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💃 FREE COMMUNITY ZUMBA PARTY IN MT EDEN’S BACKYARD! 🕺
We’re bringing the FREE Zumba Dance Party to Mt Roskill War Memorial Hall
🗓️ This Thursday | 8 PM – 9 PM
Just a quick hop from Mt Eden Village (yes, you can still grab an almond croissant after! 🥐) — we’re calling all Central Auckland legends to come shake it like you mean it … View moreWe’re bringing the FREE Zumba Dance Party to Mt Roskill War Memorial Hall
🗓️ This Thursday | 8 PM – 9 PM
Just a quick hop from Mt Eden Village (yes, you can still grab an almond croissant after! 🥐) — we’re calling all Central Auckland legends to come shake it like you mean it 💥
Are you in?
✨ “Yes! My sneakers are already tapping!”
😅 “Maybe – let me check with my couch.”
🙈 “No – stuck in traffic on Dominion Road… emotionally.”
📲 Text “I’m in” to 0221232018 to RSVP
Tag your local bestie – let’s turn Thursday night into a mini Mt Eden fiesta!
Hooked on Resene: Find the marlin at the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show and win!
You’ll find many fun activities and sights at the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show but there’s one that might catch your eye with its colourful and captivating design! Mural artist Marc Spijkerbosch has painted a giant marlin mural with Resene paints as part of the Hooked on Resene competition,… View moreYou’ll find many fun activities and sights at the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show but there’s one that might catch your eye with its colourful and captivating design! Mural artist Marc Spijkerbosch has painted a giant marlin mural with Resene paints as part of the Hooked on Resene competition, and if you spot it, you could be in to win!
All you have to do is find the Hooked on Resene mural, take your photo with it, share your photo to social media with a hashtag #HookedOnResene #HutchwilcoBoatShow and you have a chance to win with Resene and the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show.
Plus, Resene staff will be by the mural at selected hours each day with giveaways for those having their photo taken!
For more information about the show and what’s on, visit The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show online.
We’ll see you there! Show ends Sunday 18 May.
Poll: Has your Kiwisaver taken a dip?
With the US tariffs ramping up and the stock market taking a hit, many are noticing a change in their Kiwisaver amounts.
If you've had a peek at your Kiwisaver balance since, have you seen it decrease?
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82.3% Yes, it's decreased
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14.5% Nope
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3.2% Other - I'll share below
Inland Revenue taking tougher line on student loan debtors
Inland Revenue is taking a tougher stance on overseas-based student loan defaulters, including border arrests.
More than 70% of 113,733 overseas borrowers are in default, owing $2.3 billion.
Since July, Inland Revenue collected $207 million, a 43% increase, from overseas borrowers.
… View moreInland Revenue is taking a tougher stance on overseas-based student loan defaulters, including border arrests.
More than 70% of 113,733 overseas borrowers are in default, owing $2.3 billion.
Since July, Inland Revenue collected $207 million, a 43% increase, from overseas borrowers.
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The arrest of a person arriving at the border last month over unpaid student loan debt is an example of Inland Revenue “making up for lost time”, one tax expert says.
Inland Revenue said at the end of April there were 113,733 people with student loans believed to be based overseas. More than 70% were in default on their loans, owing $2.3 billion, of which more than $1b is penalties and interest.
For about 24,000 of these overseas-based borrowers, the debt is more than 15 years old.
Inland Revenue has been taking a tougher line, including arrests at the border as a “measure of last resort”.
“New Zealand Customs informs us of any border crossings into New Zealand by overseas-based borrowers and airlines provide the travel information to us. We apply to the district court and the police make the actual arrest,” spokeswoman Jane Elley said.
“Once arrested and taken before the courts, a judge can order the defaulter to make reasonable efforts to arrange repayment to Inland Revenue.”
Since July 1 last year, 89 people had been told they could be arrested at the border. Eleven had taken action by either making acceptable payments, entering repayment plans or applying for hardship provisions.
“One person was arrested at the border last month and they have since paid off their debt.
