Hunter Valley, Wanaka

5 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 … View more
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.

Image
11 hours ago

Ryman Village Open Days

The Team from Ryman Healthcare

Wednesday 10 December, 10am - 3pm

Join us this Wednesday and explore our lifestyle, show homes and amenities.

More than just a place to live, Ryman villages are places where friendships grow, hobbies flourish and a genuine sense of community thrives.

The best way is to experience it for … View more
Wednesday 10 December, 10am - 3pm

Join us this Wednesday and explore our lifestyle, show homes and amenities.

More than just a place to live, Ryman villages are places where friendships grow, hobbies flourish and a genuine sense of community thrives.

The best way is to experience it for yourself. No appointment necessary!
Find out more

Image
7 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 … View more
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.

Image
Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
  • 53.2% Yes
    53.2% Complete
  • 46.8% No
    46.8% Complete
2130 votes
1 day ago

Roadworks on SH1 between Hampton Downs and Rangiriri

NZ Transport Agency (NZTA)

From 7 to 18 December, there will be night-time closures on SH1 between Hampton Downs and Rangiriri (Sundays to Thursdays, 9pm to 5am) to carry out wire rope barrier maintenance. Please expect delays when travelling through this area. Find out more

Image
19 days ago

Think you can spot a scam from a mile away?

The Team from Netsafe

You might be surprised. Scammers are getting slicker, sneakier, and a whole lot more convincing, and they’re targeting everyone from students to grandparents.

Before you brush it off with “I’d never fall for that,” give your scam radar a quick tune-up! Test yourself with Netsafe’s fun … View more
You might be surprised. Scammers are getting slicker, sneakier, and a whole lot more convincing, and they’re targeting everyone from students to grandparents.

Before you brush it off with “I’d never fall for that,” give your scam radar a quick tune-up! Test yourself with Netsafe’s fun new Scam Spotting Quiz or try our online module for even more skill-building.

Scams can catch anyone — even the careful ones.
Keep your wits (and your wallet) about you!

Image
1 day ago

Night-time roadworks on SH16

NZ Transport Agency (NZTA)

From 23 November to 17 December, stop/go traffic management will be in several locations on SH16 between Mabbett Lane and Restall Road (Sundays to Thursdays, 9pm to 5am).

Works will include chipsealing and stormwater improvements. There may be delays to your journey when travelling through the … View more
From 23 November to 17 December, stop/go traffic management will be in several locations on SH16 between Mabbett Lane and Restall Road (Sundays to Thursdays, 9pm to 5am).

Works will include chipsealing and stormwater improvements. There may be delays to your journey when travelling through the area. Click to find out more.
Find out more

Image
14 days ago

Some Choice News!

Kia pai from Sharing the Good Stuff

Many New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.

Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours … View more
Many New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.

Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours still get to enjoy these beautiful butterflies in their own backyards.

Thinking about planting something to invite more butterflies, bees, and birds into your garden?

Thanks for your mahi, Alan! We hope this brings a smile!

Image
1 day ago

NZCCM Massage and English Programmes

The Team from New Zealand College of Chinese Medicine

The New Zealand College of Chinese Medicine (NZCCM) offers industry-focused Massage and English programmes that prepare students for professional practice.

Students gain strong Anatomy and Physiology knowledge, hands-on experience in the student clinic, and pathways into health and wellbeing … View more
The New Zealand College of Chinese Medicine (NZCCM) offers industry-focused Massage and English programmes that prepare students for professional practice.

Students gain strong Anatomy and Physiology knowledge, hands-on experience in the student clinic, and pathways into health and wellbeing careers. NZCCM actively incorporates tikanga Māori and Te Ao Māori, partnering with local marae for cultural learning and community treatments.

As Auckland’s only provider of Massage diplomas, NZCCM is enrolling now for February 2026 Programmes include the Level 5 Wellness and Relaxation Massage Diploma and the Level 6 Remedial Massage Diploma, both NZQA-approved with intensive block courses. NZCCM also offers NZCEL Level 4 for academic English preparation.

Open Days will be held on 12 December and 23 January.
Contact: 09 580 2376 or auck@chinesemedicine.ac.nz
.
Find out more

Image
12 days ago

PAINT IT ORANGE

Resene

Paint it Orange - Arthritis - 1st - 29th November 2025

Paint it orange with Resene for Arthritis NZ!

Buy any orange Resene testpot 60 ml at your local Resene owned ColorShop in November and Resene will donate $1 to Arthritis NZ!

