Waikato in restricted fire season
A restricted fire season is in place for Waikato with people requiring a fire permit if they wish to light an outdoor fire.
The prohibited fire season came into effect at 8am Wednesday and covers multiple areas in the region.
What you need to know:
- The ban covers the following areas: Waikato, Waipa, Otorohanga, Matamata-Piako, Hauraki, Waitomo, and South Waikato District Council boundaries.
-You must apply for a permit if you are to light an outdoor fire. Go to checkitsalright.nz and follow the instructions.
- Gas and charcoal barbecues are permitted.
- Individuals that operate heavy machinery are advised to exercise caution when out in dry terrain. Fire crews advise to undertake work in cooler temperatures and in minimal wind.
To find out more about outdoor fire safety, please go to Fire and Emergency New Zealand's (FENZ) website by clicking the button below.
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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5% Second half of November
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44.6% 1st December
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16.8% A week before Christmas
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32.4% Whenever you wish
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1.2% Other - I'll share below
Poll: Do you think an age check is required for these drinks?
Stores are checking IDs for fancy soft drinks and not everyone is happy about it.
One shopper, who asked not to be named, bought some zero alcohol branded drinks at his local supermarket and was asked to “step around into the thoroughfare so a supervisor could see me and make sure I was over 18. I couldn't believe it."
Do you think an age check is required for these drinks? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).
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40% Yes
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0% Not sure
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60% No
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.