Bethlehem, Tauranga

17 hours ago

Here's another riddle for you, neighbours!

Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

Feed me and I will live, but give me a drink and I will die. What am I?

Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.

Want to stop seeing riddles in… View more
Feed me and I will live, but give me a drink and I will die. What am I?

Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.

Want to stop seeing riddles in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.

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17 hours ago

Keep yourself protected against Covid

Ministry of Health

It might not be making quite so many headlines these days, but unfortunately, Covid is still here. If you’re 65 or over, taking care of yourself is just as important as ever.

The good news is, keeping up to date with the Covid vaccine can help protect you from serious illness. It’s free. And… View more
It might not be making quite so many headlines these days, but unfortunately, Covid is still here. If you’re 65 or over, taking care of yourself is just as important as ever.

The good news is, keeping up to date with the Covid vaccine can help protect you from serious illness. It’s free. And recommended for you and many others as long as you haven’t had the vaccine, or Covid, in the last 6 months.

To book your vaccination, or talk to your healthcare provider.
Find out more

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1 day ago

Poll: Is it still rude to wear a hat inside?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Times have changed and perhaps so has our societal rules around taking off hats when indoors. What are your thoughts?

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Is it still rude to wear a hat inside?
  • 74.4% Yes, take them off indoors
    74.4% Complete
  • 24.4% No, it's not anymore
    24.4% Complete
  • 1.2% Other - I'll share below
    1.2% Complete
1637 votes
1 hour ago

Poll: Would you rather...

Beds4U Tauranga

Choose on one of the below:

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Would you rather...
  • 0% Sleep in complete silence
    0% Complete
  • 0% Fall asleep to soothing background noise like rain or waves
    0% Complete
0 votes
S
3 hours ago

Cycle Mechanic

Sue from Tauriko

Can anyone recommend a good cycle mechanic, that can deal with electric bikes.

3 hours ago

Coast council accepts 27% rates rise — one of the highest in the country

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By local democracy reporter Brendon McMahon:

The West Coast Regional Council today adopted its new 10-year plan and with it a 27% rates rise in the first year.

In 2023 council ratified a 16.4% general increase and under its 2024-34 long-term plan projects a 12% increase in 2025-26, followed … View more
By local democracy reporter Brendon McMahon:

The West Coast Regional Council today adopted its new 10-year plan and with it a 27% rates rise in the first year.

In 2023 council ratified a 16.4% general increase and under its 2024-34 long-term plan projects a 12% increase in 2025-26, followed by rates increases annually of no more than 7%.

Council chairperson Peter Haddock prefaced proceedings on June 25 by noting "eight long workshops" from April 2023. They were to set the LTP consultation document before the draft was released for public scrutiny in April.

It attracted just 25 submissions.

The council voted on Tuesday, six to one, to adopt the LTP including the rates increase.

However, the formal rates setting has been delayed for the latest rating valuation for Westland district, the outcome of the annual Greymouth Floodwall meeting, and confirmation of regional flood assets values.

Disaffected former chairperson Allan Birchfield was the sole dissenter.

He said the council, with its return to inhouse capacity - away from a reliance on external contractors - was "getting too big".

Staff numbers are up to about 80 full-time equivalent this year from about 60 in previous years.

"I think we've increased too much in size.

"I think council needs to restructure downwards," Birchfield said.

In response, Haddock asked Birchfield how many workshops he had contributed his time to develop the LTP.

"None," Birchfield replied.

Birchfield also defended his absence from the LTP submissions hearing last month due to surgery.

Rebuilding in-house capability by lessoning the council's reliance on consultants as it embarks on major flood work across the region was an underlying focus in the new plan.

But councillor Brett Cummings also sounded a warning:
The council had to consider when "the tap of Government money is turned off", he said.

It risked being left bearing full-time employees costing "$300,000 a year" - the equivalent of the consultants council sought to avoid.

Cummings said the true cost of returning inhouse needed to be transparent for all to see.

"That's what people are going to be asking me. (Otherwise) it's like Shane Jones - it's all puff and wind," Cummings said.

