/lifestyle/rss 九一星空无限 Read the latest lifestyle news at 九一星空无限talk ZB. We have the latest in reviews, competitions, events, home & garden, motoring and more.     Thu, 30 Jan 2025 23:21:48 Z en /lifestyle/celebrity-scams-why-people-fall-for-scams-featuring-famous-faces-like-brad-pitt-and-why-it-could-happen-to-you/ /lifestyle/celebrity-scams-why-people-fall-for-scams-featuring-famous-faces-like-brad-pitt-and-why-it-could-happen-to-you/ You’ve all read the headlines: "Woman conned out of her life savings by an AI version of Brad Pitt", "Man loses thousands to crypto scheme fronted by a fake Rod Stewart" - and likely laughed at the gullible people who fall for what seem like such obvious scams. But while it can be hard to believe it could happen to you, it’s not quite so simple. It might not be a Brad Pitt romance scam, but if a well-known Kiwi popped up on your phone talking about a new life-changing supplement, you’d probably take notice. It’s estimated that New Zealanders lost $2.3 billion in online scams last year, according to online safety organisation Netsafe. Chief executive of Age Concern Karen Billings-Jensen says the use of AI to recreate celebrities' faces means it’s “becoming increasingly hard to tell fact from fiction”. An AI version of Brad Pitt was used to trick a French woman out of $1.5 million. “Some of them are still quite clumsy; I think the challenge is that they will become more sophisticated,” she tells the Herald. “Most people hear these stories and think that ‘I would never be gullible’ - but the fact is that we actually often tend to have an increased belief in our own ability to do that, and scammers are clever.” Billings-Jensen notes that we tend to implicitly trust familiar faces, whether they’re movie stars or local celebrities. “I don’t think he’s involved in any scams, but for example, Bradley Walsh on The Chase - he’s in many people’s living rooms five nights a week, and he’s personable, and so there becomes an emotional connection with him. Age Concern chief executive Karen Billings-Jensen. Photo / Mike Clare “It’s that whole psychology around people who we identify with and who we then feel are trustworthy - we know them and know their lives. In New Zealand, it’s often been our news presenters - so our Hilary Barry with her gummies, Hayley Holt used to get a whole lot as well. “They particularly target women presenters and weight loss and things like that, which actually speaks to a whole other issue around sexism and misogyny.” Chief online safety officer at Netsafe Sean Lyons says the organisation sees “a lot” of scams featuring famous faces. “The technology is getting to the point that they are so convincing, that people are increasingly struggling to tell what is a scam apart from what might be a piece of advertorial journalism on a current affairs show or what might be a paid advert on an online platform,” he tells the Herald. “So you’ve got these two things happening simultaneously, the blurring of the way in which people are accessing their media, and the nature of how advertising is changing in that environment.” Netsafe chief online safety officer Sean Lyons. Photo / Supplied “What we’re seeing the scammers doing is exactly what products and services have long been genuinely paying celebrities to do in terms of product endorsement. When I was a kid, if a famous footballer had been advertising Coca-Cola, I’d have been out there buying it by the gallon, and I think that’s the same thing scammers are relying on.” In 2025, it’s easier than ever to recreate a celebrity’s voice and image from the wealth of photos, videos and audio available online, he points out. “Politicians, movie stars, anybody who’s ever been on Graham Norton - there’s a good whack of information in terms of their face, facial movements and audio, probably enough to make a decent stab at that impersonation.” How can we protect ourselves and others from scammers? While Age Concern provides advocacy for older Kiwis, Billings-Jensen says it’s important to note that our seniors aren’t necessarily more vulnerable to scams than younger people. “It’s across all ages.” However, get-rich-quick schemes can look attractive to those who are nearing retirement. “They might have a focus really on needing more money for their retirement or to pass on to their children and grandchildren. So the motivation can be because they want to support their family.” Kiwis of all ages can be vulnerable to scams. Photo / 123rf Billings-Jensen wants to remind Kiwis that “you’ve got the right to be suspicious”. “I’ve always lived by, ‘if it looks to good to be true, then it probably is’. It’s a very old mantra, but it’s not wrong,” she says. “Slow things down, ask advice, and if it’s a product from a particular company, check the company - don’t click on links. At any time, you can stop a conversation. You don’t have to be polite.” Lyons urges “caution and vigilance”. “And that’s not to put the blame on the people that are tricked by these things. If they happened between a retailer and a customer, they’d be frauds - there’d be a con and somebody would be in serious bother about it,” he points out. “It’s stopping and taking a breath and saying, ‘Hang on a second, how likely is it that Angelina Jolie is giving me advice on nail fungus?’” He suggests asking whānau or friends for a second opinion. “Somebody that’s not quite as emotionally attached to either the person that’s doing the convincing, or the issue that they’re trying to solve, be it a new job or weight loss or whatever it is - someone that’s not quite as personally attached to those two things might be able to give you a slightly different objective look. “That might be the kind of thing that could stop or at least put some space between you and the ‘deal’ that’s being offered to you and make you think, ‘Hang on, how real is this? Maybe I don’t want to go any further with this'. In June last year, Consumer NZ launched a campaign and petition calling on the Government, banks and other agencies to unite in taking action against scammers. The consumer affairs watchdog said its research showed all Kiwis were at risk of being scammed, across all ages, genders, ethnicities, incomes and levels of education. FOR HELP:• Cert NZ: Individuals, small businesses can report a cyber attack, get advice.• Financial Markets Authority.• Privacy Commissioner: Complaints about privacy breaches. 0800 803 909 or online.• ID fraud: Department of Internal Affairs advice.• IDCare: Backed by the Ministry of Justice and its counterpart in Australia. Assistance freezing credit records, regaining control of online identity after an ID theft.• NZ Police: Report cybercrime online scams, online child safety issues.• Department of Internal Affairs: Report spam, banned content, child exploitation. Thu, 30 Jan 2025 01:57:47 Z /lifestyle/kiwi-marathon-runner-stefan-ozich-breaks-record-running-twice-the-length-of-nz-for-men-s-mental-health/ /lifestyle/kiwi-marathon-runner-stefan-ozich-breaks-record-running-twice-the-length-of-nz-for-men-s-mental-health/ Warning: This story references mental health issues and suicide. Please take care.  A 29-year-old endurance runner from Auckland has become the first person to run and hike the length of New Zealand and back on the Te Araroa trail.  Stefan Ozich set out on October 1, 2024 to raise awareness and funds for men’s mental health through a Givealittle page for the charity The Last Chance Project.  For Ozich, it’s personal — he lost his brother and a close friend to suicide in recent years.  Speaking to the Herald, he said it felt “surreal” to have achieved his goal.  “Relieved, grateful and very, very overwhelmed ... it was definitely an emotional explosion, let’s put it that way,” he said of reaching the lighthouse at Cape Reinga on January 22, where family and friends were waiting to meet him.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Last Chance Project Charitable Trust (@thelastchanceproject22) “But also just thinking about Jerome and just knowing that he’s not there. But he was there, in a way. And I’ve done it, bro.”  Ozich has previously completed Ironman, half Ironman and 100-mile ultramarathons, but crossing this finish line was “the most relieved I’ve ever felt,” he said.  Looking back at his journey, he said there were moments he thought he couldn’t go another step — from battling unrelenting headwinds while heading north to thinking he was going to die in the Tararua Ranges before he was helicoptered out.  “The rain was bearing down, freezing cold, and that was one low moment where I did not want to be there. I thought I was gone. I was, literally, having those flashback moments of life and what matters to me.”  Now, his plans for recovery include plenty of sleep, good food, massage therapy and contrast therapy using saunas and ice baths, as well as more movement to prevent his muscles from seizing up.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Stefan Ozich (@stefanozich) And he’s already looking ahead to his next challenge, with one race coming up in March and more planned for later in the year.  Rather than feel proud of what he’s achieved, he feels “grateful”.  “I’m honoured to have been able to represent my brother and Jordan in this way - it’s just such an overwhelming feeling to know that I was able to follow through and finish.”  Though at the time of writing he had hit just $222,867 of his $1m fundraising goal, Ozich was awed by the generosity of those who donated.  “It’s amazing. It goes to show that when people care for something that’s bigger than them, they give what they can and that’s all I ask of them.”  Stefan Ozich has run the length of the Te Araroa trail twice to raise awareness and funds for men's mental health. Photo / Supplied  For Ozich, the goal wasn’t just to raise money but to start conversations around mental health.  “[Now] we can talk about where to from here — what can we do? What action can we take?  “The next step to me is huge, because, yeah, talking is good — but we need to actually take this step and do something with it.”  Speaking to the Herald last September, a month before he was due to begin the challenge, Ozich said that when it came to mental health, “I think there’s this confusion and misconception that men develop because we’re actually more sensitive than we like to believe”.  “This is where the Last Chance Project comes in — we can foster that and allow that in a safe environment where other men are feeling the same way, and it’s like, ‘Oh, it’s okay to have these emotions, feelings, thoughts and it’s all good, and I’ve got something to offer, and this is a valuable thing’.”  About men’s mental health in New Zealand  In New Zealand, men are more than twice as likely to take their own lives as women, according to the Ministry of Health, and are less likely to ask for help with their mental health, according to the Mental Health Foundation.  Men can struggle to recognise their own symptoms of depression as it can present differently than in women. It can manifest as fatigue, restlessness, feelings of isolation, difficulty sleeping, or changes in appetite and weight.  A family history of depression, health or relationship problems, work or financial stress, and major life changes can all be factors.  If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties with their mental health, talk to your GP and reach out to your friends and family for help.  The Last Chance Project aims to offer mental health help and support to men of all ages, in personal, school or workplace settings. You can find out more here.    Where to get help:• Lifeline: Call 0800 543 354 or text 4357 (HELP) (available 24/7)• Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7)• Youth services: (06) 3555 906• Youthline: Call 0800 376 633 or text 234• What's Up: Call 0800 942 8787 (11am to 11pm) or webchat (11am to 10.30pm)• 0800 Anxiety Helpline: 0800 269 4389 (0800 ANXIETY). This service is confidential and free of charge. Open 24/7.• Depression helpline: Call 0800 111 757 or text 4202 (available 24/7)• Helpline: Need to talk? Call or text 1737• Aoake te Rā (Bereaved by Suicide Service): Call 0800 000 053If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111. Fri, 24 Jan 2025 01:01:11 Z /lifestyle/doctor-horrified-after-x-ray-shows-man-infested-with-tapeworm-eggs-after-major-cooking-error/ /lifestyle/doctor-horrified-after-x-ray-shows-man-infested-with-tapeworm-eggs-after-major-cooking-error/ A doctor has been left stunned after he made a disgusting discovery inside a man’s body following a routine X-ray check up.  United States doctor Dam Ghali shared the image of an unnamed patient, claiming it was “one of the most insane X-rays I’ve ever seen”.  When taking an X-ray of the pelvis for a patient, he quickly discovered the man was infested with hundreds of tapeworm eggs.  “What is jumping right out off the screen at us is this femur is riddled with these linear densities and they’re everywhere. You can’t even begin to count them all. So what the hell are they?” he explained while examining the X-ray.  “This is a condition known as cysticercosis. Essentially these are larval cysts of taenia solium – also known as the pork tapeworm.”  He explained the condition often occurs after a human eats raw or uncooked pig.  The person then becomes infected with tapeworms in their GI tract. They then can travel anywhere through the body.  He said in this case the cysts have moved to the muscular and soft tissue regions of the hips and legs in their hundreds.  While the tapeworms didn’t pose a life-threatening problem in this case, in many cases it can cause major issues or even death.  Here's a video I made breaking down one of the most insane X-Rays I've ever seen#FOAMed pic.twitter.com/wp8xtGFTV5— Sam Ghali, M.D. (@EM_RESUS) January 16, 2025 Dr Ghali said that major issues occur when they “travel to the brain and lodge there”.  In some cases it can cause a condition called “neurocysticercosis that can lead to neurological symptoms like headaches, confusion, seizures and even death”.  He stressed for people to never eat raw or undercooked pork.  It can carry other parasites like Trichinella spiralis which could case muscle pain, fever, nausea and breathing difficulties.  The common symptoms with such infection are diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, fever, and fatigue.  Thu, 23 Jan 2025 23:54:36 Z /lifestyle/travel/po-australia-says-cruise-staff-dressed-as-snow-cones-not-ku-klux-klan-in-viral-video/ /lifestyle/travel/po-australia-says-cruise-staff-dressed-as-snow-cones-not-ku-klux-klan-in-viral-video/ Cruise ship staff clad in pointed white hoods for an Australian costume party were “snow cones” not the Ku Klux Klan, a company spokesperson said on Wednesday. Video of the fancy dress faux pas showed staff strolling across the deck of an Australian cruise liner in all-white jumpsuits and cone-shaped hats. The costumes evoked the distinctive white robes and masked hoods worn by the racist Ku Klux Klan in the United States. But P&O Cruises Australia said the staff were actually dressed as “snow cones” for a Christmas-themed family fun day. “Several crew members dressed up as snow cones for a Christmas family event, not understanding how their costumes could be misconstrued,” a company spokesperson said in a statement. “They were only in public view for a short time before management acted quickly and had them remove the costumes. “The crew members were horrified and extremely apologetic when they learned of the distress their outfits could cause.” P&O Australia communications director Lynne Scrivens said it was an innocent case of improvisation gone awry. “They live and work on the cruise ship, and they have to make do with what they’ve got,” she told Sydney radio station 2GB. “They are wearing their cleaning uniforms, and they’ve got something on their head that looks like an upside-down snow cone. “They had no idea, they were horrified when management said to them, ‘please take those outfits off’.” Scrivens said 2000 guests were onboard the Pacific Explorer for the Christmas party in December, and that none of them had complained at the time. - Agence France-Presse Wed, 22 Jan 2025 08:21:32 Z /lifestyle/what-is-the-best-way-to-clean-your-oven-there-isn-t-one-according-to-the-experts/ /lifestyle/what-is-the-best-way-to-clean-your-oven-there-isn-t-one-according-to-the-experts/ Viral hacks, self-cleaning, harsh chemicals – every option is terrible. A funny thing about being a cleaning expert is that it’s a bit like being a doctor at a cocktail party: everyone wants to show you their proverbial mole. Usually, this is fine – in fact, it often leads to an interesting or hilarious conversation, or both. But there is one common cleaning question that I do not like to answer, that I find myself, if not outright lying about, at the very least doing some impressive fudging and fibbing to avoid answering directly. The question is: “What do you use to clean your oven?” The problem with oven cleaning Rachel Hoffman, a cleaning expert and the author of Unf*ck Your Habitat, sums up the problem of oven cleaners thusly: “Either it either works and wants to kill you, or it doesn’t work all that well, but you can breathe.” But what is it that makes cleaning an oven, in particular, so challenging? I had an inkling that stubborn oven messes had something to do with polymerisation, a chemical process in which small molecules join, forming more complex structures called polymers. In the kitchen, you know polymerisation by the more colloquial name “seasoning,” which refers the process of heating thin layers of fat to give cast iron cookware a non-stick coating. I floated this theory by Daniel Gritzer, the editorial director of Serious Eats, who has long been my go-to expert on all things cast iron, to ask if I was onto something. “I think you’re right,” he said. “The problem is fat splatter can polymerise on the surface of the oven and, essentially, it’s like you’re seasoning the interior of your oven like you would a cast iron pan. Except that it’s not intentional.” Fat splatter can polymerise on the surface of the oven, making it difficult to clean. Photo / Getty Images Bikramjit Singh, a research and development manager at Reckitt, the maker of Easy-Off oven cleaner, confirms this. “After cooking, the food and grease baked and burnt into your oven turn into a hard polymer of varied hardness that’s very tough to clean.” Leave the viral sensations to the influencers Clever-looking hacks abound on social media, where influencers peddle the latest “must-have” cleaning agents and tools. Unfortunately, what you see online doesn’t reflect real life. “I think it gives people false expectations of how easy or how effective they are,” Hoffman says of typical CleanTok content. “Like, let’s be transparent about that.” In 2024, I reviewed three viral cleaning products – the Pink Stuff, a highly alkaline abrasive scouring paste; the Bissell Steam Shot, a handheld steam cleaner with attachments for scrubbing and scouring; and motorised scrub brushes of various sizes that are designed to lend powerful mechanical action to tough cleaning jobs – testing them on everything from stained concrete to my oven. While each had its standout uses, all three failed spectacularly when it came to oven cleaning. The Pink Stuff did virtually nothing to break down polymerised fats and left behind a chalky film that took ages to wipe away. The Steam Shot, which produces an impressive plume of steam that was a revelation when used on dirty grout lines, fell totally flat when it came to cleaning the oven. And the electric scrub brushes made a huge mess, leaving the oven splattered with cleaning agents that did absolutely nothing to penetrate and break down baked-on messes. Hoffman tried a viral steam-cleaning method that calls for placing a pan of water in the oven and heating it to create steam. The idea is that the steam will loosen burned-on food, allowing you to easily wipe the oven clean once it’s cool enough to touch. It is a lovely idea, but one that, in Hoffman’s experience, doesn’t bear out in reality. “I don’t know that it was necessarily a lot more effective than just heating stuff up until it burns and then wiping it off.” Forget baking soda and vinegar – it doesn’t work Hoffman mentions using a baking soda paste to scour a dirty oven, which she says was “somewhat effective,” adding: “I don’t believe that the baking soda itself actually added that much cleaning power. Honestly, regular elbow grease with a scrub sponge is probably just as effective.” Adding vinegar to the mix won’t move the needle, either. After the fun fizzing effect created when baking soda and vinegar are combined dissipates, you will be left with, essentially, a salt solution – and a salt solution will do absolutely nothing to penetrate polymerised fat. It’s why kosher salt is often recommended for scouring cast iron pans: salt will remove stuck-on food from the cooking surface without removing the pan’s layer of seasoning. Hoffman says "regular elbow grease with a scrub sponge is probably just as effective" at cleaning as baking soda. Photo / Getty Images So yes, you could scour away with a sponge and some baking soda in an effort to avoid harsh cleaning products, but as cleaning experts, we have something we want to say to you about that choice. “I want people to be honest about how much work the homemade ones actually take,” Hoffman says. “You’re sacrificing