Hunker down, Auckland!
MetService have issued a strong wind warning and heavy rain watch for Auckland. Already ferries have been cancelled, there are power outages and drivers are being cautioned about driving in these conditions. From 3pm, a severe thunderstorm watch is in place, as well as a strong wind watch until 8pm on Friday night.
Here's what you need to know:
- All Pine Harbour ferry services have now been cancelled until further notice, due to weather conditions. The 7am, 8am & 9am Pine Harbour to Auckland services will be replaced by Bus.
- Areas of North Auckland around Te Arai are without power as of 6.20am on Friday. Some areas near the Auckland border have had power cuts since at least 3am on Friday.
- Drivers heading over the Auckland Harbour Bridge advised by Waka Kotahi NZTA to watch out for strong gusts and wind. Commuters should drive to the conditions, look out for full bridge closures, and stay within their lane while travelling across the bridge. High-sided vehicles and motorcyclists should avoid the Harbour Bridge and use the Western Ring Route on State Highways 16 and 18.
Keep up to date with weather warnings on the MetService website and be cautious if travelling this Auckland Anniversary weekend.
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.
Warnings about scams
This Fraud Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone to stay sharp and look out for the warning signs of scams to stop them before they start.
Here’s what to watch out for:
🔍 Unrealistic offers or promises of easy money that are too good to be true
🔍 Pressure tactics: Scammers may rush or threaten you to act immediately.
🔍 Requests for personal info: Be cautious if you’re asked for bank details, passwords, or sensitive information.
🔍 Unusual payment methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
🔍 Unverified contacts: Emails, calls, or messages from unknown or suspicious sources.
How to protect yourself:
✅ Stop and think before sharing personal details or making payments.
✅ Don't click on any links until you know that it is safe.
✅ Verify the source: Contact the organisation directly using official channels.
✅ If something’s not right, it's OK to hang up, walk away, ignore it and move on.
If you wish to report a scam, contact Police on 105 or report it online via 105.police.govt.nz/use-105.
Tactile texture
Welcome texture into your room by using leftover Resene Anaglypta wallpaper to accentuate furniture and décor items. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.