Conifer Grove, Takanini

1597 days ago

Dome Valley dump protesters' hīkoi halts Queen St

Caroline Williams Reporter from Auckland Stuff

Hundreds of people marched through central Auckland as part of a hīkoi protesting the proposed new Auckland Regional Landfill site on Friday.
Private waste company Waste Management wants to build the rubbish dump in Dome Valley, on land between Wellsford and Warkworth.
It would replace the Redvale… View more
Hundreds of people marched through central Auckland as part of a hīkoi protesting the proposed new Auckland Regional Landfill site on Friday.
Private waste company Waste Management wants to build the rubbish dump in Dome Valley, on land between Wellsford and Warkworth.
It would replace the Redvale Landfill and Energy Park in Dairy Flat, which is predicted to reach capacity between 2026 and 2028.
But the valley's iwi and landowners worry any breach in the dump's lining could spill poisons into the Hōteo River.
Fight the Tip, Save The Dome Māori liaison Mikaera Miru said the consequences of an earlier rāhui at the site being ignored were “devastating”.
“This is the second biggest harbour on the planet, we need to look after it. It's Ngāti Whātua food basket, we need to look after it and that's why we're here.”
What other solutions to Auckland's waste problem do you think should be explored?

1600 days ago

Goff confirms proposed 3.5 rates rise and 500+ job cuts

Todd Niall Reporter from Auckland Stuff

Hi Neighbours, The likely shape of Auckland Council's Emergency Budget is clearer with the mayor releasing his proposal for Thursday's final debate. Has he got it right ? Read the story below.

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1595 days ago

New Zealand International Film Festival

Resene

Whānau Mārama: New Zealand International Film Festival will present the World Premiere screenings of five New Zealand films this winter for NZIFF At Home - Online available nationwide 24 July - 2 August.

Resene is proud to support this year’s homegrown selection which includes four … View more
Whānau Mārama: New Zealand International Film Festival will present the World Premiere screenings of five New Zealand films this winter for NZIFF At Home - Online available nationwide 24 July - 2 August.

Resene is proud to support this year’s homegrown selection which includes four documentaries and one episodic drama. Plus there are plenty of other films to keep you entertained. Visit online for more information.

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1595 days ago

Experience the Ryman Difference!

Our villages are vibrant communities that offer something for everyone. Be social or enjoy the quiet life, go travelling, join a book club or enjoy the camaraderie of a walking group.

Enjoy the peace of mind that Ryman guarantees with resident-friendly terms, leading innovation, a caring team … View more
Our villages are vibrant communities that offer something for everyone. Be social or enjoy the quiet life, go travelling, join a book club or enjoy the camaraderie of a walking group.

Enjoy the peace of mind that Ryman guarantees with resident-friendly terms, leading innovation, a caring team and care options to suit your needs.
Get your free copy

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1595 days ago

New families welcome in Term 3!

Melissa Walton from Weymouth Playcentre

Kia ora, Talofa, Malo e le lei, Ni hao, Namaste, As-Salaam-Alaikum, Bula, Kia orana, Mauri! We're open for Term 3 from tomorrow (Monday). New families welcome - please get in touch or come along and check it out!

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1596 days ago

'Mum and dad' investors: Do your homework first

Colleen Hawkes Reporter from Homed

An Auckland couple who took a professional approach to property investment tell their story - there are ups and downs.

1596 days ago

Whānau Mārama: New Zealand International Film Festival Brings The Arthouse To Your House This Week

New Zealand Film Festival Trust

The highlight event of Winter is back – and this year it’s coming right to your own living room!

Whānau Mārama: New Zealand International Film Festival runs 24 July to 2 August with 79 feature films and seven short film collections from 41 countries screening in the unique At Home – … View more
The highlight event of Winter is back – and this year it’s coming right to your own living room!

Whānau Mārama: New Zealand International Film Festival runs 24 July to 2 August with 79 feature films and seven short film collections from 41 countries screening in the unique At Home – Online digital edition. Browse the programme and choose from documentaries, drama, doco-drama, short films, animation and a special programme for kids, and enjoy special filmmaker introductions and Q&As.

Selected films will also screen in 16 cinemas and theatres in eight cities – Auckland, Tauranga, Napier, New Plymouth, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin and Gore.
Find out more

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1598 days ago

National plans to spend $15 billion upgrading Auckland's transport infrastructure

Brittany Keogh Reporter from Auckland Stuff

Hi neighbours, the National party has announced plans to spend $15 billion on upgrading Auckland's transport infrastructure if it's elected in September. The package, outlined by leader Judith Collins on Friday, would include a four-lane expressway, linking Whangārei, Auckland, Hamilton … View moreHi neighbours, the National party has announced plans to spend $15 billion on upgrading Auckland's transport infrastructure if it's elected in September. The package, outlined by leader Judith Collins on Friday, would include a four-lane expressway, linking Whangārei, Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga and extending the passenger rail network to Pōkeno. It would scrap plans to install light rail to the airport and instead build a train connection from Puhinui. The future of the Skypath is also in question. National would favour another Waitematā Harbour crossing in the form of a tunnel. What are your thoughts on the policies? Do you think they'll help combat congestion in Auckland? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

1597 days ago

Acacia Cove Village has celebrated in style at level 1!

