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The Government says it's scrapping those annoying card surcharges – and it’s happening next year.
Consumer NZ is stoked, saying these sneaky surcharges cost Kiwis around $65 million a year and should’ve been gone ages ago.
But not everyone’s convinced it’s a win. Labour and … View moreThe Government says it's scrapping those annoying card surcharges – and it’s happening next year.
Consumer NZ is stoked, saying these sneaky surcharges cost Kiwis around $65 million a year and should’ve been gone ages ago.
But not everyone’s convinced it’s a win. Labour and Hospitality NZ are worried the costs won’t just disappear. Labour MP Arena Williams put it simply: there should not be surcharges for customers at all. But she points out that the Government’s plan does not deal with banks and merchants “who still scoop a big fee”.
Many of our community are rocked by the recent announcement. Retailers warn card surcharge ban could lead to higher prices - the unfortunatel reality is that small businesses are feeling the squeeze along with their customers. In comparison, large retailers pay significantly lower banking fees and ultimately have more leverage at the negotiation table.
💸 So someone still pays – but who?
We want to know: Who should be covering this cost?
Share your thoughts in the comments!
Canterbury Police has been consulting internally with staff on a proposal to redesign its structure, says Canterbury District Commander Superintendent Tony Hill.
"Our goal is to deliver a better service to our communities by boosting core policing services and strengthening our ability to … View moreCanterbury Police has been consulting internally with staff on a proposal to redesign its structure, says Canterbury District Commander Superintendent Tony Hill.
"Our goal is to deliver a better service to our communities by boosting core policing services and strengthening our ability to meet demand, now and in the future.
We are focused on the safety of our communities and our Police team. As the proposal concerns changes that directly impact our staff, we have an obligation to consult with them first. We also acknowledge the importance of listening to our communities.
In a departure from our normal process in relation to operational decision-making, we are now sharing an external version of the proposal and inviting feedback from the public.
We haven’t reviewed our structure since 2017 and we want to get it right. We're not content to keep doing things the way we always have when we believe we can do better.
I stress that this is a proposal and no decisions have been made. I will be paying close attention to the feedback as it comes in."
If you would like to provide feedback on the proposed changes, please email canterbury.review@police.govt.nz
Feedback will be accepted up until 5pm, Monday 18 August.
The redesign proposal is available here.
Thanks to a generous gift, 730 Hectares in Kaituna Valley are now protected for everyone to enjoy
Four incredible donors have come together to gift 730 hectares of land in the Kaituna Valley to the nation — a multimillion-dollar contribution that will benefit generations to come.
This land,… View moreThanks to a generous gift, 730 Hectares in Kaituna Valley are now protected for everyone to enjoy
Four incredible donors have come together to gift 730 hectares of land in the Kaituna Valley to the nation — a multimillion-dollar contribution that will benefit generations to come.
This land, which has now been protected and opened to the public, forms part of a much larger conservation area — nearly 2,400 hectares stretching from sea level at Whakaraupō/Lyttelton Harbour, up to the Summit Walkway, and back down into the Kaituna Valley.
Once used for farming, the land has now been cleared of livestock, and pest control efforts are underway to help native plants and wildlife thrive. The goal? A richer, more diverse ecosystem that everyone can experience and be proud of.
This is a powerful example of how the actions of a few can have a huge impact. Thanks to their vision and generosity, a precious piece of our natural heritage is now protected.
Read more about the Massive win for conservation and recreation in the Kaituna.
We hope this news brings a smile!
“I was born in Afghanistan, I moved to Pakistan when I was a one year old as a refugee with my family.
I grew up in Pakistan and finished my school there. I learned English, I did computer classes, learned sewing and also I did makeup classes. I moved back to Afghanistan to continue my … View more“I was born in Afghanistan, I moved to Pakistan when I was a one year old as a refugee with my family.
I grew up in Pakistan and finished my school there. I learned English, I did computer classes, learned sewing and also I did makeup classes. I moved back to Afghanistan to continue my studies, I did my bachelor in business and I got married.
Because of the situation, we couldn't stay there anymore, so we moved to Indonesia. The first year was very difficult for me. As refugees in Indonesia, you're not allowed to work, no study, nothing. Most of the people don't understand English, so you have to learn their language.
I was trying to find a way that I could learn the language easily. I started watching dramas on YouTube. So then I learned Bahasa from that and a friend, and she learned English from me. Then I was speaking five languages. After a while, I was working as an interpreter and for a short time, I found a job at an international school as a teacher.
We were on the shortlist to go to America. You know, sometimes God wants to put you somewhere. We got a call from the sponsor group that wanted to help us come to New Zealand. How is it possible? We waited there for six years through UNHCR. I can say we were lucky. I have been here for one year, and with the sponsor group, we are like a family now.
