Dragging The Vaccination Chain
It seems that the Hutt Valley along with the rest of the Wellington region are dragging behind most of the rest of NZ with Covid vaccinations despite easy access to vaccination centres.
The target in NZ for those eligible to be vaccinated is in excess of 90% fully vaccinated by Xmas but the Wellington region is currently at 36.5% fully vaccinated and this compares with our nearest neighbours Wairarapa 45% and Nelson/Marlborough (Tasman) 47%.
We need to broach 90% NZ-wide to be in a position to open up to the world as a reference to the mingling of those vaccinated with other vaccinated people.
It seems that children aged 5-11 will soon be added to those needing to be vaccinated. Perhaps requiring only one innoculation instead of two.
It seems that at least those aged 65-plus and those health compromised will require another booster vaccination next year.
If more variants of Covid emerge it could mean annual vaccinations for all just like the annual influenza vaccinations.
Without doubt there will be restrictions on those not vaccinated and a covid vaccination passport and/or phone ap will be required for proof on vaccination for entry to places and events and travel.
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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