CAUTION ADVISED – Toxic algae
CAUTION ADVISED – testing has shown an increase in toxic algae and slightly elevated E. coli levels at:
– Ōtaki River near the Old State Highway 1 bridge
– Waikanae River at Jim Cooke Park.
Toxic algae can make people sick and can be fatal to dogs. These brown or black velvety mats grow on rocks in the riverbeds or come loose and wash up on riverbanks. Dogs love the musty smell and taste of toxic algae, so please keep them on leads away from the water and never let them scavenge at the river’s edge. If you think your dog has swallowed toxic algae, take them to the nearest vet immediately.
Always avoid swimming for at least 2-3 days after heavy or prolonged rain, which can cause an increase of contaminants in the water. If you’re feeling unwell after swimming at these sites, please see your doctor or ring Healthline 0800 611 116.
Check the LAWA website - lawa.org.nz/swim for the most up-to-date water quality results at your favourite swim spot.
Quote for the Day
"Economic forecasters fall into two groups: those who don't know - and those who don't know they don't know."
Kenneth Galbraith - eminent Canadian economist and diplomat
Cheers Mike
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.
Poll: 🤖 What skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
The Reserve Bank has shared some pretty blunt advice: there’s no such thing as a “safe” job anymore 🛟😑
Robots are stepping into repetitive roles in factories, plants and warehouses. AI is taking care of the admin tasks that once filled many mid-level office jobs.
We want to know: As the world evolves, what skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
Want to read more? The Press has you covered!
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52.1% Human-centred experience and communication
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15.1% Critical thinking
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30% Resilience and adaptability
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2.9% Other - I will share below!
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