We Say, You Say: Northland Tooth Fairy
Do you think the charges laid against the Northland "tooth fairy" are fair?
Northland woman Claire Wihongi-Matene is facing seven charges brought forward by the Ministry of Health due to manufacturing illegal dentures.
The charges include one of claiming to be a health practitioner and another six charges of performing a restricted activity. The Kaikohe woman could potentially face a maximum of a $190,000 fine and is currently awaiting trial.
Wihongi-Matene is defending the charges stating that she only wishes to help those that cannot afford basic dental care in her community.
"It started off with like aunties and uncles and you know the whānau and just helping them out and then, of course, word of mouth - they told their friends and next minute like I just had people coming from all over."
Share your thoughts in the reply section and don't forget to type NFP if you don't want your comment featured in the Conversations section of your local community paper.
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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25.9% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.5% ... 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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