Opotiki District, Opotiki

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1014 days ago

An interior designer shares the top 5 golden rules for bedroom design

Robert Anderson from Curtain Clean at Whakatane ChemDry

Bedrooms equal sleep. It follows that they should be a place of tranquility, somewhere to calm yourself after a day of sensory overload. Except it’s not always so cut and dried, particularly because many of us also use our bedroom as a refuge and place to be alone, a personal space in which to … View moreBedrooms equal sleep. It follows that they should be a place of tranquility, somewhere to calm yourself after a day of sensory overload. Except it’s not always so cut and dried, particularly because many of us also use our bedroom as a refuge and place to be alone, a personal space in which to watch Netflix or even a study for an upcoming exam. So, follow your heart and create a bedroom that brings your dreams alive in the daytime as well as at night.
We would just say, pay attention to the mattress and the bed. Make sure they’re comfortable and, because they will undoubtedly be the focus of the room, choose your headboard and bedding with care. You will also need a degree of functionality about the room, so ensure that the wardrobe space is sufficient for your needs, that the curtains or blinds provide as much darkness as you need to sleep and that your lighting is suitably ambient but still good enough to allow you to read a book without eye strain.

1. Bedheads are essential
Whether you’re designing a child’s room or main bedroom, a feature bedhead is non-negotiable. It not only helps anchor the bed, but also makes the room feel complete. Think round, oblong, wall-to-wall, velvet, rattan, linen, custom-made timber – the options are endless. With lots of companies now making custom bedheads in New Zealand there are options to suit every room and taste. In a child’s room you can even use paint to create a bedhead – paint a shape on the wall behind the bed or paint the lower half of the room a different colour from the upper half.

2. Focus on lighting
Lighting is one of the most important accessories in any home and an easy way to create the wow factor – think of it like jewellery for a room. In bedrooms, pendant lights are ideal if the ceilings are high enough. In the main bedroom a pendant should be positioned above the foot of the bed, in the centre, so it’s out of the way of the room’s open space. Bedside lights can be used to create ambience at night. If you’re renovating or building, consider hanging a pendant or positioning a wall light above each bedside table. The light switch should line up vertically with the lights and sit 700mm from the floor so it’s higher than all bedside tables. Power points should also align with the lights, sitting just above the skirting board.

3. Always consider proportion
For a bedroom to work you need to think about proportion. Balance is created when all aspects of a room are in proportion with one another, so if your bed looks too big or your bedside tables look too small, they probably are. When you’re laying out your room, check the size of the bed – draw it on the wall or floor if you can. If your child’s bedroom is big, don’t push the single bed right into the corner. Leaving even a small amount of space (200mm) between the bed and an adjacent wall will allow you to make the bed more easily, as well as helping the room look in proportion, as your eye can drop behind the bed rather than hitting the wall and running up.

Keep reading: www.curtainclean.co.nz...

1015 days ago

Work with Apata and be in to win $1000 in weekly prizes!

Apata

Work’s way more fun when you’re winning, and that’s why Apata has heaps of rewards and sweet giveaways for 2022 March to June seasonal staff!

You can also choose to work the days and hours that suit you best. There’s also BP cards and New World vouchers on offer just for signing up or … View more
Work’s way more fun when you’re winning, and that’s why Apata has heaps of rewards and sweet giveaways for 2022 March to June seasonal staff!

You can also choose to work the days and hours that suit you best. There’s also BP cards and New World vouchers on offer just for signing up or referring a friend. *T&C’s apply
Find out more

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1015 days ago

Seniors Newsletter

Office for Seniors

Our February Seniors newsletter is out now. In this issue we announce our Age friendly fund successful recipients, shine a light on the those nominated for the New Years Honours for Services to Seniors and much more. Check it out here: mailchi.mp...

1015 days ago

Poll: You be the (photographic) judge!

Ashleigh from Neighbourly.co.nz

Kia ora Aotearoa. Stuff has just finished their annual Summer Snaps competition and we’re thrilled to announce that you'll be the judge of the People and Communities photograph category.

The entries in this category have been shortlisted and we now have five brilliantly captured … View more
Kia ora Aotearoa. Stuff has just finished their annual Summer Snaps competition and we’re thrilled to announce that you'll be the judge of the People and Communities photograph category.

The entries in this category have been shortlisted and we now have five brilliantly captured photographs to battle it out. There's a camera up for grabs for our talented photographers, and it's up to you to choose who takes the crown...and the Canon EOS!

Cast your vote in the poll below before 12pm, 11 February.

You be the (photographic) judge!
  • 53.5% Finalist 1: Full Moon
    53.5% Complete
  • 14.8% Finalist 2: Girl's Camp
    14.8% Complete
  • 11.4% Finalist 3: First Ride in a Steam Train
    11.4% Complete
  • 16.2% Finalist 4: Grandparents at Sunset
    16.2% Complete
  • 1.9% Finalist 5: Brass Band
    1.9% Complete
  • 2.1% Finalist 6: Street Walk
    2.1% Complete
1268 votes
1016 days ago

Still enrolling for 2022!

