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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.
Neighbourly members have spoken! We’re excited to announce the finalists for the National Prospa Local Business Hero competition, celebrating the most-loved local businesses across the country.
Have a read (click on their blue title to read the nomination) and vote for which business you think… View moreNeighbourly members have spoken! We’re excited to announce the finalists for the National Prospa Local Business Hero competition, celebrating the most-loved local businesses across the country.
Have a read (click on their blue title to read the nomination) and vote for which business you think should take the crown (and impressive prize pack!).
1) Robin Davis - Newcreation (Auckland)
Newcreation came to fruition to support their son’s leukaemia recovery, creating and selling beautiful artwork made from recycled materials. They also transform donated offcuts from local builders and businesses into meaningful creations and give them to the community for free, such as Mother’s Day decorations and stars for Matariki.
2) BFT Blockhouse Bay - Jess & Andy Hart (Auckland)
BFT Blockhouse Bay is a gym but has been described as a true community hub. The owners, Jess and Andy Hart, started as members themselves, so they understand what makes a great gym: a welcoming, supportive environment where mental and physical health are equally valued.
3) Settlers Way Country Store - Jackie Poole & Annie Blackmore (Northland)
Settlers Way Country Store is all about supporting local - selling locally made items, and locally-grown fresh produce that suit a wide range of tastes.
The owners, Jackie Poole & Annie Blackmore, get involved in community projects and run several of the local facebook pages helping keep the community connected.
4) Coronation Grill & Burger - Gaurav Kumar Arora (Waikato)
Coronation Grill and Burger Morrinsville is more than a local eatery, it’s a warm, welcoming hub known for both their hearty meals with fresh ingredients, and their warm hospitality. They love to support local events and their nomination reads ‘They’re a true hometown hero, and we’re lucky to have them.’
5) Robyn's Cottage - Robyn Parker (Bay of Plenty)
Robyn’s Cottage in Greerton, Tauranga is a vibrant haven for craft lovers, filled with threads, wool, patterns, and expert advice from the ever-helpful Robyn. Despite a tough year health-wise, she continues to brighten the community with her knowledge, embroidery services, and creative classes.
6) The Egg Project - Pip Chrystall (Manawatu - Wanganui Region)
Pip and the team from The Egg Project in Bainesse work tirelessly to collaborate with other farms and businesses to provide fresh farm to table eggs, milk, yoghurt, vegetables & other products with free delivery to your door. They help out with community-minded projects and their nomination says they are always cheerful and ready to help.
7) Sparkydaz Electrical & Security - Darren Evans (Hawkes Bay - Gisborne Region)
Sparky Daz Electrical and Security in Onekawa, Napier, stands out for their prompt, professional service and top-quality workmanship, no job too small. Darren and apprentice Kerrie go the extra mile every time.
8) Hire Smart / Smart Aggregates Quarry - Gareth Boyd, Grant Cudby & Grant McEwen (Taranaki)
Hire Smart / Smart Aggregates Quarry is a hardworking team with heart, going above and beyond for their community - from sponsoring local sports to quietly donating materials where needed. Their nominator wrote ‘Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. That's how I feel about the amazing team’
9) Trade School Kitchen - Hannah Drew-Crawshaw & the Team (Wellington region)
Trade School Kitchen in Naenae serves incredible food and drinks, but their true impact lies in their belief that everyone has something to offer - regardless of their past or present challenges. They provide training, employment, and a strong sense of community to help open doors and create new opportunities.
10) Toastie Lords - Taylor Hamilton (Nelson-Marlborough region)
Taylor Hamilton and the Toastie Lords team in Picton have built a beloved toasted sandwich spot from the ground up. With mouth-watering toasties and warm service, they are now famous with locals and cruise ship visitors alike.
11) Catnap Cafe - Nate & Alyssa (Canterbury region)
Catnap Cafe is run by Nate and Alyssa serving drinks and sweet treats with the opportunity to hang out with some feline friends. Working alongside Cat Rescue Christchurch they have rescued and rehomed nearly 200 cats, including special needs felines giving them second chances at a loving home.
12) Rangiora Wool Shop - Katherine McLeod (Canterbury)
Rangiora Wool Shop, led by Katherine McLeod and her team, is a warm, welcoming haven where creativity and community come together. With deep knowledge (and the finest merino!) they bring people together with the joy of creating.
13) Otago Vacuum Tank Services Ltd - Tim and Courtney Giddens (Otago-Southland region)
Otago Vacuum Tank Services (OVTS), led by Tim and Courtney Giddens, provide exceptional service but they also go above and beyond with a smile. From providing fresh water during landslides to organizing fun community events and helping local clubs, they are always ready to support the West Harbour community.
