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Just found out (I was in Germany in May and half of June) that while I was away "In May, the government quashed all current pay equity claims, including those from teachers, and passed legislation preventing new claims for 10 years"
I searched on Neighbourly for comments on that but … View moreJust found out (I was in Germany in May and half of June) that while I was away "In May, the government quashed all current pay equity claims, including those from teachers, and passed legislation preventing new claims for 10 years"
I searched on Neighbourly for comments on that but found absolutely nothing - has this disgraceful law passed everyone by?
Who doesn’t love a freebie - especially on their birthday?
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According to University of Canterbury marketing professor Ekant Veer, it makes us feel like we’re “winning” at life.
He told RNZ last week: “Treasure hunting is still within the … View moreWho doesn’t love a freebie - especially on their birthday?
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According to University of Canterbury marketing professor Ekant Veer, it makes us feel like we’re “winning” at life.
He told RNZ last week: “Treasure hunting is still within the psyche of every human to say, ‘I feel like I’ve accomplished something and I’ve done it for free’.”
The promise of free stuff is particularly tempting when the cost of living is high. A freebie at the supermarket might just ease the pain of forking out more than $10 for butter.
Restaurants and retailers know this, so many of them offer customers a free treat or gift on their birthday. You have to be signed up to rewards programmes or a membership to benefit from most of them - but it might just be worth the constant barrage of emails in your inbox.
So, here are just some of the perks, free food and vouchers you can nab on your birthday across New Zealand.
Food and drink
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If you’re like me, your day truly starts when you take that first sip of coffee - so it makes sense to kick off our birthday freebie crawl with a hot beverage.
You can get a free hot drink from Columbus Coffee cafes throughout the country if you’re signed up to Columbus Rewards, and if one isn’t enough, you can get another beverage on Starbucks through their rewards programme.
If you’re after a sweet treat to go with your coffee - and you’re in Auckland - head into Krispy Kreme and get yourself a pack of 4 original glazed Krispy Kreme donuts for free, as long as you’ve signed up to their Inner Circle rewards programme at least 4 weeks before your birthday.
Subway also offers loyalty members a free cookie and drink with a meal purchase on their birthday. If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, you can claim a free birthday burger from Burgerfuel if you’re a long-time VIB member. If you’re a new member or use your membership very rarely, it’s buy one popular burger, get one free.
Mexicali Fresh will sort you out with a free birthday taco with a $10 spend, and while we’re on that Mexican wave, sign up to Mexico’s Love Mexico app and get $10 to spend on your birthday.
Fancy a cheeky Nando’s? If you’re signed up to Nando’s PeriPerks, you’ll get a $15 voucher to spend during your birthday month.
And Mama Brown’s in Wellington will shout you a free meal and drink if you bring along a friend who orders and pays for their own, available five days either side of your actual birthday.
Shopping
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It’s not just cafes and eateries that will shout you a birthday gift, so make sure you add a stop at the shops to your itinerary. If you haven’t signed up for a membership at your favourite clothing or tech stores because it’s too much hassle, think again; it could really pay off when your birthday rolls around.
I don’t know about you, but nothing calms me like browsing the Farmers homeware department, so best believe I was overjoyed to find that if you have a Farmers club card, you can opt in to get a free birthday gift.
If you sign up for a Country Road membership you can get rewards ranging from $10-$100 on your birthday.
Bendon also offers members a birthday gift of $10 off a purchase, while North Beach Locals can get $20 voucher on their birthday. If you’re the outdoorsy type, then Kathmandu’s Out There Rewards has you covered, while Palmers Rewards members can get a $10 birthday voucher from the garden centre chain.
For the beauty gurus, Mecca’s Beauty Loop programme will also earn you a free gift on your birthday.
If you’re the crafty type, you can get a birthday voucher from Spotlight through their VIP club.
Hoyts Cinemas offers a birthday reward of a free drink or small popcorn for members, while Silky Otter Club members can get a free movie ticket from the boutique cinema during their birthday week - as well as a birthday treat if they upgrade to a Platinum membership.
And for the techie, Noel Leeming will gift you a voucher to spend.
