Category: MIL-OSI

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An act of generosity during the Great Depression is still supporting people today. In 1936, banker William Hartley Hargreaves left £12,000 to establish a trust for the families of his colleagues at the Bank of New Zealand – a fund that has grown to over $1.45 million today.

Originally created to support “indigent widows of bank officers” – it has evolved through High Court decisions in 1989 and 2023 to help BNZ staff members and their families facing financial hardship.

“The trust’s journey reflects the changing face of New Zealand society,” says Frances Ronowicz, BNZ’s Head of Social Impact.

“What began as support for widows during the Depression era now helps our people and their families in tough times. The trust has provided over $320,000 in assistance to staff and their dependents in the past decade alone.”

“Recent grants have helped colleagues access urgent family support, cope with serious health challenges including mobility needs, and rebuild their lives during personal crises. The trust also assists with essential costs during unexpected life events that can create financial strain.”

The trust’s founder, William Hartley Hargreaves, was a prominent figure in colonial New Zealand, managing BNZ branches from Thames to Temuka after joining in 1867.

Deeply connected to the communities he served, his retirement in 1913 drew what local papers called “perhaps the largest gathering of citizens ever accommodated in the Borough Council.”

Through careful management and investment, the trust has grown into a sustainable $1.45 million fund that generates ongoing returns to support future generations. This ensures the trust can continue providing assistance without depleting its capital base.

“Hargreaves’ gift has left a lasting legacy, and we’re proud to continue administering the trust in his name, providing support to our people in times of need,” says Ronowicz.

The post Depression-era bequest still helping 88 years later appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

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After last week’s dose of wet and windy weather, Aucklanders are getting a bit of a reprieve for Anzac Day but may see rain over the weekend, most likely Sunday. We’re reminding people to check drains and gutters again; plan travel carefully and stay up to date with weather forecasts.

Auckland Emergency Management General Manager Adam Maggs says Aucklanders did a great job preparing for the impacts of ex-tropical Cyclone Tam and responding to the weather conditions over the Easter weekend.

“Aucklanders across the region experienced heavy rain, strong winds and flooding in places just days ago, over the Easter long weekend.

“While there’s still a high degree of uncertainty, we could see some wet weather in parts of Tāmaki Makaurau over the Anzac long weekend.

“We understand Aucklanders may be sick of hearing about the weather, but it doesn’t take long to do a few important things – a quick check of gutters and drains on your property, and a regular update on the weather forecast over the weekend,” says Adam.

Keep up to date with the weather forecast

MetService has not issued any current weather watches or warnings for the weekend as it’s too early to predict how the weekend weather will pan out. A top tip is to download the MetService app from the App Store or Google Play and sign up for push notifications to your phone.

“At this stage, it looks like we’re in for rain overnight on Saturday and into Sunday morning – right about the time when people may start heading home from school holidays or long weekend breaks.

“There is still uncertainty about when and where bad weather will hit, so make sure you check the forecast when planning any weekend travel or activities and check it again for any changes before you go out. Don’t forget, if you’re heading to another region, check the weather there too.

“With soil saturation levels now very high, there is always the possibility of flooding if heavy rain eventuates.

“If you’re on the roads, drive to the conditions, take care and give yourself plenty of time,” he says.

Add property prep to your weekend checklist

Taking half an hour to make sure your home and property are prepared for bad weather could prevent unnecessary damage and disruption.

“Securing or storing outdoor furniture and umbrellas ahead of bad weather doesn’t take much time and could stop these items from getting damaged or damaging your property.

“If we get gusty winds, these can easily pick up small or loose items, flip trampolines or lightweight outdoor furniture and play equipment,” says Adam.

Checking drains, gutters and trees or plants on your property that can lose branches or clog drains is a good idea at this time of year.

“Auckland Council’s Healthy Waters team has again been out this week checking hot spots and clearing drains. It’s important that residents do this too.

“Anything on your property that may wash into the stormwater system and cause blockages should be removed. Clearing gutters and drains on your property will also help prevent damage, leaks and flooding. 

“It’s always a good time to check your emergency readiness supplies – in the unlikely event the power goes out or, for those in more remote parts of the region, you get temporarily cut off.

