1816 days ago

"Rockstar" jazz musician nets national accolade

Caryn Wilkinson Reporter from Community News

Auckland teenager Toby Barrett is turning heads in the jazz world.

The Avondale College student has won the Outstanding Cambridge Learner Award this year.

He is among 85 students from 18 secondary schools around the country to earn the prestigious accolade.

The awards recognise the achievements of learners who took Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge International AS and A levels in November.

Barrett came top in the country in Cambridge International AS level music.

A saxophonist and band leader, he is an award winning performer.

Barrett has netted awards in jazz competitions around the country and won the improvisation award at Avondale College.

Peers and teachers describe him as a "rock star."

Barrett plans to study music and commerce at the University of Auckland.

Image
More messages from your neighbours
5 days ago

🧩😏 Riddle me this, Neighbours…

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

I am an odd number. Take away a letter and I become even. What number am I?

Do you think you know the answer?

Want to stop seeing these in your newsfeed? No worries! Simply head here and click once on the Following button.

Image
2 days ago

Scam Alert: Bank cold calls

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

ASB is warning customers about reports of cold calls from scammers claiming to be from ASB. These scammers are trying to obtain personal information, including usernames, dates of birth, and verification codes sent to your mobile phone.

🛡️ The "Caller Check" Test
If you get a call from someone claiming to be from ASB and you’re unsure, just ask them for a Caller Check. You will then be able to verify the call through the app.

Remember, banks will:​​
❌ Never ask for your banking passwords, PINs, or verification codes​​
❌ Never need to know your full credit card number – especially the CVC
❌ Never ask you to download software or remotely access your device​​
❌ Never ask you to purchase gift cards or transfer funds.

If you have received a phone call and think your account has been compromised, call ASB on 0800 ASB FRAUD (0800 272 372), or visit your local branch.

Image
4 days ago

Denim, but make it one-of-a-kind 💙

The Team from SPCA Auckland - Centres & Op Shops

Not every pair of jeans makes it to the rack... but that doesn’t mean their story ends there. Our talented volunteer Annie has been transforming damaged denim into handcrafted bags, hats and aprons in our Onehunga SPCA Op Shop ✂️🧵

This latest batch even features her own hand-sewn designs, and customers have been loving them, they sell almost as soon as they hit the shelf!

It’s creativity, sustainability and community all stitched together, helping animals in need 🐾

📍 217 Onehunga Mall, Onehunga
🕘 9am–5pm, 7 days