The Benefits of Buying Locally
Want to put your money where your heart is? Locally made products come with a whole lot of benefits - typically higher quality and greater attention to detail being in the top two.
The face behind the product had a dream of starting up on their own, knew in their heart of hearts it was a great product (or service) and believed it could help others. So, they took some risks, took over the dining table, made lots of mistakes, thought about the business day and night - but always kept going. Here are some decent reasons to shop local...
Boosting the local economy: Seventy per cent of all NZ Enterprises are sole traders. That's a big number. But purchasing locally doesn't just build an economic future for small businesses, it’s an economic confidence that spills out into other areas in life and the community.
Customer service: Buy locally and you are sure to receive a customer service above the ordinary. Plus, it's always reassuring to know you can call a local number if somethings amiss or not quite right.
Feel good factor: Knowing that your money lands in the lap of a local business with integrity and passion creates that lovely feel-good factor. You can see the love in the product, the packaging, the personal notes.
Customised goods = meeting consumer needs: More often than not you are talking to the maker directly so selecting a specific colour or changing out something is more likely to happen.
Keep reading: www.curtainclean.co.nz...
Spring gardening tips
Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcare’s Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. You’ll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and let’s dig in.
Click read more for more information.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84.6% Yes
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13.9% No
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1.5% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.