Te Whare Wananga o Awanuiarangi

2022 Courses

Rukuhia te mātauranga – pursue knowledge with courses at Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi. Choose from a wide variety of subjects and programmes, ranging from certificates and undergraduate degrees to Master and Doctorate level. With subjects including, teaching, nursing, … View more
2022 Courses

Rukuhia te mātauranga – pursue knowledge with courses at Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi. Choose from a wide variety of subjects and programmes, ranging from certificates and undergraduate degrees to Master and Doctorate level. With subjects including, teaching, nursing, sciences, humanities, mātauranga Māori, indigenous studies, marae centred learning and much more!

With delivery available at multiple sites and some with online delivery we invite you to find out more. It isn’t too late to enrol! Contact us now
Find out more

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1017 days ago

Hot dry summer raised wildfire risk awareness

Climate Insights

Peri-urban areas can be described as the landscape interface between town and country or the rural-urban transition zone where urban and rural areas mix.

The probability of wildfire is driven by the amount and dryness of fuel, ambient weather and ignitions. Dry weather exacerbates wildfire risk… View more
Peri-urban areas can be described as the landscape interface between town and country or the rural-urban transition zone where urban and rural areas mix.

The probability of wildfire is driven by the amount and dryness of fuel, ambient weather and ignitions. Dry weather exacerbates wildfire risk in this zone and could significantly impact your property! With one of New Zealand’s hottest and driest summers, discover your property’s fire risk and what you can do to reduce it.

We can produce personalised reports for any house on the planet!

Click here to get your property report: https://property-climate-risk-report.co.nz/
Know more

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1018 days ago

Treat yourself or someone you care about this Valentines Day

Stuff

Purchase a six month subscription to the Sunday Star-Times for $102 and get a free $100 Interflora e-voucher. Terms and conditions apply. Subscribe Now

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1020 days ago

Style trends you need to know about for 2022

Robert Anderson from Curtain Clean at Whakatane ChemDry

The 22 interior trends we’ll be seeing everywhere this year

1. Taste of Morocco
Warm saturated colour palettes, oodles of texture and intricate detailing are inspirations drawn from the North African nation. Rebecca Jones, design manager for Adairs, says to look out for Moroccan textiles and … View more
The 22 interior trends we’ll be seeing everywhere this year

1. Taste of Morocco
Warm saturated colour palettes, oodles of texture and intricate detailing are inspirations drawn from the North African nation. Rebecca Jones, design manager for Adairs, says to look out for Moroccan textiles and textural embroidery. Team them with decorative tiling, intricate lantern pendants and bright clashing colours to immerse yourself in this beautifully opulent style.

2. Cuddle in
“Plump styled interiors are squishy, cuddly and comforting,” says Laura Heynike, director of Pocketspace Interiors. Think round, curvy and wavy shapes with soft and organic materials in hues of mellow caramel, raspberry and chocolate. Davina Harper, Dulux colour specialist agrees, “Interiors are rich and sensual with essential depth. A decadent look reflects our mood since the pandemic with hyper-feminine aspects in curves and sumptuous materials.”

3. Finger tiles
You might know them by their other name; Kit Kat tiles. This style of tile, slim and petite, adds colour and texture to a space without overpowering it. Prepare to see many more of these on kitchen splashbacks or in the bathroom.

4. Home office
“Work from home is here to stay, in some way, shape or form,” says Dulux’s Davina Harper. So, expect to see the WFH office go from a small desk squished awkwardly in the corner of the living room, to a dedicated workspace with colour, and style to ensure the right mood and ambience for a proper nine-to-five slog.

Keep reading: www.curtainclean.co.nz...

1020 days ago

Bat roosting box

The Team from Resene ColorShop Whakatane

This easy DIY project finished in Resene Waterborne Woodsman Pickled Bluewood provides a roosting and resting site for a rare and threatened native bat.

Find out how to create your own.

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1020 days ago

Settle. Your nerves.

EVES Real Estate

With over 50 years of experience, we’ll soon have you sold. We’ve over 175 salespeople throughout our regions, so you can be sure we’ve got the local knowledge and expertise to make selling your property a smooth and enjoyable process. Exceptional results from exceptional people. Find out more

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1021 days ago

Waitangi Day Super Bed Sale!

Beds 4 U

Aotearoa!

Our Waitangi Day Super Bed Sale is now on! Celebrate Waitangi Day with our best deals on beds, mattresses, pillows, and all things sleep. Plus get FREE LOCAL DELIVERY* 😍 Hurry, limited-time offer!

👉 Shop online or at your nearest Beds4U store!

✅ 60 Night's Comfort … View more
Aotearoa!

Our Waitangi Day Super Bed Sale is now on! Celebrate Waitangi Day with our best deals on beds, mattresses, pillows, and all things sleep. Plus get FREE LOCAL DELIVERY* 😍 Hurry, limited-time offer!

