948 days ago

Poll: Who is this year's Prospa Local Business Hero?

Prospa

Small businesses are the backbone of our communities and we are thrilled to give these businesses the recognition they deserve.

With $10,000 worth of prizes up for grabs for our overall winner, we are now looking to you to vote for the most deserving - the 2022 Prospa Local Business Hero.

Excerpts of the nominations are below but click the business name to read it in full. When you've made your choice, go ahead and cast your vote!
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AUCKLAND: Melissa Wallace - Turua Gallery
"Turua Gallery in St Heliers not only brings beautiful artwork to the community, the owners Dean and Melissa also do amazing things for charities...They are just so generous and community-minded that it would be great for something nice to happen for them!"

BAY OF PLENTY: Michaela Wellauer - Full Cycle Bikes
"Michaela and Jon from Full Cycle Bikes in Whakatane go above and beyond in their support of our local biking community. Their generosity sees local families receiving free bikes through the Whanaū on Wheels programme. Many events exist because of their sponsorship. They are good, kind people who do an awful lot that flies under the radar."

CANTERBURY: Rob Fenwick - Fenwicks Pharmacy
"I nominate Robert Fenwick from our local Fenwicks Pharmacy in Kaiapoi. Always a friendly face and always helpful. Robert and staff had to remain open right through the lockdown, really putting themselves on the line. He's been through earthquakes, power cuts, floods and bereavement and he still opens with friendly conversation and a smile."

HAWKE'S BAY-GISBORNE: Jack Van Chan - Bayon Cafe
"Bayon Cafe and Bakery at 18 Carlyle St, Napier. Lovely family-run business with great coffee and the best, large slices of carrot cake in Napier. They also collect for funds to supply educational reading materials for children in their home country, Cambodia."

MANAWATŪ-WHANGANUI: The Team - Aorangi Bulb Nurseries
"NZ Bulbs (Aorangi Nurseries) run by Paul and Len Hoek had a very positive impact during the Covid lockdowns...During the extended lockdowns, their operation kept many people employed and their direct to consumer flower sales brought a touch of colour and break from the monotony to many people. "

NELSON-MARLBOROUGH: Peter & Caroline Pomeroy - Victoria Gardens
"Caroline and Pete of Victoria Gardens, Motueka, are always helpful and cheerful, selling excellent spray-free fruit that they have grown themselves. They looked after their customers through all the lockdowns, even in the face of having to restore their greenhouses and gardens after the disastrous Boxing Day hailstorm of 2020."

NORTHLAND: Tracey Haika - Or Near Offer Village Boutique
"On the main street of Hikurangi, Or Near Offer Boutique offers all sorts of second-hand goods and clothing. The owner, Tracey, really enhances the community spirit of Hikurangi with her friendly and welcoming manner and her beautifully creative, artistic shop exterior shows a truly entrepreneurial spirit. She's very involved in the community and is an inspiration to many in Hikurangi."

OTAGO-SOUTHLAND: Grant Kennedy - Otautau Tractors & Machinery
"Otautau Tractors & Machinery play a big part in keeping the farming industry going in western Southland by being always on call for repairs. Quite often the doors are still open after closing time. The owner, Grant is a volunteer in the Otautau fire brigade, and he is always sponsoring and donating to local groups, even parking classic cars out front for locals to enjoy."

TARANAKI: Paul Gundy - Waitara Bin Inn
"Waitara Bin Inn go the extra mile for their customers,...On a couple of occasions that I know of, items were dropped off a couple of hours north of the shop to customers. Paul has delivered the compost and potting mix for customers so that they didn't have to lift it. All staff have the right attitude of wanting to help you."

WAIKATO: Roger Nicholson - The Backyard Gastro Pub
"The local pub at Whatawhata make great fish n chips with generous servings. They're lifesavers - always there when the power is out on the Raglan side of the Waipa River. We've just had two full days out of power thanks to 'Cyclone Dovi' and they have come through once again. Local saviours!"

WELLINGTON: Josh Coe - Page 42 Cafe
"Page 42 Cafe are great employers who grow the skills of local youth, with a fantastic culture set by the owner Josh. During the pandemic, they had free coffee for critical workers and "Pay what you can afford" days - people can get a meal for $1, or pay more than the menu price to "pay it forward". Constant community support!"

