Friday Feathered Friend
Our Friday Feathered Friend for Christmas Day is this beautiful tīeke, photographed by Louise Thomas.
"Just back from a week-long birding trip to Whanganui, New Plymouth, and Mt Ruapehu. We took the opportunity to visit Bushy Park, the predator-fenced sanctuary in Whanganui. We had got out of the car and were reading the signs for the tracks and types of birds. In my normal over exuberant fashion I said to my husband and adult kids that I would die happy if I saw a saddleback. We were five metres into the first track when four of them flew up the path chasing each other and almost took my head off.
My daughter asked if I'd like to end myself now, or wait a bit in case I saw some other cool birds. I was a bit upset at first as I thought they might be the only saddlebacks I would see and I didn't get a photo. Turns out there are quite a few there. I will definitely be visiting again. Saddleback/tīeke (Philesturnus rufusater)."
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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77% Yes
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21.6% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
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.
Sustainable Christmas market
Now on, until 3pm, sat 30 Nov 2024
Forresters Lane, welly cbd (off Tory St, opposite Bunnings)
Including Crazy Creatures hadmade oddies from right here in Newlands!