Activities
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Eaten and shopped (for free) to your heart’s content? Turns out there’s plenty of free ways to pass the time on your birthday.
So, round up your mates for some good old-fashioned group activities and enjoy the birthday VIP treatment.
If you’re in Wellington and relish the idea of taking aim at your mates for free while they pay for the privilege, maybe you can talk 10 of them into heading along to Wellington Paintball Corp on your birthday with you - you’ll get free entry.
Gloputt Mini Golf in Takapuna, Auckland will let you play for free on your birthday - just bring your ID.
And the budding marine biologist in the family will get free entry to Kelly Tarlton’s in Auckland on their birthday.
If you’re after something more relaxing, you can get a free one-hour massage at Optihealth in Auckland with a refundable booking fee, if you’ve visited in the past six months.
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Brush up your painting skills and brighten your wash days. There’s no two ways about it, doing laundry is a chore so why not inject a sense of fun into it with a quick refresh? Paint a striped ceiling with Resene SpaceCote Flat, a blackboard with Resene FX Blackboard Paint, stencil words with … View moreBrush up your painting skills and brighten your wash days. There’s no two ways about it, doing laundry is a chore so why not inject a sense of fun into it with a quick refresh? Paint a striped ceiling with Resene SpaceCote Flat, a blackboard with Resene FX Blackboard Paint, stencil words with Resene SpaceCote Flat and Resene Enamacryl. Find out how to refresh your laundry with these easy step by step instructions.
We are a new support group for seniors. We meet once a month to share our experience and discuss our challenges & concerns.
With the growth of our ageing population, and more seniors living alone, this group would explore and advocate/address the social, emotional and physical needs of our … View moreWe are a new support group for seniors. We meet once a month to share our experience and discuss our challenges & concerns.
With the growth of our ageing population, and more seniors living alone, this group would explore and advocate/address the social, emotional and physical needs of our seniors, and promote positive and healthy ageing.
We meet on the first Saturday afternoon of the month in Mt. Roskill.
If you are interested in joining us and contribute your ideas, knowledge, experience, talents and resources, we would love to hear from you. Please contact us at agewellkiwi@gmail.com.
Hey neighbours!
Ever feel like you’re running on empty? Between work, family, and everything else, sleep often gets pushed to the back burner. But a good night’s sleep really does make a difference for mood, energy, and overall health.
This article talks about why more Kiwis are choosing to … View moreHey neighbours!
Ever feel like you’re running on empty? Between work, family, and everything else, sleep often gets pushed to the back burner. But a good night’s sleep really does make a difference for mood, energy, and overall health.
This article talks about why more Kiwis are choosing to invest in better sleep — and how Beds4U can help you find a mattress that actually works for you. Check out the article here: www.stuff.co.nz...
Would love to hear how you all make time for rest in your busy lives!
Dr Seif El-Jack, one of Auckland's leading Cardiologists, and Team Lead Cardiologist at Waitemata Health District, will be giving a HeartTALK on heart disease and treatments after discharge from hospital, at Sunnynook Community Centre, North Shore, on Thursday 28th August.
This open forum … View moreDr Seif El-Jack, one of Auckland's leading Cardiologists, and Team Lead Cardiologist at Waitemata Health District, will be giving a HeartTALK on heart disease and treatments after discharge from hospital, at Sunnynook Community Centre, North Shore, on Thursday 28th August.
This open forum talk is sponsored by Heartbeats, New Zealand's largest community-led, peer-peer cardiac support group.
- if you have been diagnosed with a heart issue, had major heart surgery and lie awake, anxious at night, wondering what is my future now,
- if you have left hospital and are adrift out there with no idea how to 'get your head back in the game', or what to do to survive and not hav another frightening heart attack,
THEN THIS TALK IS FOR YOU!
Come along, bring a friend or family member, and hear what Dr Seif El-Jack has to say about treatment and management of your heart issue, and where to go to get help.
WHERE: Sunnynook Community Centre, 148 Sycamore Dr, Sunnynook
WHEN: Thursday 28th August
TIME: 7:00 - 8:00pm
EVERYONE IS WELCOME, its informal, friendly and open discussion following Dr El-Jacks talk. He will be answering ANY and ALL QUESTIONS from the group.
