Torrential rain and thunderstorms across Auckland
The severe weather is causing hazardous conditions across Auckland with torrential rain and surface flooding, thunderstorms, and gusts of 90 km/h in exposed areas.
Emergency services are assisting with incidents including vehicle collisions, a submerged car in Northcote and a collapsed roof at Point Chevalier Countdown.
Orewa College and Red Beach School have closed for the day and moved towards online learning due to the heavy weather in north Auckland causing a health and safety issue.
More than 4000 lighting strikes have been recorded in Auckland and lower Northland from 7am to 8am, and more than 700 in five minutes.
Police are urging motorists to take care when driving, slow down and drive to the conditions looking out for potential hazards until conditions ease.
Stay up to date with the forecast on the MetService Website.
Spring gardening tips
Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcare’s Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. You’ll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and let’s dig in.
Click read more for more information.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84.6% Yes
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13.9% No
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1.5% Other - I'll share below
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.