Auckland pest plague inbound for spring
New Zealand has just had an abnormally warm winter - usually a time where weak pests get killed off. Mild conditions mean they survived, and their numbers are increasing every day. Rats are going to be one of the main pests - especially in Auckland. They're capable of producing litters of up to 10 offspring every eight weeks under favourable conditions.
This can have a "massive impact" on our native fauna and flora. Rats are a threat for our native birds, insects, geckos and plants - including species like the yellow head and orange-fronted parakeet. And just like rodents, wasps and other creepy crawlies also like warmer weather. These hungry pests can cause chaos to our food supply as they chew on crops and friendly insects and spoil stored food products.
Image and story credit: Newshub
It’s Riddle Time! Beat the Neighbourhood with Your Smarts!
Which of the following words don't belong in the group and why?
CORSET, COSTER, SECTOR, ESCORT, COURTS
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
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Live Q&A: Garden maintenance with Crewcut
This Wednesday, we are having another Neighbourly Q&A session. This time with John Bracewell from Crewcut.
John Bracewell, former Black Caps coach turned Franchisee Development Manager and currently the face of Crewcut’s #Movember campaign, knows a thing or two about keeping the grass looking sharp—whether it’s on a cricket pitch or in your backyard!
As a seasoned Crewcut franchisee, John is excited to answer your lawn and gardening questions. After years of perfecting the greens on the field, he's ready to share tips on how to knock your garden out of the park. Let's just say he’s as passionate about lush lawns as he is about a good game of cricket!
John is happy to answer questions about lawn mowing, tree/hedge trimming, tidying your garden, ride on mowing, you name it! He'll be online on Wednesday, 27th of November to answer them all.
Share your question below now ⬇️
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.