Western Lake, Featherston

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1805 days ago

New research shows disparities in quality of kids' sleep

Kelly Dennett Reporter from Sunday Star Times

Hi parents and families, we are looking to speak to parents of young children who are willing to talk about their kids' sleep quality, to accompany a story about new research on children's sleep patterns. If you are willing to be named and photographed, please contact us here, or email … View moreHi parents and families, we are looking to speak to parents of young children who are willing to talk about their kids' sleep quality, to accompany a story about new research on children's sleep patterns. If you are willing to be named and photographed, please contact us here, or email kelly.dennett@stuff.co.nz.

1805 days ago

Whairepo Lagoon & Taranaki Diving Platform water sampling results

The Team from Wellington Water

Due to increasing wastewater contamination in the stormwater network that flows into the inner Wellington harbour during high rainfall events, we have increased the frequency of water sampling to daily.

The most recent sampling at Whairepo Lagoon and the Taranaki Diving Platform shows high levels … View more
Due to increasing wastewater contamination in the stormwater network that flows into the inner Wellington harbour during high rainfall events, we have increased the frequency of water sampling to daily.

The most recent sampling at Whairepo Lagoon and the Taranaki Diving Platform shows high levels of Enterococci. These areas have been determined as unsuitable for swimming and other recreational activities due to these results.

We encourage the public to protect their health by not swimming in the area and be careful about any contact with the water. We will be placing no swimming signs in the area today.

We will provide an update when the water is suitable for swimming.

You can check recreational water quality results for your favourite swimming sites on the LAWA map.

1805 days ago

Hunt safely this summer

Piers Fuller Reporter from News of Wairarapa

Hunters making the most of the holidays by heading into the bush and mountain ranges are being reminded to keep safe by the Department of Conservation (DOC).
“Summer sees a lot of different people out and about on conservation land throughout the country, taking advantage of the holidays and long… View more
Hunters making the most of the holidays by heading into the bush and mountain ranges are being reminded to keep safe by the Department of Conservation (DOC).
“Summer sees a lot of different people out and about on conservation land throughout the country, taking advantage of the holidays and long daylight hours,” says Mark Beardsley, DOC’s national key contact for recreational hunting.
“Be conscious of who else might be out there in the bush – whether it’s day walkers, people using huts on overnight tramps, or families enjoying a few nights camping. Even if you’ve booked a hunting block, don’t assume you’re the only person in the area.
“Whether you’re after deer, tahr or pigs, planning before you set off goes a long way to keeping you and your hunting party safe and making sure you get the most out of your trip,” he adds.
With the increasing affordability of hunting technology like thermal imaging, Mark also urges people to follow the rules and not hunt after dark. It poses a serious risk to others and is not permitted.
“New tech might be an exciting stocking filler, but all-night hunting and activities like spotlighting or the use of night vision equipment is strictly prohibited on public conservation land.
“After a long day out hunting, it’s better for you and your hunting party take the opportunity to rest and swap a few stories.”
The Mountain Safety Council is also reminding hunters taking advantage of the summer weather to keep safe this month as they roam the backcountry.
“Safety is the result of good planning and good decision making,” says Chief Executive, Mike Daisley. “As part of your planning, it’s a good time to freshen up your blaze so you can be seen, and other hunters can easily identify who you are.
“Most importantly, every hunter when identifying your target, ensure you have identified the age, sex and health of the animal before pulling the trigger. Know exactly what type of animal you are about to harvest.”
Mark Beardsley adds that while it’s important to keep safe, the summer holidays are a great hunting opportunity for South Island Himalayan tahr hunters.
DOC has mapped the locations of thousands of bull tahr recently observed on conservation land and hunters can use this information when planning their next hunt. A new smart phone app will also formally recognise their tahr hunting efforts.
“DOC is encouraging all tahr hunters to record their hunt using the new Tahr App. We will be able to use this information when planning future control operations to keep the wider tahr population under control.”
Mark says no matter the target, its important all hunters have a current hunting permit before they head out and comply with local hunting restrictions.“Keep safe, know the rules and enjoy the summer.”
Information on where to hunt on public conservation land, how to get a permit and safe hunting practice can be found on the DOC website.

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1805 days ago

Warning to swimmers and dog walkers in Wairarapa

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

A severe toxic algal bloom has developed along the whole of the Waipoua River in Wairarapa, with algae and detached mats building up at the river margins. People and their pets are urged to avoid the river and its banks until conditions improve.