“There are just over 150 overseas-based borrowers, with a combined default of $15m, who we actively look out for in case they return to New Zealand.”
Elley said Inland Revenue had collected more than $207m in repayments since July last year from student loan borrowers living overseas – a 43% increase on the same period the previous year.
Inland Revenue had an increase in student loan compliance funding in last year’s Budget.
“We’ve contacted more than 12,000 borrowers, 1320 have entered repayment plans, and 960 people have fully repaid their overdue amounts. They have collectively repaid $9m,” Elley said.
She said the department was also looking at borrowers who owned property in New Zealand. There were just over 300, she said.
“During the first six months of our increased compliance work they paid up $1.7m. For defaulters within this group who have refused to engage and resolve their default, further legal enforcement action will be taken, which may include NZ-based bankruptcy or charging orders over their properties.
“There were also 151 [borrowers] with NZ-based investments, and between July and December last year we received payments totalling $84,000 from some of them. Again, there could be legal action ahead, including taking deductions from their investments or bank accounts receiving interest income.”
Robyn Walker, a tax partner at Deloitte, said it was another example of where Inland Revenue had been dormant for a while and was now making up for lost time.
“In the past there has seemingly been very little effort applied to contacting overseas-based student loan defaulters, and ... many of them ... probably were blissfully unaware of mounting repayment liabilities, penalties and interest if Inland Revenue had difficulty contacting them.
“We’ve periodically heard the stories of borrowers being arrested at the border, and it’s actions like that which can really spur people on to get on top of their obligations.
“No one wants to not be able to come back to New Zealand for a special event or family emergency because they’re concerned that their student loan will catch up with them.”
Ryman Village Open Days
Come and experience the warmth of our Ryman village communities, we'd love to show you around. Discover our lifestyle and care options, tour our show homes and explore our premium amenities.
Plus, when you sign up for an independent apartment or townhouse before 30 June 2025 you … View moreCome and experience the warmth of our Ryman village communities, we'd love to show you around. Discover our lifestyle and care options, tour our show homes and explore our premium amenities.
Plus, when you sign up for an independent apartment or townhouse before 30 June 2025 you won't pay your base weekly fee for a whole year.*
*Participating villages only, Ts and Cs apply.
Jag for sale: 1998 XJ8 in good condition
Jag for sale: 1998 XJ8 in good condition
255K's; great mechanical condition with recent service report; excellent condition inside and out but for a couple of paint blemishes and small ding - see in pics. $12K ONO
Heads or Tails?
Be in to WIN a once-in-a-lifetime experience for a young Blues fan!
Tell us why your youngster should be the special coin toss guest at the next Blues home game.
The Prize includes:
- Tossing the coin with the referee and team captains.
- x2 Silver Stand tickets so you and your child can … View moreBe in to WIN a once-in-a-lifetime experience for a young Blues fan!
Tell us why your youngster should be the special coin toss guest at the next Blues home game.
The Prize includes:
- Tossing the coin with the referee and team captains.
- x2 Silver Stand tickets so you and your child can watch the game.
- x2 food & beverage vouchers
- x1 goodie bag and blues jersey.
- Visiting the commentary box
- Being taken to the field side-line where you can watch the team warm-up.
Terms and conditions apply
Poll: Is the air fryer replacing the humble oven?
Air fryers have surged in popularity in recent years, with their uses expanding well beyond chips — from cooking meats to baking desserts.
Do you think the air fryer could ever replace the traditional oven?
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36.8% Yes, I prefer to use my air fryer
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62.1% No, ovens are here to stay
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1% Other - I'll share below
What's one Kiwi song you'll never get sick of?
It's NZ Music Month and singer-songwriter Lorde is impressing the world again with a new single called 'What Was That' which is at number one in the US Spotify charts and second in the New Zealand charts.
Let's celebrate all of our homegrown talent this month, share one Kiwi … View moreIt's NZ Music Month and singer-songwriter Lorde is impressing the world again with a new single called 'What Was That' which is at number one in the US Spotify charts and second in the New Zealand charts.
