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The festive season is always a great excuse to indulge your sweet tooth, and this time of year poses the perfect opportunity to bring a real showstopper to the Christmas table.
For Suellen’s family, that showstopper is Croquembouche, an impressive tower of cream puffs bound together with … View moreThe festive season is always a great excuse to indulge your sweet tooth, and this time of year poses the perfect opportunity to bring a real showstopper to the Christmas table.
For Suellen’s family, that showstopper is Croquembouche, an impressive tower of cream puffs bound together with spun sugar that is popular at weddings in France and Italy.
What began as a birthday treat at a local French café has become a cherished Christmas tradition for Suellen and her 17-year-old twin granddaughters, Ellie and Sadie. Every year, the trio gather in Suellen’s apartment at William Sanders Village to cook this festive dessert - a holiday highlight they all treasure.
Click read more for the recipe.
NZRailways Jigger or parts. Restoration project.
Keep an old pensioner happy.
Phone. Dave, 07 544 6662. Thanks.
Thank you for supporting the Tauranga SeniorNet Club Inc.
During 2024 many members learnt how to use social media, stay in touch with family and friends, online banking and much more through attending the clubs courses with other seniors for mobile phones and other computer devices.
The program … View moreThank you for supporting the Tauranga SeniorNet Club Inc.
During 2024 many members learnt how to use social media, stay in touch with family and friends, online banking and much more through attending the clubs courses with other seniors for mobile phones and other computer devices.
The program for the first term of 2025 along with information about SeniorNet plus how to contact the club is now on the clubs web site www.taurangasenionet.co.nz...
Come join the club in 2025
Kia ora neighbours. We give away free copies to readers whose recipes are used in our magazine. We're still on the hunt for tomato recipes, so send your family's favourite way to use up your homegrown harvest, to: mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. If we use it in the mag, you will receive a free … View moreKia ora neighbours. We give away free copies to readers whose recipes are used in our magazine. We're still on the hunt for tomato recipes, so send your family's favourite way to use up your homegrown harvest, to: mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. If we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of the mag
A luxury mattress can make all the difference after all the holiday excitement. ?✨ Consider pairing it with a plush pillow, a stylish new headboard, or a cosy sleep hamper to complete the perfect bedroom retreat. ?️? Treat your loved ones (or yourself) to the gift of restful nights this festive… View moreA luxury mattress can make all the difference after all the holiday excitement. ?✨ Consider pairing it with a plush pillow, a stylish new headboard, or a cosy sleep hamper to complete the perfect bedroom retreat. ?️? Treat your loved ones (or yourself) to the gift of restful nights this festive season!
#Beds4U #SleepComfort #HolidayGiftGuide #HolidayGiving #PerfectGift
Neighbourly members across the country have been sharing their festive decor to be in to win the title of NZ's Merriest Home. We've narrowed the entries down to six finalists (our toughest feat yet!).
Now it's up to you!
Click on the name of the finalist to see all of their … View moreNeighbourly members across the country have been sharing their festive decor to be in to win the title of NZ's Merriest Home. We've narrowed the entries down to six finalists (our toughest feat yet!).
Now it's up to you!
Click on the name of the finalist to see all of their photos before you cast your merry vote!
Nishan Wijesinghe from Te Atatu South - See all photos here
Mark Williams from Tamatea - See all photos here
Linda Clack from Cockle Bay - See all photos here
Luke Murphy from Hornby - See all photos here
Joanne Isles from Hokowhitu - See all photos here
Kirstyn Tait from Wigram - See all photos here
The finalist with the most votes will win the title of NZ's Merriest Home and $200 to go toward more Christmas goodies!
You can also enlarge the images below by clicking on them. Happy voting, neighbours!
Venetian plaster finishes are on-trend at the moment, so why not recreate this look at home and cover that unsightly rangehood at the same time? Find out how to create your own with Resene Sandtex and these easy step by step instructions.
The festive season is nearly here—what better way to celebrate than by giving yourself or others the chance to win a stunning, brand-new home in Clarks Beach, Auckland!
Valued at over $1 million, this fully furnished home features three bedrooms, plus a spacious open-plan kitchen, living, and … View moreThe festive season is nearly here—what better way to celebrate than by giving yourself or others the chance to win a stunning, brand-new home in Clarks Beach, Auckland!
Valued at over $1 million, this fully furnished home features three bedrooms, plus a spacious open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area.
Make it your dream home, a holiday retreat, a rental property, or sell it—the choice is yours!
Tickets are just $15 each, and every purchase helps fund life-saving heart research. Get yours today at heartlottery.org.nz.
Create a peaceful holiday routine by winding down early. Sip some hot cocoa and enjoy the calm before the holiday hustle!
# Beds4U #HolidaySelfCare #BetterSleep #SleepTips
There's new ones every year, some become classics and some are not so good. What do you consider your favourite Christmas song.
And more importantly, what song would you ban? Share below!
