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There’s growing debate about whether New Zealand’s extended Christmas break (and the slowdown that comes with it) affects productivity.
Tracy Watkins has weighed in ... now it’s your turn. What’s your take? 🤔
Every single blood donation you give can save 3 lives. Blood is needed to help over 29,000 New Zealanders every year. Now there’s a new place you can go to donate blood and help people who need it. NZ Blood’s new donor centre at 65 Constellation Drive on Auckland’s North Shore is now open.
… View moreEvery single blood donation you give can save 3 lives. Blood is needed to help over 29,000 New Zealanders every year. Now there’s a new place you can go to donate blood and help people who need it. NZ Blood’s new donor centre at 65 Constellation Drive on Auckland’s North Shore is now open.
Book now to donate at nzblood.co.nz, download the NZ Blood App or call 0800 448 325.
Hi neighbours!
At Graham’s Painters we bring 40+ years of experience, a friendly team of over 20+ full-time professionals, and a “get-it-done” attitude to every job big or small.
We specialise in interior/exterior painting, roof painting, house washing, decking, fencing, wallpapering, … View moreHi neighbours!
At Graham’s Painters we bring 40+ years of experience, a friendly team of over 20+ full-time professionals, and a “get-it-done” attitude to every job big or small.
We specialise in interior/exterior painting, roof painting, house washing, decking, fencing, wallpapering, and cedar weatherboards. We’re tidy, punctual, and perfect for busy families, non-DIYers, and retirees.
Discounts available for SuperGold Card holders
Serving all of Wellington, Hutt Valley & up to Plimmerton.
Message us today for a free quote, we’d love to help bring your home to life!
Dead or alive we pay cash for any unwanted cars, Vans, Trucks, 4x4, and Ute's.
Call our free phone 0800 333 314 now for a free appraisal or text to 021 303 903
Locally owned and Operated
I'm a fruit. If you take away my first letter, I'm a crime. If you take away my first two letters, I'm an animal. If you take away my first and last letter, I'm a form of music. What am I?
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the … View moreI'm a fruit. If you take away my first letter, I'm a crime. If you take away my first two letters, I'm an animal. If you take away my first and last letter, I'm a form of music. What am I?
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
Want to stop seeing these in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to … View moreThe Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
Thousands of formal warnings issued by police could be wiped from official records and compulsory training for all staff has been introduced because police haven't followed proper protocol for years, the Herald can reveal. Relying on formal warnings during police vetting has also been stopped … View moreThousands of formal warnings issued by police could be wiped from official records and compulsory training for all staff has been introduced because police haven't followed proper protocol for years, the Herald can reveal. Relying on formal warnings during police vetting has also been stopped nationwide because of the botch-up, and police are now inviting anyone who has concerns about a formal warning they've received to contact police and request a review of their records.
The background: Deficiencies in the formal warning system were first identified in 2021, after a High Court judge found the way warnings were issued breached the law. Central to the court’s ruling was that police didn’t understand that for a formal warning to be issued, a suspect must accept responsibility for their offending, and there must be sufficient evidence to prove the offence. After that ruling, police said they’d review their policies. However, the Herald has learned that four years since flaws were first identified, significant issues remain. A review conducted last year found that of a sample of 467 warnings issued between 2019 and 2024, only 171 were compliant. Police said those found to have breached policy were then wiped from official records.
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I think we’ve all seen the traffic notices and headlines about the new IKEA by now!
So here’s the question: why do we get so excited when a new store opens? Convenience? Curiosity? A reason for a weekend outing? We’d love to hear your thoughts!
Keen for an update? The Post has you … View moreI think we’ve all seen the traffic notices and headlines about the new IKEA by now!
So here’s the question: why do we get so excited when a new store opens? Convenience? Curiosity? A reason for a weekend outing? We’d love to hear your thoughts!
Keen for an update? The Post has you covered
New Zealand homeowners are now more likely to sell at a loss than at any time since 2013, and if you’re in Auckland or Wellington, the odds are even higher.
But there is a silver lining: buyers are still in a strong position when it comes to negotiating prices.
So we’re curious…
How … View moreNew Zealand homeowners are now more likely to sell at a loss than at any time since 2013, and if you’re in Auckland or Wellington, the odds are even higher.
But there is a silver lining: buyers are still in a strong position when it comes to negotiating prices.
So we’re curious…
How are you feeling about the current property market?
If you’re keen to dive into the details, Deborah Morris breaks down all the latest insights.
Wednesday 10 December, 10am - 3pm
Join us this Wednesday and explore our lifestyle, show homes and amenities.