Acacia Cove Village

Top-class entertainers, guests were served, formal attire, decorations were set to impress!

Since level 1, Acacia Cove has had 3 large parties attended by 350 people!

Fantastic night with Jackie Clarke, a night filled with songs, dancing and laughter!

Chris Powley and Chet performed as the… View more
Top-class entertainers, guests were served, formal attire, decorations were set to impress!

Since level 1, Acacia Cove has had 3 large parties attended by 350 people!

Fantastic night with Jackie Clarke, a night filled with songs, dancing and laughter!

Chris Powley and Chet performed as the Topp Twins, and treated with Chet's amazing guitar skills!

Just what everyone needed!
Find out more

1600 days ago

Humanely dealing with pests this winter.

Kylie Klein Nixon Reporter from Homed

Have you ever had a pest problem? I used to have a pet rat. They are smart, affectionate, clever little things. I'd never want to cause one unnecessary pain or suffering, which is why we've chosen to manage pests in our home with traps. It's not ideal, but it's better - and … View moreHave you ever had a pest problem? I used to have a pet rat. They are smart, affectionate, clever little things. I'd never want to cause one unnecessary pain or suffering, which is why we've chosen to manage pests in our home with traps. It's not ideal, but it's better - and safer - than poison. I've done a little research on humane, effective vermin control during the wet months, when they like to come in from the cold. Take a look:

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1598 days ago

New Zealand Wine Guide (2nd Edition) Book Launch

New Zealand School of Food & Wine

We celebrated the launch of the NZ Wine Guide with a wine tasting (naturally) and a guest appearance by illustrious wine maker and winery photographer, Kevin Judd. It is certainly Kevin's photos that provide such meaningful illustrations of the story of New Zealand wine and Kevin joined us … View moreWe celebrated the launch of the NZ Wine Guide with a wine tasting (naturally) and a guest appearance by illustrious wine maker and winery photographer, Kevin Judd. It is certainly Kevin's photos that provide such meaningful illustrations of the story of New Zealand wine and Kevin joined us live from his home in Marlborough.

Our tasting included 15 leading New Zealand Wines
Kumeu River Cremant
Blackenbrook Pinot Gris 2019
Tongue in Groove Riesling 2015
Millton Chenin Blanc 2018
Hans Herzog Mistral: Viognier, Marsanne, Roussane 2017
Kelly Washington Sauvignon Blanc 2017
Kumeu River Hunting Hill Chardonnay 2018
Cambridge Road Pinot Noir 2017
Greywacke Pinot Noir 2017
Burn Cottage Pinot Noir 2016
Passage Rock Syrah 2019
Craggy Range Merlot 2016
Hans Herzog Tempranillo 2015
Oak Estate Late Harvest Chardonnay 2018
Pegasus Bay Finale Noble Sauvignon Semillon 2017

We asked our guests to complete a questionnaire that included about what they liked about the wine: fruit? acid? mouthfeel? and then if they would buy the wine (as price is no object!).

The 5 top rated wines were:
Millton Chenin Blanc 2018
Kumeu River Hunting Hill Chardonnay 2018
Burn Cottage Pinot Noir 2016
Hans Herzog Tempranillo 2015
Pegasus Bay Finale Noble Sauvignon Semillon 2017

The 5 wines that people would buy were:
Millton Chenin Blanc 2018
Oak Estate Late Harvest Chardonnay 2018
Burn Cottage Pinot Noir 2016
Hans Herzog Tempranillo 2015
Pegasus Bay Finale Noble Sauvignon Semillon 2017
Pegasus Bay Finale Noble Sauvignon Semillon was the resounding winner on both questions.

Just goes to show that many kiwis do have a sweet-spot for those luscious white wines...

1598 days ago

New Zealand Wine Guide (2nd Edition) Book Launch

New Zealand School of Food & Wine

We celebrated the launch of the NZ Wine Guide with a wine tasting (naturally) and a guest appearance by illustrious wine maker and winery photographer, Kevin Judd. It is certainly Kevin's photos that provide such meaningful illustrations of the story of New Zealand wine and Kevin joined us … View moreWe celebrated the launch of the NZ Wine Guide with a wine tasting (naturally) and a guest appearance by illustrious wine maker and winery photographer, Kevin Judd. It is certainly Kevin's photos that provide such meaningful illustrations of the story of New Zealand wine and Kevin joined us live from his home in Marlborough.

