Sockburn, Christchurch

1019 days ago

Are you on the right power plan?

The Team from NZ Compare

We’ve all spent a lot of time at home last year, so many of us are in the same boat when it comes to our high power bills! GULP!

More Kiwis are now working from home, if that's you then it's time to check if you’re on the right power plan. SWITCH, SAVE and SMILE this Summer!

View more
We’ve all spent a lot of time at home last year, so many of us are in the same boat when it comes to our high power bills! GULP!

More Kiwis are now working from home, if that's you then it's time to check if you’re on the right power plan. SWITCH, SAVE and SMILE this Summer!

Compare with our help and find the right power plan for your household! It’s easy as!

Visit Power Compare to get yourself a better deal. Our service is free, we’re Kiwis helping Kiwis compare what’s out there across PowerBroadband and Money.
COMPARE MY POWER!

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1027 days ago

As a Christchurch street is blighted by starlings, how do you get rid of the winged pests?

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

From reporter Lee Kenny:
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For the Christchurch residents living in a street blighted by bird poo starlings are a menace – but how do you deal with the flying pests?

According to New Zealand Birds Online, the common starling was introduced for insect control, but they … View more
From reporter Lee Kenny:
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For the Christchurch residents living in a street blighted by bird poo starlings are a menace – but how do you deal with the flying pests?

According to New Zealand Birds Online, the common starling was introduced for insect control, but they are now found across Aotearoa and the Subantarctic Islands.

They nest in hollow trees, under house eaves and even in letter boxes. As well as creating a mess, they eat crops and make a noise, which some people find annoying.

There are a range of methods to discourage starlings, from the cheap to the costly.

Westport-based Maintrac Group sells a range of equipment for dealing with pests, like starlings.

These include the high-tech Bird-X, a $795 device that uses red and green laser beams to deter birds.

Deploying bird spikes is among the least expensive options. The stainless steel spikes can be adhered to surfaces, preventing birds from landing and therefore pooping on property below.

“A successful way to deter starlings is to prevent them from landing,” Maintrac Group's website says.

“Starlings need a lot of energy just to fly, so if they are prevented from landing near a food source they soon use up what energy they do have, and have to move off to other areas to feed. If one goes, they all go.”

Shiny holographic tape can also be applied to surfaces to discourage the birds from settling, while an artificial osprey hawk does a similar job.

Another option is a Carousel Gas Gun, which makes a loud bang and scares unwanted birds away.

The noise will be familiar to anyone who has spent time in the countryside, but the intermittent blasts might not be suitable for suburbia.

A less noisy option might be an ultrasonic bird and animal repellent, which emits a high-frequency sound to scare away flying pests.

Despite the thousands of starlings that descend on Dudley St, Richmond, each summer, one pest expert said they are not a common problem in Christchurch.

“The bird-work we do is usually involving pigeons,” Gary Hendrikse, director of Elite Pest Control, said.

“I don't think I've ever had a call to get rid of starlings.

“The only other nuisance birds are ones that nest in people's ceilings, that's often to do with preventing access.”

Other methods for discouraging starlings include removing nests and food sources, and patching up holes to areas that could be used as a nesting site.

1020 days ago

Tai Chi Class - Exercising with Energy

Sandy from Aidanfield

Tai Chi for Joy Class – exercise with energy healing, 1pm Monday, Halswell
Welcome to try your first class for FREE!
Guided by experienced Chinese teacher, Sandy Jiang, an accredited provider of the Strength and Balance Programme (Sports Canterbury)

Venue: Halswell Community Hall, 450 Halswell … View more
Tai Chi for Joy Class – exercise with energy healing, 1pm Monday, Halswell
Welcome to try your first class for FREE!
Guided by experienced Chinese teacher, Sandy Jiang, an accredited provider of the Strength and Balance Programme (Sports Canterbury)

Venue: Halswell Community Hall, 450 Halswell Road, Christchurch
Time: Mondays, 8 classes a term

Improving balance, posture, memory, flexibility, energy, immune system, relaxation, and well-being and proven to prevent falls, protecting bones and joints.

