Matahina Forest, Whakatane

Introduce yourself, neighbour!

Introduce yourself, neighbour!

Head to our Know Thy Neighbour page.

2205 days ago

Your official local hero

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Collecting the world's kauri species has led Omanawa farmer-turned-orchardist Graham Dyer to some of the Pacific's most remote spots, and he has been recognised as a Kiwibank Local Hero 2018 medal recipient for the Bay of Plenty region. Read his story here.

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2205 days ago

Poll: Should fireworks be banned?

The Team from ACC New Zealand

Setting off fireworks has become an annual Kiwi backyard tradition, and it’s almost time to break out the sparklers again. However, critics say they’re dangerous and people are injured by them every year. Fans, on the other hand, argue that all fun involves some level of risk, it just needs to … View moreSetting off fireworks has become an annual Kiwi backyard tradition, and it’s almost time to break out the sparklers again. However, critics say they’re dangerous and people are injured by them every year. Fans, on the other hand, argue that all fun involves some level of risk, it just needs to be managed safely.

Last year, we saw a 23% drop in the number of fireworks-related injury claims (171 claims across 2017 versus 223 across 2016). What do you think? Should personal fireworks be banned? Click here for advice on how to use fireworks responsibly.

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Should fireworks be banned?
  • 18.4% Yes - get rid of them altogether
    18.4% Complete
  • 59.5% No - let's keep professional public displays only
    59.5% Complete
  • 18.2% No - I think they're great
    18.2% Complete
  • 3.8% I don't mind either way
    3.8% Complete
5408 votes
2206 days ago

Breaking news: Earthquake rattles central New Zealand

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Hi neighbours - keep safe out there! A strong earthquake 6.7 magnitude has struck central New Zealand.

It struck at a depth of 193km about 35km south-west of Taumarunui.

More than 9000 people reported feeling the quake within 10 minutes of it striking at 3.14pm. The quake was felt as far as … View more
Hi neighbours - keep safe out there! A strong earthquake 6.7 magnitude has struck central New Zealand.

It struck at a depth of 193km about 35km south-west of Taumarunui.

More than 9000 people reported feeling the quake within 10 minutes of it striking at 3.14pm. The quake was felt as far as the South Island.

We will keep you up to date with the latest. For updates and more info, click here.

So far:
- Parliament has been suspended until further notice on the advice of Civil Defence.
- Make sure you check on your neighbours - even though there may have not been any damage near you, your neighbours may still need your help.
- If you need to alert your neighbours urgently, then don't hesitate to send out an Urgent Alert to your community. You can find this function when you go to post a message on Neighbourly.
- Metlink Wellington said rail services would continue to run with some delays following the recent earthquake.
- Fire and Emergency NZ had no reports of injuries nor damage across the South Island.
- GNS Science have advised there is no tsunami threat to New Zealand

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2206 days ago

Poll: Does your family take part in trick-or-treating?

Georgia Reporter from Stuff

Hi neighbours,

Get ready, the scary season is here and trick-or-treaters may soon be knocking at your door. So we want to know, is trick-or-treating something your family gets involved in? How about the US trend called 'trunk-or-treat'? Take part in our poll to let us know!

The New … View more
Hi neighbours,

Get ready, the scary season is here and trick-or-treaters may soon be knocking at your door. So we want to know, is trick-or-treating something your family gets involved in? How about the US trend called 'trunk-or-treat'? Take part in our poll to let us know!

The New Zealand police are encouraging parents, caregivers, and children to celebrate Halloween, on Wednesday, safely. To read police advice, click here.

Also, for tips on how to make your home seem scary or how to celebrate Halloween without the sugar rush, click here.

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Does your family take part in trick-or-treating?
  • 13.6% Yes
    13.6% Complete
  • 80.9% No
    80.9% Complete
  • 5% We sometimes go trick-or-treating
    5% Complete
  • 0.6% We're doing trunk-or-treat this year
    0.6% Complete
2655 votes
2206 days ago

Recall: Pams Baby Wipes

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

A small number of packs in selected stores have exhibited signs of mould growth. We are erring on the side of caution and recalling this product. While mould is unlikely to affect most users, the product is not of the standard we expect.