More than just a place to live, Ryman villages are places where friendships grow, hobbies flourish and a genuine sense of community thrives.
The best way is to experience it for … View moreWednesday 10 December, 10am - 3pm
Join us this Wednesday and explore our lifestyle, show homes and amenities.
More than just a place to live, Ryman villages are places where friendships grow, hobbies flourish and a genuine sense of community thrives.
The best way is to experience it for yourself. No appointment necessary!
My Toyota Corolla was stolen from George st, Mt Eden on Saturday night. A rather undistinguished silver grey station wagon 2007 with a slightly dented right front mudguard and an aluminium checkerplate left rear quarterlight. Any information leading to its recovery appreciated and rewarded. DTC780.
From 7 to 18 December, there will be night-time closures on SH1 between Hampton Downs and Rangiriri (Sundays to Thursdays, 9pm to 5am) to carry out wire rope barrier maintenance. Please expect delays when travelling through this area.
By the end of 2025, mobile providers across Aotearoa will be switching off their 3G networks to make way for faster, more reliable 4G and 5G services. While this change will bring better coverage and performance in the long run, we know it might mean an unexpected upgrade for some customers—and … View moreBy the end of 2025, mobile providers across Aotearoa will be switching off their 3G networks to make way for faster, more reliable 4G and 5G services. While this change will bring better coverage and performance in the long run, we know it might mean an unexpected upgrade for some customers—and that can feel like a big step.
If your current mobile phone or device relies on 3G, you will no longer be able to connect to a New Zealand 3G network once the 3G network is switched off. That’s why now is a good time to check if you’re 4G or 5G ready.
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From 23 November to 17 December, stop/go traffic management will be in several locations on SH16 between Mabbett Lane and Restall Road (Sundays to Thursdays, 9pm to 5am).
Works will include chipsealing and stormwater improvements. There may be delays to your journey when travelling through the … View moreFrom 23 November to 17 December, stop/go traffic management will be in several locations on SH16 between Mabbett Lane and Restall Road (Sundays to Thursdays, 9pm to 5am).
Works will include chipsealing and stormwater improvements. There may be delays to your journey when travelling through the area. Click to find out more.
Solid, metal wire drawers
White
X4 pull out drawers
3 of the drawers have a height of 16 cm
Top drawer has a height of 7cm
Total height - 75 cm… View moreSolid, metal wire drawers
White
X4 pull out drawers
3 of the drawers have a height of 16 cm
Top drawer has a height of 7cm
Total height - 75 cm
Width - 49 cm
Depth - 49 cm
Collection is from Herd Rd, Hillsborough
The New Zealand College of Chinese Medicine (NZCCM) offers industry-focused Massage and English programmes that prepare students for professional practice.
Students gain strong Anatomy and Physiology knowledge, hands-on experience in the student clinic, and pathways into health and wellbeing … View moreThe New Zealand College of Chinese Medicine (NZCCM) offers industry-focused Massage and English programmes that prepare students for professional practice.
Students gain strong Anatomy and Physiology knowledge, hands-on experience in the student clinic, and pathways into health and wellbeing careers. NZCCM actively incorporates tikanga Māori and Te Ao Māori, partnering with local marae for cultural learning and community treatments.
As Auckland’s only provider of Massage diplomas, NZCCM is enrolling now for February 2026 Programmes include the Level 5 Wellness and Relaxation Massage Diploma and the Level 6 Remedial Massage Diploma, both NZQA-approved with intensive block courses. NZCCM also offers NZCEL Level 4 for academic English preparation.
Open Days will be held on 12 December and 23 January.
Contact: 09 580 2376 or auck@chinesemedicine.ac.nz
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I am keen to sell single solid wood bed frame (150$) and mattress(50$). It's from pet free and smoke free zone. Please dm me if interested. Pick up Mount Roskill.Selling as of moving. Have two sets with one side table. Price is for each bed but if buying all three items can can negotiate.
From late November 2025 to February 2026 there will be roadworks on Great South Road near SH1 Bombay interchange.
Works will include weigh plate and electronic sign installation at separate locations as part of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Programme.
Find out how it will affect your … View moreFrom late November 2025 to February 2026 there will be roadworks on Great South Road near SH1 Bombay interchange.
Works will include weigh plate and electronic sign installation at separate locations as part of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Programme.
Find out how it will affect your journey through the area.
At Waterford, life feels wonderfully effortless. Enjoy modern apartment living, peaceful harbour views and a warm, welcoming community. With cafés, boardwalks and the ferry close by, everything you love is within easy reach. Discover a lifestyle that brings calm, connection and a real sense of … View moreAt Waterford, life feels wonderfully effortless. Enjoy modern apartment living, peaceful harbour views and a warm, welcoming community. With cafés, boardwalks and the ferry close by, everything you love is within easy reach. Discover a lifestyle that brings calm, connection and a real sense of home.
