Jacqui Dean holds Waitaki
Waitaki's incumbent, National MP Jacqui Dean has sealed a sixth term with 3168 majority win over her nearest challenger, Labour’s Liam Wairepo.
Dean trailed on at least two occasions during the counting but eventually pulled clear, winning with 17,615 votes to Wairepo’s 14,447.
The significance of the Labour swing is seen in the fact that Dean had retained her seat in 2017 with a massive 12,816 margin.
Dean said it had been a “watershed election”, with the tide turning away from the National Party.
However, she was “delighted” to be re-elected as an MP.
“I’ve been an MP since 2005 and I still pinch myself every day and I think how lucky I am.
“The party will have to take stock, but I am proud to be an MP and will continue to hold the Government to account.”
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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