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"I was hit by a bus 22 years ago."
"I need to have a rest, that's very important to me, just for half an hour, just shut my eyes and no, no, no distractions, and then I can keep going on the rest of the day.
I had three days in Wellington. It was at six o'clock in the… View more"I was hit by a bus 22 years ago."
"I need to have a rest, that's very important to me, just for half an hour, just shut my eyes and no, no, no distractions, and then I can keep going on the rest of the day.
I had three days in Wellington. It was at six o'clock in the evening, going with a run with friends. I was on the island; in the middle, parliaments’ over there and I think the bus went through an orange light. It was an old bus, so the mirror was way out, and it clipped me I think; I mean, I don't know, but this, is what I’ve been told. I was in a coma for seven weeks. About a week after the accident, I started twisting my finger so that must’ve meant that I was not completely dead!
The hardest thing was I couldn't talk. I couldn't say a word. I could understand, but how do you communicate? So yeah, so that was just very frustrating. I couldn't do the alphabet. I could do A, B, C, D, what's after D? It took me about three years to speak the alphabet.
I did two degrees, one with honours; computer science and accounting. I had a big company, and I designed software for other companies. I had 200 people working for me. Now I’m completely dyslexic.
I’ve been banned from one supermarket. The manager came, you're not allowed to be here. Why not? Because you're so rude to the checkout two days ago. I said you've treated me badly and so and so... and the police came.
Before my accident, I could speak very fluently. So it's not going right, I get louder and I get frustrated. I don't get frustrated at them, I get frustrated at myself. But they don’t understand.
What can you do? You have to live life so it can be very frustrating. What choice do you have?
I did the Coast to Coast 15 years ago, with a friend. The half marathon in Christchurch. I've done that about six times, seven times. The best thing you can do for your brain is endorphin. So if you want to, if you want to keep things improving, they need some endorphins."
- Andrew
The regional finalists are in - and we have an incredible bunch of businesses vying for the title of this year's Local Business Hero. But we need your help to decide the winner! It'll only take a moment to vote - but it could change a small business's future.
Your vote puts them … View moreThe regional finalists are in - and we have an incredible bunch of businesses vying for the title of this year's Local Business Hero. But we need your help to decide the winner! It'll only take a moment to vote - but it could change a small business's future.
Your vote puts them in the running to win a prize package worth over $30,000. Be a good neighbour and make your vote today.
For the 11th time, you’ve voted us your Most Trusted Brand and that means the world to us.
Because trust this strong doesn’t happen by chance. One year? That’s nice. Ten years? That’s a perfect score. But eleven? That’s off the charts.
You feel it in the little things, like the … View moreFor the 11th time, you’ve voted us your Most Trusted Brand and that means the world to us.
Because trust this strong doesn’t happen by chance. One year? That’s nice. Ten years? That’s a perfect score. But eleven? That’s off the charts.
You feel it in the little things, like the barista who knows your coffee order, the gardener who prunes your roses just right, and friends who feel like family.
That’s trust built over time, through shared experiences, thoughtful gestures and communities who care. It’s that feeling of trust that sets us apart.
Whether it’s your first visit or you call a village home, that feeling of trust is what sets us apart.
Kerry, a resident at Bert Sutcliffe Village is a lifelong curator of beautiful spaces which reflect a life rich in décor, experiences, and sunshine.
With over 30 years of experience in lecturing and interior design, she opened her vibrant apartment to us and shared some of her tips.
Click … View moreKerry, a resident at Bert Sutcliffe Village is a lifelong curator of beautiful spaces which reflect a life rich in décor, experiences, and sunshine.
With over 30 years of experience in lecturing and interior design, she opened her vibrant apartment to us and shared some of her tips.
Click read more to explore Kerry’s favourite styling tips and see how she’s brought colour, creativity, and joy into her apartment.
Kia ora Southern neighbours! We will give away free copies to readers whose recipes are used in our magazine, and we're on the hunt for all things turnip! Send your family's favourite way to use up this crop, especially if you're lucky enough to be able to grow it in your region. … View moreKia ora Southern neighbours! We will give away free copies to readers whose recipes are used in our magazine, and we're on the hunt for all things turnip! Send your family's favourite way to use up this crop, especially if you're lucky enough to be able to grow it in your region. Email us: mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, by May 31, 2025. If we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of the July issue.
Ryman resident, Judy Harvey likes nothing better than to read a good book, take up a spot of crochet or tend to her pot plants.
