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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.
2 for 1 ticket offer
It’s all about idea’s, inspiration and exclusive show specials at the Otago Home and Garden Show on from the 27th of February to 1st March at Edgar Centre, Dunedin. Join the fun with our 2 for 1 Adult Ticket Offer
There are so many fabulous reasons to visit the … View more2 for 1 ticket offer
It’s all about idea’s, inspiration and exclusive show specials at the Otago Home and Garden Show on from the 27th of February to 1st March at Edgar Centre, Dunedin. Join the fun with our 2 for 1 Adult Ticket Offer
There are so many fabulous reasons to visit the show with a huge range of Home and Garden Exhibitors, featuring everything from Builders, Renovators, Homewares, Flooring, Heating and Cooling, Saunas, Outdoor Products, Furnishings, Plants, Artisan Goods, Lifestyle Products and more! All you need under one roof for that next project at home, bring along your plans, questions and ideas! Take a break from the shopping and enjoy great food, coffee! Grab your discounted www.eventbrite.co.nz...) |2 for 1 ticket offer| today and enjoy the Show with a friend.
Save the date in your diaries and connect with local businesses from the 27th of February to 1st March at the Otago Home & Garden Show
Fri & Sat 10 – 5, Sun 10 – 4
Edgar Centre, Dunedin
Adults $5
Gold Card Friday $2.50
Under 16 free
Central Hamilton businesses are welcoming police being given new powers to move on vagrants, with a city retail advocate saying the previous hands-off approach wasn’t working.
On Sunday the Government announced it would … View moreCentral Hamilton businesses are welcoming police being given new powers to move on vagrants, with a city retail advocate saying the previous hands-off approach wasn’t working.
On Sunday the Government announced it would grant police powers to order any individual rough sleeping, begging, or displaying disorderly behaviour to move on.
What do you think of the new police move-on powers? Tell us more in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).
Hi neighbours!
At Graham’s Painters we bring 40+ years of experience, a friendly team of over 20+ full-time professionals, and a “get-it-done” attitude to every job big or small.
We specialise in interior/exterior painting, roof painting, house washing, decking, fencing, wallpapering, … View moreHi neighbours!
At Graham’s Painters we bring 40+ years of experience, a friendly team of over 20+ full-time professionals, and a “get-it-done” attitude to every job big or small.
We specialise in interior/exterior painting, roof painting, house washing, decking, fencing, wallpapering, and cedar weatherboards. We’re tidy, punctual, and perfect for busy families, non-DIYers, and retirees.
Discounts available for SuperGold Card holders
Serving all of Wellington, Hutt Valley & up to Plimmerton.
Message us today for a free quote, we’d love to help bring your home to life!
He comes from a country where pies aren't a thing, but Rathmony Chiv has made a career out of them.
You can find him at Bite The Pie Bakery & Cafe, 39A Vercoe Road, Beerescourt, Hamilton.
The Reserve Bank has shared some pretty blunt advice: there’s no such thing as a “safe” job anymore 🛟😑
Robots are stepping into repetitive roles in factories, plants and warehouses. AI is taking care of the admin tasks that once filled many mid-level office jobs.
We want to know: … View moreThe Reserve Bank has shared some pretty blunt advice: there’s no such thing as a “safe” job anymore 🛟😑
Robots are stepping into repetitive roles in factories, plants and warehouses. AI is taking care of the admin tasks that once filled many mid-level office jobs.
We want to know: As the world evolves, what skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
Want to read more? The Press has you covered!
DOC is rolling out a new tool to help figure out what to tackle first when it comes to protecting our threatened species and the things putting them at risk.
Why does this matter? As Nikki Macdonald from The Post points out, we’re a country with around 4,400 threatened species. With limited … View moreDOC is rolling out a new tool to help figure out what to tackle first when it comes to protecting our threatened species and the things putting them at risk.
