Painters progress
Painting buildings has been through a lot of changes over the years.
When I was doing my apprenticeship in the '80s water based paint systems were just coming in. Most of what we used were the oil based systems (thinned with turpentine). It would be lunchtime and the fumes from painting behind that toilet door at the Regent hotel in Auckland would make my nose run! I don't know how, but I managed to complete the 4 years training without too much brain damage!
Then of course before the 1960's, paint was often lead based, a toxic chemical that causes serious health issues. Thankfully, lead in paint was banned, but some home owners today still discover this dangerous chemical in the original coating on their property. Painters now have to follow strict safety rules to prepare and repaint these homes without getting sick.
I'm grateful for the changes that aim to value and protect the humble painter!
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
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.
Tributes flow for Paul Galletta
Paul Galletta, “a real Waikato guy”, was farewelled by police and the rugby community at FMG Stadium on Wednesday.
A crowd of nearly 1500 gathered to celebrate the life of Galletta, who died at the age of 62 on November 23.