M
449 days ago

Know your conspiracies

Mike from Paraparaumu

In these times of fake news, misinformation and disinformation, I think it is important to know the difference between a conspiracy theory and a conspiracy. Simply put, conspiracies leak and conspiracy theories don't. It's impossible to conspire without exchanging information and in today's tech world that's a major vulnerability. Genuine conspiracies are discovered through whistleblowers leaking that information.The Edward Snowden papers and the Cambridge Analytica scandal are examples. The Panama Papers conspiracy [to hide wealth] alone featured eleven and a half million leaked emails. The most famous conspiracy of all only involved fifteen plotters who met in the Duck and Drake pub in London, yet it was was betrayed unintentionally by a leaked letter. The Guy Fawkes Gunpowder Plot to assassinate King James I and the English parliament was thwarted and we still celebrate that over four hundred years later. So, no leaks no conspiracy, just a theory...and anyone can make one of those up.

More messages from your neighbours
11 hours ago

Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.

This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.

Do you think this ban is reasonable?

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Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
  • 76.5% Yes
    76.5% Complete
  • 22.7% No
    22.7% Complete
  • 0.8% Other - I'll share below
    0.8% Complete
520 votes
1 day ago

Tui & Pohutukawa (0354)

Paul from Levin

Tui, bee & Pohutukawa

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1 day ago

Kapiti Coast Distilled: A Family and Friends' Foraged Gin

Jocelyn from Waikanae

In an exciting development for local spirits enthusiasts, Elsewhere Gin has released a limited edition Kapiti expression that truly captures the essence of our coastal region.

This unique gin, priced at $95 per bottle, is the result of a heartwarming collaboration between Elsewhere Gin and Mark Rose's parents and their friends in Kapiti who embarked on a community foraging adventure, handpicking an array of native botanicals including kohekohe, kauri tips, strawberry guava, horopito, and kawakawa. These locally sourced ingredients were combined with classic gin botanicals, lemon, and rosemary to create a spirit that is both familiar and distinctly Kapiti.

The gin offers a sensory journey through our coastal landscape. It opens with subtle vanilla notes from the kohekohe, followed by the sweetness of strawberry guava. The addition of horopito lends a peppery kick, while kawakawa adds a unique herbal complexity. The finish showcases the zesty lemon and aromatic rosemary that grow abundantly in our region.

"This gin is a love letter to Kapiti," says Rose. "It's not just my creation, but a true community effort. Every sip tells a story of our unique ecosystem, our shared knowledge, and the incredible flavors we have right here in our backyard."

With only a small batch produced, this Kapiti gin is expected to sell out quickly. It's more than just a drink; it's a bottled experience of our local terroir and community spirit, perfect for those who appreciate the finer aspects of craft spirits and the beauty of our coastal home.

Available exclusively through Elsewhere Gin, please contact Michael Anderson for this limited edition gin that offers a rare opportunity to taste the Kapiti coast - and its community - in a glass.

Michael Anderson
021 620 065
Email; michael.anderson@xtra.co.nz

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