Countdown won't sell fireworks this Guy Fawkes
A customer survey by the supermarket chain resulted in two in three respondents say they "rarely or never" bought fireworks for private use.
More than seven in 10 said the biggest reason they didn't do so was because of animal welfare, and about half cited fire safety. Environmental reasons were cited by 39 per cent, disturbing neighbours 34 per cent and personal safety 30 per cent. Countdown general manager merchandise, Scott Davidson, said declining interest and conversations with store teams led to the decision. "Our customers have told us that while they still love to celebrate special occasions such as Matariki, Diwali, Chinese New Year and Guy Fawkes, backyard fireworks at home are becoming less of an occasion than they used to be. "We've decided to leave it to the professionals and we think the vast majority of our customers and our team will agree with this." The move is supported by the SPCA, which earlier this year led a multi-agency study that found a majority of New Zealanders supported a ban on the public sale of fireworks. SPCA CEO Andrea Midgen said fireworks can be terrifying to animals. "Whether that's on Guy Fawkes night or at any other time of the year," she said. "Every year animals are injured, frightened, go missing or occasionally suffer abuse related to fireworks."
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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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59.3% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26.2% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.5% ... It is complicated
Poll: Should complete designs be shared with the public, or should the community help shape the designs from the start?
The Post recently shared an opinion piece on the Harbour Crossing and why a more democratic approach might be needed 🚗🚲👟
While most decisions sit within the political arena, many organisations—like NZTA—manage long-term projects that go beyond party lines. Politics can sometimes disrupt progress, and the next Harbour Crossing is a big decision that will affect all Aucklanders.
We’d love your thoughts: Should near-complete, shovel-ready designs be shared with the public, or should the community have a hand in shaping the designs from the start?
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80.4% Community feedback and transparency is needed.
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19.6% No. This would be impossible in practice.
Auckland Seniors & Travel Expo
Neighbourhood locals are invited to the Auckland Seniors & Travel Expo, a relaxed and welcoming event bringing lifestyle, leisure, and travel together under one roof. Meet 50+ exhibitors showcasing travel ideas, retirement living, mobility solutions, health services, finance, and local clubs. Enjoy live music from Kulios, café seating, door prizes, and be in to win a Luxury Beachfront Escape for Two to Rarotonga.
North Harbour Stadium
28 February & 1 March
10:00am – 3:00pm
$10 entry
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