Royal Oak, Auckland

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21 days ago

BLACK FRIDAY SALE

Lee from Onehunga Traders Limited

**⚡🏃⚡🏃⚡HUGE CLEARANCE DEAL ON NOW - MASSIVE DISCOUNT ON LEATHER SOFAS - AT COST, CORNER SUITES PLUS MUCH MUCH MORE🔥⚡🏃🔥⚡🏃🔥⚡
PLUS WE HAVE TWO CONTAINERS OF CLEARANCE STOCK ARRIVING FROM IMPORTERS - 50% OFF RETAIL PRICES🥳👍🥳👍🥳👍🥳👍🥳
33 NELSON … View more
**⚡🏃⚡🏃⚡HUGE CLEARANCE DEAL ON NOW - MASSIVE DISCOUNT ON LEATHER SOFAS - AT COST, CORNER SUITES PLUS MUCH MUCH MORE🔥⚡🏃🔥⚡🏃🔥⚡
PLUS WE HAVE TWO CONTAINERS OF CLEARANCE STOCK ARRIVING FROM IMPORTERS - 50% OFF RETAIL PRICES🥳👍🥳👍🥳👍🥳👍🥳
33 NELSON ST PUKEKOHE, 211 GREAT SOUTH RD TAKANINI, AND BED SHOP 33 EDINBURGH ST PUKEKOHE**

21 days ago

The Story of Hine and Tāne Mahuta - Day 12

Kiran Reddy from Mount Eden

Long ago, Hine-te-Aroha, a daughter of the great chief Tāwhaki, was known for her beauty and devotion to the atua (gods). She was deeply connected to Tāne Mahuta, the atua of the forest and creator of humankind. In a past life, Hine had pledged herself to Tāne Mahuta, dedicating her aroha (love)… View moreLong ago, Hine-te-Aroha, a daughter of the great chief Tāwhaki, was known for her beauty and devotion to the atua (gods). She was deeply connected to Tāne Mahuta, the atua of the forest and creator of humankind. In a past life, Hine had pledged herself to Tāne Mahuta, dedicating her aroha (love) and wairua (spirit) to him.

However, her father Tāwhaki disapproved of Tāne Mahuta. He saw Tāne as a humble being who spent his days nurturing the ngahere (forest) and the creatures of the world, living a simple life far from the wealth and prestige of a chief. Tāwhaki wanted his daughter to marry a great warrior or chief, someone who could uphold their mana (status). When Tāwhaki held a grand celebration to find a suitable match for Hine, Tāne Mahuta, knowing his humble lifestyle would draw scorn, chose not to attend.

Despite Tāne’s warning, Hine attended the celebration out of loyalty to her father. During the festivities, Tāwhaki openly ridiculed Tāne Mahuta, speaking of his simple ways and lack of riches. Hine, unable to bear the insults to her beloved, declared her undying love for Tāne and consigned herself to the ceremonial fire, joining the wairua realm.

Tāne Mahuta, upon learning of this, was overwhelmed with aroha and grief. He sent his mighty winds, led by Tāwhirimātea, to dismantle Tāwhaki’s gathering and humble the chief for his arrogance. Yet, Tāne’s love for Hine remained steadfast, and he vowed to bring her back. Hine was reborn as Hine-te-Waiora, the daughter of the sacred mountain ranges.

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The Test of Devotion

As she grew, Hine-te-Waiora remembered her bond with Tāne Mahuta and began her karakia (prayers) to him. She vowed to marry only Tāne, despite her father showing her many wealthy and powerful suitors. Her devotion turned into months of rigorous karakia and fasting atop a sacred maunga (mountain).

The ngahere (forest) around her became peaceful, the winds softened, and even the fiercest creatures of the wild grew tame in her presence. Seasons came and went, but her focus never wavered.

Meanwhile, Tāne Mahuta, still grieving his past loss, had vowed never to take another partner. However, the atua noticed the chaos spreading in the human world as malevolent forces thrived unchecked. It was prophesied that only a child born of Tāne Mahuta and Hine-te-Waiora could restore balance.

To test her aroha and devotion, Tāne disguised himself as an old koroua (elder) and visited her. Pretending to doubt Tāne’s worth, he mocked him, saying, “Why would you dedicate yourself to a humble atua who lives among trees and birds? You could marry a great chief who could provide wealth and status.”

Hine-te-Waiora, though respectful, became enraged. “You may be an elder, but your words dishonor the one I love. Tāne Mahuta is the kaitiaki (guardian) of all life, and his mana is unmatched. I will hear no more of your insults!”

