Chemical incident in industrial area of Penrose, South Auckland
Approximately 5,000 litres of methyl methacrylate was released from storage at a specialist chemical business on Industrial Road in Penrose earlier today.
Auckland Council staff, including environmental health and pollution experts, have been at the scene since it was reported. They are working with Fire and Emergency NZ, and have been consulting with Auckland Regional Public Health.
Auckland Regional Public Health Service’s Medical Officer of Health Dr David Sinclair says although the health risk is currently assessed as low, people should take a precautionary approach and close doors and windows if they can smell the chemical. The main potential health effects are eye, skin or respiratory irritation.
“If you work in this industrial zone you may also need to keep doors and windows closed tomorrow too.
“If you have any further concerns, please contact Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice,” Dr Sinclair says.
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.
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
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.