efficiency.” On the other hand, she points out: “And if you’re going for the commercial ones, you’re sacrificing safety.” Don’t even think about using the self-cleaning option Ovens with a self-cleaning function use high heat or steam to clean the interior. While in theory the clean-it-with-flame approach sounds grand, the self-cleaning function has significant drawbacks. The self-cleaning cycle, which typically takes one-and-a-half to three hours to complete and as long as six hours, produces strong, noxious fumes. It also carries the risk of costly damage to oven components, as well as of fire: heat cleaning uses temperatures of 800 to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit (426-537°C) to turn residue to ash that can be wiped away. Exposure to such intense heat puts a lot of stress on the oven’s interior and electrical parts, weakening the oven’s door seals, hinges and the accuracy of its internal thermostat. It’s also worth noting, Gritzer says, that “self-cleaning” is a misnomer. “You’re not saving yourself the clean-up if you use the oven self-cleaning cycle – you still have to deal with whatever happens,” he says. “That stuff is removable, but it still needs to be removed. It’s like one of the fundamental laws of physics: If there’s s*** in your oven, there’s gonna be s*** in your oven after the cleaning cycle.” The experts agree: The stuff in the can is the best stuff, and we’re sorry about that By now you’ve guessed our dirty secret: we use Easy-Off to clean our ovens. Why? “Easy-Off works,” Gritzer admits. Unfortunately, harsh chemical cleaning agents are needed once a cooking mess in the oven has polymerised. “Your everyday household cleaning items alone just aren’t enough to tackle that hardened grease,” Singh says. “Conventional grease removal methods do not work on these types of grease, therefore requiring an alternative chemistry.” Oven cleaners like Easy-Off typically contain sodium hydroxide, which is also known as caustic soda or lye, an alkali that can penetrate organic matter and oil-based ingredients like ethers that help to break down grease. Sodium hydroxide, in particular, is highly irritating and corrosive and can cause severe burns to any tissue that it comes in contact with, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC also warns that it can be immediately irritating to the respiratory tract if inhaled. Despite having harsh chemical cleaning agents, oven cleaners are needed to remove the hardened grease. Photo / Thinkstock But when faced with what Gritzer calls “a disgusting oven”, there’s almost no way around using the canned stuff. Its corrosivity is what makes it so effective at breaking apart polymerised messes in an oven. “The exposure of fats, oils and food molecules at high temperatures cause reactions like dehydration and oxidation,” Singh says, “which results in cross-linking between those molecules. The higher the cross-linking, the more rigid it becomes and is difficult to remove by conventional grease removal processes.” The active ingredients in oven cleaners, he says, “penetrate this polymerised grease, cause saponification and make it easy to clean.” To avoid the can, clean regularly (we’re also sorry about that) “Here’s the truth,” Gritzer says with the deeply relatable sigh of a person who has something unpopular but totally correct to say. “The best method of cleaning an oven is to not let it get dirty in the first place. It is 100% easier if you can have a maintenance strategy versus a, um, recovery strategy.” Routine spot cleaning, then, is the answer to avoiding the can. When something spills in the oven or after you’ve cooked a dish that produces fat splatter, like bacon or a roasted chicken, use a mild cleaner and a non-scratch scrub sponge to wipe the interior clean. This type of routine cleaning will prevent the polymerisation effect from occurring or, at the very least, will keep the worst of it at bay. But once a spill or oil has cooled and been reheated, polymerising on the surface of the oven like the coating on a cast iron skillet, you will need the can. Wed, 22 Jan 2025 03:37:11 Z /lifestyle/technology/ecovacs-deebot-n20-pro-plus-when-less-is-best/ /lifestyle/technology/ecovacs-deebot-n20-pro-plus-when-less-is-best/ Make no mistake, I've been a convert of robot vacuums for years. There's nothing like coming home from work - or even a holiday - to discover your house has been freshly vacuumed. But if there's one thing I've learned about these technological timesavers, it's that they require more attention than you might have initially suspected. Just because they're robots doesn't mean they can do everything themselves. Yes, some have their own self-cleaning stations, but those stations still need emptying eventually. Brushes and filters also wear out over time and will need replacing.  The good news is, one of the latest DEEBOT robot vacuums from ECOVACS now does a much better job of looking after itself. The DEEBOT N20 PRO PLUS doesn't look dramatically different from other ECOVACS robot vacuums but the same can't be said for its auto-empty station. It's quite a compact home base and unlike previous models that contained large, disposable bags to collect the dust, dirt and other detritus, here ECOVACS introduces its PureCyclone Technology.  Instead of emptying into a large bag that you eventually have to throw away and replace, everything is sucked directly into an easily-removable, 400ml dust chamber which just clicks out for you to empty, then clicks back in just as easily. There are so many advantages to this new system, other than the fact you're not having to fork out for replacement dust bags every few months. Obviously, it means less waste, so it's better for the environment. It also maintains total suction right up until the chamber is full and the dust chamber on board the N20 vacuum itself stays spotlessly empty after every clean. This in turn means the vacuum also maintains full power and I can assure you, that 8000Pa of suction leaves your floors looking amazing, every time. The N20 PRO PLUS also features a new, four-stage filter system, keeping any unwanted dust or odours to an absolute minimum - great news for you allergy-prone sneezers out there. Another new innovation is the ZeroTangle main brush head. ECOVACS claims the combination of flat and outward-rotating angled bristles with a double set of comb teeth prevents hair getting wrapped around the roller brush.  This is a constant issue in my house, as it is occupied by three long-haired ladies and a dog. Unfortunately, the DEEBOT's ZeroTangle system doesn't quite seem to live up to the hype and I still find myself having to cut tangled hair from the roller every few cleans. On the upside, there aren't any rubber blades on this brush head, which always seem to be the first things to wear out on other vacuums so again, it looks like I won't have to replace the roller as often. There's only one side brush on the N20 PRO PLUS whereas many other robot vacuums have two. These spinning, brushes are designed to sweep debris from corners and the base of skirting boards into the path of the main roller to be sucked up. I was worried one brush less would make this device half as effective but as far as I can tell, it's more than smart enough to compensate, spinning around in tight spaces to ensure the most thorough clean possible. Yet again, this will save me money as it's one less accessory I'll have to replace when it wears out. Depending on your budget, robot vacuums handle mopping one of two ways; either you manually add some kind of mopping attachment or there's an automated filling and emptying feature on the base station. Having your robot fill itself with clean water, go out and mop, then return to drain the dirty water and clean itself certainly sounds very sci-fi. But guess what? Sooner or later you're going to have to fill up that clean water tank in the base station and deal with the dirty water tank too. Ick. Unless things can progress to the point where the base station can be plumbed in, (no, I don't know how that would work either, but they did it with fridges) I now think it's easier to do things the N20 way; a separate mopping module with its own water reservoir and a replaceable pad underneath. You just fill it up, pop it in and let the automated mopping begin. I've always been impressed with the results from DEEBOT mopping and with the latest OZMO Pro 2.0 vibrating mopping system, ECOVACS has only improved the experience, leaving a spotless, quick-dry finish. There have also been improvements to the high-traction drive wheels on the N20 PRO PLUS, now ensuring door-sills, mats and rugs up to 20mm high are literally no obstacle. This can actually cause its own issues, which I'll explain shortly - but for the most part, I've found the object detection, avoidance and general manoeuvrability to be first-rate. The potential for trouble arises once the N20 PRO PLUS has completed its initial scan and mapping of your floor plan when you first set it up. Although the automated mapping procedure is very quick and leaves you with an accurate map you can customise, if you have floor-level windows or ranch-sliders, the DEEBOT will scan right through the glass and add whatever's outside as an extra room. Unless you then separate this "ghost room" using a virtual boundary on your map in the ECOVACS HOME app, next time the N20 vacuums when you leave the ranch-slider open, it'll probably just carry on outside, easily summiting any low doorstep, happily vacuuming or mopping your deck. This is exactly what happened to me and of course, I was able to solve the issue with the late application of the aforementioned virtual boundary. Trouble is, while out on the deck, the DEEBOT must have sucked up some fairly large leaves. Quite impressive... until I couldn't figure out why that oh-so-powerful PureCylone auto-empty station wasn't emptying anything. Turned out, one of those leaves was blocking up the works. Nice to know there's enough suction for an object of that size but kind of annoying I can't just delete those "ghost rooms" off my map. This has always been an issue with the DEEBOT system and I can't wait for the day a simple app update finally fixes it. Before I conclude, battery life is definitely worth a mention. The N20 PRO PLUS claims an amazing 300-minute runtime on its fully-charged, 5200mAh battery. I haven't run it that long to check because it doesn't take anything like that long to clean my whole house. This is by far the best battery performance from any robot vacuum I've tested to date. Better battery, efficient and effective fuss-free mopping, an improved brush system and best of all, no bag to replace. Ever. If they could just nail that Anti-Tangle thing, the N20 PRO PLUS would be close to perfect.      Click here for more information on the ECOVACS DEEBOT N20 PRO PLUS. Wed, 22 Jan 2025 00:34:50 Z /lifestyle/travel/why-some-travellers-refuse-to-buy-flights-on-a-phone/ /lifestyle/travel/why-some-travellers-refuse-to-buy-flights-on-a-phone/ In the modern age of travel, the vast majority of people book their flights online. But how, exactly, keeps evolving. Some fliers use computers. Others scroll on their phone or tablet. According to social media, which one you use falls along a generational divide. Booking on your phone? A millennial would never. With 5G internet and mobile-first design, shopping on your mobile device has never been easier. Data provided by airlines shows many consumers are making the switch. But several people told us in interviews they are still reluctant to make big purchases on a small screen. Does booking on your laptop mean you’ve crossed over into no-show sock territory? The data says “no”. A fear of typos United Airlines said more than eight million customers booked through the United app last year, a 15% increase compared with 2023. The airline said that about a third of United’s millennial customers booked flights on the app in 2024. Kim Cisek, vice-president of customer experience for American Airlines said that both millennial and Gen Z travellers tend to book travel slightly more on their mobile app than Gen X or baby boomers. Experts say well-designed apps generally protect your security and privacy just as well as a website, although they do come with their own risks. For some users, perception is still catching up to reality. “I trust the security on my laptop more for big purchases,” said travel writer Jason Frye, 47. Scott Keyes, founder of the cheap-flight service Going, said he uses a computer to book flights 90% of the time. “It’s frankly just a little fear of typos,” said Keyes, 38. “A typo when you’re booking a flight can be a big deal.” Spell your name wrong or punch in the wrong date, and you won’t be boarding. The bigger the device, the more likely you may spot an error. The larger the keyboard, the less likely you are to make one. “You’ve got a lot less screen real estate on a phone than on a computer,” he said. For others, it’s psychological. Your phone is for scrolling on the toilet, not making three-figure transportation decisions. In an informal poll conducted on Instagram, I asked travellers about their booking preferences. Dozens of responders favoured computers over phones. Their overwhelming sentiment: Big purchases call for big screens. “Booking something as serious as a flight on a PHONE is unimaginable to me. Criminal,” said Allison Chin, 32, who lives in Los Angeles. Improved apps push users to phones When it comes to booking on a computer, members of Gen Z seem more like-minded on the issue than their elders think. I surveyed more than 30 travellers born between 1998 and 2007. Only five were adamant about exclusively using their phones to book flights. Most said they prefer laptops, referencing the “big screen, big purchase” adage. “I just find it easier, I guess, with [a] bigger screen,” said Will Hunt, 17, who’s recently been using his laptop to shop for cheap flights for an upcoming boarding school break. “Easier to compare options.” Plenty said they do both, mirroring a wider trend: After years of being clunky and unnecessary, airline apps are finally good and people are keen on using them - for shopping, booking or changing a flight, planning your layover meals, or begging an AI chatbot for frequent flier miles to compensate for a delay. For many travel tasks, the user experience feels smoother on a phone. Even booking sites without apps, like Google Flights, are much more pleasant on mobile than ever before, enabling easier online shopping. But with so many data points involved in airfare - connections, seat preferences - it’s understandable that some shoppers still want a keyboard and mouse. No difference in airfare Combine the dynamic pricing of airfare with the instant access of online shopping and you’ve got a recipe for paranoia. So I went to the founders of two companies that specialise in booking cheap flights - Keyes of Going and Aktarer Zaman of Skiplagged - to ask whether the device you use to book leads to better or worse prices. “I don’t think there’s much of a difference,” said Zaman, 32, who primarily books his flights through his phone. “I can’t speak for every company whether they do any fishy business, but we don’t,” he said. “For example, if you use our website on your desktop or you use our app on your phone, it’s the same exact price.” Keyes agreed neither is better for bargain hunting. Ahead of our call, he also compared prices for the same flight on Google Flights, Expedia, and Delta, both on his computer and on his phone, and got the same results. He has not seen any truth to the rumour that the higher quality the device, the higher prices you’ll get in a search: “So if you have the newest iPhone model, the airline is more likely to show you a higher price than if you’re booking on like a 2015 Dell desktop,” Keyes said. “I can understand why that could happen,” he added. “I’ve just never actually seen evidence that it happened in reality.” The same is true for the myth that your internet history affects your airfare. Keyes says no, airlines are not tracking your searches - phone or desktop - and raising the price to pressure you into booking. “For the folks who are convinced that this theoretical argument is actually true … they mistake the inherent volatility of airfare with a sort of Truman Show ‘they are watching me and trying to squeeze every dollar out of me,’” he said. You very well may see prices rise each time you search for flights, “but that’s not because of your phone versus your computer. That’s because airfare is constantly changing,” he said. Tue, 21 Jan 2025 02:19:59 Z /lifestyle/travel/turkish-airlines-eyeing-auckland-istanbul-flights-report/ /lifestyle/travel/turkish-airlines-eyeing-auckland-istanbul-flights-report/ Turkish Airlines — one of the world’s biggest carriers — is eyeing New Zealand for flights, according to a report from Turkey. The fast-growing airline last year started fights between Australia and Istanbul (via Singapore) and its chairman this weekend has been reported as saying Auckland would be among new destinations. Chairman Ahmet Bolat announced plans to launch services to Minneapolis in April or May this year and also to Auckland, Turkish website Turizm ekonomi reported. The Auckland flight would also stop in Singapore. He said that with the flight, Turkish Airlines would have the biggest flight network in the world and there has been speculation earlier the airline was eyeing New Zealand. The announcement came during the Turkish Airlines Management Summit 2025 in Antalya. Under a 2010 air services agreement, New Zealand airlines can serve any point in Turkey, via any intermediate point, and beyond to any other point. Turkish airlines have reciprocal rights. Turkish started flying in 1933 and now services 350 destinations in about 130 countries. As of June 2024, Turkish had a fleet comprising 125 twin-aisle, 307 single-aisle passenger aircraft and 25 cargo aircraft. It had a total workforce of 56,000. Half owned by Turkey’s sovereign wealth fund, in the 2023 financial year it had revenue of US$21 billion ($37b). Services between Istanbul and Melbourne are initially operating three times a week via Singapore, with reports stating non-stop flights are planned when new long-haul aircraft arrive. It will use Boeing 777s, 787-9s and Airbus A350s on the Melbourne route. The airline started four times-a-week flights to Sydney in December. It could use A350-1000s — the same planes as Qantas will use on its Project Sunrise flights to London and New York — for non-stop flights to Australia, and possibly New Zealand. Australia’s Executive Traveller last year described the airline’s business class as bringing ‘’fresh five-star style to the skies‘’. Auckland Airport has been courting airlines in the Middle East and has been asked for comment on the possibility of Turkish flying here. It would be a coup for the airport and add much-needed long-—haul capacity to and from New Zealand. Grant Bradley has been working at the Herald since 1993. He is the Business Herald’s deputy editor and covers aviation and tourism. Mon, 20 Jan 2025 02:24:02 Z /lifestyle/technology/nanoleaf-senseplus-make-your-smart-home-more-accessible/ /lifestyle/technology/nanoleaf-senseplus-make-your-smart-home-more-accessible/ If I lived alone, I'd have the smartest home imaginable. Depending on the time of day (or night) each room would light up as I entered. Music would start playing automatically. The temperature would always be 22°. At a single command, the lights would go down, my TV would turn on and my favourite show would start playing from where I left off. I literally already have all the gear to make that a reality. But alas... I'm not the only one who lives here. Not only are the other cohabitants unwilling to sit down and learn exactly how all these gadgets work so they can control them themselves, I'm not sure I have the patience or communication skills to teach them. I get it. As it stands, I use three different virtual assistants to control dozens of devices, not to mention those that actually work better with their own apps or remotes. I have to admit, it's a bit of a nightmare really and I'm not sure why my family puts up with any of it. So when Nanoleaf came up with a simple way for everyone to control the lights, I was definitely interested. The Nanoleaf Sense+ - to put it simply - is just a switch. Which means the next time Domestic Manager complains, "Why can't there just be a switch?" I'll be able to point to it. In fact, I'll be able to hand it to her. That's because although the Sense+ looks a lot like any other wall-mounted light switch, it's only the mounting plate that's fixed to the wall; either screwed on or fixed in place using the less-permanent adhesive backing. The switch itself merely magnetises in place - in fact, it can stick to any metal surface that's magnet-friendly. Being completely wireless means the Sense+ is perhaps more a remote control than a switch and as such, it'll do a lot more than just turn your lights on and off. Although, let's not underestimate the elegant simplicity of two nice big buttons - one with a picture of an illuminated light bulb and one obviously unlit. No doubt at all what's going on there. Then, in the middle of the matchbox-sized pull-out module you'll find a dimmer rocker. Again, no ambiguity - a simple plus or minus for brighter or darker. No instructions required. Things get a little