From the editor
The team at Franklin County News has a lot of time for Sam Muir-James, who is featured on the front page of today's paper.
We've had a bit to do with Sam, a talented swimmer from Otaua who has autism, and we reckon he's pretty awesome.
His athletic achievements in the pool are so impressive - but it's his cool personality that has endeared him to us.
"He's just so so humble, " our reporters say - and a pleasure to deal with it.
It's people like Sam that make our jobs so rewarding.
What a privilege it is - to be able to report on people in our community punching above their weight - to share their stories with our audience and acknowledge publicly that what they are doing is pretty neat.
Good luck Sam, with your Cook Strait swim early next year.
The crew at Franklin County News are sure you'll nail it.
To donate to Sam's journey visit givealittle.co.nz/cause/ sammuirjames85
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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59.6% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.4% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
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?
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.
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