Lake Matahina, Whakatane

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94 days ago

Stand-Out Festive Decor: Build a Big DIY Nutcracker

The Team from Resene ColorShop Whakatane

Whip up a larger-than-life nutcracker and have it standing guard to greet guests this Christmas. This is an ideal opportunity to repurpose last year’s baubles, leftover Resene paint testpots and leftover materials from previous projects. You could use an old cardboard box for the body and cover … View moreWhip up a larger-than-life nutcracker and have it standing guard to greet guests this Christmas. This is an ideal opportunity to repurpose last year’s baubles, leftover Resene paint testpots and leftover materials from previous projects. You could use an old cardboard box for the body and cover it in fabric scraps. Find out how to make your own nutcracker with these easy step by step instructions.

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96 days ago

Suellen's Sweet Christmas Tradition

Bob Owens Retirement Village

The festive season is the perfect excuse to indulge your sweet tooth and to bring something truly special to the Christmas table. For Suellen’s family, that showstopper is Croquembouche !

An impressive tower of cream puffs bound together with delicate spun sugar, this classic dessert is a … View more
The festive season is the perfect excuse to indulge your sweet tooth and to bring something truly special to the Christmas table. For Suellen’s family, that showstopper is Croquembouche !

An impressive tower of cream puffs bound together with delicate spun sugar, this classic dessert is a favourite at weddings across France and Italy and a much-loved Christmas tradition at home.

Click read more for the full recipe.

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105 days ago

Poll: Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

There’s growing debate about whether New Zealand’s extended Christmas break (and the slowdown that comes with it) affects productivity.

Tracy Watkins has weighed in ... now it’s your turn. What’s your take? 🤔

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Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝
  • 73.7% We work hard, we deserve a break!
    73.7% Complete
  • 15.5% Hmm, maybe?
    15.5% Complete
  • 10.8% Yes!
    10.8% Complete
1427 votes
101 days ago

Celebrate in Style: Craft Your Own Decor with Testpots

The Team from Resene ColorShop Whakatane

Create handcrafted celebrations using Resene testpots. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.

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104 days ago

Ryman Village Open Days

Bob Owens Retirement Village

Join us this Wednesday and explore our lifestyle, show homes and amenities.

More than just a place to live, Ryman villages are places where friendships grow, hobbies flourish and a genuine sense of community thrives.

The best way is to experience it for yourself. No appointment necessary!

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112 days ago

Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.

We want to … View more
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.

We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?

Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.

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Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
  • 52.9% Yes
    52.9% Complete
  • 47.1% No
    47.1% Complete
2379 votes
108 days ago

Appeal for information following fatal crash: Tāneatua

The Team from Bay of Plenty & Taupo Police

Police investigating a fatal crash in Tāneatua are seeking further information from members of the public who witnessed the crash, or any movements leading up to the crash, to assist with our enquiries.

Prior to the crash, Police can confirm the red Honda Accord was observed travelling on Reid … View more
Police investigating a fatal crash in Tāneatua are seeking further information from members of the public who witnessed the crash, or any movements leading up to the crash, to assist with our enquiries.

Prior to the crash, Police can confirm the red Honda Accord was observed travelling on Reid Road in excess of the speed limit.

A Police vehicle travelling the other direction observed the vehicle at speed, however was unable to locate the vehicle as it travelled towards White Pine Bush Road.

Police believe there were two other vehicles near or on the Pekatahi Bridge at the time of the crash, and we’d like to speak to the occupants of those vehicles to understand what they saw.

Additionally, we’re still seeking information from anybody who saw a red Honda Accord travelling in and around Tāneatua between 5:30pm and 6pm on Tuesday 2 December.

If you have information, please contact Police via 105, either over the phone or online, referencing file number 251202/5566.

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108 days ago

Poll: Over summer, how do you reclaim your sense of home in the Bay of Plenty?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

When tourists take over the streets and parking disappears, where do you find your calm?
Or is summer’s hustle something to enjoy rather than escape?

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Over summer, how do you reclaim your sense of home in the Bay of Plenty?
  • 44.4% I enjoy the summer hubbub!
    44.4% Complete
  • 51.9% Please, give me some peace
    51.9% Complete
  • 3.7% I escape the region during summer
    3.7% Complete
27 votes
108 days ago

Turn Wallpaper Scraps into Beautiful Blossoms

The Team from Resene ColorShop Whakatane

These blossoms made from Resene wallpaper left over after decorating will mean your décor will be blooming gorgeous, no matter the season. Find out how to create your own wallpaper flowers with these easy step by step instructions.