more complicated with the left and right-hand buttons though. These are fully programmable via the Nanoleaf app and can be assigned three different functions each, depending on what sort of lights you're controlling. It's worth noting here that not all Nanoleaf smart lights are compatible with the Sense+, so you'll probably want to do a bit of Googling before you purchase, just to make sure all your lights are going to play nicely together. I've found results can be a bit inconsistent when you group older generation lights with the newer, Matter-over-Thread-enabled models so you're better off upgrading anyway. Regardless, it's important to update the firmware on any Nanoleaf devices you want to pair with the Sense+ before you start. This is, unfortunately, a torturously long process which often doesn't work first time. Even if you've set up your lights using Apple's Home app on an iOS device, you'll still be directed to the Nanoleaf app for the firmware update. And while, in theory, you can queue several several lights for updating simultaneously, I'd advise against it, because if something goes wrong halfway through, you may have to factory reset the light completely and start from scratch. As you will have gathered, this is not the part of the process every member of the household should get involved in. However, once everything is updated, you've paired the Sense+ and created a "Control Group" for it to link with, it's then a very easy process to assign functions for single clicks, double clicks and long presses of the left and right buttons. For example, a single click of the right-hand button cycles all the lights in my living room through a list of different colours. Meanwhile, a double click of the left-hand button sets them to warm white. But the real beauty of Nanoleaf smart lights is their ability to show customisable scenes - changing patterns of colours you can select from a growing list of preset templates, or you can create your own. Once you've saved any of these scenes to your list of favourites, they too can be assigned to one of the buttons on the Sense+. This has got to be great news for any long-suffering family members of a tech geek like me. Now there's an easy-to find, physical switch to control the lights with. Just like the old days. But wait... The Sense+ has two other hidden features that give it its name; a motion sensor and a daylight sensor. This means you may not need to use any of the buttons at all. You can set the Sense+ to turn on the lights when it gets dark or when someone enters the room. Or more usefully, a combination of the two; automatically light up the room when someone enters... but only at night. Both motion and light sensitivity can be adjusted to your preference using the app and both sensors do the job perfectly. And because Sense+ uses Matter-over-Thread rather than just simple bluetooth or potentially crowded Wi-Fi, the commands from the buttons are carried out pretty much instantly, with almost no lag whatsoever. When it comes to summing up the Sense+, the word "simple" keeps coming to mind. It's simple to install (and looks just like any other light switch when magnetised in place). And it's simple to use - meaning the rest of the family are no longer living in the dark when it comes to the smart lights in your home.  The update process should be simple too - unfortunately, this has always been an issue with Nanoleaf products and there's still a lot of room for improvement. But don't let that one gripe put you off setting up your own Sense+ system. If I had my way, I'd have one in every room of the house.      Click here for more information and pricing on the Nanoleaf Sense+ smart wireless switch. Mon, 20 Jan 2025 00:08:36 Z /lifestyle/travel/mike-yardley-savouring-the-flavours-of-blenheim/ /lifestyle/travel/mike-yardley-savouring-the-flavours-of-blenheim/ Bracketed by the biscuit-brown Wither Hills and the lofty prongs of the Richmond Ranges, Blenheim’s vast blanket of the Wairau Plain bursts with possibilities. When it comes to winery finery, few venues can hold a candle to the elemental elegance of Wither Hills Cellar Door & Restaurant. Exuding a mix of contemporary design and relaxed sophistication, coupled with soul-rinsing views from their four-storey tower; the Wither Hills Winery is pitch-perfect for a wine tasting and bite to eat. I met up with Steve from Explore Marlborough Wine Tours for lunch at Wither Hills, noshing on king prawns and parmesan arancini; salt and pepper squid; and BBQ eggplant. They do lip-smacking small and share plates or larger portions if you’re not in a sharing mood.   Be sure to take a stroll among the vines in the Vine Library, showcasing several dozen varieties; and savour the sublime Barrel Hall, a sensory treat with the seductive scent of oak and yeast. I also enjoyed a great wine tasting, sipping and swirling my way through a single vineyard wine flight. As the national powerhouse of Sauvignon Blanc, try Wither Hills’ Rarangi 2021, where minerality, sea salt and lime form the backbone of this delightful sav blanc. I also love their Taylor River Pinot Noir, which is a fruit-forward, light bodied pinot, bursting with plums, cherries and oak spice. For bubbles, you can never go wrong with Daniel Le Brun.  Wither Hills Winery. Photo / Destination Marlborough Steve and I then headed over to Vines Village, which is homebase for Explore Marlborough’s wine tours. They offer a great range of options, included guided or self-guided tours. Kitted out with a trusty e-bike, over the next few hours, we tootled our way around the vineyards, mostly on off-road trails, including the fabulous stopbank of the Wairau River, which serves up elevated views of the vast bucolic canvas. www.exploremarlborough.co.nz   Highlights included Forrest Estate Wines, home of the Doctors. John and Brigid Forrest led successful scientific research and medicine careers, but in the late 1980s, they ventured into wine-making. This distinguished family winery is located on the stunning grounds where the Forrest family grew up. The Cellar Door is a family-friendly, dog-friendly venue with lovely, leafy grounds. The Doctors range have been purposely designed as light alcohol wines. All below 10%, these wines still deliver a full flavour explosion in your mouth! I love their Pinot Gris.  But my biggest highlight was tasting the glorious wines of Hans Herzog Estate, widely acclaimed as one of the best wineries in New Zealand. Hans planted Pinot Gris, Viognier and Montepulciano over 30 years ago - rarely seen varieties in New Zealand at the time. Today the 11.5 hectare vineyard is densely planted and a complex patchwork of 26 different grape varieties, produces some of New Zealand's most treasured organic wines, adhering to both organic and bio-dynamic principles. All grapes are handpicked and the uncompromising dedication for tending to his vines produces wines layered with texture, complexity and purity. The effervescent Cellar Door Manager, Sharon guided me through a truly superlative tasting and a fascinating tour of the intimate estate. It is no wonder that Hans Herzog’s small-batch artisan wines are snapped-up by discerning wine-lovers, worldwide.  Hans Herzog vineyards. Photo / Hans Herzog The Marlborough Wine & Food Festival is fast approaching. New Zealand's longest-running wine and food festival is now in its fourth decade. It’s next outing is set down for February 8. Blenheim accommodation will book out, so lock in your in plans, pronto.  Despite Marlborough’s blockbuster reputation in the grape stakes, it’s not just wine that this plucky region produces with such panache. Blenheim’s thriving craft beer scene froths with discoveries. One of the popular boys on the block is Boom Town Brewing Company, turning out crisp, smooth, easy drinking craft beers. There’s the Alabama APA, Whites Bay IPA, Marlborough Lager, Baby Boom Pale Ale – and the big-selling, Pelorus Pilsener. Ship Cove Stout is well worth a try, too. The Boom Town Beer Garden is a popular go-to for fresh tap beers, sun and relaxed vibes in the warmer months, right through to late April. It’s now known as Boom Town in the Forrest – operating in a splendid park-like area at Forrest Estate Wines.  Boom Town beers. Photo / Destination Marlborough Add to your craft parade DNA Brewery, the Fancy Cow bar and restaurant, with sweeping views across the wreathed landscape. (Be sure to say Hi to the friendly Highland cow, Fanta.) DNA Brewery (Dave and Ant) was established by legendary brewer Dave Nicholls and creative oenologist, Ant Moore.  Dave is one of the New Zealand craft scene’s pioneers. He told me that he first started brewing as a 14 year old! His classic beer styles are faultlessly divine. I particularly enjoyed DNA’s Azacca Hazy Pale - bursting with passionfruit, while his Irish Red Ale is very malt forward with sweet toffee characters.     Just off Rapaura Road, on Jackson Road, pay a visit to the leafy, lawned surrounds of Moa Brewery. Open Thursday through Sunday, it’s a wonderful venue and the food trucks accentuate the ambience during the warmer months. Now entering its fourth decade, what I particularly like about their range is that they have kept their products affordable, accessible and sessionable, while also switching up their repertoire. A stellar example of that is their Apple & Rhubarb Cider. Exuding a seductive red hue, the delicate tart flavour of this crisp cider sings happy summer days. It’s like the cider equivalent of a glass of rosé. Hazy IPA’s are all the rage in New Zealand and Moa’s sessionable hazy, at 4.9% alcohol, is the easy-drinking Motueka Hazy IPA.  I also enjoyed a great gin tasting at the Vines Village, sampling the delights of Elemental Distillers in the Roots Gin Shack. Founded by Ben Leggett and Simon Kelly this craft distillery delivers premium craft spirits and liqueurs with complete transparency of all ingredients, processes and production, from root to cup. Garnering accolades aplenty, Roots Marlborough Dry Gin is a crisp and robust ‘London Dry’ style gin, bottled at a bold 45% alcohol by volume. It was crowned ‘World’s Best Gin’ at the 2023 World Gin Awards. I met up with Ben at the recently opened Roots Gin Shack and Tasting Room, which is a wonderful venue, combined with a garden setting for leisurely indulgence. Enjoy a signature G&T or a negroni on tap, while the menu also spans seasonal cocktails, exquisite wines and curated selection beers. Gin Shack have mixed up the distillation game with some delicious fare from the talented team behind Boom Sauce, Spice & Barbeque. The mouth-watering small plates and irresistible snacks complement their gin creations. Definitely try their grapefruit and gin sorbet!  Roots Gin Shack eats and drinks. Photo / Roots Gin Shack While at Vines Village, extend your exploratory and check out the Cheese and Cheers venue. This charming operator showcases an extensive range of New Zealand craft whiskies, and international brands, paired with three matching cheeses and bread. Order up a whisky tasting flight, with assorted cheeses. Don’t mind if I do. For great evening dining in Blenheim, I’m a big fan of Franks Oyster Bar & Eatery. This buzzing Scott Street establishment, under the command of Sam Webb, has an old-school New York bar vibe, with lots of tiles and industrial light fixtures. Despite its name, Franks delivers so much more than Marlborough’s magnificent molluscs. Share plates run the gamut from Merino lamb shoulder and grilled zucchini to jerk chicken and venison tartare. Can’t choose? Plump for the Frank Eats option and celebrate the feast of curated flavours.   Where to stay? Scenic Hotel Marlborough enjoys a prime perch, gracing the edge of Seymour Square. Flawlessly maintained with resplendent flower beds and crowned with the war memorial clock tower, it’s my all-time favourite New Zealand town square. Not only is the Scenic Hotel Marlborough perfectly poised in the heart of town, but this stylish property features superb facilities including a spa, pool, sauna, restaurant and bar. You’ll enjoy superb service, free wifi, complimentary car parking, spacious air-conditioned guestrooms with flat-screen SKY TV and super-comfy beds, swathed in their signature Kiwi-made wool and down bedding. www.scenichotelgroup.co.nz  Scenic Hotel Marlborough exterior. Photo / Scenic Hotels Mike Yardley is our resident traveller on Jack Tame Saturday Mornings.  Sat, 18 Jan 2025 00:25:02 Z /lifestyle/travel/man-pees-on-sleeping-passenger-gets-banned-by-united-airlines/ /lifestyle/travel/man-pees-on-sleeping-passenger-gets-banned-by-united-airlines/ A man who allegedly urinated on a sleeping passenger on a United Airlines flight has been banned by the airline.  On December 27, United Airlines flight UA189 took off from San Francisco International Airport and headed to Manilla, Philippines.  SFGate first reported that four hours into the flight an unidentified man left his seat and started urinating on Jerome Gutierrez, who was sleeping in business class.  Gutierrez, sitting in his seat with clothes soaking, only realised what had happened after the man had finished urinating.  “He was asleep and buckled in and was surprised when he looked at the man and thought he was dreaming,” Gutierrez’s stepdaughter Nicole Cornell told SFGate.  “Jerome realised he was soaked from his stomach down in that man’s urine.”  According to Cornell, the flight attendants feared a violent confrontation if Gutierrez approached the man and asked him not to. They also provided him with pyjamas to change into.  Speaking to SFGate, a United Airlines spokesperson confirmed there was “a passenger disturbance” on the flight and they have “banned this passenger” after police arrived to meet him in Manila.  Cornell added that the man apologised and “begged them not to press charges”.  It is unclear as to why the man left his seat to urinate on Gutierrez.  It’s not the first time passengers have been impacted by pee-antics on planes.  Last January, two Kiwis successfully battled Qantas for a refund of their flights after claiming their plane seats were wet with a previous passenger’s urine.  Issues began when the Wellington-based couple took their seats on a Bangkok to Sydney flight and one placed his Qantas pillow, along with other belongings on the floor, under the seat in front of him.  When he picked the pillow up again, it was “wet and stained on one side”.  In December 2023, an Air New Zealand passenger was fined after urinating in a cup after landing at Sydney Airport.  Wed, 15 Jan 2025 22:48:43 Z /lifestyle/travel/british-airways-crew-member-accidentally-deploys-emergency-slide-costing-airline-more-than-200-000/ /lifestyle/travel/british-airways-crew-member-accidentally-deploys-emergency-slide-costing-airline-more-than-200-000/ A British Airways crew member accidentally deployed the aircraft’s emergency slide, delaying hundreds of passengers for hours.  On Monday, a British Airways flight from London’s Heathrow Airport to Brussels was being prepared for service when the incident occurred.  No passengers were on board at the time, although they were delayed around three hours after the Airbus A320 was taken out of service and a new aircraft was arranged to take them to Brussels.  The blunder was first reported by the Sun, which said the incident was likely to have cost the airline £100,000 ($218,034).  A source told the Sun: “The crew member wasn’t thinking and made the most basic of errors by deploying the emergency slide while on the ground at Heathrow.  “It’s a minimum £100,000 mistake and knocked out services for the rest of the day.  “This error is not easy to achieve.”  In a statement to the Sun, BA said: “We apologised to customers for the delay and our teams worked hard to arrange a replacement aircraft so customers were able to travel with us as planned.”  Footage of the incident showed emergency services stationed by the aircraft which had the inflatable slide extending from the fuselage.  According to Airbus' safety magazine, Safety First, one way of deploying a slide on an A320 Family aircraft requires removing a safety pin, moving a lever into the armed position, and then opening the door to trigger deployment.  Accidental emergency door activations are very costly for airlines. Rectifying it involves repacking and safety checks by engineers.  An unintentionally activated emergency slide that is attached to an air bridge can cause the door to be ripped off and block exits, taking planes and docking bays out of service.  Last February, a British Airways pilot was reportedly stood down after accidentally triggering the emergency exit on a busy A320.  A 22-year-old was piloting a service that had arrived from the Czech Republic at Heathrow Airport for a quick turnaround to Bucharest, reported the Sun.  The error allegedly cost the airline £50,000 ($100,000) and a new rubber slide.  Tue, 14 Jan 2025 23:16:53 Z /lifestyle/travel/what-are-the-brown-signs-for-tourist-destinations-in-new-zealand/ /lifestyle/travel/what-are-the-brown-signs-for-tourist-destinations-in-new-zealand/ Blue, green, white, red and yellow; New Zealand’s roads feature signs in many different colours but why are some brown? Sarah Pollok investigates.  This deep dive into New Zealand’s brown tourist signs began as most investigations do, with a question.  “I wonder who decides what tourist attractions get those brown signs,” my sister said as we zoomed through Rotorua on State Highway 5 several weeks ago. Different from the bright blue and white signs, which point to tourist information spots, these brown signs are spread throughout the country. Many point visitors to cultural or geographic points of interest but also to wineries and hot spring spas, museums and hotels.  So, how does a company get these large signs often seen on state highways around New Zealand? By meeting a very specific set of criteria.  What are brown tourist signs?  All one wishes to know about tourist signs can be found in a delightful little read titled “NZ Transport Agency Traffic Control Devices Manual Part 2: Direction, Service and General Guide Signs”.  To save you the trouble, the document states that, like any traffic sign, tourist signs are used to direct people, particularly visitors unfamiliar with the area who are seeking tourist attractions.  There are two categories of brown signs, touring routes (like the Southern Scenic Route), and tourist features. The latter includes geographical features, historical markers and scenic lookouts as well as tourist establishments and clusters of commercially operated enterprises (like wineries).  A tourist sign for Twin Coast Discovery on the road to Tutukaka. Photo / John Stone  “For traffic sign purposes, tourist establishments are commercially operated enterprises catering mainly for tourists. They must be of genuine interest to tourists and have some interpretive value such as guided tours or working demonstrations,” the manual states.  Examples of such establishments include: “museums, historic homes and gardens, tourist farms, fauna parks and zoos, wineries, craft centres, potteries and art galleries, theme parks and adventure sports facilities”.  How can a business get a brown tourist sign?  To “justify permanent brown tourist signs” an establishment must first meet 15 specific criteria.  It must have tourism as a core business activity, regularly provide a tourism experience beyond retail and have relevant Government and council licences to operate as a tourist facility.  There are also a lot of specifics about hours and accessibility. It must be open to the public without prior booking during opening hours (which must cover a minimum of seven hours), be open on the weekends and at least three other weekdays as well as public and school holidays.  For a coveted brown sign, you must also provide clean toilets and all-weather, off-street parking (with disabled options for both). You’ll also need space for coaches and other large vehicles if they’re expected.  Information about the days and hours of opening and prices must be clearly displayed at the establishment and at nearby and regional visitor information centres.  You’ll also need to prove you promote the location and directions to non-local visitors via digital and print media.  Oh, and your visitor contact staff must be “appropriately trained” and provide “high standards of customer service”. There are then additional criteria depending on the type of attraction, such as zoo, art gallery, botanical garden or brewery, which are specific to that industry.  If you pass all the checks, your approval is valid for five years and you must foot the bill for a sign to be built, installed and replaced if ever necessary. Once complete, you’re prohibited from altering the sign, which is built to painfully exact specifications.  Tourist signs must have white borders and lettering on a specific shade of brown background in one of two sizes (depending on how fast vehicles will drive past it) and be fully reflectorised.  A tourist sign for Ruapekapeka Historic Reserve. Photo / Michael Cunningham  As for symbols, “a lack of nationally recognised tourist symbols” means you’ll typically only see two; a bunch of grapes to signal vineyards or wineries and a house with a mangopore symbol to mark Historic Places Trust properties. “Consideration will be given to other symbols,” the manual adds.  