Boaties harass pod of orca
The Department of Conservation is seeking the identities of a paddle boarder and about seven people on board two boats in Ngawai Bay, near Helena Bay on January 4, after drone footage posted to Facebook showed the vessels in close proximity of a pod of orca.
The boats traveled between the pod - made up of four orca, including a calf - at speed, following them, and at several points going over the top of one.
It is a breach under the New Zealand Marine Mammal Regulations to harass orca whales by obstructing the path of the pod or individual and to go within 50 metres of them at a speed of more than five knots.
Anyone with information should phone 0800 DOC HOT (362 468).
Spring gardening tips
Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcare’s Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. You’ll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and let’s dig in.
Click read more for more information.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
.
Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
-
84% Yes
-
14.7% No
-
1.3% Other - I'll share below
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.