At that moment, the koroua revealed himself as Tāne Mahuta. “You have proven your unwavering aroha and devotion,” he said with pride. He took her as his bride, and together they returned to the sacred ngahere to restore harmony to the world.

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Moral of the Story

This story teaches us that aroha (love) and pono (devotion) have the power to overcome all obstacles. When guided by sincerity and deep faith, even the greatest challenges can be transformed. Like Hine-te-Waiora, we are reminded to remain steadfast in our values and trust in the wairua to guide us. True love is not swayed by wealth or appearances but rooted in deep connection and understanding. Through aroha and devotion, balance and harmony can be restored to ourselves and the world around us.

21 days ago

Message from PM Luxon

Brian from Mount Roskill

Yesterday marks one year since the National-led Government took office and immediately got to work on reducing the cost of living, restoring law and order and delivering better health and education.

The achievements we’ve made in just one year are thanks to the resilience and determination of… View more
Yesterday marks one year since the National-led Government took office and immediately got to work on reducing the cost of living, restoring law and order and delivering better health and education.

The achievements we’ve made in just one year are thanks to the resilience and determination of everyday New Zealanders.

There’s a lot more work to do, and I know many Kiwis are still doing it tough. But we have made real progress to ensure that Kiwis keep more of their hard-earned money, feel safer in their communities, can access life-changing medicines and treatments, grow their businesses, can benefit from critical infrastructure, and to help our kids achieve at school. Here are just some of the highlights from our first year in Government:

• Inflation has dropped to 2.2%, bringing relief from mortgages

• 83% of New Zealanders have received tax relief, putting more money in their back pockets

• Wages are growing faster than inflation, putting more money into Kiwis’ budgets

• 40,000 families have received FamilyBoost childcare payments to help reduce their childcare costs

• Delivered a 30% increase in Police foot patrols and a 60% decrease in ram raids

• Invested $604m in Pharmac to deliver up to 26 new cancer treatments

• Slashed the regulations holding back farmers

• Progressed the Fast Track Approvals regime to get stuff built, fast

• Led eight trade missions, delivered three trade agreements and resolved 16 barriers to trade because more Kiwi products on shelves overseas means higher incomes

• Cracked down on gangs and banned gang patches in public

• Progressed our plan for tougher sentences for serious criminals

• Banned cell phones in classrooms

• Required an hour of reading, writing and maths a day for our students

• Put in place structured literacy and maths from Term 1 next year so kids can grow the skills they need to succeed

• Invested $16.7b into health and set ambitious targets for shorter waits in the emergency department and for surgery.

My Government was elected on a promise to improve the lives of New Zealanders in the areas that matter most to them. We’re making good progress and I’m committed to keeping our promise with bold action that delivers positive results for all New Zealanders.

Thank you,

Christopher
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22 days ago

Win this brand new home!

Heart Foundation Lottery

Experience the perfect blend of country charm and city convenience in Clarks Beach, Auckland!

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This home offers three bedrooms, spacious kitchen and living areas, and a double garage.
View more
Experience the perfect blend of country charm and city convenience in Clarks Beach, Auckland!

For just $15 a ticket, you could win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home, valued at over $1 million.

This home offers three bedrooms, spacious kitchen and living areas, and a double garage.

Whether you decide to make it your dream home, a holiday retreat, a rental property or simply sell it, it’s still a life-changing prize.

Don’t wait—get your tickets today at heartlottery.org.nz.
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22 days ago

Garage Sales - Mount Roskill on Saturday 30th November 2024

Andrew from Mount Eden

📅 Date: Saturday 30th November 2024
⏰ Time: 9:30 - 11:30
📍 Location: 42 Dornwell road, Mount Roskill, Auckland 1041

We’re embarking on an exciting new chapter as our family prepares to move to another country! To lighten our load and raise funds to support our children during this … View more
📅 Date: Saturday 30th November 2024
⏰ Time: 9:30 - 11:30
📍 Location: 42 Dornwell road, Mount Roskill, Auckland 1041

We’re embarking on an exciting new chapter as our family prepares to move to another country! To lighten our load and raise funds to support our children during this big transition, we’re hosting a garage sale full of treasures and great finds!

✨ What You’ll Find:
Furniture
Kitchenware
Electronics
Home Décor

Etc.

🎯 Why It Matters:
Every purchase helps us create a smoother start for our kids in their new home abroad. Your support means the world to us!
Come find a bargain, enjoy some neighborly chat, and be part of our journey!
For questions, feel free to reach out at O21 44O1O3.

