The Best Backyard Build winner

It was a very hard decision but we've chosen our winner of the Best Backyard Build as Todd Haswell of Raureka. Congratulations, Todd!

His entry reads:
A couple of years ago my wife said "Can you make me a cuppa tea area down the back? Something with a cover over it."
Me being a graphic artist by trade, I went overboard and made this. Most of the timber is offcuts or leftover from years of not throwing anything out. The doors are from the old Napier Hospital. The two side ones open up on top like stable doors. At night lights come on in the windows (solar), which makes it look like a little house. However the back wall is the centre door.

We think his entry is very creative and impressive. Give this post a Like if you agree!

This wraps up our Backyard Awards - we hope you enjoyed taking part and seeing your neighbour's creations.

More messages from your neighbours

7 hours ago

Experienced Pet & House Sitter Available | 28 Jan – 22 Feb 2026

Sabine from Orakei

Hi everyone, due to a cancellation I've had a rare gap in my pet-sitting calendar open up, and would love to fill it with more pet cuddles. I am currently sitting in St Heliers and have lived in this community for many years before starting my house sitting journey, so would love to spend more time here.

A little about me:
- I’ve been a full-time house and pet sitter for 6 years, with all 5-star reviews
- I have fostered over 450 cats and kittens with the Lonely Miaow Association, and grew up on a lifestyle block with large dogs, cats, farm animals and small pets, so I’m confident with animals of all kinds (including those needing medication or extra care). I am also studying after-hours towards a Level 3 degree in Animal Care.
- I work from home 3-4 days a week (and spend the other 1-2 days as marketing manager in SPCA's Hobsonville Centre) so have plenty of time to spend with your precious pets
- As a homeowner myself, I know how important it is to feel your place and pets are in safe hands.
- This is a free sit!

If you’d like to see reviews or photos from past sits, you are welcome to check out my page here: www.facebook.com...

Happy to answer any questions. Please message me to discuss your petsitting needs.

View 7 more…

14 days ago

Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Ministry of Social Development is reporting that fake information is circulating about new ‘December bonuses’ or ‘benefit increases’

If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.