Architect's vision for MIQ 'pods' on Quail Island in Lyttelton Harbour
Architect Michael O’Sullivan suggests we take a cue from our own history to provide quarantine facilities for incoming travellers.
O’Sullivan says Quail Island in Lyttelton Harbour was used to quarantine people with leprosy more than a century ago, and is perfectly located to be an MIQ facility.
The architect, who has an office overlooking the harbour, has suggested a prefabricated pod design could provide suitable accommodation on the island. The pods would be environmentally and aesthetically responsive to the landscape.
The government has previously resisted suggestions that we should develop purpose-built MIQ facilities, including isolating people on military bases or other remote locations, in favour of using hotels.
What do you think of O'Sullivan's idea? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Brain Teaser of the Day 🧠✨ Can You Solve It? 🤔💬
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 comments below at 2pm on the day!
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Poll: 🤖 What skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
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: 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!
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52.5% Human-centred experience and communication
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15.6% Critical thinking
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29.5% Resilience and adaptability
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2.5% Other - I will share below!
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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