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Neighbourly members have spoken! We’re excited to announce the finalists for the National Prospa Local Business Hero competition, celebrating the most-loved local businesses across the country.
Have a read (click on their blue title to read the nomination) and vote for which business you think… View moreNeighbourly members have spoken! We’re excited to announce the finalists for the National Prospa Local Business Hero competition, celebrating the most-loved local businesses across the country.
Have a read (click on their blue title to read the nomination) and vote for which business you think should take the crown (and impressive prize pack!).
1) Robin Davis - Newcreation (Auckland)
Newcreation came to fruition to support their son’s leukaemia recovery, creating and selling beautiful artwork made from recycled materials. They also transform donated offcuts from local builders and businesses into meaningful creations and give them to the community for free, such as Mother’s Day decorations and stars for Matariki.
2) BFT Blockhouse Bay - Jess & Andy Hart (Auckland)
BFT Blockhouse Bay is a gym but has been described as a true community hub. The owners, Jess and Andy Hart, started as members themselves, so they understand what makes a great gym: a welcoming, supportive environment where mental and physical health are equally valued.
3) Settlers Way Country Store - Jackie Poole & Annie Blackmore (Northland)
Settlers Way Country Store is all about supporting local - selling locally made items, and locally-grown fresh produce that suit a wide range of tastes.
The owners, Jackie Poole & Annie Blackmore, get involved in community projects and run several of the local facebook pages helping keep the community connected.
4) Coronation Grill & Burger - Gaurav Kumar Arora (Waikato)
Coronation Grill and Burger Morrinsville is more than a local eatery, it’s a warm, welcoming hub known for both their hearty meals with fresh ingredients, and their warm hospitality. They love to support local events and their nomination reads ‘They’re a true hometown hero, and we’re lucky to have them.’
5) Robyn's Cottage - Robyn Parker (Bay of Plenty)
Robyn’s Cottage in Greerton, Tauranga is a vibrant haven for craft lovers, filled with threads, wool, patterns, and expert advice from the ever-helpful Robyn. Despite a tough year health-wise, she continues to brighten the community with her knowledge, embroidery services, and creative classes.
6) The Egg Project - Pip Chrystall (Manawatu - Wanganui Region)
Pip and the team from The Egg Project in Bainesse work tirelessly to collaborate with other farms and businesses to provide fresh farm to table eggs, milk, yoghurt, vegetables & other products with free delivery to your door. They help out with community-minded projects and their nomination says they are always cheerful and ready to help.
7) Sparkydaz Electrical & Security - Darren Evans (Hawkes Bay - Gisborne Region)
Sparky Daz Electrical and Security in Onekawa, Napier, stands out for their prompt, professional service and top-quality workmanship, no job too small. Darren and apprentice Kerrie go the extra mile every time.
8) Hire Smart / Smart Aggregates Quarry - Gareth Boyd, Grant Cudby & Grant McEwen (Taranaki)
Hire Smart / Smart Aggregates Quarry is a hardworking team with heart, going above and beyond for their community - from sponsoring local sports to quietly donating materials where needed. Their nominator wrote ‘Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. That's how I feel about the amazing team’
9) Trade School Kitchen - Hannah Drew-Crawshaw & the Team (Wellington region)
Trade School Kitchen in Naenae serves incredible food and drinks, but their true impact lies in their belief that everyone has something to offer - regardless of their past or present challenges. They provide training, employment, and a strong sense of community to help open doors and create new opportunities.
10) Toastie Lords - Taylor Hamilton (Nelson-Marlborough region)
Taylor Hamilton and the Toastie Lords team in Picton have built a beloved toasted sandwich spot from the ground up. With mouth-watering toasties and warm service, they are now famous with locals and cruise ship visitors alike.
11) Catnap Cafe - Nate & Alyssa (Canterbury region)
Catnap Cafe is run by Nate and Alyssa serving drinks and sweet treats with the opportunity to hang out with some feline friends. Working alongside Cat Rescue Christchurch they have rescued and rehomed nearly 200 cats, including special needs felines giving them second chances at a loving home.
