View all Posts from Glenbervie
1975 days ago

cleaning products and the septic tank

Peter from Kamo

Does anyone have some *valid* information on what cleaning products, from laundry detergent to toilet cleaners, are relatively innocuous when it comes to killing off the bugs (i.e. the 'worker bees') in the septic tank?


Now, I'm a bit sceptical: I read a report a few years ago that products with the word 'eco' in the name or a dolphin on the label are often no more environmentally friendly than the products from Persil or Proctor & Gamble. It's often just a marketing ploy.

So I'm looking for some genuine information, which is NOT easy to find.
We had a bit of a problem with our biocycle septic system that was discovered at the last maintenance - now, I actually have a suspicion that this was due to our chlorinating our water tanks with a goodly dose of bleach last summer - the water got a bit pongy and was way too warm - rather than the products we use which have otherwise which have not given trouble for years and years. BUT - if I can get some good information, all the better in my opinion, the septic tank maintenance man thought we should look into that.

More messages from your neighbours
22 days ago

Poll: As a customer, what do you think about automation?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Press investigates the growing reliance on your unpaid labour.

Automation (or the “unpaid shift”) is often described as efficient ... but it tends to benefit employers more than consumers.

We want to know: What do you think about automation?
Are you for, or against?

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As a customer, what do you think about automation?
  • 9.5% For. Self-service is less frustrating and convenient.
    9.5% Complete
  • 43.4% I want to be able to choose.
    43.4% Complete
  • 47.1% Against. I want to deal with people.
    47.1% Complete
2518 votes
K
5 days ago

WAITANGI WEEKEND MARKET – WHANGĀREI

Kristi from Tikipunga

Support the Onerahi Lions Fundraiser at the Waitangi Weekend Market this Saturday at Reyburn House Town Basin !

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6 days ago

Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.

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