Grey Lynn, Auckland

Does your organisation need new flooring?

Does your organisation need new flooring?

Apply for up to $2,000 and also be in to win a $20,000 makeover.

7 days ago

Georgina's Rhubarb Crumble

Charles Upham Retirement Village

Craving a dessert that makes the most of spring's fresh produce? Look no further than Georgina's signature Rhubarb Crumble.

This delicious treat has become a favourite at Ryman’s Bert Sutcliffe Village, where the sweet and tangy aroma often wafts through the air, tempting neighbours … View more
Craving a dessert that makes the most of spring's fresh produce? Look no further than Georgina's signature Rhubarb Crumble.

This delicious treat has become a favourite at Ryman’s Bert Sutcliffe Village, where the sweet and tangy aroma often wafts through the air, tempting neighbours in for a taste. It’s also a hit with Georgina's 13-year-old granddaughter, Brooklyn, who loves serving it warm with gooey custard or a scoop of melting vanilla ice cream.

Click read more for the recipe.

Image
7 days ago

Christmas Reward Charts & Santa Sacks

Janai from Sandringham

Selling these two reward charts and two Santa sacks as no longer required.

Brand new and not used so perfect condition.

From smoke and pet free home.

The Santa sack is a canvas material and you can write your child’s name on it. Approx 27cm across and 48cm length.

Pick up is in Sandringham … View more
Selling these two reward charts and two Santa sacks as no longer required.

Brand new and not used so perfect condition.

From smoke and pet free home.

The Santa sack is a canvas material and you can write your child’s name on it. Approx 27cm across and 48cm length.

Pick up is in Sandringham (near St Luke’s mall).

Price: $15

7 days ago

Breaking the Cycle of Taha Tinana (Physical Cravings) - Day 11

Kiran Reddy from Mount Eden

Breaking the Cycle of Taha Tinana (Physical Cravings)

In te ao Māori (the Māori worldview), humans are seen as beings of both taha tinana (the physical realm) and taha wairua (the spiritual realm). A balance between these aspects is essential for well-being. When we focus solely on satisfying … View more
Breaking the Cycle of Taha Tinana (Physical Cravings)

In te ao Māori (the Māori worldview), humans are seen as beings of both taha tinana (the physical realm) and taha wairua (the spiritual realm). A balance between these aspects is essential for well-being. When we focus solely on satisfying our physical cravings—kai (food), moe (rest), hiahia (desires), and mataku (fear)—we risk losing our connection to wairuatanga (spirituality) and mauri (life force).

The Story of Tūmaro and the Sacred Rākau (Tree)

Once, a man named Tūmaro roamed the vast ngahere (forest) in search of a better life. He was tired, hungry, and filled with uncertainty about his future. As the sun blazed above him, he cried out to the atua (gods), seeking their guidance.

Hearing his plea, Tāne Mahuta, the atua of the forests, sent him a gift: a rākau manaaki (sacred tree) with the power to grant wishes. Exhausted, Tūmaro lay beneath the tree, and his first wish was for moe (rest). The tree immediately granted his desire, providing a cool shade, soft moss, and a gentle breeze that lulled him into a deep sleep.

When he awoke, his puku (stomach) growled with hunger. Without thinking, he wished for kai, and the tree responded with an abundance of delicious hākari (feast). He devoured it greedily, thanking no one for the gift.

Feeling satisfied, his mind wandered to hiahia (desire). Tūmaro wished for a companion to bring him pleasure and ease his loneliness. The tree granted this wish too, and soon he became absorbed in his desires, forgetting his original prayer to the atua.

As the day turned to night, Tūmaro became aware of the darkening ngahere and the distant calls of kēhua (spirits). Fear crept into his mind, and he thought, “What if a wild beast comes to attack me?” As soon as the thought arose, the sacred tree granted it—a kurī ngaro (ferocious beast) appeared and devoured him.

---
The Lesson of Tūmaro

The kaumātua (elders) who shared this story taught that Tūmaro’s downfall was not caused by the rākau manaaki but by his own lack of balance. By giving in entirely to taha tinana (physical cravings) without nurturing his taha wairua (spiritual self), he created a cycle that led to his destruction.
---

Values Reflected in the Story

1. Whanaungatanga (Connection): Tūmaro failed to acknowledge the atua and his connection to the world around him. Gratitude and mindfulness strengthen our relationships with others and with te taiao (the environment).

