Lucky find of whale ambergris may spark beach treasure hunt
A golf ball-sized lump found by a Dunedin woman on Aramoana Beach earlier this year will be examined at Otago Museum this week to confirm if it is ambergris.
Ambergris is a wax-like substance secreted in sperm whale intestines. It protects the whale's stomach from its abrasive diet of beaked squid. It has been used for centuries in expensive perfumes, as it traps aroma on the skin for long periods.
Its relative rarity also means it can attract hefty prices – more than $10,000 a kilogram. Read more here.
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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4.7% Second half of November
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43.5% 1st December
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17.7% A week before Christmas
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33% Whenever you wish
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1.1% Other - I'll share below
Today’s Riddle – Can You Outsmart Your Neighbours?
First you eat me, then you get eaten. What am I?
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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Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
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82.7% Yes
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14.4% No
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2.8% Other - I'll share below