❗ Biosecurity alert - avian botulism
Signs of avian botulism, a disease that causes paralysis and death in birds, have been identified in multiple dead and dying ducks found at Waikanae Beach’s Pharazyn Reserve.
We’ve collected carcasses from the oxidation ponds, which are already predominantly closed to the public, and erected signage to ensure people are aware of the issue.
Wild and captive bird populations, most notably waterfowl, can contract the disease through the carcasses of those killed by avian botulism but thankfully it does not cross over to humans. It can however make cats and dogs sick if they eat a dead bird infected with the disease.
Please keep away from any dead birds you find in or near our waterways and let us know on 0800 486 486 so we can remove and dispose of the carcasses safely.
We’ll continue to monitor the site on a regular basis, removing any newly deceased birds. It may take some time, but we will let you know as soon as possible when we find out the cause of the current mortalities.
Live Q&A: Garden maintenance with Crewcut
This Wednesday, we are having another Neighbourly Q&A session. This time with John Bracewell from Crewcut.
John Bracewell, former Black Caps coach turned Franchisee Development Manager and currently the face of Crewcut’s #Movember campaign, knows a thing or two about keeping the grass looking sharp—whether it’s on a cricket pitch or in your backyard!
As a seasoned Crewcut franchisee, John is excited to answer your lawn and gardening questions. After years of perfecting the greens on the field, he's ready to share tips on how to knock your garden out of the park. Let's just say he’s as passionate about lush lawns as he is about a good game of cricket!
John is happy to answer questions about lawn mowing, tree/hedge trimming, tidying your garden, ride on mowing, you name it! He'll be online on Wednesday, 27th of November to answer them all.
Share your question below now ⬇️
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
It’s Riddle Time! Beat the Neighbourhood with Your Smarts!
Which of the following words don't belong in the group and why?
CORSET, COSTER, SECTOR, ESCORT, COURTS
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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