1826 days ago

New Year Honours: New Zealand's top scientist Dr Juliet Gerrard becomes a dame

Caroline Williams Reporter from Central Leader

Asked how she feels about being made a dame, Dr Juliet Gerrard​ is somewhat lost for words, an unfamiliar position for the woman whose job is distilling the most up-to-date scientific information for those making the decisions that will shape our future.

Gerrard, currently Jacinda Ardern’s chief science advisor, has been named a Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit​ in the New Year Honours.

While she hasn’t really processed what it means on a personal level, it hasn’t stopped the Freemans Bay resident from sharing the news with her 75-year-old mum in the United Kingdom, who got a kick out of getting the good news on her birthday.

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More messages from your neighbours
3 days ago

Poll: Do you set New Year’s resolutions?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

🎉 2026 is almost here!

We’re curious ... how do you welcome it?
Do you set resolutions, follow special traditions, or just go with the flow?

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Do you set New Year’s resolutions?
  • 10.5% Yes! New Year, New Me
    10.5% Complete
  • 19.7% Yes - but I rarely stick to them
    19.7% Complete
  • 69.7% Nah - not for me
    69.7% Complete
770 votes
15 days ago

Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Ministry of Social Development is reporting that fake information is circulating about new ‘December bonuses’ or ‘benefit increases’

If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.

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10 hours ago

Here's wishing you a TERRIFIC and FANTASTIC 2026

Brian from Mount Roskill

Compliments of the Season.
Best wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous NEW YEAR. I sincerely pray that GOD will bless each one of you and your family with good health, more wealth, endless joy, love and happiness in 2026 and the many many years ahead. STAY BLESSED.