1747 days ago

Stowaway mouse snared by biosecurity dog

Caryn Wilkinson Reporter from Community News

A stowaway mouse has prompted a warning for people to check their gear carefully before visiting Auckland's Hauraki Gulf.

The caution follows capture of the creature which was hoping to spend a relaxing weekend on an island in the gulf.

The mouse was spotted darting out of a passenger's bag and scurrying onto a pest-free warranted vessel.

“This is a timely reminder of why bio-security practices are so important and why we ask passengers and boaties to check their gear carefully before heading out onto the gulf,” said Hauraki Gulf bio-security manager Liz Brooks.

“Most of the gulf islands are pest free and home to a wide range of rare and endangered birds. The “check, clean, close” message is a serious one and there to help protect those native birds.’

The mouse remained at large for three days, eluding all attempts of capture before Auckland Council's bio-security team called in Rosie the rodent detection dog.

She uncovered a chewed glove in the passenger's bag where the mouse had been living.

Rosie soon tracked down the mouse's hiding place, traps were set and the stowaway was caught.

"We were lucky the mouse was spotted before it had the opportunity to get onshore on one of the many pest-free islands," said dog handler Kerryn Johnson.

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More messages from your neighbours
1 hour ago

Night-time chipsealing works on SH2

NZ Transport Agency (NZTA)

From 9 to 17 February, stop/go traffic management will be in place on SH2 between McPherson Road and Dimmock Road on multiple nights between 9pm and 5am (Sundays to Thursdays).

During the day, all lanes will be open, but speed restrictions will apply to allow the chipseal to set and to protect vehicles travelling over the newly laid surface.

There may be delays to your journey when travelling through the area. This is weather dependent so check NZTA Journey Planner before you travel.
Click to find out more

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1 day ago

Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙

One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.

So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?

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Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
  • 60.8% Yes, supporting people is important!
    60.8% Complete
  • 23.5% No, individuals should take responsibility
    23.5% Complete
  • 15.7% ... It is complicated
    15.7% Complete
319 votes
2 days ago

A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

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?

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