1681 days ago

Therapy dog Teddy takes lead at Pinehaven School

Reporter Community News

Learning is a lot more fun for students at Pinehaven School, thanks to their special helper Teddy the spoodle.
Teddy is a therapy dog, which means he helps people who are feeling sad or stressed by keeping them company and providing plenty of cuddles.
He visits the Upper Hutt school three mornings a week, but Kea Kids News reporter Mark Hayward, 9, says he gives more than just hugs. He also helps with maths games, reading and is even the playground monitor.

More messages from your neighbours
1 day ago

Poll: Should we ditch daylight saving? 🕰️

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

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?

Image
Should we ditch daylight saving? 🕰️
  • 40.5% Yes - get rid of the clock changes
    40.5% Complete
  • 57.6% No, I enjoy it
    57.6% Complete
  • 1.9% Other - I'll share below
    1.9% Complete
1027 votes
4 hours ago

Alan and Hazel Kerr share Senior New Zealander of the Year Award 2026

Shona McFarlane Retirement Village

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.

Image
2 days ago

We're taking the bus!

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

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?

Image