Who is this year's Prospa Local Business Hero?
  • 11.1% AUCKLAND: Melissa Wallace - Turua Gallery
    11.1% Complete
  • 4.9% BAY OF PLENTY: Michaela Wellauer - Full Cycle Bikes
    4.9% Complete
  • 16.9% CANTERBURY: Rob Fenwick - Fenwicks Pharmacy
    16.9% Complete
  • 5.6% HAWKE'S BAY-GISBORNE: Jack Van Chan - Bayon Cafe
    5.6% Complete
  • 9.9% MANAWATŪ-WHANGANUI: The Team - Aorangi Bulb Nurseries
    9.9% Complete
  • 8.1% NELSON-MARLBOROUGH: Peter & Caroline Pomeroy - Victoria Gardens
    8.1% Complete
  • 4.7% NORTHLAND: Tracey Haika - Or Near Offer Village Boutique
    4.7% Complete
  • 3.5% OTAGO-SOUTHLAND: Grant Kennedy - Otautau Tractors & Machinery
    3.5% Complete
  • 7.7% TARANAKI: Paul Gundy - Waitara Bin Inn
    7.7% Complete
  • 6.2% WAIKATO: Roger Nicholson - The Backyard Gastro Pub
    6.2% Complete
  • 21.4% WELLINGTON: Josh Coe - Page 42 Cafe
    21.4% Complete
1050 votes
More messages from your neighbours
2 days ago

Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.

Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.

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Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?
  • 64.1% Yes
    64.1% Complete
  • 33.5% No
    33.5% Complete
  • 2.4% Other - I'll share below
    2.4% Complete
2056 votes
1 day ago

Become an SPCA Foster Hero!

The Team from SPCA Whangarei - Centre & Op Shops

Kitten season has arrived, and over the next six months, over 8,000 cats and kittens will come into SPCA’s care. Please help us give these babies the best start in life and sign up to be a foster parent today! It's not just cats and kittens - we are also urgently seeking foster homes for dogs and small animals.

Fostering saves lives and helps these tiny babies grow into healthy, well-adjusted adults, ready for adoption. We cover all training and costs. All you need is time and love to spare!

Sign up today and save a life!

1 day ago

Tips on Accelerating Your Comfort Level with a New Mattress

Jay from Beds4U Whangarei

Getting started on the quest for the perfect night’s sleep with a new mattress can be exciting, but it often requires a period of adjustment.

If you've recently invested in a new mattress and are wondering about the time frame for adjustment, you're not alone.


Understanding the typical adjustment period can greatly improve your sleep health and ensure you get the most comfort out of your new bed.

The Personal Touch: Individual Variation in Adjustment
When it comes to adapting to a new mattress, there's no one-size-fits-all answer.

The mattress adjustment period can vary significantly depending on a number of personal factors.

Age, health, and even your usual sleep position can influence how quickly you adjust.

Generally, most people take anywhere from a few days up to a month to fully adapt to their new sleeping environment.

During this time, your body is acclimating to the support and feel of the mattress, which may differ significantly from your old one.

Understanding Mattress Types and Their Impact
The type of mattress you choose also plays a crucial role in your adjustment period.

Memory foam, for instance, may require a longer adjustment period as it contours more significantly to your body compared to a traditional spring mattress.

On the other hand, hybrid mattresses—a combination of foam and springs—offer a balance of support and cushioning, which might ease the adaptation process.

Tips for a Smoother Transition
Adapting to your new mattress is not just about waiting it out; there are active steps you can take to make the process smoother:

Maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day sets your body’s internal clock, which can help reduce the adjustment time.

Create a comfortable sleep environment. Ensure your bedroom is conducive to sleep—consider factors like temperature, light, and noise.

Give it time. Even if your new mattress feels different or not quite right initially, give it a few weeks, as initial discomfort is common.
Exploring more about how to enhance your sleep environment for a comfortable sleep, you can check out Beds4U Bedding.

Recognizing the Signs of Successful Adjustment
How do you know if you're well-adjusted to your new mattress?

Look for positive changes in your sleep quality and health.

You should experience less tossing and turning, fewer awakenings through the night, and reduced morning stiffness or soreness.

Increased sleep quality and waking up feeling rested are clear indicators that your body has adapted to the new mattress.

Comfort with Confidence
Adjusting to a new mattress is a unique experience that varies from person to person.

By understanding your needs and the characteristics of different mattress types, along with employing tips to aid the transition, you can enhance your sleep quality significantly.

Remember, a good night's sleep is crucial for your overall health and well-being.

At Beds4U, we are committed to helping you find that perfect sleep solution.

With a wide range of high-quality mattresses and a knowledgeable team eager to assist, finding your ideal comfort is just a visit away.

Explore our latest collections and sales at Beds4U and start enjoying a more comfortable sleep tonight.

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