Rhonda Hira making a return to competitive softball
One of New Zealand's greatest ever players is returning to the softball diamond at 55.
Rhonda Hira will lace up her cleats and play in this weekend's Fastball 45 tournament in Christchurch, as a pick-up player for the Kaiapoi Queens.
Hira, who is studying to become a personal trainer, said she was "actually quite motivated'' to help the younger Kaiapoi players and, after training with her teammates, is confident she won't let them, or herself, down.
Hira played for Hutt Valley and at five world championships. She is not the only veteran on a softball roster.
Current White Sox assistant-coach Melisa Tupuivao (nee Upu), another Sydney Olympian, will mark her 46th birthday as player-coach of the Hutt Valley Kotuku Raiders at the central qualifying tournament on December 4-6.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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76.6% Yes
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22.1% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
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.
Begonia house to be demolished at botanic gardens
It's outrageous that the Wellington City Council are going to demolish the Begonia house at the Botanic gardens. This is an asset. One would have thought the green faction of the council would have supported fixing it. It's strange no one has questioned the price required to fix it. Cycle ways more important than begonia house i think not