“Visit our website (aucklandemergencymanagement.govt.nz) or getready.govt.nz for good advice on getting your household prepared for an emergency,” says Adam.

Always in the know: top tips for wild weather

• Follow weather forecasts for regular updates – forecasts can change.
• Plan your travel carefully and never drive through floodwater.
• If life or property is at risk, phone 111.
• If you live somewhere prone to flooding, slips or power outages, ensure you have a supply of food and provisions in case you become isolated.
• Treat power lines as live at all times.
• Report flooding and blocked stormwater drains to Auckland Council on 09 301 0101.
• Visit aucklandcouncil.govt.nz and click “Report a problem” to report trees down on public land.
• If your property is damaged, take photographs for your insurer as early as possible.

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If you’re dreaming of an affordable summer holiday by the beach that doesn’t involve hours of driving and having to pitch a tent, Auckland Council has a range of accommodation options to provide a dynamic experience. From caravans to cabins to backpackers, here’s a selection of options to suit whānau, large groups, couples and solo travellers.

Cosy cabins at Ōrewa Beach Holiday Park

Adorable is the word to describe the standard cabins at Ōrewa Beach Holiday Park with their teal-trimmed windows, wee balconies, and ply-lined interiors. Perfect for families, each cabin has rollaway / portable single beds or is also available for max occupancy with costs of $85-$100 a night.

The beach is right at your doorstep (no crossing the road) and tamariki will enjoy making new friends in the adventure playground. There are some great pedal cars available for kids to play with also.

If you’re after a bit more comfort, deluxe cabins are still great value for money at $145-$160 per night with two bedrooms, cooking facilities and a large covered deck.

Ease into the outdoors in a deluxe EcoStructure

Tired of the same camping experience? Why not book an EcoStructure at Ōrewa Beach ($190 per night) or Martins Bay Holiday Parks. With amazing views of the local scenery and a homely feeling to its interiors, the Ecostructure is an ideal alternative to your standard camping experience.

They’re eco-luxe with attractive rattan furniture, a double bed and a separate room with two bunk beds. You don’t even need to bring your own bed linen. And if you’re a group of five, the Martins Bay Holiday Park EcoStructures ($180-$220 per night) have a foldaway bed for a fifth person.

Please note that Ecostructures may vary in style or experience depending on location.

Host everyone at Huia Lodge

Looking for a location for a get together? Holding up to 30 people and only $385 a night, it would be hard to find accommodation cheaper than Huia Lodge. This old schoolhouse, which was built in 1893, looks out across the beautiful tidal waters of Huia Bay in the Waitākere Ranges and contains six bunk rooms with two double bunk beds and one single bed in each. Book it for large family and friend gatherings.

Rent a retro caravan

Everyone should sleep in a caravan at least once in their life. The caravans at Martins Bay Holiday Park have oodles of personality with their 70s colour schemes, petite light fittings and ingenious cubbies for storing your stuff.

They’re fully furnished with cooking facilities and crockery – all you need to bring is bed linen and towels. They sleep up to six and range in price from $160-$180 per night. Or head further north up the coast to Whangateau Holiday Park near Leigh, and stay in one of their equally-sweet beach-front caravans.

Cross the water to Waiheke Backpackers Hostel

If you fancy some time alone, Waiheke Backpackers Hostel overlooks the stunning white sands of Onetangi Beach. Just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland and a short taxi, shuttle or bus ride away, the hostel contains a range of rooms, including single-bunk rooms for two or four, an assisted-mobility room with a queen-size bed, or nab the room with a queen-size bed and an ensuite. Prices range from $45 per person for a room in a mixed dorm to $170 per night for the ensuite.

Bach it up out south at Āwhitu House

With its mint green exterior and French doors, this three-bedroom 1930s house in Āwhitu Regional Park is a charming escape (and a former rangers house). Enjoy countryside views (the park is also a working farm) then take a five-minute stroll to the safe, sandy beach on the southwest shores of the Manukau Harbour and visit the Āwhitu Golf Club close by for a round or two.  Prices per night for accommodation at range from $105-$169 depending on the time of year.

Baches and other accommodation at Auckland’s regional parks and holiday parks can be booked on the Auckland Council website, where you’ll also find more information about amenities and check in/out times.

Enjoy seaside and countryside views by booking accommodation at Āwhitu House in Āwhitu Regional Park.

