Homestead destroyed as major South Canterbury scrub fire burns for second day
Hi neighbours,
A large blaze burning through forestry in the Mackenzie District has destroyed a homestead as it continues to burn for a second day.
The fire has been burning since about 11.25am on Sunday after flaring up on a Twizel riverbed and spreading to a large forest on Mt Cook Rd.
It had grown to 2500 hectares and had a 23 kilometre perimeter by Sunday night.
The fire jumped Mt Cook Rd – State Highway 80 (SH80) – and is burning on both sides. SH80 and SH8 remain closed.
To read more, click here
Share your favourite main crop potato recipe and win a copy of our mag!
Love potatoes? We will give away free copies of the May 2026 issue to readers whose potato recipes are used in our magazine. To be in the running, make sure you email your family's favourite way to enjoy potatoes: mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, by March 1, 2026.
🧩😏 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?
Want to stop seeing these in your newsfeed? No worries! Simply head here and click once on the Following button.
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.
Loading…