I first went to Share Kai for the Ōtautahi Welcome Dinner. I said, ‘this is my place’. when I am among the people and talking with people it gives me energy. When we went there, we met different people. Now I have lots of friends from different countries.
When we heard that there's an opportunity for the Riccarton Sunday Market, I said, I will do it!
My food stall is called ZJ kitchen. Z is for my husband, and J is for Jamila, for me. The story for the ZJ is that we are a ZJ family. When we got married, we decided that when we have kids, we'll put the name starting with Z or J. So now I have two sons, their names start with Z, and I have one daughter who starts with J.
I believe that food is something that everyone needs every day. What I do means a lot to me. When I'm at the market, if someone eats the food they ask, do you have a restaurant? I tell them about Share Kai.
I am one of the leaders at the Cooks Collective, we run the Share Kai Cafe which is open for lunch on the first Friday of every month at WEA. We talk, we laugh and we enjoy the food. I hope one day everyone knows about Share Kai.”
- Jamila
Whether it's pre-schoolers or seniors, Scottish dancing or salsa, kapa haka or Kathak, breakdance or ballet - if you're encouraging people of all ages and abilities to keep moving through dance, we have three $5000 Love to Dance grants up for grabs.
Click read more to nominate your … View moreWhether it's pre-schoolers or seniors, Scottish dancing or salsa, kapa haka or Kathak, breakdance or ballet - if you're encouraging people of all ages and abilities to keep moving through dance, we have three $5000 Love to Dance grants up for grabs.
Click read more to nominate your community dance group.
Applications close 31 August 2025.
Spring is just around the corner, and there’s no better time to get stuck into the garden.
Right now, when you subscribe to NZ Gardener for 1 or 2 years, you’ll receive a FREE Solo Hose End Sprayer, the perfect companion for spring prep.
The Solo 405-HE is a serious time-saver — just … View moreSpring is just around the corner, and there’s no better time to get stuck into the garden.
Right now, when you subscribe to NZ Gardener for 1 or 2 years, you’ll receive a FREE Solo Hose End Sprayer, the perfect companion for spring prep.
The Solo 405-HE is a serious time-saver — just connect, spray, and you’re done. No pumping, no premixing, no mess. It works with cost-saving concentrates like fertilisers, insecticides, herbicides and more, and covers large or small areas quickly with a smooth, sweeping spray. It fits most chemical bottles (with three thread options) or you can use the included canister.
Whether you’re nurturing veggies, taming weeds or boosting blooms, this sprayer makes the job quick, clean and easy.
Treat yourself to expert advice, seasonal inspiration – and a garden tool you’ll use all year long.
*T&Cs apply. Offer available to the first 300 people who subscribe for 1 or 2 years between August 4 – August 31, 2025.
Kia ora neighbours. We're on the lookout for broccoli recipes! We will give away free copies of the October 2025 issue to readers whose broccoli recipes are used in our magazine. To be in the running, make sure you email your family's favourite broccoli recipe to us, at: … View moreKia ora neighbours. We're on the lookout for broccoli recipes! We will give away free copies of the October 2025 issue to readers whose broccoli recipes are used in our magazine. To be in the running, make sure you email your family's favourite broccoli recipe to us, at: mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, by August 15, 2025.
JAXX acquired this large-scale retail complex in Central Ashburton with a vision to give it a significant facelift. After modernising the former Briscoes building, we’re excited to offer this commercial property for lease. With flexible tenancies ranging between 100-1000m², this prime location … View moreJAXX acquired this large-scale retail complex in Central Ashburton with a vision to give it a significant facelift. After modernising the former Briscoes building, we’re excited to offer this commercial property for lease. With flexible tenancies ranging between 100-1000m², this prime location offers 130 customer car parks and benefits from established tenants like City Fitness and Number One Shoes. We’re actively seeking retail or office tenants to join this vibrant hub – contact us today. Visit jaxx.co.nz
JAXX has a passion for property and an eye for opportunity. We transform overlooked properties into exceptional commercial spaces that drive success for our tenants.
We are bringing you the latest list of recalled products from across the country. Make sure you aren't using these at home!
Click on the blue text to learn more about that particular product and why it was recalled.
Food and household item recalls:
Woolworths brand 18% Fat Beef Mince
… View moreWe are bringing you the latest list of recalled products from across the country. Make sure you aren't using these at home!
Click on the blue text to learn more about that particular product and why it was recalled.
Food and household item recalls:
Woolworths brand 18% Fat Beef Mince
Hydr8 brand Spring Water 600ml x 24
Snack Switch brand Plant Protein Bars
Ecostore Ultra Sensitive Multi Purpose Cleaner 500ml
Various sunscreens sold online at Harvey Norman
Product Recalls: Infant care and clothing
Annabel Trends - Banana Teether
Villeroy & Boch Children’s Tumblers- sold at Ballantynes Christchurch
Jupiter 2-in-1 Baby High Chair & Swing. Recall updated July 2025. Originally published January 2025.