Chief executive Darryl Lew said the 10-year plan formal start on July 1 marked a revitalised staff with a full leadership team for the first time in years.

The organisation had been "realigned" in anticipation of that.

"This plan positions itself to tackle those (challenges) for our community," Lew said.

"I'm particularly pleased that we have developed a financial strategy over the next 10 years that sees us return to surplus in year four."

New internal investment was gratifying to see including a full inhouse engineering team, Lew said.

Risk and Assurance chairperson Frank Dooley said the past 12 months signified a major turn for council with the LTP an example of what "has been achieved".

He said he felt like "clapping" for Lew.

"I think we owe a debt of gratitude to our CEO. He walked in here just on 12 months ago to a broken organisation," Dooley said.

"I'm excited as a councillor where we've come from 18 months ago to where we are today."

Haddock said council had "rebuilt a broken entity".

It could now achieve significant community outcomes, including the $22.9m flood resilience scheme for Westport.

While Birchfield questioned the 27% increase, Dooley was "impressed with the level of information" council had in order to ratify the LTP.

"Councillors who have participated in the eight or nine workshops are fully conversant today," he said.

Acting corporate services manager Aaron Prendergast confirmed a 27% increase in both the Uniform Annual General Charge and the general "rates requirement".

Councillor Peter Ewen said council had faced other significant pressures aside from lack of staff including external cost impositions due to new central government policies.

"The reset we've done is facing that reality," he said.

"As far as having too many staff, being top heavy, going back in-house is one way of doing it. You can't have it both ways."

6 hours ago

Have you ever done a marathon fundraiser?

The Team Reporter from Hamilton Press

Zane Jowsey tries “everything on the planet” to help his son. Now he can add playing golf for 24 hours straight to the list.

Max, 18, uses a wheelchair - as do many who attend the Physical Assistance Centre at Hamilton’s Hillcrest High with him.

They love to “go and do excursions”, … View more
Zane Jowsey tries “everything on the planet” to help his son. Now he can add playing golf for 24 hours straight to the list.

Max, 18, uses a wheelchair - as do many who attend the Physical Assistance Centre at Hamilton’s Hillcrest High with him.

They love to “go and do excursions”, Zane Jowsey said, but it’s difficult with no van and 10 of 17 students in wheelchairs.

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6 hours ago

Do you have information on Tom Phillips that could help the police?

Libby Totton Reporter from Waikato Times

Tom Phillips and his three children remain on the run from police as an $80,000 reward offer expires.

The cash reward offered by police two weeks ago also came with immunity for anyone with information that could lead to the kids’ return.

Yet it expires at 11.59pm Tuesday.

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17 hours ago

Let's go to the movies...

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Congratulations to these winners who've each won a $50 cinema gift card:

Nicole Macpherson from Cambridge

Amy Smith from Rotorua

Lauchlan Young from Meadowbank

View more
Congratulations to these winners who've each won a $50 cinema gift card:

Nicole Macpherson from Cambridge

Amy Smith from Rotorua

Lauchlan Young from Meadowbank

John Harris from Christchurch

Pauline Castle from Thorndon

Get in touch here before the 2nd of July, winners!

We have prize draws every Tuesday so make sure you come back every week and check whether you're a winner.

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1 day ago

Check your details!

Entrust

If you’ve got a power account and live in Central, East or South Auckland, a dividend payment may be coming your way in late September. It’s as easy as looking out for the Entrust pack in your letterbox or email inbox.

Check we have your correct details and update us by email, mail or … View more
If you’ve got a power account and live in Central, East or South Auckland, a dividend payment may be coming your way in late September. It’s as easy as looking out for the Entrust pack in your letterbox or email inbox.

Check we have your correct details and update us by email, mail or through the secure web link provided in your email or letter.
Find out more

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J
1 day ago

House Cleaner wanted

Jacki from Tauriko

House cleaner wanted with references. In Tauriko.
Happy to pay well for a job well done.
Approx 3-4 hours once or twice a month.
Choose your hours between 9-3pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday.
Call Jacki 021 0735661

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1 day ago

Check your details!