Why does this matter? As Nikki Macdonald from The Post points out, we’re a country with around 4,400 threatened species. With limited time and funding, conservation has always meant making tough calls about what gets attention first.
For the first time, DOC has put real numbers around what it would take to do everything needed to properly safeguard our unique natural environment. The new BioInvest tool shows the scale of the challenge: 310,177 actions across 28,007 sites.
Now that we can see the full picture, it brings the big question into focus: how much do we, as Kiwis, truly value protecting nature — and what are we prepared to invest to make it happen?
We hope this brings a smile!
www.facebook.com...
#FORSALE : 15 Bendrose Crescent, Wigram, Canterbury 8025
Auction Thursday 12th March
4 🛏️| 2 🚿| 2 🚽| 1 🍽️ | 1 🛋️ I 2 🚘
Wake up to open green spaces and the sound of children playing across the neighbouring playground. This peaceful park-side home … View morewww.facebook.com...
#FORSALE : 15 Bendrose Crescent, Wigram, Canterbury 8025
Auction Thursday 12th March
4 🛏️| 2 🚿| 2 🚽| 1 🍽️ | 1 🛋️ I 2 🚘
Wake up to open green spaces and the sound of children playing across the neighbouring playground. This peaceful park-side home offers privacy, space, and a true sense of community a lifestyle many want, but few secure.
✨ Master suite retreat
✨ Stylish kitchen with walk-in pantry
✨ Sun-soaked entertainer’s deck
✨ Cosy wood burner + separate formal lounge
✨ Fully fenced 560m² section
✨ Double internal-access garage + off-street parking
🔥 Highly motivated vendors – no Plan B. Act fast!
Property Link : www.harcourtsgold.co.nz...
𝐒𝐄𝐋𝐋 𝐨𝐫 𝐁𝐔𝐘 - Real Estate
📱020 4088 1699
🖥️dhaval.l@harcourtsgold.co.nz
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 … View moreOnce 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.
The sun through the skylight, a tui singing in the garden and a fresh batch of scones on the kitchen bench... that’s what ‘A Better Everyday’ feels like at Waiapu Village. Just minutes from Havelock North Village, Waiapu is a smaller village where you’re never just a number.
To discover… View moreThe sun through the skylight, a tui singing in the garden and a fresh batch of scones on the kitchen bench... that’s what ‘A Better Everyday’ feels like at Waiapu Village. Just minutes from Havelock North Village, Waiapu is a smaller village where you’re never just a number.
To discover how good life can be at Waiapu Village, visit our Open Home or call Jude on 027 215 8156 for a tour. We can’t wait to show you around!
Make a hearty dish. Take just half a minute. Add four parts of kestrel. Then just add one. What have you made?
(Trev from Silverdale kindly provided this head-scratcher ... thanks, Trev!)
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the… View moreMake a hearty dish. Take just half a minute. Add four parts of kestrel. Then just add one. What have you made?
(Trev from Silverdale kindly provided this head-scratcher ... thanks, Trev!)
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm on the day!
Want to stop seeing these in your newsfeed? No worries! Simply head here and click once on the Following button.
Visit our exciting new Showhome at 3 Springwater Drive, Awa Park, Feilding!
G.J. Gardner Homes are acknowledged for their innovative design concepts. Our designers are continually coming up with fresh ideas and creative living plans. Here’s your chance to view some of their latest ideas … View moreVisit our exciting new Showhome at 3 Springwater Drive, Awa Park, Feilding!
G.J. Gardner Homes are acknowledged for their innovative design concepts. Our designers are continually coming up with fresh ideas and creative living plans. Here’s your chance to view some of their latest ideas incorporated into this stunning showhome.
If you’re thinking of building and are looking for ideas and inspiration, make this your first step!