There are a dizzying number of rules specifying exactly how many signs an attraction can have and where they can be. For example, an “advance sign” (which often reads like “Winery TURN RIGHT 300m”) can be used if “the tourist facility is located in an urban fringe area where 85th percentile traffic speeds exceed 75km/h”.  New Zealand isn’t the only country with cocoa-coloured signage. Around the world, the combination of brown and white is used to signify tourist spots.  France was allegedly the first country to introduce them in the mid-1970s and today you can find them in countries such as Italy, Germany, Great Britain, the US and Australia.  Tue, 14 Jan 2025 19:58:33 Z /lifestyle/travel/passengers-on-air-new-zealand-flight-from-san-francisco-to-auckland-experience-christmas-in-the-sky/ /lifestyle/travel/passengers-on-air-new-zealand-flight-from-san-francisco-to-auckland-experience-christmas-in-the-sky/ Travellers heading to New Zealand may have missed Christmas Day with their friends and families, but those on board an Air New Zealand flight from San Francisco to Auckland were treated to a bit of festive fun at 30,000 feet. Flying from the United States to New Zealand means crossing the dateline, with those on board effectively losing a day. If you left the US on December 24, you’d arrive in Aotearoa on December 26, missing Christmas on the ground. Having to skip a major holiday and time with loved ones is a downside to flying over the holiday period, but Air New Zealand decided to surprise passengers who had departed San Francisco on its NZ7 flight with an in-flight Christmas celebration. The 200-plus passengers were treated to a holiday menu – turkey, sweet potato mash and a yule log for dessert – as well as novelties like plane-shaped Christmas cookies and tree decorations. The cabin was illuminated with a festive light display. “Every detail was designed to bring the magic of Christmas to life, even at 30,000 feet,” Air New Zealand chief executive Greg Foran said. “It’s our way of spreading some Air New Zealand manaaki [hospitality] to one lucky flight full of festive travellers this year. What a terrific way to celebrate Christmas in the skies.” The company had teased a treat may be in store for some travellers via its Christmas campaign video, released earlier this month. There are other festive touches on the airline’s flights during December, including red-and-white incarnations of the carrier’s iconic lollies. “The new flavour tastes just like a Christmas candy cane, bringing some Christmas magic to fliers,” explained Kylie McGillivray-Brown, Air New Zealand general manager of customer experience. “It’s one way we’re saying Meri Kirihimete to our passengers as they travel around the world this Christmas season.” After their Christmas in the sky and a 12-hour flight, NZ7 passengers landed at Auckland International Airport at 5am on December 26, and though there’s a wet day forecast for Boxing Day and Auckland is at risk of experiencing thunderstorms, many will still be glad to be home. Thu, 26 Dec 2024 00:48:21 Z /lifestyle/nz-supermarkets-are-closed-christmas-day-so-one-chain-is-trying-vending-machines/ /lifestyle/nz-supermarkets-are-closed-christmas-day-so-one-chain-is-trying-vending-machines/ As Kiwis brave the nation’s busy supermarkets on Christmas Eve to do their final shop before doors close tonight, one well-known retailer has turned to vending machines as an option for December 25. New World has installed “Xmas SOS vending machines” at three of its supermarkets around the country, designed as a solution for shoppers needing to make last-minute purchases on Christmas Day, when supermarkets will be shut for the public holiday. Located in Auckland (New World Stonefields), Wellington (New World Wellington City), and Christchurch (New World Durham St), the machines will be operating on Christmas Day, with Stonefields also in action on Boxing Day. Each will be stocked with a product selection tailored to New Zealand’s Christmas tastes and needs – things like lemons, cheese and chocolate, ingredients to whip up Kiwi onion dip, as well as cream and butter. An edited range of groceries are available from the vending machines, all common last-minute purchases before Christmas. Photo / Michael Craig With dairy products and chocolate being vulnerable to heat, some Kiwi Facebook users expressed their concern, questioning whether the machines were refrigerated. A New World spokesperson confirmed to the Herald that vending machines were chilled between 3C to 6C. Also catering to need are the proceeds from the initiative, which will be donated to the City Missions in the Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. TeTāpui Atawhai Auckland City Mission prepared 7000 food parcels during December, and the festive period is one of their busiest times of the year, with a spike in people needing assistance. Auckland City Mission food boxes included pantry staples, meals and some festive food for Christmas Day. The Mission received a $10,000 grant from Auckland Airport this Christmas. Photo / Greg Bowker On Christmas Day the Mission will be hosting its longstanding sit-down lunch service. Supermarkets will be closed. December 25 is a restricted trading day in New Zealand so New World, Woolworths and Pak’nSave’s doors will be shut. Some Four Square stores around the country will be open. Petrol stations and dairies can operate, as can eateries selling takeaway food, so there are some options if you find yourself needing to buy food on Christmas Day. Many Kiwi households have been navigating tight budgets and cost of living pressures this year. Foodbanks have seen increasing demand, and the 2024 holiday period has seen charity appeals around the country. Twenty families received hundreds of dollars of groceries from donations at Tauranga Crossing shopping centre. In Rotorua there was a Fill the Bus campaign, and Scope Cafe’s food fundraiser drew record donations. On December 25 Auckland’s Satya restaurant will be serving free Christmas lunch to people in need. Tue, 24 Dec 2024 03:10:18 Z /lifestyle/technology/norton-financial-monitoring-yet-another-string-in-360s-bow/ /lifestyle/technology/norton-financial-monitoring-yet-another-string-in-360s-bow/ At the risk of sounding a bit grinchy, this time of year is when you're at greatest risk of online crime. Every online shopping transaction is an opportunity for bad actors to finagle their way into your cyber affairs, potentially swooping in to grab your personal details, security codes, bank logins and credit card information. It's already a stressful time for many people and the last thing you need is discover some lowlife has snuck in and drained your account. Or even worse, discovering someone close to you - perhaps an elderly or vulnerable relative - hasn't quite got the digital literacy to look out for suspicious activity online. In these cases, their stress can become your stress pretty quickly. Now Norton has come up with a way to take some of that holiday stress away. Financial Monitoring is a new feature under the Identity Protection section of any Norton 360 Platinum or Norton 360 Advanced subscription. Once you're subscribed, you'll find the Financial Monitoring tab in the Identity Protection section. Here you can link to your bank accounts, credit cards, investments and loans. Ironically, I found the setup process kind of scary. Although I knew (and double-checked) I had logged in to my account via the official Norton website, these days I'm always pretty reluctant to input sensitive information like bank logins. You can bet I was keeping a close eye on my accounts on another screen just to make sure this wasn't some kind of extremely elaborate scam. I'm not sure how Norton could get around this nervousness - how the process of linking to your most critical financial details could feel safer. However, in the interests of exploring the experience on your behalf, Dear Reader, I took the plunge and carried on. All major New Zealand banks and lending institutions seemed to be represented and I had no issue completing the process. Once I had, I could then access a summary of my account activity from any device I had installed Norton 360 Advanced onto. Although this part of proceedings isn't that different from logging onto a specific banking app, if you have multiple dealings with a collection of different financial institutions, this is certainly a great way to see all the comings and goings at a glance. But the real peace of mind comes from the notifications Norton sends out if it detects any unusual activity.  I'm no big-noter so it's not every day I go out and make multi-hundred dollar purchases. While you can set the threshold for an "unusual transaction" wherever you want, I decided to go for the lowest possible option, $100 for cash withdrawals, purchases and transfers. Sure enough, when I spent an eye-watering amount at the supermarket yesterday, doing a pre-Christmas shop, I was notified shortly after about my suspicious purchase. At this point you can choose to ignore it or follow up if you don't recognise the transaction. And just like that I suddenly had the confidence to shop online without being quite so paranoid. Given the angry, shouting woman at the self-service checkout next to me at the supermarket, it might be time to give online grocery shopping a go. The downside is there's a bit of a delay between the transaction and the notification - but I assume that's actually the delay between me making the purchase and the digital funds literally changing hands. We've all seen how that process can sometimes take days for no explicable reason. So taking that into account (excuse the pun) I'm now pretty optimistic Norton's Financial Monitoring service will be able to alert me to anything weird before I wake up one morning to discover I'm now a another penniless victim of online fraud. That certainly wouldn't be ideal Christmas morning - or any other morning for that matter. It's also potentially a fantastic way to prevent the people close to you - be they elderly or just starting out - making a naïve mistake that could cost hundreds, if not thousands. I've trusted Norton to protect my devices and my identity for years and it hasn't let me down yet. Now it's nice to know Norton is standing outside my virtual bank vault for extra security as well.      Click here for more information on Norton 360 Advanced. Sat, 21 Dec 2024 06:02:42 Z /lifestyle/travel/mike-yardley-elevate-your-stay-in-anaheim/ /lifestyle/travel/mike-yardley-elevate-your-stay-in-anaheim/ As home base for Mickey Mouse, Anaheim has been a Kiwi holiday favourite for decades. But the Orange County tourist magnet has been busy revving up its accommodation offerings of late. If your idea of memory-making vacations entails indulging in luxury hotel stays, Anaheim has recently unveiled and opened some alluring new options. I recently bedded down in two of the shiny new kids on the block – both of which I highly recommend! First up, JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort. Adjacent to Anaheim Garden Walk, this splendid hotel embodies the brand’s fresh approach it is taking with all their properties, amenities, design, ambience, and distinctive dining experiences. From their impeccably warm and helpful staff to the restful and fun in-house experience, this hotel is a stand-out. Exterior of JW Marriott Anaheim Resort. The entrance is grand with sprawling floor-to-ceiling light and decorative art fixtures in earth tones that exude a spa-like feel. From the mighty goddess-like sculpture that greets you upon entry to the serenity garden with edible produce and florals, unlike the steely sterility of corporate-style hotels, this property projects a calming, engaging vibe. The Secret Butterfly Garden and Digital Forest is a great innovation, powered by augmented reality. It will stimulate curious minds. The generously sized pool, with loungers and cabanas is just the spot to kick back after an exhausting day playing tourist. I stayed in a Deluxe Room with a theme park view, loaded with amenities including a bath tub, refrigerator, desk, large TV and a plush king size bed. The décor is modern and sleek with artful shades to block out the sun, if you’re hankering a siesta. Sleek linens, down comforters, and soundproof windows help to ensure uninterrupted sleep. Pamper yourself further with access to the Executive Lounge, complete with complimentary refreshments and bites, a wraparound balcony and a panoramic view of the city. A buffet-style breakfast can be enjoyed here, while another great spot to fuel up for the day is at Tocca Ferro. They serve up a cranking breakfast, while later in the day, it’s a go-to for hand-cut steaks, fresh hand-rolled pastas and ocean-fresh seafood. Pool deck, JW Marriott Rooftop bars remain very on-trend in Southern California and at the JW Marriott, the cherry on top is Parkestry. This is the tallest of the Anaheim rooftops, exuding garden party vibes as soon as you step out of the elevator. The plush seating and fire pits add to the fun social vibe. Stay late for a sublime perspective on the Disneyland fireworks. The craft cocktails are divine – order up a Raspberry Revelry, particularly if you’re partial to vodka. And if you’re peckish, the Smash Burger Sliders will slide down with a smile. Their bourbon cocktails are also superb. Try a Midnight Old Fashioned which consists of Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Averna Amaro and Cocoa Bitters. Pair it with their dessert staple - the Triple Chocolate Mousse, a triumph of Raspberry Coulis, Seasonal Berries & Crushed Smoked Almond. That was decadence personified. www.marriott.com Pool space at the Viv hotel. Another recent arrival to Anaheim’s accommodation scene is The Viv Hotel. If you like a hotel stay served with sophistication, excitement and a touch of whimsy – this is the place for you. With its swanky atmosphere, faultless service and prime location, The Viv raises the bar on distinctive hospitality. In a city renowned for enchantment and excitement, it’s the chic ambience, playful spirit and exceptional customer service that really impressed me. Entering The Viv Hotel, the lobby exudes stimulating contemporary luxury and avant-garde design, with sleek furnishings and artful décor. Guestrooms present as spacious sanctuaries adorned with creative artwork and subtle Disney motifs. I often found myself drawn to the sprawling views of the Anaheim skyline, out my floor-to-ceiling window. With a soothing colour palette and plush seating areas, accommodations serve as havens of comfort. Bathrooms are spacious sanctuaries with rainfall showers and upscale toiletries. There’s two pool areas at The Viv, including the adults-only rooftop pool. However, the lagoon-style below on the ground floor is far less crowded throughout the day, when the kids are at Disneyland! There’s a variety of dining venues, but once again, it’s the rooftop that is the sweetest seduction. Top of the V is the rooftop bar and restaurant - an elevated perch for dreamy Californian sunsets and the nightly fireworks at Disneyland. This dining destination accentuates the experience with a menu that matches the panoramic views. Swooned over for their sangria selections and Basque Country culinary traditions, I sunk into their Labios Riojia Sangria, a heart-warming concoction of red wine, peach brandy, zinfandel port, lillet and grenadine. Pair that with some beautifully executed pintxos, like patatas bravas and garlic shrimps. The jamon serrano croquettes with bechamel are melt-in-your-mouth magnificent. They are creamy on the inside yet perfectly crisp on the outside. Then there are dishes like the Spicy Salami Pizza and Truffle Veal Ragu, or the Wagyu NY Strip Steak. The culinary journey is as ravishing as the vistas. Top of the V is undeniably the hotel's crowning jewel, which must be savoured, whether you’re staying in-house or not. https://thevivhotelanaheim.com I flew from Auckland to Los Angeles with Delta Air Lines. As the airport’s number one global carrier, Delta Air Lines offers nearly 160 peak-day departures out of LAX to nearly 60 domestic and international locations. For extra-comfort, take the step up to Delta Premium Select. With more room to stretch out and premium amenities designed with your wellbeing in mind, including exclusively designed menus, touchdown in LA from the overnight flight feeling refreshed and relaxed. And when flying in Premium Select, you’ll also enjoy accelerated check-in, security and baggage service, plus priority boarding. For best flights, fares and seats to suit, head to www.delta.com Mike Yardley is our resident traveller on Jack Tame Saturday Mornings. Thu, 19 Dec 2024 22:56:59 Z /lifestyle/travel/mike-yardley-kiwi-summer-holiday-hits/ /lifestyle/travel/mike-yardley-kiwi-summer-holiday-hits/ The great New Zealand summer calendar is liberally sprinkled with some guaranteed seasonal hits to add a bucketload of fun to your family holiday. I’ve rounded up a selection of signature events and exhibitions, strung across the nation, that you may well want to thread into your domestic vacation plans this summer.  String Auckland and January into the same sentence and those words are synonymous with the tennis, the ASB Classic, at Stanley St. But there’s another prime-time sporting spectacle waiting in the wings – SailGP. The long-awaited SailGP Auckland debut promises high-octane racing action in front of some of the world's most passionate fans on 18 and 19 January, off Wynyard Point. Elevated allocated Grandstand seating in the shoreside Race Stadium ensures fans are close enough to smell the salt as the high-tech, high-speed flying F50s do battle just metres from downtown Auckland on the Waitematā Harbour. Back hometown heroes the Black Foils led by local legends Peter Burling and Blair Tuke while enjoying live race commentary from a dedicated MC and post-racing entertainment for an unforgettable racing experience. Tickets are available. https://www.aucklandnz.com/events/sailgp-auckland    For something completely different in Auckland - Dinosaurs of Patagonia. Dinosaurs of Patagonia is a world-class, highly successful exhibition designed for science museums. Auckland was not initially included in the world tour, because Patagotitan, the latest dinosaur ever found, was too big for the preferred venues. However, a last-minute change saw the Logan Campbell Centre adapted so that the exhibition could be housed there. Featuring life-size casts of Southern Hemisphere dinosaurs, the starring attraction is Patagotitan mayorum.  The world’s largest dinosaur weighs 70 tonnes and measures 38 meters—about the length of three school buses! The exhibition is on until January 30. https://www.aucklandnz.com/events/dinosaurs-of-patagonia    For more mighty species, head to the Auckland War Memorial Museum for this summer’s Sharks exhibition. It’s just opened, running until April. Created by the Australian Museum, Sharks invites you to explore the fascinating, and often misunderstood, world of sharks. Come face-to-face with life-sized scientifically accurate shark models, including one of the most famous and feared species of shark, the Great White Shark. Learn through artifacts and tactile displays; be immersed in a 3D interactive scan of a shark body; and see the world in a 360-degree view through the eyes of a Hammerhead Shark. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, a quarter of the world's sharks are threatened with extinction. Sharks presents the very latest information on conservation, sharks’ impact on oceans, and efforts to protect sharks  In Wellington, fashionistas will flock to Te Papa this summer. The museum will be the first venue to kick off the global tour of Vivienne Westwood & Jewellery. Designed and curated by the house of Vivienne Westwood and produced by Nomad Exhibitions, this touring exhibition dives into the extensive history of jewellery design and creation by the Vivienne Westwood house. From a stall in Portobello Road market, London in the 1970s and later incorporating costume jewellery as statement pieces within catwalk collections, the exhibition dives into the extensive history of Vivienne Westwood’s jewellery design and creation, across the decades. Staged at Te Papa for three months, it kicks off on January 17, 2025.  Not to be outdone, Dunedin has quite the exhibition this summer at Tūhura Otago Museum. It’s 2530, humans have left the planet, and a new world has risen! LEGO® Minifigures have taken over, building intricate civilisations in the artefacts left behind, each inspired by the objects they now call home. That’s the thrust of this immersive exhibition, RELICS: A New World Rises, created by Australian LEGO® Masters Jackson Harvey and Alex Towler. Among the relics, you’ll find a grandfather clock repurposed as a time machine, a cryonics facility tucked inside a vintage refrigerator, and a retro arcade that’s been transformed into a futuristic spaceport. After smashing ticket sales in Australia, RELICS: A New World Rises now lands in Otago for a limited time. This popular exhibition will inspire visitors of all ages to explore the world within a world, with an important message of sustainability woven through the stories and play. The exhibition is on until the end of April.  