Retirement village residents grow veggies for City Mission
Residents at a central Auckland retirement village are growing vegetables and donating them to the Auckland City Mission.
Selwyn Heights Village gardener Pat Tunstall is encouraging residents to take part to help connect people isolated in the Covid-19 lockdown.
National Gardening Week’s “grow to give” competition officially begins on Labour Weekend and competitors will photograph their failures and successes.
“We’ve got people growing their extra row in the garden, balcony pots and troughs. As long as there’s a bit of dirt, there’s a potential crop of veggies,” Tunstall said.
“Already voices can be heard on balconies starting the journey of caring for their seeds in the most suitable pot or trough sought from those recycled in our nursery. It’s got people sharing a common goal, communicating and having a laugh.”
The competition ends in February and surplus fresh vegetables will be given to the City Mission.
Participants will grow an extra row of vegetables and donate the yields to a local food distribution organisation.
Register online at the link below between October 1 and 25 to receive a free pack of veggie seeds.
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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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.