22 days ago

Poll: Should our summer school holidays move to February?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

It's a debate that resurfaces each year as weather hits its peak just as kids head back to school.
Traditionally, we've paired the school holidays in NZ with the Christmas period, but would a shift to February make more sense for everyone?

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Should our summer school holidays move to February?
  • 38% Yes, February would be better
    38% Complete
  • 61.3% No, keep it as is
    61.3% Complete
  • 0.7% Other - I'll share below
    0.7% Complete
1243 votes
More messages from your neighbours
3 hours ago

Casey

The Team from Humans of Christchurch Ōtautahi

“I wasn't aware of it when I was going through it, or growing up in that environment, you just think it's your normal until you get out of it. Narcissistic abuse. Have you heard of it?

I was the black sheep. I left home real young, like, 17. I went to the Salvation Army, I was homeless. I went back to my parents thinking they'd changed, or, I don't know, something will be different, but it just wasn't. I had to come to terms with reality. Now I'm estranged, I'm doing my own thing. I've had no contact in ages, it is what it is.

I'm trying to get the skills, I want to pursue music as a full time job. Even if it just pays for the basics. That's what I really want to do with my life, I need to do it, it feeds my spirit.

I learned bass guitar, electric guitar. I learned how to rap, sing and a bit of metal growl. So like, you know, the heavy vocals. It's like an outlet, if I'm going through some real heavy duty stuff, I can just fall back on the music. I always feel better.

I saw someone had an advertisement for a band, so I got their number, gave them a ring. You never know what might happen. I used to be so insecure and shy, I hid away on purpose. But these days I want to be an open book, I'm more confident in my own skin.

I might be going back to the Salvation Army. It's better than being on the streets in the elements, cold, freezing. Yeah, you get a roof over your head three meals a day. It's better than being stranded.

I was born in Christchurch, been here my whole life. I also like getting out into nature. If I had money, I'd be a nomad, just travelling with a backpack. I do like it here, but it would be a good change to see the world. Yes, this is just a tiny little island, it's a big world out there.”

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2 days ago

Last call for entries to our Resene Shed of the Year 2025!

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Take a look at Paul Bates' "surprisingly roomy" Tardis-inspired shed which took out our 2023 title, and if you reckon your shed is right up there, well, you could be in the running to win a robot lawnmower, Resene vouchers and a subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us why your garden shed is New Zealand's best, and send up to 5 high-quality photos to Resene Shed of the Year 2025, NZ Gardener PO Box 6341, Victoria St West, Auckland 1142. Or email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2025.

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M
6 hours ago

English Language Lessons (2nd Language speakers)

Michelle from Parklands - Marshlands

Hi!
I am a certified English Language Teacher (CELTA) with Cambridge University. I have many years of experience teaching adults and children the English language.

If you need help with General English, Business English or preparation for IELTS. Message me, i can help.

English lessons start at $30 p/h

Thank you

Michelle

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