Waitaki District, Oamaru

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183 days ago

Spice up your winter

Yvette Williams Retirement Village

When it’s cold outside, there's nothing quite like being inside the cosy warmth of a kitchen infused with the aroma of spices. But did you know that beyond their aromatic allure, these spices harbour a treasure trove of health benefits?

From the fiery kick of chilli to the sweet warmth of… View more
When it’s cold outside, there's nothing quite like being inside the cosy warmth of a kitchen infused with the aroma of spices. But did you know that beyond their aromatic allure, these spices harbour a treasure trove of health benefits?

From the fiery kick of chilli to the sweet warmth of cinnamon, each spice brings not only flavour but also a host of nutrients and healing properties to our winter dishes. So, whether you're sipping on mulled wine, indulging in gingerbread, or savouring a hearty stew, every bite promises to not just please your palate but also contribute to your overall wellbeing.

Click read more for the full story.

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183 days ago

Berry trellis

The Team from Resene ColorShop Oamaru

Give your berries room to grow and plenty of airflow with this helpful trellis finished in Resene Kwila Timber Stain. Keeping the canes off the ground means berries stay healthy and are easy to reach when ready to pick.

Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.

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187 days ago

Lottery funding sows seeds of sustainability in Waitaki garden

NZ Lotto

Waitaki Community Gardens sowing the seeds of community and sustainability

The Waitaki Community Gardens is at the heart of the small community of around 23,000 people, with a mission to share the joys of sustainable gardening with locals and touring visitors.

Supported by lottery funding … View more
Waitaki Community Gardens sowing the seeds of community and sustainability

The Waitaki Community Gardens is at the heart of the small community of around 23,000 people, with a mission to share the joys of sustainable gardening with locals and touring visitors.

Supported by lottery funding from Te Puna Tahua Lottery Grants Board, the community garden hosts popular events and workshops throughout the year for those eager to learn about growing their own produce and reducing their environmental impact.

From humble beginnings over a decade ago, the garden has grown into a thriving hub of activity that attracts volunteers and students of all ages and backgrounds to work side by side, sharing knowledge and experiences and growing a sense of community alongside their lettuce and tomatoes.

Central to the garden's offerings is the ‘Seed to Table’ course - a hands-on permaculture workshop series designed to equip budding green-thumbs with essential skills for cultivating organic and productive gardens.
The garden not only brings the community together but also offers a refreshing antidote to today’s fast-paced, digital world.

With 100% of Lotto New Zealand profits being returned to funding Local Grants, every time you play a Lotto New Zealand game, you’re a Kiwi helping initiatives like the Waitaki Community Gardens foster a healthy, sustainable, and connected community. 

Read more Local Grant recipient stories.
Find out more

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187 days ago

Check the list!

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

We've pulled four names this week of members across the country. The winners of the $100 Mitre10 cards are:

Cynthia Chozas from Botany Downs

Mabel Dawson from Stratford

Michael Pascoe from Amberley

View more
We've pulled four names this week of members across the country. The winners of the $100 Mitre10 cards are:

Cynthia Chozas from Botany Downs

Mabel Dawson from Stratford

Michael Pascoe from Amberley

Sarah Gebhard from Nelson

Winners can get in touch here or by emailing helpdesk@neighbourly.co.nz before 25th June.

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187 days ago

We're looking for Nice Neighbours

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Each week, nominations on Neighbourly get turned into a Stuff story and we are always on the lookout for amazing neighbours who deserve to be recognised.

It could be someone who helped you when you were in a tight spot, a local who goes above and beyond for the community or just a neighbour who … View more
Each week, nominations on Neighbourly get turned into a Stuff story and we are always on the lookout for amazing neighbours who deserve to be recognised.

It could be someone who helped you when you were in a tight spot, a local who goes above and beyond for the community or just a neighbour who checks in on you.

Nominate your 'Nice Neighbour' by clicking here.

187 days ago

Watch out for seals

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

DOC is asking public to be on the lookout for juvenile pinnipeds (adventurous fur seals, sea lions and seals) that may start appearing in unusual locations, a period often referred to as ‘seal silly season’.

"From June – September we start to see young seals begin to explore their … View more
DOC is asking public to be on the lookout for juvenile pinnipeds (adventurous fur seals, sea lions and seals) that may start appearing in unusual locations, a period often referred to as ‘seal silly season’.

"From June – September we start to see young seals begin to explore their environment, often showing up in unexpected places," says DOC Marine Science Advisor Dr Jody Weir.

