South Waikato District, Tokoroa

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1624 days ago

Economic recovery campaign launched

Chris Marshall Reporter from Taupō Times

A ‘Love this Place’ campaign has been launched to support businesses in the Taupō District.

The campaign also aims to share inspiring stories of enterprises adapting to the current environment, and shine the light on the area.

The primary goal of the ‘Love this Place’ campaign, said its… View more
A ‘Love this Place’ campaign has been launched to support businesses in the Taupō District.

The campaign also aims to share inspiring stories of enterprises adapting to the current environment, and shine the light on the area.

The primary goal of the ‘Love this Place’ campaign, said its creators, was to stimulate the local economy post Covid-19.

The campaign is a partnership between Destination Great Lake Taupō, Enterprise Great Lake Taupō, Towncentre Taupō, Taupō Business Chamber, and Turangi Tourism Group with support from Taupō District Council, and district-wide i-SITE visitor information centres.

Taupō District Mayor David Trewavas said he was delighted to see the initiative launched and urged all locals to get on board.

“This is all about showing our love and support for everything we have right here in our backyard. The Taupō District is an amazing place to live, work and play. Now is the time for everyone to support our local businesses, explore more of our own backyard and become an ambassador for our district.”

He urged the community to unite and spend locally whenever possible.

Turangi Tourism Group Chairman, Mike Bowie, also pplauded the launch of the new initiative.

“Our business community at the southern end of the lake has been severely impacted by Covid-19, with the immediate closure of so many tourism related operations,” he said.

“We know our Turangi locals will dig deep and support our business owners to come through this, and I think this initiative is a great jumpstart.”

He encouraged local residents to check the list of Turangi businesses trading at Level 3 before they went shopping.

Marketview figures show that in the year to March 2020, local spending across the district contributed 60 per cent of the total revenue through retail, accommodation, entertainment and other consumer spending.

The remaining 40 per cent was from a mix of domestic and international tourist spending. The same data shows that Taupō district residents spent $150m in retail purchases outside the district.

Locals can see which businesses are operating at various alert levels in the district at the ‘Love this Place’ Facebook page (www.facebook.com/LoveThisPlaceTaupoDistrict) from today (Tuesday, April 28).

Businesses are encouraged to register their details to be listed as trading during Level 3 by completing the form on the Facebook page and next week, the ‘Love this Place’ team will be launching a number of activities and promotions that the whole family can take part in, like treasure hunts and shopping incentives, said project coordinator Andrea McLaren.

Locals keen to be part of ‘Love this Place’ can share their story on Facebook by tagging @LoveThisPlaceTaupoDistrict.

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1625 days ago

Need advice on a DIY fail or reno dilemma?

Jo Haywood Reporter from Homed

Hey neighbours, how's lockdown life treating you? If you've been trying to sort some long overdue DIY jobs around the home, with mixed results, help is at hand. 

Have you already had a DIY disaster you need to fix, or are you looking to do some home improvements but don't where … View more
Hey neighbours, how's lockdown life treating you? If you've been trying to sort some long overdue DIY jobs around the home, with mixed results, help is at hand. 

Have you already had a DIY disaster you need to fix, or are you looking to do some home improvements but don't where where to start? Email homed@stuff.co.nz to tell us all about it - including photos if you can - and we'll ask our experts for their advice on how you can fix things up, or where to start with your project. 

So whether you have a interiors design dilemma, a need for some home DIY know how, bigger plans for a reno you'd like an expert opinion on, or even a tough cleaning problem you want cleared up, we'll get you some answers. What are you waiting for? Email your questions and photos to homed@stuff.co.nz and we'll get back to you.

Please note: We are unable to recommend specific businesses or tradespeople to provide quotes etc.

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1624 days ago

New Zealand is now at Alert Level 3

New Zealand Government

Alert Level 3 is a milestone in our struggle against COVID-19. We are all responsible for what happens next. Every contact we make is a chance for the virus to spread.

