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 we ditch daylight saving? 🕰️
First introduced in New Zealand in 1927 with the passing of the Summer Time Act, it's what we know as 'Daylight Saving' and this year it ends on the first Sunday in April.
While we do get to sleep in this time around, some people would like to scrap the clock tinkering for good.
And why? Some evidence suggests the time changes are bad for our health as they mess with sleep patterns leading to short-term fatigue and affecting mood. Meanwhile the hour change is frustrating for farmers and a nightmare for getting the littlies to sleep. But what's your take?
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40.5% Yes - get rid of the clock changes
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57.6% No, I enjoy it
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1.9% Other - I'll share below
Police forced to name Netflix as platform for Tom Phillips documentary
Police have confirmed Netflix will screen a reality-style documentary on fugitive Tom Phillips, after initially refusing to name the platform.
Phillips was shot dead on Te Anga Rd, west of Waitomo on September 8, after a near four-year manhunt for Phillips and his three children.
Alan and Hazel Kerr share Senior New Zealander of the Year Award 2026
Dr Alan and Hazel Kerr describe themselves as ‘just ordinary old Kiwis’, despite being named as the 2026 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealanders of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
The amazing couple prompted a standing ovation at a star-studded Auckland event which recognised their tireless efforts, with Alan travelling to and from Gaza and the West Bank 40 times to help children over 20 years, and Hazel travelling 20 times.
Click read more to find out more.
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