Friday Feathered Friend
A nice yarn and photo by Louise Thomas.
"I don’t mind admitting I cried a little when I saw my first kākā in the wild in Wellington. It was some years ago now, but at the time it seemed incredible to me that this bird I’d only ever seen in photos or in captivity was marauding about my home turf.
The experience was a little overwhelming – not for them mind you, they just carried on ripping the bark from a tree and looking at me from time to time with vague interest. Now of course we grumble about how destructive they are - but hey, it’s a parrot – it’s what they do.
Also, I’m pretty sure our native trees and shrubs have evolved with this guy, so can no doubt cope with having a few blossoms ripped off or bark stripped.
If I had a built-in can-opener I’d be tempted to try it out on a few things too. Kākā/brown parrot (Nestor meridionalis), Wellington Botanic Garden today. As an aside, the tulips are blooming and looking magnificent there at the moment if you get the chance."
Poll: Should we ditch daylight saving? 🕰️
First introduced in New Zealand in 1927 with the passing of the Summer Time Act, it's what we know as 'Daylight Saving' and this year it ends on the first Sunday in April.
While we do get to sleep in this time around, some people would like to scrap the clock tinkering for good.
And why? Some evidence suggests the time changes are bad for our health as they mess with sleep patterns leading to short-term fatigue and affecting mood. Meanwhile the hour change is frustrating for farmers and a nightmare for getting the littlies to sleep. But what's your take?
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40.5% Yes - get rid of the clock changes
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57.6% No, I enjoy it
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1.9% Other - I'll share below
Everybody Dance!!
Everybody Dance warmly welcomes Valerie to lead our fun Sunday sessions from 29th March to 31st May at 4.30pm!
Come and enjoy exercise through vibrant Pacific-style music and dance - a joyful way to move your body, lift your mood, and connect with others.
Alan and Hazel Kerr share Senior New Zealander of the Year Award 2026
Dr Alan and Hazel Kerr describe themselves as ‘just ordinary old Kiwis’, despite being named as the 2026 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealanders of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
The amazing couple prompted a standing ovation at a star-studded Auckland event which recognised their tireless efforts, with Alan travelling to and from Gaza and the West Bank 40 times to help children over 20 years, and Hazel travelling 20 times.
Click read more to find out more.
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