Kekeno, or New Zealand fur seals, are marine mammals that spend considerable time on land, typically resting but occasionally exploring. Although they are usually found on rocky shores, their natural curiosity sometimes leads them several kilometres inland.

"Young seals, still dependent on their mother’s milk, tend to venture further afield during this period. It's common to find them on roads, in backyards, or even on living room sofas," explains Dr Weir.

This year has been particularly challenging for New Zealand's fur seals, with more than 1,000 deaths due to starvation along the Kaikōura coast.

"Although we can’t solve the broader issues of climate change and food scarcity overnight, we can all contribute to keeping these fascinating animals safe," Dr Weir says.

Last year, seals were spotted in unexpected places, such as the car park of KFC in Papakura and Bunnings in Whangarei. In these instances, DOC intervened to relocate the seals safely back to the water.

"Most seals people encounter are healthy, and behaviours like regurgitating, sneezing, coughing, or crying are normal.

“People should enjoy observing them from a distance and contact DOC only if they are in immediate danger, such as being on a road, severely injured, or tangled in debris,” says Dr Weir.

If you see a seal that is severely injured, being harassed, or in danger, please call 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).

What you need to know:
- Be aware that seals may be on roads.
- Never touch, handle, or feed a seal as they can be aggressive if threatened. It is also a breach of the Marine Mammals Protection Act.
- Maintain a distance of at least 20 meters from kekeno if possible and avoid getting between the seal and the sea.
- Give seals space if encountered on or near a beach.
- Always keep dogs on a leash and away from seals.
- Ensure small children are at a safe distance and under control when watching seals.

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188 days ago

Last chance for tickets!

Heart Foundation Lotteries

Don’t miss out! For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in beautiful Papamoa, worth just over $1.1 million.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by … View more
Don’t miss out! For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in beautiful Papamoa, worth just over $1.1 million.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by its new owners.

Make this property your permanent residence, a holiday home, rent it or even sell it! Get your tickets today at heartlottery.org.nz.
Find out more

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190 days ago

Poppa's pulled pork

Yvette Williams Retirement Village

As the weather cools and cosy evenings become the norm, there’s nothing better than cranking up the heat and treating yourself to heartwarming comfort food. If you're craving a winter recipe that'll warm you from the inside out, look no further than Brent's irresistible slow-cooked… View moreAs the weather cools and cosy evenings become the norm, there’s nothing better than cranking up the heat and treating yourself to heartwarming comfort food. If you're craving a winter recipe that'll warm you from the inside out, look no further than Brent's irresistible slow-cooked pulled pork. Its smoky, aromatic scent often wafts from Brent’s apartment at Ryman’s Kevin Hickman Village, tempting taste buds and stirring appetites. With its tender meat and velvety sauce, this dish is every bit as delicious as it sounds – you’ll be reaching for seconds, thirds, and maybe even fourths!

Click read more for the full recipe.

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195 days ago

Poll: Are swear words no longer?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

In 2023, Apple amended its autocorrect function to allow Iphone users to freely use their intended word without mentioning 'ducks'. Is this a sign of the times? Are swear words no longer taboo in our communities or workplaces?

Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to… View more
In 2023, Apple amended its autocorrect function to allow Iphone users to freely use their intended word without mentioning 'ducks'. Is this a sign of the times? Are swear words no longer taboo in our communities or workplaces?

Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to be excluded from the Conversations column of your local paper.

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Are swear words no longer?
  • 20.8% Yes - swear words don't phase me
    20.8% Complete
  • 48.5% No - it's still inappropriate to swear
    48.5% Complete
  • 30% It's depends on the word
    30% Complete
  • 0.8% Other - I'll share below!
    0.8% Complete
2899 votes
190 days ago

Sunshine state of mind

The Team from Resene ColorShop Oamaru

Create a mood-enhancing workspace at home with a fresh and uplifting colour palette with Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen and Resene Lustacryl.

Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.

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191 days ago

Make your family aware: Scam posing as officers returns

The Team from New Zealand Police

A phone scam is re-emerging with cold calling swindlers claiming to be Police officers.

New Zealand Police are advising the public to be vigilant, after a handful of reports have been made in recent days. Unfortunately, at least two elderly Aucklanders have been conned out of tens of thousands … View more
A phone scam is re-emerging with cold calling swindlers claiming to be Police officers.

New Zealand Police are advising the public to be vigilant, after a handful of reports have been made in recent days. Unfortunately, at least two elderly Aucklanders have been conned out of tens of thousands of dollars.

Waitematā CIB’s Detective Senior Sergeant Ryan Bunting says scammers are cold calling, mainly on landlines, and claim to be a Police officer.“They will also provide a fake ID or badge number to make their call seem legitimate,” he says.“This person will carry on and provide a reason for their call: either they are investigating fake bank notes, or that your credit card has been cloned.

