HEALTHY CAIGUA PLANTS
Pronounced Kai-wa, this South American vine is grown for its prolific small gherkin like fruit that can be eaten raw or pickled. Traditionally used to reduce blood cholesterol and high blood pressure but now regarded as a gourmet item for summer salads with a pleasant cucumber-like crispness and taste. The vigorous climber resembles a bitter melon vine and can be grown over a trellis or fence and even left to sprawl over the ground. The fruit are best eaten at an immature 2-3cm stage while the leaves and young shoots can also be eaten as greens. It is great in salads, makes a lovely pickle.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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76.9% Yes
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22.2% No
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1% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
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82.1% Yes
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15.2% No
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2.7% Other - I'll share below