As Christmas gift shopping moves increasingly online, scammers are ramping up their activity across the country.
Dunedin’s Investigation Support Unit is seeing more and more people fall victim to scams and other fraudulent activity, particularly on Facebook Marketplace.
There are a few ways… View moreAs Christmas gift shopping moves increasingly online, scammers are ramping up their activity across the country.
Dunedin’s Investigation Support Unit is seeing more and more people fall victim to scams and other fraudulent activity, particularly on Facebook Marketplace.
There are a few ways to avoid the scams and keep yourself safe doing online trades this holiday season, says Southern District Service Delivery Manager Senior Sergeant Dalton.
🔒 “A good first step when looking to purchase something on Marketplace is to check when the seller’s Facebook profile was created. If it’s very recent, there is a higher risk that they have just created this account for a one-off fake item.”
🔒 Another important step is to make sure the seller’s profile name and bank account name match up. “We’re seeing a lot of scammers claiming their bank account name is different because it belongs to their partner or family member - that’s a huge red flag."
🔒 “When you’re selling, never trust a screenshot anyone sends you showing that payment has been made. Check your own bank account to make sure a payment has gone through."
🔒 “Quite frankly, it’s best for all parties to agree to pay, or be paid, for items in cash and in-person. Ideally in a public place with CCTV coverage."
🔒 "If you’re buying a car, check Carjam.co.nz to see if it’s stolen or if there’s money owed on it.”
A reminder: Suspicious activity can be reported on 105
At Triton Hearing Kapiti, you’ll find us on Amohia Street in a spacious, welcoming clinic with easy flat-access parking. Our friendly team supports the Kapiti community, providing expert care in a relaxed, lounge-style environment.
From routine hearing checks to advanced solutions, we ensure … View moreAt Triton Hearing Kapiti, you’ll find us on Amohia Street in a spacious, welcoming clinic with easy flat-access parking. Our friendly team supports the Kapiti community, providing expert care in a relaxed, lounge-style environment.
From routine hearing checks to advanced solutions, we ensure every visit is simple and personalised. We love seeing clients reconnect with the sounds and moments they’ve been missing, whether it’s a loved one’s voice, music, or everyday life. Family-friendly and community focused, our Kapiti clinic makes hearing easy and enjoyable for everyone.
A local landlord in Riccarton https ://www.enviroflo.co.nz/ |booked what was meant to be a simple, routine CCTV drain check, | just a bit of peace of mind for a tidy, well-kept rental. But under that neat garden and solid paths, our camera told a different story…
We found several cracks and … View moreA local landlord in Riccarton https ://www.enviroflo.co.nz/ |booked what was meant to be a simple, routine CCTV drain check, | just a bit of peace of mind for a tidy, well-kept rental. But under that neat garden and solid paths, our camera told a different story…
We found several cracks and offsets in the old ceramic drain lines, likely hidden damage from the 2010–2011 quakes. Nothing too dramatic yet, but it was only a matter of time before things got messy.
Luckily, the property still had an EQC (now Natural Hazards Commission) claim on record. Our team stepped in to help the owner with the process, and before long, the repairs were fully approved and sorted at no extra cost to them.
We replaced the damaged sections, tidied everything up, and left both the tenant and landlord relieved they’d caught the problem early.
Moral of the story: sometimes a “routine check” can save you a lot of stress (and cash) down the line!
Have you claimed your free drain check with Enviroflo yet?
More than 4000 people have been affected by an Inland Revenue error that could have meant they paid the wrong amount of tax.
RNZ was contacted by a reader who said he had noticed the error when he went to finalise his tax return.
Inland Revenue now issues income tax assessments each year for most… View moreMore than 4000 people have been affected by an Inland Revenue error that could have meant they paid the wrong amount of tax.
RNZ was contacted by a reader who said he had noticed the error when he went to finalise his tax return.
Inland Revenue now issues income tax assessments each year for most New Zealanders, which tells them whether they have paid the right amount of tax.
The man said he and his wife would fill out an IR3 every year. “Nowadays the income, tax and imputation credits are automatically filled in, whether that be from investments in bonds, equities or bank accounts.
“Having always done this myself longhand, I still do this and thank goodness I did.”
He said, between them, they would have lost about $20,000 in credits if he had not noticed the problem.
