Mechanics Bay, Auckland

1337 days ago

Poll: Should all Auckland shops be allowed to trade on Easter Sunday?

Caryn Wilkinson Reporter from Community News

Restrictions on trading over Easter have frustrated Auckland retailers desperate for business in the wake of four Covid-19 lockdowns.

Only shops selling certain goods can legally trade on Easter Sunday, and those breaching conditions can be fined up to $1000.

But Auckland Mayor Phil Goff says … View more
Restrictions on trading over Easter have frustrated Auckland retailers desperate for business in the wake of four Covid-19 lockdowns.

Only shops selling certain goods can legally trade on Easter Sunday, and those breaching conditions can be fined up to $1000.

But Auckland Mayor Phil Goff says critics have left it too late, as the process to change trading rules can take over a year.

Local government has had the power to rule on whether retailers can open on Easter Sunday since the National government passed the responsibility down in 2016.

Prior to this, only shops that sell necessities, such as dairies, service stations, and pharmacies, were given exemptions to trade.

Thirty-nine of the country’s 67 councils have created bylaws to date allowing retailers to open if they want, but Auckland, Wellington, and other major centres remain opposed.

Newmarket Business Association chief executive Mark Thomas said the restrictions are “ridiculous and out of date”.

“There are so many discrepancies in the law it seems a bit ludicrous,” he said.

*Please put NFP if you do not want your comments used by Stuff.

Should all Auckland shops be allowed to trade on Easter Sunday?
  • 58.3% Yes
    58.3% Complete
  • 38.9% No
    38.9% Complete
  • 2.8% Unsure- it's too complex
    2.8% Complete
1205 votes
1337 days ago

Love rugby? Get all the action delivered straight to your inbox

The Team Reporter from Stuff

Hi neighbours,

We've launched a newsletter to deliver all of the rugby action - from on and off the field - straight to your inbox.

Stuff's Oval Office wraps the weekend's rugby highlights, the casualty ward, stories you might have missed and our team of the week - sent each … View more
Hi neighbours,

We've launched a newsletter to deliver all of the rugby action - from on and off the field - straight to your inbox.

Stuff's Oval Office wraps the weekend's rugby highlights, the casualty ward, stories you might have missed and our team of the week - sent each Monday evening at 7pm.

Love rugby? Sign up here.

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1336 days ago

This Auckland business needs your support!

Prospa

A huge congratulations to Lynnae Palu from F45 Training Takapuna. This local legend is a finalist in the Prospa Local Business Hero Awards.

Now she needs your vote to give them a chance to take home a prize package worth $10,000!

Good on you, and good luck, Lynnae Palu. Thanks for bringing … View more
A huge congratulations to Lynnae Palu from F45 Training Takapuna. This local legend is a finalist in the Prospa Local Business Hero Awards.

Now she needs your vote to give them a chance to take home a prize package worth $10,000!

Good on you, and good luck, Lynnae Palu. Thanks for bringing joy to your community.

***********

Nominated by Becky West from Takapuna: "With no ability to trade in Level 3 or above, they still keep their members engaged and motivated with online workouts and daily challenges even though memberships are on hold and the gym is closed. They really are more like a family than a gym ❤️."
Vote for Lynnae

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1337 days ago

Say NO to short car trips

EECA

Transport is our beautiful country's biggest carbon emitter. In fact, car trips under two kilometres, like popping to the shops, make up nearly 1/3 of our drives — an average of 12 per household per week.

So we're encouraging Kiwis to consider climate-friendly modes of transportView more
Transport is our beautiful country's biggest carbon emitter. In fact, car trips under two kilometres, like popping to the shops, make up nearly 1/3 of our drives — an average of 12 per household per week.

So we're encouraging Kiwis to consider climate-friendly modes of transport such as biking, scooting and walking when making trips under two kilometres.

That's why we've launched the ShopPack - a New Zealand-first backpack-style reusable shopping bag to let you keep your hands free on the move.
Find out more

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1337 days ago

The team from Wee Jobs

Wee Jobs

Hi Neighbours – The team from Wee Jobs would like to introduce Wee Jobs to your community.

We all have small jobs and tasks that come up around the house, waiting for someone with the time and skills to do them. Wee Jobs provides attractively priced solutions with our team of competent staff … View more
Hi Neighbours – The team from Wee Jobs would like to introduce Wee Jobs to your community.

