Merlin - There when you need him
Merlin is our lovely Samoyed and belongs to Nigel and Christine Edwards (owners of Avenal Park Funeral Home). Merlin is a frequent visitor to Avenal Park Funeral Home, and he welcomes visitors with his wonderful smile and temperament. Merlin is not a therapy dog, but he can bring comfort without saying a word.
Research indicates dogs provide a unique way to cope with loss. The presence of a dog is enough to release “feel good” hormones such as serotonin and oxytocin. They are able to soothe when someone is sad or in mourning. They can also be a welcome distraction.
If during your time of loss, you would like to meet Merlin, please advise your Funeral Director at Avenal Park Funeral Home - Nigel, Donna, Chris or Mel.
Avenal Park Funeral Home (including Merlin) – there when you need them.
If you have any questions, please contact us on 03 218 9021 or call to our office at 75 Fox Street, Invercargill.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
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?
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59.3% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26.2% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.5% ... It is complicated
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
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.
Poll: As a customer, what do you think about automation?
The Press investigates the growing reliance on your unpaid labour.
Automation (or the “unpaid shift”) is often described as efficient ... but it tends to benefit employers more than consumers.
We want to know: What do you think about automation?
Are you for, or against?
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9.7% For. Self-service is less frustrating and convenient.
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43.1% I want to be able to choose.
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47.2% Against. I want to deal with people.
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