The regions hardest hit by Covid-19 are among New Zealand's most beautiful
The lengthening lines outside Fergburger might suggest otherwise, but New Zealand’s tourism sector is still in fight-for-survival mode.
The hardest hit regions of Fiordland, the West Coast, Queenstown and Dunedin – where spend was down 22 per cent, 20 per cent, 18 per cent and 17 per cent respectively (according to MBIE data) – are also among our most beautiful.
The problem is not that no-one wants to visit them, but that they relied heavily on overseas visitors or tourism in general before the Covid-19 pandemic struck. Even with the domestic tourists they’ve welcomed since the nationwide lockdown ended, they’re still in dire straits.
Pay them a visit on your next break and you’ll be doing them a favour they’ll repay you for many times over in terms of the adventures they offer. Of course it helps that they are all offering some pretty exceptional deals.
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.
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