We all have small jobs and tasks that come up around the house, waiting for someone with the time and skills to do them. Wee Jobs provides attractively priced solutions with our team of competent staff who are ready and eager to help you with those small tasks. With Wee Jobs, you know what you’re paying upfront and don’t get billed until the job is completed.

Wee Jobs offers a range of offerings from Light Bulb Replacements, Smoke Alarm Installations, to Kitset Assembly Services (and lots in between). If you can’t find what you are looking for, you can simply ‘request a special job’, and one of our friendly team members will get back to you with a competitive quote. Wee Jobs is brought to you by Wells, who has 35 years of experience and recognition delivering dependable services to New Zealand homes. Book your Wee Job now.
Learn more

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1337 days ago

Incredible new galleries now open at Auckland Museum

The Team from Auckland Museum

Be one of the first to see your city in a whole new light – Tāmaki Herenga Waka Stories of Auckland is now open at Auckland Museum.

With more than 60 stories, 500 objects and 25 films, the new galleries truly have something for everyone.

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1338 days ago

Be water safe and learn to swim

The Team from Auckland Council

Water safety and swimming are key life skills everyone should learn, at any age. Auckland Council has nine swim schools across the region with affordable lessons. All our instructors are AUSTSWIM qualified.

With three beautiful harbours, more than 3000km of coastline and a few backyard swimming… View more
Water safety and swimming are key life skills everyone should learn, at any age. Auckland Council has nine swim schools across the region with affordable lessons. All our instructors are AUSTSWIM qualified.

With three beautiful harbours, more than 3000km of coastline and a few backyard swimming pools, Auckland is surrounded by water for you to swim, fish and play in. To enjoy everything Auckland has to offer, we need to know how to be safe and survive in and around water.

Make water safety a priority; find out more about swimming lessons at aucklandleisure.co.nz/activities/learn-to-swim. Our swim school at Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre is already full so make sure you get in quick!
Learn more

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1338 days ago

Resene Upcyling Awards - Start Submitting!

Resene

Don't forget to submit your upcycled creations in the Resene Upcycling Awards. Whether it's an old item you've spruced up or something you've found a completely new purpose for, we want to see your work!

Submit your entry in the 2021 Resene Upcycling Awards by sharing your … View more
Don't forget to submit your upcycled creations in the Resene Upcycling Awards. Whether it's an old item you've spruced up or something you've found a completely new purpose for, we want to see your work!

Submit your entry in the 2021 Resene Upcycling Awards by sharing your upcycled masterpiece with your neighbours. Multiple entries are welcome - don't forget to include your before and after pics and mention any Resene products you've used!
Get Upcycling now

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1339 days ago

Say NO to short car trips

EECA

Transport is our beautiful country's biggest carbon emitter. In fact, car trips under two kilometres, like popping to the shops, make up nearly 1/3 of our drives — an average of 12 per household per week.

So we're encouraging Kiwis to consider climate-friendly modes of transportView more
Transport is our beautiful country's biggest carbon emitter. In fact, car trips under two kilometres, like popping to the shops, make up nearly 1/3 of our drives — an average of 12 per household per week.

So we're encouraging Kiwis to consider climate-friendly modes of transport such as biking, scooting and walking when making trips under two kilometres.

That's why we've launched the ShopPack - a New Zealand-first backpack-style reusable shopping bag to let you keep your hands free on the move.
Find out more

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1340 days ago

Poll: Prospa Local Business Hero - who gets your vote?

Prospa

Small businesses need our support. We are proud to be celebrating our 10 regional 2021 Prospa Local Business Heroes for their commitment to their communities. 

They now need your help! We are now looking for the New Zealand Prospa Local Business Hero - our overall winner, as voted by … View more
Small businesses need our support. We are proud to be celebrating our 10 regional 2021 Prospa Local Business Heroes for their commitment to their communities. 

They now need your help! We are now looking for the New Zealand Prospa Local Business Hero - our overall winner, as voted by Neighbourly members around the country!

This lucky business will walk away with $10,000 worth of prizes!

Please take a couple of minutes to read the nominations below - then vote for the business you'd like to see named 2021 Prospa Local Business Hero.
______________________________________________________

NORTHLAND: Wayne and Kate - Engraving Systems
"Wayne and Kate have been trying to support all the local sports clubs and businesses with great service and going that extra mile to help. They really have brought some life back into the community and should be acknowledged and rewarded for all the hard work."

