Royal Oak, Auckland

Night closures SH16 The Strand

Night closures SH16 The Strand

From 30 March to 3 April SH16 The Strand will be closed from 9pm-5am from Quay Street/Tamaki Drive to Beach Road.

33 days ago

Old Newspapers - any use?

Carol from Hillsborough

I've this pile of old newspapers that someone may have a use for otherwise it's into the re-cycling.

Free

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33 days ago

cardboard boxes

Ainslie from Epsom

Free clean large cardboard boxes - 2 boxes approx 1.5 metres long x 1 metre deep, 6 approx 1m long all assembled.
Please contact 027 22 333 04

Free

33 days ago

How to write emails that don't trigger rage and frustration

Brian from Mount Roskill

Just start with a hello, and say hope you’re well. There’s nothing gentle about gentle reminders. And the email never finds you well. Nothing annoys working professionals more than emails with vague flatteries, unnecessary niceties or even passive-aggressive follow ups. “As per my last … View moreJust start with a hello, and say hope you’re well. There’s nothing gentle about gentle reminders. And the email never finds you well. Nothing annoys working professionals more than emails with vague flatteries, unnecessary niceties or even passive-aggressive follow ups. “As per my last email…” is a sure way for your email to be left on hold.
There are several ‘Dos and Don’t’s’ when writing a professional email. “Emails can be irritating. First of all, you can’t see the person. Often, you might not know the person. So, it’s already very hard to connect with someone you can’t see or don’t even know. So a lot depends on the tone of the email, and how they explain the context,”.
Remember, a working professional is already swamped with a million emails a day; a vague, generic, aggressive or meaningless one filled with false niceties will either elicit an angry, irritated response, or just be left unread. Or, possibly, sent to trash.

Emails can be irritating. A lot depends on the tone of the person in the email and how they explain the context. They need to be empathetic to connect with the other person. For example, they can start an email by saying I know you must be busy...

Skip the dears, dearests and dearie
“No one’s so dear to you, you aren’t writing to your grandmother,” “I’ve deleted emails from people who addressed me as dearest,”. She has been called dearie too, much to her shock. “I’ve had to remind people to not address me like that,”.

So, avoid the over-familiarity. No one’s your lovely, dear or honey at work. “I can’t stand over-familiarity from people that I do not know,”, an American freelancing writer. “I dislike it when strangers write emails addressing me as ‘lovely’. It’s like ‘Hey lovely, thought I will check in…’ and the email is followed by some irrelevant announcement,” Be professional, friendly, but without going overboard.

Be specific in your subject line
For all you know, your recipient might be subjected to a flood of emails a day. They don’t have time to read each email. They’ll probably just look at the subject and see if it’s worth their time. If they don’t find it so, it usually remains unread or goes to trash. So keep the subject line short, Get to the point. Many people won’t have the patience to read an email with a blank subject or something vague or generic. “I wouldn’t read an email with the subject ‘just checking in’ or ‘greetings’. So, keep your subject short; let it capture the essence of your email, like a headline," Otherwise, you and your email are ignored.

The email never finds you well
Yes, we know the emails that begin with this line: ‘Hope this email finds you well.’ “It does not sound sincere. The first thing that comes to mind when reading it is, ‘Okay, what do you want?” which focuses on leadership content strategies. “It sounds rather clichéd, as if you really don’t care what’s happening with them, but you’re just determined to get your work done,” Just say hello, and hope you're well.

Skip the slang
Don’t wander and confuse the reader. “You don’t have to begin with a chatty, over-friendly conversation before getting into the conversation, especially if you have emailed them several times a day,” “Skip the slang, excessive punctuation and emoticons,”

A little empathy doesn’t hurt
Emails can be a frustrating form of communication for various reasons, one being that you can’t see the person. “You need to show a little empathy in your emails, so that they can at least have a sense of your tone and mood,” If you know they’re busy, you can use words like ‘I know you must be busy’… and give them clear context, of what you need. Keep it short, simple and basic, and that’s the best way to not annoy someone.
In this form of written communication, you need to establish some form of trust with the other person, he says.
“Always think, how would I feel when reading this,”
There’s no point following up on a previous email, when the other person doesn’t remember what you’re following up on.