“As part of this scam, they will ask you to withdraw money from a nearby bank to be collected or ask you to provide further financial or banking information to aid their investigation.”

Be aware: this is a scam call.

Police are investigating two reports this week, in south Auckland and the North Shore, where two people have fallen victim to the scam. “Both victims withdrew cash from a bank and handed this over to someone who arrived at their door to collect it under the fake cover story,” Detective Senior Sergeant Bunting says.“These victims have had their good-will and trust trodden on by these scammers.”

Investigation staff have ensured there is support available for the victims. Detective Senior Sergeant Bunting says: “Scammers have no ethics whatsoever and will take any opportunity to try and con you.“These scams take many forms, and the offenders trick people under a variety of guises or storylines.”

There are occasions where legitimate Police officers will contact people as part of their duties, he says.

Police are asking the community to be aware and take the opportunity to spread the word amongst friends and family members. “We are particularly keen to ensure elder family members are aware of what is happening,” Detective Senior Sergeant Bunting says. “If anyone receives a call of this nature, hang up.

“If you have had the unfortunate position of being a victim to this scam and have not reported this, we encourage you to report this to Police.”

Please remember:
- Police will never call to ask you for bank details, pin numbers or passwords
- Police do not offer prize money
- Police will not ask you to go to a bank to withdraw money
- If you receive a call out of the blue of a similar nature: challenge the caller to identify themselves, ask for their details.
- Hang up, contact 105 to verify the ID and request the officer to contact you
- If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

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194 days ago

This week's prize winners

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

We've pulled four names this week of members across the country. The winners of the $100 Prezzy® cards are:

Sheena Bond from Napier

Ralph Dixon from Rotorua

Katie Johnston from Invercargill

View more
We've pulled four names this week of members across the country. The winners of the $100 Prezzy® cards are:

Sheena Bond from Napier

Ralph Dixon from Rotorua

Katie Johnston from Invercargill

Samantha Sanderson from Beckenham

Winners can get in touch here or by emailing helpdesk@neighbourly.co.nz before 18th June.

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194 days ago

Paint it Green with Resene this June and help the New Zealand Trees That Count programme!

Resene

Simply visit your local Resene owned ColorShop, choose your favourite green testpots and for each one you buy Resene will donate $1 to the New Zealand Trees That Count programme.

Offer applies to all Resene green 60 mL testpots (excludes metallic and wood stains) purchased by retail customers … View more
Simply visit your local Resene owned ColorShop, choose your favourite green testpots and for each one you buy Resene will donate $1 to the New Zealand Trees That Count programme.

Offer applies to all Resene green 60 mL testpots (excludes metallic and wood stains) purchased by retail customers between 1-30 June 2024 at Resene owned ColorShops.

Trees That Count are an environmental charity on a mission to plant millions more native trees throughout New Zealand. Trees That Count runs the country’s only marketplace which provides a place for anyone to fund or gift native trees. This support is matched with planters throughout the country who are restoring, and growing, precious wildlife corridors or pockets of native forest, turning small projects into mighty ones.

To find your nearest Resene ColorShop, click here.

For more information on Trees That Count, visit us.
Find out more

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202 days ago

NBLY Conversations: What is the etiquette for bin day?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

We think there are unspoken rules for bin day, but are we adhering to the same ones?

Do you think twice about dragging your bin to the pavement in the early hours? Do you mind if neighbours put excess rubbish in your bin? Share your bin day etiquette and let's compare notes!

Type … View more
We think there are unspoken rules for bin day, but are we adhering to the same ones?

Do you think twice about dragging your bin to the pavement in the early hours? Do you mind if neighbours put excess rubbish in your bin? Share your bin day etiquette and let's compare notes!

Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to be excluded from the Conversations column of your local paper.

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196 days ago

As voted by you New Zealand

The Team from Ryman Healthcare

Big news in our community!

Ryman has been voted New Zealand’s Most Trusted Brand in Aged Care & Retirement Villages for the 10th time! So we want to say Thank You Aotearoa, for your continued trust and support. Together, we’ll continue building vibrant communities where everyone can … View more
Big news in our community!

Ryman has been voted New Zealand’s Most Trusted Brand in Aged Care & Retirement Villages for the 10th time! So we want to say Thank You Aotearoa, for your continued trust and support. Together, we’ll continue building vibrant communities where everyone can thrive.

Here’s to 10 more years of trust and excellence!

Click read more for more information.
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