Linda, who goes by her middle name, Anne, went missing about 11.31am on Wednesday and was last seen on Allendale Rd.
Police say she has dementia, and her family are concerned for her welfare.
“She was last seen wearing black pants, grey mid-calf Uggs, a cream hoodie and pink shirt … View moreLinda, who goes by her middle name, Anne, went missing about 11.31am on Wednesday and was last seen on Allendale Rd.
Police say she has dementia, and her family are concerned for her welfare.
“She was last seen wearing black pants, grey mid-calf Uggs, a cream hoodie and pink shirt underneath,” police said in a statement.
“If you see Anne, please call police on 111 and use the reference number 250820/8221.”
Information can also be reported via the police phone number 105, clicking “Update Report” and using the same reference number.
Anne’s son posted on Facebook, saying his mother had gone missing from a care home. He described her as 155cm, with a small build and long brown/blonde ponytail.
“She has no phone, wallet [or] keys on her person and is able to walk quite quickly – last time she wandered, she covered 2km in about 24 minutes.
“If you are in Mount Albert, Avondale, Sandringham, Point Chevalier, Waterview or nearby suburbs, please keep an eye out and call 111 immediately if you see her.”
He told the Herald his mother could be heading towards Howick to her old home.
“Mum’s a smart, wily person and a humble and proud person, and if she’s found, she’ll say she won’t need any help,” he said.
“But she will. She can’t really say much more than that with her memory issues. Please support her if she is found.
“If someone finds her, please keep her warm, keep her safe and sheltered and phone the police.”
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Some of the best moments are shared over food. That’s why we’re giving you 10,000 New World Dollars when you sign up to an independent apartment or townhouse by 30 September 2025.*
We’ll cover the grocery bills, so you can spend less time worrying about what’s in the trolley and more … View moreSome of the best moments are shared over food. That’s why we’re giving you 10,000 New World Dollars when you sign up to an independent apartment or townhouse by 30 September 2025.*
We’ll cover the grocery bills, so you can spend less time worrying about what’s in the trolley and more time enjoying who’s around the table.
And because life at Ryman means less home maintenance, you’ll have even more time for the things you love.
*Participating villages only, promotion terms and Clubcard terms and conditions apply.
12 lots a 10 balls available • Pickup in Green Bay (we live opposite Green Bay High School)
The only mainland Royal Albatross breeding colony in the world can be found at Dunedin's Taiaroa Head. The Albatross are largest (and arguably the prettiest) seabird and is a taonga species to Māori.
Keen to see a fluffy royal albatross live? Head to the Royal Cam - a 24-hour live stream … View moreThe only mainland Royal Albatross breeding colony in the world can be found at Dunedin's Taiaroa Head. The Albatross are largest (and arguably the prettiest) seabird and is a taonga species to Māori.
Keen to see a fluffy royal albatross live? Head to the Royal Cam - a 24-hour live stream of an albatross nest.
Why the live feed? Well, the royal albatross are slow-breeding birds, and lay only one egg every two years.
Currently the chick in the feed is in its post-guard period, and is left alone. The parents are only returning with food every few days. This little chick will be hitting a milestone really soon - it will finally take their first flight in September! Keep an eye on our little celebrity here.
We hope this link brings a smile!
The action is in response to what the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) describes as an “appalling” pay offer from the Government.
The Government has offered a 1% pay rise every year for three years in collective agreement negotiations.
PPTA president Chris Abercrombie said the … View moreThe action is in response to what the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) describes as an “appalling” pay offer from the Government.
The Government has offered a 1% pay rise every year for three years in collective agreement negotiations.
PPTA president Chris Abercrombie said the offer was the lowest increase in a generation and between 18,000 and 19,000 teachers would be protesting today.
He said the Government’s offer was “appalling” and argued it failed to help efforts to recruit and retain teachers within the workforce.
“We’re really disappointed that we have to strike, it’s not what we want, we want to be in the classroom teaching,” Abercrombie said.
“But what we’re striking for is basically to get the Government to move the needle on these offers.”
He claimed the Government was also failing to address other PPTA claims such as the need for more pastoral care staffing, professional development for curriculum and assessment, and more support for curriculum leaders who will be working on upcoming NCEA changes.