Entrust

If you’ve got a power account and live in Central, East or South Auckland, a dividend payment may be coming your way in late September. It’s as easy as looking out for the Entrust pack in your letterbox or email inbox.

Check we have your correct details and update us by email, mail or … View more
If you’ve got a power account and live in Central, East or South Auckland, a dividend payment may be coming your way in late September. It’s as easy as looking out for the Entrust pack in your letterbox or email inbox.

Check we have your correct details and update us by email, mail or through the secure web link provided in your email or letter.
Find out more

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J
1 day ago

Art workshop Painting Portraiture

Jacki from Tauriko

Painting Portraiture with Damien at Back Studio, situated in Lakes/ Tauriko
When: Saturday 20th July 9.30-12.30
Cost: $80 Materials provided,
Call Jacki for details: 0210735661
or email Jacki@backstudio.nz

1 day ago

Haven Falls Funeral Home Ki Rotorua

Haven Falls

Haven Falls are very blessed to be in Rotorua.

Located at 271 Old Taupo Road, Rotorua these facilities offer a large chapel, dining hall, and extended off road parking.

We invite you at anytime to pop in and speak with one of our team members and have a look around the facilities offered. … View more
Haven Falls are very blessed to be in Rotorua.

Located at 271 Old Taupo Road, Rotorua these facilities offer a large chapel, dining hall, and extended off road parking.

We invite you at anytime to pop in and speak with one of our team members and have a look around the facilities offered.

We operate 24 hours 7 days a week.
0800 428366
Find out more

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1 day ago

Residents ‘dig’ Ryman’s Trees for Fees initiative

Bob Owens Retirement Village

With 500 trees now newly-planted on a slope in a Whitford farm paddock, Ryman Healthcare is well on the way to fulfilling its promise of a more sustainable invoicing process.

For every resident who switches from paper to email invoicing, Ryman has pledged to plant a tree, and has partnered with … View more
With 500 trees now newly-planted on a slope in a Whitford farm paddock, Ryman Healthcare is well on the way to fulfilling its promise of a more sustainable invoicing process.

For every resident who switches from paper to email invoicing, Ryman has pledged to plant a tree, and has partnered with Trees for Survival Charitable Trust to achieve this goal.

Click read more for the full story.

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3 days ago

Need Dentures? We can help

Dyverse Dentures

Call now for free consultation

• Complete Denture
• Partial Denture
• Same day Denture relines and repairs
• Provide WINZ Quote and insurance claim.

Contact us at 09 634 4543.
12C Waddon Place, Māngere, Auckland 2022
Find out more

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9 days ago

Do you volunteer or know someone who does?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

It's NZ Volunteer Week (16-22 June) and we know there are real good sorts in your community.

Often these kind acts and regular volunteering efforts go unnoticed but let's put a stop to that.

Let us know below who is making a difference in your neighbourhood so we can all … View more
It's NZ Volunteer Week (16-22 June) and we know there are real good sorts in your community.

Often these kind acts and regular volunteering efforts go unnoticed but let's put a stop to that.

Let us know below who is making a difference in your neighbourhood so we can all appreciate them for the great work that they do!

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3 days ago

New Lottery, New Home

Heart Foundation Lotteries

For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in the charming coastal town of Mangawhai, worth almost $1.4 million dollars.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be … View more
For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in the charming coastal town of Mangawhai, worth almost $1.4 million dollars.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by its new owner.

Make this property your permanent residence, a holiday home, a rental, or you can simply sell it!