2. Wairuatanga (Spirituality): The story reminds us that taha wairua must be nurtured alongside taha tinana. Practices such as karakia (prayers) and aroha ki te Atua (love for the gods) maintain spiritual balance.

3. Manaakitanga (Respect and Care): Instead of respecting the sacred gift of the tree, Tūmaro became consumed by his personal desires, neglecting the importance of moderation and care.

4. Kaitiakitanga (Guardianship): The sacred tree symbolises the resources of Papatūānuku (Earth Mother), which must be used responsibly, with gratitude and care.

---
Moral of the Story

The story of Tūmaro teaches us that balance is the key to a fulfilling life. Pursuing the needs of taha tinana without acknowledging taha wairua leads to imbalance and harm. To thrive, we must practice gratitude, moderation, and mindfulness. As values remind us, nurturing our spiritual connection ensures harmony within ourselves, our whānau, and the wider world.

In Tūmaro’s story, the sacred rākau served not only as a gift but also as a reminder of the power of our intentions and the need to honor both physical and spiritual well-being.

7 days ago

Retire in comfort and security

Greenview Park Village

Premium care just meters away form our village. Join our caring community, where passion thrives. Trust Terrace Kennedy House for exceptional care and meaningful connections. Find out more

Image
D
8 days ago

Meditation Introductory

Durba from Mount Eden

A four-part progressive course introducing the essentials of meditation and a wide canvas of differing methods to get you underway. The accent is on guided practice, with several progressive meditations each evening.

Guest teacher Jogyata spent many years under the guidance of the late Indian … View more
A four-part progressive course introducing the essentials of meditation and a wide canvas of differing methods to get you underway. The accent is on guided practice, with several progressive meditations each evening.

Guest teacher Jogyata spent many years under the guidance of the late Indian spiritual master Sri Chinmoy, and brings a wealth of practical experience, personal stories and insights to share. His w/shops are known for their encouragement, inspiration and simplicity.


When: Consecutive Tues Nov 26; Dec 3, 10, 17;
7pm – 8:30pm
Where: 89 Dominion Rd, Mt Eden. Cnr of the Dominion Rd/Tawari Street.


Registration is encouraged to ensure seating space – simply text your name/contact details to Jogyata: 0221887432.

Image
D
8 days ago

RE: Hosting a FREE inspirational talk by Harita Davies

Durba from Mount Eden

Kia Ora
I would like to introduce you to Harita Davies, our national record holder in 3100-Mile race.

Harita is the only New Zealand woman to ever attempt and complete the world's longest certified running race, the 3100-Mile race (94km for 52 days and 28 pairs of running shoes!) The … View more
Kia Ora
I would like to introduce you to Harita Davies, our national record holder in 3100-Mile race.

Harita is the only New Zealand woman to ever attempt and complete the world's longest certified running race, the 3100-Mile race (94km for 52 days and 28 pairs of running shoes!) The Self-Transcendence 3,100-Mile Race, described as “The Mount Everest of Ultramarathons” by the New York Times, requires competitors to maintain an average of 60 miles a day, amounting to over two marathons every day for 52 days!

Each year, contestants are drawn to the 3100-mile ultra for often inner reasons. Testing their physical and mental limits, with a curiosity about human potential itself. The race promises personal growth and self-discovery. Participants come from around the world to shatter their perceived limitations and discover a deeper sense of self. Only six women have ever completed the 3100-mile distance since its inception in 1997.

Please listen to Harita's many interviews with RNZ - www.rnz.co.nz...
Watch a trailer about the award-winning documentary covering the 3100 Mile Race -
www.youtube.com...

Accompanying her will be Preetidutta Thorpe, ultra marathon runner and a former Olympic-level contender in sailing who has just completed the Everest Marathon last year.

For Harita, meditation is the ultimate game changer in her running. This holistic approach cultivates peak performance and nurtures a deeper sense of well-being, She believes that caring for our own sense of peace is one of the most powerful contributions we can make to creating a better and more peaceful world.

