Ahuriri Conservation Park, Ahuriri Conservation Park

Helping hand #resenetip

Helping hand #resenetip

Need to paint but need some help?  Resene Eco.Decorators can repaint your home with Eco Choice approved Resene paints.

271 days ago

The Sunday Star-Times Winter Puzzle Comp is Back!

Sunday Star Times

This July we have your chance to win a share of over $5,000 in New World gift vouchers! Simply grab your local newspaper, throw on your thinking cap, and complete the daily puzzle to be in to win.

Beginning on July 3, we will be placing a puzzle in your newspaper each day for a month. Complete … View more
This July we have your chance to win a share of over $5,000 in New World gift vouchers! Simply grab your local newspaper, throw on your thinking cap, and complete the daily puzzle to be in to win.

Beginning on July 3, we will be placing a puzzle in your newspaper each day for a month. Complete all 28 puzzles for a higher chance to WIN. Once you’ve figured it out, head over to stuff.co.nz/puzzletime to enter the solution and be in to win.

To find out more about participating newspapers, click here
Find out more

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272 days ago

Bright Spots is extended!

Resene

We've had such an amazing response to Bright Spots that we've decided to extend it for another week!

Now that it's the school holidays, why not get the kids or grandkids involved!

Celebrate the most colourful, quirky and joyful places in your community by snapping a photo or … View more
We've had such an amazing response to Bright Spots that we've decided to extend it for another week!

Now that it's the school holidays, why not get the kids or grandkids involved!

Celebrate the most colourful, quirky and joyful places in your community by snapping a photo or two of a Bright Spot and sharing it here. There are 10 prizes of $250 Resene ColorShop vouchers and $250 Prezzy® cards up for grabs so you can create your own Bright Spot!
Enter now

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275 days ago

Win this brand new Wānaka home!

Heart Foundation

For only $15 a ticket, you could win this fully furnished home in South Island’s stunning Wānaka!

Worth over $1.5 million and built to perfection by Jennian Homes, this brand new abode features four bedrooms, two bathrooms and boasts a stylish open-plan kitchen, living and dining area for … View more
For only $15 a ticket, you could win this fully furnished home in South Island’s stunning Wānaka!

Worth over $1.5 million and built to perfection by Jennian Homes, this brand new abode features four bedrooms, two bathrooms and boasts a stylish open-plan kitchen, living and dining area for year-round entertainment and comfort, plus incredible lake and mountain views!

Make this property your permanent residence, a holiday home, rent it or even sell it – it could be all yours for only $15! Be in to win by purchasing your tickets today.
Buy tickets

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276 days ago

Southern Community Labs’ name is changing

Awanui Labs

Hello – have you got a blood test coming up? We’re letting you know that your local laboratory, Southern Community Laboratories, and the lovely people that take your blood test, will soon be under a new name – Awanui Labs.

We’re at the same place, providing the same service, with the … View more
Hello – have you got a blood test coming up? We’re letting you know that your local laboratory, Southern Community Laboratories, and the lovely people that take your blood test, will soon be under a new name – Awanui Labs.

We’re at the same place, providing the same service, with the same smile, but under a new name.

The new name brings together our eight brands from across Aotearoa – from Northland to Southland. You can learn about what our new name means or find your nearest centre.
Find out more

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277 days ago

Are you lost without internet?

Telecommunications Dispute Resolution

The internet is a wonderful thing. It’s how many of us work, study and play. It’s a
big part of how we do what we do every day.

So, when we have issues with our broadband, it can be frustrating. Without it, we
can feel lost.

Tried trouble shooting? Tried talking to your provider? Still … View more
The internet is a wonderful thing. It’s how many of us work, study and play. It’s a
big part of how we do what we do every day.

So, when we have issues with our broadband, it can be frustrating. Without it, we
can feel lost.

Tried trouble shooting? Tried talking to your provider? Still stuck?
TDR can help you find your way. Visit www.tdr.org.nz to find out more.
Find out more

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283 days ago

A huge congratulations to Meg!

Prospa

A big thank you to everyone who nominated a small business in this year's Prospa Local Business Hero awards - and who got behind our 11 regional finalists and voted.

And a huge congratulations to Meg Wilson - the founder of PAWS (Pet Animal Welfare Shops) across South Waikato! Meg's … View more
A big thank you to everyone who nominated a small business in this year's Prospa Local Business Hero awards - and who got behind our 11 regional finalists and voted.

And a huge congratulations to Meg Wilson - the founder of PAWS (Pet Animal Welfare Shops) across South Waikato! Meg's passion for pets received almost 20% of votes which has seen her walk away with a prize package worth $10,000 to support the work she and her team of volunteers do each day.

Thank you Neighbourly members for rallying around businesses in your community and continuing to show them how valued they are!

