Minimum wage, no help and on the ladder at 25: here's how they did it
I loved talking to Courtney Mason about how she and her husband ben bought their first home. It really offers a lot of hope for folks who might be looking at the property market and wondering what on earth is happening out there these days.
Courtney and Ben were tenacious and bold, and now they're living happily in their Hawke's Bay home.
Have a read and see how they did it, and while you're at it have a listen to our third episode of First Rung, the podcast for first home buyers for a little more inspiration.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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59.3% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26.2% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.5% ... It is complicated
Poll: Could having a bigger university presence bring new opportunities and energy to the Bay of Plenty?
As reported in The Post, the University of Waikato is planting roots in Tauranga as it works on “ambitious plans” to grow its Durham St campus. The goal? To see Tauranga recognised as a true “university city.”
We want to know: Could having a bigger university presence bring new opportunities and energy to the region? We’d love to hear your thoughts!
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70.6% Yes!
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17.6% Nah
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11.8% Mmm, let's wait and see
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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