Can anyone help.. My husband is looking to buy any old sporting items.. - match day programmes or magazines.. Rugby, Football, Cricket, Soccer etc to add to his collection... Also any other interesting sporting memorabilia including Rugby Collector Cards, Postcards, Badges etc etc.. Please message … View moreCan anyone help.. My husband is looking to buy any old sporting items.. - match day programmes or magazines.. Rugby, Football, Cricket, Soccer etc to add to his collection... Also any other interesting sporting memorabilia including Rugby Collector Cards, Postcards, Badges etc etc.. Please message me or email hubby on mjbraithwaite@xtra.co.nz
2 for 1 ticket offer
Get all those new year jobs sorted with a visit to the Show! It’s all about idea’s, inspiration and exclusive show specials at the Rotorua Home and Garden Show on from the 20th - 22nd of February at Energy Events Centre. Join the fun with our 2 for 1 Adult Ticket Offer… View more2 for 1 ticket offer
Get all those new year jobs sorted with a visit to the Show! It’s all about idea’s, inspiration and exclusive show specials at the Rotorua Home and Garden Show on from the 20th - 22nd of February at Energy Events Centre. Join the fun with our 2 for 1 Adult Ticket Offer
There’ll be a huge variety Home and Garden Exhibitors, featuring everything from Kitchens, Artists, Builders, Landscaping, Heating, Spas, Flooring, Heatlh & Well-being and more! Add to that good food, great coffee and you have the perfect day out. Get your to-do list ready and we'll see you at the Show.
Save the date in your diaries: 20 - 22 February
Fri & Sat 10 – 5, Sun 10 – 4
Energy Events Centre, Rotorua
Adults $6
Gold Card Friday $3
Under 16 free
Monthly AEA Web Events
The AEA Web Event is a monthly online meeting where AEA members from all over the world come together to share their experience, strength and hope. Three members speak for 10 minutes each, followed by member sharing.
ALL NEWCOMERS WELCOME.
Neighbourhood locals are invited to the Auckland Seniors & Travel Expo, a relaxed and welcoming event bringing lifestyle, leisure, and travel together under one roof. Meet 50+ exhibitors showcasing travel ideas, retirement living, mobility solutions, health services, finance, and local clubs. … View moreNeighbourhood locals are invited to the Auckland Seniors & Travel Expo, a relaxed and welcoming event bringing lifestyle, leisure, and travel together under one roof. Meet 50+ exhibitors showcasing travel ideas, retirement living, mobility solutions, health services, finance, and local clubs. Enjoy live music from Kulios, café seating, door prizes, and be in to win a Luxury Beachfront Escape for Two to Rarotonga.
We are bringing you the latest list of recalled products from across the country. Make sure you aren't using these at home!
Click on the blue text to learn more about that particular product and why it was recalled.
Food and household item recalls:
⚠️Cereulide toxin risk in … View moreWe are bringing you the latest list of recalled products from across the country. Make sure you aren't using these at home!
Click on the blue text to learn more about that particular product and why it was recalled.
Food and household item recalls:
⚠️Cereulide toxin risk in Nestlé brand Alfamino Infant Formula (0-12 months) recalled due to the possible presence of the toxin cereulide
Nestlé Milo Dipped Snack Bars
BC Hot Water Bottles sold at Bargain Chemist
Product Recalls: Infant care and clothing
Nature Baby Sleeping Gown
Product Recalls: Toys
Sensory Game Controller - sold at Kmart
Product Recalls: Cosmetics
Outside Beauty & Skincare SPF 50+ Mineral Primer (2 batches)
Anessa and Shiseido Anessa sunscreens sold only at Daikoku
Biore and Kao Biore sunscreens sold only at Daikoku
Kose Sunscreens sold only at Daikoku
Mentholatum sunscreens sold only at Daikoku
Pigeon sunscreens sold only at Daikoku
Rohto sunscreens sold only at Daikoku
Product Recalls: Electronics
Harvest Right Freeze Dryer HRFDSBKP-PP sold at Costco
Product Recalls: Other
Michelin X Multi Z and X Line Energy Z, size: 355/50R22.5, load/speed index:156K
UPDATED GASGAS Motorcycles: GASGAS Cross Country and Motocross model motorcycles with BRAKTEC brake system. New VINS added
Check the New Zealand Transport Agency's handy vehicle recall list here.
