1271 days ago

Watch: Navy sailor proposes during emotional reunion following Canada deployment

Caroline Williams Reporter from North Shore Times

Kia ora neighbours. A navy sailor has proposed to his girlfriend – who said yes – in an emotional reunion in Auckland following a lengthy overseas deployment.

HMNZS Te Mana and her crew of 170 docked at the Devonport Naval Base on Friday morning.

The frigate left New Zealand for Canada more than three years ago to receive an extensive systems upgrade.

The first thing petty officer Jacob Biddle​ (Tūhoe) did when he disembarked Te Mana after a year on board was drop down onto one knee to ask his partner of three years, Takimoana Hawea​, to marry him.

The pair kissed and Hawea nodded “yes”, before jumping into Biddle’s arms as his comrades cheered and whistled from the ship.

Watch the video to see the special moment.

More messages from your neighbours
2 days ago

Poll: Do you set New Year’s resolutions?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

🎉 2026 is almost here!

We’re curious ... how do you welcome it?
Do you set resolutions, follow special traditions, or just go with the flow?

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Do you set New Year’s resolutions?
  • 10.4% Yes! New Year, New Me
    10.4% Complete
  • 20.1% Yes - but I rarely stick to them
    20.1% Complete
  • 69.5% Nah - not for me
    69.5% Complete
676 votes
5 hours ago

🎉The Riddler wants to hear from you 🫵

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

🧩 Got a riddle that can stump your Neighbourly community? Share your brain teasers with us and watch your neighbours scratch their heads 😕🤔❓

Send us your tricky puzzles!

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12 hours ago

Help Needed: Peat, Straw, and Moisture Control for Tiger Worms in Castor Bay

Diana from Castor Bay

Hello, neighbors! I’m in Castor Bay and currently caring for my tiger worms. I’ve encountered some moisture issues and am looking for materials like peat, straw, or anything that can help with moisture absorption. I’d also appreciate any advice on preventing clogging in the drainage pipe to ensure proper drainage. If anyone has extra peat, straw, or can share some helpful tips, I’d be really grateful! Thank you so much for your support, especially during the holiday season
Best wishes,
Diana