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297 days ago

Seniors Newsletter

The Team from Office for Seniors

Our June Seniors newsletter is out today. In this issue, we focus on the cost of living. We share some practical advice on how to save money on your health, home and everyday expenses plus much more.

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285 days ago

Last chance to buy tickets!

Heart Foundation

Lottery closing soon! Buy your tickets today for a chance to win this brand new, fully furnished home in stunning Taupō.

Worth over $1 million and built to perfection by Jennian Homes, this brand new home features three bedrooms, two bathrooms and boasts a stylish open-plan kitchen, living and… View more
Lottery closing soon! Buy your tickets today for a chance to win this brand new, fully furnished home in stunning Taupō.

Worth over $1 million and built to perfection by Jennian Homes, this brand new home features three bedrooms, two bathrooms and boasts a stylish open-plan kitchen, living and dining area for year-round entertainment and comfort.

Situated a short three-minute drive from the shores of Lake Taupō, make this property your permanent residence, a holiday home, rent it or even sell it – it could be all yours for only $15! Be in to win by purchasing your tickets today.
Find Out More

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286 days ago

One week left to vote in Love Your Local Awards

The Team from Love Your Local

You nominated your most-loved locals - now it’s time to vote! We’ve managed to whittle down over a thousand nominations into regional finalists, so we need to know who deserves to win. Regional winners will go into the running for national titles, as judged by a panel led by Peter Gordon, so … View moreYou nominated your most-loved locals - now it’s time to vote! We’ve managed to whittle down over a thousand nominations into regional finalists, so we need to know who deserves to win. Regional winners will go into the running for national titles, as judged by a panel led by Peter Gordon, so make sure to get your votes in.

Head to stuff.co.nz/loveyourlocal to cast your votes, and go into the draw to win a Restaurant Association voucher.
Vote now

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287 days ago

Early Childhood Educator Positions

Curious Minds

At Curious Minds Early Learning, Queenstown, we see creative imaginings, we hear curious minds wrapped in a korowai of collective harmony. We support our tamariki and whānau to realise their dreams.

Our newly renovated and resourced spaces will inspire the curious mind, while enjoying mountain… View more
At Curious Minds Early Learning, Queenstown, we see creative imaginings, we hear curious minds wrapped in a korowai of collective harmony. We support our tamariki and whānau to realise their dreams.

Our newly renovated and resourced spaces will inspire the curious mind, while enjoying mountain views and soft grass on our private roof top location in the heart of Five Mile Retail Center. We are part of our family owned and managed Wellington Childcare consisting of 3 beautiful childcare centers in Wellington. The center is licensed to accommodate up 80 children aged from 6 months to 5 years.

We are looking for early childhood trained and certified teachers to join our team. The right person needs to be energetic, passionate, enthusiastic and a team player. We are proud to offer pay parity extended rates, supportive hands-on management support, a mentoring programme (PCT), and professional development.

Accommodation is available for the right applicant.

Please email a copy of your current CV and cover letter, along with your practicing certificate to qt-manager@curiousmindsearlylearning.co.nz
Find out more

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287 days ago

Have you got a great family recipe for cauliflower?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Dear neighbours, every month, NZ Gardener runs a series of reader recipes using a seasonal crop. This month, we're on the hunt for cauliflower recipes! Send your best ones to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz by June 25, 2023. Every published recipe wins a copy of the August issue of NZ Gardener.

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291 days ago

Attention! Why Your Insurance Premiums are on the rise!

The Team from NZ Compare

Hey Neighbours, don't let rising living costs and surging insurance premiums in 2023 leave you uninsured! Renewing your policies without first checking if the price has increased, could lead to bigger bills. Let's avoid that!

Explore alternative insurance providers now. Money CompareView more
Hey Neighbours, don't let rising living costs and surging insurance premiums in 2023 leave you uninsured! Renewing your policies without first checking if the price has increased, could lead to bigger bills. Let's avoid that!

Explore alternative insurance providers now. Money Compare consolidates all major insurers and their key features in one place, making searching for new providers easy. They offer fantastic deals like one month of FREE car insurance, PLUS a helpful team to assist you in reviewing your health and life insurance coverage, to ensure you're on the best policy. Take charge of your insurance today by reviewing your policies!
LEARN MORE

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291 days ago

Last chance to buy tickets!

Heart Foundation

Lottery closing soon! Buy your tickets today for a chance to win this brand new, fully furnished home in stunning Taupō.

Worth over $1 million and built to perfection by Jennian homes, this brand new home features three bedrooms, two bathrooms and boasts a stylish open-plan kitchen, living and… View more
Lottery closing soon! Buy your tickets today for a chance to win this brand new, fully furnished home in stunning Taupō.

Worth over $1 million and built to perfection by Jennian homes, this brand new home features three bedrooms, two bathrooms and boasts a stylish open-plan kitchen, living and dining area for year-round entertainment and comfort.

