Mystery Trip to Upper Hutt
A senior couple paid Air NZ $1500 for a mystery trip. The trip turned out to be the southern city of Invercargill. I would have been slightly annoyed that it wasn't for instance, Queenstown, but i am sure I would have found something that allowed me to have a pleasant time in a city I have never actually been to - and I have been to Queenstown several times.
So the couple complained and got their money back.
What if the couple had found themselves in the city of Upper Hutt and were told that the rules of the mystery trip was that they could not travel to anywhere else but Upper Hutt? Could they have had a great time in a "great" city?
Well they could visit Staglands which is a kind of rugged farmland zoo, they would have to go to Expressions because this place is compulsory viewing. Oh, yes, it might be happiness if their trip coincides with a race day at Trentham, but olay, we now have this craft beer tour and I believe that one of the four craft beer establishments we currently have, now has food available. They could take a walk around Trentham Memorial Park if they are dog fanciers. If the couple are looking for fine dining or a four-five star accommodation then they are probably stretching their luck though Wallaceville House is the best we can offer. And we do have some cafes who give you real Wellington quality coffee. And when its open there is the Devonshire tea barn in Te Marua where their scones are so good that it's a compulsive stop for circuit cyclists.
Is Upper Hutt a better city to visit than Invercargill? Tim Shadbolt would say no.
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)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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85.1% Yes
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13.9% No
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1.1% 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.
BLACKHAWK CORGI RACES SUNDAY NOV 17
Who is the fastest Corgi in NZ?
This will be decided on Sunday, November 17 at Belmont Domain, Lower Hutt with racing starting at 2pm.
Thirty Pembroke and Cardigan Corgis will take to the 60 metre track for racing like no other.
Competition comes from as far away as Auckland and Whanganui and if you want to stretch it a little - Scotland - with the very recent arrival of Skye and his owners from the other side of the world.
The youngest to compete is 7 month old, Atlas whilst Bonnie at 14 years is part of the seniors (nine and over) event.
Spectators very welcome to this sixth annual championship organised by the Wellington Welsh Corgi Club.