The more orange testpots you buy, the more will be donated.
Find out more

Image
2 days ago

Roadworks on Great South Road, Bombay

NZ Transport Agency (NZTA)

From late November 2025 to February 2026 there will be roadworks on Great South Road near SH1 Bombay interchange.
 
Works will include weigh plate and electronic sign installation at separate locations as part of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Programme. 
 
Find out how it will affect your … View more
From late November 2025 to February 2026 there will be roadworks on Great South Road near SH1 Bombay interchange.
 
Works will include weigh plate and electronic sign installation at separate locations as part of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Programme. 
 
Find out how it will affect your journey through the area.
Find out more

Image
17 days ago

Poll: What’s the top scam right now?

The Team from Netsafe

💸💸💸 Before you get caught, test your scam knowledge with Netsafe’s fun new Scam Spotting Quiz or try our online module for even more skill-building.

Image
What’s the top scam right now?
  • 65.5% Online shopping
    65.5% Complete
  • 19.2% Romance
    19.2% Complete
  • 15.3% The “free BBQ if you fill out a survey” classic
    15.3% Complete
426 votes
3 days ago

Upper Hutt Santa Parade Returns!

The Team from Upper Hutt City Council

Mark your calendars! The Upper Hutt Santa Parade is back this Christmas. Come join the fun as the community’s favourite Christmas movie comes alive in a magical display of floats, music, and festive cheer.

Date: Sunday 14 December 2025
Time: 3PM | Rain or shine
Location: Main Street, Upper … View more
Mark your calendars! The Upper Hutt Santa Parade is back this Christmas. Come join the fun as the community’s favourite Christmas movie comes alive in a magical display of floats, music, and festive cheer.

Date: Sunday 14 December 2025
Time: 3PM | Rain or shine
Location: Main Street, Upper Hutt
Find out more

Image
33 days ago

Some Choice News!

Kia pai from Sharing the Good Stuff

Did you know there’s a global shortage of sweet pea seeds?

In Aotearoa New Zealand, dedicated gardeners are working to revive authentic sweet pea varieties and keep their beauty blooming for generations to come 🌸🪻🌻

Read more about their efforts here.

We hope this brings a smile!

Image
3 days ago

Discover Waterford Village

Oceania Waterford Village

At Waterford, life feels wonderfully effortless. Enjoy modern apartment living, peaceful harbour views and a warm, welcoming community. With cafés, boardwalks and the ferry close by, everything you love is within easy reach. Discover a lifestyle that brings calm, connection and a real sense of … View moreAt Waterford, life feels wonderfully effortless. Enjoy modern apartment living, peaceful harbour views and a warm, welcoming community. With cafés, boardwalks and the ferry close by, everything you love is within easy reach. Discover a lifestyle that brings calm, connection and a real sense of home. Learn More

Image
21 days ago

⚠️ Fraud Awareness Week: Shop Smart and Stay Scam-Safe

The Team from Netsafe

Scams can happen to anyone, especially during Black Friday and Cyber Monday when online shopping increases. Scammers use trust, hope and fear to get money or personal information:
TRUST: Pretending to be a courier, retailer, or bank.
HOPE: Offering fake “too good to miss” deals or miracle … View more
Scams can happen to anyone, especially during Black Friday and Cyber Monday when online shopping increases. Scammers use trust, hope and fear to get money or personal information:
TRUST: Pretending to be a courier, retailer, or bank.
HOPE: Offering fake “too good to miss” deals or miracle products.
FEAR: ‘Limited time deals’ messaging, fake ‘missed delivery’ updates

✋ Remember the SCAMS red flags:
Surprise contact
Control or pressure
Access to your device
Money request
Stop and seek support

If you think you’ve been scammed, stop contact, call your bank, and change your passwords.

Image
4 days ago

Making Hearing Easy in Kapiti

Triton Hearing Kapiti

At Triton Hearing Kapiti, you’ll find us on Amohia Street in a spacious, welcoming clinic with easy flat-access parking. Our friendly team supports the Kapiti community, providing expert care in a relaxed, lounge-style environment.

From routine hearing checks to advanced solutions, we ensure … View more
At Triton Hearing Kapiti, you’ll find us on Amohia Street in a spacious, welcoming clinic with easy flat-access parking. Our friendly team supports the Kapiti community, providing expert care in a relaxed, lounge-style environment.