See past months' recalls. Stay safe, neighbours!
Neighbourhood locals are invited to the Auckland Seniors & Travel Expo, a relaxed and welcoming event bringing lifestyle, leisure, and travel together under one roof. Meet 50+ exhibitors showcasing travel ideas, retirement living, mobility solutions, health services, finance, and local clubs. … View moreNeighbourhood locals are invited to the Auckland Seniors & Travel Expo, a relaxed and welcoming event bringing lifestyle, leisure, and travel together under one roof. Meet 50+ exhibitors showcasing travel ideas, retirement living, mobility solutions, health services, finance, and local clubs. Enjoy live music from Kulios, café seating, door prizes, and be in to win a Luxury Beachfront Escape for Two to Rarotonga.
North Harbour Stadium
28 February & 1 March
10:00am – 3:00pm
$10 entry
Waverley and Surrounding areas - Sunday 22 February - 9AM to 5PM
Transpower, the owner and operator of the national grid, is carrying out important maintenance at the Waverley substation and its connecting lines
For this work to be completed safely and as quickly as possible, the substation … View moreWaverley and Surrounding areas - Sunday 22 February - 9AM to 5PM
Transpower, the owner and operator of the national grid, is carrying out important maintenance at the Waverley substation and its connecting lines
For this work to be completed safely and as quickly as possible, the substation will need to be turned off on Sunday 22 February.
We understand there is never a good time to be without power and apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
The map shows the areas likely to be affected. For useful tips to help you prepare, please click here.
If you have any questions, please contact us at communications@transpower.co.nz or phone 04 590 7000. You can also contact your power retailer.
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like … View moreAs reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
From 22 to 26 February, we will be replacing a bridge joint on SH1 Redoubt Road overbridge. Work will take place at night time (9pm to 5am) and there will be a full one- way closure with lane restrictions on the other side.
Please expect delays when travelling through the area.
Click here for … View moreFrom 22 to 26 February, we will be replacing a bridge joint on SH1 Redoubt Road overbridge. Work will take place at night time (9pm to 5am) and there will be a full one- way closure with lane restrictions on the other side.
Please expect delays when travelling through the area.
Click here for the Email alert sign up form
After ten years of depression, my life had hit rock bottom
I remember being ‘different’ around food for most of my life. This included things such as being the person who had two cream buns at morning tea when everyone else had one; eating icing sugar by the spoonful directly from the … View moreAfter ten years of depression, my life had hit rock bottom
I remember being ‘different’ around food for most of my life. This included things such as being the person who had two cream buns at morning tea when everyone else had one; eating icing sugar by the spoonful directly from the packet; and being the family member who went into the kitchen after dinner to eat the leftovers. There are numerous other examples – too many to list. I could overeat anything. If I couldn’t get my preferred favourites (e.g. chocolate), I’d be eating the vegetables.
Glaucoma Awareness Month will turn awareness into action. Our goal: empower more New Zealanders to have an eye health check and raise vital funds to support the work needed to prevent avoidable blindness.
Donate what you feel to get a Gift of Sight pack today. The pack lets families see vision … View moreGlaucoma Awareness Month will turn awareness into action. Our goal: empower more New Zealanders to have an eye health check and raise vital funds to support the work needed to prevent avoidable blindness.
Donate what you feel to get a Gift of Sight pack today. The pack lets families see vision loss firsthand with glaucoma simulation glasses and educational materials. It also prompts action with a voucher for a half-priced eye health check at Matthews Eyecare, OPSM or Specsavers, valid during March 2026.
Early detection saves sight, independence, and the lives people love. Make a donation of your choosing today.
As reported in the Press, the same low-pressure system that lashed the North Island over the weekend is now making its way south, bringing heavy rain and strong winds with it. It’s a soggy start to the week for many of us.
