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It's tax return time. Scammers are impersonating Inland Revenue (IR) - and even the Police to steal personal information and money.
They may contact you by email, text, or phone, claiming:
🔹 You're owed a tax refund and must provide your bank details to receive it.
🔹 You owe… View moreIt's tax return time. Scammers are impersonating Inland Revenue (IR) - and even the Police to steal personal information and money.
They may contact you by email, text, or phone, claiming:
🔹 You're owed a tax refund and must provide your bank details to receive it.
🔹 You owe tax and need to pay immediately to avoid legal trouble.
How to stay safe:
✅ Don’t click on links in emails or texts - log in to your myIR account directly.
✅ Check the sender - official IRD emails always end in @ird.govt.nz.
✅ Be cautious with texts - IRD only sends messages from four-digit codes, not
regular phone numbers.
Learn more about protecting yourself from tax scams:
netsafe.org.nz...
A second lot of legal action may be coming over designated historic heritage areas in Hamilton.
State housing agency Kāinga Ora has appealed to the Environment Court to shrink the size of the Claudelands area, saying it would get in the way of its work.
Now the Guardians of Claudelands … View moreA second lot of legal action may be coming over designated historic heritage areas in Hamilton.
State housing agency Kāinga Ora has appealed to the Environment Court to shrink the size of the Claudelands area, saying it would get in the way of its work.
Now the Guardians of Claudelands community group is looking at legal action in response.
Do you think a historic heritage area in Claudelands should shrink?
Waikato councils are keen to look at tolls on major roads, supercharge house building and create a special zone for “bioenergy innovation”.
The eye-catching initiatives were laid out in Waikato’s city and regional deal application to central government, and recently considered by Hauraki … View moreWaikato councils are keen to look at tolls on major roads, supercharge house building and create a special zone for “bioenergy innovation”.
The eye-catching initiatives were laid out in Waikato’s city and regional deal application to central government, and recently considered by Hauraki District councillors.
Do you think this will help boost the region's economy? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).
This is not a drill. Nicola Willis is on a mission. The finance minister and still relatively new “economic growth” minister has lobbed a huge bomb into the groceries sector: the threat of de-mergers.
In ordinary parlance, Woolies and Foodstuffs might be compelled to sell of some of their … View moreThis is not a drill. Nicola Willis is on a mission. The finance minister and still relatively new “economic growth” minister has lobbed a huge bomb into the groceries sector: the threat of de-mergers.
In ordinary parlance, Woolies and Foodstuffs might be compelled to sell of some of their supermarket brands or split up their wholesale and retail operations.
Do you think we need another major player in the supermarket sector? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).
Call-out rates for Hamilton’s three fire stations have leapt with city fire bosses now looking at adding a fourth station to keep up with the city’s “fast-growing” population and industrial growth.
Firefighters have been receiving an average of eight call-outs a day, up from six four … View moreCall-out rates for Hamilton’s three fire stations have leapt with city fire bosses now looking at adding a fourth station to keep up with the city’s “fast-growing” population and industrial growth.
Firefighters have been receiving an average of eight call-outs a day, up from six four years ago - a rise that was discussed with city councillors during a briefing from Fire and Emergency NZ’s Hamilton assistant commander Matt Leonard and senior adviser risk reduction George Jensen.
After seeing 25 dogs, including puppies, put down in a day, Hamilton’s Animal Control boss went into her office and cried.
It was also the day Susan Stanford also decided “enough is enough”. With the centre bursting at the seams and adoption numbers down, Stanford has had enough of … View moreAfter seeing 25 dogs, including puppies, put down in a day, Hamilton’s Animal Control boss went into her office and cried.
It was also the day Susan Stanford also decided “enough is enough”. With the centre bursting at the seams and adoption numbers down, Stanford has had enough of irresponsible dog owners who don’t desex or contain their pets.
Retirement is a transformative stage of life, offering the freedom to embark on new adventures, explore fresh interests, and find fulfilment in ways that may have been put on hold during the busy years of work and family life. It’s a time to focus on what truly brings you joy.
With its … View moreRetirement is a transformative stage of life, offering the freedom to embark on new adventures, explore fresh interests, and find fulfilment in ways that may have been put on hold during the busy years of work and family life. It’s a time to focus on what truly brings you joy.
With its beautiful landscapes, outdoor lifestyle, and relaxed culture, New Zealand is the perfect place to make the most of your retirement. And at Ryman Healthcare, you can enjoy top-quality independent living options and exceptional care within a vibrant, supportive community of like-minded people.
Click read more for the full story.
Nicola Willis will this weekend announce decisions taken by Cabinet to incentivise and encourage a third supermarket player alongside FoodStuffs and Progressive (Woolworths).
Do you think having a third supermarket chain will bring competition and lower grocery prices, or will the existing … View moreNicola Willis will this weekend announce decisions taken by Cabinet to incentivise and encourage a third supermarket player alongside FoodStuffs and Progressive (Woolworths).
Do you think having a third supermarket chain will bring competition and lower grocery prices, or will the existing giants still dominate?
First home buyers in the Waikato are stepping up their game - and in some cases, outbidding investors - as competition ramps up across the region’s property market.
Multiple-offer situations are becoming more common, and agents report that some first-time buyers are walking away with deals … View moreFirst home buyers in the Waikato are stepping up their game - and in some cases, outbidding investors - as competition ramps up across the region’s property market.
Multiple-offer situations are becoming more common, and agents report that some first-time buyers are walking away with deals ahead of investors.
Do you know any first home buyers house hunting at the moment? Tell us how they're finding it in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).