Free 1st visit: Come and try the graceful Tai Chi movements
~ the combination of yoga, gentle stretching, energy healing and meditation ~

Contact your teacher: Sandy Email: sandyjsky@gmail.com

Beginners: 1~ 2 pm
$80 per term ($10) or $12 casual,
$64 per term ($8) or $10 casual for Community Service card or SuperGold card holders
Practising Warm-up, Tai Chi for Arthritis, Rotating Tiger or Shaking Plumes (Qigong)

Experienced: 1 ~ 2:30 pm
$112 per term ($14) or $16 casual,
$96 per term ($12) or $14 casual for Community Service card or SuperGold card holders
Practising Yang style Tai Chi - 8 form and 24 form, Tai Chi Kungfu Fan during the last 30 min

What to bring:
1. Vaccine pass
2. Mask use is encouraged (classmates and Sandy can take masks off when exercising though)
3. We will sit down about 10 min in between to read a Qigong book (Qigong is the foundation to Tai Chi). If you need reading glasses, please bring them with you.
4. Drinking bottle: a thermal one is suggested
5. Wear comfortable clothes with a pair of flat-soled shoes.

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1020 days ago

3Ply High Quality Affordable 3 Ply Disposable 3-Ply 3-Layer Face Mask x 20pcs

Dave from Hornby

Wearing quality 3-ply face mask can helps decrease the transmission of airborne dust and fluids etc.

Keep your friends, family members and others from contracting your cold of flu.

Comfortable to wear.

Please ensure proper disposal after use.

View more
Wearing quality 3-ply face mask can helps decrease the transmission of airborne dust and fluids etc.

Keep your friends, family members and others from contracting your cold of flu.

Comfortable to wear.

Please ensure proper disposal after use.

Features:

3-layer Non-Woven Medical Mask
High density non-woven BFE up to 99%
Elastic soft ear loop
Adjustable metal nose band embedded
Maximum Facial contour Coverage
One size fit most adult design

Specifications:

Color: Blue
Outer layer: non-woven fabric
Middle layer: Polypropylene melt-blown fabric
Inner layer: soft non-woven fabric
Product Dimension (L x H): 17.5 x 9.5 cm

Package Contents:

1 x pack of 20 Pieces disposable medical face mask (New/sealed)

Pickup in Hornby

Price: $10

1035 days ago

Covid-19: Older, vulnerable Kiwis urged to ‘hunker down’ when Omicron cases peak

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

From reporter Cate Broughton:
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Older and vulnerable people are being encouraged to “hunker down” in their homes during the peak of the Omicron virus, by some health experts – but others say this isn’t necessary.

New Zealand epidemiologist Professor Tony … View more
From reporter Cate Broughton:
------------------------------
Older and vulnerable people are being encouraged to “hunker down” in their homes during the peak of the Omicron virus, by some health experts – but others say this isn’t necessary.

New Zealand epidemiologist Professor Tony Blakely is based at Melbourne University and says he encouraged his nearly 80-year-old parents – who live in Rotorua – to stay at home when Omicron cases climb and the virus becomes endemic.

However, Cancer Society medical director Kate Gregory said there was not enough evidence to support giving this advice to cancer patients.

On Sunday, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern confirmed there was community transmission of the Omicron variant in New Zealand.

The Ministry of Health on Monday reported confirmed Omicron cases in the Nelson-Tasman region, Auckland and Palmerston North.

Blakely said he talked to his parents about continuing their usual activities while using a N95 mask, but “hunkering down” when cases climbed.

“You probably do that for another 10 days until case numbers start to go up in Rotorua, and then you really hunker down. So that’s what we’ve talked about.”

Blakely said “the maths of an epidemic” meant up to half of the population was likely to get infected with Omicron.

“The trick is to make sure the people who get infected are the young ones. So you accept that. You accept there will be hospitalisations associated with that.

But to minimise the hospitalisations, the mortality and morbidity – a bit like trench warfare – you send over the young ones, and you hunker down the oldies and those with co-morbidities.”

Blakely said his parents, who are double vaccinated and have had their booster, had already decided to stay at home when cases climbed.

But he said it was hard to say how long this period should last.

New Zealand’s traffic light setting of red – the highest level of restrictions under the traffic light system –would help to slow the spread of Omicron, and protect essential services from being overwhelmed, but this would also mean the peak of the virus would last longer, Blakely said.

“Here’s the deep irony, the better New Zealanders are at flattening the curve, the longer the hunker down will be.”

Blakely acknowledged prolonged periods of isolation for the elderly and vulnerable could have significant mental health impacts.

In Australia, Omicron has taken a huge toll on the aged-care sector with hundreds of outbreaks in aged care homes. But some families have said the lockdowns were overly cautious and too hard on the elderly residents, most of whom were fully vaccinated.

Wellington GP and Royal New Zealand College of General Practice (RNZCGPs) medical director Bryan Betty said the Australian experience of Omicron showed it could peak for as long as four to six weeks.