Photo / Supplied It might well be our favourite Kiwi summer headliner, the TSB Festival of Lights, which transforms New Plymouth’s Pukekura Park into a lavishly illuminated night-time wonderland. It opens December 21 and runs through to January 26, fusing arts, community and nature for five weeks of glowing summer evenings in the heart of Taranaki. Free to the public, the TSB Festival of Lights is New Zealand’s favourite, and longest-running light festival, with a host of massive lighting installations. Check out the lights from a different perspective – by boat! Eight ‘glow’ row boats are available to book each night. Over 150,000 people flock to the annual festival – half from out of town. www.festivaloflights.nz   I also have a major soft-spot for one of New Zealand’s oldest summer beach carnivals, the Caroline Bay Carnival. Timaru’s big bash celebrates its 114th outing this summer, running from Boxing Day for a fortnight, with a daily and nightly programme of family fun, live entertainment, fairground rides talent quests and competitions. There’s a timeless, down-home vibe to the carnival. Some say it’s a bit hokey. I think it’s as classic as Hokey Pokey. www.carolinebay.org.nz  Caroline Bay Carnival. Photo / Mike Yardley For a complete change of scenery, if you happen to find yourself on the wild West Coast in late January, make a date with Driftwood & Sand. Staged annually at Hokitika beach, this incredibly creative festival, transforms the beachscape, as participants compete to construct the most artistic, whimsical and wondrous sculptural pieces, washed up from the Tasman Sea. The size and audacity of some of the sculptures is outrageously good. The next festival is held from January 22-26. www.driftwoodandsand.co.nz   Towards the latter part of summer, wine buffs should make a date with the Marlborough Wine & Food Festival, New Zealand's longest-running wine and food festival, now in its fourth decade. It’s next outing is set down for February 8. Blenheim accommodation will book out, so lock in your in plans, pronto. www.marlboroughwinefestival.co.nz   Trip you way around the country with the low-fares leader. Jetstar’s domestic network encompasses Auckland, Queenstown, Dunedin, Christchurch and Wellington. When you book on www.Jetstar.com, you're guaranteed the lowest fare. With their Price Beat Guarantee, if you find a better fare online, they’ll beat it by 10% - and that includes Jetstar flights you find on other websites. As the low-fares leader, only pay  for you want or need by tailoring your inclusions on meals, baggage and seat selection. Christchurch to Auckland one-way fares start from $49. www.jetstar.com    Mike Yardley is our resident traveller on Jack Tame Saturday Mornings.  Wed, 18 Dec 2024 22:29:14 Z /lifestyle/kiwi-summer-treats-that-no-longer-exist-fruju-tropical-snow-snifters-strawberry-toppas-dessertalicious-and-more/ /lifestyle/kiwi-summer-treats-that-no-longer-exist-fruju-tropical-snow-snifters-strawberry-toppas-dessertalicious-and-more/ New Zealand has seen many of its iconic sweet treats discontinued over the years. Notable losses include Fruju Tropical Snow, Strawberry Toppas, and Pascall’s Snifters and Sparkles. Limited releases and grassroots campaigns have occasionally brought these treats back into the mainstream, highlighting their enduring popularity. It can be devastating to find out your favourite snack has been discontinued. How common is it, and what are some notable losses from New Zealand shelves and freezers? Tom Rose takes a trip down memory lane to look at the summer treats that have vanished over the years. New Zealanders share a sweet tooth and our confectionery creations show it – Pineapple Lumps, Jaffas and anything made by Whittaker’s have become a point of national pride. But while we can take credit for out-of-the-box creations, we can never seem to keep them around. Fruju Tropical Snow has been sorely missed since it was discontinued in the 2000s, inspiring Tip Top to run limited releases over the years. Grassroots efforts have seen Strawberry Toppas, Dessertalicious, and the grapefruit and lemon Fruju brought back from the dead with similar fanfare. This summer, Tip Top has released a range of new products, including Fruju Minis, while reintroducing the popular Cola Popsicle. But chief executive Ben Schurr understands Kiwis still lust over many of the brand’s old-school creations. Tropical Snows and Strawberry Toppas are a common request, Schurr told the Herald. But “while they won’t make a return this summer”, he said it was “possible they may make a return sometime in the future”. Schurr said the company has produced a “special one-off run” of the grapefruit and lemon Fruju, which “should be available in various stores around New Zealand”. There aren’t plans for other products such as the Paradiso and Hokey Bars in the pipeline, as Schurr said there’s little demand from consumers for their return. So as the summer holidays kick off, let’s look back at some long-lost treats from back in the day. Fruju Tropical Snow One of the greatest creations ever made by Kiwis, Fruju Tropical Snow is arguably the ultimate frozen summer treat. A trifecta of whipped pineapple, orange and lemon sorbet-style flavours, the ice cream-block combo was a constant favourite. While it was discontinued in 2009, Tropical Snow has been brought back several times for a limited run – most recently in 2020. Schurr said while the product won’t make a return this summer, it’s “always possible” it will in the future, so fingers crossed for another limited release. Tip Top's Fruju Tropical Snow. Licorice Allsorts Confectionery brand Mondelez, which owns Pascall, scrapped the coconut, liquorice and fruit-flavoured sweets from Pascall’s range in 2015, claiming consumers just weren’t buying them. Allsorts aren’t completely gone though – Levin company RJ’s has its own version in stores. Pascall's Licorice Allsorts. Wave Iced Coffee & Milk Frucor Suntory, the maker of V and h2go, quietly pulled these sweet milk drinks from shelves a few years back citing production issues, leaving many consumers fuming. “Please for the love of god bring these back. I’ll pay. Barista Bros doesn’t even come close,” wrote one Reddit user. An Auckland-based company employee of 35 years even said in a Q2 2024 report that the one Frucor drink he’d bring back was the Wave range. Frucor Suntory's Wave iced coffee drinks. Grapefruit and Lemon Fruju The grapefruit and lemon Fruju was not the most popular of the bunch, but it held a high level of respect among ice block enthusiasts and had gathered a loyal fanbase over the years. A sophisticated flavour that was bitter, sour and yet irresistibly sweet, the grapefruit and lemon Fruju offered something different to consumers that standard flavours such as orange or pineapple never could. Fruju’s alternative flavour started to be phased out in late 2022 and was confirmed to no longer be on the market in May 2023. It was given a limited release at the start of 2024 following constant inquiries from fans, and Schurr said they should still be available in some stores. If not, ask your local if they can sort some stock – we may have to wait a while longer for the next batch. Tip Top's Fruju Grapefruit & Lemon. Sparkles The fruit-flavoured candy once had a cult following in New Zealand society, with the ready-to-eat packs proving to be a popular 3pm pick-me-up from the dairy for office workers and schoolkids alike. Pascall binned Sparkles from its production line in 2008, which pushed devoted fans to stock up. That year, 20 packs of Sparkles would be found on Trade Me selling for $50 each – a worthy return for one savvy Kiwi’s sweet investment. Two "vintage" packs of Pascall Sparkles. Photo / Trade Me Whittaker’s Toffee Milks Considered one of the brand’s three classics – alongside Peanut Slabs and K Bars – Whittaker’s announced Toffee Milks were being phased out in March. After nearly 100 years on the market, a spokesperson said that due to “production constraints”, Whittaker’s was unable to consistently make Toffee Milks and decided to cease production to prioritise its chocolate block variants. The company’s founder, J.H. Whittaker, once described Toffee Milks as “timeless”. At the time of the announcement, a Herald reader said they’d become “so hard to find”, and it was “sad to see another childhood favourite disappear”. Whittaker's Toffee Milks. Airwaves Chewing Gum Confectionery conglomerate Mars ended production of its Wrigley’s Airways gum in 2022, telling The Spinoff that its last stock was dispatched in June of that year. Mars Inc's Airwaves chewing gum. Dessertalicious Dessertalicious was ahead of its time - a two-litre tub consisting of honeycomb ice cream, sponge filling and a healthy dose of chocolate mousse on top. In the 2000s, the Tip Top ice cream flavour disappeared almost overnight, and Kiwis were so distraught that a petition was organised to try to bring it back. The company said in 2017 that it no longer has the machine to produce the flavour. While the ice cream makers released a reimagined version of Dessertalicious for its Crave range in 2022, this one didn’t quite taste the same and lacked its iconic layers. The original Dessertalicious tub alongside the "remixed" flavour. Photo / Tip Top, Facebook Tangy Fruits The small, round, fruit-flavoured lollies were a 2000s staple. The tub of sweets was unique for Pascall, retailing in colourful 160g containers. Moviegoers loved them, and workers recall theatre floors being riddled with them (mostly green) during clean-up. Tangy Fruits met their demise in 2008, with Pascall ceasing production over a supposed drop in consumer demand. Pascall Tangy Fruits. Peach Fruit Bursts The peach flavour was removed from Fruit Burst packets in the early to mid-2010s, causing strife among the tangy fruit flavour lovers. Pascall tried to redeem itself by introducing Peach Lumps inspired by the Fruit Burst flavour, but for many fans, it just didn’t hit the same. Pascall Fruit Burst. Monkey Business Monkey Business came at a time when Tip Top peaked in its tub creations. It consisted of chocolate and banana ice cream swirled together with a generous serving of chocolate chips, and the flavour pairing was considered outrageous (or fabulous, depending on your taste) for its time. The banana split-like flavour was first shrunk into 1.6-litre tubs before it started disappearing altogether in the early 2010s. Despite years of searching for a dupe, I’ve never been able to find anything quite like it. Tip Top's Monkey Business. Snifters Yet another Kiwi favourite to be banished to the past, Snifters were snuffed by Pascall in 2009 – the last of the “big three” (alongside Tangy Fruits and Sparkles) to face the cut. Like the others, Pascall’s parent company Cadbury blamed Snifters' demise on a drop in consumer demand. Yet many people felt hard done by, and a wave of protests took hold across the country in opposition to the decision. Since then, Cadbury released Pascall “Snifters Lumps” in 2020 and a Snifters chocolate in 2021. Pascall Snifters. Photo / Candy Critic Pods Mars discontinued its range of Pods in 2021, claiming it had to balance customer expectations with the needs of the business and could no longer manufacture them. The gooey snacks came in flavours such as Snickers, Mars, Twix and S’more and had a golden reputation among snack lovers, with some paying hundreds of dollars for a pack after they left shelves. In 2024, Arnott’s tried to fill the void with a new snack, Treaties, described as “next-gen Pods” that left consumers divided. Mars Pods. Strawberry Toppas A timeless jewel woven into the fabric of Aotearoa’s ice cream history, the Strawberry Toppa was one of Tip Top’s earliest creations. Launched in 1954, millions of these vanilla ice creams with strawberry shells would’ve been sold over the decades, bringing smiles to Kiwis’ faces across the country. Akin to a frozen strawberry milkshake, Tip Top phased out these classics at the turn of the century. Still, 140,000 people voted for its limited return in a 2014 campaign by the brand. Fans may get their wish in the future, with Schurr hinting the treats may make a return in the future. Tip Top's Strawberry Toppa. Zap Flavoured Milk Forget Primo. Forget Calci-Yum. Before the flavoured milk market became oversaturated with dozens of brands making the same four flavours, Aotearoa’s flavoured milk scene was dominated by Zap. Launched in the 1980s, the ultra heat-treated milk drinks came in all the classics alongside flavours such as Hokey Pokey and Just Jaffa. Zap ultra heat-treated milk drinks. Photo / Flickr / Steve Williams Crazy Joe These ice blocks were a mainstay product of Wall’s (now Streets) in 20th-century New Zealand. A simple flavoured ice block, cola was always a fan favourite and featured often in commercials, while raspberry and lemonade were also popular choices. Wall’s released a new Crazy Joe range in the 80s under its new ownership from Tip Top, which saw a mashup of colours and flavours called the prink, yellange, and blurple by fans. A blurple Crazy Joe wrapper from the 1980s. Photo / Flickr / Steve Williams Hokey Bars Ask someone who grew up in the 1980s what ice cream they miss most from their childhood and many of them will probably reply with the Hokey Bar. These bad boys had a “heart of gold” which continues to hold as much of a grip over millennials and Gen X as Vine does over Gen Z. The Hokey Bar's wrapper, circa late 1980s. Photo / Flickr / Steve Williams Lemon Squeeze Consumers recall fond memories of this forgotten favourite. The Tip Top lemon-flavoured ice block tube paved the way for other iterations that remain staples in Aotearoa’s sweet treat scene today, such as Calippos. Tip Top Lemon Squeeze. Photo / Flickr / Steve Williams Calippo Shots Speaking of Calippo, its little brother of the 90s was the perfect playground snack. Countless lemon-lime balls were shared with friends and caused a few tiffs in return. Streets' parent company Unilever had discontinued the ice balls worldwide by 2020. Calippo Shots. Paradiso A heavenly combination of vanilla ice cream wrapped in tropical fruit sorbet, Paradisos were a little higher up the price range. They catered to finer tastes with their perfect orange coat and “premium” ice cream inside, and would set you back about $6. Tip Top's Paradiso ice cream. Photo / NZ Ice Cream Association Polar Pops These ice blocks came in a multitude of flavours and were once praised as Aotearoa’s favourite ice block. You could choose anything from orange to watermelon to lolly pop, and there was even a lucky dip box for those who couldn’t decide. Unfortunately, these frozen creations disappeared from the freezers in the 2000s, yet Kiwis have craved them ever since. The 1995 Polar Pops range. Photo / Flickr / Steve Williams Tandem Ice Cream Sandwich Ice Cream Sandwich, anyone? The bar held vanilla ice cream sandwiched between two chocolate cookies, a simple, go-to creation. They haven’t been seen in decades, although Tip Top technically brought them back in 2017 (in half) when it released the Duo - one side ice cream sandwich, the other side chocolate-dipped. Paddle Pop Mud Puddle and Frozen Thick Shake Chocolate lovers, a moment please for the Paddle Pop Mud Puddle and its cheeky Chocolate Thick Shake brother. The frozen thickshake spoke for itself and came as an elevated treat from the dairy when compared to the normal Paddle Pops. On the other hand, the Mud Puddle took the treasured chocolate flavour and shrouded it in an extra layer of vanilla. You couldn’t go wrong with either of them! Paddle Pop Mud Puddle and Frozen Chocolate Thick Shake. Tom Rose is an Auckland-based digital producer and editorial assistant for the Herald who covers lifestyle, entertainment, and travel. Wed, 18 Dec 2024 02:56:16 Z /lifestyle/where-and-when-to-buy-your-christmas-ham-in-nz-and-what-to-look-out-for/ /lifestyle/where-and-when-to-buy-your-christmas-ham-in-nz-and-what-to-look-out-for/ It’s Kiwis' top choice for Christmas Day, so whether you want to make your showstopping glazed ham extra special or simply get the best one for your buck, Nikki Birrell shares her advice for choosing the right one for you. A perfectly cooked ham is the jewel of any Kiwi Christmas feast, but choosing the right one can feel like navigating a maze of labels and price points. From free-range to free-farmed, imported to locally sourced, the options can be overwhelming. Understanding the different types of ham New Zealand offers a variety of hams to suit ethical and taste preferences. Free-range ham comes from pigs that are born and raised outdoors with access to shelter and a natural environment throughout their lives. In contrast, free-farmed ham typically refers to pigs born outdoors but raised indoors after weaning, often in “eco-shelters”. These terms are not always clearly defined on labels, so it’s essential to ask questions and research brands to ensure they meet your expectations. For instance, Freedom Farms markets its hams as free-farmed, reflecting high animal welfare standards. While free-farmed does involve some time spent indoors, these conditions are designed to prioritise animal welfare, meeting robust ethical standards. Freedom Farms champagne ham. Photo / Freedom Farms Imported pork accounts for nearly two-thirds of the pork consumed in New Zealand, making an informed decision about your Christmas ham more important than ever. You can tell the country of origin by checking the packaging for a “100% New Zealand Pork” label, a statement confirming the ham is made from New Zealand pork, or by asking your retailer directly. New Zealand farmers uphold some of the highest animal welfare standards globally, ensuring quality products free from practices that are illegal here but permissible overseas. However, labelling can sometimes be misleading. “Some imported hams are processed and packaged locally, which can confuse consumers,” explains Brent Kleiss, chief executive of NZPork. “Current labelling rules allow prominent New Zealand branding on products made from imported pork, with the country of origin often noted only in small print. This misleads shoppers who want to support local farmers.” By choosing a ham made from 100% New Zealand pork, you’re guaranteed superior taste and texture while supporting local producers. Where and when to buy your ham Hams are widely available from supermarkets, specialty butchers and even directly from farms. Woody’s Free Range Farm and Farm Gate Produce offer direct-from-farm options, though they often sell out quickly due to limited supply. Waipawa Butchery, for example, has already sold out for this season. Freedom Farms hams, available through select retailers, are another excellent choice for those prioritising provenance and ethical farming practices and are much more widely available. Christmas hams are in high demand, and many popular options sell out well before December. To avoid disappointment, consider ordering from a butcher or direct from a farm earlier in the season in 2025. However, supermarkets should still have options much closer to the big day. A glazed ham by A Lady Butcher (Hana Miller Childs) using Farm Gate Produce's free-range heritage-breed pork. Photo / @aladybutcher What to look for Selecting the right ham comes down to several factors: Provenance: Prioritise hams with a 100% New Zealand Pork label or check the packaging carefully for clarity on origin. Size: Estimate about 300-500g of ham per person, depending on appetites and whether you want leftovers. Kleiss notes, “For larger gatherings, a bone-in ham often delivers better flavour, while a boneless ham is easier to carve and ideal for smaller groups.” Flavour and glaze: Decide whether you want a pre-glazed ham, one that comes with a glaze kit, or to create your own glaze recipe. The curing process and glaze recipe can significantly influence the final flavour. Price: Prices vary depending on size and quality. Supermarket hams can start at around $10 per kilogram for imported options, while premium New Zealand hams often cost well upwards of $15 per kilogram. When buying, look for a natural pinkish colour, a good layer of fat (essential for glazing), and check the size to ensure it fits in your oven and fridge. “A well-cured ham should have a rich flavour and a beautiful texture,” says Kleiss. Smoked raw ham from Westmere Butchery in Auckland. Photo / Westmere Butchery How to prepare and cook your ham Most hams in New Zealand are pre-cooked, whether smoked or unsmoked, meaning they only need to be warmed through. Proper glazing and baking, however, elevate the flavour and presentation. Preparation: Remove the skin, leaving the fat intact, and score the fat in a diamond pattern to help the glaze adhere. Reheating: Warm your ham at 160°C for 10-15 minutes per 500g, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 60°C. Glazing: Apply your glaze during the last 30-40 minutes of reheating, basting every 10 minutes for a caramelised finish. Marmalade glazed ham. Photo / Nicola Topping Making the most of leftovers After your feast, refrigerate leftover ham promptly. Store it in a ham bag or pillowcase soaked in water and vinegar to keep it moist. Properly stored, ham can last up to a week in the fridge. Leftovers are versatile, perfect for sandwiches, quiches or adding to summer salads. By reading the fine print, prioritising provenance and planning ahead, you can ensure your Christmas ham is a show-stopping centrepiece that delights your guests while supporting local farmers. Herald contributor Nikki Birrell has worked in food and travel publishing for nearly 20 years. From managing your kitchen to cutting costs, she’s shared some helpful advice recently, including how to make the perfect risotto, the secret to cooking dried beans and choosing the right pasta. Tue, 17 Dec 2024 00:33:59 Z /lifestyle/technology/jbl-partylight-beam-and-jbl-partylight-stick-pair-some-sight-with-your-sound/ /lifestyle/technology/jbl-partylight-beam-and-jbl-partylight-stick-pair-some-sight-with-your-sound/ When it comes to heritage brands in tech, JBL is right up there. Decade after decade, professionals and consumers alike have turned to JBL for fantastic sound solutions and in the age of portable and Bluetooth speakers, JBL has come to the party every time. Literally. While the resulting sound performance has always exceeded expectations, I don't think anyone ever bought a JBL PartyBox specifically for its dazzling light show.  