Upgrade to LED lighting today and start saving! LEDs use up to 90% less energy than traditional bulbs, dramatically cutting your power bills while lasting 25 times longer. They produce brighter, cleaner light without excess heat, making your home safer and more comfortable. Available in warm or … View moreUpgrade to LED lighting today and start saving! LEDs use up to 90% less energy than traditional bulbs, dramatically cutting your power bills while lasting 25 times longer. They produce brighter, cleaner light without excess heat, making your home safer and more comfortable. Available in warm or cool tones with dimmable options, LEDs provide perfect lighting for every space.
Make the eco-friendly choice – LEDs contain no mercury and reduce your carbon footprint. For expert installation and a free, no-obligation quote, call Tui Electrical now on 0800 TUI NOW or visit our website to fill out a quick contact form. Illuminate your home efficiently – switch to LEDs today!
As New Zealand continues to grapple with a cost of living crisis, Waikato homeowners are being urged to consider an often-overlooked solution to reduce household expenses: professional window tinting. Acorn Glass Tint, a trusted local business with over 40 years of experience, says window films not… View moreAs New Zealand continues to grapple with a cost of living crisis, Waikato homeowners are being urged to consider an often-overlooked solution to reduce household expenses: professional window tinting. Acorn Glass Tint, a trusted local business with over 40 years of experience, says window films not only protect your health and home but also deliver significant savings on energy bills.
“Energy prices are through the roof, and families across Hamilton and the Waikato are feeling the pinch,” says Jeremy Graham, Director of Acorn Glass Tint. “What many people don’t realise is that window tinting can cut energy consumption by up to 30%, which translates into savings of up to 50% on cooling costs during our increasingly hot summers. It’s a simple, effective way to make your home more affordable to run.”
The financial benefits of window tinting go hand in hand with its health advantages. “Untreated windows let in heat, glare, and harmful UV rays that not only drive up cooling costs but also damage your skin, eyes, and even your furniture,” explains Graham.
“Our films block 99% of UV rays and reduce interior temperatures by up to 60%. That means you’re spending less on air conditioning while protecting your family’s health and preserving your home’s interiors.”
For businesses in the Waikato region, the benefits are equally compelling. “We’ve worked with local offices where staff were struggling with glare and heat near windows,” says Graham. “By installing window films, businesses not only create a more comfortable and productive environment for their teams but also cut down on energy use – saving money at a time when every dollar counts.”
Beyond energy savings, window tinting offers long-term financial protection for homeowners by preserving valuable interiors. “Sunlight doesn’t just fade your furniture; it destroys it,” Graham adds.
“We’ve seen countless cases where expensive flooring, curtains, or artwork have been ruined by UV exposure. By investing in window tinting now, you’re protecting those assets for years to come – saving money on costly replacements.”
Acorn Glass Tint’s tailored solutions are designed specifically for the unique climate challenges faced by Hamilton and broader Waikato residents. Graham says that now is the time to act: “With rising energy costs and hotter summers ahead, the straight forward act of window tinting is one of the smartest investments you can make for your home or business.
It’s about creating a space that’s healthier, more comfortable, and easier on your wallet,” Graham said.
Contact Acorn Glass Tint
Tel: 027 848 8468
Email: info@acornglasstint.co.nz
A part-time café worker who turned up for work to find the business closed has won $4450 in unpaid wages and leave entitlements.
Sharon Shen did regular shifts at a café operated by Supreme Huang Limited from October 2021 until July 2024, a determination by the Employment Relations Authority … View moreA part-time café worker who turned up for work to find the business closed has won $4450 in unpaid wages and leave entitlements.
Sharon Shen did regular shifts at a café operated by Supreme Huang Limited from October 2021 until July 2024, a determination by the Employment Relations Authority says.
Forget the flash motorbikes and bling - a digital image of a chimp like creature with a techni-colour runny nose is among the booty crims were hoarding their cash in before police confiscated it in a New Zealand first.
The strange image was seized in Waikato and was part of item 590 on the … View moreForget the flash motorbikes and bling - a digital image of a chimp like creature with a techni-colour runny nose is among the booty crims were hoarding their cash in before police confiscated it in a New Zealand first.
The strange image was seized in Waikato and was part of item 590 on the 1171-strong list of criminal assets seized by police in the last two years - non-fungible tokens, or NFTs valued at $275, 461.
Anti-social behaviour by streeties in Hamilton’s CBD is further eroding business confidence, says the chairperson of the city council’s economic development committee.
Councillor Ewan Wilson’s comments come in his report for this Thursday’s meeting.
Do you avoid Hamilton's CBD? … View moreAnti-social behaviour by streeties in Hamilton’s CBD is further eroding business confidence, says the chairperson of the city council’s economic development committee.
Councillor Ewan Wilson’s comments come in his report for this Thursday’s meeting.
Do you avoid Hamilton's CBD? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).
Something to watch out for - I've had five people with this problem in the last five days.
If you are online, especially on Facebook, and your screen gets taken over with information apparently from the Microsoft Windows Security Centre, saying your computer is infected and that you should … View moreSomething to watch out for - I've had five people with this problem in the last five days.
If you are online, especially on Facebook, and your screen gets taken over with information apparently from the Microsoft Windows Security Centre, saying your computer is infected and that you should call an 0800 number (see the attached picture) - DO NOT RING THAT NUMBER.
Your computer is not infected, the image on the screen is just a 'Notification' and does not pose a threat - the problems start if you ring the number and do what the people on the other end tell you to do.
To get rid of the 'Notification', close the web browser, if you can't do that, restart your computer, if you can't access the Start button on your screen, tap the Windows button on your keyboard, if all else fails, press and hold the power button for 10 seconds - this will fully shut off your computer - wait a few seconds and start your computer again and the scam screen should be gone. Consider turning off/blocking all browser notifications.
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