Cyclone Gabrielle Update - Get Ready
Auckland Emergency Management are working closely with MetService New Zealand and tracking Cyclone Gabrielle, which is due to start impacting the upper North Island from Sunday.
We encourage our Tāmaki Makaurau whānau to use this time to get prepared.
With potential for heavy rain and strong winds, surface flooding and slips are possible and strong wind gusts could damage trees, powerlines and unsecured structures.
How to get prepared:
1. Stay up to date with the latest weather warnings from MetService: www.metservice.com...
2. Make a household plan that includes your pets, in case you need to evacuate.
3. Have a grab bag with essential items ready to go.
4. Be prepared for possible power outages and check emergency supplies. In a storm you could be stuck at home for up to three days.
5. Clear debris and leaves from drains and gutters to help prevent surface flooding.
6. Secure items like wheelie bins, trampolines, outdoor furniture, boats and trailers. Bring items inside or tie items down that could move in strong winds.
7. Check on your friends, whānau, neighbours and anyone who might need your help, especially those who have already been affected by recent flooding.
Follow Auckland Emergency Management on Facebook or Twitter or visit their website by clicking on 'Read More' to stay updated as this weather system progresses and receive further advice.
For preparedness advice in different languages visit: getready.govt.nz...
Kia kaha Tāmaki Makaurau.
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.
Warnings about scams
This Fraud Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone to stay sharp and look out for the warning signs of scams to stop them before they start.
Here’s what to watch out for:
🔍 Unrealistic offers or promises of easy money that are too good to be true
🔍 Pressure tactics: Scammers may rush or threaten you to act immediately.
🔍 Requests for personal info: Be cautious if you’re asked for bank details, passwords, or sensitive information.
🔍 Unusual payment methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
🔍 Unverified contacts: Emails, calls, or messages from unknown or suspicious sources.
How to protect yourself:
✅ Stop and think before sharing personal details or making payments.
✅ Don't click on any links until you know that it is safe.
✅ Verify the source: Contact the organisation directly using official channels.
✅ If something’s not right, it's OK to hang up, walk away, ignore it and move on.
If you wish to report a scam, contact Police on 105 or report it online via 105.police.govt.nz/use-105.
Tactile texture
Welcome texture into your room by using leftover Resene Anaglypta wallpaper to accentuate furniture and décor items. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.