AUCKLAND: Lynnae Palu - F45 Training Takapuna
"With no ability to trade in Level 3 or above, they still keep their members engaged and motivated with online workouts and daily challenges even though memberships are on hold and the gym is closed. They really are more like a family than a gym ❤️."

WAIKATO: Team at Incredible India - Incredible India Restaurant
"Not only do they make the most authentic, delicious Indian food. Their service is thoughtful and kind. We always feel appreciated for using their establishment, either by the warm greeting we get, the offer of a drink if we are waiting for take-out and their cute handwritten messages on the carry bag of dinner. They put the effort into the whole package not just making money."

BAY OF PLENTY: Team at Benny and Brew - Benny and Brew
"Our neighbourhood was missing a great cafe and meeting place. Since Benny and Brew have opened they have given our neighbourhood a massive lift. It's a place where you go for the people and the food and drink are delicious which is icing on the cake. For a bit, they were operating as a French bistro and the food was to die for! These guys have worked so hard and brought such joy to our neighbourhood"

HAWKE’S BAY - GISBORNE: Jazz and his family - Bossman Dairy - Creagh St Store
"Every member of this family who serves in the shop are very friendly, helpful and always smiling. They get to know all their customers and I have never walked into a shop that makes you feel so welcome. During our first lockdown for Covid, they put food such as milk, bread, out for people who may need it free of charge."

TARANAKI: Reece and family - Valentine's Valet
"Reece the owner of Valentine’s Valet, often helped by his Dad, mainly deals with lawns and gardens but he runs both a Carpet Cleaning and a Car Buffing business also. He is extremely hard-working, helpful and friendly and is happy to do the odd job that doesn’t fall into one of his usual categories. He comes to us fortnightly and we could not do without him. If anyone deserves an award it is — Reece Valentine!"

MANAWATU-WANGANUI: Jamie - JD Hair Design
"Jamie is amazing - not only does he offer incredible haircuts at an affordable price he is a genuinely caring man. With a heart of gold, everyone is whānau to him and he treats you like it. I always leave his salon looking fabulous but also feeling fabulous. He is the type of man that fills your inner well of good feelings while he makes you feel and look special."

WELLINGTON: Meredith and Craig - Avalon Service Centre
"Meredith and Craig Butland and their team do a wonderful job and go the extra mile to make sure every job is to the customer's satisfaction. They drop people at their workplaces and pick them up when work on the car is finished. They take the time to talk to customers about anything and are great neighbours to the local residents. Avalon Service Centre are definitely our local heroes in Avalon."

NELSON - MARLBOROUGH: Mary Jane and Colin - Lemon Tree Lane
"Lemon Tree Lane is a great big little gift shop. I am so grateful for Mary Jane and Colin's 'You are very welcome' and 'it's no trouble at all' attitude. Their prices are very reasonable, they always happily gift wrap with beautiful papers and ribbons as a part of their service. I truly can't speak highly enough of this community-minded couple and their classy, extensive range of items that never leave us disappointed."

CANTERBURY - WEST: Troy Cameron - ATC Accounting Services
"Troy Cameron is a local accountant. He is an awesome family man and it is not unusual to see Matilda, his Kune Kune pig, snuggled up with his dog and daughter in his lounge. It was the flying pig on his flyer that made me call him 2 years ago and as we had just gone into business which was scary in itself, let alone dealing with an accountant, we have never looked back. Troy goes the extra mile and his fees are more than reasonable"

OTAGO - SOUTHLAND: Richard Smith - CJ Sinclair
"The owner is Richard Smith whose family have been in the motor trade in the Ranfurly Naseby area for over 100 years. During the last years lock down our car broke down leaving us feeling quite uncomfortable as we live some distance from medical & other services. Richard came to our rescue. We need such companies and people in our rural areas. Richard demonstrates such excellent attributes required in our area."

