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558 days ago

Auckland Domain Wintergardens: 100-year-old Grand Dames throw off the covers

Mildred Armah Reporter from Central Leader

The 100-year-old grand old glasshouses at the Auckland Domain Winter garden have been “under the covers” for the past two years; now they are throwing off those covers to begin a new chapter in their life.

Covid-19 lockdowns denied the dames the chance to celebrate their 100th birthday in October 2021 so Auckland Council is reintroducing them to the public this week.

“It’s been pain-staking work to sympathetically restore these beautiful old heritage glasshouse buildings which have hosted weddings, musical recitals and APEC world leaders,” Desley Simpson chair of the Auckland Domain committee and Deputy Mayor said.

The buildings have not simply been restored - they’ve been made even better, she said.

“The sensitive seismic upgrading and attention to detail has not only saved but enhanced these key historic buildings,” Tracey Hartley of Salmond Reed Architects the company charged with overseeing the restoration said.

Works began in early 2021 and carried out in two stages with each of the glasshouses taking approximately 12 months to complete at a cost of $5.62m.

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6 days ago

Poll: Should drivers retake the theory test every 10 years?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Drivers get where they need to go, but sometimes it seems that we are all abiding by different road rules (for example, the varying ways drivers indicate around a roundabout).
Do you think drivers should be required to take a quick driving theory test every 10 years?

Vote in the poll and share any road rules that you've seen bent! 😱

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Should drivers retake the theory test every 10 years?
  • 47.9% Yes
    47.9% Complete
  • 50.2% No
    50.2% Complete
  • 1.9% Other - I'll share below
    1.9% Complete
3315 votes
8 hours ago

Stay sun-safe and well-read this spring

Sunday Star Times

Longer days and warmer weather are fast approaching!

Make the most of your Sundays with a subscription to the Sunday Star-Times. From just $51, enjoy gripping investigations, in-depth analysis, and exclusive subscriber rewards. Plus, for September only, receive a free Antipodes Supernatural SPF50+ Ceramide Silk Facial Sunscreen worth over $60.

Don't miss out on this unbeatable offer—subscribe today! *Print T&Cs apply.
Subscribe now

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8 hours ago

Neighbourly's Online Spring Garage Sale

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

On Saturday, 28th of September we'll be holding an online garage sale and you are invited - both to score some bargains and to sell your wares!

The sun is starting to shine and perhaps you're ready to part with your winter goods, get involved by listing your goods ahead of Saturday's event. And come back on Saturday to find new treasures.

List your items now. Head to Market.

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