Kindly get in touch if you would like to have Harita talk to your school/class about her experience and share a few simple practical meditation techniques to cope with stress, improve focus and cultivate resilience. The duration and depth of the subject matter can be tailored to suit.

Harita, now living in the US, and will be back in Auckland on Wednesday 12 February.

I look forward to the opportunity to discuss any possibilities for inspiring your school community to take the first step.

Warmest regards,
Durba Lee Preetidutta Thorpe
Mobile: 0220 653 719 Mobile: 0220 814 727

Sri Chinmoy Centre

16 days ago

Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

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?

Image
When should the tree go up? 🎄
  • 4.6% Second half of November
    4.6% Complete
  • 43.6% 1st December
    43.6% Complete
  • 17.5% A week before Christmas
    17.5% Complete
  • 32.9% Whenever you wish
    32.9% Complete
  • 1.2% Other - I'll share below
    1.2% Complete
2947 votes
C
8 days ago

Choose the perfect Xmas Tree at Cara's Christmas Trees, 19 Clifton Rd, Herne Bay

Cara from Herne Bay

Fresh Xmas trees are available for sale from Thursday 11am
Then daily 8am - 6.30pm
at 19 Clifton Rd, Herne Bay
Come & choose your perfect tree from our range of sizes:
Small tree: 4.6' - 5 ½ ft, 1.4m - 1.6m $55 - $60
Medium tree 6 - 6.6' ft, 1.6m - 2m $70 - $80
Large… View more
Fresh Xmas trees are available for sale from Thursday 11am
Then daily 8am - 6.30pm
at 19 Clifton Rd, Herne Bay
Come & choose your perfect tree from our range of sizes:
Small tree: 4.6' - 5 ½ ft, 1.4m - 1.6m $55 - $60
Medium tree 6 - 6.6' ft, 1.6m - 2m $70 - $80
Large trees 7' - 7.6 ft, 2m - 2.3m $85 - $100
Ultra size XL 8 ft+ 2.4m+ very large $160 - pre order Ultras as only cut to order, 021 211 1246
Parking in driveway or roadside.
www.directtoys.co.nz...

8 days ago

The Story of Tahu and the Sacred Visitor - Day 10

Kiran Reddy from Mount Eden

In a small kāinga (village) nestled by the ngahere (forest), lived an elderly woman named Tahu. She was a simple kuia (elder), devoted to the atua and known for her aroha (love and compassion). Though she lived humbly, Tahu’s heart was rich with kindness and her hands were always busy caring for… View moreIn a small kāinga (village) nestled by the ngahere (forest), lived an elderly woman named Tahu. She was a simple kuia (elder), devoted to the atua and known for her aroha (love and compassion). Though she lived humbly, Tahu’s heart was rich with kindness and her hands were always busy caring for others in her community.

One night, Tahu had a vision during her karakia (prayers). The atua spoke to her, saying that a great rangatira (chief) on a sacred journey would one day visit her home. This visitor would be a symbol of mana (prestige) and the spirit of aroha. Tahu woke with a sense of purpose and spent her days preparing for this rangatira’s arrival.

She tidied her whare (home) and tended to her māra (garden), ensuring everything was in perfect condition. Each day, she gathered the freshest kumara and sweetest berries from the ngahere, tasting them carefully to ensure they were fit for her guest. Although her people sometimes laughed at her efforts, saying, “Tahu, why prepare so much for someone who might never come?” she remained steadfast in her devotion.

One day, the great rangatira, Tāwhirimātea, arrived at her humble whare with his companion. Tahu’s heart swelled with joy as she welcomed them, offering water and the food she had so carefully prepared.

However, one of Tāwhirimātea’s companions noticed Tahu tasting the berries before offering them. He frowned and whispered, “It is disrespectful to offer food that has already been tasted.”

But Tāwhirimātea smiled and replied, “You judge her actions, but I understand her intentions. Tahu is not tasting out of disrespect—she is ensuring that only the sweetest and best berries are served. It is her aroha that makes this kai truly sacred.” He ate the berries with gratitude, blessing Tahu for her kindness.