Wherever toxic algae is present it is important to… View more
A severe toxic algal bloom has developed along the whole of the Waipoua River in Wairarapa, with algae and detached mats building up at the river margins. People and their pets are urged to avoid the river and its banks until conditions improve.

Wherever toxic algae is present it is important to keep an eye on babies and toddlers who may put objects in their mouths. Seek emergency medical attention immediately if anyone in your group swallows toxic algae.

Before you swim, keep yourself safe by finding out about toxic algae at here.

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1805 days ago

Fernside Garden opening

The beautiful private garden at Fernside, Tauherenikau will be open for two days on 15 & 16 February 2020 as a fundraiser for the Greytown Little Theatre new building project. Tickets would make a great Xmas present - come in and get them from either the Masterton or Martinborough i-SITEs … View moreThe beautiful private garden at Fernside, Tauherenikau will be open for two days on 15 & 16 February 2020 as a fundraiser for the Greytown Little Theatre new building project. Tickets would make a great Xmas present - come in and get them from either the Masterton or Martinborough i-SITEs today. Just $28

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1806 days ago

DIXON ST

The Team from Wellington Water

As part of the urgent works on Dixon St we’ve had a drill rig onsite, drilling to install posts which will help shape the chamber required to make repairs to the wastewater pipe and tunnel.

This afternoon while drilling and pumping concrete to create one of the posts, part of the tunnel wall … View more
As part of the urgent works on Dixon St we’ve had a drill rig onsite, drilling to install posts which will help shape the chamber required to make repairs to the wastewater pipe and tunnel.

This afternoon while drilling and pumping concrete to create one of the posts, part of the tunnel wall collapsed into the existing void, creating a larger hole.

There was a small overflow of wastewater onto the street, which has been cleaned up, and crews are working to ensure wastewater is diverted from the area to reduce the risk of further overflows into the stormwater network and the harbour.

Sucker trucks are also being deployed to transport wastewater away from this part of the network. This will extend the amount of time we’ll have to install a temporary bypass, expected to be in place by early morning.

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1810 days ago

1-month horse grazing Featherston

Julia Neighbourly Lead from South Wairarapa District

Is anyone looking for grazing and horse care over the Christmas/New Year period? I have a little over a half-acre of lush grazing available. Plus I have experience with horses, and can keep an eye on their wellbeing. This is in exchange for your willingness to rake up and bag the poo for my use.

1806 days ago

Wairarapa gifts for those hard to buy for people - come and see us

Check out these ideas for Wairarapa gifts - tickets for events here over the summer or vouchers for great experiences make a great Xmas presents - come in and get them from either the Masterton or Martinborough i-SITEs today. We've got heaps of cool ideas.

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1806 days ago

Thank you New Zealand

Countdown New Zealand

Thank you New Zealand. Your nominations helped us find a local hero for every Countdown store in the country.

Every store’s winner receives a $500 Countdown Gift voucher in recognition of helping make our community a better place.
Xmas Hub

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1806 days ago

Tunnel Gulley - Vehicle access

Kobus from Maymorn

With the ongoing work taking place at Tunnel Gulley, access is currently limited to cyclists and walkers as the bridge at the entrance is being replaced. Notice says that the vehicle access from February 2020 ( updated)
Note that the Rata trees (family of the Pohutukawa) are starting to flower. … View more
With the ongoing work taking place at Tunnel Gulley, access is currently limited to cyclists and walkers as the bridge at the entrance is being replaced. Notice says that the vehicle access from February 2020 ( updated)
Note that the Rata trees (family of the Pohutukawa) are starting to flower. Worth the visit to Tunnel Gully to view the red splender.

1807 days ago

Two days left to be in to WIN with Readers Tours & TV Guide!

Readers Tours

For over three decades, Readers Tours has been taking our loyal readers on unforgettable journeys exploring the rich history and culture of New Zealand’s hidden gems.

The much loved North and South Island Journeys are back for 2020, along with the launch of two new escapes in both the NorthView more
For over three decades, Readers Tours has been taking our loyal readers on unforgettable journeys exploring the rich history and culture of New Zealand’s hidden gems.

The much loved North and South Island Journeys are back for 2020, along with the launch of two new escapes in both the North and South Island. These new shorter escapes are the perfect length of time for those adventurous seniors who want a taste of the spectacular excursions and sights our country has to offer.

To celebrate the launch of our brand new tours, our friends at TV Guide and Neighbourly are giving away a year’s subscription for TV Guide to one lucky adventurer!

All you have to do is tell us a New Zealand destination you would love to visit via this link and you'll be in the draw to win!

Entries close 19th December 2019.

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