Mackenzie District, Lake Tekapo

DIY right first time #resenetip

DIY right first time #resenetip

Need to brush up your DIY skills? Check out the free MasterStroke by Resene DIY Decorating Manual for everything you need to get started.

150 days ago

Kate

The Team from Humans of Christchurch Ōtautahi

"I was in Cambodia for work. It was a very hot night, and I literally swept my hand down my body and said out loud, ‘Oh, it's so hot!’ And I felt this lump, It felt like half the size of a golf ball. I thought, I'm not going to be too worried about it, but I emailed my doctor and… View more"I was in Cambodia for work. It was a very hot night, and I literally swept my hand down my body and said out loud, ‘Oh, it's so hot!’ And I felt this lump, It felt like half the size of a golf ball. I thought, I'm not going to be too worried about it, but I emailed my doctor and made an appointment.

They've said all along you're very lucky you caught it early.

I guess there's some people who go through this sort of thing who are not information seekers. But I'm like, ‘tell me everything!’. My oncologist, at our first meeting, said, ‘our job is to take your body to the very edge to kill the cancer. We take you to the edge, knowing that once we stop, the systems that we are affecting will recover.’ So it is scary stuff.

I just asked questions all the time. I'm a pretty cynical person, but I'm so impressed with the quality of care. I was told when I was first diagnosed, you're in the best city in New Zealand for breast cancer care. When you go in for your chemo you are given a nurse for the day, and she looks after you. They're super resilient these women I mean, obviously they have to be.

When I was heading into chemotherapy, I think the vision I had was that it would be a very quiet, somber place. Oh, no! It's like, hi!, hi! Hi! it's bustly, people are laughing. I actually come away from my chemotherapy sessions feeling quite uplifted because the talk's very lively, and there's just this feeling of caring and concern.

I'm at the pointy end of the treatment now, and although I'm only having treatment every three weeks, the drugs that I'm having now are very heavy duty. I'm just holding my head above water with work.

I continue to turn up with full makeup, I'll put earrings on. And my eyebrows, which I draw on fastidiously every morning and sometimes I end up with like Groucho Marx and sometimes I end up looking like Twiggy. It just depends on my mood. People say to me, oh, gosh, she's looking so well. That helps me too because it's a bit of normality in a very abnormal situation.

Perspective is really important. Getting your head out of what might happen, and bringing yourself back to the present is really important. Counseling helps, right? Breast Cancer Foundation and the Cancer Society both fund counselling.

At the beginning, I was trying to be upbeat about it all the time. I'm not now. I acknowledge when I have down days, those are the days when my sister rushes around and gives me a foot massage.

Actually, for the last week, I felt really afraid of dying. Most of the time, I'm not, because I have faith. So it’s just like, I’ve got this job to do this year, which is an absolute shit job. But it will come to an end.

Boy, have I developed as a person and I'll continue to develop right to the end of this journey, whatever that looks like. Because it just forever changes you. Physically and mentally and emotionally. Spiritually. I've got people praying for me all over the world, and I believe that has made a difference."

- Kate

View more stories, or nominate someone: @humansofchch
www.humansofchch.org...

Image
148 days ago

New Lottery, New Home

Heart Foundation Lotteries

For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in the charming coastal town of Mangawhai, worth almost $1.4 million dollars.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be … View more
For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in the charming coastal town of Mangawhai, worth almost $1.4 million dollars.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by its new owner.

Make this property your permanent residence, a holiday home, a rental, or you can simply sell it!

Get your tickets today at heartlottery.org.nz.
Find out more

Image
150 days ago

Spice up your winter

Kevin Hickman Retirement Village

When it’s cold outside, there's nothing quite like being inside the cosy warmth of a kitchen infused with the aroma of spices. But did you know that beyond their aromatic allure, these spices harbour a treasure trove of health benefits?

From the fiery kick of chilli to the sweet warmth of… View more
When it’s cold outside, there's nothing quite like being inside the cosy warmth of a kitchen infused with the aroma of spices. But did you know that beyond their aromatic allure, these spices harbour a treasure trove of health benefits?

From the fiery kick of chilli to the sweet warmth of cinnamon, each spice brings not only flavour but also a host of nutrients and healing properties to our winter dishes. So, whether you're sipping on mulled wine, indulging in gingerbread, or savouring a hearty stew, every bite promises to not just please your palate but also contribute to your overall wellbeing.

Click read more for the full story.

Image
150 days ago

Berry trellis

The Team from Resene ColorShop Timaru

Give your berries room to grow and plenty of airflow with this helpful trellis finished in Resene Kwila Timber Stain. Keeping the canes off the ground means berries stay healthy and are easy to reach when ready to pick.

Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.

Image
152 days ago

Don't miss out on $15,000 back

Kevin Hickman Retirement Village

It could be our wonderful staff. Our vibrant communities. Our amazing amenities. Or just the peace of mind that our fixed base weekly fee* brings. There are so many reasons to choose the Ryman lifestyle. We’d love to add one more reason to your list — until 31 July 2024 if you sign up for one … View moreIt could be our wonderful staff. Our vibrant communities. Our amazing amenities. Or just the peace of mind that our fixed base weekly fee* brings. There are so many reasons to choose the Ryman lifestyle. We’d love to add one more reason to your list — until 31 July 2024 if you sign up for one of our new home offers at Kevin Hickman Village, you’ll get a $15,000 credit on settlement*. There’s truly never been a better time to choose Ryman.

*Terms and conditions apply

Image
153 days ago

Check the list!

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

We've pulled four names this week of members across the country. The winners of the $100 Mitre10 cards are:

Cynthia Chozas from Botany Downs

Mabel Dawson from Stratford

Michael Pascoe from Amberley

View more
We've pulled four names this week of members across the country. The winners of the $100 Mitre10 cards are:

Cynthia Chozas from Botany Downs

Mabel Dawson from Stratford

Michael Pascoe from Amberley

Sarah Gebhard from Nelson

Winners can get in touch here or by emailing helpdesk@neighbourly.co.nz before 25th June.

Image
154 days ago

We're looking for Nice Neighbours

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Each week, nominations on Neighbourly get turned into a Stuff story and we are always on the lookout for amazing neighbours who deserve to be recognised.

It could be someone who helped you when you were in a tight spot, a local who goes above and beyond for the community or just a neighbour who … View more
Each week, nominations on Neighbourly get turned into a Stuff story and we are always on the lookout for amazing neighbours who deserve to be recognised.

It could be someone who helped you when you were in a tight spot, a local who goes above and beyond for the community or just a neighbour who checks in on you.

Nominate your 'Nice Neighbour' by clicking here.

154 days ago
154 days ago

Last chance for tickets!

Heart Foundation Lotteries

Don’t miss out! For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in beautiful Papamoa, worth just over $1.1 million.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by … View more
Don’t miss out! For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in beautiful Papamoa, worth just over $1.1 million.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by its new owners.

Make this property your permanent residence, a holiday home, rent it or even sell it! Get your tickets today at heartlottery.org.nz.
Find out more

Image
157 days ago

The Canterbury Quartet

Kevin Hickman Retirement Village

You are invited to join us for an exclusive afternoon of classical music with the Canterbury Quartet, hosted by Kevin Hickman Village.

The Canterbury Quartet are experienced professional musicians who have performed in some of the finest symphony orchestras around the world.

Don't miss … View more
You are invited to join us for an exclusive afternoon of classical music with the Canterbury Quartet, hosted by Kevin Hickman Village.

The Canterbury Quartet are experienced professional musicians who have performed in some of the finest symphony orchestras around the world.

Don't miss this opportunity for a harmonious blend of exquisite string quartet music and complimentary refreshments. You are welcome to bring a friend along, and we look forward to seeing you there!

Click read more for more information.

Image
161 days ago

Poll: Are swear words no longer?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

In 2023, Apple amended its autocorrect function to allow Iphone users to freely use their intended word without mentioning 'ducks'. Is this a sign of the times? Are swear words no longer taboo in our communities or workplaces?

Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to… View more
In 2023, Apple amended its autocorrect function to allow Iphone users to freely use their intended word without mentioning 'ducks'. Is this a sign of the times? Are swear words no longer taboo in our communities or workplaces?

Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to be excluded from the Conversations column of your local paper.

Image
Are swear words no longer?
  • 20.8% Yes - swear words don't phase me
    20.8% Complete
  • 48.5% No - it's still inappropriate to swear
    48.5% Complete
  • 30% It's depends on the word
    30% Complete
  • 0.8% Other - I'll share below!
    0.8% Complete
2899 votes
157 days ago

Sunshine state of mind

The Team from Resene ColorShop Timaru

Create a mood-enhancing workspace at home with a fresh and uplifting colour palette with Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen and Resene Lustacryl.

Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.

Image
158 days ago

Make your family aware: Scam posing as officers returns

The Team from New Zealand Police

A phone scam is re-emerging with cold calling swindlers claiming to be Police officers.

New Zealand Police are advising the public to be vigilant, after a handful of reports have been made in recent days. Unfortunately, at least two elderly Aucklanders have been conned out of tens of thousands … View more
A phone scam is re-emerging with cold calling swindlers claiming to be Police officers.

