Costly end to Arkles Bay pōhutukawa tree fiasco
Hi neighbours. The Arkles Bay pōhutukawa trees that were poisoned at the end of last year have been replaced by three new trees. The care of the old trees, and then the removal, purchase and planting of the new trees, and the installation of protective bollards cost Auckland Council a whopping $50,000. The culprits were never identified by police or council. If caught, they could have been fined between $300-600K.
Auckland Council doesn't have any specific numbers on native tree poisonings in the region, but we find ourselves reporting cases frequently. Have you had trees near your home poisoned? Let us know in the comments.
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Poll: As a customer, what do you think about automation?
The Press investigates the growing reliance on your unpaid labour.
Automation (or the “unpaid shift”) is often described as efficient ... but it tends to benefit employers more than consumers.
We want to know: What do you think about automation?
Are you for, or against?
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9.5% For. Self-service is less frustrating and convenient.
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43.5% I want to be able to choose.
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47% Against. I want to deal with people.
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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