2055 days ago

A festival of aroha – Let's make Matariki a public holiday in 2021

Stacey Reporter from Stuff

Hi neighbours,

Today, Stuff is launching a campaign to make Matariki a public holiday from 2021.

Plucked from obscurity and given the breath of life, since the turn of the century, Matariki has blossomed into an inclusive, popular event.

Tied to the rising of Matariki, the Pleiades star cluster, in the night sky, the festival marks the start of te Mātahi o te tau, the new year.

Once a casualty of colonisation, Matariki’s comeback has fostered greater use of te reo Māori, and recognition for Māori customary practices.

We believe it is past time to officially acknowledge all Matariki stands for in our national calendar. To learn more about Stuff's campaign, click here

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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.

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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.

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9 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

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