Get your tickets today at heartlottery.org.nz.
Find out more

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10 days ago

Public Meeting To SAVE TAURANGA

Maurice from Tauranga City

The commissioners have been a disaster! Their Long-Term Plan (LTP) will destroy the character and bankrupt Tauranga. This election is between those candidates who support the LTP and those who don't.
Come and to Garth Mathieson & John Robson tell the facts and what you need to do to save… View more
The commissioners have been a disaster! Their Long-Term Plan (LTP) will destroy the character and bankrupt Tauranga. This election is between those candidates who support the LTP and those who don't.
Come and to Garth Mathieson & John Robson tell the facts and what you need to do to save our city. This will be the most important meeting you will attend. NOT TO BE MISSED.
Consider ... Why have the commissioners committed to spend over $1 Billion dollars on the Te Papa Ward and little on any others. But all ratepayers in the other 7 wards will pay for the developments.
Thursday 20th June at 6.30pm at the Atrium 252 Otumoetai Rd - Saturday 22nd June at 5.15pm at Bethlehem Hall 239 St Hwy 2 - Sunday 23 June at Club Mount 45 Kawaka St Mount Maunganui.

4 days ago

A Whole New Lifestyle

Acacia Cove

Care, Community, And Connection

Acacia Cove, a country-style village situated on the beautiful Wattle Downs Peninsula has 31 weekly activities.

For those who appreciate the tranquility of an estuary setting Acacia Cove has it all, as well as its own restaurant, heated indoor pool, library, … View more
Care, Community, And Connection

Acacia Cove, a country-style village situated on the beautiful Wattle Downs Peninsula has 31 weekly activities.

For those who appreciate the tranquility of an estuary setting Acacia Cove has it all, as well as its own restaurant, heated indoor pool, library, bowling green and gym.

Whether you choose to live in a villa or one of our luxurious apartments, you’ll have the security of a 24 hour, fully monitored emergency call system built in.
If you’re aged 60 or over, value your independence but want greater security, come and have a look at the superb properties we have to offer.

Contact long time manager Bruce to book a visit today!
(09) 268 8522.
admin@ocaciacove.co.nz
Find out more

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4 days ago

Spice up your winter

Bob Owens Retirement Village

When it’s cold outside, there's nothing quite like being inside the cosy warmth of a kitchen infused with the aroma of spices. But did you know that beyond their aromatic allure, these spices harbour a treasure trove of health benefits?

From the fiery kick of chilli to the sweet warmth of… View more
When it’s cold outside, there's nothing quite like being inside the cosy warmth of a kitchen infused with the aroma of spices. But did you know that beyond their aromatic allure, these spices harbour a treasure trove of health benefits?

From the fiery kick of chilli to the sweet warmth of cinnamon, each spice brings not only flavour but also a host of nutrients and healing properties to our winter dishes. So, whether you're sipping on mulled wine, indulging in gingerbread, or savouring a hearty stew, every bite promises to not just please your palate but also contribute to your overall wellbeing.

Click read more for the full story.

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5 days ago

The mobile breast screen unit is coming to Levin

Mid Central DHB

Levin Mobile, next to War Memorial, Queen Street, Levin.

Click here to book an appointment or call us at 0800 270 200.
Find out more

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4 days ago

How do you cook swede?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Have you got a great recipe for swede? We're looking for delicious swede recipes to feature in NZ Gardener's August issue. Send your family's favourite ways to eat this root crop to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz by June 28, 2024. Every published recipe wins a copy of the August issue of … View moreHave you got a great recipe for swede? We're looking for delicious swede recipes to feature in NZ Gardener's August issue. Send your family's favourite ways to eat this root crop to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz by June 28, 2024. Every published recipe wins a copy of the August issue of NZ Gardener.

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5 days ago

Protect your fences this winter

CL Fence Painting

Protect your fences this winter with CL Fence Painting Specialists. 2 x coats of Premium Satin black, linseed oil, anti mould fence paint. Long lasting, premium finish with Guaranteed No Over Spray.

Free Quotes call 02102981522 or check out our videos on fb under cl fence painting specialists.
Find out more

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4 days ago

Bird Catcher Tree - Parapara

Lisa from Otumoetai

I have just spent some time trying to remove seed pods from a very distressed blackbird that could no longer fly. Please people if you have this tree either consider getting rid of it or spend some time to remove all the sticky seeds, which are like Superglue.
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