Matthew Salmons, our man in Sewlyn
Matthew Salmons is standing in for Helena O'Neill who is off to feather her nest with a new baby. You can contact Matt through email: matthew.salmons@fairfaxmedia.co.nz or on 027 204 9742.
Here's a little bit about our newest reporter:
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in North Canterbury, in Waikuku Beach. I've moved around a bit since then, living in Argentina, Christchurch, outback Australia and now back in central Christchurch. It's nice to be home again. My wife and I moved back to New Zealand from Australia at the start of last year.
How long have you been working in newspapers?
Before getting into journalism I was working in the mines. I was a blast furnace operator in a lead mine, so it's a bit of a change. I landed my first job writing for the Northern Outlook last year while I was still studying at Ara so I'm still pretty new. I'm looking forward to discovering the stories and people of a new area now.
What do you do outside of work?
For the most part I'm a bit of a geek, video games, board games and such, but I took up dragon boating last year after doing a story on a crew in Waimakariri. That's become a bit of a passion and I'm training with a New Zealand men's team heading to China later this year to compete in the Worlds, which is really exciting.
Poll: Do you set New Year’s resolutions?
🎉 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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10.3% Yes! New Year, New Me
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20.1% Yes - but I rarely stick to them
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69.6% Nah - not for me
🎉The Riddler wants to hear from you 🫵
🧩 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!
Morning Aches Are Optional - Let’s Start the Year Sleeping Better
Hey neighbours,
Waking up with sore shoulders and stiff mornings? Here’s the plot twist - it might actually be your mattress (and pillow) letting you down.
It’s the perfect time to upgrade. New Year, New Bed! Our Boxing Day Sale is still on, so why not treat yourself to a mattress that actually supports you and helps you wake up refreshed? Side sleeper? Back sleeper? Tossing and turning? We’ve got tips and solutions for every kind of snoozer.
Don’t settle for mornings that hurt, your bed should work with you, not against you. Curious about how your mattress could be affecting your shoulders? Check out our blog: beds4u.co.nz...
Find your nearest Beds4U store here: beds4u.co.nz/store-locator
Browse all Boxing Day deals: beds4u.co.nz/boxing-day
Here’s to starting 2026 waking up refreshed, because mornings should feel amazing!
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