652 days ago

Precautionary evacuation

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Rotorua Lakes Council emergency management is asking residents of Western Road (Ngongotaha) to self- evacuate.

What you need to know:
- The evacuation is a precautionary measure in case the river rises higher.
- This is not a declared state of emergency, but the situation is being monitored.
- Council is working with Bay of Plenty Regional Council to monitor stream levels and the incoming rain forecast.
- Council staff will be out in Ngongotahā, going from house to house on Western Road talking to residents and providing advice about self-evacuation but it will take some time for the team to reach everyone.

IF YOU ARE ASKED TO EVACUATE:
- Take something warm to wear and essentials (medication, baby food etc). Take your pets.
- If possible, go to friends and whanau. Otherwise, move away from the river to a dry, safe location.
This does not mean the river WILL flood, but Civil Defence don't want to be taking any chances with people's safety.

Council is encouraging any other residents living near waterways to keep an eye on what is happening around their properties. If you see issues or feel you need to evacuate please contact council on 07 348 4199.

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More messages from your neighbours
9 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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28 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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8 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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