New Zealand Police are advising the public to be vigilant, after a handful of reports have been made in recent days. Unfortunately, at least two elderly Aucklanders have been conned out of tens of thousands of dollars.

Waitematā CIB’s Detective Senior Sergeant Ryan Bunting says scammers are cold calling, mainly on landlines, and claim to be a Police officer.“They will also provide a fake ID or badge number to make their call seem legitimate,” he says.“This person will carry on and provide a reason for their call: either they are investigating fake bank notes, or that your credit card has been cloned.

“As part of this scam, they will ask you to withdraw money from a nearby bank to be collected or ask you to provide further financial or banking information to aid their investigation.”

Be aware: this is a scam call.

Police are investigating two reports this week, in south Auckland and the North Shore, where two people have fallen victim to the scam. “Both victims withdrew cash from a bank and handed this over to someone who arrived at their door to collect it under the fake cover story,” Detective Senior Sergeant Bunting says.“These victims have had their good-will and trust trodden on by these scammers.”

Investigation staff have ensured there is support available for the victims. Detective Senior Sergeant Bunting says: “Scammers have no ethics whatsoever and will take any opportunity to try and con you.“These scams take many forms, and the offenders trick people under a variety of guises or storylines.”

There are occasions where legitimate Police officers will contact people as part of their duties, he says.

Police are asking the community to be aware and take the opportunity to spread the word amongst friends and family members. “We are particularly keen to ensure elder family members are aware of what is happening,” Detective Senior Sergeant Bunting says. “If anyone receives a call of this nature, hang up.

“If you have had the unfortunate position of being a victim to this scam and have not reported this, we encourage you to report this to Police.”

Please remember:
- Police will never call to ask you for bank details, pin numbers or passwords
- Police do not offer prize money
- Police will not ask you to go to a bank to withdraw money
- If you receive a call out of the blue of a similar nature: challenge the caller to identify themselves, ask for their details.
- Hang up, contact 105 to verify the ID and request the officer to contact you
- If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Image
160 days ago

Flood funding boost for Canterbury rivers

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Central Government funding to assist with flood resilience has been welcomed by Environment Canterbury.

The regional council has received cash from the new regional infrastructure fund as part of Budget 2024.

Environment Canterbury acting chairperson… View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Central Government funding to assist with flood resilience has been welcomed by Environment Canterbury.

The regional council has received cash from the new regional infrastructure fund as part of Budget 2024.

Environment Canterbury acting chairperson Craig Pauling said the new co-funding arrangement ‘‘is a great start’’.

‘‘Co-investment is something we’ve been pushing for a long time, along with the rest of Te Uru Kahika – Regional and Unitary Councils Aotearoa.

‘‘Flooding is the country’s most common natural hazard, and urgent action is needed to ensure our communities are resilient"

The country’s regional councils have been advocating for central Government support for river resilience projects for several years.

It led to the 'Before the Deluge' report, which was released just before Cyclone Gabrielle struck parts of the North Island last year.

Pauling said Environment Canterbury identified seven priorities for the region, which were put forward in the report.

‘‘We will continue to work with the Government to progress projects to help safeguard lives, property and vital infrastructure across Waitaha, as well as help us with overall river resilience including biodiversity and biosecurity outcomes.

‘‘I am looking forward to keeping the conversations with the Government going and getting these initial pieces of work started.’’

Included in the initial funding round will be upgrades to critical and aged flood management infrastructure across the region to make it more resilient to the changing climate.

Further work on the Rangitata flood resilient programme and projects in South Canterbury will also be funded.

The Government is still working through the amount of support which will be offered to each project.

River resilience was a major focus in the consultation for Environment Canterbury's latest long-term plan.

About three-quarters of submitters supported the council increasing its spending on flood protection, and pest and weed control.

The council is proposing to invest $25 million a year, over the next 10 years, to boost flood protection.

It also plans to introduce a district-wide rate for river resilience in Selwyn, and is considering similar options for the Ashley Rakahuri River and rivers in South Canterbury.

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

160 days ago

This week's prize winners

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

We've pulled four names this week of members across the country. The winners of the $100 Prezzy® cards are:

Sheena Bond from Napier

Ralph Dixon from Rotorua

Katie Johnston from Invercargill

View more
We've pulled four names this week of members across the country. The winners of the $100 Prezzy® cards are:

Sheena Bond from Napier

Ralph Dixon from Rotorua

Katie Johnston from Invercargill

Samantha Sanderson from Beckenham

Winners can get in touch here or by emailing helpdesk@neighbourly.co.nz before 18th June.

Image
Top