Unfunded cancer treatment needed 26-year-old's survival
Massey resident Tegan Hollier, 26, received a shock diagnosis of stage four bowel cancer, "teetering on curable", on January 15, despite having almost no symptoms. However, she has since been told her only chance at survival is Keytruda, an unfunded immunotherapy drug with a $112,000 price tag, due to also being diagnosed with Lynch Syndrome, which doesn't respond well to chemotherapy.
"I'm just really angry, because literally my life is in my own hands and now it depends if I can get enough money. It's pretty heartbreaking really," said Hollier, who returned to work less than a month after having major surgery.
The drug Hollier needs is only funded for advanced melanoma, despite having dramatic results for Lynch Syndrome patients worldwide.
Should Keytruda be funded in NZ?
🧩😏 Riddle me this, Neighbours…
I am an odd number. Take away a letter and I become even. What number am I?
Do you think you know the answer?
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Scam Alert: Bank cold calls
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.
Notice of intention to control targeted weeds
Weather permitting spot spraying will be carried out in the following areas during March 2026.
Albert-Eden,
Puketapapa & Whau
Local Boards,
Auckland Domain,
Manukau Memorial Gardens,
North Shore
Memorial Park,
Waikumete Cemetery.
Herbicide applications will be carried out in reserves, cycleways, street gardens, street kerb and channels and berms/boundary edges. No spraying will be undertaken in agreed no-spray zones, during this period.
Auckland Council operates from a Code of Practice that governs all spray operations. Spraying will be undertaken by Programmed Facility Management.
For more information please phone Auckland Council on 09 301 0101.
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