1622 days ago

Penguin couple defy odds to reach 24-year anniversary

Ripu Bhatia Reporter from Central Leader

A penguin couple at Kelly Tarlton’s aquarium are only year off their silver anniversary, a rare feat as penguins don’t always mate for life

Buster and 99 have nested together for 24 years, and reared 19 babies in that time.

Their eldest Goofy will turn 24 this year.

Penguin keeper said Kristen Buckley said after 24 years together the pair have their nesting routine down pat.

“We are so happy to see Buster & 99 coupling up for yet another nesting season this year – as they are our longest-standing couple in the Gentoo Penguin colony,” she said.

“Year after year we see them sharing the nest building and egg incubating responsibilities like the seasoned parents they are!”

Buckley said it is crucial that penguins make sure they are with good partner.

“Unlike other birds where one parent can raise a whole clutch of eggs by themselves, both penguin parents need to work together to successfully raise their chicks,” she said.

“They can't afford to have a partner that isn't very good at catching food or finding nesting material because this means that their chicks are very unlikely to make it to adulthood.”

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More messages from your neighbours
12 hours ago

Poll: If we want to reduce speeding, what do you think actually changes driver behaviour? 🛻🚨🚓

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

In the Post's article on speeding penalties, the question is asked whether speeding fines are truly about road safety, or are they just a way to boost revenue for the Crown?

What do you think? Should speeding motorists receive speeding fines or demerit points?

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If we want to reduce speeding, what do you think actually changes driver behaviour? 🛻🚨🚓
  • 30.2% The sting of a fine (Money talks!)
    30.2% Complete
  • 69.8% The threat of demerit points (Nobody wants to lose their license!)
    69.8% Complete
182 votes
5 days ago

Poll: Is Auckland’s economy improving?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The latest reporting from The Post suggests a wave of optimism for 2026. With interest rates finally heading south, businesses are feeling more positive. But for many on the ground, the real-world recovery feels a bit like a slow-moving commute on Auckland's motorways.

We want to know: Are you seeing signs of Auckland's economy improving in your industry or neighbourhood? Whether it's busier shops, new projects kicking off, or just a shift in the mood ...

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Is Auckland’s economy improving?
  • 16.9% Yes
    16.9% Complete
  • 65.6% No
    65.6% Complete
  • 17.5% A little
    17.5% Complete
183 votes
5 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