Negotiable

22 days ago

Here comes the hot weather: Parts of New Zealand due to push past 30C this week

Brian from Mount Roskill

Kiwis are in for an early dose of scorching summer heat later this week - with temperatures pushing past 30C in parts of the country.
MetService is forecasting highs of 28C, 31C and 29C for Napier, Hastings and Gisborne respectively on Thursday.
“That’s well above average for this time of … View more
Kiwis are in for an early dose of scorching summer heat later this week - with temperatures pushing past 30C in parts of the country.
MetService is forecasting highs of 28C, 31C and 29C for Napier, Hastings and Gisborne respectively on Thursday.
“That’s well above average for this time of year – but we’re of course knocking on the door of summer,” MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane said.
That warmth will be felt in most regions: Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga and Whangārei are likely to experience highs in the early to mid-20s over the remainder of the week.
Further south tomorrow, the mercury is likely to rise as high as 27C in Christchurch – well past its November average of 19C – while Timaru is in for a toasty maximum of 26C.
“Those day-time temperatures are certainly on the warm side, but some of the overnight temperatures also don’t dip too low,” Makgabutlane said.
Aucklanders were in for balmy lows of 16C and 17C over the next few nights, with high humidity likely to hamper sleep across the city.
“But even parts of Southland have minimum temperatures in the mid-teens, which is fairly warm.”
Makgabutlane said the heat was coming with a ridge of high pressure meeting a northwesterly air flow – drawing warm, moist air over New Zealand.
On Thursday, a frontal system was also forecast to begin bringing rain and wind to the South Island, with the wettest weather expected in the west.
But little of that was likely to reach parched northeastern areas like Hawke’s Bay.
“If we’re lucky, there may be a little bit of rain from that, but there’s nothing substantial on the cards.”
The dry and hot conditions are already fuelling concern about fire danger in the region, months away from the peak of summer.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand Hawke’s Bay district manager Glen Varcoe confirmed fire-risk indices were late last week elevated to high across the Ahuriri and Heretaunga districts, including Napier and Hastings and coastal regions north to Wairoa.
Last Thursday, police said both fire safety officers and police had been investigating five bush and scrub fires in Northern Hawke’s Bay, in some cases suspected deliberately lit.
Niwa reports temperatures are likely to be warmer than average through to January, with frequent northwesterly winds leading to more days above 25C.
Also raising the odds for hot summer weather was the potential for marine heatwave conditions – already occurring in seas to the east of New Zealand – to expand and intensify.
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22 days ago

Breaking the Cycle of Taha Tinana (Physical Cravings) - Day 11

Kiran Reddy from Mount Eden

Breaking the Cycle of Taha Tinana (Physical Cravings)

In te ao Māori (the Māori worldview), humans are seen as beings of both taha tinana (the physical realm) and taha wairua (the spiritual realm). A balance between these aspects is essential for well-being. When we focus solely on satisfying … View more
Breaking the Cycle of Taha Tinana (Physical Cravings)

In te ao Māori (the Māori worldview), humans are seen as beings of both taha tinana (the physical realm) and taha wairua (the spiritual realm). A balance between these aspects is essential for well-being. When we focus solely on satisfying our physical cravings—kai (food), moe (rest), hiahia (desires), and mataku (fear)—we risk losing our connection to wairuatanga (spirituality) and mauri (life force).

The Story of Tūmaro and the Sacred Rākau (Tree)

Once, a man named Tūmaro roamed the vast ngahere (forest) in search of a better life. He was tired, hungry, and filled with uncertainty about his future. As the sun blazed above him, he cried out to the atua (gods), seeking their guidance.

Hearing his plea, Tāne Mahuta, the atua of the forests, sent him a gift: a rākau manaaki (sacred tree) with the power to grant wishes. Exhausted, Tūmaro lay beneath the tree, and his first wish was for moe (rest). The tree immediately granted his desire, providing a cool shade, soft moss, and a gentle breeze that lulled him into a deep sleep.

When he awoke, his puku (stomach) growled with hunger. Without thinking, he wished for kai, and the tree responded with an abundance of delicious hākari (feast). He devoured it greedily, thanking no one for the gift.

Feeling satisfied, his mind wandered to hiahia (desire). Tūmaro wished for a companion to bring him pleasure and ease his loneliness. The tree granted this wish too, and soon he became absorbed in his desires, forgetting his original prayer to the atua.

As the day turned to night, Tūmaro became aware of the darkening ngahere and the distant calls of kēhua (spirits). Fear crept into his mind, and he thought, “What if a wild beast comes to attack me?” As soon as the thought arose, the sacred tree granted it—a kurī ngaro (ferocious beast) appeared and devoured him.