Explain your request again, so that the person doesn’t have to sift through a long email thread and see what you’re referring to. “If that person didn’t respond to your email the first time, resending the same message is probably not going to get better results the second time.”

Avoid being pushy and passive-aggressive: No gentle reminders
Don’t mark your emails with ‘URGENT’ (in upper case mind you), when you know, it isn’t urgent. Moreover, don’t do it just in the hope that you are capturing someone’s attention. “I’ve received emails from people saying, ‘Hey, I haven’t heard from you for a week, so I guess you’re not interested. Well, in case you are, let me know’,” “Such emails just trigger you into a rage, or you just delete them and never respond,”

Also, avoid ‘gentle’ reminders. There’s no such thing as a gentle reminder. “Everyone knows that a reminder is a call to action. Adding gentle to it, just sounds more passive-aggressive and leaves the other person aggravated,”“In terms of tone of voice, always be warm and approachable – not cold, impersonal, and definitely not patronising or passive-aggressive,”.

Think before you ‘cc’
“The point of cc’ing someone is that they’re kept in the loop. That person already has context. If they don’t, then don’t cc them. It’s simple. There’s no prize for the number of people you can stuff into an email. Put yourself in their shoes, how would you like being copied in an email that’s completely out of the blue? Exactly,”.

Don’t copy others on an email when there’s no need
Moreover, don’t email several people in the hope that they will forward it to the person who is supposed to receive the email. This is considering the scenario that the person hasn’t responded. In all probability, they will email the same person and filled their inbox with the same email. Nothing annoys a person more.
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39 days ago

Poll: Is this the most Kiwiana pie you've heard of?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

This Kiwiana pie consists of Watties spaghetti and colby cheese in pastry. Is this our most iconic 'Kiwi' pie?

Share your thoughts below!

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Is this the most Kiwiana pie you've heard of?
  • 13.4% Yes!
    13.4% Complete
  • 86.6% No, I can think of something else!
    86.6% Complete
1025 votes
33 days ago

Changes to Te Onewa Pā access

NZ Transport Agency (NZTA)

Between February 2025 and January 2026, we will be carrying out essential maintenance on the underside of SH1 Auckland Harbour Bridge which sits over the Pā at Stokes Point Reserve.

To keep the public safe there will be changes to the access of the Pā site.

Visit the … View more
Between February 2025 and January 2026, we will be carrying out essential maintenance on the underside of SH1 Auckland Harbour Bridge which sits over the Pā at Stokes Point Reserve.

To keep the public safe there will be changes to the access of the Pā site.

Visit the NZTA website to find out how you might be affected.
Find out more

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34 days ago

Heads or Tails?

Auckland Blues

Be in to WIN a once-in-a-lifetime experience for a young Blues fan!
Tell us why your youngster should be the special coin toss guest at the next Blues home game.

The Prize includes:
- Tossing the coin with the referee and team captains.
- x2 Silver Stand tickets so you and your child can … View more
Be in to WIN a once-in-a-lifetime experience for a young Blues fan!
Tell us why your youngster should be the special coin toss guest at the next Blues home game.

The Prize includes:
- Tossing the coin with the referee and team captains.
- x2 Silver Stand tickets so you and your child can watch the game.
- x2 food & beverage vouchers
- x1 goodie bag and blues jersey.
- Visiting the commentary box
- Being taken to the field side-line where you can watch the team warm-up.

Terms and conditions apply
Find out more

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34 days ago

Date Night in Mt Eden Village│Fri 14 Mar│FREE Babysitting For Kids 5+

Frances from Mount Eden

Woo-hoo! Date Night is coming back for parents and caregivers on Friday 14 March. Take advantage of FREE "babysitting" for kids 5+ while you enjoy a Kid-Free Date Night at one of our fabulous eating places in Mt Eden Village!

FREE supervised children’s activities will be provided at … View more
Woo-hoo! Date Night is coming back for parents and caregivers on Friday 14 March. Take advantage of FREE "babysitting" for kids 5+ while you enjoy a Kid-Free Date Night at one of our fabulous eating places in Mt Eden Village!

FREE supervised children’s activities will be provided at the Mt Eden Village Centre by Bricks 4 Kidz which will organize different LEGO-building stations catering to various age groups and interests. This will not only keep the children engaged but also add an educational element to the evening. Pizza provided!