With more wild weather on the cards, we’re curious: do you have a … View moreAs reported in the Press, the same low-pressure system that lashed the North Island over the weekend is now making its way south, bringing heavy rain and strong winds with it. It’s a soggy start to the week for many of us.
With more wild weather on the cards, we’re curious: do you have a go-to adverse-weather checklist for your family? Or are you more of a “grab the torches and hope for the best” household?
Know someone in your community who is driving positive change?
Westfield is inviting you to nominate your local hero online.
The successful hero for each New Zealand Westfield destination will be awarded a $20,000 grant for the organisation or group they represent, and each finalist will … View moreKnow someone in your community who is driving positive change?
Westfield is inviting you to nominate your local hero online.
The successful hero for each New Zealand Westfield destination will be awarded a $20,000 grant for the organisation or group they represent, and each finalist will receive a $5,000 grant for their organisation or group.
Find out more about the program and nominate your Local Hero now
Otautahi Newsroom
Concerns are being raised about the safety, care standards, and duty of care at a Comcare-supported residential flat in Bishopdale, Christchurch, where vulnerable older men with significant mental health conditions are living.
An advocate speaking on behalf of four residents… View moreOtautahi Newsroom
Concerns are being raised about the safety, care standards, and duty of care at a Comcare-supported residential flat in Bishopdale, Christchurch, where vulnerable older men with significant mental health conditions are living.
An advocate speaking on behalf of four residents , says the men are experiencing ongoing intimidation, alleged abuse, and serious safety risks within the flat. The residents are described as having limited capacity to advocate for themselves and have asked for help to bring the situation to public attention.
The flat houses five male residents, all aged over 60 and all considered vulnerable adults with psychiatric illnesses. It is alleged that one resident, I (64), has displayed escalating aggressive and intimidating behaviour over a period of approximately five years. According to reports from residents and those advocating for them, this behaviour has included verbal threats, alleged physical incidents, repeated boundary violations, and conduct that has left others living in fear.
Reported incidents include police attendance following an alleged knife-related event and theft of personal property, an incident in which one resident was allegedly restrained in his bed, repeated verbal intimidation, and unauthorised entry into other residents’ bedrooms. There are also claims that staff members have been assaulted or felt unsafe attending the property, with some reportedly conducting visits from outside the flat due to safety concerns.
Advocates say the ongoing situation has had a severe impact on the mental and physical wellbeing of the affected residents. All four men report feeling unsafe in their own home, with some considering leaving the property despite believing they should not be forced out of housing they were promised would be safe and stable.
One resident, D, who has both mental health needs and a heart condition, is said to have taken on an informal role trying to protect others. Advocates argue this is inappropriate and unsafe, stating that residents should not be expected to manage high-risk situations without professional support. They also claim that Comcare has breached contractual commitments to provide safe, peaceful, and stable housing.
Further concerns have been raised about the suitability of the property itself. The Bishopdale house was originally a four-bedroom home with one bathroom but was altered to accommodate a fifth resident by converting a sunroom into a bedroom. Critics argue that having one toilet for five men over the age of 63 is inadequate and compromises dignity, health, and wellbeing.
There are also claims from a family member of a former resident that care provided to her terminally ill brother at the property was insufficient, adding to broader concerns about oversight and duty of care.
Despite multiple complaints reportedly being lodged with agencies, advocates say they have seen no meaningful action. They are now calling for urgent intervention, including:
• Immediate rehousing of resident I into a 24-hour staffed care facility, dementia care, or appropriate hospital setting
• An urgent, independent investigation into Comcare’s management of the Bishopdale property
• Assessment of whether elder abuse or neglect is occurring
• A full review of duty of care, risk management, and safeguarding practices
• Immediate measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the remaining residents
Advocates warn that without urgent action, there is a serious risk of harm. They say the men deserve to live without fear and with appropriate care that protects their dignity, mental health, and quality of life.
© Neighbourly 2026
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