Kayakers prove useful for search and rescue
Two fictional missing kayakers had local first responders out in force at Waimarama Beach on Sunday.
The kayakers were at the centre of a joint training exercise for Police, Coastguard and the Hawke’s Bay Surf Life Saving (SLS) Emergency Call-out squad.
Constable Andrew Walker said the annual training exercise gives our teams the opportunity to improve and practice our operating procedures and gives new crew members a chance to work on their skills in a realistic emergency situation.
An incident management team made up of Police Search and Rescue, Coastguard and SLS members ran the search.
A further 25 personnel from the SLS Emergency Call-out squad and Coastguard were on the water around Waimarama in five inflatable rescue boats and the Coastguard rigid hull inflatable Celia Knowles.
Constable Walker said it was the perfect time to remind people of the basic rules they should follow.
- Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to be home.
- Check the marine weather forecast
- Take two waterproof ways to call for help
- Wear your lifejacket
- Avoid alcohol
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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4.6% Second half of November
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43.6% 1st December
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17.8% A week before Christmas
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33% Whenever you wish
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1.1% Other - I'll share below
Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
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83% Yes
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14.5% No
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2.5% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.