“I found that my summary of income was correct; income, RWT, imputation credits. But when this was automatically input into the IR3 form, the imputation credits were only 50% of what they should have been.”
Inland Revenue said it had looked into the issue and identified a problem with how returns in the myIR system were pre-populating imputation tax credits for people who received dividends with imputation credits from jointly owned shareholdings.
“We have fixed this so any returns started in myIR from November 26 will not have this issue.
“Customers were able to amend the figure before filing the return; however, we have identified that approximately 4500 customers appear to have filed the return without changing the figure – so with the incorrect pre-populated imputation credits.
“We are currently working through the best way to amend these returns for the affected customers. Once we identify the easiest way to correct this error, [we] will be contacting those affected customers.”
Inland Revenue said it believed the amount involved was an average of about $300 per person, “all in the taxpayer’s favour. Late next week we should have a clearer picture of the exact number of customers and tax involved as we implement a fix.”
Deloitte tax partner Robyn Walker said anyone who had not noticed the problem could have paid more tax than they needed to, or received a larger refund than they should have.
“It’s interesting that the income and tax credits aren’t kept together when the amounts are halved for spouses – I would have expected that the income and credits would have both been wrong.”
She said it was a problem that a system that was meant to be able to be relied upon by taxpayers was not working correctly.
“In the scheme of the total number of people who might invest in shares receiving dividends, it’s possibly not a big error population; however, the existence of any error in pre-population is concerning. One of the risks associated with income and tax credit amounts being pre-populated is that there is a natural tendency to just accept what is there if it seems ‘about right’ rather than taking the next step of validating that the information is actually correct against source documents. It would seem that this is what those 4500 individuals have done.”
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At The Helier, retirement feels like a fresh beginning. Light-filled modern apartments, thoughtfully designed spaces and a warm, welcoming community create a place where you can live well and stay connected. Enjoy a lifestyle that feels easy, uplifting and entirely your own, right in the heart of … View moreAt The Helier, retirement feels like a fresh beginning. Light-filled modern apartments, thoughtfully designed spaces and a warm, welcoming community create a place where you can live well and stay connected. Enjoy a lifestyle that feels easy, uplifting and entirely your own, right in the heart of the Bays.
These blossoms made from Resene wallpaper left over after decorating will mean your décor will be blooming gorgeous, no matter the season. Find out how to create your own wallpaper flowers with these easy step by step instructions.
Awatere is a vibrant, modern village where friendships are easy and everyday living feels inspired. Enjoy beautifully designed apartments, spaces to gather, and a community that supports doing more of what you love. From social clubs to quiet moments, it’s all here when you want it.
1. Buy food that is safe
Check the ‘use by’ date to make sure food is fresh when you buy it. Avoid food with damaged packaging and buy fruit and vegetables that are slightly unripe or only just ripe – especially if you don't plan to eat them straight away.
2. Gathered food
Always wash… View more1. Buy food that is safe
Check the ‘use by’ date to make sure food is fresh when you buy it. Avoid food with damaged packaging and buy fruit and vegetables that are slightly unripe or only just ripe – especially if you don't plan to eat them straight away.
2. Gathered food
Always wash food that you or others have gathered, such as pūha or watercress. If you gather kai moana or seafood, check that the place you are collecting from is clean and free of pollution.
3. Keep hands and surfaces clean
Wash your hands before and after you handle raw foods. Make sure benchtops, cooking tools and barbecues are clean before you use them. When you prepare the meal, use separate utensils, plates and other tools to handle raw and cooked foods. After the meal, clean your benchtops and cooking tools well.
4. Rinse all fruits and veg
Rinse all of your fruit and vegetables under cold running water and then dry them with a clean cloth to help remove dirt and bacteria.
5. Preparing chicken
Chicken is the main offender for spreading serious tummy bugs. It needs careful handling when it's raw. You might be great at remembering to wash your hands before and after touching raw chicken, but do you get carried away and wash the chicken before you prepare it? This common practice is a big no-no. Washing chicken in your kitchen sink can lead to contamination of your work surfaces, cloths and cooking utensils. Keep a special chopping board for preparing chicken and don't use that board for chopping up fruit and vegetables. Don't use the same knife to cut up chicken and other foods until it's been well washed.
6. Keep cold foods cold
Set your fridge temperature between 2°C and 4°C. Most harmful bacteria cannot grow at low temperatures.
Keep cold dishes like salads and puddings in the fridge until you’re ready to eat them. Store raw meats and seafood in the fridge until right before you cook them. Cover them and place them on the fridge’s bottom shelf so their juices can’t drip onto other food. Keep meat products away from ready-to-eat food such as fruit and vegetables. Other meat and seafood (kai moana) are sources of bacterial contamination, not just chicken.
