69 days ago

Christmas creep: The silly season now starts in spring

Libby Reporter from Waikato Local

Opinion columnist Lyall Macfarlane has been shocked to see Christmas decorations start appearing - what do you think?

“Christmas comes but once a year.” But based on recent experience, the festival takes up about a quarter of it.
I saw my first Christmas retail displays last week – 3 of them, in early October.
A couple of days ago, my local mall’s walkways were festooned with trestle tables groaning under the weight of Yuletide novelty goods. You know the thing – archangels, elves, Christmas trees and Father Christmases/Santas in various poses. Some jolly old gents were capable of doing a wee jig while ho, ho, hoing or singing a jolly old festive ditty, far too early.

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More messages from your neighbours
16 hours 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?
  • 9% Yes! New Year, New Me
    9% Complete
  • 21.7% Yes - but I rarely stick to them
    21.7% Complete
  • 69.3% Nah - not for me
    69.3% Complete
290 votes
3 hours ago

Adults Arts Therapy

Arts for Health from Arts for Health Community Trust

Discover the benefits of art making at Arts for Health. Our Wednesday art therapy class offers a creative, relaxing escape. Guided by Scarlett, you'll engage in artful activities designed to help you unwind and reconnect with yourself as you paint, draw, design and experiment with a wide range of art materials. This art therapy class is ideal for adults, no experience is needed - just bring yourself, and we’ll provide all materials and equipment. With a limit of only 8 participants, you'll enjoy a personalised experience and meet some amazing people along the way.

Book now at www.artsforhealth.co.nz...

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5 hours ago

Treasured Book Workshop Series

Arts for Health from Arts for Health Community Trust

Create your own treasure book in this eight-week Hamilton workshop. Choose your cover, pick your papers, and learn simple book-binding techniques to craft a one-of-a-kind keepsake filled with pockets, textures, and space for your stories.

This workshop is all about slowing down, exploring new skills, and enjoying time just for you.
A relaxed, creative space to make something meaningful and uniquely yours.

Book now at www.artsforhealth.co.nz...

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