Seeking Volunteers
If you’re interested in paying forward, here's an opportunity.
Manukau East Council of Social Services (MECOSS), is seeking volunteer drivers and companions for its Manukau East Shopping Shuttle.
Every Thursday, the shuttle takes people, who often live alone or no longer drive, to Botany Town Centre or Pakuranga Plaza for shopping and a cuppa.
Drivers are mainly responsible for arranging the times and routes for pick-ups and delivering their passengers safely.
Companion’s help clients get into and out of the vehicle and assist with seatbelts.
And if required, a walker or scooter can be booked for passengers to use at the shopping centres.
This daily-life activity has far reaching benefits for our passengers including;
1). Stimulating cognitive processes e.g. enabling passengers to ask questions when determining where items can be obtained, evaluate and compare before and after purchase, and determine value as compared to cost
2). Providing physical benefits e.g. walking around the shopping mall.
3). Function as a leisure pursuit that promotes social engagement e.g. chatting with other passengers and forming friendships.
Perhaps the most appealing aspect of shopping as a life-enriching activity is that it can be enjoyed by most people - even those who may have health problems.
When required and with a little help from our volunteers, people with mobility or transportation challenges can experience the cognitive, health, and social benefits a day on the town can provide.
For further information please call 0800 632 677.
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?
-
59.5% Yes, supporting people is important!
-
25.9% No, individuals should take responsibility
-
14.6% ... It is complicated
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?
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.
Loading…