14) Blacks Road Grocer - Christopher Wilson (Otago region)
Blacks Road Grocer in Dunedin is a beloved local gem blending historic charm with a welcoming atmosphere. They offer house-made café treats, fresh local produce, and quality groceries, all served with friendly, attentive service.
The financial challenges involved in organising volunteer conservation work led a Hamilton couple to set up a philanthropic investment fund to fill the funding gaps faced by the region’s nature groups.
Selwyn and Dianne June first established the Waikato Hauraki Conservation Fund at Momentum … View moreThe financial challenges involved in organising volunteer conservation work led a Hamilton couple to set up a philanthropic investment fund to fill the funding gaps faced by the region’s nature groups.
Selwyn and Dianne June first established the Waikato Hauraki Conservation Fund at Momentum Waikato with a significant donation in late 2021, which was during the Covid pandemic, so they only started grantmaking and promoting it to environmental networks in late 2023.
Five conservation projects around the Waikato benefited from those first grants - Kakepuku Mountain Conservation Society for trap refills and bait; Rings Beach Wetland Group Inc for possum, mustelid and rat traps; Kaitiakitanga Charitable Trust for engaging youth on pest control and riparian planting projects; Roselle Gould for predator traps near a stream and wetland at Whangamata; and Holthuizer Farm near Walton for riparian planting.
The Junes’ intent is to provide a long-term funding source for conservation work anywhere in the wider Waikato region, that the public can support with donations.
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.
The answer is yes, it is illegal. And yet in New Zealand it's fairly common to see drivers hitting the road with their fog lights on when it's simply dark.
Those who have sat their written drivers test recently will be in the know, but be honest, did you know it was illegal?
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.
With the US tariffs ramping up and the stock market taking a hit, many are noticing a change in their Kiwisaver amounts.
If you've had a peek at your Kiwisaver balance since, have you seen it decrease?
Air fryers have surged in popularity in recent years, with their uses expanding well beyond chips — from cooking meats to baking desserts.
Do you think the air fryer could ever replace the traditional oven?
The Government has rushed through changes to the Equal Pay Act that will now make it harder for workers to make claims of unfair pay based on gender discrimination.
The move will save billions for the government's budget but will scrap 33 existing pay equity claims affecting over 150,000 … View moreThe Government has rushed through changes to the Equal Pay Act that will now make it harder for workers to make claims of unfair pay based on gender discrimination.
The move will save billions for the government's budget but will scrap 33 existing pay equity claims affecting over 150,000 workers in traditionally female-dominated roles like teachers and support workers.
Do you support this new change?
Retirement is often viewed as a time of relaxation, travel, and personal freedom. While some people look forward to no longer working, for others, it can be a time of emotional upheaval and uncertainty. You may experience feelings of sadness and loss of purpose rather than excitement and happiness.… View moreRetirement is often viewed as a time of relaxation, travel, and personal freedom. While some people look forward to no longer working, for others, it can be a time of emotional upheaval and uncertainty. You may experience feelings of sadness and loss of purpose rather than excitement and happiness. If so, you’re not alone. A feeling of depression after retirement is something that many New Zealanders face at some point.
The good news is that this is often temporary as you adjust to your new lifestyle. If you are wondering how to emotionally cope with retirement, read on to discover practical approaches for tackling post-retirement depression, improving your emotional well-being, and truly enjoying your retirement.
Click read more for the full story.
Kia ora team
Thinking about retirement? Maybe you’re already retired, you’re close to it, or you’re just dreaming of it in the distant future… Check out Stuff’s continuing partnership with Metlifecare, The Good Life.
This time, we’ve looked at the … View moreKia ora team
Thinking about retirement? Maybe you’re already retired, you’re close to it, or you’re just dreaming of it in the distant future… Check out Stuff’s continuing partnership with Metlifecare, The Good Life.
This time, we’ve looked at the nutrient we should be focusing on as we age (and no, it’s not the carbs v fat debate!) plus some luxury rail travel - with gourmet food.
We also feature a fabulous 80s band, by which we mean the youngest member is 80!
Joanna Davis
Homed Editor
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.
Members of the public are being urged to black out their vehicle number plates when advertising them for sale online.
There have been recent reports of number plate identification theft which has led to innocent vehicle owners accumulating parking fines, speeding tickets and reports of petrol … View moreMembers of the public are being urged to black out their vehicle number plates when advertising them for sale online.
There have been recent reports of number plate identification theft which has led to innocent vehicle owners accumulating parking fines, speeding tickets and reports of petrol drive-offs which have been made by offenders in stolen vehicles using the stolen number plates.
People are encouraged to report any suspicious activity around this through our 105 service.
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