12) Rangiora Wool Shop - Katherine McLeod (Canterbury)
Rangiora Wool Shop, led by Katherine McLeod and her team, is a warm, welcoming haven where creativity and community come together. With deep knowledge (and the finest merino!) they bring people together with the joy of creating.
13) Otago Vacuum Tank Services Ltd - Tim and Courtney Giddens (Otago-Southland region)
Otago Vacuum Tank Services (OVTS), led by Tim and Courtney Giddens, provide exceptional service but they also go above and beyond with a smile. From providing fresh water during landslides to organizing fun community events and helping local clubs, they are always ready to support the West Harbour community.
14) Blacks Road Grocer - Christopher Wilson (Otago region)
Blacks Road Grocer in Dunedin is a beloved local gem blending historic charm with a welcoming atmosphere. They offer house-made café treats, fresh local produce, and quality groceries, all served with friendly, attentive service.
I have heaps of Gardener magazines to give away. They are in really good condition so dont want to burn them. Having a de-clutter.
The answer is yes, it is illegal. And yet in New Zealand it's fairly common to see drivers hitting the road with their fog lights on when it's simply dark.
Those who have sat their written drivers test recently will be in the know, but be honest, did you know it was illegal?
The Cringeworthy crew is back, this time taking you to the nifty fifties!
Following the smash hits of Cringeworthy ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s, this show is a tribute to the music and culture of a time before the internet, TV, and... Ray Columbus!
Expect a toe-tapping mix of hits from Elvis, … View moreThe Cringeworthy crew is back, this time taking you to the nifty fifties!
Following the smash hits of Cringeworthy ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s, this show is a tribute to the music and culture of a time before the internet, TV, and... Ray Columbus!
Expect a toe-tapping mix of hits from Elvis, The Everly Brothers, Buddy Holly, and more—along with NZ’s very own Johnny Devlin. Complete with energetic dance numbers, witty banter, and retro costumes, it’s a rockin’ trip down memory lane!
Starring Andrea Sanders, Emma Katene, Devon Neiman, and Jared Pallesen.
With the US tariffs ramping up and the stock market taking a hit, many are noticing a change in their Kiwisaver amounts.
If you've had a peek at your Kiwisaver balance since, have you seen it decrease?
Air fryers have surged in popularity in recent years, with their uses expanding well beyond chips — from cooking meats to baking desserts.
Do you think the air fryer could ever replace the traditional oven?
The Government has rushed through changes to the Equal Pay Act that will now make it harder for workers to make claims of unfair pay based on gender discrimination.
The move will save billions for the government's budget but will scrap 33 existing pay equity claims affecting over 150,000 … View moreThe Government has rushed through changes to the Equal Pay Act that will now make it harder for workers to make claims of unfair pay based on gender discrimination.
The move will save billions for the government's budget but will scrap 33 existing pay equity claims affecting over 150,000 workers in traditionally female-dominated roles like teachers and support workers.
Do you support this new change?
Looking for a thoughtful gift for Mum? Give her something she'll enjoy all year round with a magazine subscription!
This Mother's Day, save up to 35% on subscriptions – perfect for Mum, Grandma, a special mother figure, or even as a treat for yourself!
Enjoy these 1-year … View moreLooking for a thoughtful gift for Mum? Give her something she'll enjoy all year round with a magazine subscription!
This Mother's Day, save up to 35% on subscriptions – perfect for Mum, Grandma, a special mother figure, or even as a treat for yourself!
Enjoy these 1-year subscriptions at unbeatable prices: NZ Gardener for $79 (was $106.80), NZ House & Garden for $99 (was $132), and TV Guide for $119 (was $166.40).
Whether she’s passionate about gardening, inspired by beautiful homes, or loves to keep up with the latest entertainment, you’ll find the perfect match at Mags4Gifts.co.nz.
Don't miss out – shop now and make her day unforgettable!
From the team at Mags4Gifts
There have been hundreds of brilliant entries from around New Zealand for local businesses; but have we received yours yet?