Betty said most people – including fit older people – would experience a mild to moderate illness, if infected.

“However, the caveat on this is ... we know the biggest risk factor for a poorer outcome from Covid is age, the elderly population in particular are vulnerable to a poorer outcome with Covid.”

Betty said it would be good for older people to consider staying home, with some support from friends and family, “as the case numbers rise” in the community.

Cancer Society medical director Kate Gregory said there was not enough evidence to date to support advising patients to stay home, but this could change “if we see much higher numbers”.

“If, in a week’s time we are seeing thousands and thousands of cases we may be advising people differently. I think the reassuring thing we’ve seen is that Omicron doesn’t seem to cause such severe disease and we know the vaccine provides very good protection.”

Gregory said for cancer patients the best defence is to be vaccinated and for the people in their households to be vaccinated.”

She said in her experience a “vast majority” of cancer patients had received two doses of Covid-19 vaccine, many with a third primary dose.

“It’s a frightening time, and especially for those who are more vulnerable.

"I think as long as people have the vaccine, wear the mask, do the hand-washing and get tested promptly, I think that’s probably fine. At the moment, that’s the advice we’re giving our patients.”

1021 days ago

Seniors Newsletter

Office for Seniors

Our February Seniors newsletter is out now. In this issue we announce our Age friendly fund successful recipients, shine a light on the those nominated for the New Years Honours for Services to Seniors and much more. Check it out here: mailchi.mp...

1021 days ago

Poll: You be the (photographic) judge!

Ashleigh from Neighbourly.co.nz

Kia ora Aotearoa. Stuff has just finished their annual Summer Snaps competition and we’re thrilled to announce that you'll be the judge of the People and Communities photograph category.

The entries in this category have been shortlisted and we now have five brilliantly captured … View more
Kia ora Aotearoa. Stuff has just finished their annual Summer Snaps competition and we’re thrilled to announce that you'll be the judge of the People and Communities photograph category.

The entries in this category have been shortlisted and we now have five brilliantly captured photographs to battle it out. There's a camera up for grabs for our talented photographers, and it's up to you to choose who takes the crown...and the Canon EOS!

Cast your vote in the poll below before 12pm, 11 February.

You be the (photographic) judge!
  • 53.5% Finalist 1: Full Moon
    53.5% Complete
  • 14.8% Finalist 2: Girl's Camp
    14.8% Complete
  • 11.4% Finalist 3: First Ride in a Steam Train
    11.4% Complete
  • 16.2% Finalist 4: Grandparents at Sunset
    16.2% Complete
  • 1.9% Finalist 5: Brass Band
    1.9% Complete
  • 2.1% Finalist 6: Street Walk
    2.1% Complete
1268 votes
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1022 days ago

Free couch

Pawan from Russley

We are giving away 3 old couches (2 seater) at no cost. Red one is in good condition only some sunlight shades never used for pets.
Green couches are old but still have some life never used for Pets.
We are happy to drop off within Christchurch.
If any questions flick me a message.
Thank … View more
We are giving away 3 old couches (2 seater) at no cost. Red one is in good condition only some sunlight shades never used for pets.
Green couches are old but still have some life never used for Pets.
We are happy to drop off within Christchurch.
If any questions flick me a message.
Thank you

Free

1022 days ago

Hot dry summer raised wildfire risk awareness

Climate Insights

Peri-urban areas can be described as the landscape interface between town and country or the rural-urban transition zone where urban and rural areas mix.

The probability of wildfire is driven by the amount and dryness of fuel, ambient weather and ignitions. Dry weather exacerbates wildfire risk… View more
Peri-urban areas can be described as the landscape interface between town and country or the rural-urban transition zone where urban and rural areas mix.

The probability of wildfire is driven by the amount and dryness of fuel, ambient weather and ignitions. Dry weather exacerbates wildfire risk in this zone and could significantly impact your property! With one of New Zealand’s hottest and driest summers, discover your property’s fire risk and what you can do to reduce it.

We can produce personalised reports for any house on the planet!

Click here to get your property report: https://property-climate-risk-report.co.nz/
Know more

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1023 days ago

handcrafted gifts

Helen from Ilam

Helen's Crafty Corner NZ. sells gifts for all ages, made in Christchurch. For more information to view and purchase goods you can follow me through Facebook or contact me via Battersby.helen@yahoo.co.nz.
See below a small sample of items we sell. Knitted flowers in a container $18, … View more
Helen's Crafty Corner NZ. sells gifts for all ages, made in Christchurch. For more information to view and purchase goods you can follow me through Facebook or contact me via Battersby.helen@yahoo.co.nz.
See below a small sample of items we sell. Knitted flowers in a container $18, Traditional story finger puppet sets $20, Children's knitting ranges between $20-$40 depending on style and size, Fashion bags $35, Children's picture book $14.50 or book/bag/toy combination $40.

