Kōrero & Kaputi - Talk & Tea Tasting
In the beautiful setting of the historic Bell house, meet Helen Paul-Smith (Tapuika/Ngaiterangi), co-founder of artisan tea blenders ŌKU.
In this informal talk, delve into a sensory world, exploring the flavours and remarkable healing properties of Aotearoa’s native plants. Many of these rākau (plants) have a rich history of traditional use, helping to maintain ora (well-being). Along with more familiar herbs and ingredients, plants such as Kawakawa, Kūmarahou, Mānuka, Houhere, Akeake, Horopito, and Karamū, feature in her teas, elixirs and balms. Many of the plants used are hand-harvested and sourced in the wild, following strict protocol; OKU is conscious of being good kaitiaki (guardians) of the Whenua (land) in this emerging industry, ensuring its sustainability. Helen was Māori Women’s Development Inc Businesswoman of the Year 2022 for Sales & Marketing.
The session ends with a Q&A and the chance to sample ŌKU tea served in the Village’s vintage fine china teacups. Event duration approx. 1 hour. Tickets include entry to explore Howick Historical Village.
Bookings are essential. Book via Eventfinda or email village@historicalvillage.org.nz.
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.
Live Q&A: Garden maintenance with Crewcut
This Wednesday, we are having another Neighbourly Q&A session. This time with John Bracewell from Crewcut.
John Bracewell, former Black Caps coach turned Franchisee Development Manager and currently the face of Crewcut’s #Movember campaign, knows a thing or two about keeping the grass looking sharp—whether it’s on a cricket pitch or in your backyard!
As a seasoned Crewcut franchisee, John is excited to answer your lawn and gardening questions. After years of perfecting the greens on the field, he's ready to share tips on how to knock your garden out of the park. Let's just say he’s as passionate about lush lawns as he is about a good game of cricket!
John is happy to answer questions about lawn mowing, tree/hedge trimming, tidying your garden, ride on mowing, you name it! He'll be online on Wednesday, 27th of November to answer them all.
Share your question below now ⬇️
Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
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82.1% Yes
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15.1% No
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2.7% Other - I'll share below