Traditional villa frontage hides hi-tech surprise
How cool is this? It may appear to be a typical villa, but look again...
Behind the picket fence and framed windows, there's a drive-in garage and two-car stacker... and a definite spy film vibe when the house opens up to reveal its secret.
Jon Smith from Matter Architects came up with the idea as a way of preserving the heritage-protected character of their Auckland villa - and it's given us a serious case of garage envy!
Animal Abuser
🚨 URGENT WARNING TO ALL LOST & FOUND / PET REHOMING PAGES 🚨 and people rehoming pets or reporting lost animals.
ZHENYA THORNTON SMITH, Pukekohe
It has come to our attention that a long-term, repeat animal abuser is still actively obtaining animals through Facebook groups.
The type of animal does not matter — birds, livestock, dogs, small pets — anything he can access.
He monitors rehoming pages. He approaches people offering “help.” He presents as reasonable. He will say the right things.
Do not give this person any animals under any circumstances.
If you are an admin of a lost & found page, a community group, or a pet rehoming group:
• Please stay vigilant
• Check profiles carefully
• Share this warning across your networks
Animals have already paid the price for people not knowing.
We cannot rely on authorities to protect them. That leaves us.
If you are unsure about someone requesting an animal, reach out privately before proceeding.
Let’s close the loopholes. Let’s protect the vulnerable.
Do not give this person any animals under any circumstances.
🧩😏 Riddle me this, Neighbours…
I am an odd number. Take away a letter and I become even. What number am I?
Do you think you know the answer?
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Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
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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