FEBRUARY'S WEATHER
February in Kāpiti, along with the rest of western central New Zealand, saw a return to the cool, cloudy and windy conditions of December, more like what we might expect in autumn. Except for January it wasn’t the greatest summer, but it was dry.
Our daily average maximum temperature of 22.6C was almost a degree cooler than average, and a degree cooler than February 2023. But for much of the month it was actually the coolest February recorded in over a decade. Despite lower temperatures we still reached 20C every day; the warmest being Wednesday 22 with 27.7C.
As usual for time of year, and especially this El Nino summer, east coast Blenheim and Masterton had the highest average maximums in central New Zealand, however, Kāpiti’s overall mean temperature of 18.4C was the highest in central New Zealand,
February had the equivalent of 17 sunny days, two fewer than average, with the longest spell of sunshine occurring in the third week, despite rain being forecast.
Total rainfall of 33mm recorded at the airport was half the longtime average, again reflecting the low precipitation of recent months. Yesterday’s rain (March 4) amounting to just under 30mm will go some way in relieving recent months’ deficits.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
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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76.9% Yes
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22.2% No
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0.9% Other - I'll share below
Kapiti Coast Distilled: A Family and Friends' Foraged Gin
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
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
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