254 days ago

My latest book MITCH

Owen from Central Hawkes Bay District

In a world torn by survival and impossible choices, seventeen-year-old Mitch faces a life-defining moment. Caught stealing food for his struggling family, he stands in court, staring down two stark options: a life of imprisonment in Van Diemen's Land or the uncertain promise of the Queen's shilling.

Choosing the latter, Mitch's journey with the 58th Regiment of Foot begins. Taking him from the training grounds of Ireland to the perilous encounters with bushwhackers in Rio, while on a convict-laden ship bound for Australia. His fate turns unexpectedly, leading him to the front lines of the First New Zealand War of 1845. Amid the fierce battles of Kororāreka, Puketutu, Ōhaeawai, and the siege of Ruapekapeka, he navigates a world of cultural clashes and relentless conflict. Here, Mitch encounters a young Māori woman whose courage and resilience irrevocably changes his life.

Mitch" is a gripping tale of transformation, resilience, and the enduring power of love. With a masterful blend of historical events and vivid imagination, this novel plunges readers into the heart of 19th-century struggles and triumphs, leaving them enthralled by Mitch's quest for identity and belonging.

Price: $10

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More messages from your neighbours
1 day ago

Poll: Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

There’s growing debate about whether New Zealand’s extended Christmas break (and the slowdown that comes with it) affects productivity.

Tracy Watkins has weighed in ... now it’s your turn. What’s your take? 🤔

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Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝
  • 71.6% We work hard, we deserve a break!
    71.6% Complete
  • 18% Hmm, maybe?
    18% Complete
  • 10.4% Yes!
    10.4% Complete
328 votes
6 days ago

A riddle to start the festive season 🌲🎁🌟

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

I'm a fruit. If you take away my first letter, I'm a crime. If you take away my first two letters, I'm an animal. If you take away my first and last letter, I'm a form of music. What am I?

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!

Want to stop seeing these in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.

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8 days ago

Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.

We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?

Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.

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Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
  • 53.2% Yes
    53.2% Complete
  • 46.8% No
    46.8% Complete
2208 votes