Volunteer with Samaritans
Kia ora koutou,
My name's Leola and I've been a volunteer with Samaritans Manawatū for three years now. For those of you who haven't heard of Samaritans before, we're part of a global organisation who provide listening services to people who are distressed, suicidal, and lonely. Primarily we do this through our 24/7 phone line, and we can do shifts both from our office and from home. The Manawatū branch was first established in the 1970s and remains a vibrant and diverse organisation, with people of multiple ages, cultures, and backgrounds.
We're on the look out for keen new volunteers, who have big hearts and want to make a difference in the world. No specific skills are required, just a willingness to listen and be compassionate to those in need. Training is flexible and we do our best to support volunteers every step of the way. When you join Samaritans, you also join a wonderful family of like-minded people, who care not only for our callers but for each other and our communities.
Want to learn more or even sign up? You can send me a message here, or email me at manawatu@samaritans.org.nz. Look forward to hearing from you.
Best wishes,
Leola
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)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84% Yes
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14.7% No
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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.