Ohakana Island, Whakatane

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Want to get to know your neighbours?

Check out our Know Thy Neighbour page here.

999 days ago

Got a business that's made your day?

Prospa

It’s time to give your favourite local business owner the recognition they deserve by nominating them in the 2022 Prospa Local Business Hero awards – and they could be up for some fantastic prizes. 

As NZ’s business lending specialists, we at Prospa love seeing small businesses reach … View more
It’s time to give your favourite local business owner the recognition they deserve by nominating them in the 2022 Prospa Local Business Hero awards – and they could be up for some fantastic prizes. 

As NZ’s business lending specialists, we at Prospa love seeing small businesses reach their goals with a faster, easier approach to business loans. And we’re proud to be back sponsoring the 2022 Prospa Local Business Hero awards.
Find out more

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999 days ago

Stuff Explained launches (free) newsletter

Stuff

Stuff Explained seeks to explain the 'why' behind the news, delivered straight to your inbox.

Curated by Stuff's Explainer Editor Keith Lynch, the fortnightly newsletter explains everything from the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, to the inner workings of the economy, to the forces … View more
Stuff Explained seeks to explain the 'why' behind the news, delivered straight to your inbox.

Curated by Stuff's Explainer Editor Keith Lynch, the fortnightly newsletter explains everything from the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, to the inner workings of the economy, to the forces that are shaping how New Zealanders live. It will feature original explainer reporting keeping you up to date with the biggest issues, along with the very best in Stuff Explained reporting you may have missed.

Sign up here (it's free!).
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1000 days ago

Win a 9 day Southern Dream tour for two.

Stuff

Enjoy a 9 day dream touring experience for two across the South Island and immerse yourself in incredible landscapes, heritage and culture.

Itinerary includes popular destinations such as Queenstown, Dunedin and Doubtful Sound. Terms and Competitions apply.
Find out more

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1000 days ago

Work with Apata and be in to win $1000 in weekly prizes!

Apata

Work’s way more fun when you’re winning, and that’s why Apata has heaps of rewards and sweet giveaways for 2022 March to June seasonal staff!

You can also choose to work the days and hours that suit you best. There’s also BP cards and New World vouchers on offer just for signing up or … View more
Work’s way more fun when you’re winning, and that’s why Apata has heaps of rewards and sweet giveaways for 2022 March to June seasonal staff!

You can also choose to work the days and hours that suit you best. There’s also BP cards and New World vouchers on offer just for signing up or referring a friend. *T&C’s apply
Find out more

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1002 days ago

The Right Way to Clean Velvet

Robert Anderson from Curtain Clean at Whakatane ChemDry

Is your velvet sofa looking less than luxe? Learn how to clean velvet furniture and keep it looking as sumptuous as the day you bought it.

Choosing velvet furniture is choosing to make a bold style statement in your space—there’s no ignoring its soft sheen, rich colour, and innate elegance. … View more
Is your velvet sofa looking less than luxe? Learn how to clean velvet furniture and keep it looking as sumptuous as the day you bought it.

Choosing velvet furniture is choosing to make a bold style statement in your space—there’s no ignoring its soft sheen, rich colour, and innate elegance. But velvet’s commanding presence also means that any discoloration or stains are that much more visible. No more hiding a dusty apartment…once the sunlight hits a velvet couch, there’s no hiding those annoying, allergy-inducing particles.

If you’ve opted for a bright, richly pigmented colour, like navy or chartreuse, we recommend avoiding direct sunlight, which can cause the fabric to fade. Consider window coverings substantial enough to protect your piece but lovely enough to catch the eye. Read on to learn how to clean velvet furniture and protect it from wear and tear and those inevitable spills.

Materials:
- Vacuum
- Absorbent cloth
- Soap and water or an upholstery cleaner
- Soft brush

Vacuum the fabric: Remember those pesky dust particles we were talking about? Well, in terms of regular maintenance, all you need to do to the item itself is give it a good dusting. We recommend regular vacuuming; a soft brush can also loosen surface dirt and brush it away.

