Guide dog learns the art of social distancing
Getting out and about in Wellington is a little different this year with people having to adapt to social distancing. But it’s not just humans learning new norms.
Guide dog Pedro has also had to learn some new rules.
Genevieve McLauchlan, an Upper Hutt local, gets around in a motorised wheelchair with the support of Pedro.
Genevieve has Cerebral Palsy and vision loss as the result of an injury, so relies on Pedro’s guidance.
She is grateful for how Pedro quickly learned to move away from people and social distance. Pedro has also learned to work with Genevieve’s wheelchair. When she was first paired with a dog in 1998 by Blind Low Vision NZ (formerly The Blind Foundation), it was the first time in New Zealand, possibly the world, that a guide dog was working alongside a wheelchair.
Don't forget the Blind Week Appeal is on October 16 and 17.
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.