Introducing our AMI Community Grant Finalists
This is our second to last daily showcase of two of our AMI Community Grant finalists, sharing a bit more about the great work that they're doing in Kiwi communities. You can help support these organisations by voting for them to win their share of $20,000.
Volunteering Canterbury
Volunteering Canterbury has been supporting volunteering for over 25 years in Canterbury. Increasingly we find ourselves going to the community to talk about volunteering; encouraging people to volunteer within their neighbourhoods. With people moving as a result of the quakes in 2010/2011, and the newcomers to the city for the rebuild, volunteering is providing excellent opportunities to make connections. We are seeking assistance for two tablets and a marquee so that we more readily attend community events and show people, on the spot, how to get involved with volunteering. VOTE NOW!
The House of Grace
The House of Grace is a home for pregnant teens and young mothers. Young mums are built up to be confident mothers, capable of raising children within healthy family environments. We help young women continue their education, overcome personal challenges and break free from issues that may be holding them back. As a non-profit and non-government funded organisation, we rely on donations. Funds will go towards furnishings for the home, new couches and updated bedding. We desire to make the home a beautiful, safe and peaceful environment for young mums who may not have experienced this before. VOTE NOW!
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.
Warnings about scams
This Fraud Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone to stay sharp and look out for the warning signs of scams to stop them before they start.
Here’s what to watch out for:
🔍 Unrealistic offers or promises of easy money that are too good to be true
🔍 Pressure tactics: Scammers may rush or threaten you to act immediately.
🔍 Requests for personal info: Be cautious if you’re asked for bank details, passwords, or sensitive information.
🔍 Unusual payment methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
🔍 Unverified contacts: Emails, calls, or messages from unknown or suspicious sources.
How to protect yourself:
✅ Stop and think before sharing personal details or making payments.
✅ Don't click on any links until you know that it is safe.
✅ Verify the source: Contact the organisation directly using official channels.
✅ If something’s not right, it's OK to hang up, walk away, ignore it and move on.
If you wish to report a scam, contact Police on 105 or report it online via 105.police.govt.nz/use-105.
Tactile texture
Welcome texture into your room by using leftover Resene Anaglypta wallpaper to accentuate furniture and décor items. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.