Customers who have purchased the date codes in question … View more
A small number of packs in selected stores have exhibited signs of mould growth. We are erring on the side of caution and recalling this product. While mould is unlikely to affect most users, the product is not of the standard we expect.

Customers who have purchased the date codes in question can return the product to store (New World, Pak 'n Save, FourSquare and Gilmours) for a full refund.

Affected batches
140 Thick Wipes. Expiry date 04/06/2020
80 Thick Wipes. Expiry date 12/08/2020
72 Thick Wipes. Expiry date 06/08/2020

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2207 days ago

Safe Ways to School

Richard Parfitt from Whakatāne District Council

Safe Ways to School is a community engagement project (part of Active Whakatāne) that uses in-class and online surveys, as well as geospatial mapping technology, to engage the school community and gather insights for targeted infrastructure and community-wide programmes that promote safe, active … View moreSafe Ways to School is a community engagement project (part of Active Whakatāne) that uses in-class and online surveys, as well as geospatial mapping technology, to engage the school community and gather insights for targeted infrastructure and community-wide programmes that promote safe, active travel to and from school (and reduce congestion at the school gate).

We're looking for your input specifically on walking and cycling for transport and recreation.

Please take our online survey here:
www.surveymonkey.com...

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2207 days ago

Future of civil defence emergency management - have your say!

The Team from Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management

Have your say about the future of civil defence emergency management in New Zealand.

We want to know what you think about a proposed National Disaster Resilience Strategy for New Zealand.

The strategy sets New Zealand’s vision and long-term goals for civil defence emergency management. It has a… View more
Have your say about the future of civil defence emergency management in New Zealand.

We want to know what you think about a proposed National Disaster Resilience Strategy for New Zealand.

The strategy sets New Zealand’s vision and long-term goals for civil defence emergency management. It has a strong focus on building community and societal disaster resilience to protect New Zealand’s prosperity and well-being.

Your input will help us to make the strategy relevant, and better able to meet its objectives, for all New Zealanders. You can view the proposed National Disaster Resilience Strategy and find out how to make a submission at www.civildefence.govt.nz...

The consultation will close on Friday, 7 December 2018.

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2207 days ago

Live Stronger for Longer!

The Team from ACC New Zealand

Maintain your strength and balance with Live Stronger for Longer classes. You'll learn simple exercises in your local community to help keep you steady on your feet and reduce the risk of falls. These classes are safe and you’ll have fun while meeting new people in your community. Go to … View moreMaintain your strength and balance with Live Stronger for Longer classes. You'll learn simple exercises in your local community to help keep you steady on your feet and reduce the risk of falls. These classes are safe and you’ll have fun while meeting new people in your community. Go to livestronger.org.nz to find an approved class near you. Brought to you by ACC, Ministry of Health and Health Quality and Safety Commission. Find out more

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2208 days ago

Fonterra Open Gates, free family day out

Fonterra Open Gates

Some Fonterra farmers are opening up their gates on Sunday 11 November, to show how they care for the environment and what they are doing to help protect it.

It’s also your chance to enjoy a fun family day out on the farm, where you can see where your milk comes from, chat to our farmers and … View more
Some Fonterra farmers are opening up their gates on Sunday 11 November, to show how they care for the environment and what they are doing to help protect it.

It’s also your chance to enjoy a fun family day out on the farm, where you can see where your milk comes from, chat to our farmers and sample our products, including our special edition Tip Top ice cream.

Book your free farm visit to secure your place and don't forget your gumboots! For more information visit Open Gates.
Find out more!

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2209 days ago

Help Tom Thank the Blind Foundation

The Team from Givealittle

Hi New Zealand,

This week is Blind Week raising awareness and funds for the Blind Foundation to support those who are blind or have low vision.

94 year old Tom Beale is on a mission to thank the Blind Foundation after they helped him through a tough time. Let's help Tom give back to … View more
Hi New Zealand,

This week is Blind Week raising awareness and funds for the Blind Foundation to support those who are blind or have low vision.

94 year old Tom Beale is on a mission to thank the Blind Foundation after they helped him through a tough time. Let's help Tom give back to this wonderful organisation through Givealittle!

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2210 days ago

Check out the latest SuperSeniors newsletter

Office for Seniors

Hi Neighbours!

