3373 days ago

Announcing the winners of the 2016 Kowhai Photography Competition!

A helper from Te Kowhai Community Group

This year’s annual kowhai photo competition was open to digital entries and – in a first for us – winners were voted for by the public on www.neighbourly.co.nz...

The kowhai competition is held annually and has been running for many years now. It’s organised by the local Community Group and is intended to draw people’s attention to the tree from which our village gets its name.

The community group selected the finalists for each of the four categories and winners were voted for by the public over one week in early November.

A prize of $50 is awarded for the winner of each category. But obviously it’s not about the money it’s about being world famous in Te Kowhai and being able to boast having the BEST photograph for the year.

The winners are:
1. Age 12 and under: TJ Ellis
2. Age 13 to 17 years: Sheree Williamson
3. Age 18 years and above: Steven Hood
4. People’s Choice: TJ Ellis

Congratulations to all the winners and many thanks to those who entered. A record number of entries this year and some excellent submissions which we hope to be able to show off in the newsletter over the coming months.

More messages from your neighbours
4 days ago

Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙

One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.

So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?

Image
Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
  • 59.8% Yes, supporting people is important!
    59.8% Complete
  • 25.9% No, individuals should take responsibility
    25.9% Complete
  • 14.4% ... It is complicated
    14.4% Complete
912 votes
5 days ago

A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!

If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?

Image
12 days ago

Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.

Image