Tackle spills the right way: If a friend does happen to spill their cocktail on your couch, White suggests blotting the area immediately with a clean, dry absorbent cloth. We then recommend mandating said friend to a different spot in your home. No one likes a party foul.

Test cleaning products: If a dried stain is staring you in the face and you just can’t help but do something about it, test any cleaning product (even basic soap and water) on a hidden spot to ensure it doesn’t ruin the fabric. Mix soap and water to create a sudsy solution. Use a soft cloth to blot the stain with the suds, then let the fabric dry completely.

Brush the fabric: Once the velvet is dry, use a soft, dry brush in the direction of the pile to restore its direction and loft. This will give the velvet that brand-new, never-been-touched look.

Turn to a professional: When in doubt, ask for help. It’s best to professionally clean the entire piece to ensure the colour remains uniform. To ensure your velvet furniture remains in optimal condition, you should have it professionally cleaned. Next up? Sit back, relax, and enjoy your good-as-new upholstery.

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1005 days ago

looking for a friend

Barry.Lodge from Whakatane District

yes iam still here lonley would like a lady friend to go out with

1005 days ago

Interior Design Trends 2022

Robert Anderson from Curtain Clean at Whakatane ChemDry

The interior design trends you can expect to see bloom in 2022.

Somehow in the last couple of years, time has stretched yet stalled in ways most of us can’t quite comprehend: it seems as though the initial pandemic lockdown was only yesterday.

The ongoing impacts of Covid-19 and the … View more
The interior design trends you can expect to see bloom in 2022.

Somehow in the last couple of years, time has stretched yet stalled in ways most of us can’t quite comprehend: it seems as though the initial pandemic lockdown was only yesterday.

The ongoing impacts of Covid-19 and the restrictions and life changes it has brought about has shaped all aspects of life: including property design and development, and the way we choose to furnish our homes.

A Touch of the 70s: The 90s may currently be the retro kickback in clothing fashion, but the 70s is about to make its comeback for interior design. This vintage theme will not be the bold patterned wallpaper and aubergine coloured bathroom fittings you’ve only just stripped from your grandparents’ home but instead suggestions and colour pops of burnt orange, moss greens and other warm neutrals.
Items to lend these pops of brightness and patterns can be found at local flea markets, antique stores and junkyards. Routinely visiting these places and keeping an eye out for 70s pieces online can help you find lots of complementary items to mix and match and provide a retro flair.

Bringing the Outside, In: The houseplant trend we saw bloom through 2021 is set to continue through 2022. Bringing authentic greenery into the home has been proven to improve internal air quality, promote endorphins and, well, to make the place look great!

Retailers have moved with the increased demand for houseplants and most now stock a good variety to cater for everyone, so there’s something for every room and every capability of green fingers. A sweetheart plant is a versatile climber happy in shaded rooms, hole-y monstera plants with their unique cut-out leaves thrive in low-light interiors, fiddle leaf fig trees are hardy and bushy but need lots of sun, and snake plants only need infrequent watering to flourish.

Keep reading: www.curtainclean.co.nz...

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1006 days ago

Hey Neighbours! Has your KiwiSaver balance changed lately?

The Team from NZ Compare

Your KiwiSaver balance goes up and down depending on the stock market and economic conditions, like the pandemic!

You may have noticed your balance fluctuating a bit, for a lot of us it's been dropping. Not what we like to see!

Don't panic, learn why yours might have dropped thanks… View more
Your KiwiSaver balance goes up and down depending on the stock market and economic conditions, like the pandemic!

You may have noticed your balance fluctuating a bit, for a lot of us it's been dropping. Not what we like to see!

Don't panic, learn why yours might have dropped thanks to Money Compare and get some control back.

Money Compare is a quick and easy tool to help you Compare KiwiSaver plans, Insurance and Loans and Credit Cards. Like our other comparison brands it will help you find the best financial solution or provider in NZ to suit your needs and budget.

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1009 days ago

Learn new skills, unlock your future.

Te Wānanga o Aotearoa

Want to grow your knowledge and skills to boost your career options?

We can help develop your skill set with one of our courses in Team Leadership, Administration & Technology, Money Management, Smart Steps to Buisness or Business Project Management.