From routine hearing checks to advanced solutions, we ensure every visit is simple and personalised. We love seeing clients reconnect with the sounds and moments they’ve been missing, whether it’s a loved one’s voice, music, or everyday life. Family-friendly and community focused, our Kapiti clinic makes hearing easy and enjoyable for everyone.
Find out more

Image
17 days ago

Some great news for the Great South ✈️✨

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Great South is set to receive $393,000 to boost its campaign encouraging Australian travellers to come over and explore the stunning Southern Way.

We want to know: How do you feel about highlighting our mountains and lakes to attract more visitors to the region?

Image
4 days ago

Riccarton landlord’s lucky catch!

Enviroflo

A local landlord in Riccarton https ://www.enviroflo.co.nz/ |booked what was meant to be a simple, routine CCTV drain check, | just a bit of peace of mind for a tidy, well-kept rental. But under that neat garden and solid paths, our camera told a different story…

We found several cracks and … View more
A local landlord in Riccarton https ://www.enviroflo.co.nz/ |booked what was meant to be a simple, routine CCTV drain check, | just a bit of peace of mind for a tidy, well-kept rental. But under that neat garden and solid paths, our camera told a different story…

We found several cracks and offsets in the old ceramic drain lines, likely hidden damage from the 2010–2011 quakes. Nothing too dramatic yet, but it was only a matter of time before things got messy.

Luckily, the property still had an EQC (now Natural Hazards Commission) claim on record. Our team stepped in to help the owner with the process, and before long, the repairs were fully approved and sorted at no extra cost to them.

We replaced the damaged sections, tidied everything up, and left both the tenant and landlord relieved they’d caught the problem early.

Moral of the story: sometimes a “routine check” can save you a lot of stress (and cash) down the line!

Have you claimed your free drain check with Enviroflo yet?
Find out more

Image
26 days ago

Tackling Illegal Hunting in Southland

The Team from Southern District Police

Southland Police are teaming up with the Department of Conservation (DOC) and farmers to target illegal hunting and trespassing in the Mid Dome Conservation Area.

‘The Mid Dome Poaching Project’ brings puts poachers in the spotlight and focuses on educating hunters, in order to protect … View more
Southland Police are teaming up with the Department of Conservation (DOC) and farmers to target illegal hunting and trespassing in the Mid Dome Conservation Area.

‘The Mid Dome Poaching Project’ brings puts poachers in the spotlight and focuses on educating hunters, in order to protect private property, and ensure the safety of hunters and farmers.

The Mid Dome area has seen a rise in illegal hunting activity since 2022, with hunters breaching DOC permit conditions and trespassing onto privately owned farmland.

Senior Sergeant Peter Graham says farmers bordering the Mid Dome Conservation Area have reported repeated incidents of poaching and safety concerns. “This project is about working together to educate hunters, enforce the law, and protect Southland’s rural communities,” says Senior Sergeant Peter Graham.

Department of Conservation Ranger, Jono Airey says hunting permits are issued for public conservation land only. “Hunters must respect boundaries and seek permission before crossing private property, were committed to working with police and landowners to ensure responsible hunting practices,” says Jono Airey.

To help Police identify and hold poachers accountable, we ask anybody to report suspicious behaviour to us, including suspicious vehicles or people in your local area.

If it is happening now, call 111.

If you are reporting information after the fact, call 105 or go online.

Image
4 days ago

A dream retirement at The Helier

Oceania The Helier

At The Helier, retirement feels like a fresh beginning. Light-filled modern apartments, thoughtfully designed spaces and a warm, welcoming community create a place where you can live well and stay connected. Enjoy a lifestyle that feels easy, uplifting and entirely your own, right in the heart of … View moreAt The Helier, retirement feels like a fresh beginning. Light-filled modern apartments, thoughtfully designed spaces and a warm, welcoming community create a place where you can live well and stay connected. Enjoy a lifestyle that feels easy, uplifting and entirely your own, right in the heart of the Bays. Learn more

Image
28 days ago

Queenstown Police appeal for information after commercial burglary

The Team from Southern District Police

Queenstown Police are appealing for information from the public following a burglary in Remarkables Park.

At around 2.15am today, Police were alerted to a burglary at a commercial premises at the intersection of Tex Smith Lane and Hawthorne Drive. A stolen vehicle has been used to unlawfully … View more
Queenstown Police are appealing for information from the public following a burglary in Remarkables Park.