Make sure you share a few words about your favourite local to give them a chance to be this year's Prospa Local Business Hero because it's the LAST WEEK TO … View moreThere have been hundreds of brilliant entries from around New Zealand for local businesses; but have we received yours yet?
Make sure you share a few words about your favourite local to give them a chance to be this year's Prospa Local Business Hero because it's the LAST WEEK TO NOMINATE! It'll only take you a couple of minutes and they could win a prize package worth over $30,000! And you could win great prizes too.
Nominate a business making an impact in your community now.
A Tauranga man has filed a complaint with the Commerce Commission, claiming that due to dynamic pricing, it’s cheaper for him to fly to Los Angeles than to book a flight for his daughter from Tauranga to Wellington.
Do you think their pricing needs addressed to encourage more people to fly?
Looking for a thoughtful gift for Mum? Give her something she'll enjoy all year round with a magazine subscription!
This Mother's Day, save up to 35% on subscriptions – perfect for Mum, Grandma, a special mother figure, or even as a treat for yourself!
Enjoy these 1-year … View moreLooking for a thoughtful gift for Mum? Give her something she'll enjoy all year round with a magazine subscription!
This Mother's Day, save up to 35% on subscriptions – perfect for Mum, Grandma, a special mother figure, or even as a treat for yourself!
Enjoy these 1-year subscriptions at unbeatable prices: NZ Gardener for $79 (was $106.80), NZ House & Garden for $99 (was $132), and TV Guide for $119 (was $166.40).
Whether she’s passionate about gardening, inspired by beautiful homes, or loves to keep up with the latest entertainment, you’ll find the perfect match at Mags4Gifts.co.nz.
Don't miss out – shop now and make her day unforgettable!
From the team at Mags4Gifts
It might not be too late for you, but some people look back and wish they had taken a different career path.
If you could go back in time, would you choose something different? Let us know what you would have chosen in the comments below.
Behind every great community are small businesses with big hearts.
The Prospa Local Business Hero Awards celebrate the unsung heroes who do more than just business by bringing kindness, support, and joy to our neighbourhoods. Do you know a local business owner - or a member of the team - who … View moreBehind every great community are small businesses with big hearts.
The Prospa Local Business Hero Awards celebrate the unsung heroes who do more than just business by bringing kindness, support, and joy to our neighbourhoods. Do you know a local business owner - or a member of the team - who always goes the extra mile? Nominate them today and show your appreciation.
They could become New Zealand’s next Local Business Hero and earn a well-deserved reward for their incredible community spirit - plus you could win great prizes too!
Thanks to Lottery Grants funding from Lotto NZ players, Green Bikes in Whanganui is making cycling accessible while promoting sustainability.
Run by Sustainable Whanganui, the initiative refurbishes donated bikes, teaches repair skills, and provides affordable transport options. With community … View moreThanks to Lottery Grants funding from Lotto NZ players, Green Bikes in Whanganui is making cycling accessible while promoting sustainability.
Run by Sustainable Whanganui, the initiative refurbishes donated bikes, teaches repair skills, and provides affordable transport options. With community support, they’ve launched a mobile bike repair workshop, working alongside the Bikes in Schools programme to maintain and repair bikes for local students.
In the past year, they repaired over 150 bikes, ensuring more children have safe rides. Every Lotto NZ game played helps fund local initiatives like Green Bikes—empowering communities and protecting the environment.
Learn more at mylotto.co.nz/community-winners.
Looking for a thoughtful gift for Mum? Give her something she'll enjoy all year round with a magazine subscription!
Whether she’s passionate about gardening, inspired by beautiful homes, or loves to keep up with the latest entertainment, you’ll find the perfect match at
… View moreLooking for a thoughtful gift for Mum? Give her something she'll enjoy all year round with a magazine subscription!
Whether she’s passionate about gardening, inspired by beautiful homes, or loves to keep up with the latest entertainment, you’ll find the perfect match at
Mags4Gifts.co.nz.
This Mother's Day, save up to 35% on subscriptions – perfect for Mum, Grandma, a special mother figure, or even as a treat for yourself!
Don't miss out – shop now and make her day unforgettable!
From the team at Mags4Gifts
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