Our tasting included 15 leading New Zealand Wines
Kumeu River Cremant
Blackenbrook Pinot Gris 2019
Tongue in Groove Riesling 2015
Millton Chenin Blanc 2018
Hans Herzog Mistral: Viognier, Marsanne, Roussane 2017
Kelly Washington Sauvignon Blanc 2017
Kumeu River Hunting Hill Chardonnay 2018
Cambridge Road Pinot Noir 2017
Greywacke Pinot Noir 2017
Burn Cottage Pinot Noir 2016
Passage Rock Syrah 2019
Craggy Range Merlot 2016
Hans Herzog Tempranillo 2015
Oak Estate Late Harvest Chardonnay 2018
Pegasus Bay Finale Noble Sauvignon Semillon 2017

We asked our guests to complete a questionnaire that included about what they liked about the wine: fruit? acid? mouthfeel? and then if they would buy the wine (as price is no object!).

The 5 top rated wines were:
Millton Chenin Blanc 2018
Kumeu River Hunting Hill Chardonnay 2018
Burn Cottage Pinot Noir 2016
Hans Herzog Tempranillo 2015
Pegasus Bay Finale Noble Sauvignon Semillon 2017

The 5 wines that people would buy were:
Millton Chenin Blanc 2018
Oak Estate Late Harvest Chardonnay 2018
Burn Cottage Pinot Noir 2016
Hans Herzog Tempranillo 2015
Pegasus Bay Finale Noble Sauvignon Semillon 2017
Pegasus Bay Finale Noble Sauvignon Semillon was the resounding winner on both questions.

Just goes to show that many kiwis do have a sweet-spot for those luscious white wines...

1598 days ago

Do you know what to plant in the garden right now?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

In this week’s issue of our ezine Get Growing, we list the veges to plant and harvest now plus it’s time to prune and plant roses, give wisteria a winter trim, sprout kūmara runners, chit seed potatoes and choose camellias to plant now.

Meet three generations of bulb grower in Northland and … View more
In this week’s issue of our ezine Get Growing, we list the veges to plant and harvest now plus it’s time to prune and plant roses, give wisteria a winter trim, sprout kūmara runners, chit seed potatoes and choose camellias to plant now.

Meet three generations of bulb grower in Northland and nominate a gardening hero for Ryman Healthcare Gardener of the Year. Plus go in the draw for wild bird packs from Tui and copies of NZ Gardener’s July issue.

Delivered every Friday to your email inbox, Get Growing digital magazine offers seasonal gardening advice from the NZ Gardener magazine's team of experts. Each week we answer all your burning questions on raising fruit and veges and tell you the top tasks to do in your backyard this weekend. Subscribe here:

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1602 days ago

Things that surprise Kiwis returning to NZ

Lorna Thornber Reporter from Stuff Travel

Hi everyone,
I'm working on a travel story for Stuff about the things that have surprised returning Kiwis about New Zealand. If you have recently returned from overseas or know someone who has, it would be great to hear about the things that have stood out for you, for better or for worse. … View more
Hi everyone,
I'm working on a travel story for Stuff about the things that have surprised returning Kiwis about New Zealand. If you have recently returned from overseas or know someone who has, it would be great to hear about the things that have stood out for you, for better or for worse. Whether it's to do with the weather, the cost of things, the public transport, the food, the housing, the people or something else entirely, we'd be keen to hear about it. Please remember that your comment may be included in the article, unless you say you don't want it to be. Thank you.

1599 days ago

This week’s Kind Neighbour is Ann, nominated by Georgina Hamilton from Takanini.

Neighbourly.co.nz

Have you got a Kind Neighbour in your hood? We've teamed up with our mates at AMI to shout-out the good people up and down the country that have been nominated by others in their community. Get your shout outs in to our AMI Kind Neighbour Page and you and your nominee could win a $50 Prezzy® … View moreHave you got a Kind Neighbour in your hood? We've teamed up with our mates at AMI to shout-out the good people up and down the country that have been nominated by others in their community. Get your shout outs in to our AMI Kind Neighbour Page and you and your nominee could win a $50 Prezzy® Card AND a shout out in your local paper! Check out last weeks below ⬇️⬇️

"My neighbour Ann, a retired special ed teacher, goes the extra mile for her community. On her neighbourhood walks she notices blocked drains, or dangerous pavements on school routes and spends time phoning the Council to get them fixed. She is part of a local group that petitioned for new school crossings on Takanini School Road. She volunteers at the local school for free maths tuition. She sets a really great example of looking out for her community and makes the world a better place."

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