2655 days ago

Needle found in capsicum no cause for panic, MPI say

Georgia Reporter from Stuff

Hi neighbours,

A Tauranga woman was recently left with a sharp taste in her mouth after finding a needle in a capsicum. The needle scratched her tongue but luckily did not do any serious damage. Police and MPI are investigating the incident.

Although a needle was also found in a strawberry in Geraldine this week, MPI currently believe they are isolated incidents.

The public are being urged to report anything out of the ordinary to the retailer or MPI.

What are your thoughts on this topic? Are you a vegetable grower that could be affected by this incident? Or have you ever found things like this in your food? Share your views with us in the replies below!
(Please add "NFP/not for print" if you do not want your images/ comments used on Stuff)

Image
More messages from your neighbours
11 days ago

Share your favourite main crop potato recipe and win a copy of our mag!

William Hansby Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Love potatoes? We will give away free copies of the May 2026 issue to readers whose potato recipes are used in our magazine. To be in the running, make sure you email your family's favourite way to enjoy potatoes: mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, by March 1, 2026.

Image
30 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.

Image
10 days ago

Considering Renting Out Your Holiday Home?

Bachcare

Hey Neighbours,
Are you thinking about renting out your holiday home, or want better results from your short-term rental?

As part of the Neighbourly community, Bachcare is offering you a FREE short-term rental appraisal to help discover your property’s earning potential.

With over 20 years of experience, Bachcare supports more than 1,500 homeowners nationwide with 24/7 guest management, local on-the-ground support, and professional cleaning services. We make hosting effortless while maximising your income.

Feel free to reach out to us if you want to find out more!

The Bachcare Team
Find out more

Image