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755 days ago

Now Boarding: Maritime Museum’s “Little Tall Ship” Breeze

Emma Clark-Dow Reporter from Central Leader

Good morning neighbours,

The Maritime Museum is excited to announce the return of the brigantine Breeze, starting with fortnightly sailings from Labour Weekend, October 22.

Built by the late Ralph Sewell and his family the two-masted sailing vessel was launched in Coromandel, in October 1981.

The Sewells had an agenda: to construct and sail a nineteenth-century coastal trader to be able to teach old-school skills.

“[Breeze] will enable enthusiasts to further their association with the sea and benefit from the company of kindred spirits,” Sewell wrote.

The "little tall ship" has undergone a significant overhaul since its last public sailing back in 2016.

Vincent Lipanovich, Director of the Maritime Museum, said passengers can expect an “energetic and exciting experience” onboard.

“Sailing on Breeze presents such a unique experience for maritime enthusiasts and novice sailors alike – passengers will be invited to roll their sleeves up and experience the thrill of sailing a traditional vessel as they take in the sights of the Waitematā Harbour," Lipanovich said.

The team planned to set sail in January this year, but was delayed due to rising Covid-19 cases.

"It’s such a special boat and it feels wonderful to finally have this vessel available for people to experience and create new memories," Lipanovich said.

Please visit the Breeze page on the Maritime Museum website for up-to-date information. Due to the dynamic nature of the vessel, passengers must be aged 12 and over. Sailings last three hours as passengers explore the Waitematā Harbour.

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More messages from your neighbours
4 days ago

Poll: Is the increase in disability parking fines fair?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

In October, the fine for parking in a designated mobility car park without a permit has jumped from $150 to $750—a 400% increase!

The goal is to keep these spaces open for those who truly need them. Do you think this big increase in the fine is fair? Share your thoughts below.

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Is the increase in disability parking fines fair?
  • 89% Yes, it's fair
    89% Complete
  • 10.3% No, it's unreasonable
    10.3% Complete
  • 0.7% Other - I'll share below
    0.7% Complete
3068 votes
20 hours ago

2024 NZ Chinese Food and Culture Festival

Brian from Mount Roskill

Get ready for the 2nd annual New Zealand Chinese Food & Culture Festival happening on November 17, 2024 hosted at the Corbans Estate Arts Centre in West Auckland! This year’s festival is going to be bigger, better, and packed with even more mouthwatering food and vibrant cultural performances. After the huge success of last year’s event, we’re bringing fresh ideas and exciting twists to make this an unforgettable celebration of Chinese food and culture—right here in New Zealand!
Expect a dazzling fusion of flavours, traditions, and local charm as the festival brings together delicious Chinese cuisine and unique cultural showcases. This year's event will feature even more food stalls, a wider variety of performances, and some special guests, including the incredibly talented singer Zhang Mengmeng!
With extensive media coverage and buzz from nearly 20 outlets, it's the perfect chance for foodies and cultural enthusiasts alike to show off their talents, share their love for Chinese culture, and create lasting connections. Whether you're a local or coming from overseas, this festival is all about celebrating diversity, unity, and deliciousness.
So, gather your family and friends, and join us for a day filled with tasty eats, awesome entertainment, and lots of fun! Don’t miss out—come celebrate, savour, and make memories at the New Zealand Chinese Food & Culture Festival!
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1 day ago

Smoke in Mt Wellington

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Smoke has been seen coming from the crater of the Auckland maunga Mt Wellington.

Images of the smoke began appearing on social media on Friday afternoon.

Around 1.45pm, Fire and Emergency (Fenz) shift manager Josh Pennefather told the NZ Herald a crew was fighting a fire of about 60 square metres in size.
”It’s spreading up hill … [but] there’s no property at risk at this stage,” Pennefather said.

Six fire trucks were in attendance working to contain a grass fire that's spreading up the maunga.

A helicopter was on its way to assist firefighting efforts, he added.

At 2pm, Pennefather shared that the fire was contained and they were working to extinguish it, including “keeping an eye on a whole bunch of hot spots“.

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