1153 days ago

7 Spring Cleaning tasks to get started on

Robert Anderson from Curtain Clean Rotorua

As we emerge from winter hibernation, thick coats are swapped for lighter jackets and it’s time to take stock for the season ahead.

With summer approaching, now’s the time to start thinking about getting some household upkeep out of the way early, so you’re not left slammed in the holiday season when there are a million other things to think about.

Soft furnishings: It’s easy to remember to wipe down hard surfaces, but the often-overlooked soft furnishings in our homes also need some TLC.

Keep an eye on the weather forecast and plan a sunny day to wash couch cushions, blankets, rugs or curtains that could be harbouring dust and bacteria.

Most of us wash the pillowcases on our beds, but the pillows themselves can harbor dust mites and fungi. It’s generally recommended you wash your pillow every two to six months – how to do so depends on its materials, so check the care label.

Clean your heat pump: You can clean your heat pump filter in less than 10 minutes using your vacuum cleaner and brush attachment. If you’re steadily blasting it throughout winter and summer, you should be cleaning it at least four times a year to ensure it’s working smoothly and to enhance its performance.
Windows and doors

After a damp winter, it pays to check the not-so-noticeable corners of your home. Windows and doors need regular maintenance to keep them in good working order and to avoid the likes of rot and corrosion. Look for signs such as chalky surfaces, condensation, mould growth, corroded fixings and blocked drain outlets – all indicate it’s time for a spring clean.

Take extra care not to damage the coating when cleaning coated or specialised glass – follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

The dos and don'ts of donating clothing: As the time comes to swap our winter clothes for more summery attire, sift through your wardrobe for items you haven’t worn in more than a year. Unless it’s a special-occasion piece, chances are you’re not going to be reaching for it any time soon.

Depending on the quality and value of the garments, you may want to sell them online or through a consignment store to earn some cash. If not, you can donate to your local op shop or clothing bin.

Keep reading: www.curtainclean.co.nz...

Image
More messages from your neighbours
6 days ago

Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.

We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?

Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.

Image
Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
  • 53.2% Yes
    53.2% Complete
  • 46.8% No
    46.8% Complete
1883 votes
1 day ago

Appeal for information following fatal crash: Tāneatua

The Team from Bay of Plenty & Taupo Police

Police investigating a fatal crash in Tāneatua are seeking further information from members of the public who witnessed the crash, or any movements leading up to the crash, to assist with our enquiries.

Prior to the crash, Police can confirm the red Honda Accord was observed travelling on Reid Road in excess of the speed limit.

A Police vehicle travelling the other direction observed the vehicle at speed, however was unable to locate the vehicle as it travelled towards White Pine Bush Road.

Police believe there were two other vehicles near or on the Pekatahi Bridge at the time of the crash, and we’d like to speak to the occupants of those vehicles to understand what they saw.

Additionally, we’re still seeking information from anybody who saw a red Honda Accord travelling in and around Tāneatua between 5:30pm and 6pm on Tuesday 2 December.

If you have information, please contact Police via 105, either over the phone or online, referencing file number 251202/5566.

Image
1 day ago

‘Tis the season to not get scammed ...

The Team from New Zealand Police

As Christmas gift shopping moves increasingly online, scammers are ramping up their activity across the country.

Dunedin’s Investigation Support Unit is seeing more and more people fall victim to scams and other fraudulent activity, particularly on Facebook Marketplace.

There are a few ways to avoid the scams and keep yourself safe doing online trades this holiday season, says Southern District Service Delivery Manager Senior Sergeant Dalton.
🔒 “A good first step when looking to purchase something on Marketplace is to check when the seller’s Facebook profile was created. If it’s very recent, there is a higher risk that they have just created this account for a one-off fake item.”
🔒 Another important step is to make sure the seller’s profile name and bank account name match up. “We’re seeing a lot of scammers claiming their bank account name is different because it belongs to their partner or family member - that’s a huge red flag."
🔒 “When you’re selling, never trust a screenshot anyone sends you showing that payment has been made. Check your own bank account to make sure a payment has gone through."
🔒 “Quite frankly, it’s best for all parties to agree to pay, or be paid, for items in cash and in-person. Ideally in a public place with CCTV coverage."
🔒 "If you’re buying a car, check Carjam.co.nz to see if it’s stolen or if there’s money owed on it.”

A reminder: Suspicious activity can be reported on 105

Image