Health & Safety, Covid-19, and new requirements
I discussed the happenings around WorkSafe and Covid-19 last August in the article, and not a lot has changed. Businesses still need to address their H&S risks reasonably.
However, we have two key changes to consider from the latest Level 4 lockdown and government directives:
1. Contact tracing with an effective recording of all workers and visitors to your business.
2. The discussion and the slippery slope of vaccine passports, something I hope will not become a normal thing in New Zealand.
With the court decision on MIQ workers being sacked, there is a theme that businesses may have to address the vaccine status of their workers on an H&S basis.
This potentially puts businesses at odds with the H&S laws if they have an unvaccinated worker cause an outbreak in the workplace. Something I am sure we will see again.
I feel this is a step too far, but I don't make the rules, so we need to watch this space on what guidance we get from the authorities.
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.
Warnings about scams
This Fraud Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone to stay sharp and look out for the warning signs of scams to stop them before they start.
Here’s what to watch out for:
🔍 Unrealistic offers or promises of easy money that are too good to be true
🔍 Pressure tactics: Scammers may rush or threaten you to act immediately.
🔍 Requests for personal info: Be cautious if you’re asked for bank details, passwords, or sensitive information.
🔍 Unusual payment methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
🔍 Unverified contacts: Emails, calls, or messages from unknown or suspicious sources.
How to protect yourself:
✅ Stop and think before sharing personal details or making payments.
✅ Don't click on any links until you know that it is safe.
✅ Verify the source: Contact the organisation directly using official channels.
✅ If something’s not right, it's OK to hang up, walk away, ignore it and move on.
If you wish to report a scam, contact Police on 105 or report it online via 105.police.govt.nz/use-105.
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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5% Second half of November
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44.6% 1st December
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16.7% A week before Christmas
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32.4% Whenever you wish
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1.3% Other - I'll share below
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