Ohauiti, Tauranga

Looking for a local tradie?

Looking for a local tradie?

18 days ago

Poll: Cast your vote for NZ's Merriest Home 2024

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

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 more
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 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!

Cast your vote for NZ's Merriest Home 2024
  • 17.3% Nishan Wijesinghe from Te Atatu South
    17.3% Complete
  • 27.9% Mark Williams from Tamatea
    27.9% Complete
  • 6.1% Linda Clack from Cockle Bay
    6.1% Complete
  • 25.9% Luke Murphy from Hornby
    25.9% Complete
  • 6.9% Joanne Isles from Hokowhitu
    6.9% Complete
  • 16% Kirstyn Tait from Wigram
    16% Complete
757 votes
15 days ago

On the range

Resene

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. Find out more

Image
16 days ago

Give the gift of tickets this christmas!

Heart Foundation Lottery

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 more
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 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.
Find out more

Image
22 days ago

What's your favourite Christmas song?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

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!

Image
16 days ago

Using the "Bank of Mum and Dad" the Right Way

Matt from Matt Wineera - Thats Real Estate with Matt Wineera

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 more
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 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.

Image
17 days ago

Explore more, worry less at Ryman

The Team from Ryman Healthcare

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 more
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 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.
Find out more

Image
J
18 days ago

Highly recommend this House Cleaning Services

Jacki from Tauriko

CHEMWASH TAURANGA 021 0253 2179 did an amazing job on cleaning our house, roof, gutters decks and driveway. Great service! It's not often one wants to share but this service needs a HIGH FIVE! Thanks CHEMWASH.

Image
19 days ago

How's the government doing so far?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

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.

Image
18 days ago

Essential Christmas hacks

Bob Owens Retirement Village

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.

Image
25 days ago

Have you ever been wrongly ticketed?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

A Wellington man was wrongly issued a parking fine and spent over 40 hours going back and forward with Hutt City Council about it.

Have you ever been unfairly fined?

Image
20 days ago

Donate to support Kiwis' Christmas and Beyond

Salvation Army

The Salvation Army's annual Christmas Appeal, "Give A Little Joy This Christmas," is crucial this year due to rising hardship.

Over one in five Kiwi children face food insecurity, with the situation worse for Māori and Pacific families. Rising unemployment and the cost of living… View more
The Salvation Army's annual Christmas Appeal, "Give A Little Joy This Christmas," is crucial this year due to rising hardship.

Over one in five Kiwi children face food insecurity, with the situation worse for Māori and Pacific families. Rising unemployment and the cost of living crisis are pushing more people into need, but donations and government support are dwindling.

Despite this, The Salvation Army continues to provide vital services, including food, counselling, and lifestyle programmes. Donations, no matter the size, bring long-term change to families, ensuring joy this Christmas and beyond.

For more information on how you can support The Salvation Army's Christmas Appeal, please visit:
www.salvationarmy.org.nz...
or phone 0800 53 00 00
Find Out More

Image
20 days ago

🎄 Need a gift for the hard-to-buy-for?🎄

Mags4Gifts

Why not gift them a magazine subscription tailored to their interests? This Christmas, find the perfect gifts at Mags4Gifts! We're offering up to 30% off a wide range of magazines – there’s something for everyone in your whanau!

Whether you’re searching for a thoughtful secret Santa … View more
Why not gift them a magazine subscription tailored to their interests? This Christmas, find the perfect gifts at Mags4Gifts! We're offering up to 30% off a wide range of magazines – there’s something for everyone in your whanau!

Whether you’re searching for a thoughtful secret Santa gift or something special to put under the tree, we’ve got you covered with a great selection for all interests.

Don’t miss out – shop now at Mags4Gifts.com and enjoy the savings!
Find out more

Image
K
20 days ago

Garage sale

Kanyawi from Ohauiti

Garage sale at 22 McFetridge Lane, Ohauiti, Tauranga.
Start at 9 am till 1 pm
Women clothes and shoes
Household stuffs...etc
Everything must be gone as moving to other country soon

Negotiable

M
20 days ago

GARAGE SALE

Margaret from Papamoa Beach

TOMORROW SUNDAY AT 8.AM GARAGE SALE.
64 GRAVATT ROAD PAPAMOA

Negotiable

M
20 days ago

GARAGE SALE

Margaret from Papamoa Beach

TOMORROW SUNDAY 15TH DECEMBER
8.AM AT 64 GRAVATT ROAD, PAPAMOA

Top