How does your faith shape your day-to-day life?
Hi neighbours. I'm looking to chat to some people about their religion for a project to be published in the Sunday Star-Times. The story will examine the role of religion and faith in New Zealand, and how it has changed over the last few decades.
Do you know of any unique places of worship in Auckland? Perhaps you have a special area in your home where your family meets to pray, or the way you cook and meet people is shaped by your faith? How does your faith help you through challenging times?
I'd love to hear from people of all religions - please email me a little bit about yourself at caroline.williams@stuff.co.nz if you're interested in sharing.
Six tips for improving security around your home
1) Improve outdoor lighting
Ensure that streets, driveways, and front yards are well-lit. Motion-sensor lights around homes deter trespassers by reducing hiding spots and illuminating their movements.
2) Trim your trees
Overgrown shrubs and trees provide cover for intruders. Keeping them well-trimmed around windows and doors improves visibility and reduces potential hiding spots.
3) Secure Entry Points
Ensure doors, windows, and gates are always closed when you are away from the house. Upgrade to more secure locks, deadbolts, or even smart locks for added protection.
4) Add a security camera
Place security cameras in the main entry points to your home. Doorbell cameras are also relatively cheap and a great way to keep track of who is visiting your home when you aren't there.
5) Start a Neighborhood Watch Program
You could reach out to members on Neighbourly to form a group of neighbors who can regularly keep an eye out for suspicious activity and report it. You could also check with Neighbourhood Support to see what is existing in your area.
6) Introduce yourself to your neighbours
The closer you are to your neighbors, the more likely they’ll notice when something unusual or suspicious is happening around your property
Feel free to share anything that you do around your area to deter crime.
Poll: Is dumping an issue in your neighbourhood?
There's nothing worse than strolling around the streets in your neighbourhood and seeing dumped rubbish.
Have you noticed this in your area? What could we do to combat this around the country?
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43.4% Yes, I've seen some illegal dumping
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56% No, our neighbourhood is pretty good
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0.6% Other - I'll share below
Poll: What special qualities should a 5-star New Zealand airport hotel at our largest international airport have?
Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport is New Zealand’s only 5-star airport hotel, given its incredibly close proximity to the airport, the convenience of walking to the airport is a major highlight but there are plenty of other features that make it special.
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5.3% Unmatched runway views with a private lounge
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45.9% Exceptional service from arrival to departure
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5.3% Gourmet dining featuring New Zealand's finest, celebrating Te Ao Māori kai
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36.3% A soundproof oasis with all desired amenities
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7.2% Māori culture reflected throughout, creating an architectural marvel