1049 days ago

Pictures show aftermath of large Wānaka scrub fire

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Otago News

A large scrub fire near Wānaka is under control, but crews remain on site to dampen down hotspots.

At its height, eight helicopters were used to fight the blaze, which burnt through 200 hectares of regenerating bush over the weekend. Crews and helicopters were deployed again on Monday to ensure the fire was contained.

Eight crews coupled with two helicopters worked on Monday to dampen hotspots in an area covering about 280ha, with a perimeter of just over 7 kilometres, a Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokeswoman said.

Pene Hunt, who co-manages Glendhu Bay Motor Camp, said at times they could see flames from the camp.

"It was a frightening scene to see."

The cause of the fire has yet to be determined.

More messages from your neighbours
5 days ago

What's your favourite tomato recipe?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.

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2 days ago

Warnings about scams

The Team from New Zealand Police

This Fraud Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone to stay sharp and look out for the warning signs of scams to stop them before they start.

Here’s what to watch out for:
🔍 Unrealistic offers or promises of easy money that are too good to be true
🔍 Pressure tactics: Scammers may rush or threaten you to act immediately.
🔍 Requests for personal info: Be cautious if you’re asked for bank details, passwords, or sensitive information.
🔍 Unusual payment methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
🔍 Unverified contacts: Emails, calls, or messages from unknown or suspicious sources.

How to protect yourself:
✅ Stop and think before sharing personal details or making payments.
✅ Don't click on any links until you know that it is safe.
✅ Verify the source: Contact the organisation directly using official channels.
✅ If something’s not right, it's OK to hang up, walk away, ignore it and move on.

If you wish to report a scam, contact Police on 105 or report it online via 105.police.govt.nz/use-105.

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3 days ago

Tactile texture

Resene

Welcome texture into your room by using leftover Resene Anaglypta wallpaper to accentuate furniture and décor items. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions. Find out more

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