Let's celebrate all of our homegrown talent this month, share one Kiwi song that you still absolutely love?
OPENS THURSDAY 22nd, 180+ exhibitors at the Auckland Home and Garden Show
Doors open Thursday 22nd to this iconic event! Check it all out with a special Neighbourly 2 for 1 ticket offer
It’s all about idea’s, inspiration, innovation and exclusive show specials at the Auckland Home and Garden Show on Thursday the 22nd to Sunday the 25th of May at Eden Park! Join … View moreDoors open Thursday 22nd to this iconic event! Check it all out with a special Neighbourly 2 for 1 ticket offer
It’s all about idea’s, inspiration, innovation and exclusive show specials at the Auckland Home and Garden Show on Thursday the 22nd to Sunday the 25th of May at Eden Park! Join the fun with our 2 for 1 Adult Ticket Offer.
There are so many fabulous reasons to visit the show with 180+ exhibitors showcasing a huge variety for your homes, gardens and lifestyle. Featuring everything kitchens, bathrooms, landscaping & plants, home maintenance, flooring, artisan foods, artists, spas, homewares, solar solutions and so much more!
Join Resident Builder Peter Wolfkamp at one of the many free Ask an Expert sessions. Enjoy a delicious variety of street food, get creative with Resene Paint a Pot, with awesome giveaways from the team at Resene for the kids. There is something for everyone at the Show.
Doors open Thursday 22nd to Sunday at Eden Park, the Auckland Home & Garden Show.
Thu, Fri & Sat 10 – 5, Sun 10 – 4
Eden Park
Adults $5
Gold Card Thursday and Friday $2.50
Under 16 free .
Age Well Kiwi
There is a lack of support for the elderly in our communities due to our ageing population, and more seniors living alone. We need more people and resources to advocate and address the social, emotional and physical needs of our seniors, and promote positive and healthy ageing.
If you are … View moreThere is a lack of support for the elderly in our communities due to our ageing population, and more seniors living alone. We need more people and resources to advocate and address the social, emotional and physical needs of our seniors, and promote positive and healthy ageing.
If you are interested to support this social cause, and contribute your ideas, knowledge, experience, talents and resources, we would love to hear from you. Please contact us at agewellkiwi@gmail.com.
Thank you.
Mabel
Poll: Do you support the recent pay equity change?
The Government has rushed through changes to the Equal Pay Act that will now make it harder for workers to make claims of unfair pay based on gender discrimination.
The move will save billions for the government's budget but will scrap 33 existing pay equity claims affecting over 150,000 … View moreThe Government has rushed through changes to the Equal Pay Act that will now make it harder for workers to make claims of unfair pay based on gender discrimination.
The move will save billions for the government's budget but will scrap 33 existing pay equity claims affecting over 150,000 workers in traditionally female-dominated roles like teachers and support workers.
Do you support this new change?
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26.6% Yes
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72.8% No
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0.6% Other - I'll share below
HAPPY MOTHERS DAY
Here's wishing the YOUNGEST MOTHER to the OLDEST GRANDMOTHER,,,,...always remember.... YOU are valued, treasured and are a VERY SPECIAL lady to every man on this planet. I really hope and pray YOU are pampered with love, affection and basically spoiled rotten with fresh flowers, chocolates, … View moreHere's wishing the YOUNGEST MOTHER to the OLDEST GRANDMOTHER,,,,...always remember.... YOU are valued, treasured and are a VERY SPECIAL lady to every man on this planet. I really hope and pray YOU are pampered with love, affection and basically spoiled rotten with fresh flowers, chocolates, amazing gifts and yummy food today by close family and friends.
HAPPY MOTHERS DAY AGAIN.
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GARAGE SALE
Waikowhai Scouts are having another great Garage Sale
17 May 8am 1325 Dominion Rd Mt Roskill
Clothing, toys, books, household goods, furniture, exercycle, sausage sizzle
Cash and Bank transfer please
Students in revolt at Epsom Girls Grammar School, principal caught on secret recording after privacy breach
Epsom Girls Grammar principal Brenda McNaughton shared a former student’s private information, causing a privacy breach.
