This week’s AMI Kind Neighbours are Grant and Annette, nominated by Olga Reid from Stoke.
Neighbourly gems are getting shout outs all over the country on our AMI Kind Neighbour Page. Have you got a good sort worthy of recognition? Get your nominations in here.
“I am 83 living alone. My neighbours Grant and Annette Phillips were wonderful during the lockdown, getting my shopping and taking me to the dentist when I broke my dentures and had no way of getting them mended. When I needed help in an emergency they were there for me reattaching the connections under my bed which I could not get to.They have taken me to doctors appointments and helped when I needed help in the house after a fall and when my Medic Alarm has been activated.”
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.
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?
-
5.1% Second half of November
-
44.3% 1st December
-
16.9% A week before Christmas
-
32.5% Whenever you wish
-
1.2% Other - I'll share below
Message from Cancer Society
Message from Cancer Society National Office
I hope you’re doing well. With summer here, I thought now would be a good time to get in touch. My name is Hazel and I am the National Advisor for SunSmart with the Cancer Society.
Did you know that Aotearoa New Zealand has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world? In fact, over 90,000 skin cancers are diagnosed every year. UV radiation, even on overcast days, can damage our skin and increase the risk of skin cancer. So, I wanted to remind everyone to be SunSmart – it’s so easy!
Remember to Slip, Slop, Slap and Wrap. I am sure you have heard of it, here’s the details:
Slip on clothing with good UV radiation protection - preferably long sleeves, and fabrics with darker colours and tighter weaves. Also, Slip into shade - particularly between 10am and 4pm when UV radiation is strongest.
Slop on broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen of at least SPF 30. Be sure to apply generously to all exposed skin and really every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
Slap on a wide-brimmed hat that shades your face, ears, and neck.
Wrap on UV-protective sunglasses to protect your eyes from damage. Remember, not all sunglasses protect from UV radiation.
Know the UV Index:
The UV Index helps us understand how strong the sun’s UV radiation is on any given day. When the UV Index is 3 or above, we need to be SunSmart. Check out the UVNZ app for more information.
Check your skin:
Regularly check your skin for any new moles, spots, or changes – early detection is key to catching skin cancer early. If you notice any unusual changes, see your doctor.
By making these simple changes to our daily routine we can help protect ourselves, and those we care about, from the harmful effects of UV radiation. For more information, tips, and resources, please visit the SunSmart website.