Prospa Local Business Hero - who gets your vote?
  • 5.7% NORTHLAND: Wayne and Kate - Engraving Systems
    5.7% Complete
  • 13.8% AUCKLAND: Lynnae Palu - F45 Training Takapuna
    13.8% Complete
  • 7.7% WAIKATO: Team at Incredible India - Incredible India Restaurant
    7.7% Complete
  • 5.9% BAY OF PLENTY: Team at Benny and Brew - Benny and Brew
    5.9% Complete
  • 15.2% HAWKE’S BAY - GISBORNE: Jazz and his family - Bossman Dairy - Creagh St Store
    15.2% Complete
  • 5.2% TARANAKI: Reece and family - Valentine's Valet
    5.2% Complete
  • 9.7% MANAWATU-WANGANUI: Jamie - JD Hair Design
    9.7% Complete
  • 13.9% WELLINGTON: Meredith and Craig - Avalon Service Centre
    13.9% Complete
  • 11.8% NELSON - MARLBOROUGH: Mary Jane and Colin - Lemon Tree Lane
    11.8% Complete
  • 7.3% CANTERBURY - WEST: Troy Cameron - ATC Accounting Services
    7.3% Complete
  • 3.8% OTAGO - SOUTHLAND: Richard Smith - CJ Sinclair
    3.8% Complete
1034 votes
1341 days ago

Auckland’s draft 10-year Regional Land Transport Plan headed for public consultation

Dee Sims from Waitematā Local Board

Public consultation on Auckland Transport's draft regional transport plan for the next 10 years will take place from 29 March to 2 May 2021. Read More. 👇

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1343 days ago

Houseplants looking sick? The plant doctor answers your questions

Mikaela Wilkes Reporter from Homed

Hi neighbours,
Thank you to everyone who submitted questions about their sickly plant babies. Houseplants might be fashionable, but they can be tricky to get right. Whether it’s the wrong light, too much or too little water, or a pesky draft, it doesn’t take much for your prize peace lily to … View more
Hi neighbours,
Thank you to everyone who submitted questions about their sickly plant babies. Houseplants might be fashionable, but they can be tricky to get right. Whether it’s the wrong light, too much or too little water, or a pesky draft, it doesn’t take much for your prize peace lily to turn yellow or an infestation of bugs to set in.

We put some of your houseplant questions to the plant doctors from Kings Plant Barn to diagnose. Find their answers here.

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1342 days ago

Great North Road upgrade must work for communities as well as commuters

Dee Sims from Waitematā Local Board

Auckland Transport (AT) is asking for feedback on a series of proposals which, if implemented, would include major changes to Great North Road from Karangahape Road to Grey Lynn. The proposal is open for public feedback until 7 May 2021. Read More to find out more and to have your say.

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1343 days ago

ReStore charity shop in Panmure

Habitat for Humanity

The Habitat for Humanity ReStore charity shop in Panmure is open 7 days a week for shopping and receiving donations! If you’re looking for a deal or would like to make a donation of pre-loved furniture, clothing or home appliances; come visit us today at 131 Pilkington Road.
 
To be in the … View more
The Habitat for Humanity ReStore charity shop in Panmure is open 7 days a week for shopping and receiving donations! If you’re looking for a deal or would like to make a donation of pre-loved furniture, clothing or home appliances; come visit us today at 131 Pilkington Road.
 
To be in the chance to win a $100 voucher to spend at the ReStore; check out our competition on Facebook here.
 
Our mission at Habitat is to provide local Kiwi families with strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter. You can make a difference today as every donation and sale at the ReStore charity shop goes towards supporting local Kiwi families in housing need.
 
Noreen Tangianau
Habitat for Humanity ReStore Panmure – Manager
Find out more

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1360 days ago

Missing French teen Eloi Rolland: Friends and family still have no answers a year on

Caroline Williams Reporter from Auckland Stuff

In 2019, French teenager Eloi Rolland arrived in New Zealand to study. He partied, got a job and made friends. But six months later he disappeared without a trace. A year on, police say “his fate remains unknown” and his case looks set to be referred to the coroner. Caroline Williams reports.

View more
In 2019, French teenager Eloi Rolland arrived in New Zealand to study. He partied, got a job and made friends. But six months later he disappeared without a trace. A year on, police say “his fate remains unknown” and his case looks set to be referred to the coroner. Caroline Williams reports.

During his time in Auckland, Rolland went to the zoo, enjoyed nights out, worked at a popular bar, dabbled in modelling and, with friends, visited Piha on the rugged west coast.

Before his disappearance, Rolland expressed to his family that he wished to visit Piha again, and on March 6 last year, he did just that.

He has not been seen or heard from since.

“Each day we feel more and more worried and more helpless," his father Thierry Rolland tells Stuff.

Click 'read more' for our full report.

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