Mount Cook, Wellington

Fair play

Fair play

Whether it’s a playhouse, she shed or teenager’s sleepout, a stencil-painted floor in Resene Clockwork Orange will elevate it from meh to wow.

652 days ago

Big news for the region as our Dark Skies acknowledged!

Denise Landow from Destination Wairarapa

Look up at the stars tonight!

The Wairarapa has just received official international Dark Sky Reserve status meaning our night sky is among the best places in the world to view the never-ending star filled skies above.

We’re pretty lucky to have an official Dark Sky Reserve right on our … View more
Look up at the stars tonight!

The Wairarapa has just received official international Dark Sky Reserve status meaning our night sky is among the best places in the world to view the never-ending star filled skies above.

We’re pretty lucky to have an official Dark Sky Reserve right on our doorstep and only an hour’s drive from Wellington.

Although we can all spot the Southern Cross and the Pot, there’s much more to see! Experts at local dark sky tours Milky Way Kiwi, Stonehenge Aotearoa and Under The Stars, can guide you through the sky with telescopes to help make sense of what’s up above.

Plus, you can still get star action during the day at the Wairarapa Space Science Centre in Carterton, perfect for the whole family.

With Wings Over Wairarapa in February and the Wairarapa Balloon Festival on it's way the sky's the limit!

Read the DomPost story:
www.stuff.co.nz...


Find out more here, www.wairarapanz.com......
Photo credit: Pete Monk | Photographer

Image
652 days ago

How to Clean a Burnt Pan — 5 Methods Tested

Robert Anderson from Curtain Clean Wellington (The Wash House)

Ever wonder how to clean a burnt pan? See what happened when we put different cleaning methods to the test on our dirtiest skillets.

Whether you burn dinner completely or your pans get dirtier and dirtier over time, eventually you’ll need to have a scouring session at the sink. And for this, … View more
Ever wonder how to clean a burnt pan? See what happened when we put different cleaning methods to the test on our dirtiest skillets.

Whether you burn dinner completely or your pans get dirtier and dirtier over time, eventually you’ll need to have a scouring session at the sink. And for this, the quicker the better! For this reason, we put five methods for cleaning a burnt pan to the test. Keep reading to learn how to clean a burnt pan—and see what methods are most effective.

Is a burnt pan ruined?
In most cases, no! A burnt pan can be revived with our cleaning methods below. If all else fails, or if the pan has endured multiple years of heavy use and never seems to get clean, it may be time to part ways with it.

The Testing Method: In an effort to make sure this guide gives you the most accurate results, we put some parameters in place for this skillet scrubbing experiment. All pans tested were made of stainless steel and scorched with the same combination of foods—cheese, eggs and grape jelly.

If the method recommended soaking, we allowed each pan to soak for up to 15 minutes, checking at intervals of 5 minutes and documenting when the charred remains began to lift with ease. We also limited any extra “active scrubbing” to 10 minutes because honestly, who wants to scrub a pan for longer than that?!

Ratings: Each method is rated on a scale of 1 to 5. Ratings were awarded based on how long each technique took to work its magic, how much extra elbow grease was required to remove the burnt-on food and the overall effectiveness in the cleaning process in terms of how much mess remained on the skillet after cleaning within our set parameters.

Cleaning Techniques for Greasy Skillets: Warning: Before cleaning your pans, test the method on a small, inconspicuous portion to ensure it won’t damage the surface. The methods below are intended for stainless steel cookware and not those with non-stick coatings.

Tools and Supplies

Bar Keepers Friend: We tested Bar Keepers Friend for one of our cleaning methods and the results were impressive. It’s a household cleaning product everyone should have in their cupboard since it can be used on a variety of surfaces like stainless steel, ceramic and more. It’ll be your new cleaning best friend in no time.

Dishwashing gloves: Though all of our testing methods require less scrubbing, some scrubbing is necessary. Keep hands dry and clean with these versatile dishwashing gloves. We love that it features a non-drip catch cuff and that they can be used for washing dishes, cleaning the bathroom and everything in between.

Sponges: It’s always a good idea to have a stockpile of sponges on hand for everyday household cleaning. When it comes to cleaning kitchen appliances or cookware, opt for non-scratch sponges. They’re durable enough to get burnt food residue off, yet gentle enough that they won’t scratch or tarnish your best gear.

Method 1: Baking Soda + Vinegar

Benefits: This method uses affordable pantry items most people have on hand.

