2143 days ago

Trading/swapping/gifting during lockdown.

Gina from Swannanoa - Ohoka

Hi everyone, I hope everyone is staying safe and well in their 'bubbles' during this uncertain time.
Our grandparents and for some of you, parents, endured uncertain and far more dangerous times during WW2. Rationing of everything, the' make do and mend' mantra that one was constantly reminded to do, 'dig for victory' where flower gardens and grass in parks and private gardens was given over to produce veggies. We are by no means at any of those stages where we dont have access to food, its just the getting it thats the problem for some. Which brings me to my point, one which i struggle with personally but its in the best interests of everyone and that is trading, swapping, gifting , whatever you like to call it, of excess fruit and veggies, toys, puzzles, etc etc. While its a lovely kind thought to share with others, it also brings about the possibility of sharing the very thing we're trying to eliminate, the virus. We have been told to socially distance ourselves from others , to sanitise, wash our hands, practice good cough and sneeze etiquette. If we fail to isolate to minimise the transference of this virus we will be in lockdown for longer. So please, please please, stay at home in safety with your families, dont go out to pick up items from others, dont put essential service personnel in danger by having an accident while you're out and about because youre desperate for ping-pong balls or veggie seedlings. Those things can wait. Order online. There are many more websites that are opening up to provide essential items. Phone those who dont have the internet and place an order for what they need for them perhaps. Go home, stay home and do your bit by helping everyone else stay safe too. Together we can all beat this!

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4 days ago

Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙

One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.

So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?

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Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
  • 58.9% Yes, supporting people is important!
    58.9% Complete
  • 26.1% No, individuals should take responsibility
    26.1% Complete
  • 15% ... It is complicated
    15% Complete
839 votes
11 days ago

Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!

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Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.

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5 days ago

A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!

If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?

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