1900 days ago

Not So Easy Christmas

Rhonda Neighbourly Lead from Hastings Central

Christmas is coming!
Is this Christmas going to be a first for you since someone you loved passed away?
Perhaps, this year, marks two or more years since your loved one left this earthly life?
One thing you might like to do is create a tradition with them in mind.
Possible ideas are:
* set a place for them at the table
* say a prayer of thanksgiving that they lived
* make a dish and give it their name "Noeline's Desert"
* collect some berries because that is what they used to do
- "Keith's Berries".
* listen to their favourite music
* go for a walk or have a game with them in mind because that is what they liked to do

The memory of a person no longer with us can be a powerful aid in coping with our grief.
Strength and Peace be yours this Christmas.
With Kind Wishes to you all
Rhonda

Image
More messages from your neighbours
8 hours 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.

Image
19 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.

Image
3 hours ago

ORGAN RECITAL

Elma Pienaar from St Columba's Presbyterian Church

Sunday 8 March at 3.30pm at St Columba's Church Havelock North. World renowned German organist Hans Uwe Hilscher. Admission $10/koha.

Image