How It Works: Fill your dirty pan with equal part water and vinegar. Bring the mixture to a boil and then add 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Remove from heat and let soak for up to 15 minutes. Discard the liquid down your drain and then use a sponge or scouring pad to scrub away any remaining burnt-on bits. If spots remain, apply a paste made of baking soda mixed with a little water and let sit for a few minutes before scrubbing again.

What Happened: After just 5 minutes of soaking, we noticed some charred bits starting to float to the surface! However, we opted to let this one continue to soak for the full 15 minutes since it seemed some stubborn bits were holding fast. After rinsing and 10 minutes of heavy scrubbing with a scouring pad we were able to lift most of the charred, burnt-on food. A follow-up application of baking soda paste was definitely needed and further scrubbing was essential to lift the remaining debris. Rating: 3/5

Keep reading: www.curtainclean.co.nz...

Image
653 days ago

Poll: Who should be the next Labour party leader?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has announced she will resign as prime minister before February 7.
With this year's general election scheduled for Saturday, October 14, discussions surrounding the new leader of the Labour Party are in progress.

Share your thoughts below (include Not For … View more
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has announced she will resign as prime minister before February 7.
With this year's general election scheduled for Saturday, October 14, discussions surrounding the new leader of the Labour Party are in progress.

Share your thoughts below (include Not For Print if you don't wish for your comments to be published)

Image
Who should be the next Labour party leader?
  • 3.2% Kelvin Davis
    3.2% Complete
  • 2.3% Megan Woods
    2.3% Complete
  • 53.8% Chris Hipkins
    53.8% Complete
  • 3.9% Michael Wood
    3.9% Complete
  • 8.3% Someone else (Comment Below)
    8.3% Complete
  • 28.4% I have no idea
    28.4% Complete
2194 votes
652 days ago
652 days ago

Addictive Eaters Anonymous

The Team from Addictive Eaters Anonymous - Wellington

MONTHLY AEA WEB EVENTS
The AEA Web Event is a monthly online meeting where AEA members from all over the world come together to share their experience, strength and hope. Three members speak for 10 minutes each, followed by member sharing.

The AEA Web Event is held on the 3rd Sunday of each … View more
MONTHLY AEA WEB EVENTS
The AEA Web Event is a monthly online meeting where AEA members from all over the world come together to share their experience, strength and hope. Three members speak for 10 minutes each, followed by member sharing.

The AEA Web Event is held on the 3rd Sunday of each month which is this Sunday 22 January at 9.00am.
ALL NEWCOMERS WELCOME

Image
H
653 days ago

Free mattress

Heike from Mount Victoria

Free queen mattress, no stains or mold. Pick-up from Mt Vic, ground floor, drive on access.

Free

Image
654 days ago

Want trusted pet insurance?

Southern Cross Pet Insurance

Whether your pet likes taking an afternoon nap or leaping that gap (that’s a little too big for them), you can relax knowing they’re covered by a trusted pet insurer.

Sign up with Southern Cross Pet Insurance today.
Find out more

Image
655 days ago

Ray White Garden Trail returns!

WAIKANAE LIONS CLUB

Enjoy a relaxing summer's weekend on the 28th – 29th January exploring 12 beautiful gardens from Otaihanga through to Peka Peka.

Discover hidden gems and gain ideas and inspiration for your own gardens and outdoor spaces.

Featuring popular gardens from previous years and several new … View more
Enjoy a relaxing summer's weekend on the 28th – 29th January exploring 12 beautiful gardens from Otaihanga through to Peka Peka.

Discover hidden gems and gain ideas and inspiration for your own gardens and outdoor spaces.

Featuring popular gardens from previous years and several new gardens, the trail is sure to delight garden lovers of all ages and stages.

Tickets are available now on Eventfinda and at selected locations and are $25 per person for one day, or $40 per person for two days with all proceeds going to Kāpiti Youth Support and Kāpiti District Nurses.

Book now at : www.eventfinda.co.nz
Book now

Image
A
656 days ago

Free hay for small pets

Adam from Berhampore

We bought the wrong hay for our bunnies, so we have this opened but unused 55 litre pile of Meadow Hay from Animates, valued at $40. Just BYO box or big bag to take it away for free.

Free

Image
656 days ago

Do you need a Retaining Wall?

