Varicose veins can be treated without surgery.
Veins in your legs work against gravity to return blood to the heart, so it is helped along by tiny valves that stop the blood going backwards. These one-way valves can weaken, causing blood to pool, which leads to bulbous, protruding veins. The discomfort of varicose veins is often described as fatigue, heaviness, itching or even cramps.
Historically, treatment of varicose centred on surgical removal of varicose veins under general anaesthetic. However, endovenous catheter ablation has become so successful that surgery is seldom needed. Endovenous means "working inside the vein" and ablation means "to close off". Under local anaesthetic, a laser fibre is threaded into the varicose vein and used to close off the problem veins, prompting the blood to redirect itself. Compression stockings are worn for two weeks post-treatment and regular walking is recommended.
There is no need for time off work. If you have varicose veins that are affecting you call Vein & Laser for a consultation with our doctor, vein physician Elisabeth De Felice.
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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59.2% Yes, supporting people is important!
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25.6% No, individuals should take responsibility
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15.2% ... It is complicated
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
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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