2846 days ago

Meet our new reporter, James Baker

Julie Kaio Reporter from Franklin County News

Coming from Whanganui I wasn't used to the big smoke. So when my y partner and I moved to Auckland for her career it was quite a shift. Although Auckland has much to offer I could never get used to the traffic jams and the big city living. That is why I'm stoked to be working here in Pukekohe.
I spent much of my 20s moving from job-to-job. I worked as a Defense Force engineer, a bird shooter and a truck driver before completing my Diploma of Journalism at Whitireia polytechnic in 2016.
I met my partner while traveling through Cambodia. During our time together I raved about how beautiful New Zealand. I'm looking forward to getting to know the local communities and tell their stories.
James :)

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More messages from your neighbours
22 days ago

Poll: As a customer, what do you think about automation?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

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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As a customer, what do you think about automation?
  • 9.5% For. Self-service is less frustrating and convenient.
    9.5% Complete
  • 43.4% I want to be able to choose.
    43.4% Complete
  • 47.1% Against. I want to deal with people.
    47.1% Complete
2518 votes
5 days ago

Bloom Pukekohe Op Shop

Janet Wallington from Bloom Pukekohe Op Shop

CLOSED WAITANGI DAY 📜 FRIDAY 6th FEBRUARY!
Just a reminder that Friday 6th February is Waitangi Day and we will therefore be closed, as we join the rest of the country in marking the anniversary of the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
We shop will be open as usual on Saturday and Sunday 9:30am - 2:30pm.

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6 days ago

Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

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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