Now, recognising it's fun to add a bit of light and colour to proceedings, JBL has taken things in a new direction. This is the first time I've reviewed any JBL device that doesn't play music. If the PartyLight Beam and PartyLight Stick are anything to go by, it certainly won't be the last. The first thing I love about these two devices is there's nothing particularly fiddly about them. The Stick couldn't be easier to assemble; you literally just twist and click the LED light tube into place on its stand, while the Beam requires no assembly at all. The Stick comes with a USB-C charging cable in the box but no wall charger, so it's assumed you'll already have one of those lying around. It'll take up to 3 hours to fully charge the 9.0Wh lithium-ion battery which should then give you about 8 hours of continuous use. Both lights are easy to pair, using the JBL PartyBox app. Although you don't actually need the app to use them, it is recommended you check for any firmware updates before you do. These updates take an annoyingly long time to download and install, presumably because you're only connected to your phone or tablet via bluetooth. Take my advice, don't try and install an update 5 minutes before your guests are due to arrive. Once that's over and done with though, the rest is easy. AFter you've plugged it in, the Beam is powered on by tilting it up to face your preferred direction. The Stick has a power button, which causes a section of colour to rise up its tube like a light-sabre, before briefly showing you how much charge is left with a white-on-black indication. Both Stick and Beam have built-in mics and using JBL's algorithm, they listen to whatever music's playing and react accordingly. The Stick creates all kinds of mesmerising effects, sending shafts of different colours up and down the tube at various speeds, while the Beam combines two different, extremely bright, rotating LED spotlights to project an infinite combination of colours and patterns onto your wall or ceiling. That's fun but it's a bit random - especially if you're using both devices together like I am for this review. Using the PartyBox app, you can customise the colours and patterns exactly the way you want but the real fireworks start when you add a JBL PartyBox into the equation. One caveat here; it'll need to be a relatively up-to-date PartyBox - because we're about to make use of the Auracast function. I've talked about Auracast in my recent JBL speaker reviews. It's the latest protocol JBL has adopted to link multiple speakers together so they can create a louder, more powerful sound system. The reason the new PartyLights also have an Auracast button is to connect and sync with a speaker like the PartyBox Stage 320 I reviewed back in May. These JBL speakers put on quite a cool light show of their own, although as I said in my introduction, it's kind of limited. Now, with a press of the Auracast button, not only will any PartyLight devices be in sync with each other, they'll also match what's happening behind the grille of the speaker (or speakers). This instantly makes your light show look far more professional, matching the tone and beat of the music with similar colours and effects. The Beam casts very bright patterns indeed, rated to light up a 40sq/m room with ease, while the Stick is uniquely designed to cast its effects in a full 360° array. And unlike the Beam, the Stick also has the advantage of being completely portable, so there's nothing stopping you taking the party outside - especially if you've paired it with a rechargeable speaker like the PartyBox Club 120 I used for this review. I've often talked about my disdain for pointless flashing lights on gadgets in the past - including perhaps the token light displays manufacturers like JBL insist on building into their speakers. However... By adding one or more devices from the new PartyLight range and syncing them up through Auracast, suddenly it all starts to make a lot more sense. The colours and patterns being projected by either the Beam or the Stick (or in my case, Beam combined with a pair of Sticks) now mimic the PartyBox speaker's display exactly. Unfortunately, despite how universally all JBL's Auracast speakers connect together, no matter what size or model, only the PartyBox speakers with Auracast will sync with the PartyLights and sadly, if you have an older, non-Auracast PartyBox, you'll just have to rely on the PartyLights' built-in microphones to put on the show for you. Either way these are a quick and easy way to bring a professional standard of lighting to your party - or perhaps even your gig if you're using a PartyBox or two as a P.A. What's more, they're durable, easy to move about and are pretty reasonably priced too. Why hire lights for your next function when JBL has come up with a fun, affordable solution you can own yourself?      Click here for more information and pricing on the JBL PartyLight Bean. Click here for more information and pricing on the JBL PartyLight Stick. Tue, 17 Dec 2024 00:12:58 Z /lifestyle/are-groceries-cheaper-in-australia-kiwi-man-moved-to-tears-after-family-supermarket-shop/ /lifestyle/are-groceries-cheaper-in-australia-kiwi-man-moved-to-tears-after-family-supermarket-shop/ THREE KEY FACTS  A study this year found New Zealand supermarkets were the most expensive for kitchen staples compared with the UK, Ireland and Australia.  Data showed a net migration loss of 54,700 New Zealand citizens in the September 2024 year: it’s estimated over half of these departures went to Australia.  A Kiwi man has gone viral on TikTok this week for candidly sharing his response to the differences in prices in Australia.  A man who relocated his family from New Zealand to Australia has admitted he “bawled [his] eyes out” after discovering how much cheaper the food and produce were compared with the prices in Aotearoa.  Taking to TikTok last weekend, @kingpeekay, who goes by the screenname King PK, candidly spoke of the emotional upheaval he experienced after completing his first grocery shop in Sydney.  “Day one in Australia and I’ve been so overwhelmed. I cried after I did the food shopping ... I bawled my eyes out,” he said in a video that has since been viewed almost 160,000 times.  He explained how he had often feared he wouldn’t be able to feed his family at home in Aotearoa, citing the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.  According to data released by Stats NZ last month, prices for grocery food have risen on an annual basis, driven by higher costs for olive oil, butter, and standard 2-litre milk. The annual rise was 2.5%, while fruit prices have risen by 8% over the past two years.  “In New Zealand there were moments when we thought we weren’t going to eat. If I’m being honest, I remember when my son would go and look for snacks in the cupboard and he’d be like, ‘Daddy, there’s nothing to eat, there’s no snacks', and I would get angry,” PK admitted in the video.  “Today I realised [I didn’t get angry] because he was hungry, or there [were] no snacks, it was because I felt that I wasn’t able to provide.”  @kingpeekay Day 1 in Australia. ♬ original sound - KingPK 🇳🇿 PK said he and his wife had gone to the discount grocery chain Aldi for their first family shop in Sydney and were shocked by the prices of kitchen staples such as eggs and noodles.  “I went shopping at Aldi’s today and a five-pack of Maggi noodles was [AU]$1.69 (NZ$1.86). A whole uncooked chicken was $4.99 (NZ$5.50). Eggs were $4 (NZ$4.40) ... the expensive eggs were $5.50 (NZ$6.07). It was even at the point my wife and I, we were speechless after we left that place.  “I honestly reckon the amount of shopping for food and stuff that we did, probably would’ve equalled $1000 in New Zealand. That’s not to say Australia’s better – I cried because I struggled in New Zealand, and I was doing all right by everybody’s standards.  “But after I did my shopping today, I was like, ‘Man, I feel for people over there [in New Zealand]’. It’s crazy to think that’s just normal. We were buzzing out because chicken nuggets are [AU]$2.50 (NZ$2.76) a pack – that’s crazy, it’s crazy living here. It’s only day one.”  Food prices in New Zealand increased 1.2% in the 12 months to October, maintaining the same increase as the 12 months to September 2024. Photo / 123rf  His video struck a chord with TikTok users on both sides of the ditch.  Some people in the comments of PK’s video argued food prices were also high in Australia, with one declaring: “NZ must be hella expensive because Aussie grocery prices are through the roof.”  “Are you shopping in an alternate universe? Because I live in Melbourne, Australia and I purchased the 1kg chicken nuggets by Steggles and on special it’s [AU]$10 a bag,” a third hit back, while a fourth added: “I went for holiday in Melbourne and it was just as expensive ... I’m glad to be in NZ.”  One wrote: “I’m happy for you but it’s pretty sad that you think our Aussie prices are cheap. I think most Aussies would say they are crazy high.”  Others agreed with PK and believed groceries were generally more affordable across the ditch, with one writing: “What I missed about Aussie – the cheap groceries.”  “I’m in NZ on holiday and the price of food is outrageous, $17.50 for a quarter watermelon. Blueberries $7 a punnet. But alcohol and junk food is cheap,” one user weighed in.  In September, the ABC reported that according to Choice research, a basket of Aldi groceries was AU$18 cheaper when compared with the same items sold at Coles and Woolworths, Australia’s two largest supermarket retailers.  Aldi does not display most of its prices online. In November, the supermarket chain’s managing director of national buying admitted the retailer’s outdated IT infrastructure was largely to blame for its inability to display price offerings.  At the time of writing, an Aldi limited-time special was 500g of fresh Tasmanian salmon fillets for AU$18.99, or AU$37.98 (NZ$41.91) per kilogram. At Woolworths New Zealand, a kilogram of salmon fillets would set you back between $44.50 and $59, while salmon fillets at New World were $44.69/kg.  Farmdale Full Cream UHT Milk (1 litre) at Aldi was AU$1.59 (NZ$1.75); Woolworths Standard UHT Milk (1 litre) was $2.19, or Meadow Fresh Farmhouse Full Cream Milk was $3.30 a litre. However, Pams Standard UHT Milk (1 litre) at Pak’nSave was $1.99.  The Australian grocery market is dominated by four main players: Woolworths, Coles, ALDI and Metcash (IGA). These retailers control more than 80% of the market, while Woolworths and Coles alone hold about 65%.  New Zealand’s grocery sector has been criticised for lack of competition. There are two key players in the industry: Foodstuffs (which owns New World, Pak’nSave and Four Square) and Australia’s Woolworths, formerly branded as Countdown. This year the Commerce Commission investigated the duopoly, finding no meaningful improvement in competition and increased retail margins.  Issued in September, the commission’s first annual grocery report noted New Zealanders were paying higher prices, were confused by specials and weren’t benefiting enough from loyalty schemes. In the year to June 2023, the average household was spending $214 a week on groceries, or about 13% of their total weekly budget, it said.  A study this year also determined a grocery shop in Australia, at least for supermarket staples, was cheaper than in New Zealand.  Australian researchers from Edith Cowan University compared the prices of common grocery items – fruit and vegetables, milk, cheese, chocolate, meat, bread, coffee and some toiletries – in leading supermarkets in Australia, the UK, Ireland and New Zealand.  The results, released in September, found New Zealand was the most expensive, with the cost ranging from $379-$454. Australia came in third at $359-$368. The UK had the lowest prices, with the cost of the groceries between $314-$329.  When adjusting for wages, the UK was still the cheapest and New Zealand remained the most expensive, although Ireland and Australia switched places.  Associate Professor Flavio Macau said at the time there were several reasons groceries were more expensive in New Zealand, including its isolation, relative exclusion from main global supply chain corridors, small population and heavy reliance on imports.  The comparison looked at the two largest supermarkets in each country: in New Zealand that meant Pak’n’Save and Woolworths, which have a 70% share of the market, and Coles and Woolworths in Australia.  Macau said when compared with their overseas counterparts, New Zealand supermarkets were underperforming.  “In New Zealand, it pays even more to do your homework and actively compare prices before shopping. Potentially, you need to build even more bridges between local producers and consumers as an important tool to fight the cost-of-living crisis.”  Mon, 16 Dec 2024 22:19:08 Z /lifestyle/video-of-teacher-aides-wheelchair-waka-for-cassius-goes-viral/ /lifestyle/video-of-teacher-aides-wheelchair-waka-for-cassius-goes-viral/ A Wairarapa mum’s video tribute to her son’s teacher aide has gone viral. Courtney Naera shared a video to TikTok of the ingenious costume that teacher aide Faith Traill made for her son Cassius for book-character day at Lakeview School in Masterton and says she makes life at school possible for her little boy. Ten-year-old Cassius (Rangitāne) was born with the brain disorder lissencephaly and Courtney and her husband Charlie were told that he was unlikely to make it past 2 years old. The rare condition means Cassius uses a wheelchair, lives with seizures, is non-verbal and needs constant help. Cassius Naera. Photo / Courtney Naera But at 10, he’s thriving as a key member of the community at Lakeview School in Masterton and “phenomenal” teacher aide Faith Traill has been with him from the start. “She always goes above and beyond,” mum-of-five Courtney Naera told the Herald, revealing how Traill had initially noticed how upset she became at finding ways to keep Cassius included and has stepped up every year since. “I think she noticed how upset I get sometimes or I’d just be stuck with how to include Cassius or what to do for him and they kind of just said, look, we’ll do it,” she said of the teacher aide and her husband Matt. “I can’t explain how grateful we are for them and what they do.” For this year’s costume day, the Traills constructed a waka for Cassius and, he waka eke noa, and paddled it with him across the school. The waka costume went viral. Photo / Courtney Naera The clever design uses Cassius' wheels to move his paddles as Traill steers − and the waka charted a course to the top of the TikTok charts as people around the world reacted to her heartwarming efforts. “Teachers like this make all the difference,” one said, as others called Traill a “true champion” and “beautiful human”. Naera said the costumes were only a small part of what Faith Traill does for the family, revealing she also provides respite care by taking Cassius for sleepovers. “They are just like the golden people,” she said of the Traills. Teacher aide Faith Traill with Cassius. Photo / Courtney Naera Naera shared some other costumes that the Traills had made for Cassius, including a tank and a train, which had been made to allow other children at Lakeview to join in. Naera said that Lakeview is “just amazing” for Cassius and other children supported by the Ongoing Resourcing Scheme (ORS). Cassius the train driver could take his mates for a ride with this costume. Photo / Courtney Naera “I think the way that the kids are included in the school benefits all the students because none of those kids look at Cassius and see that he’s different,” Naera said. “I mean, he’s one of the most popular kids at the school.” Cassius with his whānau. Photo / Courtney Naera She said the positive reaction to the video had “restored our faith in humanity”. As for Faith herself, Courtney Naera said the humble teacher aide did not want any credit. “She just said: ‘I hope that it inspires other teacher aides to think outside the square for the kids that they care for’. “She just hopes that the video would do that.” Chris Marriner is an Auckland-based journalist covering trending news and social media. He joined the Herald in 2003 and previously worked in the Herald’s visual team. Mon, 16 Dec 2024 01:46:41 Z /lifestyle/technology/blink-mini-2-and-blink-outdoor-4-dont-pay-too-much-for-home-security/ /lifestyle/technology/blink-mini-2-and-blink-outdoor-4-dont-pay-too-much-for-home-security/ When it comes to installing a security camera or two at your place, it's easy to get carried away. A high-quality, weather-proof camera can set you back hundreds. Then, once installed, all too often you'll be stung a second time with a subscription to keep accessing the more advanced features. Once you've spent all that money, maybe it would have been cheaper to let the burglars in and just take their pick. The good news is - especially at this time of year - you don't have to shell out top dollar for a reasonable home monitoring solution. From October this year, Amazon-owned Blink arrived in New Zealand in force with its latest devices, the Mini 2 and Outdoor 4. The Mini 4 offers the versatility of working either indoors or outside while the wireless Outdoor 4 promises up to two years use on a single pair of AA batteries. Both cameras are available in white or black and both are extremely compact, although obviously the Mini 2 is particularly tiny. This makes them a good solution for those of us who prefer a more subtle approach to home security in terms of aesthetics. If you want a big, bold, in-your-face camera that shouts, "Take your chances, crims! Can't you see you're being recorded?" these Bink cams might not be the answer. On the other hand, if you'd rather not have cameras detracting from the look of your lovely home, these little beauties can be easily tucked away somewhere less obtrusive. Both cameras come with equally petite mounts, which can be adapted for wall or ceiling installation. While these mounts are certainly versatile, they're pretty much entirely plastic and I wonder about durability over time - not that I've had any issues yet. My other concern is how the cameras simply snap onto the mount with a click. This makes for easy installation but presumably it would also make for easy theft if a baddie wanted to make off with your camera. Luckily, no video footage is stored on the devices themselves so at least the last image you got would be a closeup of the thief! Let's talk storage, while we're here. Just like most other brands, Blink makes you subscribe to a monthly plan if you want to use their cloud storage option. Videos are saved for 60 days and it's easy to watch and share them. However, unlike some of Blink's competitors, there's another option. The Outdoor 4 camera is boxed up with the Sync Module 2. As with many other smart home devices, instead of connecting directly to your Wi-Fi network, you use the Blink app to set up the Sync Module 2 first. This is very quick and easy and it then benefits you in three ways. Firstly, by locating the Sync Module 2 in your house, somewhere close to your outdoor cameras, you'll get improved connectivity, as Wi-Fi routers are often situated a long way away from outside, let alone where you want your cameras to be. Secondly, connecting several cameras through a module like this means less traffic on your home network overall, which should always be your goal. Thirdly - and this is the clincher - the Sync Module 2 has a USB-A slot to plug in an external storage drive. This means you can store your vids locally for free, even after the 30 day trial of the Blink subscription plan runs out. The crazy thing is, the module is absolutely tiny - so it's easily stashed away behind or under furniture. The Blink Mini 2 isn't bundled with a Sync Module and as such can just work as a standalone Wi-Fi camera - but if you're planning on using several or you want to take advantage of that local storage option, the Sync Module is the way to go and of course, you can buy them separately. Another optional extra you may want to consider is the Weather Resistant Power Adaptor - a four-metre cord (complete with cable tidies and installation screws) that's compatible with both the Mini 2 and the Outdoor 4, if you prefer to run it off the mains, rather than on battery. This is certainly a sturdy cable and the USB-C connection to the camera is impressively rubberised to keep any moisture out. However, because the USB-C slot on the camera is extra deep in order to accomodate the weather-proof plug, I found it very fiddly to push it in at just the right angle to ensure the USB-C part of the plug actually slid in. It took me several attempts and caused quite a bit of frustration when I kept checking the app only to discover the Mini 2 still wasn't powered up and ready for pairing. However, I got there in the end. In terms of operation, I found the cameras work in much the same way as most others I have tried. The app provides clear, wide angled footage from both cameras and the sound quality to be excellent. You also have the option to speak out of the cameras from your phone - scaring off undesirables or welcoming visitors perhaps. The Mini 2 features a surprisingly powerful LED floodlight. This can be triggered automatically or manually via the app and it means you'll get a clear, colour HD feed, even at night. Conversely, the Outdoor 4 reverts to black-and-white infrared after dark - still perfectly clear though. As you would expect, you can set up motion notifications to appear on your phone and being an Amazon-integrated product, you can view feeds from Blink cameras on Echo Show and Fire TV devices or set up other Alexa smart home routines to be fired off when either camera is activated. You can customise Motion Zones quite accurately or alternatively, set up Privacy Zones where the camera won't look. There are other features, apart from cloud storage, you can only utilise through a subscription plan. These include person detection, extended live viewing and what Blink calls "Moments" - which is a compilation of videos saved into one longer clip. Starting from NZ$5 a month, the Blink subs are similar to others out there but there are definitely savings to be made with the purchase price on the cameras themselves and their associated accessories. The Mini 2 and Outdoor 4 are easy to set up and generally speaking, they do the same job any other camera does, yet they're probably cheaper - especially when Amazon is having one of its frequent sales. I'm not 100% convinced of their durability long-term, although really the only thing I'm basing that on is the plasticky feel of the mounting hardware. I certainly haven't experienced any issues and thanks to the Sync Module 2, connectivity is first rate. If indeed the Outdoor 4 runs for two years on a single set of batteries, that alone has gotta be worth a try.      