Want news for and about older New Zealanders? Then check out the latest edition of the SuperSeniors newsletter.

In the October issue we celebrate seniors as part of International Day of Older Persons. Telecommunications Commissioner, Dr Stephen Gale, talks about how to choose … View more
Hi Neighbours!

Want news for and about older New Zealanders? Then check out the latest edition of the SuperSeniors newsletter.

In the October issue we celebrate seniors as part of International Day of Older Persons. Telecommunications Commissioner, Dr Stephen Gale, talks about how to choose the right internet plan and we learn more about how to become a Dementia Friend.

To subscribe, follow this link: bit.ly...

To view past editions go to www.superseniors.msd.govt.nz...

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2212 days ago

Poll: Is free-range chicken worth the extra cost?

Georgia Reporter from Stuff

Hi neighbours,

Chicken is a popular dish for many Kiwi families. But are you happy to pay the extra cost for free-range or organic chicken? If so, why do you fork out extra for it? Although buying free-range chicken might be an ethical choice for many, it's … View more
Hi neighbours,

Chicken is a popular dish for many Kiwi families. But are you happy to pay the extra cost for free-range or organic chicken? If so, why do you fork out extra for it? Although buying free-range chicken might be an ethical choice for many, it's not necessarily any healthier than other chicken.

As part of a new Stuff series, we look at why chicken is so cheap to buy nowadays, what happens inside the barn, why chickens get so big and the use of antibiotics in chicken feed. To learn more about what happens to your chicken before you put it in your shopping trolley, click the links above.

Have you got an opinion on the topic? Share your thoughts in the replies below. (Please add "NFP/not for print" if you do not want your images/ comments used on Stuff)

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Is free-range chicken worth the extra cost?
  • 57.1% Yes
    57.1% Complete
  • 42.9% No
    42.9% Complete
98 votes
2212 days ago

Get decorating and $ave with the Resene October Sale!

Resene

Neighbours – now is your chance to refresh your place ready for the holidays. Get 30% off Resene premium paints, wood stains, primers and sealers 4L and under, 30% off wallpaper, 25% off Resene premium paints, wood stains, primers and sealers, 25% of decorating accessories and 25% off the Resene… View moreNeighbours – now is your chance to refresh your place ready for the holidays. Get 30% off Resene premium paints, wood stains, primers and sealers 4L and under, 30% off wallpaper, 25% off Resene premium paints, wood stains, primers and sealers, 25% of decorating accessories and 25% off the Resene cleaning range! Available at your local Resene ColorShop until 31 October 2018.

* Discount off the normal retail price. Excludes WallPrint, trade products and PaintWise levy. Not available in conjunction with any other offer.
Find out more

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2215 days ago

How will this affect your wages?

The Team from ACC New Zealand

For most workers, part of your wage goes to ACC. We’re proposing you pay more because accidents and medical costs have gone up. If you’re a wage earner, these proposals could affect you.

Learn about all the proposals and have your say at our site by October 25.
Learn more

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2239 days ago

Bubbles is home!

Nardene from Whakatane District

After 8 long months missing, my cat Bubbles has been found and is home again safe and sound. We are beyond excited and happy to have our lovely boy home again. Thank you for all the support over the past months, it was greatly appreciated during such a difficult time. It was so distressing not … View moreAfter 8 long months missing, my cat Bubbles has been found and is home again safe and sound. We are beyond excited and happy to have our lovely boy home again. Thank you for all the support over the past months, it was greatly appreciated during such a difficult time. It was so distressing not knowing where he was or what happened to him.
I know some of you will be looking forward to having a visit from Bubbles as he does his rounds in the neighbourhood, but for those of you who don't enjoy his visits, please give him a squirt with your garden hose as he really hates that and it just may deter him from coming back, or if you have a water pistol, keep it loaded and in a handy location for quick easy access to squirt him. You never know, you may actually enjoy it! Feel free to contact me and I can supply you with the water pistol if you like this option. I know he can be a nuisance and I understand your concerns, but please remember he's not just a cat to us, he's family. Please be patient as we are not here long term and will be leaving the neighbourhood once our house is built.
Bubbles will be locked in over night and we'll do our best to keep him home during the day when we are home.
And finally, for those of you with missing pets, please, never give up hope.

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