If you’re eating outdoors, use an icepack or chilly bin to keep food cold.
7. Fully cook meats and seafood
Cook chicken, mince and sausages right through, and cook pork and poultry until the juices run clear. Use a meat thermometer to check that your meat has been cooked to a safe temperature – at least 75°C in the thickest part of the meat.
You can take a vacuum-packed cooked ham straight from the fridge to the table. But if you like to glaze your ham and serve it hot, cook it at 160°C for 20 minutes per kilogram. You want the inside to reach at least 60°C – use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
Eating cold ham of any kind when you are pregnant can come with the risk of a serious infection called listeria, which is harmful to the baby. Instead, cook or reheat ham until it’s piping hot (over 70°C) and eat it straight away. Learn more about how to eat safely when you're pregnant(external link).
8. Cover all dishes
Cover any dishes that are sitting out on the benchtop or table to protect your food from flies, ants and other bugs. Don’t leave them out of the fridge for more than 2 hours. Or store them in the fridge while your guests enjoy their first serving, then bring them back out when it’s time for the next course. If you think that food has been left out of the fridge for 4 or more hours, it is better to throw it out than risk getting sick. If in doubt, don't eat it!
9. Store leftovers carefully
Refrigerate or freeze leftover food within 2 hours after it was cooked, sealed in a clean, airtight container. You can keep a cooked cured ham in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Cover it with a clean damp tea towel and change the towel every day.
Reheat leftovers until they are steaming hot (over 75°C), stirring well so they heat all the way through.
10. Food safety in pregnancy
When you're pregnant (hapū) you have lower immunity which puts you at greater risk of food-related illnesses such as listeriosis and toxoplasmosis. These can be dangerous for you and your child. To be safe:
wash and dry your hands carefully before handling food
clean, cook and chill foods
store leftover food in the fridge and don't eat them after 2 days
avoid high-risk foods(external link).
11. Most importantly
If you've been unwell or have any symptoms of sickness, leave the food preparation and serving to others. Don't risk passing on your germs to your whānau.
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With Christmas fast approaching and trees beginning to twinkle in homes across New Zealand, we’re on the hunt for NZ’s Most Loved Christmas Tree!
Whether it’s bursting with colour, elegantly minimal, or filled with sentimental touches from years past, we want to see how Kiwis are spreading… View moreWith Christmas fast approaching and trees beginning to twinkle in homes across New Zealand, we’re on the hunt for NZ’s Most Loved Christmas Tree!
Whether it’s bursting with colour, elegantly minimal, or filled with sentimental touches from years past, we want to see how Kiwis are spreading Christmas magic this season.
And now for the showstopper... 🌟
One tree will rise above them all, capturing the most public votes and the title of NZ’s Most Loved Christmas Tree 2025, along with the iPhone 17 Pro in Cosmic Orange, this year’s ultimate Christmas prize. 🎁🎄
To spread the cheer even further, four lucky trees will be chosen as Santa’s Lucky Trees, each receiving a $200 Space General Gift Voucher, the perfect way to add extra sparkle this season. 🎅🎁
Need a tree first? Explore our beautiful range here and start your Christmas magic!
📅 Public voting opens: 10 November 2025
⏳ Entries close: 17 December 2025
🎄 Winners unwrapped before Christmas — so strike a pose and share your festive masterpiece!
The plasma in your blood can help treat over 50 different illnesses including cancer, kidney disease and severe burns, and make up to 11 lifesaving products. But demand is outpacing the supply. Luckily there’s a new place to donate plasma. NZ Blood’s new donor centre at 65 Constellation Drive … View moreThe plasma in your blood can help treat over 50 different illnesses including cancer, kidney disease and severe burns, and make up to 11 lifesaving products. But demand is outpacing the supply. Luckily there’s a new place to donate plasma. NZ Blood’s new donor centre at 65 Constellation Drive on Auckland’s North Shore is now open.
Book now to donate at nzblood.co.nz/plasma, download the NZ Blood App or call 0800 448 325
At The Bayview, stunning views and relaxed, resort-style living set the tone for every day. Light-filled apartments, friendly neighbours and quality amenities create a lifestyle that feels uplifting and beautifully easy. Make the most of Tauranga’s sunshine in a place designed for comfort and … View moreAt The Bayview, stunning views and relaxed, resort-style living set the tone for every day. Light-filled apartments, friendly neighbours and quality amenities create a lifestyle that feels uplifting and beautifully easy. Make the most of Tauranga’s sunshine in a place designed for comfort and connection.
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