Wairarapa has all the good oil
Wairarapa Olive Oil makers have dominated the annual NZ Extra Virgin Olive Oil Awards, winning four of five major awards.
Some 128 oils were judged much like wine or beer; poured into glasses – blue, to prevent bias based on colour – sipped, and scored by six judges during lockdown.
Judging took place remotely due to Covid-19. Judges were sent tiny bottles of each oil, which they warmed on an electric heat pad to 34 degrees Celsius, and then sipped, sucking air through their teeth to enhance the flavour.
Best in Show went to Olive Black Extra Virgin Olive Oil, an intense blend with green grass, pine, and floral notes.
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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76.3% Yes
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22.3% No
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1.4% 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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82.2% Yes
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15.2% No
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2.7% Other - I'll share below