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567 days ago

Autumn is our favourite time to weed...

Jenny from

Weeding is easiest and most rewarding once the days are cooler and soil becomes moist. Surrounding plants are not drought-stressed, and the weeds can be uprooted, cut or broken down without disturbing desired plants and new native seedlings.

For ecological restoration of a forest edge or mini-wilderness area, make sure you identify ALL your plants, big and small, wanted and unwanted, including the new ones that have appeared over summer.

Then, consider what will be the likely result from reducing or removing each of the weeds. Which ones first? How much to remove at once? What will replace them, and how quickly?

We can never be sure what Nature will do, but care and experience make the difference between producing an endless cycle of "tidy-ups" in unwelcoming conditions, and producing a haven of unique and unexpected beauty and birdsong, resilient to wind, rain and sun, and resistant to weed invasion.

In areas bordered by forest, our well-tested techniques of weed control support strong, diverse native revegetation, without chemicals or the need for planting.

As a forest edge is freed from weeds, native plant communities form spontaneously. Each native grass, moss, fern, shrub or vine finds its niche.

From ground level to the treetops, there is always something new to discover and watch, all the year round. However, the still, damp days of Autumn are the most lush. Bursting with potential for change: fallen branches creating room for growth; dry leaves and weeds becoming compost; dry bare earth yielding baby ferns and tree seedlings.

Autumn is a beautiful time to explore and enjoy the year's growth, while taking the next steps in restoration.

More messages from your neighbours
8 hours ago

$50 garden centre vouchers!

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Our winners this week have won $50 to spend at a local garden centre.
Congratulations to:

Cassie Arauzo from Cockle Bay

Elizabeth Williams from Hillcrest

Luke Shamy from Hornby

Mitchell Hopping from Wallacetown

Get in touch with our helpdesk team here if you're on this list! If you're not a winner, check back next week just in case.

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9 days ago

Poll: What special qualities should a 5-star New Zealand airport hotel at our largest international airport have?

Pullman Novotel

Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport is New Zealand’s only 5-star airport hotel, given its incredibly close proximity to the airport, the convenience of walking to the airport is a major highlight but there are plenty of other features that make it special. Find out more

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What special qualities should a 5-star New Zealand airport hotel at our largest international airport have?
  • 5% Unmatched runway views with a private lounge
    5% Complete
  • 45.4% Exceptional service from arrival to departure
    45.4% Complete
  • 5% Gourmet dining featuring New Zealand's finest, celebrating Te Ao Māori kai
    5% Complete
  • 37.9% A soundproof oasis with all desired amenities
    37.9% Complete
  • 6.7% Māori culture reflected throughout, creating an architectural marvel
    6.7% Complete
240 votes
1 day ago

Be Loved this Spring! Reduced fee dog adoptions at SPCA start today

The Team from SPCA Auckland - Centres & Op Shops

From 5-20 October only, SPCA dog and puppy adoption fees are 25% off. Plus, every dog adopter gets a free Simparica Trio flea, tick & worm treatment, and discount voucher.

We have more than 300 adoption-ready dogs and puppies nationwide, waiting for their happy forever after.

Visit www.spca.nz... to start your journey together.