Abercrombie said if no progress was made, they would also roster students home and not teach certain year levels on specific days from September 15.
Speaking to reporters yesterday, Public Service Minister Judith Collins said the PPTA striking after only six days of bargaining without taking the offer of 1% a year for three years to members was appalling, disingenuous and a “political stunt”.
She said it would disrupt students as they prepared for important exams.
“I think what’s really upset the unions is that we’re actually putting some facts out there and they’d much rather just go straight to strike and not go to the bargaining table, and my comments are very clear – get to the bargaining table. Stop having little tantrums as the unions decide to do.”
Papatoetoe High School principal Vaughan Couillault said parents who were worried about their child missing class time should remain engaged with their school on the day, or by emailing their teacher.
He said no one wanted industrial action where learning time was lost, whether it was a teacher or government minister, and the sooner people could get back around the table and restart negotiations the better.
“Yes, every day matters and it is disruptive, but it’s not necessarily going to be mission critical to how the exams go in November for some students, or the assessment,” Couillault said.
“On Thursday everyone’s back in and getting work under way.”
Most teachers would have built into their learning programmes the ability for students to miss one day of learning, he said.
Minister apologises for pay slip-up
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Collins also earlier apologised for incorrectly claiming that secondary school teachers with 10 years’ experience got paid $147,000.
Data provided by Collins’ own office shows 1.8% of teachers earned more than $140,000.
Labour’s education spokeswoman Willow-Jean Prime said the comment was “hugely disrespectful”.
“I think that it was really harmful, her comments, in the lead-up to the strikes... to be spreading such misinformation about what teachers are actually earning,” Prime said.
Collins apologised but said “the key point remains that teachers are not underpaid”.
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Get $40 off Resene’s quality range of 10L paints, wood stains, primers and sealers with your Resene DIY card.
Plus buy 1 60-80 mL testpot get 1 free! Visit your local Resene ColorShop or reseller and get started on your decorating project.
Choose from the widest range of Eco Choice approved… View moreGet $40 off Resene’s quality range of 10L paints, wood stains, primers and sealers with your Resene DIY card.
Plus buy 1 60-80 mL testpot get 1 free! Visit your local Resene ColorShop or reseller and get started on your decorating project.
Choose from the widest range of Eco Choice approved paints all made right here in New Zealand.
Hear from our team on how rates are set and ask your questions at our upcoming webinar.
📅 Thursday 21 August, 6 - 7.30pm
Join us online to learn about:
- Why and how the council sets rates
- Revaluation and its impact on rates
- See why some Aucklanders have had greater rates changes … View moreHear from our team on how rates are set and ask your questions at our upcoming webinar.
📅 Thursday 21 August, 6 - 7.30pm
Join us online to learn about:
- Why and how the council sets rates
- Revaluation and its impact on rates
- See why some Aucklanders have had greater rates changes than others
- Assistance available to ratepayers
- There will be an opportunity to have your questions answered
ℹ️ Find out more and register here: tinyurl.com...
From a house clearance. VERY clean, looks like new. Only selling because we already have a slow cooker that I use for goulash as the meat gets VERY tender in it (or as an old neighbourette said whom I sometimes bring some dinner "The goulash was restaurant quality food""). Pickup in … View moreFrom a house clearance. VERY clean, looks like new. Only selling because we already have a slow cooker that I use for goulash as the meat gets VERY tender in it (or as an old neighbourette said whom I sometimes bring some dinner "The goulash was restaurant quality food""). Pickup in Green Bay (we live opposite Green Bay High School).
Had it on Thursday with a blackbird and again yesterday with a pidgeon. Not flying or even just moving away until I'm 30 cm away, then slowly walking off, trying to fly but only managing about 50 cm. My guess is it could be bird flu.
Anyone else spotted anything?
P.S. For further … View moreHad it on Thursday with a blackbird and again yesterday with a pidgeon. Not flying or even just moving away until I'm 30 cm away, then slowly walking off, trying to fly but only managing about 50 cm. My guess is it could be bird flu.
Anyone else spotted anything?
P.S. For further information see www.mpi.govt.nz....
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