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The Lesson of Tūmaro

The kaumātua (elders) who shared this story taught that Tūmaro’s downfall was not caused by the rākau manaaki but by his own lack of balance. By giving in entirely to taha tinana (physical cravings) without nurturing his taha wairua (spiritual self), he created a cycle that led to his destruction.
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Values Reflected in the Story

1. Whanaungatanga (Connection): Tūmaro failed to acknowledge the atua and his connection to the world around him. Gratitude and mindfulness strengthen our relationships with others and with te taiao (the environment).

2. Wairuatanga (Spirituality): The story reminds us that taha wairua must be nurtured alongside taha tinana. Practices such as karakia (prayers) and aroha ki te Atua (love for the gods) maintain spiritual balance.

3. Manaakitanga (Respect and Care): Instead of respecting the sacred gift of the tree, Tūmaro became consumed by his personal desires, neglecting the importance of moderation and care.

4. Kaitiakitanga (Guardianship): The sacred tree symbolises the resources of Papatūānuku (Earth Mother), which must be used responsibly, with gratitude and care.

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Moral of the Story

The story of Tūmaro teaches us that balance is the key to a fulfilling life. Pursuing the needs of taha tinana without acknowledging taha wairua leads to imbalance and harm. To thrive, we must practice gratitude, moderation, and mindfulness. As values remind us, nurturing our spiritual connection ensures harmony within ourselves, our whānau, and the wider world.

In Tūmaro’s story, the sacred rākau served not only as a gift but also as a reminder of the power of our intentions and the need to honor both physical and spiritual well-being.

23 days ago

Retire in comfort and security

Greenview Park Village

Premium care just meters away form our village. Join our caring community, where passion thrives. Trust Terrace Kennedy House for exceptional care and meaningful connections. Find out more

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23 days ago

🛠️ Need More Storage? Unlock Hidden Spaces! 🚪✨

Heike from David Wix Property Repairs & Maintenance

Check out this before-and-after transformation! David added a custom wall-access door, turning unused space into a hidden storage solution. Maximise every inch of your home with ease! 📦🔨

Your space deserves a handyman's touch.
🗓️ Book now for a free consultation: 02102242181.

D
23 days ago

Meditation Introductory

Durba from Mount Eden

A four-part progressive course introducing the essentials of meditation and a wide canvas of differing methods to get you underway. The accent is on guided practice, with several progressive meditations each evening.

Guest teacher Jogyata spent many years under the guidance of the late Indian … View more
A four-part progressive course introducing the essentials of meditation and a wide canvas of differing methods to get you underway. The accent is on guided practice, with several progressive meditations each evening.

Guest teacher Jogyata spent many years under the guidance of the late Indian spiritual master Sri Chinmoy, and brings a wealth of practical experience, personal stories and insights to share. His w/shops are known for their encouragement, inspiration and simplicity.


When: Consecutive Tues Nov 26; Dec 3, 10, 17;
7pm – 8:30pm
Where: 89 Dominion Rd, Mt Eden. Cnr of the Dominion Rd/Tawari Street.


Registration is encouraged to ensure seating space – simply text your name/contact details to Jogyata: 0221887432.

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23 days ago

RE: Hosting a FREE inspirational talk by Harita Davies

Durba from Mount Eden

Kia Ora
I would like to introduce you to Harita Davies, our national record holder in 3100-Mile race.

Harita is the only New Zealand woman to ever attempt and complete the world's longest certified running race, the 3100-Mile race (94km for 52 days and 28 pairs of running shoes!) The … View more
Kia Ora
I would like to introduce you to Harita Davies, our national record holder in 3100-Mile race.

Harita is the only New Zealand woman to ever attempt and complete the world's longest certified running race, the 3100-Mile race (94km for 52 days and 28 pairs of running shoes!) The Self-Transcendence 3,100-Mile Race, described as “The Mount Everest of Ultramarathons” by the New York Times, requires competitors to maintain an average of 60 miles a day, amounting to over two marathons every day for 52 days!

Each year, contestants are drawn to the 3100-mile ultra for often inner reasons. Testing their physical and mental limits, with a curiosity about human potential itself. The race promises personal growth and self-discovery. Participants come from around the world to shatter their perceived limitations and discover a deeper sense of self. Only six women have ever completed the 3100-mile distance since its inception in 1997.

Please listen to Harita's many interviews with RNZ - www.rnz.co.nz...
Watch a trailer about the award-winning documentary covering the 3100 Mile Race -
www.youtube.com...

