Hellicopter Torment: let your voice be heard
The science is settled: good sleep is a necessity not a luxury. Research shows it is fundamental to physical health, mental well-being, performance and safety at work, progress in learning - even immunity to viruses like covid-19!
Personally, I've been spending half my life tortured by sleep deprivation ever since police helicopters began to routinely early morning flyovers of my otherwise peaceful home and street. Last night they woke me 3 times!
There's no doubt that very few of these sortees relate to violent crime.
Surely police chiefs (not the operators just doing their jobs) need to set strict boundaries that consider the wider public good. They must prioritise our health over our property. (there's so much we can do to secure our property, but nothing including ear plugs and expensive secondary glazing will block out the noise of the helicopter!)
If police in other parts can keep their communities safe without a helicopter, the Auckland police can save it for genuine emergencies.
I get that most people are lucky enough to sleep through the noise, or maybe just wake for a moment, but if you or someone you love is part of the large number of people who is suffering terribly, please take a minute to let the police know how you feel. NO MORE OUT OF SIGHT OUT OF MIND!
It's easy to use the online form here: forms.police.govt.nz...
If you'd like to explore other action, drop me a line at sleepisahumanright@gmail.com
timesofindia.indiatimes.com...
Thanks!
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
-
76.3% Yes
-
22.3% No
-
1.4% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
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.
Aroha (Love and Compassion) - Day 14
Tāwhirimātea and the Rescued Tītī Birds
In a time of great storms, Tāwhirimātea, Atua of winds and weather, saw the little tītī (muttonbirds) struggling against fierce gales that had scattered their flock. Though known for his ferocity, Tāwhirimātea felt aroha for the vulnerable birds. He calmed the winds and guided the tītī to shelter, teaching the Atua of the forest, Tāne, how to protect them with his trees. The birds thrived, and in gratitude, they became a source of sustenance and companionship for the people.
Moral: True power lies in compassion, and by caring for others, we create harmony in our world.