We could easily lose what we have gained. Our success, or failure, depends on the decisions that we’ll each make alone – … View more
Alert Level 3 is a milestone in our struggle against COVID-19. We are all responsible for what happens next. Every contact we make is a chance for the virus to spread.

We could easily lose what we have gained. Our success, or failure, depends on the decisions that we’ll each make alone – but which in turn – will affect all of us.

Two weeks then a review
• On 11 May, we will review our progress and decide if we can safely continue to step down restrictions, or if more measures are required to protect us all.
• So the decisions we each make now, matter. Because every interaction we have is an opportunity for the virus to spread.

Keeping safe at Alert Level 3
• At Alert Level 3, the best way to keep those around you safe, is by keeping your bubble small. Interact with as few people as possible. Less people equals less risk. And continue to stay at home whenever you can.
• We should each be making the minimal number of trips. Be sure to stay local, and only make necessary trips.
• And importantly, work and learn from home if you can.

Let’s do this
We’re a team of 5 million. Formidable. And we can do this.
So thank you New Zealand for making the right decisions, when it really counts.
Find out more

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1629 days ago

Hunting rules relaxed under Alert Level 3

Chris Marshall Reporter from Taupō Times

The government has moved to placate mounting pressure from gun groups, hunting associations and rural communities to allow some hunting when the country moves to Covid-19 Alert Level 3.
Hunters will be able to hunt on private land with special restrictions but not on public conservation land, Sport… View more
The government has moved to placate mounting pressure from gun groups, hunting associations and rural communities to allow some hunting when the country moves to Covid-19 Alert Level 3.
Hunters will be able to hunt on private land with special restrictions but not on public conservation land, Sport and Recreation Minister Grant Robertson and Minister of Conservation Eugenie Sage announced on Thursday (April 23).

Hunting has not been allowed under Alert Level 4, but a shift to Level 3 next Tuesday morning will mean hunters can once again hunt locally - as long as they have the landholder’s permission and stick to the rules.
At a press conference last week Robertson said restrictions on hunting were under review.

In a press release today he said the easing of rules would strike a balance by allowing hunting in a limited way.

“We know that hunting is an important part of life for many New Zealanders, and in some cases a critical source of food. At Level 3 we also need to minimise the risk of losing the great progress we’ve made together in Alert Level 4 in stamping out the virus.”

Hunting on foot on private land would be allowed under Alert Level 3, so long as hunters stayed within their region and their bubble. Overnight trips were not.

“The use of quad bikes, off-road bikes, helicopters and other motorised vehicles is prohibited.”

Conservation Minister Eugenie Sage said hunting on public conservation land was not allowed until a decision had been made for a return to Alert Level 2.

“While many hunters may want to head to popular spots on public land to target the last stag of the roar, under Alert Level 3 hunting on public conservation land will remain off limits.

“This helps with consistency across walking and mountain biking where people must stay local, rather than travelling to backcountry conservation land.

“The start of the duck hunting season is being postponed from May 2 to start on the second weekend after the date that is decided for when New Zealand moves to Alert Level 2. The season will also end later,” she said.

The two-week delay to the start of the season following any move to Level 2 was determined in consultation with the New Zealand Fish and Game Council

“All New Zealanders will still have an opportunity to hunt ducks, at the same time, once we return to Alert Level 2,” said Sage.

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1626 days ago

Online Night School classes at Fraserace.

Fraser High School

Fraser High School is the hub of Adult Learning in Hamilton and the Waikato district.

New online classes have been added to our Adult and Community Education programme. Our tutors will support you to get connected, get learning and enjoy a whole new adventure.

You can look, book and pay … View more
Fraser High School is the hub of Adult Learning in Hamilton and the Waikato district.

New online classes have been added to our Adult and Community Education programme. Our tutors will support you to get connected, get learning and enjoy a whole new adventure.

