1859 days ago

Friday Feathered Friend

Reporter Community News

This week we are featuring the kingfisher, with words and a picture from Louise Thomas. They are often hard to spot but are one of the most beautiful birds you will see.

"Sacred kingfishers/kōtare (Todiramphus sanctus) seem special to me. A lightning flash of brilliant blue as they nip down from the power lines over the river or one of the posts they like to perch on to snatch a crab or little fish – the strike operation takes only seconds, barely breaking the water. I’ve almost given up trying to catch one on my camera diving. They are ruthless with their food, smashing in on their post, presumably to kill it, before swallowing it whole. I haven’t seen him for a few months, but I had one who liked to visit the garden off and on. He was a loveable, if badly behaved, guest, throwing up indigestible crab bits and staking out the compost bin where a mouse lives – he used to watch it with such intensity, like he was trying to use his mind meld powers to make the mouse run out. Come to think of it, I haven't seen the mouse for awhile either. Hmmm. Here is a young chap (an immature) with his chest still mottled from Pauatahanui the other day."

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More messages from your neighbours
5 days ago

Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙

One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.

So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?

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Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
  • 60% Yes, supporting people is important!
    60% Complete
  • 25.7% No, individuals should take responsibility
    25.7% Complete
  • 14.3% ... It is complicated
    14.3% Complete
1033 votes
19 hours ago

Storm damage and garden clean ups

Ian Hamilton from Natures choice gardening services - Kilbirnie

Strorm
Damage if you need a tree removed
Call us on 0272430951
And we can help

22 hours ago

Wild weather in Wellington

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Wellington’s wild weather is really making itself known — trains and flights are being cancelled, and drivers are being reminded to take it slow and stay safe out there.

Want to stay in the loop and see what’s happening next? The Post has all the latest updates to keep you covered.

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