Situated a short three-minute drive from the shores of Lake Taupō, make this property your permanent residence, a holiday home, rent it or even sell it – it could be all yours for only $15! Be in to win by purchasing your tickets today.
Find Out More

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295 days ago

Your adventures change, the fees won’t

The Team from Ryman Healthcare

When you move to a Ryman village, the last thing you need to think about are unexpected costs. We offer financial security with rates, home insurance, exterior maintenance and gardening all covered under one fixed base weekly fee*, meaning once you’ve moved in you can focus on the things you … View moreWhen you move to a Ryman village, the last thing you need to think about are unexpected costs. We offer financial security with rates, home insurance, exterior maintenance and gardening all covered under one fixed base weekly fee*, meaning once you’ve moved in you can focus on the things you enjoy.

Find out more about our living options today and get ready for a new lifestyle.

*some conditions apply
Learn more

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295 days ago

All electric, fossil free farm down to entrepreneur thinking, 'under the hood' Kiwi ingenuity and a diesel tractor

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Otago News

From reporter Olivia Caldwell:

The irony is, Mike Casey owes his world first fossil free and all electric farming title to a tiny worn old diesel engine Iseki tractor.

The Wellingtonian entrepreneur isn’t a farmer by trade, he is a software engineer who got sick of the city life in Sydney, … View more
From reporter Olivia Caldwell:

The irony is, Mike Casey owes his world first fossil free and all electric farming title to a tiny worn old diesel engine Iseki tractor.

The Wellingtonian entrepreneur isn’t a farmer by trade, he is a software engineer who got sick of the city life in Sydney, moved to Central Otago and bought 9300 cherry trees.

“This was definitely an over compensation from living in the concrete jungle of Sydney for a long time, to moving to rural New Zealand. I think I can almost hold a conversation with a farmer now,” he says.

His final step to becoming all electric was introducing New Zealand’s only electric tractor to the orchard, but he couldn't wait for the flash, shiny $165,000 import from California due to arrive.

A combination of Casey’s entrepreneurial climate driven brain, and some plain old “Kiwi ingenuity under an engine hood” had this 39-year-old become a world leader.

As far as he knows, this convert is New Zealand’s first electric tractor, and he’s been using the Iseki 318 for a year on his orchard while he sought out a more modern flavour. It did the job, he says.

Arriving this month is a Monarch commercial electric tractor, which is 30 horsepower equivalent and is fully automated, and cost around $165,000.

He received a grant from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority, which also helped with electric frost fighting fans from South Africa.

The Monarch is only the 66th off the shelves in the US and the first ever exported, so Casey is hoping to start a trend in New Zealand.

“My goal is when farmers come to see this electric tractor they are blown away by its capabilities.

“Power in New Zealand can be really cheap and much cheaper than diesel.

“On orchard we would use our tractor for probably 300 hours a year depending on the season. But if it is free or autonomous, what’s stopping us using these tractors for more things. Maybe we could use it for 1000 hours and become better farmers and have more yield.”

Casey will use the new tractor for just about everything on his small orchard. Spraying, mowing, weeding and even gathering data on his trees into an app call Fruit Minder, so he can constantly use power wisely and better his emissions.

When he and wife Rebecca arrived, the orchard ticked up an annual energy bill of $60,000. By ditching the fossil fuelled engines and going electric they brought the bill down to $21,000. Then after adding solar power and battery energy their total now sits around $3000.

“We were never intending to go fossil fuel free, but low and behold, every purchasing decision we went down we found we could find an electric option around the world, or we could build some of that technology ourselves.”

“So now here are standing here on I think the first zero fossil fuel farm in the world.”

They didn’t really plan on the farm thing either, but Casey takes life in its stride, and he was too ignorant to cave to Wānaka’s climbing and often out of reach land value.

“We were looking for places in the region, and we found this farm that was 9 hectares of land and had the ideal house for the same price as a four-bedroom house in Wānaka.”


“All of a sudden I had all this land. Then I thought what better way to address the climate than to plant 9300 trees, so I planted 9300 cherry trees.”

The switch from fuels to electric has saved the farm about 60 tonnes of emissions per year. They now do 2.5 tonnes using fertiliser and nitrates. His trees sequester about 3.8 tonnes a year.

Casey has also written software that, by calculating the price of power on the wholesale spot price market, would decide if the fans would be run from the grid or from batteries.

The orchard is close to having a net-zero energy bill, including line charges.

He aims to fully remove herbicides and eventually move towards organic, which is hard to do with cherries, he says.

“We are going to start making steps in that direction.”

Casey doesn't believe in a system which rewards farmers for “good behaviour” such as the government’s “carbon credits”.

“With carbon-neutral certification there the ability to pay to sweep your bad behaviour under a rug, so I don’t promote that.

“I more talk about how we have eliminated the fossil fuels entirely because the only way we are going to solve the climate crisis is getting off fossil fuels.”

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