You can look, book and pay online at www.fraserace.ac.nz or just email us on comed@fraser.school.nz Easy! Very easy!
Learn More

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1627 days ago

Stories from the ANZACs

ANZAC Day will be marked a little differently this year. We’ll be warm and cosy at home and The Last Post won’t start until you press play. But one thing will be the same – remembrance.

To help us remember those who served and understand what ‘to serve’ meant, … View more
ANZAC Day will be marked a little differently this year. We’ll be warm and cosy at home and The Last Post won’t start until you press play. But one thing will be the same – remembrance.

To help us remember those who served and understand what ‘to serve’ meant, Ryman recorded their ANZAC resident’s stories. Some are humorous, others are tragic and eye-opening, but they all offer insight into the courage, bravery, and determination required to serve.

What better way to remember than to read the memories of those who were there?
Learn more

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1627 days ago

Support Stuff’s local and national news teams

The Team Reporter from Stuff

For over 150 years, the news and information we uncover and provide have relied on your support, either through subscription to our newspapers, consuming news via our online sites, or indirectly through the patronage you provide to those who advertise with us.  

Now there’s a … View more
For over 150 years, the news and information we uncover and provide have relied on your support, either through subscription to our newspapers, consuming news via our online sites, or indirectly through the patronage you provide to those who advertise with us.  

Now there’s a new way you can support us: by making direct financial contributions to help power our news teams up and down the country. 

Make a contribution and you’ll help our journalists continue to do what they do best: provide our readers with trustworthy, accurate and reliable news.
Contribute here

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1628 days ago

Kids teaching pets tricks

Diana from Matamata

Something to entertain the kids and the pets!

www.facebook.com...

Hopefully that link will work. The organiser is a friend in the BOP. If the link doesn't work, please get in touch with Bex Tasker on FB, or if you can't find her, contact me.

Enjoy!

1628 days ago

Support local businesses, become a Mighty Local

Mighty Local

Introducing Mighty Local – our new space where we proudly promote and profile everything local across the Mighty Waikato region.

Here we will be sharing how you can support local Waikato businesses during COVID-19 by getting your fav foods delivered and keeping up your fitness routines with … View more
Introducing Mighty Local – our new space where we proudly promote and profile everything local across the Mighty Waikato region.

Here we will be sharing how you can support local Waikato businesses during COVID-19 by getting your fav foods delivered and keeping up your fitness routines with local gyms and studios. You’ll also be able to explore some of our fabulous Waikato destinations and attractions virtually and be entertained online by Waikato artists and performers.

He waka eke noa: we are all in this together. #mightylocal
Find out more

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1628 days ago

Anzac Day 2020: Cut-out poppy for your Bubble

Neighbourly.co.nz

Anzac Day is being celebrated differently this year, with virtual services and online events, all from our own living rooms, balconies and driveways. Download this pdf of a poppy, by award-winning illustrator Sharon Murdoch, to print off and stick in a front window - To show that even in lockdown, … View moreAnzac Day is being celebrated differently this year, with virtual services and online events, all from our own living rooms, balconies and driveways. Download this pdf of a poppy, by award-winning illustrator Sharon Murdoch, to print off and stick in a front window - To show that even in lockdown, in our small bubbles, we shall not forget. That we can still say thank you for the sacrifices, we can still pay tribute to the bravery of so many.

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1630 days ago

First-home buyers - new or pre-loved?

Colleen Hawkes Reporter from Homed

As a first-home buyer it pays to weigh up your options to see whether buying new or buying 'character' is best for you.