Enrolments are now open with classes … View more
Want to grow your knowledge and skills to boost your career options?

We can help develop your skill set with one of our courses in Team Leadership, Administration & Technology, Money Management, Smart Steps to Buisness or Business Project Management.

Enrolments are now open with classes starting in March. Don’t miss out! Enrol today.
Find out more

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1010 days ago

Curious Minds Taranaki - Funding Available Now!

Venture Taranaki

Do you have a great idea for a collaborative research project?

Curious Minds Taranaki provides funding support and expertise to community groups looking to explore ideas and carry out research investigations.

Researchers, community organisations, and schools can Apply Now for up to $20,000 of… View more
Do you have a great idea for a collaborative research project?

Curious Minds Taranaki provides funding support and expertise to community groups looking to explore ideas and carry out research investigations.

Researchers, community organisations, and schools can Apply Now for up to $20,000 of funding to turn your ideas into action. Funding is available for collaborative science, technology or mātauranga projects that are Educationally Valuable, Locally Relevant and Scientifically Robust.

Find out more and register your idea
Find out more

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1010 days ago

Your Local Family owned Kitchen Company

Kitchensrus

Based in Mount Maunganui, the Reardon Family have been producing top quality kitchens for the last 16 years. Owned by Russell and Deb Reardon, with all three sons; Scott, Haydn and Todd, working in the company in their respective roles.

The family company culture adds trust to the product, as … View more
Based in Mount Maunganui, the Reardon Family have been producing top quality kitchens for the last 16 years. Owned by Russell and Deb Reardon, with all three sons; Scott, Haydn and Todd, working in the company in their respective roles.

The family company culture adds trust to the product, as you're not just buying kitchens off of a company or a brand, but as a family, a local family that you can trust as they have lasted the test of time and stand by their product.
Know more

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1013 days ago

Read our Kōwhai magazine online

In this summer edition, find inspiration from conscious living leaders like artist David Trubridge who takes inspiration from nature and the founders of Naturebox, Blair and Ollie who want to help Kiwis sustainably grow food. We meet Ryman residents Ross and Eleanor who love to explore Aotearoa … View moreIn this summer edition, find inspiration from conscious living leaders like artist David Trubridge who takes inspiration from nature and the founders of Naturebox, Blair and Ollie who want to help Kiwis sustainably grow food. We meet Ryman residents Ross and Eleanor who love to explore Aotearoa whenever they can. Find out more

1013 days ago

Sign up to Oval Office, Stuff's rugby newsletter

Stuff

Stuff's Oval Office delivers all of the rugby action - from on and off the field - straight to inboxes around NZ.

Our sports reporters keep you up to date with the biggest rugby news, match highlights and stories that you might have missed.

Sign up (it's free!) here.
Sign up now

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1013 days ago

Have you got New Zealand's best shed?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Dear neighbours,

Last year, Greytown magician Paul Bates' Tardis-inspired shed was declared the Shed of the Year. This year, Resene and NZ Gardener are once again on the hunt for the country's best shed! Send in the photos and stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever storage … View more
Dear neighbours,

Last year, Greytown magician Paul Bates' Tardis-inspired shed was declared the Shed of the Year. This year, Resene and NZ Gardener are once again on the hunt for the country's best shed! Send in the photos and stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever storage spaces, cute chicken coops and potty potting sheds. The Resene Shed of the Year 2022 winners will receive prizes worth more than $2200. Just tell us in writing why your garden shed is New Zealand's best, and send up to five high-quality photos. Email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close Feb 27, 2022.

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1014 days ago

Do you have a great kūmara recipe?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Dear neighbours,

Every month, NZ Gardener runs a series of tested reader recipes using a seasonal crop. We are now on the hunt for kūmara recipes, so send your best ones to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz before February 27, 2022.

Every published recipe wins a copy of our special edition Homegrown … View more
Dear neighbours,

Every month, NZ Gardener runs a series of tested reader recipes using a seasonal crop. We are now on the hunt for kūmara recipes, so send your best ones to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz before February 27, 2022.

Every published recipe wins a copy of our special edition Homegrown Recipes.

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