Who's setting off fireworks tonight?! 😄💥
Fireworks are a ton of fun but carry real risks that need to be taken seriously. If you plan on lighting some here's some tips to keep everyone in your community safe and happy.
❌ 1. Never light fireworks in dry or windy conditions.
🔥 2. Only use fireworks in wide open areas, away from flammable items such as trees, grasses, gas tanks, and wood.
💦 3. Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby.
👧 4. Children should never light fireworks themselves and need to be supervised closely at all times.
🧰 5. Keep all unlit fireworks in a secure bag or container away from any source of fire until they are ready to be used.
📞 6. Be considerate and let neighbours know if you're planning to set off fireworks. Aim to finish at a reasonable time.
🐱 7. Keep pets comfortable and secure inside. The loud booms and flashing lights can easily scare them off.
🐮 8. Avoid lighting off fireworks around farm animals and be aware of any newborns or elderly neighbours who may also be affected. If possible, change locations to somewhere that minimises any disturbances.
🌿 9. Be a tidy Kiwi and let's work together to keep New Zealand beautiful! Clean up any any rubbish and leave your spot better than you found it.
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.
A twist on tradition
Whether it’s a table setting, for the tree or a shelf display, use Resene FX Metallics to create your own modern Christmas decor. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.
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