Kiwis wanting us to give them this option. "The priority for us is to ensure that food safety is not compromised and that more waste isn't created as a result. "Part of our service will include training our team, making sure containers are clean and leak proof, and ensuring that containers are weighed correctly to ensure customers are only paying for the weight of the product they've purchased." The new service will be trialled in the Christchurch and Auckland stores before being rolled out nationwide.
===========================================================
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
.
Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
-
84% Yes
-
14.7% No
-
1.3% Other - I'll share below
Spring gardening tips
Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcare’s Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. You’ll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and let’s dig in.
Click read more for more information.
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.