Milder Omicron A Major Health Issue
Don't take the foot off the pedal just yet in NZ in the war against Covid 19.
Omicron is less severe than other variants including Delta but IT IS NOT MILD and its spread is far greater than any other variant thus far.
In the USA, Omicron death toll has surpassed the highest 7-days average of the more severe Delta variant, reaching so far over 2500 deaths in a single day.
From Russia to Brazil record Covid case numbers are being produced as the Omicron variant continues to spread world-wide just as it is in New Zealand.
On January 28 - just a week ago - Australia had nearly 100 deaths in their deadliest ever Covid day so far. That is almost twice as many as those who have died in over two years of Covid in NZ.
Of course the virus targets the unvaccinated and not fully vaccinated so kids under 5 are highly vulnerable and while Cuba has vaccinated 2-4 year olds, the USA and China among other countries are gearing up to make this happen.
Poll: Should we ditch daylight saving? 🕰️
First introduced in New Zealand in 1927 with the passing of the Summer Time Act, it's what we know as 'Daylight Saving' and this year it ends on the first Sunday in April.
While we do get to sleep in this time around, some people would like to scrap the clock tinkering for good.
And why? Some evidence suggests the time changes are bad for our health as they mess with sleep patterns leading to short-term fatigue and affecting mood. Meanwhile the hour change is frustrating for farmers and a nightmare for getting the littlies to sleep. But what's your take?
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39.7% Yes - get rid of the clock changes
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58.5% No, I enjoy it
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1.8% Other - I'll share below
Alan and Hazel Kerr share Senior New Zealander of the Year Award 2026
Dr Alan and Hazel Kerr describe themselves as ‘just ordinary old Kiwis’, despite being named as the 2026 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealanders of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
The amazing couple prompted a standing ovation at a star-studded Auckland event which recognised their tireless efforts, with Alan travelling to and from Gaza and the West Bank 40 times to help children over 20 years, and Hazel travelling 20 times.
Click read more to find out more.
We're taking the bus!
The number of Wellingtonians taking the bus and train rose by 3% last week compared to the same time last year, according to Metlink.
Not surprising given petrol prices at the moment. But if you're considering giving up your car commute for a leisurely bus ride in the mornings, it would be worth it.
It's about to get even easier: In April, e-pay will be launched, meaning you can tap on with your credit cards as well as smart devices.
It's better on the environment too: With most Metlink trains running on electricity, 25% of the bus fleet being EV’s and the Ika Rere electric ferry, Metlink is able to move more people using less fuel than any other transport option.
With fuel costs so high, it's a good idea to jump on board if you can. If you've become a public transport convert recently, how have you found it?
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