At around 2.15am today, Police were alerted to a burglary at a commercial premises at the intersection of Tex Smith Lane and Hawthorne Drive. A stolen vehicle has been used to unlawfully enter the premises, where two offenders have taken around $900 of alcohol.
The offenders have fled the area, travelling to Kelvin Height Peninsula, where the vehicle was located abandoned and submerged in Lake Whakatipu at around 2.30am.

Police are working with Coastguard Queenstown and Queenstown Lakes District Council to retrieve the vehicle.

Enquiries into the incident are ongoing, and Police are appealing for information from the public to assist in our investigation.

Police would like to hear from anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage between 2am and 2.40am on Monday 10 November around the Remarkables Park and Kelvin Heights areas.

Police also ask anyone who may have any information about the incident to please contact us.

Members of the public may see an increase in reassurance patrols in and around commercial business areas while our enquiries are ongoing.

If you have any information, CCTV, or dashcam footage that may assist in our enquiries, please contact us online through 105.police.govt.nz, clicking "Update Report" or by calling 105.

Please use the reference number P064408540.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.

Image
5 days ago

‘Tis the Season to Show Off Your Trees Sparkle, NZ!

Space General

With Christmas fast approaching and trees beginning to twinkle in homes across New Zealand, we’re on the hunt for NZ’s Most Loved Christmas Tree!

Whether it’s bursting with colour, elegantly minimal, or filled with sentimental touches from years past, we want to see how Kiwis are spreading… View more
With Christmas fast approaching and trees beginning to twinkle in homes across New Zealand, we’re on the hunt for NZ’s Most Loved Christmas Tree!

Whether it’s bursting with colour, elegantly minimal, or filled with sentimental touches from years past, we want to see how Kiwis are spreading Christmas magic this season.

And now for the showstopper... 🌟
One tree will rise above them all, capturing the most public votes and the title of NZ’s Most Loved Christmas Tree 2025, along with the iPhone 17 Pro in Cosmic Orange, this year’s ultimate Christmas prize. 🎁🎄

To spread the cheer even further, four lucky trees will be chosen as Santa’s Lucky Trees, each receiving a $200 Space General Gift Voucher, the perfect way to add extra sparkle this season. 🎅🎁

Need a tree first? Explore our beautiful range here and start your Christmas magic!

📅 Public voting opens: 10 November 2025
⏳ Entries close: 17 December 2025

🎄 Winners unwrapped before Christmas — so strike a pose and share your festive masterpiece!
Enter Now

Image
32 days ago

Bright Spots winners!

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

A big congratulations to the 2025 Resene Bright Spots winners! We are proud to announce our ten winners who have all won a $250 Prezzy card and a $250 Resene Gift card!

Deepa Keenawinna - Lower Hutt (home crafts)
Slava Voronin - Kerikeri (blossoming tree)
Sam Holliday - Paraparaumu (hot pink … View more
A big congratulations to the 2025 Resene Bright Spots winners! We are proud to announce our ten winners who have all won a $250 Prezzy card and a $250 Resene Gift card!

Deepa Keenawinna - Lower Hutt (home crafts)
Slava Voronin - Kerikeri (blossoming tree)
Sam Holliday - Paraparaumu (hot pink outdoor chair)
Chris Carlyon - Waikanae (French Bulldog painting)
Joel Bradley - Auckland (Kea painting)
Jayne Walton - Rangiora (rainbow gate
Charmaine Macpherson - Cheviot (colourful bathtab)
Adele Whittaker - Auckland (school mural)
Karan Robson - Foxton Beach (blue backdoor)
Dave Bang - Levin (native bird mural)

Take a look at their wonderful colourful entries below. A huge thank you to everyone who shared a Bright Spot in their community this year; we have loved seeing the places in your neighbourhood that bring you joy.

5 days ago

Discover Life at Awatere Village

Oceania Awatere Village

Awatere is a vibrant, modern village where friendships are easy and everyday living feels inspired. Enjoy beautifully designed apartments, spaces to gather, and a community that supports doing more of what you love. From social clubs to quiet moments, it’s all here when you want it. Learn More

Image
63 days ago

Share your favourite raspberry recipe and win a copy of our mag!

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Love raspberries? We will give away free copies of the December 2025 issue to readers whose raspberry recipes are used in our magazine. To be in the running, make sure you email your family's favourite way enjoy raspberry (dessert, salad, jam main?!): mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, by October 24, … View moreLove raspberries? We will give away free copies of the December 2025 issue to readers whose raspberry recipes are used in our magazine. To be in the running, make sure you email your family's favourite way enjoy raspberry (dessert, salad, jam main?!): mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, by October 24, 2025.