Price Smart from

Contact us today to speak to your local decking professionals. Our experienced team creates beautiful decks with the fine details being at the heart of every design. If what you are thinking starts with a deck we have you covered.
Speak to a friendly professional 7 days a week on 027 548 9818.
View more
Contact us today to speak to your local decking professionals. Our experienced team creates beautiful decks with the fine details being at the heart of every design. If what you are thinking starts with a deck we have you covered.
Speak to a friendly professional 7 days a week on 027 548 9818.
Visit our website www.pricesmart.co.nz... to get in touch to book a site visit.

Image
659 days ago

School holiday craft

The Team from Resene ColorShop Basin Reserve

Splash some colour around your home these holidays with paper roll pals, breakfast trays and a stationery caddy finished in Resene testpots.

Find out how to create your own.

Image
659 days ago

Feeling the heat neighbours?

Resene

Did you know you can enjoy a cooler finish with Resene CoolColour Planning to use a dark coloured paint or wood stain on your home?

Choose a Resene CoolColour finish that will help reflect more heat and keep your place cooler.

Available in a wide range of colours and products from your … View more
Did you know you can enjoy a cooler finish with Resene CoolColour Planning to use a dark coloured paint or wood stain on your home?

Choose a Resene CoolColour finish that will help reflect more heat and keep your place cooler.

Available in a wide range of colours and products from your local Resene ColorShop.
Find out more

Image
S
661 days ago

Stray Cat or Someones Pet?

Sophia from Brooklyn

Hi, I stayed in Booklyn a few weeks ago and befriended a cat. I have returned to stay here for another week while waiting for a house to move into. The cat has eagerly returned looking for food. She/he is very skinny. I'm wondering if it is owned or whether I should take it to the SPCA. I… View moreHi, I stayed in Booklyn a few weeks ago and befriended a cat. I have returned to stay here for another week while waiting for a house to move into. The cat has eagerly returned looking for food. She/he is very skinny. I'm wondering if it is owned or whether I should take it to the SPCA. I can't keep her/him as Im moving to a rental. Photo attached. Contact me on 02102468879 or post on here.

Image
R
661 days ago

Free corner sofa suite

Robert from Mount Victoria

L shaped corner suite with 2 couches and a chair.
Has damage from the sun but otherwise very comfortable. Approximate sizes

2100x1000x650
1800x1000x650
800x1000x650

Free

661 days ago

Lavish opportunities for local lavender lovers this weekend!

Denise Landow from Destination Wairarapa

Several Wairarapa lavender growers open their farm gates this weekend so you can experience something beautiful right in your own neighbourhood.

Lavender picking is great in itself and there's also the added bonus of taking romantic picturesque photos among the purple-hued rows of blooms. … View more
Several Wairarapa lavender growers open their farm gates this weekend so you can experience something beautiful right in your own neighbourhood.

Lavender picking is great in itself and there's also the added bonus of taking romantic picturesque photos among the purple-hued rows of blooms. Capture yourself and loved ones at one of our local growers this weekend - a neat outing if you have friends and family staying.

Our growers also have their special products available for sale on site. Picking fields are located at Masterton, Carterton and Martinborough (details below) - each has its own unique offering, including one with evening star gazing!

Make the most of these special crops this weekend while the flowers are in abundant full bloom.

Martinborough lavender picking and star gazing
Saturday 14 January 8.30pm, Ranui Essentials 284C Dry River Road, Martinborough

Bring your telescope, a torch and an evening picnic for a 'Under the Stars' session with astronomy guides to help you navigate the night sky. Watch the sun set and pick some lavender. $5 entry per person, and kids are free.

Pick Your Own Lavender in Carterton
Saturday 14 - Sunday 15 January, Lavender Abbey, 351 Dalefield Road Carterton

Bring your camera, a picnic, and enjoy an outing with family and friends visiting over summer. PYO bunch of lavender for $5. Check out 'The Big Box of Lavender' shop while you're there.

Lavender picking and open day at Jaydee's Lavender near Masterton
Sunday 15 January, 78b Te Ore Ore Road, Bideford, Masterton

Lavender picking and open day. Come along to this lavender field and explore the new shop full of treasures and award-winning Grosso lavender oil. Remember to bring your scissors for cutting the lavender. Entry is by gold coin donation per person, per bunch of lavender.

There is also Lavender Magic, located at 61 Blakes Road, Mt Holdsworth, Carterton.

Image
Top