Click here for more information and pricing on the blink mini 2. Click here for more information and priocing on the blink outdoor 4. Mon, 16 Dec 2024 01:34:57 Z /lifestyle/travel/mike-yardley-street-treats-in-dunedin/ /lifestyle/travel/mike-yardley-street-treats-in-dunedin/ Dunedin has very strong bones. There’s a strength and solidity to the streetscape, landmarked with stately stone central city buildings with echoes of the Otago goldrush. The sprawling trove of Victorian and Edwardian confections span a variety of architectural styles, from neo-Gothic and Renaissance-style to surprising flourishes of Art Deco, strolling central Dunedin is a sweet way to savour the storied, understated grandeur of its urban character and texture. The neo-Gothic glory of Dunedin Railway Station is the undisputed poster child, but gaze up at the building facades as you tootle around town and the sprawling heritage procession is a feast for the eyes. After three years of hard slog and a fair slab of controversy, Dunedin’s most significant infrastructure project in decades, the George Street makeover was recently completed. Spurred on by the need to replace aging water pipes, the $100m project was completed earlier this year on one of the country’s oldest retail streets. It is an absolute joy to shop, nosh and linger in the city’s pre-eminent retail area. The monumental revitalisation is undeniably pedestrian-centric, featuring new paving, inviting street furniture, fabulous plantings, a kerbside playground, carnival lighting and public art. I particularly loved strolling the street and admiring the ditties etched into the pavers, showcasing local luminaries, like poet Hone Tuwhare, writer Janet Frame, and some lyrics by seminal Dunedin band, The Clean. It is also so much fun to shop in a properly functioning CDB shopping district, pulsing with vitality. Unlike our other major cities, Dunedin hasn’t been hollowed out with suburban malls. The Meridian Mall, Wall Street and Golden Centre are all great CBD retail-magnets, luring the masses to shop on George St. Photo / Mike Yardley Another equally alluring central city neighbourhood well worth delving into is the Warehouse Precinct, wedged between Queens Gardens and Police Street. Just a few blocks south of the Octagon, this historic district was once the powerhouse of Dunedin’s commercial and industrial growth, on the back of the gold rush. Over the past decade, the revitalised district has been repurposed as a hip foodie haven, interspersed with trendy offices and apartments and a head-swirling array of street art. The precinct’s small collection of streets are photogenic joy to free-roam, with Vogel Street boasting some of the area’s finest features. The biggest concentration of Dunedin’s street art can be found here with building owners donating their wall space as a canvas for international and domestic street artists to splash and bedazzle. Don’t miss No Name Alley, which is like a wondrous corridor of murals. As a UNESCO Creative City, there’s more than 50 pieces of commissioned street art in Central Dunedin alone. Take a self-guided wander on the designated Dunedin Street Art Trail to savour these whimsical works. Not dissimilar to New York’s Meatpacking District, some of Dunedin’s buzzing food venues can also be found here in the Warehouse Precinct, including Vogel Street Kitchen. Housed in a 120-year-old printery, this ten-year-old café was the pioneeering hospo spot in the Warehouse Precinct. With its exposed brick interior and unique mezzanine floor, it’s a sure-bet for great coffee and wood-fired pizza. Then there’s Heritage Coffee, housed in an elegant cream building that began life as the Harbour Masters building. Coffee snobs also rave about Vanguard, a specialty coffee roastery and brew bar. I also enjoyed a great bite for lunch from Big Lizard Ōtepoti, in Vogel Street. The owners Alan and Renee are seasoned hospo pros and this recently opened bakery feels like its shuffled out of a Melbourne laneway, instantly fostering a red-hot following. This new deli-style takeaway offers coffee, ready-made focaccia sandwiches, and made-to-order rolls, while their legendary pastries are irresistible. For posh nosh, a mainstay is Moiety, the ground floor of the Terminus building. This former hotel from the 1880s has been converted into apartments, while the distinguished restaurant offers a five-course tasting menu showcasing ingredients from small local producers, with a stunningly curated wine list. Photo / Dunedin NZ Another great option to add to your bingo card is Graze & Glow, just down from the Octagon on lower Stuart Street. Everything on the menu costs $9. Aptly named, this small bites eatery is bathed in a neon-lit glow, and spans everything from place from tacos and croquettes to lamb skewers and gnocchi. Don’t be surprised to find a line out the door. For a fuss-free takeaway, I’m a long-time fan of Anatolia Turkish Kebab House, a Princes St institution. Murat Bay and his family have been feeding Dunedin for 25 years with their supreme kebabs. Be sure to plump for Anatolia’s special sauce. Dunedin’s brew scene has a long and storied past. First, there’s the mighty Victorian heft of the Speights Brewery, which looks like it could be cast as Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. Established in 1875, this is the oldest working brewery in New Zealand and the brewery tours are excellent in this landmark red-brick behemoth on Rattray Street. (You can also refill your water bottle for free from the tap that draws from the brewery’s freshwater spring.) Further your liquid education at Dunedin's iconic craft brewery, Emerson’s. Founded by Richard Emerson over 30 years ago, this brewery is widely considered as a trail-blazer for New Zealand’s craft beer industry. This much-loved Dunedin institution offers a vibrant atmosphere and outdoor beer garden, matched with delicious craft beer and a menu that caters for all tastes. I adore their Pilsner. While you’re in No Name Alley, check out a recent arrival that’s drawing a following, Steamer Basin brewery and taproom, one of the numerous micro-breweries to enrich the city’s craft scene in recent years. Photo / Dunedin NZ For splendid southern hospitality, blending heritage with style, book a stay at the Scenic Hotel Southern Cross. Dunedin’s largest and most established hotel delivers premier CBD accommodation, with all the major sights in easy reach on foot. Dating back to 1883 and the post-goldrush building boom, the landmark building celebrates Dunedin’s distinctive southern charm, honours the heritage and swaddles you in contemporary comfort. Originally known as the Grand Hotel, it was built by brothers James and John Watson – and no expense was spared in the magnificent architecture and ornate interior. Reporting on the opening, the Otago Daily Times wrote effusively about the opulent new hotel. “There seems to be no question that Dunedin can claim a hotel decidedly unequalled in the Australasian colonies.” The hotel has a 4-star Qualmark rating, plus Enviro-Gold award. If you’re feeling lucky, the Grand Casino is also on-site, which is a boutique and swish affair, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship of the original hotel.  With three in-house restaurants serving breakfast, lunch and dinner plus 24-hour room service, you certainly won’t go hungry. I particularly enjoyed Ports O’Call Bar & Grill which offers excellent food and wine in a relaxed environment. The menu is loaded with family-friendly options, too. All guest rooms and suites include SKY TV, minibar, bathrobes, in-room safe, tea and coffee making facilities, desk, ironing facilities and free WiFi. There’s also a fitness centre, guest laundry and car parking available (for a charge) on-site. www.scenichotelgroup.co.nz Ablaze with summer sightseeing possibilities and experiences to cherish, make your first stop Dunedin’s official website, packed with visitor tips and inspiration. www.dunedinnz.com Mike Yardley is our resident traveller on Jack Tame Saturday Mornings. Sun, 15 Dec 2024 21:58:34 Z /lifestyle/barbecue-season-prep-how-to-get-ready-for-summer-grilling/ /lifestyle/barbecue-season-prep-how-to-get-ready-for-summer-grilling/ From having the right tools to cleaning your grill, Nikki Birrell explains how to barbecue like a pro.  As the weather warms up, barbecues become a central part of outdoor gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a casual family get-together or a larger party, being well-prepared can make all the difference. Here’s how to ensure you’re ready to fire up the grill and impress your guests.  Clean your grill  Before anything else, make sure your barbecue is clean and in working order. A dirty grill not only affects the taste of your food, but it can also be a fire hazard.  Remove any rust, ash, and debris from the grill plates and burners. For gas barbecues, check the gas lines for any leaks or damage— this could prevent accidents and uneven cooking. For charcoal barbecues, ensure you have high-quality charcoal ready to go.  One of the best hacks for cleaning a barbecue is to use a combination of heat and a simple tool you already have in the kitchen: aluminium foil. After grilling, while the grill is still warm but not too hot, ball up a sheet of foil and use it to scrub the grates. The residual heat helps loosen any stuck-on bits, and the foil’s rough surface scrapes away the grime effectively.  If you want an even better clean, use a halved onion. Rub the cut side along the grill grates – its natural acidity helps break down grease.  When your barbie is squeaky clean, season it by using your choice of cooking oil and heat on a medium temperature for 30 minutes – this will prevent your ingredients from sticking to the grill the first time you use it.  Start with a clean slate this barbecue season – there are some great shortcuts to cleaning your grill.  Organise your tools  Having the right tools on hand makes grilling easier. Check that your tongs, spatulas, and grill brushes are in good condition, and replace any that have seen better days. Consider investing in a good meat thermometer for perfectly cooked steaks and chicken. Having a sturdy pair of heat-resistant gloves can also come in handy, especially if you’re working with high temperatures for extended periods.  Stock up on fuel  Make sure you’re well-stocked with gas or charcoal before barbecue season hits. Running out of fuel midway through grilling can ruin a party. If you have a gas barbecue, double-check your propane levels and have a backup tank on hand. For those using charcoal, store it in a dry place to ensure it stays ready for use. A chimney starter can also speed up the lighting process and save you time when preparing to grill.  Marinades and rubs  Flavour is key to a successful barbecue, and the best way to achieve it is with a good marinade or dry rub. Start experimenting with different combinations of herbs, spices, and sauces in advance so you’ll know what works best with your cuts of meat. For a crowd-pleaser, try making a classic garlic and herb marinade or a smoky dry rub. Preparing these in bulk and freezing them means you’ll have them ready to go for spontaneous barbecues throughout the season.  Plan your sides  A great barbecue isn’t just about the meat. Planning your sides can elevate the meal, so consider what will complement your mains. Simple, make-ahead dishes like coleslaw, potato salad, and grilled veges can save you time and hassle when it comes to serving. If you’re keen on something different, try grilling fruit like peaches or pineapple for a fresh dessert option.  Safety first  Safety is always a priority when grilling. Make sure your barbecue is set up in a well-ventilated area and away from any overhanging branches or structures. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby, just in case, and never leave your grill unattended. If you have little ones around, be mindful of where they are in relation to the hot grill.  With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a stress-free and delicious barbecue season. All that’s left to do is invite some friends over and enjoy the sunshine.  Herald contributor Nikki Birrell has worked in food and travel publishing for nearly 20 years. From managing your kitchen to cutting costs, she’s shared some helpful advice recently, including how to make the perfect risotto, the secret to cooking dried beans and choosing the right pasta.  Sat, 14 Dec 2024 03:47:27 Z /lifestyle/travel/mike-yardley-free-wheeling-the-delights-of-otago-harbour/ /lifestyle/travel/mike-yardley-free-wheeling-the-delights-of-otago-harbour/ Plan a summer escapade to the hot-tub of southern hospitality in irrepressible Dunedin. You’d struggle to find a comparably sized city that serves up such a spoil of fabulously distinctive visitor experiences. Fanning out from the city, the long, plumped and ranging finger of Otago Peninsula, fringed with beaches, scalloped by bays, carpeted in lush pastures, furnished in dry stone walls and studded in volcanic peaks is a world unto itself. Bountiful, bucolic, an urban escape-hatch. Richly blessed with flippered and feathered possibilities, the wildlife alone is a perennial banner attraction, but the peninsula and harbour also abound with invigorating trails.  A supreme way of appreciating the rich tapestry of Otago Harbour is to hit the pedals and cycle your way around the water’s edge on Te Aka Otakou/ The Otago Vine. Finally completed last year, this riveting purpose-built trail for cyclists and walkers spans a 32km loop. The west harbour path from the city to Portobello and the sublime peninsula is called Te Awa Otakou/The Ocean River, while Te Ara Moana/The Ocean Path hugs the eastern edge of the harbour, linking the city to Port Chalmers. Best of all, to complete the circuit, Port to Port Cruises operates short and sweet ferry crossings, allowing you to cross the water with your bike from Port Chalmers to Portobello. Scenic cycling around the harbour. Photo / dunedinnz I have a major soft spot for cute-as-a-button Portobello and its peaceful village vibe. Just past the treasured Portobello Hotel, which my great great uncle was once the publican of, I followed the signposts to Okia Reserve and Victory Beach, the peninsula’s longest beach. Before reaching this 3km-long beach, the 20 minute walk from the carpark leads you to the striking Pyramids, two prism-shaped volcanic rock formations. The views from the top of Little Pyramid are ravishing, while the beach which takes its name from the partially visible 1861 shipwreck of the SS Victory, is home to hoiho, fur seals and sea lions. Keep your distance! Portobello is also the gateway to ‘the real’ Otago Peninsula - with world-acclaimed attractions like Larnach Castle and the Royal Albatross Colony at Taiaroa Head.  I made my way up to the Royal Observatory Box where several dozen chicks, bulging fluffy balls of snow-white feathers, speckled the headland, waiting for their parents to return from sea with a squid smoothie. It was enthralling to savour these majestic seabirds up-close, in the world’s sole mainland albatross colony. The passionate guides captivated me with commanding insights on the northern royals, who will leave the colony on a two week day journey to the Chilean coastline, eventually returning home to breed on that wind-swept cliff they clumsily departed from, after several years of far-flung foraging at sea. The sound of pealing bells still rings out triumphantly from Dunedin churches and schools when the first juvenile returns for the next breeding season. The birds can reach a speed of 120km, courtesy of their awe-inspiring 3 metre wingspan.  Royal Albatross at Taiaroa Head. Photo / dunedinnz Just up the hill from Portobello, there’s no overlooking the crown jewel, Larnach Castle, built in 1871 by the merchant baron and politician, William Larnach. No expense was spared, with the finest materials deployed. Still privately owned, the Barker family purchased the home over 50 years ago, dedicating decades to the castle’s restoration, furnishing the palatial landmark with a trove of original New Zealand period furniture and antiques.  You could not wish for better custodians of history and the Larnach legacy than the Barker family. When they took possession of the rundown castle, it was devoid of furniture and many of the glorious architectural features were missing. Studiously researching the original décor, artwork and furnishings, the castle’s impeccable restoration has been undertaken while keeping the faith with its original glory. I particularly adore the Music Room. Like the home, the expansive hillside grounds were also in a state of extreme neglect, when the Barkers took possession. But today, just like the splendour of the castle, the 35 acres of grounds and gardens are a visual symphony, a wonderland of vistas, secret paths, radiant flower beds, hedge rows and trees. So much so, they’re feted as a “Garden of International Significance” by the New Zealand Gardens Trust.  Lanarch Castle gardens. Photo / dunedinnz Hop aboard a harbour ferry crossing with Port to Port, whisking you across the China blue water to historic Port Chalmers, backed by indented verdant ranges and mighty Mt. Cargill. lf you want more time on the water, book a Port to Port Wildlife Cruise. The charming and enterprising Rachel McGregor established this venture, which takes you out past the heads into the Pacific Ocean, where a vast menagerie of species had flocked to feed on the tide line. Over the course of 90 minutes, we gawped in awe at the wheeling aerodynamics, theatrical sea landings and take-offs of five different albatross species, alongside close encounters with shags, shearwaters, oystercatchers, red-billed gulls, before marvelling over the hollering sealions and snoozing fur seals. It’s a photogenic feast of coastal wildlife, backed by the beauty of Taiaroa Head, while Rachel’s perky, incisive narration greatly enhances the encounters. A class act. www.porttoport.co.nz  Head up the hill from Port Chalmers to the ‘cloud forest’ of Orokonui Ecosanctuary. As the welcome winter sun illuminated the sanctuary, the reaching views across Silverpeaks Scenic Reserve and Blueskin Bay are deliciously soothing for the soul. Orokonui is the largest predator free forest in the South Island and this super safe conservation refuge was teeming with endangered wildlife, including takahe and South Island brown kiwi. As | casually tootled through the forest-draped walking tracks, a roll call of native birdlife warbled, fluttered, preened and played up. The puffed-up male tui and bellbirds were in full operatic cry, as were the cheeky kaka. The unmistakeable whoosh of a low-flying kereru was swiftly followed by the bizarre spectacle of brilliantly-named brown creeper birds stealthily creeping between the branches. Orokonui provides a full-barrelled fix for twitchers and the bush walks are splendid. www.orokonui.co.nz   Orokonui Eco-sanctuary. Photo / Mike Yardley Back in Port Chalmers, I had walked and cycled up quite the appetite. Just around the corner, Carey’s Bay Historic Hotel is a blissful spot to savour the scenery and sublime local produce. Hello, seafood. Port Chalmers serves up spectacular viewing points. Check out Centenary Lookout, Hotere Garden Oputae and Flagstaff Lookout to determine which spot gets the gong for viewissimo. Constructed from the mast of a condemned pirate ship, the flagstaff, was the home of the first publicly funded timeball in the South Island in the 1860s. This is my favourite viewpoint down onto the quaint main street of the port, which looks like Toy Town from this perch.  