The atua smiled upon Tahu, and the mana of her aroha inspired her whānau to live with the same compassion and care for others.

---
Moral of the Story

This story teaches that acts of aroha (love and compassion), no matter how humble, hold the greatest mana. True kindness is not measured by wealth or grandeur but by the heart and intention behind our actions. Like Tahu, we are reminded to serve others with sincerity and respect, knowing that aroha strengthens the bonds of whānau and community.

9 days ago

VANS trainers, very pretty summer design

Liz from Auckland Central

VANS trainers, hardly worn, pretty soft colours perfect for the summer. Size 39, womens. Pick up from CBD preferred, but may be able to deliver elsewhere.

Price: $39

9 days ago

DONNA KAREN - DKNY - designer denim hooded jacket

Liz from Auckland Central

Unusual American designer DKNY, designer denim hooded jacket in good condition to fit small - I would say 6 to 8. Auckland pick up preferably from CBD, but open to other areas.

Price: $38

9 days ago

Brand new. Vodafone HG659 modem

Diana from Mount Eden

This is brand new, still in the box.

Pick up only

Location is Mt Eden, Auckland- Dominion Rd/Valley Rd area

Price: $50

9 days ago

The Influence of the Whānau - Day 9

Kiran Reddy from Mount Eden

In a small Māori pā (village) nestled beside a flowing river, a young boy named Rangi lived with his whānau. Rangi was curious and adventurous, always exploring the ngahere (forest) and listening to the stories of his kaumātua (elders). The kaumātua would often remind him, “He waka eke … View moreIn a small Māori pā (village) nestled beside a flowing river, a young boy named Rangi lived with his whānau. Rangi was curious and adventurous, always exploring the ngahere (forest) and listening to the stories of his kaumātua (elders). The kaumātua would often remind him, “He waka eke noa”—we are all in this together, and our actions affect the collective.

Rangi's best friend, Manu, was a clever boy but sometimes made poor choices. Manu had recently begun spending time with a group of older boys from another pā who were known for their reckless behavior. They would waste kai (food), leave rubbish in the ngahere, and even disturb the sacred awa (river) by throwing stones at eels.

One day, Manu invited Rangi to join the group, saying, “Come on, Rangi! They’re fun, and they won’t hurt anyone. We’re just having a good time!” Unsure, Rangi agreed, feeling pressure to fit in.

The group’s leader, Matiu, proposed a game: they would sneak into the kaumātua's kumara patch at night and take some for a "feast." Rangi hesitated. He remembered the kaumātua saying how much work went into growing the kumara, with karakia (prayers) and care for the soil. But he stayed silent, feeling outnumbered.

That night, the group raided the garden. As they laughed and ate the stolen kumara by the fire, Rangi felt uneasy. He realized that this was not who he wanted to be. When he saw Manu’s joy in impressing Matiu, Rangi felt torn but remained quiet.

The next morning, the kaumātua discovered the missing kumara and the trampled garden. They called the entire pā together, expressing sadness, not anger. “Our ancestors teach us that the whenua (land) provides for all of us, but only if we treat it with respect,” said one elder. “When we harm the whenua, we harm ourselves.”

Rangi’s heart sank. That evening, he confessed to the kaumātua and his whānau, explaining everything. To his surprise, they did not scold him harshly. Instead, they said, “He tangata tītoki, he tangata rākau—a person is like a tree; they grow straight when supported by others. You must choose companions who uphold the values of your whānau and whenua.”

Rangi decided to distance himself from Manu’s new group and instead spent time with those who respected the land and upheld the teachings of their ancestors. Over time, he encouraged Manu to rejoin him, and together they worked to rebuild the kumara patch, learning from the kaumātua.

---
Moral

This story highlights the importance of right company and like-mindedness. It shows that no one is inherently bad, but the influence of others and the situations we choose can lead us astray. Surrounding ourselves with those who uphold values like respect, care, and collective well-being ensures a life of balance and harmony.

Ka mua, ka muri — by learning from the past, we can walk into the future.

15 days ago

What's your favourite tomato recipe?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

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 … View moreKia 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.

Image
Top