Portable Soothing Baby Rocker Bouncer Chair with Toy Bar. Recall updated July 2025. Originally published January 2025.
Product Recalls: Clothing
Ocean & Earth Youth & kids Ponchos (Various)
IG Embroidered Sherpa Bomber Jacket- sold at Postie
Product Recalls: Electronics
OMNI Desktop power module with USB-A and USB-C
Yamaha PA300C Power Adaptor for Digital Piano Products
Gadali Gas Deep Fat Fryer OT-72A 12KW
Product Recalls: Other
Kelsey Mug- sold at nood
DT SWISS ARC, ERC, CRC & HEC Wheel
DT SWISS ERC/CRC/HEC Wheel
Momentum Vida E+ Low-Step E-Bicycle- sold at Giant and Momentum dealers
Honda Outboard BF115, 135, 150 and 350
See past months recalls here. Stay safe, neighbours!
Does your home have a bright pink front door? Know a secret rainbow-coloured park bench? Is there art in your office that makes you smile every time you walk past it? If it's bright - we need to see it!
Bright Spots is back for a third year - a celebration of the crazy colourful places in … View moreDoes your home have a bright pink front door? Know a secret rainbow-coloured park bench? Is there art in your office that makes you smile every time you walk past it? If it's bright - we need to see it!
Bright Spots is back for a third year - a celebration of the crazy colourful places in our communities and homes. Share a pic today and you could win one of ten prize packages worth $500!
Need inspo? Check out the entries so far.
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.
Have you seen James Gunn's 'Superman' yet?
The new movie stars Krypto, Superman's capable and floofy sidekick. Following the movie release, online searches for dog adoption surged globally! Krypto is based on Gunn's own rescue dog, Ozu. The Neighbourly team is sure that … View moreHave you seen James Gunn's 'Superman' yet?
The new movie stars Krypto, Superman's capable and floofy sidekick. Following the movie release, online searches for dog adoption surged globally! Krypto is based on Gunn's own rescue dog, Ozu. The Neighbourly team is sure that Gunn is pleased that his own rescue pup may lead to more fluffy adoptions!
Looking to match with your own super pet? The SPCA is spotlighting animals waiting for their new and committed families.
We hope this news brings a smile!
Max plaid shacket size 16/18
Very warm, lined, wool-blend shacket, with dome fastening and two patch pockets.
Brand is 'Max"
Labelled ‘L’ fits size 16 /18– bust 130cm, centre back length 75cm
… View moreMax plaid shacket size 16/18
Very warm, lined, wool-blend shacket, with dome fastening and two patch pockets.
Brand is 'Max"
Labelled ‘L’ fits size 16 /18– bust 130cm, centre back length 75cm
Condition is excellent, as new – bought new online, but too large.
Pick up if wanted is from Cashmere area in Christchurch
Life gets busy—really busy. Between work, family, appointments, and a never-ending to-do list, it’s easy for things to pile up. Add fast fashion, online sales, and homewares aisles that whisper “just one more basket won’t hurt”, and suddenly we’re swimming in stuff and tat.
… View moreLife gets busy—really busy. Between work, family, appointments, and a never-ending to-do list, it’s easy for things to pile up. Add fast fashion, online sales, and homewares aisles that whisper “just one more basket won’t hurt”, and suddenly we’re swimming in stuff and tat.
Sometimes, that stuff is cozy and familiar. But other times, after a long day, you walk through the door, look around, and think: “Okay. Something’s got to go.”
And when that urge to declutter hits, the question is—where does it all go? We're not talking about broken bits and pieces, but those perfectly good things that simply no longer fit your life or your space.
In her piece When decluttering can’t be avoided much longer, Joanna Davis shares the everyday items she's finally ready to part with—and it might just inspire your own clear-out mission.
We want to know:
🧹 How often do you get the urge to declutter?
🎯 Are there certain things you’ve got your eye on to donate or rehome?
💛 Do you have any favourite charities, op-shops, or community organisations you support with your preloved items?
Let’s swap stories, share ideas, and help great stuff find a second life—outside our closets and shelves.
It might not be making quite so many headlines these days, but unfortunately, Covid is still here. If you’re 65 or over, taking care of yourself is just as important as ever.
The good news is, the Covid vaccine can help protect you from serious illness. It’s free, and recommended for you … View moreIt might not be making quite so many headlines these days, but unfortunately, Covid is still here. If you’re 65 or over, taking care of yourself is just as important as ever.
The good news is, the Covid vaccine can help protect you from serious illness. It’s free, and recommended for you and many others as long as you haven’t had the vaccine, or Covid, in the last 6 months.
To book your vaccination, or talk to your healthcare provider.
© Neighbourly 2025
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