Random Acts of Kindness – August 1st to 31st 💞
All it takes is a kind gesture to change someone’s day. From paying it forward in line at a cafe to giving flowers to a neighbour ‘just because’ - this month we’re encouraging our members and supporters to make New Zealand a better place one random act of kindness at a time.
The options for doing so are endless! Being kind doesn’t have to cost a thing, after all a smile is free. For those who want to go the extra mile, here’s some other ideas: Buy extra kai at the grocery store to donate to a food bank, build a free community library for your street, bring treats into work for colleagues, send an encouraging text to someone who needs it, let a car into the traffic ahead of you, take a gift over to new neighbours and introduce yourself, write positive messages in chalk on sidewalks around your neighbourhood, or surprise loved ones with a visit.
This month’s theme also coincides with Random Acts of Kindness Day (New Zealand) which is coming up on September 1st.
Let us know how you’re spreading kindness in your community by tagging us in your posts + using the following hashtag so we can see what you get up to:
#NSNZrandomactsofkindness
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.
Warnings about scams
This Fraud Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone to stay sharp and look out for the warning signs of scams to stop them before they start.
Here’s what to watch out for:
🔍 Unrealistic offers or promises of easy money that are too good to be true
🔍 Pressure tactics: Scammers may rush or threaten you to act immediately.
🔍 Requests for personal info: Be cautious if you’re asked for bank details, passwords, or sensitive information.
🔍 Unusual payment methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
🔍 Unverified contacts: Emails, calls, or messages from unknown or suspicious sources.
How to protect yourself:
✅ Stop and think before sharing personal details or making payments.
✅ Don't click on any links until you know that it is safe.
✅ Verify the source: Contact the organisation directly using official channels.
✅ If something’s not right, it's OK to hang up, walk away, ignore it and move on.
If you wish to report a scam, contact Police on 105 or report it online via 105.police.govt.nz/use-105.
Tactile texture
Welcome texture into your room by using leftover Resene Anaglypta wallpaper to accentuate furniture and décor items. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.