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1347 days ago

Poll: Who would you vote for as New Zealander of the year?

Caryn Wilkinson Reporter from Community News

The New Zealander of the the Year finalists are Dr Siouxsie Wiles, Farid Ahmed and Ranjna Patel.

The awards honour extraordinary Kiwis who inspire, give hope and lead.

Wiles is a microbiologist and science communicator from Auckland.

When Covid-19 first hit New Zealand, Dr Siouxsie Wiles rose to the challenge, said Miriama Kamo, Te Koruru – patron of the awards.

"... she's stood tall to speak to hundreds of millions globally," Kamo said.

"Her work helped us all to see beyond the fear and complexity of the pandemic, to understand not only what was happening, but also how we could, and can continue to, collectively respond."

Ahmed is the Muslim community leader who became an icon of forgiveness following the March 15 terror attacks in Christchurch.

After losing his wife in the attacks, Ahmed demonstratred how faith and love could
provide a pathway to navigate deep grief.

Awarded an international peace prize for his ongoing work, he published Husna's Story in March last year, donating all royalties to St John Ambulance.

The third finalist, Ranjna Patel, is the Tamaki Health director and a domestic violence social entrepreneur.

When Patel was asked to offer guidance around family violence in in the south Asian community, she identified a crucial missing step in family violence intervention – engaging offenders in their own rehabilitation.

In 2014, she established the first Gandhi Nivas home for perpetrators in Otahuhu, providing innovative early intervention and prevention services for Kiwi men.

A study undertaken by Massey University looked at men five years before entering Gandhi Nivas and after, and found 60% of men did not re-offend.

The annual Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards are in their 12th year.

The six winners will be announced in Auckland on March 31.

*Please put NFP if you do not want your comments used by Stuff.

Who would you vote for as New Zealander of the year?
  • 65.7% Dr Siouxsie Wiles
    65.7% Complete
  • 17.6% Ranjna Patel
    17.6% Complete
  • 16.7% Farid Ahmed
    16.7% Complete
102 votes
More messages from your neighbours
1 day ago

Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.

Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.

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Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?
  • 64% Yes
    64% Complete
  • 33.5% No
    33.5% Complete
  • 2.5% Other - I'll share below
    2.5% Complete
1632 votes
18 hours ago

Become an SPCA Foster Hero!

The Team from SPCA Auckland - Centres & Op Shops

Kitten season has arrived, and over the next six months, over 8,000 cats and kittens will come into SPCA’s care. Please help us give these babies the best start in life and sign up to be a foster parent today! It's not just cats and kittens - we are also urgently seeking foster homes for dogs and small animals.

Fostering saves lives and helps these tiny babies grow into healthy, well-adjusted adults, ready for adoption. We cover all training and costs. All you need is time and love to spare!

Sign up today and save a life!

22 hours ago

Tips on Accelerating Your Comfort Level with a New Mattress

Beds4U Henderson

Getting started on the quest for the perfect night’s sleep with a new mattress can be exciting, but it often requires a period of adjustment.

If you've recently invested in a new mattress and are wondering about the time frame for adjustment, you're not alone.


Understanding the typical adjustment period can greatly improve your sleep health and ensure you get the most comfort out of your new bed.

The Personal Touch: Individual Variation in Adjustment
When it comes to adapting to a new mattress, there's no one-size-fits-all answer.

The mattress adjustment period can vary significantly depending on a number of personal factors.

Age, health, and even your usual sleep position can influence how quickly you adjust.

Generally, most people take anywhere from a few days up to a month to fully adapt to their new sleeping environment.

During this time, your body is acclimating to the support and feel of the mattress, which may differ significantly from your old one.

Understanding Mattress Types and Their Impact
The type of mattress you choose also plays a crucial role in your adjustment period.

Memory foam, for instance, may require a longer adjustment period as it contours more significantly to your body compared to a traditional spring mattress.

On the other hand, hybrid mattresses—a combination of foam and springs—offer a balance of support and cushioning, which might ease the adaptation process.

Tips for a Smoother Transition
Adapting to your new mattress is not just about waiting it out; there are active steps you can take to make the process smoother:

Maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day sets your body’s internal clock, which can help reduce the adjustment time.

Create a comfortable sleep environment. Ensure your bedroom is conducive to sleep—consider factors like temperature, light, and noise.

Give it time. Even if your new mattress feels different or not quite right initially, give it a few weeks, as initial discomfort is common.
Exploring more about how to enhance your sleep environment for a comfortable sleep, you can check out Beds4U Bedding.

Recognizing the Signs of Successful Adjustment
How do you know if you're well-adjusted to your new mattress?

Look for positive changes in your sleep quality and health.

You should experience less tossing and turning, fewer awakenings through the night, and reduced morning stiffness or soreness.

Increased sleep quality and waking up feeling rested are clear indicators that your body has adapted to the new mattress.

Comfort with Confidence
Adjusting to a new mattress is a unique experience that varies from person to person.

By understanding your needs and the characteristics of different mattress types, along with employing tips to aid the transition, you can enhance your sleep quality significantly.

Remember, a good night's sleep is crucial for your overall health and well-being.

At Beds4U, we are committed to helping you find that perfect sleep solution.

With a wide range of high-quality mattresses and a knowledgeable team eager to assist, finding your ideal comfort is just a visit away.

Explore our latest collections and sales at Beds4U and start enjoying a more comfortable sleep tonight.

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