South Whangarei, Whangarei

119 days ago

A heart-wrenching glimpse into the reality faced by those using Flexible Funding

Glen from Central Whangarei

This survey offers a heart-wrenching glimpse into the reality faced by those using Flexible Funding—a lifeline that has been too often taken for granted. While the government, insistent on slashing this crucial support, claims that time constraints prevented them from engaging with the disabled … View moreThis survey offers a heart-wrenching glimpse into the reality faced by those using Flexible Funding—a lifeline that has been too often taken for granted. While the government, insistent on slashing this crucial support, claims that time constraints prevented them from engaging with the disabled community, the truth is starkly different. They didn’t ask, and therefore, they remain oblivious to the clear message conveyed by those directly affected.

The survey paints a poignant picture: 80% of respondents filled it out on behalf of someone else, while 20% shared their own experiences. And the results are nothing short of compelling. A staggering 98% either Agree (8%) or Strongly Agree (90%) that Flexible Funding has profoundly improved their quality of life compared to other alternatives like residential care. The benefits are manifold—Autonomy and Choice, Tailored Support, Improved Quality of Life, Increased Independence, Community Engagement, Respite for Carers, Access to Therapy and Health Services, Educational and Employment Opportunities, Mental Health and Wellbeing, and Financial Relief.

Moreover, 95% either Agree (25%) or Strongly Agree (70%) that their Host (Manawanui) provides an invaluable service, making the use of Flexible Funding straightforward and effective.

Yet, despite these resounding endorsements, the disabled community is being relentlessly battered, and the disconnect between the government and the lived experiences of these individuals is glaring. Disability is not a switch you can turn on and off—it’s a constant, all-encompassing reality. Experts in the field lament that the sector feels like it’s been thrown back to the outdated thinking of the 1990s, if not further. The attitudes of today’s government towards the disabled are reminiscent of the 1970s, echoing the dark days of sheltered workshops.

It’s profoundly disheartening to witness so many people suffering needlessly due to ignorance and indifference. The current trajectory is not just a policy failure—it’s a betrayal of the very people it is meant to support.

Image
118 days ago

Product recalls

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

These items have been recalled this month. If you have one of these items at home, click on the title to see the details to ensure it is not a risk to your household.

Food recalls:
All Good Oat Milk (Possible presence of Bacillus cereus)
View more
These items have been recalled this month. If you have one of these items at home, click on the title to see the details to ensure it is not a risk to your household.

Food recalls:
All Good Oat Milk (Possible presence of Bacillus cereus)
Pies and sausage roll products - Good Time, Hub Gourmet and No.8 Premium brands
Value range Natural Almonds
South African shop Safari Meats - Biltong, Cabanossi, Droëwors and cured meats
Te Matuku oyster products (Risk of norovirus)

Product recalls:
Olimpia Splendid fan heaters
Euroblade Suntower Infared heater
Bobcat mower with recalled engines
Kids MGA Miniverse Make-it sets
Fisher Price baby gift set

Vehicle recalls can be found here.

We hope this message was helpful in keeping you and your family safe.

118 days ago

Learn How to Enhance Your Sleep Habits with These Strategies

Jay from Beds4U Whangarei

Today, we're delving into the exciting world of snoozing and discussing a topic near and dear to our hearts: investing in better sleep.

We all know that catching those Zzz's is crucial for our overall well-being, but just how much should we be investing to enhance our sleep habits?

View more
Today, we're delving into the exciting world of snoozing and discussing a topic near and dear to our hearts: investing in better sleep.

We all know that catching those Zzz's is crucial for our overall well-being, but just how much should we be investing to enhance our sleep habits?


Let's dive in and find out!

Understanding the Value of Quality Sleep
Before we break down the dollars and cents of sleep investments, let's take a moment to appreciate the incredible benefits of a good night's rest.

Quality sleep isn't just about feeling refreshed in the morning; it's about setting the stage for a healthier, happier life.

From sharpening our memory to reducing stress and even lowering the risk of chronic diseases, the benefits of quality sleep are truly endless.