Some students claim the school feels like a “prison” and protest changes including increased periods and shorter lunch breaks.
The school is reviewing policies with the … View moreEpsom Girls Grammar principal Brenda McNaughton shared a former student’s private information, causing a privacy breach.
Some students claim the school feels like a “prison” and protest changes including increased periods and shorter lunch breaks.
The school is reviewing policies with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner following the breach.
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A top Auckland school principal has been caught on a secret recording telling staff “when others go low, we choose to go high” after a serious privacy breach involving a former student.
It comes amid a student revolt at Epsom Girls Grammar School (EGGS), with claims the college feels more like a “prison” than a place of learning.
Last Saturday, the Herald revealed principal Brenda McNaughton shared the name and confidential details of a former student who complained about disgraced music teacher Peter Thomas with another student’s father.
Following this reporting, an audio file appearing to be of McNaughton speaking to staff on Monday was provided to the Herald.
In the recording, she allegedly said: “As soon as we were aware of [the breach], we’ve been working with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner and following their advice right throughout.”
The school was reviewing policies and procedures, “certainly not starting from a position of deficit, but continually improving that space”.
She also acknowledged the “good work” she said the school had done regarding privacy.
“We are a large and very diverse community, and, in any large community, there are a small number who do get disgruntled, from time to time.”
The Herald, she told staff, did get one thing right - the description of EGGS as a “top school” in the headline.
“Our job, and what we do here at Epsom Girls Grammar School, is when others go low, we choose to go high.”
Speaking to the Herald on the condition of anonymity, an EGGS staffer said they believed McNaughton hadn’t acknowledged the mistake or taken responsibility.
They also said there had been no apology about the breach to staff.
Following Monday’s staff meeting about the privacy breach, the staffer was in “disbelief”.
“I was just so shocked, I couldn’t believe it.
“I don’t know who she was getting at with that ‘disgruntled’ comment, and, ‘When they go low we go high’. Who has gone low here? You have just been shown not to have been looking after the [privacy breach] victim. No one has gone low, it’s just the truth.”
The worker felt McNaughton cared more about protecting her own privacy than that of the former student.
‘Like a prison’
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On Tuesday, the Herald was sent an email signed by “24 anonymous” EGGS students.
In the correspondence, the students raise a list of grievances, including the increase next year from five daily periods to six, 30-minute lunch breaks and allegedly banning students from wearing thermals under their uniforms.
The email claims the school is trying to work students in to the ground.
The email also raised concerns about the privacy breach and the way confidential information was handled by the school.
The Herald was also sent an image of a poster displayed at the school featuring an image of a smiling man in handcuffs and a headline stating: “When your mum picks you up from school early”.
The poster included an image of McNaughton under the words “prime suspect”.
Underneath was a list taking aim at similar issues to those canvassed in the email.
“We, the students of Epsom Girls Grammar School, are protesting the potential changes in the process being made by principal McNaughton, which have made our school feel more like a prison than a place of learning.”
The document said changes to the timetable would cause confusion, and stricter rules made it harder to enjoy school.
“We believe school should be a place that helps us grow, not one that feels controlling and stressful. We deserve an environment where we can learn and express ourselves freely, without feeling restricted by unnecessary rules.
“We are asking for the school to rethink these changes and create a system that respects students’ needs and well-being. We want to feel safe, heard and supported, so we can thrive both academically and personally.”
The Herald repeatedly sought comment from the school this week but is yet to receive a response.
Recent school controversy
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Last year former EGGS teacher Peter Thomas lost his fight to keep details about his misconduct with a student secret and a Teachers’ Disciplinary Tribunal ruling against him was made public.
The tribunal evidence found Thomas “prevailed on [another student] to have sex with him, which ... was painful but to which she felt she could not say no”.
While the allegations of the sexual relationship between the former EGGS head of music and the girl had been publicised in 2021, it was only last year that the ruling could be shared.
After the ruling was shared a second former student came forward to the Herald alleging she too had complained about Thomas’ conduct.
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