58 days ago

Do you pay by credit, or with Paywave?

Libby Reporter from Waikato Local

A small bookshop owner who has been using her own superannuation to keep her business afloat says the Government’s proposed surcharge ban will leave small businesses worse off.

The Government announced in July they would axe surcharge fees for in-store payments by May 2026 following a Commerce Commission decision to reduce interchange fees paid by businesses to accept Visa and Mastercard payments.

Do you pay by credit, or with Paywave? Tell us more in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).

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More messages from your neighbours
8 minutes ago

Will these roadworks affect you?

Libby Totton Reporter from Waikato Times

Don’t expect a quick trip between Cambridge and Tamahere for much of this year, because major roadworks are starting.

Asphalt works on that section of Waikato Expressway will run from March through to late 2026, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) says. Motorists are warned to plan for significant delays.

“Unfortunately the pavement, particularly in the slow lanes, has deteriorated faster than expected,” NZTA’s Roger Brady said.

Will these roadworks affect you? Tell us more in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).

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1 day ago

Share your favourite main crop potato recipe and win a copy of our mag!

William Hansby Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Love potatoes? We will give away free copies of the May 2026 issue to readers whose potato recipes are used in our magazine. To be in the running, make sure you email your family's favourite way to enjoy potatoes: mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, by March 1, 2026.

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21 hours ago

Poll: Would you help your kids out with buying a home?

Libby Totton Reporter from Waikato Times

OPINION: Over the past year, I’ve had the same conversation with many Waikato families again and again.

A child has found a house. The market feels like it’s moving. There’s pressure to act quickly. And before anyone has really had time to think it through, parents are being asked to step in with cash, guarantees, or equity from their own home.

Would you help your kids out with buying a home? Tell us more in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).

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Would you help your kids out with buying a home?
  • 14.3% I already have.
    14.3% Complete
  • 71.4% Yes.
    71.4% Complete
  • 14.3% No
    14.3% Complete
7 votes