👉 Shop online or at your nearest Beds4U store!

✅ 60 Night's Comfort Guarantee
✅ 100% NZ Owned and Operated Business
✅ 17 Bed retail stores across North Island

We have the beds for you @ Beds4U...
Your Local Sleep Experts

*Apply Code (WAITANGIDAY) to your cart for Free Shipping on online orders above $899 and only valid for shipping rates under $99. While stocks last.
Shop now

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1021 days ago

Tips for a Fresher Looking Natural Fibre Rug

Robert Anderson from Curtain Clean at Whakatane ChemDry

1) Clean your rug on a regular basis. This may seem like an obvious thing to state, but you should know that it is much easier for dirt particles to become entangled in natural fibre carpeting than it is with their synthetic counterparts. To this end, make sure to regularly vacuum your rug using … View more1) Clean your rug on a regular basis. This may seem like an obvious thing to state, but you should know that it is much easier for dirt particles to become entangled in natural fibre carpeting than it is with their synthetic counterparts. To this end, make sure to regularly vacuum your rug using the appropriate upholstery attachment. Other methods you can try is shaking the rug to remove debris, or hanging it up outside and dusting it with a tennis racket, big stick, etc.

2) Use a damp towel to remedy curled rug corners. If you have been using your natural carpeting as an area rug, especially in high traffic areas, you will sooner or later notice that its corners have started to curl. To fix this, simply dampen the curled area with an evenly spread damp towel, place some weights on top, and leave it overnight. Keep in mind that you may have to repeat this process a few more times, depending on how long your rug had its corners curled.

3) Cut sprouting fibres using shears. Since most natural fibre rugs are braided and sewn by hand, they are very prone to sprouting. This goes double for jute, which has shorter fibres. To remedy this, simply use shears to clip down the fibres that have already stuck out from the rug surface. The good news is that, with time, the fibres will “settle in” and you will no longer have to use your scissors as much.

4) Always contact a manufacturer for advice on cleaning specific stains. If you cannot identify the stain on your rug, or it needs a more thorough cleaning overall, we highly encourage you to seek out the original manufacturer for specific cleaning recommendations, since most companies treat the fibres of their natural products differently.

Keep reading: www.curtainclean.co.nz...

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1022 days ago

Is Hokitika the friendliest town in NZ?

Lorna Thornber Reporter from Stuff Travel

Hi everyone,
Hokitika has been named the most welcoming town in NZ in Booking.com's 10th annual Traveller Review Awards.
Would be keen to hear from those who live there or who have visited whether they think the town really is exceptionally friendly. What makes it a welcoming place, or … View more
Hi everyone,
Hokitika has been named the most welcoming town in NZ in Booking.com's 10th annual Traveller Review Awards.
Would be keen to hear from those who live there or who have visited whether they think the town really is exceptionally friendly. What makes it a welcoming place, or otherwise? Were there any cafes, restaurants, shops or other places you received a particularly warm welcome?
Lake Tekapo and Oamaru came in second and third place respectively, followed by Cambridge, Picton, Invercargill, Martinborough, Kerikeri and Palmerston North. Would also love to hear from you if you have thoughts on these places. Please include 'NFP' (not for publication) in your comment if you don't want it to appear in a travel article.
Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts?

1022 days ago

Be a changemaker – study to be an ECE teacher.

BTI

Are you called to working with young tamariki? Are you currently working in early childcare and thinking
about becoming fully qualified?

Now is the time to be a changemaker at Bethlehem Tertiary Institute. Our new field-based ECE programme offers you the chance to train as a professional … View more
Are you called to working with young tamariki? Are you currently working in early childcare and thinking
about becoming fully qualified?

Now is the time to be a changemaker at Bethlehem Tertiary Institute. Our new field-based ECE programme offers you the chance to train as a professional teacher while working at a centre.

At BTI you get a sense of belonging,” says Courtney Stead, ECE student teacher at BTI.

BTI Teacher training is based on Christian values and creative, person-centred learning, with onsite,
field-based and distance learning options. Apply online at www.bti.ac.nz
Find out more

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1023 days ago

Welcome to the year of the Tiger!

The Team from NZ Compare

The Tiger represents bravery and strength, so this Lunar New Year, we’d like to offer you the chance to WIN 1 of 3 $50 Prezzy Cards, to spend at your local café, takeaway or restaurant!

Our locals have been doing it tough but remaining resilient, brave and strong through the last year. … View more
The Tiger represents bravery and strength, so this Lunar New Year, we’d like to offer you the chance to WIN 1 of 3 $50 Prezzy Cards, to spend at your local café, takeaway or restaurant!

Our locals have been doing it tough but remaining resilient, brave and strong through the last year. Let's go show them some love Neighbours!

Click 'read more' below to head over to the NZ Compare Facebook page and leave a comment on our Lunar Post telling us what awesome local you'd support if you won.

We hope this Chinese New Year will be filled with happiness, prosperity, and many precious moments with your loved ones.

Entries close midnight 8th February 2022.

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