Negotiable

1023 days ago

Addictive Eaters Anonymous

The Team from Addictive Eaters Anonymous - Christchurch

A Life Beyond Food and Addiction

I don’t remember being obsessed with food when I was very young, the way I was to become. I remember starting to eat at any opportunity I could get. I would arrive home early at meal times to check what was in the pans. Saturday afternoons were spent baking, … View more
A Life Beyond Food and Addiction

I don’t remember being obsessed with food when I was very young, the way I was to become. I remember starting to eat at any opportunity I could get. I would arrive home early at meal times to check what was in the pans. Saturday afternoons were spent baking, while my friends were out shopping. I went on to develop a love for raw cake batter and butter icing and I would make it up when I was desperate for food. Once I started getting money, I would buy sweets and secretly eat them. Meal times were awful, I never felt fulfilled.

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1023 days ago

Anti Glare Sunglasses Day-Vision Drivers Goggles Red Accents Glasses x 1pr

Dave from Hornby

Day Drivers Glasses Protective Gears Sunglasses Drivers Goggles Red Accents Driving Glasses Interior Accessories Anti Glare - 1 x Pair DAY ONLY (See other listings for YELLOW NIGHT GLASSES or PR of each)

Makes a great gift for the Driver in your family!

Features:

100% new and high quality.… View more
Day Drivers Glasses Protective Gears Sunglasses Drivers Goggles Red Accents Driving Glasses Interior Accessories Anti Glare - 1 x Pair DAY ONLY (See other listings for YELLOW NIGHT GLASSES or PR of each)

Makes a great gift for the Driver in your family!

Features:

100% new and high quality.

Wear black lenses during the day to eliminate roads and road signs while driving. And the glare of the car glass, anti-snow blind, reduce the stimulation of the eyes.

Specifications:

Material: PC

Black lens For daylight

Package included:

1 x pr of Day Driver Goggles (1 x Black with Red Accents)

Price: $12

1023 days ago

Quality Compression Arthritis Gloves Wrist Support Joint Pain Relief Grey S/M/L

Dave from Hornby

Brand new. I have a few of these available.

Quality Compression Arthritis Gloves Wrist Support Joint Pain Relief Grey - Grey - SMALL MEDIUM or LARGE (See images for size measurement)

Specifications:

Weight: 50g Per Pair
Material: High Quality Polyester Spandex 12% and Cotton 88%
Suit … View more
Brand new. I have a few of these available.

Quality Compression Arthritis Gloves Wrist Support Joint Pain Relief Grey - Grey - SMALL MEDIUM or LARGE (See images for size measurement)

Specifications:

Weight: 50g Per Pair
Material: High Quality Polyester Spandex 12% and Cotton 88%
Suit for: Adult Male or Female

Features:
* Relieve Pain and Tension: When your hand is hurting, it help distract your attention. Provides extra support for the thumb, fingers, wrists and joints by providing gentle compression focusing on pressure points.

* Retain Finger Movement For Typing: The open fingertip design allows normal activity as usual.

* Gentle compression helps relieve pain without affecting blood flow in the hand . With a large area of grip and open fingertips allow freedom to feel, touch and grip.

* Easy to clean: if the glove is dirty, just wash the glove like normal clothing. wash and dry every few days to maintain their comfort and performance.

Hand Protection & Healthcare: High elasticity compression gloves, help relieve hand pain and swelling caused by arthritis, promote blood circulation, relax muscle and reduce hand fatigue.

Please allow 1-2cm measuring deviation due to manual measurement.

Due to various monitors and lighting conditions, colors may be slightly different from listed photos

3 x sizes available: S, M or L (Please advise required size when providing address after purchase).

Packing List

1 Pair x Compression Arthritis Gloves

Price: $18

1023 days ago

Treat yourself or someone you care about this Valentines Day

Stuff

Purchase a six month subscription to the Sunday Star-Times for $102 and get a free $100 Interflora e-voucher. Terms and conditions apply. Subscribe Now

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1024 days ago

2004 Nissan Primera

Andy from Aidanfield

Only 96000km,1 owner since imported, insurance agreed value $4400

Price: $3,400

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