Exploring Different Sleep Improvement Strategies
Now that we understand the importance of quality sleep let's explore some strategies for enhancing our sleep habits.

From simple lifestyle changes to cutting-edge sleep technology, there's a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference.

1. Lifestyle Changes for Better Sleep
Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most effective.

By making small adjustments to our daily routines, we can significantly improve the quality of our sleep.

Try cutting back on screen time before bed, establishing a consistent sleep schedule, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine to signal your body that it's time to wind down.

2. Cost-Effective Sleep Aids
If you're looking for a little extra help catching those Zzz's, there are plenty of cost-effective sleep aids available.

From herbal supplements to soothing white noise machines, these budget-friendly options can help you drift off to dreamland without breaking the bank.

3. Investing in Sleep Technology
For those who are willing to splurge a bit more on their sleep habits, investing in advanced sleep technology can be a game-changer.

Smart mattresses, sleep trackers, and adjustable bed frames are just a few examples of the high-tech gadgets available to help you optimise your sleep environment and improve your overall sleep quality.

Making Smart Investments in Your Sleep Health
When it comes to investing in better sleep, it's essential to weigh the costs against the potential benefits.

While it may be tempting to opt for the cheapest option available, investing in quality sleep is an investment in your long-term health and well-being.

By considering the economic, emotional, and health-related impacts of poor sleep, you can make informed decisions that will pay off in the long run.

Sweet Dreams and Sound Investments
The value of quality sleep cannot be overstated.

By investing in better sleep habits, you're not just improving your nights – you're investing in a healthier, happier future.

Whether you're making simple lifestyle changes or splurging on the latest sleep technology, Beds4U is here to support you every step of the way.

Visit our website today to explore our wide range of beds, mattresses, and furniture and take the first step towards a better night's sleep.

Sweet dreams, sleep seekers!

Image
118 days ago

GSM Solutions Whangarei- One stop repair store

Sanju from GSM Solutions Whangarei

GSM Solutions is Whangarei's leading iPhone, Samsung, MacBook, mobile phone, tablet & computer repair specialists. We do motherboard and logic board repairs.

Negotiable

Image
129 days ago

Council decision on Māori ward

The Team from Whangarei District Council

Council has decided to retain the Whangarei District Māori Ward for the 2025 Local ELection and conduct a binding poll alongside that election to determine whether Māori Wards will be in place for the 2028 and 2031 elections.

Candidates will stand in all five General Wards and in … View more
Council has decided to retain the Whangarei District Māori Ward for the 2025 Local ELection and conduct a binding poll alongside that election to determine whether Māori Wards will be in place for the 2028 and 2031 elections.

Candidates will stand in all five General Wards and in Whangārei’s Māori Ward in 2025.

Image
119 days ago

Wendy & John's Winter Escapes

Jane Mander Retirement Village

Winter’s almost over, and while many of us are shaking off the chilly months spent indoors, Wendy and John from Keith Park Village have been making the most of every moment. For this couple, winter isn’t a time to hunker down – it’s the perfect season to jet off to warmer climates and … View moreWinter’s almost over, and while many of us are shaking off the chilly months spent indoors, Wendy and John from Keith Park Village have been making the most of every moment. For this couple, winter isn’t a time to hunker down – it’s the perfect season to jet off to warmer climates and explore hidden corners of the world.

Click read more for the full story.

Image
120 days ago

Have you got your tickets yet?

Heart Foundation Lottery

For only $15 a ticket, you could win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in the coastal town of Cooks Beach, Coromandel.

With golden sandy beaches and lush Coromandel bush, what's not to love about the 150th Heart Foundation Lottery?

Valued at over $1.2 million, this … View more
For only $15 a ticket, you could win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in the coastal town of Cooks Beach, Coromandel.

With golden sandy beaches and lush Coromandel bush, what's not to love about the 150th Heart Foundation Lottery?

Valued at over $1.2 million, this home features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area. It is waiting to be loved by its new owner.

Make this property your permanent residence, a classic Kiwi holiday escape, a rental, or simply sell it!