But there is another more adventurous side to grandmother-of-six Judy, who admits she is something of an adrenalin junkie with a secret ambition to complete every … View moreRyman resident, Judy Harvey likes nothing better than to read a good book, take up a spot of crochet or tend to her pot plants.
But there is another more adventurous side to grandmother-of-six Judy, who admits she is something of an adrenalin junkie with a secret ambition to complete every bungee jump in New Zealand!
In March, Judy and her husband Howard were on a trip to Queenstown when Judy decided she wanted to do the 43m bungee jump from Kawerau Bridge.
Click read more for the full story.
Arbor Green is a carefully masterplanned new neighbourhood, designed for you to enjoy the little things that matter most. Simple pleasures, daily leisures, moments treasured and milestones measured. Whether you crave room to roam, a safe place to bring up the kids, a stunning new home with all … View moreArbor Green is a carefully masterplanned new neighbourhood, designed for you to enjoy the little things that matter most. Simple pleasures, daily leisures, moments treasured and milestones measured. Whether you crave room to roam, a safe place to bring up the kids, a stunning new home with all the mod-cons, neighbours who become friends, it’s all here.
Next-generation homes, green spaces, safe streets, shops, schooling and amenities intertwine to create a living neighbourhood where bonds are formed and memories are made. Visit our website to find your place at arborgreen.nz
Planning your funeral ahead of time means you can relax, knowing your family and friends will know what you would like. It’s complimentary, at your place or ours.
Have a chat with Carol today.
FRIDAY 16 & SATURDAY 17 MAY, 10AM - 2PM
Come and experience the warmth of our Ryman village communities, we’d love to show you around. Discover our lifestyle and care options, tour our show homes and explore our premium amenities.
Plus, sign up to an independent apartment or townhouse … View moreFRIDAY 16 & SATURDAY 17 MAY, 10AM - 2PM
Come and experience the warmth of our Ryman village communities, we’d love to show you around. Discover our lifestyle and care options, tour our show homes and explore our premium amenities.
Plus, sign up to an independent apartment or townhouse before 30 June 2025 and you won’t pay your base weekly fee for a whole year.*
*Participating villages only, Ts & Cs apply.
Looking for a thoughtful gift for Mum? Give her something she'll enjoy all year round with a magazine subscription!
This Mother's Day, save up to 35% on subscriptions – perfect for Mum, Grandma, a special mother figure, or even as a treat for yourself!
Enjoy these 1-year … View moreLooking for a thoughtful gift for Mum? Give her something she'll enjoy all year round with a magazine subscription!
This Mother's Day, save up to 35% on subscriptions – perfect for Mum, Grandma, a special mother figure, or even as a treat for yourself!
Enjoy these 1-year subscriptions at unbeatable prices: NZ Gardener for $79 (was $106.80), NZ House & Garden for $99 (was $132), and TV Guide for $119 (was $166.40).
Whether she’s passionate about gardening, inspired by beautiful homes, or loves to keep up with the latest entertainment, you’ll find the perfect match at Mags4Gifts.co.nz.
Don't miss out – shop now and make her day unforgettable!
From the team at Mags4Gifts
An impromptu visit by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to Ryman’s Jane Winstone Village in Whanganui on Wednesday resulted in the largest turnout from residents that the village had seen in a very long time.
Residents who packed out the lounge and waited patiently for a chance to meet the PM … View moreAn impromptu visit by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to Ryman’s Jane Winstone Village in Whanganui on Wednesday resulted in the largest turnout from residents that the village had seen in a very long time.
Residents who packed out the lounge and waited patiently for a chance to meet the PM said they were ‘very impressed’ at Luxon’s determination to get around everyone who had turned out to see him – even as his team started to worry he would be late for his next engagement!
Click read more for the full story.
A local state of emergency is still in place for Christchurch, Banks Peninsula and the flood-hit Selwyn district. While rain has been easing there's concern over surface flooding in Selwyn District and closed roads in Banks Peninsula. Christchurch had one of its wettest days on record … View moreA local state of emergency is still in place for Christchurch, Banks Peninsula and the flood-hit Selwyn district. While rain has been easing there's concern over surface flooding in Selwyn District and closed roads in Banks Peninsula. Christchurch had one of its wettest days on record yesterday.
Here's what you need to know this morning:
Civil Defence Emergency Management Canterbury say:
- The weather has eased overnight but we have had record amounts of rain in some areas. Daylight is going to give a clearer idea of the impact of the last 48 hours, and we will update you with key information as the day unfolds.