If you’re in need of a re-caffeination, Union Co Café is a cracker spot — named in honour of the Union Steamship Company which operated here from 1875. Across the road, unleash your inner-salty dog and immerse yourself in Dunedin’s glorious seafaring heritage at the Port Chalmers Maritime Museum. It only reopened two months ago after a sparkling upgrade and extension. The 1877 Heritage Category 1 listed building is now a light-filled space light — thanks to the refurbished clerestory windows, a new glass extension and a wide internal laneway linking the museum to the Port Otago Annex where you can watch operations from the mezzanine. The interior walls are covered in story-filled panels and there are countless artefacts —big and small— on display. I particularly loved the “Wall of Ships”, gazing up the 12 metre high wall of ship models, collected over the years by the Port Chalmers Historical Society. Within the laneway is a wonderful ABCedarium, which is a series of photos, artefacts and information, built around each letter of the alphabet. A plaque outside the museum marks the spot where the first Scottish settlers came ashore, from the John Wickliffe, in 1848.  Scenic Port Chalmers. Photo / dunedinnz Riding back to the city from Port Chalmers, a huge highlight is crossing the Blanket Bay bridge — a 600m long boardwalk, suspended above the water. Bike hire? Get cycling with Bike House for an unforgettable exploration of the city’s trails and stupendous harbour. With flexible options for a 3-hour or full-day hire, they offer the perfect opportunity to absorb the grand-scale nature of the harbour trails, revelling in this elemental playground and its bounty of experiences. Bike House is at 67 Stuart Street.  Put yourself at the centre of the action with a great stay at Scenic Hotel Southern Cross, available on Booking.com. Offering accommodation, flights, bookable attractions and car hires, Booking.com takes the stress out of travelling all on one platform. Sign up to Booking.com’s Genius program to unlock even bigger travel discounts and rewards. www.booking.com   Ablaze with summer sightseeing and experiences to cherish, make your first stop Dunedin’s official website, packed with visitor tips and inspiration. www.dunedinnz.com   Mike Yardley is our resident traveller on Jack Tame Saturday Mornings.  Sat, 14 Dec 2024 01:12:03 Z /lifestyle/should-i-let-my-teenager-try-alcohol-this-is-what-the-experts-say/ /lifestyle/should-i-let-my-teenager-try-alcohol-this-is-what-the-experts-say/ By Serena Solomon of RNZ Andrew Galloway’s first experience with alcohol occurred when an adult family member supplied him with a box of beer. “It was consumed irresponsibly and I was horribly sick. I went on to have a bad relationship with alcohol.” His experience mirrors what a large body of research-based evidence indicates. When parents introduce alcohol to their teenagers, it increases their child’s chances of having an unhealthy relationship with drinking. Galloway is now the executive director of Alcohol Healthwatch, an organisation dedicated to reducing and preventing alcohol-related harm. How parents should introduce alcohol to their children is a common question that he gets and the answer is delay delay delay. As Christmas and New Year’s Eve approach with all the associated parties, parents might think about pouring their 15-year-old a dribble of a stiff drink. Don’t do it, say the experts. “It’s a mind-altering depressant drug the harm of which is more than any other drug in New Zealand,” said Galloway, who has since reined in his unhealthy drinking habits. The millions spent on alcohol marketing each year - estimated at $61 million in 2018 - does a good job of associating alcohol with career and social success. But that’s not the case. Alcohol-related harm costs New Zealand about $9 billion annually. Alcohol is involved in more than 30% of family violence incidents. It directly contributes to one in 10 cases of child abuse or child neglect. It can cause a range of diseases including heart disease and cancer. What does the research say? There is overwhelming research that indicates introducing alcohol to your teenager is not a helpful strategy, according to Sally Casswell, a professor of public health and social research at Massey University. “I know that many parents will use this rationale that they’re doing it so that their kids learn how to drink and it’s safer for them to be given alcohol at home rather than outside. But there isn’t any evidence that overall it’s a good idea.” Casswell pointed to an Australian study published in 2018 that followed almost 2000 parents and teenagers for six years. It found that when parents supplied their children with alcohol it resulted in increased incidents of binge drinking, alcohol-related harm and alcohol use disorder. “You also hear parents say and believe that if they supply the alcohol, there will be less chance that the kids will get it from other people, they won’t go hunting it from friends or getting it illegally and so on.” The Australian study proved that theory wrong, too. If parents supply alcohol, it’s likely their kids will seek more illegally, Cassell said. “I know that many parents will use this rationale that they’re doing it so that their kids learn how to drink and it’s safer for them to be given alcohol at home rather than outside. But there isn’t any evidence that overall it’s a good idea.” Photo / 123rf But what does the law say? New Zealand’s laws don’t line up with the research. While it is illegal for young people under the age of 18 to buy alcohol, parents can legally supply their children with it at any age in a responsible manner. Furthermore, parents or legal guardians can permit other people to supply their children with alcohol in a responsible manner. A responsible manner, according to the Ministry of Justice, could mean supplying food and non-alcoholic drinks with the alcohol and limiting the strength and amount of alcohol served. Galloway believes a drinking age of 25 is more in line with research than 18 when brains are still growing. By age 25, the area of the brain responsible for decisions, the frontal cortex, “is fully developed and people can make decisions with a good risk calculator”, he said. But how do the French do it? There has been a trend in bougie parenting spaces to look to France for parenting models (who remembers the book Bringing Up Bebe, an American view of French parenting?). This includes an assumption that the French have developed a sophisticated drinking culture by introducing fine wine to their children at the family dinner table. This is an incomplete picture that glosses over alcohol harm in France, said Casswell. “[France] had one in five hospital beds with somebody in it with an alcohol-related disease. They were really struggling.” The nation that gives us sparkling champagne and rich Bordeaux reds began taxing alcohol heavily, reducing its availability and restricting alcohol marketing. New Zealand tried a more liberal European approach to alcohol starting in the 1980s with the goal that “New Zealand would become a sophisticated drinking nation like France ...” according to the Laking Report. The rationale ignored the strong association between increased alcohol availability and increased harm. Now, some New Zealand councils are pulling back alcohol availability by reducing places where you can buy alcohol and reducing hours it can be sold, according to Galloway. So how should I approach alcohol with my teenager? When Casswell looks back at her days parenting teenagers, she stuck to a core message. “I just kept saying over and over that ‘I’m not saying you never drink alcohol. Later is better. Later is better. Later is better’ and it worked.” Parents can sometimes feel pressure from their kids to provide alcohol because that’s what they think other families are doing. Take heart, that isn’t the case either. “One of the things that has come out of the research is that often parents perceive that other parents are supplying alcohol to a greater extent than they actually are.” Alcohol is also falling out of favour with young people. Research from the University of Otago found that while binge drinking is still an issue, fewer teenagers drink alcohol than 20 years ago and they face less stigma when turning down a drink. ALCOHOL ADDICTION Where to get help:• If you or someone you know needs support and treatment to reduce their alcohol intake, call the Alcohol Drug Helpline on 0800 787 797, visit their website, or free text 8681 for confidential advice. HEALTH CHANGES • Consult a GP or other qualified healthcare provider before making any health changes suggested in this article. Always seek the advice of your GP or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have.• Healthline provides a 24 hours a day, 7 days a week over-the-phone health service at 0800 611 116 you can call for free health advice, information and treatment from professional healthcare providers. Thu, 12 Dec 2024 08:05:57 Z /lifestyle/redevelopment-plans-revealed-for-wellington-s-oriental-bay-band-rotunda/ /lifestyle/redevelopment-plans-revealed-for-wellington-s-oriental-bay-band-rotunda/ The landmark Band Rotunda in Wellington’s Oriental Bay has been sitting empty for more than a decade. Previous plans to strengthen and restore the heritage-listed and quake-prone building fell through. A new developer is set to take over the project, with plans to open a spa, restaurant and bar in 2027. Restoration is on the horizon for the historic Band Rotunda in Wellington‘s Oriental Bay. Wellington City Council has chosen Watson Group Limited to “revitalise” the iconic site, after more than a decade of sitting empty and a previous failed restoration attempt. Plans for the property include restoring it into a bathhouse and day spa on the bottom floor with a restaurant and bar on the top, and public access to the rooftop. The iconic building is set to be restored into a spa and restaurant, with a public lookout on top. Photo / Wellington City Council. A council spokeswoman said “officers have been approved to negotiate a development agreement”, following a council meeting today. Watson Group approached the council with its vision for the building after previous plans fell through earlier this year. The Wellington-based developer is behind several residential housing developments in the capital. Earthquake strengthening work is set to start in the new year, with the project scheduled to be completed in 2027. Architectural mock-ups show the proposed restaurant and bar looking over the Wellington harbour. Photo / Wellington City Council. The 2027 opening will coincide with the 90th anniversary of the original bathing pavilion opening, the spokeswoman said. The building, which is both earthquake-prone and heritage-listed, has been closed since 2012 and requires considerable strengthening and restoration work to bring it up to standard. The Band Rotunda is earthquake-prone and heritage-listed and has sat empty since 2012. Photo / Heritage New Zealand Wellington City Council owns the building and in 2019 chose developer Cheops Holdings, sister company to McKee Fehl Construction, to revive the site. Work later began to restore the building into a premier hospitality venue, with an expectation it would be completed by the end of 2021. Progress stalled, however, with Cheops unable to find a suitable tenant to move in. The Herald revealed in September that the project had been mothballed, with Cheops developer Maurice Clarke walking away from the development. The council described it as a “mutual decision” to terminate the development agreement and lease. At the time it said it was in discussions with other developers on the future of the site. The Band Rotunda has been a Wellington waterfront landmark since its original construction in 1937. In 2019 the council said the concrete slab between the upper and lower levels of the building had deteriorated and become unsafe, with the foundations also affected by the sea. It was originally constructed as a bathing pavilion with the second level added in 1985 to create a restaurant. The lower level, which was previously a changing room, was turned into a community and meeting space. The council won’t reveal the cost of the project, citing commercial sensitivity. Ethan Manera is a multimedia journalist based in Wellington. He joined 九一星空无限 in 2023 and is interested in local issues, politics and property in the capital. Ethan is always on the lookout for a story and can be emailed at ethan.manera@nzme.co.nz. Thu, 12 Dec 2024 01:56:21 Z /lifestyle/technology/oppo-find-x8-pro-still-leading-the-way-in-phone-photography/ /lifestyle/technology/oppo-find-x8-pro-still-leading-the-way-in-phone-photography/ I still remember trying an Oppo phone for the first time. I'd never really heard of the brand up until then so I was blown away when I discovered how good the phone was, especially the camera. The first periscope lens I experienced on a phone was on an Oppo phone. The first time I used a popup camera on a phone was on an Oppo phone. The first time I saw truly fast charging was with an Oppo phone. So it was no surprise the first time I encountered four 50MP lenses on one handset was also on an Oppo phone. The Oppo Find X8 Pro is like a supercar; pretty much every feature has been maximised for ultimate performance. And just like a supercar, the FInd X8 Pro certainly stands out in a crowd - strikingly so with its somewhat overbearing camera module; four lenses set into a brushed metal disc, protruding unashamedly from the rear panel, which is either Space Black or Pearl White. Oh, and when Oppo says, "pearl" it means it. If you hold it up to the light the matte rear panel reflects back like a polished shell. As I say, you can't argue this handset isn't unique. If you prefer a compact device, the Find X8 Pro may not be what you're looking for. The 6.78-inch display is at the upper end of the scale and it means if you like to keep your phone in your pockets they'd better be deep ones. Literally. And also figuratively. This phone is not cheap. But we'll get to that. Lots of people love a large screen - especially those of us of a certain age with certain short-distance eyesight issues. What a fantastic screen it is; an FHD+ AMOLED display with a variable 120Hz refresh rate, a peak brightness of 4500nits (insane) and covered with Corning Gorilla Glass 7i - a generation of the reputed toughened glass I didn't even know existed. The Find X8 Pro is also the first device I've used that's both IP68 and IP69 rated. This means it's dust-proof and will resist extended periods of immersion and exposure to high-pressure streams of liquids. So if you've ever wanted to waterblast your phone, this is the one to do it with. (That was a joke, not a recommendation) At 5910mAh, this may also be the phone with the biggest battery I've ever come across too. In fact, it's a new generation silicon-carbon cell which not only stays cool but is more resilient in colder temperatures. In short, this is a very durable device. Which is just as well, given its price. But we'll get to that. As you would expect, the large battery means you can go a long time between charges and in Oppo's usual style, they've included an 80W SuperVOOC charger in the box which will juice up the phone fast enough for you to watch the percentage points rise before your very eyes. So what about wireless charging? I hear you ask. Oh no, hang on; that's me. I'm kind of obsessed with wireless charging and in the past I've been disappointed when Oppo phones have been restricted to pesky cords just because they work a bit faster. My argument is cords are messy and you get a lot of wear-and-tear plugging and unplugging them all the time. Thankfully, the Find X8 Pro comes to the wireless party. In fact, it goes a step further with its range of OPPO Mag accessories. Although there's no magnetic coil built into the phone itself, Oppo has come up with a range of covers that snap on easily and are compatible with other magnetic chargers, stands and car cradles. One of these covers was included in my review kit along with one of the more innovative accessories I've seen this year; the 50W AirVOOC wireless charger. Yes, this lets you charge wirelessly at previously unheard-of speeds, although you will have to put up with a little bit of fan noise as it keeps itself cool. The review kit also included Oppo's Enco X3i true wireless earbuds. I haven't used any Oppo buds before and I loved them straight away. The reflective, Meteor Grey finish looks very classy, they have a comfy, secure fit, battery life is great and just like the Find X8 Pro, they're jam-packed with high-end features. The Enco X3i buds probably deserve their own review at a later date but let me just say I've been very impressed - although the Active Noise Cancelling isn't the best I've used and unlike the phone, the charging case charges via USB-C only - no wireless. And you know how I feel about wireless charging. Back to the Find X8 Pro though; and that ground-breakng camera, co-developed with Hasselblad. Given many phones don't have a telescopic lens at all, the fact Oppo has included two of them here is pretty wild. So just to repeat, all four sensors - the wide, ultra-wide and both periscope zooms - are 50MP. That means you have the option of capturing hi-res images at any zoom length up to 6x. It gets better. Thanks to the very fast and powerful Dimensity 9400 chip from MediaTek, even shots taken past the 6x optical zoom will look surprisngly sharp because the Find X8 Pro uses AI to fill in the detail. In fact, you can zoom up to 120x. The camera features keep coming, so buckle up. Just like a certain other well-known phone released recently, Oppo has also added a new, multi-functional camera button to the handset - positioned where the button would be on a standalone camera when you're holding the phone in landscape. This new button, the "Quick Button," is not a physical button but more like a capacitive pad. A double press opens the camera app instantly, with no delay at all. Then, not only can you slide your finger back and forth for zoom control but you can hold the button down to take a burst shot, capturing up to seven frames a second. This makes seizing special, spontaneous moments easier than ever; be it the finish line at a half-marathon or just a bird tending its nest in a tree outside my window. This shot was taken from the middle of my lounge, through the window at about 20x zoom. Not bad, eh? Oppo's latest AI editing tools don't just fill in details - you can remove reflections, fix blur and erase distracting objects (or people). Ah yes, AI. I don't know why I thought I might get through to the end of 2024 without bringing it up again. At least Oppo hasn't made it what the Find X8 Pro is all about - it's just there as another tool to enhance the way you use the phone. As you would expect from any flagship handset this year, you can summarise or translate text,  proofread, format and change the tone of your own notes and writing. There's also a fun, AI-powered app called AI Studio that transforms pictures - including your own - into a host of other styles; cartoons, oil paintings, sand sculptures - there's quite a list of options. As an example, here's my little avian friend as if painted by Picasso... Video performance is undeniably top-notch too. You can shoot 4K at 60fps. That's impressive. The fact you can do it with EVERY SINGLE CAMERA - including the 32MP selfie shooter - is unheard of. This means you now have a movie studio in your pocket, capable of producing 10-bit HDR Dolby Vision Footage. All enhanced even more by the quad-mic array, allowing you to focus on your subject both visually and aurally. None of this would be possible without the Mediatek Dimensity 9400 chip quietly (and coolly) driving everything in the background. I haven't heard much hype about this 3nm mega-brain but I can't fault its sublime performance. This phone positively flies, whatever you throw at it. You can always tell how enamoured I am with a device when I exceed my usual word count the way I have today and really, I've only scratched the surface. The Find X8 Pro may be the most feature-packed handset I've ever come across; unprecedented durability against dust and water, unprecedented battery performance, unprecedented range of high-end accessories and above all else, an unprecedented camera array, with four spectacular 50MP rear cameras and genuinely cinematic video performance. Yes, at an RRP of NZ$2,299.00 it's expensive. But you'll find it's on special for quite a bit less at most retailers right now or alternatively, bundled with hundreds of dollars worth of bonus products. And besides, I've reviewed more expensive phones that don't come close to delivering what the Find X8 Pro does. It simply doesn't get more flagship than this.      Click here for more information and pricing on the Oppo Find X8 Pro. Wed, 11 Dec 2024 19:39:48 Z