1888 days ago

We Say, You Say: Swimming Spots

Neighbourly.co.nz

Hi Canterbury,

Would you be put off by a health warning at your local swimming spot?

Around 100 popular swimming locations across the country have been slapped with health warnings for the summer season this year.

Local councils reported long-term poor water quality due to the presence of algal blooms and high concentrations of sediment in popular swimming spots like Lake Rotorua, Waikanae Beach and Paraparaumu Beach. Some of these sites have had consistently low scoring that local councils have stopped monitoring them and have instead posted long-term warning signs against swimming.

Swimmers that ignore signs risk gastrointestinal illnesses and respiratory diseases from water made hazardous by farm runoff, sewage contamination and high bacteria counts.

Share your thoughts below and don't forget to type NFP if you don't want your comments featured in the conversations section of your local paper.
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More messages from your neighbours
22 days ago

Poll: As a customer, what do you think about automation?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Press investigates the growing reliance on your unpaid labour.

Automation (or the “unpaid shift”) is often described as efficient ... but it tends to benefit employers more than consumers.

We want to know: What do you think about automation?
Are you for, or against?

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As a customer, what do you think about automation?
  • 9.5% For. Self-service is less frustrating and convenient.
    9.5% Complete
  • 43.4% I want to be able to choose.
    43.4% Complete
  • 47.1% Against. I want to deal with people.
    47.1% Complete
2518 votes
26 days ago

Poll: Would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? 🌿🐦

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Canterbury, you have a hidden treasure right on your doorstep ... though it does come with a 1.5-hour walk up the stunning Rakaia Gorge Walkway.

Along the trail you’ll find The Fantail Shop showcasing small artworks by local artisans. Even better, every purchase supports the Fantail Trust, helping protect and restore biodiversity on the north bank of the gorge.

So we’re curious: would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? (And for local biodiversity, of course 🌿)

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Would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? 🌿🐦
  • 31.5% Yes!
    31.5% Complete
  • 68.5% No thank you.
    68.5% Complete
181 votes
6 days ago

Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

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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