We’re now at Alert Level 4. Stay home. Save lives.
Dear concerned citizen,
We must now all stay home. Because that’s how we’ll stop the virus.
Level 4 measures will likely be in place for a number of weeks.
Don’t worry. During that time you will still be able to access all the essentials you need, including medicine, food, and other home supplies.
ALL THE TIME, NO EXCEPTIONS
It’s incredibly important that we all follow the Level 4 plan, all the time. No exceptions. Because doing so will save lives.
A CHALLENGE FOR EVERYONE
We realise these are big changes. But these are challenging times.
If we don't all stay home, the whole country will need Level 4 restrictions for longer.
SUPPORT OUR EMERGENCY SERVICE PEOPLE
We owe it to the essential services. Our nurses, doctors and everyone else on the frontline. They’re working tirelessly to save lives. We should all do everything in our power to help them do this.
Thank you to each and every person, for doing their bit.
While you’re staying at home:
STAY CONNECTED
• Don’t let physical distance stop you staying connected. Keep in touch with people using video calls, phone calls, chat and texting.
• If you know people who are living alone, vulnerable, or separated from their loved ones, regularly check-in with them.
STAY WELL
• Continue to practice good hygiene – wash your hands with soap. Then dry.
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow.
• Regularly clean surfaces in your home with disinfectant.
• Keep up regular physical exercise, and get some fresh air when possible. It’s good so long as this is solitary, or only with those you live with.
REACH OUT
If you need advice, support or help, try reaching out to friends, family, whānau or workmates.
WE'RE UPDATING INFORMATION CONSTANTLY
For all the latest advice, including answers to your health and financial questions, go to Covid19.govt.nz.
And remember: what you do now, will help protect all of us.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
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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59.5% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26.2% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.3% ... It is complicated
Easter Extravaganza 2026
🎉 Get Ready for a Hopping Good Time at the Easter Extravaganza! 🐰🥚
Mark your calendars, the Easter Extravaganza 2026 at Howick Historical Village is happening on Sunday, 5 April 2026 from 10:00 am–3:00 pm! 🌼✨
This family‑friendly celebration in beautiful heritage surroundings promises plenty of fun for all ages:
🔎 Trail through historic cottages and gardens to solve clues and WIN a chocolate egg 🍫🐣
🐇 Meet the Easter Bunny and watch how aspiring bunnies are trained by the Easter Fairy in a live show 🎭
🎨 Crafts, face painting, games & races, and even a Bunny Boogie dance‑off to get everyone moving! 💃🐇
🍦 Grab treats from the gelato cart, enjoy a sausage sizzle, and explore the Village Farmers Market next door with artisan food and handmade goodies 🧺🍭
🎟️ Tickets:
• Adult $20
• Child $12
• Under 1 year FREE
Limited door sales - booking recommended!
Flower Pressing Workshop
Step back in time and discover the delicate Victorian art of flower pressing at Howick Historical Village.
Explore the gardens, gather flowers and foliage, and learn how to press and preserve them as keepsakes, just as the Victorians once did. Historical interpreter Ruth Page will guide you through the process and share tips for the best results.
📅 Dates:
• Saturday 21 March
• Saturday 28 March
• Saturday 11 April
• Saturday 18 April
⏰ 1:30–3:30pm
💲 Cost:
$28 (bring your own heavy book)
$42 (flower press included – yours to keep)
🎟 Includes entry to explore the Village (open 10am–4pm)
📩 Bookings essential – places are limited
A relaxing, creative afternoon surrounded by history and gardens — perfect for nature lovers and craft enthusiasts alike
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