2133 days ago

The Way it Was

Marie from Flaxmere

For weeks I have heard people saying “ I just can’t wait for things to be back to normal.” I remember even saying that more than a few times myself. But as I’ve thought about our current situation I have realised how much I don’t want things to go back to the way they were. Here are a few of my reasons...

1. I hope that the next time a friend grabs me and pulls me in for a hug, I actually take the time to appreciate the gift of their presence and embrace.

2. I hope that when school resumes and you are dropping your kids off, you take the time to thank the staff for the amazing gift that they give to your family.

3. I hope that the next time I’m sitting in a crowded restaurant I take the time to look around at the smiling faces, loud voices and be more appreciative of the gift of community.

4. I hope that when I am at the grocery store that I take a moment to acknowledge the necessities of life and the amazing people who work so hard to keep us supplied.

5. I hope that I never again take for granted the ability to hop in the car and visit a friend, go to the beach, a restaurant or a movie, etc.

So, truth is, I don’t want things to return to the way they once were. I hope and pray that we take the lessons and challenges of the past few weeks and create a new normal.

My goal is to appreciate more, love harder, and truly appreciate the daily abundance of blessings that were so easily overlooked just a few weeks ago. If someone tells you they love you, take it to heart❤

More messages from your neighbours
5 days ago

Poll: 🤖 What skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Reserve Bank has shared some pretty blunt advice: there’s no such thing as a “safe” job anymore 🛟😑

Robots are stepping into repetitive roles in factories, plants and warehouses. AI is taking care of the admin tasks that once filled many mid-level office jobs.

We want to know: As the world evolves, what skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?

Want to read more? The Press has you covered!

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🤖 What skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
  • 52.7% Human-centred experience and communication
    52.7% Complete
  • 14.6% Critical thinking
    14.6% Complete
  • 30% Resilience and adaptability
    30% Complete
  • 2.7% Other - I will share below!
    2.7% Complete
554 votes
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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27 days ago

Zumba with Mamacita 2026

Yvonne from Mayfair

CLASSES RESTART TUESDAY FEBUARY 3rd
6.15pm
4 classes in February..
First time free.. $5 a class..
Kick start your fitness goals with Mamacita weekly happy hour of movement, smiles and fun.
Come and give a try..
Harriers Club Hall
803 Sylvan Road Hastings

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