Image
5 days ago

Donate plasma at 65 Constellation Drive

NZ Blood

The plasma in your blood can help treat over 50 different illnesses including cancer, kidney disease and severe burns, and make up to 11 lifesaving products. But demand is outpacing the supply. Luckily there’s a new place to donate plasma. NZ Blood’s new donor centre at 65 Constellation Drive View moreThe plasma in your blood can help treat over 50 different illnesses including cancer, kidney disease and severe burns, and make up to 11 lifesaving products. But demand is outpacing the supply. Luckily there’s a new place to donate plasma. NZ Blood’s new donor centre at 65 Constellation Drive on Auckland’s North Shore is now open.

Book now to donate at nzblood.co.nz/plasma, download the NZ Blood App or call 0800 448 325
Book to Donate

Image
46 days ago

Highway closure: Warning to motorists

The Team from Southern District Police

Southern District Police are urging motorists against non-essential travel, with debris blocking a number of roads.

⛔ State Highway 1 is being closed between Clinton and Milton
⛔ State Highway 8 is being closed between Lawrence
⛔ State Highway 1 – could also close due to weather.

View more
Southern District Police are urging motorists against non-essential travel, with debris blocking a number of roads.

⛔ State Highway 1 is being closed between Clinton and Milton
⛔ State Highway 8 is being closed between Lawrence
⛔ State Highway 1 – could also close due to weather.

Detective Sergeant Hamish Fraser says a number of power lines and trees have come down in strong winds. “We urge people to stay home, and not to travel unless you absolutely have to.

Anyone who has to drive should take extreme care.”

Image
5 days ago

Discover life at The Bayview

Oceania The Bayview Village

At The Bayview, stunning views and relaxed, resort-style living set the tone for every day. Light-filled apartments, friendly neighbours and quality amenities create a lifestyle that feels uplifting and beautifully easy. Make the most of Tauranga’s sunshine in a place designed for comfort and … View moreAt The Bayview, stunning views and relaxed, resort-style living set the tone for every day. Light-filled apartments, friendly neighbours and quality amenities create a lifestyle that feels uplifting and beautifully easy. Make the most of Tauranga’s sunshine in a place designed for comfort and connection. Learn More

Image
47 days ago

🔴🟠🟡 Weather warnings issued for much of the country

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Dangerous winds, and intense rain with thunderstorms are forecast in some regions of the country, with Red Warnings coming into effect from tomorrow morning. Please avoid non-essential travel tomorrow if you're located in a red-affected region, and be ready for power and communication outages.… View moreDangerous winds, and intense rain with thunderstorms are forecast in some regions of the country, with Red Warnings coming into effect from tomorrow morning. Please avoid non-essential travel tomorrow if you're located in a red-affected region, and be ready for power and communication outages.

Stay up to date with the latest weather information from MetService New Zealand. Pay attention to Watches and Warnings.

For advice on how to prepare for dangerous winds, please visit getready.govt.nz

Image
6 days ago

Crackerjack: your one stop Christmas shop!

Crackerjack

Get ready to jingle all the bargains! Crackerjack’s Christmas range is bursting with sweet treats, chocolates, fun pressies, toys for the little ones (and furry friends!), plus festive décor, accessories, stocking stuffers and Secret Santa winners!

Whether you’re looking for gifting inspo … View more
Get ready to jingle all the bargains! Crackerjack’s Christmas range is bursting with sweet treats, chocolates, fun pressies, toys for the little ones (and furry friends!), plus festive décor, accessories, stocking stuffers and Secret Santa winners!

Whether you’re looking for gifting inspo or filling the trolley with bargains this festive season, you’ll find it all in store and online at Crackerjack.
Find out more

Image
61 days ago

Some Choice News!

Kia pai from Sharing the Good Stuff

A trailblazing Māori scholar has finally received the recognition she deserves — nearly 100 years after her passing.

Mākereti Papakura, believed to be the first Indigenous woman to study at the University of Oxford, has been awarded a posthumous degree certificate.

Papakura sadly passed … View more
A trailblazing Māori scholar has finally received the recognition she deserves — nearly 100 years after her passing.

Mākereti Papakura, believed to be the first Indigenous woman to study at the University of Oxford, has been awarded a posthumous degree certificate.

Papakura sadly passed away in 1930, just weeks before she was due to present her thesis. Her research was later published as The Old-Time Māori — the first ethnographic study written by a Māori author.

We hope this brings a smile!

Image
Top