So go ahead and BOOK a Date Night with your partner, friend or group of friends, BOOK your favourite eating place and BOOK your free "babysitting" service!

We look forward to seeing you in Mt Eden Village!

Bookings essential. For children 5-13 years old.

For the details and to register, please Either go to:
www.mounteden.co.nz...
Or scan the QR code.

Date Night Enquiries to: datenight@mounteden.co.nz
Bricks 4 Kidz Childrens Activities Enquiries to: info@bricks4kidz.co.nz

Brought to you by the Mt Eden Village Business Association in Conjunction with Bricks 4 Kidz

www.mounteden.co.nz...
www.facebook.com...
www.instagram.com...

#MtEdenVillage #MountEdenVillage #Maungawhau #DineLocal #ShopLocal #DateNightInMtEdenVillage #Bricks4Kidz

35 days ago

Apply now: SPCA Street Appeal 2025 – Volunteer Area Coordinator

The Team from SPCA New Zealand

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of animals? Do you love events and have strong organizational and administrative skills? Are you calm under pressure, an exceptional communicator, and eager to contribute to a cause that truly matters?

We’re looking for SPCA Street … View more
Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of animals? Do you love events and have strong organizational and administrative skills? Are you calm under pressure, an exceptional communicator, and eager to contribute to a cause that truly matters?

We’re looking for SPCA Street Appeal Coordinators to help organise our sites across your local region. SPCA Street Appeal is a crucial fundraising event that directly supports our mission to protect and care for animals across New Zealand. As an Area Coordinator, your role is vital in ensuring the success of this event. You’ll assist our Events Team by managing volunteers, overseeing rosters and collection sites for your specific areas during the Street Appeal on Friday, May 30th, Saturday, May 31st, and Sunday, June 1st.

Area Coordinators are responsible for:  
• Oversight of the roster for Volunteer Collectors to ensure sites are covered for all 3 days. You will be provided with software to facilitate the rostering.
• Providing instruction and communicating with Volunteer Collectors in your area in the lead up to the appeal.    
• Helping volunteer collectors be familiar with the non-cash donation options available (you will be provided with a full brief on these and systems to be used are incredibly user friendly).
• Being the first point of contact for Volunteer Collectors throughout the collection days.   
• Setting up and visiting sites in your area to ensure everything is running smoothly throughout the two collection days.   
• Banking the money collected in your area. We provide banking bags to make the process easy.  
• Helping us promote the 2025 Street Appeal and encouraging your friends, family, colleagues and contacts to volunteer.  
• Ensuring all event collateral is collected and returned after the event.  

You must be available ALL of Fri 30th, Saturday 31 May & Sun 1st June from approx. 8am-6pm each day and have access to a vehicle. 
You are required to attend one information session – this may be held in person or virtually (details TBA). Collection sites are provided but we really appreciate any suggestions for good areas to book.   
We are more than happy to provide references afterwards.  

This is an opportunity not to be missed to gain valuable experience in the not-for-profit sector and make a real difference in the lives of New Zealand’s animals. 

If you are interested in becoming a Volunteer Area Coordinator, please contact SPCA Events Team via email events@spca.nz and detail the location you would like to coordinate.

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36 days ago

MEF NIGHT MARKET 28 FEBRUARY 2025

Julie from Hillsborough

Here’s a glimpse of the kinds of things you can look forward to this Friday 🎶😎🥳🤩 Bring your family and friends and enjoy a night off cooking 🥘 👨‍🍳 and at the same time grab some great bargains too! See you there 👊🏽 #mefmarkets #aucklandnightmarkets #mtroskill

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35 days ago

How strong and resilient is your roof in extreme weather?

Topline Group

We’ve just posted a new blog article that breaks down which roofing solutions provide the best protection in extreme weather conditions. If you’re concerned about ensuring your commercial or residential property is ready for whatever comes next, take a look here.

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35 days ago

knitted doll

Jude from Hillsborough

This is a beautiful knitted doll.
30cm height.

Near new condition.

Collection is from Herd Rd, Hillsborough

Price: $5

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35 days ago

Paea Draughting Services

Soa from Mangere

Hi Neighbours,

I am starting out an Architectural Draughting service to help those in need of some Conceptual Documentations. This drawing set will help decide on your design and spacial layouts to which you can use as a start for a Building Consent Set.

