Mānawatia a Matariki ... Happy Māori New Year!
New Zealand officially celebrates Matariki today, a time for remembrance, celebrating the present and looking to the future. This year's theme is Matariki Kāinga Hokia, or Matariki calls you home. People are encouraged to return to their whānau and loved ones, wherever and whoever that might be. To journey home to celebrate, feast and be with whānau and friends.
Circumstances have not been ideal to view the rising of the Matariki star cluster, with the wet weather we're constantly having! There is a chance of clear weather first thing on Saturday and Sunday mornings though, so you might be able to see Matariki, which rises around 5.30am. Te Papa Museum has a great video showing you how to find the Matariki star cluster. You can check it out at youtu.be...
The Saint Johns Butchery store will be CLOSED today (Friday), so our team can return to their whānau and loved ones for the day. We'll be open for business as usual on Saturday and Sunday. Our opening hours this long weekend:
Friday ... CLOSED
Saturday ... 8.00am - 6.00pm
Sunday ... 8.30am - 5.00pm
Mānawatia a Matariki ... Happy Māori New Year!
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?
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77.3% Yes
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21.8% No
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0.9% 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.
Think You’ve Got the Answer? Today’s Riddle Says ‘Prove It’!
If eleven plus two equals one, what does nine plus five equal?
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.
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