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1629 days ago

Aiden to mark Anzac Day in Motuoapa

Chris Marshall Reporter from Taupō Times

Teenage trumpeter Aiden West is keen to sound the Last Post on Anzac day morning (Saturday, April 25) in the Lake Taupō settlement of Motuoapa.
But there’s some discussion around the time and chain of command.
“Mum wants me to do it at 6am,” he said over the phone on Thursday, hinting at … View more
Teenage trumpeter Aiden West is keen to sound the Last Post on Anzac day morning (Saturday, April 25) in the Lake Taupō settlement of Motuoapa.
But there’s some discussion around the time and chain of command.
“Mum wants me to do it at 6am,” he said over the phone on Thursday, hinting at room for negotiation.
But a muffled sentence or two in the background is followed with: “And Dad’s telling me I’m doing it at 6am.”
Settled then, outside the house on Kahotea Place, 6am.
I suggest before he follows with the Rouse he makes sure his younger sister is up in order to read the Ode of Remembrance.
It’s the sort of sharing that meets with his approval.
“That’s a good idea.”
West has built on the preparation he put in for playing the Last Post at Taupō’s mid morning civic service in 2019, for which in the end he served a backup role.
The thirteen year old, who is in his first year at Tauhara College, has been playing the trumpet since he was six and is a keen participant in the school’s stage band and the long running interschool Taupō Youth Windband.
He was “pretty sure” he was doing grade five Trinity College music exams in October this year - like everything else these are a little up in the air - and is sure the neighbours will have heard his practices.
“It’s the least soundproof house in all of existence.”
West’s will be one of a number of low-key initiatives to commemorate the day as New Zealanders are being encouraged by the Ministry of Culture and Heritage to gather as virtual communities.
The ministry said this would be the first time since Anzac services began in 1916 the day would not be marked with public services and gatherings at war memorials nationwide, as all
– including those at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park and the Atatürk Memorial in Wellington – had been cancelled as part of the campaign against the spread of Covid-19.
“Despite the restrictions in place, we know New Zealanders will still want to take the time to remember and acknowledge all those who have served or continue to serve our country in times of conflict, peacekeeping and disaster relief,” said Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage chief executive Bernadette Cavanagh.
She urged people to get involved with some of the initiatives that organisations had come up with to allow New Zealanders to connect with the past, and each other.
Opportunities include:
Join the New Zealand Defence Force and RSA's #StandAtDawn campaign, RNZ National will broadcast a dawn service at 6am in support of this campaign.
Make a poppy or a wreath to add to your window or letterbox.
Lay a virtual poppy at Auckland Museum’s Online Cenotaph for a loved one or for one of more than 235,000 New Zealand service men and women represented there.
Watch Anzac Day 2020 – Stories of Remembrance at 11am on TVNZ 1 or TVNZ On Demand.
Watch two new NZ On Air-funded documentaries exploring the military history shared between New Zealand and the Pacific: Paradise Soldiers (TVNZ 1 8.55am) and Coastwatchers – Operation Pacific (TVNZ 1 10.10am) also at TVNZ On Demand.
Watch a live broadcast of the Royal New Zealand Ballet’s Anzac Salute on Facebook. It features two works commissioned to mark the centenary of the Gallipoli landings in 2015 - Andrew Simmon’s Dear Horizon and Neil Ieremia’s Passchendaele.
Bake some Anzac cookies with the kids or listen to David Hill’s The Red Poppy or Feana Tu’akoi’s Lest we Forget on RNZ Storytime.
Learn more about New Zealand’s experiences of war and its far-reaching impacts on those who served, families, communities and the nation at NZHistory.govt.nz.

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1629 days ago

A note from Noel Leeming

Noel Leeming

We’ve been privileged to help Kiwis get the essentials needed to work, study, and stay connected. It’s led to huge demand and some orders are taking longer to deliver. We’d really like to apologise to the customers who’ve experienced these delays.

To help get it sorted faster we’ve … View more
We’ve been privileged to help Kiwis get the essentials needed to work, study, and stay connected. It’s led to huge demand and some orders are taking longer to deliver. We’d really like to apologise to the customers who’ve experienced these delays.

To help get it sorted faster we’ve quadrupled our Customer Care team, and expanded our order fulfilment network so we can get thousands more orders delivered each day. Plus our remote Tech Solutions service will be free until May 11 to lend customers a hand with technology advice or setting up.

Thanks for your patience, everyone. We’re getting there.
Find out more

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