Health warning lifted for Lake Taupo
The health warning issued last week for parts of Lake Taupo has now been lifted by the Medical Officer of Health.
Observation and water testing by Waikato Regional Council and Taupō District Council confirm that the algal bloom has dispersed in the affected areas of the lake for the time being. Gene testing of samples collected last Friday indicates the algae was not producing toxin then.
The Medical Officer of Health, Dr Jim Miller, advises caution when enjoying any lake or river this summer. "The current warm conditions may encourage algae growth, so it is always safest to check the water before you get in. Look before you leap; if the water looks discoloured, smells unusual, if there is scum on the surface, or the water has green or brown particles suspended in it - then it is best to avoid contact with the water and swim or play somewhere else."
Read more here -
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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84.6% Yes
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13.9% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
It’s Riddle Time – You Might Need an Extra Cup of Coffee!
Nobody has ever walked this way. Which way is it?
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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.