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1452 days ago

High flying West Auckland mum

Caryn Wilkinson Reporter from Community News

A mother of four has realised a 30-year dream to join the Royal New Zealand Air Force.

April Sherman has graduated from a gruelling 14 weeks of training at RNZAF Base Woodbourne.

In 2021, the Hobsonville resident takes on safety and surface trade training- learning to keep aircraft equipment in peak condition.

The 46-year-old spent the past eight years in Australia, some of the time mining in Western Australia.

Family brought her back to New Zealand in 2019, and the chance sighting of an Air Force P-3K2 Orion re-ignited her life-long career dream.

“I lost my dad suddenly at the beginning of last year to cancer, so my priority was to find a job back in New Zealand and take care of my mum,” Sherman said.

“I was too shy as a school leaver back in 1992 to join.

"But I saw an Orion flying above Hobsonville one day after work last year and that rekindled the desire to look at the Air Force."

Sherman said being mentally and physically prepared has led to her success.

“If you’re willing to embrace lessons, make sacrifices, swallow your pride, be patient when others struggle and continue to give everything, you will eventually overcome each obstacle."

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20 days ago

What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.

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22 hours ago

It’s Riddle Time! Beat the Neighbourhood with Your Smarts!

Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

Which of the following words don't belong in the group and why?
CORSET, COSTER, SECTOR, ESCORT, COURTS

Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.

Want to stop seeing riddles in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.

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8 hours ago

Giant toybox, 18-metre tree and festive joy from 'square to square' sprinkle the magic

The Team from Auckland Council

Ready to feel the magic in the heart of the city? ✨ With 22 days of celebrations, the city centre is buzzing with holiday cheer!

🎁 A giant toybox lighting up Aotea Square
🎄 An 18-metre Christmas tree dazzling at Te Komititanga
🎶 Live music, markets, and so much more!