THANK YOU to the entire NEIGHBOURLY team!!!
As we wrap up for the holidays, and on behalf of everyone on this platform, I want to take a moment to thank you'll for your continued support throughout the year. It’s been really nice to have the opportunity to read such wonderful messages, so many interesting articles posted by like-minded members of the community, both near and afar and attend so many community activities and events across the year.
Yes, 2023 hasn't been without it's challenges. We’ve faced some tough financial times with rising costs and a growing population, so are very grateful for the many opportunities you provided by way of competitions and worthy prizes. Thank you again for taking the time to send us your input, when required, and it was invaluable to us.
2024 will certainly bring new and familiar challenges, but in the meantime, we wish each one of you and your whānau a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. STAY BLESSED.
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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.
Farmers Santa Parade
Every year, the Farmers Santa Parade marks the beginning of the festive season in Aotearoa, sprinkling magic, song, and dance down Auckland's Queen Street. Next month, the parade will return for its 91st year with an unmissable line-up of family favourites, including children's television phenomenon Bluey.
Spectators can expect to see the parade hero, Santa, alongside a suite of new characters and floats, including one constructed entirely of LEGO®.
Kiwi fans of Bluey will see their favourite blue pup in person as she makes a trip to Auckland to star on her very own float in the event. Bluey and Bingo will also make a special appearance at Santa's Party at the close of the parade.
After representing Aotearoa at the 2024 Olympics, gold medallist Hamish Kerr will be opening the parade as this year's official grand marshal and leading the iconic procession of festive floats including one inspired by K-pop, in the shape of a giant pink guitar and a nostalgic Kiwiana caravan float that encapsulates summer in Aotearoa.
Local community groups, such as Central Auckland Flip N Fly Circus School and South Auckland Cook Island Community Dance School, will perform throughout the parade, bringing their impressive skills to the street.
Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure the perfect viewing spot for this cherished holiday tradition.
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Postponement Date: Sunday 1st December 2024
Pre-Parade Entertainment: 12pm – 1pm
Parade: 1 – 2.30pm
Santa’s Party: 2.30pm – 5pm
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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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17.1% A week before Christmas
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32.1% Whenever you wish
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1.2% Other - I'll share below