Is your paddling pool legal?
Hi neighbours,
Many people setting up paddling pools for their children this summer will be breaking the law - are you one of them?
Any pool, fixed or portable, deeper than 400mm is now subject to safety provisions under the Building Act, meaning there a quite a few rules you probably aren't even aware of.
For example, do you have a 1.2-metre fixed childproof fence with a self-closing gate opening outwards?
What are your thoughts on paddling pool safety? If faced with an inspection, would your pool set-up pass? Do you think all these rules are essential? What are your tips for setting up a paddling pool safely?
To read more about how to keep your kids safe in and around pools, click here.
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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.
Toxic algae
We've had early reports of toxic algae in some of our awa/rivers. Unfortunately, dogs like to seek out the algae and eat it, causing serious harm.
We monitor water quality at recreation sites over summer for toxic algae, however, site assessments are based on the risk to human health. It is not always possible to observe small amounts of toxic algae that could still be dangerous for dogs.
If you’re ever in doubt about the water quality, then keep your dog on a leash and away from the water’s edge.
It's vital to know what to look for to keep your dogs safe 👉 www.ecan.govt.nz...
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.