Opening of high schools near central Auckland/western Auckland area
My daughter goes to Mt. Albert Grammar. I just received an email from Auckland Regional Public Health Servvice (ARPHS) saying a second student at MAGS has just been confirmed as having COVID-19 but was infectious more than two weeks ago. However, ARPHS "is asking all students and staff members (at MAGS) to get tested" to "help identify if there are any undiagnosed cases." Then later the letter states, "MAGS remains safe for all staff and students to return on Monday 31 August and lessons resume at 8.40 am."
The two statements seem like a serious contradiction. If the school is "safe", why have everyone associated with the school get tested? I believe high schools in this area of Auckland are not safe now, especially with a new Covid cluster discovered in Mt. Roskill. These high schools should stay physically closed for at least another one or two weeks (or at least stay closed to students 15 and older since these students can stay home on their own). Or at least MAGS (with a student enrollment of 3,000) should stay closed until every MAGS student is tested, since the ARPHS stated it wanted every student in MAGS tested.
I will write to the principal of MAGS, the Ministry of Health, and the political parties. If you are concerned about our community health, I hope you will also write.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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59% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26% No, individuals should take responsibility
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15% ... It is complicated
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
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!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
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