Accompanying her will be Preetidutta Thorpe, ultra marathon runner and a former Olympic-level contender in sailing who has just completed the Everest Marathon last year.

For Harita, meditation is the ultimate game changer in her running. This holistic approach cultivates peak performance and nurtures a deeper sense of well-being, She believes that caring for our own sense of peace is one of the most powerful contributions we can make to creating a better and more peaceful world.

Kindly get in touch if you would like to have Harita talk to your school/class about her experience and share a few simple practical meditation techniques to cope with stress, improve focus and cultivate resilience. The duration and depth of the subject matter can be tailored to suit.

Harita, now living in the US, and will be back in Auckland on Wednesday 12 February.

I look forward to the opportunity to discuss any possibilities for inspiring your school community to take the first step.

Warmest regards,
Durba Lee Preetidutta Thorpe
Mobile: 0220 653 719 Mobile: 0220 814 727

Sri Chinmoy Centre

31 days ago

Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.

What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?

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When should the tree go up? 🎄
  • 4.6% Second half of November
    4.6% Complete
  • 43.5% 1st December
    43.5% Complete
  • 17.6% A week before Christmas
    17.6% Complete
  • 33% Whenever you wish
    33% Complete
  • 1.2% Other - I'll share below
    1.2% Complete
2976 votes
23 days ago

The Story of Tahu and the Sacred Visitor - Day 10

Kiran Reddy from Mount Eden

In a small kāinga (village) nestled by the ngahere (forest), lived an elderly woman named Tahu. She was a simple kuia (elder), devoted to the atua and known for her aroha (love and compassion). Though she lived humbly, Tahu’s heart was rich with kindness and her hands were always busy caring for… View moreIn a small kāinga (village) nestled by the ngahere (forest), lived an elderly woman named Tahu. She was a simple kuia (elder), devoted to the atua and known for her aroha (love and compassion). Though she lived humbly, Tahu’s heart was rich with kindness and her hands were always busy caring for others in her community.

One night, Tahu had a vision during her karakia (prayers). The atua spoke to her, saying that a great rangatira (chief) on a sacred journey would one day visit her home. This visitor would be a symbol of mana (prestige) and the spirit of aroha. Tahu woke with a sense of purpose and spent her days preparing for this rangatira’s arrival.

She tidied her whare (home) and tended to her māra (garden), ensuring everything was in perfect condition. Each day, she gathered the freshest kumara and sweetest berries from the ngahere, tasting them carefully to ensure they were fit for her guest. Although her people sometimes laughed at her efforts, saying, “Tahu, why prepare so much for someone who might never come?” she remained steadfast in her devotion.

One day, the great rangatira, Tāwhirimātea, arrived at her humble whare with his companion. Tahu’s heart swelled with joy as she welcomed them, offering water and the food she had so carefully prepared.

However, one of Tāwhirimātea’s companions noticed Tahu tasting the berries before offering them. He frowned and whispered, “It is disrespectful to offer food that has already been tasted.”

But Tāwhirimātea smiled and replied, “You judge her actions, but I understand her intentions. Tahu is not tasting out of disrespect—she is ensuring that only the sweetest and best berries are served. It is her aroha that makes this kai truly sacred.” He ate the berries with gratitude, blessing Tahu for her kindness.

The atua smiled upon Tahu, and the mana of her aroha inspired her whānau to live with the same compassion and care for others.

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Moral of the Story

This story teaches that acts of aroha (love and compassion), no matter how humble, hold the greatest mana. True kindness is not measured by wealth or grandeur but by the heart and intention behind our actions. Like Tahu, we are reminded to serve others with sincerity and respect, knowing that aroha strengthens the bonds of whānau and community.

24 days ago

The Year in Space 2024

Stardome Observatory & Planetarium from Stardome Observatory & Planetarium

2024 has been an epic year in space, with stranded astronauts, dazzling auroras, comets, meteor showers, and eclipses. 

The Year in Space is Stardome’s own fulldome showcase of the year’s highlights and includes stunning recent images and discoveries from the James … View more
2024 has been an epic year in space, with stranded astronauts, dazzling auroras, comets, meteor showers, and eclipses. 

The Year in Space is Stardome’s own fulldome showcase of the year’s highlights and includes stunning recent images and discoveries from the James Webb Space Telescope, exciting space events of the year, and breathtaking astrophotography from finalists of the NZ Astrophotography Competition.

Take a trip through space and witness the beauty of our universe as seen from Aotearoa New Zealand. Not to be missed!

www.stardome.org.nz...

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