RSV outbreak: Virus hitting Kiwi kids
Hospitals around New Zealand have been strained this week by the growing number of babies and children with RSV symptoms.
Christchurch Hospital has been forced to treat all patients as being potentially infected with Covid-19 as the symptoms are similar.
One Canterbury toddler, Meah Radford, was fine on Friday, but four days was in hospital in a life-threatening condition.
Mum Brittany Beddoes says it was the "scariest thing" she had ever experienced.
Click here to read more about Meah's experience and about the RSV outbreak.
What is RSV?
- A common respiratory illness caused by a virus
-Typically mild with symptoms similar to the common cold
-Can be severe in infants and vulnerable adults who can suffer fever, severe cough and difficulty breathing
-Parents are advised to call Healthline if concerned on 0800 611 116
Poll: Canterbury is thriving on paper... but are you seeing evidence of Canterbury's improving economy?
As reported in the Press, Reserve Bank Governor Anna Breman recently gave a shout-out to our region, calling Canterbury a "stand-out" for how we recover from tough times. With tech firms growing and exporters investing, the business side of things is looking bright!
👉 But we know that "business growth" doesn't always mean the weekly shop gets any cheaper. While the city expands, many families feel like they’re just trying to keep their heads above water.
We want to know: With the business buzz of 2026, do you feel like things are finally looking up for your household, or does it still feel like a climb?
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0% Yes
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0% No
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100% In some areas ...
🧩😏 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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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.
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