Helping Your Kids Buy a Home: Using the "Bank of Mum and Dad" the Right Way
These days, getting on the property ladder is no small feat. For many young buyers, the Bank of Mum and Dad has become a key resource. While helping your kids secure their first home can be incredibly … View moreHelping Your Kids Buy a Home: Using the "Bank of Mum and Dad" the Right Way
These days, getting on the property ladder is no small feat. For many young buyers, the Bank of Mum and Dad has become a key resource. While helping your kids secure their first home can be incredibly rewarding, it’s important to approach it with care to protect your finances—and your family relationships. Here’s how to support your kids wisely and set everyone up for long-term success.
1. Start with an Open Conversation
Before diving into numbers, have a clear, honest conversation with your kids. What are their goals? How much do they need? And just as importantly, what can you realistically provide without compromising your own financial security? Open communication lays the foundation for a smooth and stress-free process.
2. Assess Your Financial Position
It’s natural to want to help, but make sure you’re not stretching yourself too thin. Look closely at your savings, retirement plans, and other financial commitments. A frank discussion with a financial advisor can help you determine how much you can offer without putting your future at risk.
3. Know the Ways You Can Help
The “Bank of Mum and Dad” isn’t just about handing over cash. You might:
- Gift a deposit: A straightforward option, but be aware of potential tax implications.
- Loan the money: If you go this route, it’s a good idea to formalise the agreement.
- Act as a guarantor: This involves using your assets to back their loan, which comes with risks.
Each option has its pros and cons, so take the time to explore what works best for everyone.
4. Get Professional Advice
Property transactions with family can be complex. Consulting a lawyer or financial advisor ensures you understand the legal and financial implications. They can help you navigate tax considerations, create formal agreements, and protect everyone’s interests. A bit of professional guidance now can save a lot of stress later.
5. Set Clear Terms and Boundaries
To avoid misunderstandings, it’s crucial to establish clear terms from the beginning. If you’re gifting money, make sure it’s understood as a gift. If it’s a loan, agree on repayment terms, timelines, and whether interest will apply. These boundaries help maintain trust and ensure everyone is on the same page.
6. Think About Long-Term Implications
While it’s wonderful to help your kids buy a home, consider how it fits into your bigger picture. Will this impact your retirement plans or other financial goals? You’ve worked hard for your security—make sure helping them doesn’t put it at risk.
7. Foster Accountability
It’s important that your kids understand the value of your support and handle it responsibly. Encouraging them to budget wisely, meet financial obligations, and stick to any agreements can help them build a strong foundation for their future.
8. Celebrate the Milestone!
Helping your kids buy their first home is a big deal, and it deserves to be celebrated. Whether it’s a family dinner or simply raising a toast, take time to enjoy this special milestone together.
The Bottom Line
As a parent, being able to help your kids buy a home is an incredible gift, but it’s one that requires thoughtful planning. By having open conversations, setting clear boundaries, and seeking professional guidance, you can provide meaningful support without jeopardising your own financial security. Done right, the Bank of Mum and Dad can be a stepping stone to their future—and a lasting investment in your family’s legacy.
Contact me for any real estate questions you and your family would like advice on. My advice is given freely and without obligation.
Pack your bags, hit the open road, or set sail on your next big adventure. With Ryman’s lock-and-leave-style living, you’re free to explore without worrying about home maintenance or security.
While you’re off enjoying life, we’ll take care of everything back home – from mowing the … View morePack your bags, hit the open road, or set sail on your next big adventure. With Ryman’s lock-and-leave-style living, you’re free to explore without worrying about home maintenance or security.
While you’re off enjoying life, we’ll take care of everything back home – from mowing the lawns to watering the garden, pulling weeds, and even cleaning the windows.
Ryman residents are free to embrace adventure because they're not tied down with home maintenance stress and security worries. They're rediscovering lost passions and plunging headfirst into new ones whenever they feel like it.
Click find out more to discover the lifestyle.
It's well over a year since the 2023 election. Whether you were pleased with the result or not, we'd love to know how you are feeling about the changes the government have made so far?
Share your thoughts below.
Hi neighbours,
I am looking for recommendations for an affordable, qualified heatpump/ aircon installer.
Many thanks 😃
William Sanders resident Suellen loves Christmas and the joy of having family close by. To make the holiday season easier, she shares her favourite tips and hacks. From decorating with lights and faux snow to prepping meals ahead of time and using reusable gift bags, Suellen’s ideas help bring … View moreWilliam Sanders resident Suellen loves Christmas and the joy of having family close by. To make the holiday season easier, she shares her favourite tips and hacks. From decorating with lights and faux snow to prepping meals ahead of time and using reusable gift bags, Suellen’s ideas help bring festive cheer without the stress. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly options or simple ways to enhance your celebrations, these tips will make your Christmas brighter and more enjoyable.
Click read more for Suellen’s tips.
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