Dad misses toddler's birthday, Christmas and first steps due to lengthy visa delays
They met while they were still in high school, married two years later and had a child.
But the promise of a dream life together was threatened by lengthy immigration delays that kept Rahul Sharma, 25, away from his young family for more than 18 months.
Liz Sharma is desperate to see her husband again, especially for their 19-month-old daughter, Alia, who can only keep in touch with her dad online.
INZ visa services manager Michael Carley said the department "acknowledges that it has taken longer than it should have to assess this application and apologises for the delay".
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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76.6% Yes
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22.1% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
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82.1% Yes
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15.2% No
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2.7% Other - I'll share below