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109 days ago

Make the holidays easier this year!

Bob Owens Retirement Village

We’ve pulled together a few clever Christmas hacks thanks to Ryman resident, Sullen - simple ideas to save time and stress so you can enjoy more of the festive fun.

A few favourites:
- Hang tree lights vertically for an even glow
- Use reusable gift bags for quick, eco-friendly wrapping
- … View more
We’ve pulled together a few clever Christmas hacks thanks to Ryman resident, Sullen - simple ideas to save time and stress so you can enjoy more of the festive fun.

A few favourites:
- Hang tree lights vertically for an even glow
- Use reusable gift bags for quick, eco-friendly wrapping
- Prep food ahead to keep Christmas Day relaxed

Click read more for the full list of tips.

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110 days ago

Discover life at The Bayview

Oceania The Bayview Village

At The Bayview, stunning views and relaxed, resort-style living set the tone for every day. Light-filled apartments, friendly neighbours and quality amenities create a lifestyle that feels uplifting and beautifully easy. Make the most of Tauranga’s sunshine in a place designed for comfort and … View moreAt The Bayview, stunning views and relaxed, resort-style living set the tone for every day. Light-filled apartments, friendly neighbours and quality amenities create a lifestyle that feels uplifting and beautifully easy. Make the most of Tauranga’s sunshine in a place designed for comfort and connection. Learn More

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111 days ago

Warrant to arrest: Robin Martin

The Team from New Zealand Police

Police are working to locate Robin Dion Leslie Martin, who has a warrant for his arrest and is wanted by Police.

Robin, 52, is wanted in relation to a number of dishonestly offences and is known to frequent the wider Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions.

It’s believed he is actively … View more
Police are working to locate Robin Dion Leslie Martin, who has a warrant for his arrest and is wanted by Police.

Robin, 52, is wanted in relation to a number of dishonestly offences and is known to frequent the wider Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions.

It’s believed he is actively avoiding Police.

If you have seen Robin or have any information that may assist in locating him, please update us online now or call 105.
Please use the reference number 251002/1842.
Alternatively information can be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

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112 days ago

Serious crash blocking State Highway 5: Tapapa - Bay of Plenty

The Team from Bay of Plenty & Taupo Police

Emergency services are responding to a serious crash on State Highway 5, Tapapa.

Police were advised at 10.45am that a car had collided with a tree, between Harwoods Road and Tapapa Road. The car caught on fire following the crash and the fire is reported to have spread to nearby vegetation.

View more
Emergency services are responding to a serious crash on State Highway 5, Tapapa.

Police were advised at 10.45am that a car had collided with a tree, between Harwoods Road and Tapapa Road. The car caught on fire following the crash and the fire is reported to have spread to nearby vegetation.

Motorists are advised to expect delays and should take alternative routes where possible

⚠️ UPDATE:
Following a crash on State Highway 5, Tapapa this morning, trucks and heavy vehicles heading north between Rotorua and Tīrau will not be able to go past the intersection of Harwoods Road and State Highway 5.

A diversion for trucks and heavy vehicles is in place and drivers should follow the directions of emergency services staff.

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118 days ago

Poll: Can changing the way we shop actually make a difference? 💸💸💸

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Shopping has become such a big part of our everyday lives, and the choices we make can influence more than we realise.

If you’d like to make those dollars work harder for our local communities, consider choosing small. Households spend more than $110 billion with big businesses each year. … View more
Shopping has become such a big part of our everyday lives, and the choices we make can influence more than we realise.

If you’d like to make those dollars work harder for our local communities, consider choosing small. Households spend more than $110 billion with big businesses each year. Shifting a portion of that toward small, local retailers can make a huge difference for the wider small-business economy.

Read business journalist Aimee Shaw's piece.

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Can changing the way we shop actually make a difference? 💸💸💸
  • 67% Yes - where you shop has impact
    67% Complete
  • 33% No - price and quality is what matters
    33% Complete
616 votes
115 days ago

Dive into Creativity: Turn Terracotta Pots into Colorful Sea Creatures with Resene Paint

The Team from Resene ColorShop Whakatane

There’s lots to explore on the ocean floor by transforming terracotta pots into sensational sea creatures using Resene paint. Gather the kids and your Resene testpots. Find out how to make and paint your own ocean friends with these easy step by step instructions.

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