Whakatāne turns it on for Oxfam
Amanda Wright, Event Manager at Oxfam New Zealand, says her team is delighted with how the event went and was quick to praise locals for their support. “We’ve had amazing feedback from our Trailwalkers about what an incredible experience it was and what warmth and support they got along the way from residents and those at the checkpoints,” she says.
“Teams commented on the great hospitality – things like kids running with them along the beach, messages of encouragement written in the sand, and signs welcoming them in front yards – and it is this kind of community involvement that really makes for an amazing journey. We’d like to thank all the Trailwalkers and volunteers for their efforts, and our sponsors, Whakatāne District Council, and the people of Whakatāne for making it such a huge success — we are already looking forward to next year!”
Read the full article on our website: www.whakatane.govt.nz...
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.