- A reminder to please stay safe, look after one another and check in on your neighbours.
Please note:
- Selwyn, Christchurch and Banks Peninsula remain under a state of emergency.
- There is significant impact to the roading network, a number of roads remain closed across the region including State Highway 75 to Banks Peninsula.
- Banks Peninsula is currently isolated. A helicopter flyover of is scheduled for this morning, to assess the damage.
- Contractors will be out at first light in other areas affected across the region to check on conditions and we will keep you updated.
What you need to do:
- Please respect cordons and road closures and avoid driving through flood waters. It can be deeper than it looks, contain debris and the condition of the road can be affected.
- Follow the guidance of the teams out in the field, who will keep you updated with the latest throughout the day.
- Be vigilant, this level of ground saturation can cause trees to fall and landslides after the rain has stopped.
For the latest keep up to date with your local council.
Here are the latest road closures for Selwyn:
Malvern Hills Road
Auchenflower Road
Washpen Road
Pig Saddle Road
Coes Ford
Goulds Road
Springs Road
Malvern Hills Road
Pannets Road
The Lake Road
Rhodes Road
Old Tai Tapu Road
Leeston Road is now partially open one way
Christchurch Northern Central roads closed are:
- Avonside Drive from Retreat Road to Woodham Road
- Avonside Drive from Wainoni Road to Kerrs Road
- New Brighton Road from Rawson Street to Pages Road
- Fitzgerald Ave from Kilmore Street to Cambridge Terrace
- Empire Road from Main North Road
- River Road
- Cambridge Terrace from Barbados Street to Churchill Street
- Avondale Road from New Brighton Road to Mervyn Drive
Police remind motorists who can travel, to:
- Watch your following distance - it takes longer to stop in the rain.
- Headlights on - make yourself visible to other drivers.
- Be patient as road detours/closures may be in place.
Keep up to date with all weather updates across the country on the Stuff website.
MetService warnings can be found here: www.metservice.com...
11.15am update:
Roads in Christchurch's central and northern areas are mostly reopened.
Closures only remain for:
👉 Avonside Drive from Wainoni Road to Kerrs Road
👉 Empire Road from Main North Road
There have been hundreds of brilliant entries from around New Zealand for local businesses; but have we received yours yet?
Make sure you share a few words about your favourite local to give them a chance to be this year's Prospa Local Business Hero because it's the LAST WEEK TO … View moreThere have been hundreds of brilliant entries from around New Zealand for local businesses; but have we received yours yet?
Make sure you share a few words about your favourite local to give them a chance to be this year's Prospa Local Business Hero because it's the LAST WEEK TO NOMINATE! It'll only take you a couple of minutes and they could win a prize package worth over $30,000! And you could win great prizes too.
Nominate a business making an impact in your community now.
The Breast Cancer Foundation NZ Pink Campervan will be in Ashburton on 6 and 7 May. Specialist breast health nurses will be on hand to answer any questions about mammograms, changes to your breasts, or general breast health. There’s no charge, and no appointment needed. Just pop in, have a chat,… View moreThe Breast Cancer Foundation NZ Pink Campervan will be in Ashburton on 6 and 7 May. Specialist breast health nurses will be on hand to answer any questions about mammograms, changes to your breasts, or general breast health. There’s no charge, and no appointment needed. Just pop in, have a chat, and take a moment to focus on you.
Looking for a thoughtful gift for Mum? Give her something she'll enjoy all year round with a magazine subscription!
This Mother's Day, save up to 35% on subscriptions – perfect for Mum, Grandma, a special mother figure, or even as a treat for yourself!
Enjoy these 1-year … View moreLooking for a thoughtful gift for Mum? Give her something she'll enjoy all year round with a magazine subscription!
This Mother's Day, save up to 35% on subscriptions – perfect for Mum, Grandma, a special mother figure, or even as a treat for yourself!
Enjoy these 1-year subscriptions at unbeatable prices: NZ Gardener for $79 (was $106.80), NZ House & Garden for $99 (was $132), and TV Guide for $119 (was $166.40).
Whether she’s passionate about gardening, inspired by beautiful homes, or loves to keep up with the latest entertainment, you’ll find the perfect match at Mags4Gifts.co.nz.
Don't miss out – shop now and make her day unforgettable!
From the team at Mags4Gifts
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