Wasp wipeout - can you help?
Wasps are a serious problem for people on picnics, but their effects on native insect populations are devastating. Last summer we embarked on an ambitious project to make a dent in the wasp population in the Nelson region. We fundraised and were able to lay 390km of bait lines in some of the region's most popular recreational areas, effectively making 10,000 hectares wasp free.
This summer we are delighted to announce we are expanding the programme to other parts of the country which are also affected by high wasp numbers. Vespex is laid in bait stations in late January and February when wasps change to a protein-based diet. It is of low toxicity and safe for bees. Results from last summer showed it has a 95%-99% success rate.
While a small amount of work is Government funded, we're going to raise more funds to get as many areas baited as possible, and we need your help. Go to our Popshop page to contribute to a wasp-free region
So join us in the battle. The more we raise the more areas we can cover.
Poll: Should we ditch daylight saving? 🕰️
First introduced in New Zealand in 1927 with the passing of the Summer Time Act, it's what we know as 'Daylight Saving' and this year it ends on the first Sunday in April.
While we do get to sleep in this time around, some people would like to scrap the clock tinkering for good.
And why? Some evidence suggests the time changes are bad for our health as they mess with sleep patterns leading to short-term fatigue and affecting mood. Meanwhile the hour change is frustrating for farmers and a nightmare for getting the littlies to sleep. But what's your take?
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40.3% Yes - get rid of the clock changes
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57.8% No, I enjoy it
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1.9% Other - I'll share below
Alan and Hazel Kerr share Senior New Zealander of the Year Award 2026
Dr Alan and Hazel Kerr describe themselves as ‘just ordinary old Kiwis’, despite being named as the 2026 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealanders of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
The amazing couple prompted a standing ovation at a star-studded Auckland event which recognised their tireless efforts, with Alan travelling to and from Gaza and the West Bank 40 times to help children over 20 years, and Hazel travelling 20 times.
Click read more to find out more.
Poll: How important is the ability to book a doctor’s appointment online?
Hi Neighbours
Here at The Doctors we would love to hear how you prefer to book your doctor’s appointments. With busy schedules, different people find different methods easier.
For some, online booking is very convenient, you can make an appointment anytime without needing to wait on the phone. Others still prefer calling the clinic and speaking to a real person, especially if they have specific questions about their visit.
Your feedback helps us understand what works best for our patients and how we can improve access to care.
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40% I prefer booking online whenever possible
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24.1% Online booking is helpful but not essential
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32.6% I prefer calling the clinic
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3.3% I didn’t know online booking was available
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