I have had multiple Conceptual … View more
Hi Neighbours,

I am starting out an Architectural Draughting service to help those in need of some Conceptual Documentations. This drawing set will help decide on your design and spacial layouts to which you can use as a start for a Building Consent Set.

I have had multiple Conceptual Designs done for Pacific based houses as there is little to no consent required there and these Concept Drawings were enough build from with local skills and talented Tradies.

So If you are thinking of an amendment to your existing plan or wanting to explore design options with a new build, I can help get you started with some Conceptual Documentation Designs.

Regards,

Soa

35 days ago

$79 Day Delegate Package – Elevate Your Event!

Novotel Ellerslie

Host your next event at Novotel Auckland Ellerslie and make it truly unforgettable! With exceptional facilities, outstanding service, and a prime location, our venue is the ideal choice for your next gathering.
What's Included:
Venue Inclusions:
✓ Novotel-branded pads & pens
✓ … View more
Host your next event at Novotel Auckland Ellerslie and make it truly unforgettable! With exceptional facilities, outstanding service, and a prime location, our venue is the ideal choice for your next gathering.
What's Included:
Venue Inclusions:
✓ Novotel-branded pads & pens
✓ Chilled water on each table
✓ Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi
✓ 2 free car parks (subject to availability)

Catering:
✓ Arrival tea & coffee to kick-start your day
✓ Morning tea with a delightful food item
✓ Scrumptious Buffet Lunch to fuel your event
✓ Afternoon tea with a delicious treat to end the day

Audio-Visual:
✓ Data projector & audio bundle for clear, crisp presentations
✓ Screen for easy viewing
✓ Additional AV equipment available upon request (at an extra cost)

Book today and make your next event a seamless success at Novotel Auckland Ellerslie. With everything you need in one place, all you need to do is show up and enjoy!

Reach out to our team - Ph 09 529 9090 or email H3060sb3@accor.com
Find out more

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35 days ago

Google TV genuine boxes

Irfan from Mangere

Great streaming device with genuine Google TV (requires additional free software download)
Stream all your favorite apps in full 4k.

Make your ordinary TV smart or an smart TV quite a bit more smarter with handsfree voice control.

Also available smaller and non handsfree streamers.
Both … View more
Great streaming device with genuine Google TV (requires additional free software download)
Stream all your favorite apps in full 4k.

Make your ordinary TV smart or an smart TV quite a bit more smarter with handsfree voice control.

Also available smaller and non handsfree streamers.
Both Google and Android boxes

Price: $165

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36 days ago

Make Room for Kiwi Summer Adventures – Lock in Our Exclusive Offers!

Alan Storage from Kiwi Self Storage - Mt Roskill

As the Kiwi summer arrives, it’s time to embrace adventure, create memories, and make the most of the sunny days. But with all the gear, equipment, and seasonal items taking up valuable space, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where we come in.

Our self-storage solutions are designed … View more
As the Kiwi summer arrives, it’s time to embrace adventure, create memories, and make the most of the sunny days. But with all the gear, equipment, and seasonal items taking up valuable space, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where we come in.

Our self-storage solutions are designed to help you declutter your home and create room for what truly matters—your summer adventures. Whether you need to store bulky winter gear, free up space for guests, or safely tuck away valuables while you travel, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s why you should choose us:

Convenience and Accessibility: With secure, 24/7 accessible storage units, you can retrieve your summer essentials anytime, making spontaneous adventures a breeze.

Safety and Security: Our state-of-the-art security systems ensure your belongings are protected, so you can enjoy peace of mind while you’re out exploring.

Flexible Options: From compact units to spacious storage solutions, we cater to your unique needs, whether it’s for a month or the whole season.

Affordability: Enjoy competitive rates without compromising on quality, so you can save your budget for summer fun.

Choosing us means you can declutter, organize, and focus on what truly matters—enjoying every moment of the Kiwi summer. Let us help you make room for the memories that last a lifetime.
Ready to clear space for adventure? Let’s get started!

Contact us now and speak to one of our storage experts and take advantage of our generous summer offers.
kiwiselfstorage.co.nz...
kiwiselfstorage.co.nz...
Phone Now!: 09 625 6161

#selfstoragenz #smallbusinessnz #Householdstorage
#removalsnz #realestatenz

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