Get your tickets today at heartlottery.org.nz.
Find out more

Image
121 days ago

240 Volt Lamp

Brent from Ruakaka

Purchased for a 1905 Villa in Singapore in 1983.

Price: $20

Image
127 days ago

LIVE Q&A: Financial well-being with Cat Rikihana

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Today (Wednesday) we're having another Neighbourly Q&A session. This time with Cat Rikihana who is a financial mentor, educator and financial capability practitioner at Financial Freedom Trust in the Manawatū.

Cat Rikihana (Ngai Tahu) like many financial mentors around Aotearoa, works … View more
Today (Wednesday) we're having another Neighbourly Q&A session. This time with Cat Rikihana who is a financial mentor, educator and financial capability practitioner at Financial Freedom Trust in the Manawatū.

Cat Rikihana (Ngai Tahu) like many financial mentors around Aotearoa, works with individuals, groups and whānau to successfully navigate financial stress and hardship. Mentors work alongside whānau to increase confidence and skills in personal money management and advocate with and for clients. Cat enjoys delivering online and face-to-face workshops which provide opportunities to normalise money conversations and encourages people to make time to consider their financial well-being.

Cat is also an independent financial well-being coach, educator and indigenous life coach at Restore Wellness Network. She is a published writer and currently in the process of writing her first non-fiction book: 'A financial self-care guide for women in Aotearoa.'

She'd love to answer any questions you may have around your budgeting and spending habits, strategies for saving, retirement planning and debt. (Don't be shy, but be mindful about what you disclose!)

↓ Share your questions now and Cat will reply to your comment below ↓

Image
D
122 days ago

Sleepout to rent

David from South Whangarei

Sleepout to rent

Image
122 days ago

Poll: When shopping at Beds4U website, do you prefer in-store pickup or home delivery?

Jay from Beds4U Whangarei

Delivery Preferences:

When shopping at Beds4U website, do you prefer in-store pickup or home delivery?

Image
When shopping at Beds4U website, do you prefer in-store pickup or home delivery?
  • 13.6% In-store pickup, I like to see the product first!
    13.6% Complete
  • 63.6% Home delivery, for convenience.
    63.6% Complete
  • 22.7% Depends on the situation :)
    22.7% Complete
44 votes
122 days ago

Landscape painter

The Team from Resene ColorShop Whangarei

Make your own wall art from leftover MDF and Resene testpots. Nikki Kettle’s abstract piece was inspired by her local environment.

Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.

Image
123 days ago

Dual bird feeder

Resene

Put an empty wine bottle to good use with this feeder finished in Resene Clover that can cater for a range of garden birds.

Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.
Find out more

Image
124 days ago

Some Neighbourly news...

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Have you been using Neighbourly Groups? You may have joined some gardening groups or general chat groups over the years.

Members have told us that this part of the site isn't working as it should, so we are going to remove it for now.

So, in a few weeks Neighbourly Groups will no longer … View more
Have you been using Neighbourly Groups? You may have joined some gardening groups or general chat groups over the years.

Members have told us that this part of the site isn't working as it should, so we are going to remove it for now.

So, in a few weeks Neighbourly Groups will no longer be there. Don't worry, you can post on the noticeboard as usual!

Get in contact with our team if you have any concerns or need any help!

R
124 days ago

Large Bed Wedge

Roger from Kamo

Large folding bed wedge which has been used but is in good condition.

An Icare Bed Wedge can be used to elevate the upper body to alleviate acid reflux, respiratory problems, and back or neck pain.
It can also be used to increase circulation and reduce conditions such as varicose veins and … View more
Large folding bed wedge which has been used but is in good condition.

An Icare Bed Wedge can be used to elevate the upper body to alleviate acid reflux, respiratory problems, and back or neck pain.
It can also be used to increase circulation and reduce conditions such as varicose veins and swelling in the legs.
Measurements:

Length: 73cm
Width: 68cm
Depth: 24cm (thick end)

Pick up Kamo.

Price: $60

Top