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Whether you’re a cat person or a dog person, fish fanatic or lizard lover, pets can bring great joy and companionship into our lives. 

But while loving our pets is easy, being a responsible pet owner takes more effort. It means doing everything we can to keep our pets happy, healthy, and safe, while also preventing them from causing harm to our precious natural environment and the community. 

By taking the time to learn about what it means to be a responsible pet owner we can ensure our pets, native plants and animals all have the space they need to thrive. Want to make sure you’re playing your part? Here’s what it means to be a superstar owner of some of our most-loved types of pets: 

Dogs 

Loving and loyal, a dog can be a wonderful addition to your whānau. But as anyone with a canine companion knows, they also need careful management to ensure they don’t cause nuisance or harm to other animals, people, or the environment.  

Some basic steps you can take as a responsible dog owner include making sure your dog is registered, de-sexed and microchipped; keeping your dog under control at all times (especially around children and native wildlife); observing rules around where dogs are/aren’t allowed and where leashes are required; and of course—always picking up your pooch’s poop! 

Another part of being a responsible dog owner is ensuring your dog has enough stimulation and exercise. Not only will this keep them happy and healthy, it will prevent destructive behaviours like barking and biting. 

Find more information about being a responsible dog owner.

Cats

Cat’s are Aotearoa’s most popular pet, occupying an estimated 44% of New Zealand homes.

If we let our beloved cats out to roam, they could be hit by cars, or kill native birds, bats, lizards and insects. The best way to prevent this is to keep cats at home, or at the very least, inside overnight. If they are allowed outdoors, a bright collar or bell can help warn birds and other wildlife of their presence. 

Other steps all responsible cat owners should take include ensuring their cat is de-sexed (to avoid more kittens without forever homes) and microchipped. Keeping your cat well-fed with a diet that includes meat and stimulated with games will also reduce their urge to hunt. 

Find more tips on being a responsible cat owner.

Fish

Cute, colourful and compact, it’s hard to imagine how your harmless little Nemo could ever cause any mischief.  

The trouble starts when pet fish are released into the wild, either deliberately or because a pond has overflowed. When this happens, pet fish can wreak havoc on our natural waterways—outcompeting native species, degrading water quality, introducing parasites and disease and eating native insects, fish eggs and plants. What’s worse: they can spread and breed quickly, making pet fish difficult to get rid of once they are established. 

The good news is that avoiding this mayhem is easy. All you have to do is keep them well away from waterways, which means never releasing them into the wild and, if you have an outdoor pond, ensuring it is securely contained. If you can no longer care for your fish, it’s important to find a new owner, return it to the pet store or find a fish rehoming group on Facebook.

Find more tips on being a responsible pet owner and protecting our environment.

Birds

Much like fish, pet birds can upset our delicate ecosystem when released into the wild. Unlike fish, they can fly, meaning escapees are common.

Once they’re lost from home, pet birds can impact native species, especially native parrots such as kākāriki and kākā, by introducing diseases and taking away food resources and places to nest.

To prevent this, a responsible bird owner will ensure their birds are securely contained at all times, and give them enough space and quality food to meet its behavioural needs. If they’re no longer able to look after their pet bird, they will find someone else who can give it a long term home or look for a bird rescue centre. 

Find more tips on being a responsible pet owner and protecting our environment.

Bunnies 

If you’ve ever heard the phrase “breed like rabbits”, you can imagine the issue that pet bunnies pose in the wild. Letting them go outside the home means turning them from pets into pests, which doesn’t serve the bunny or the environment well. 

Aside from their ability to multiply rapidly, bunnies dig up vegetation and create holes in the ground. This is bad for native ecosystems and poses a health and safety risk, as people can easily trip in rabbit holes. 

Being a responsible bunny owner means keeping your pet rabbit securely contained at all times, ensuring its behavioural needs are met, and never releasing the bunny in the wild. Importantly, it means finding someone who can give it a long-term home or a rescue centre if you can no longer take care of it. 

Find more tips on being a responsible pet owner and protecting our environment.

Turtles

Red-eared sliders are the most popular pet turtle and are usually adorably tiny when you first buy them. What many people don’t realise is that they can grow to the size of dinner plates, leading many turtle-owners to find they’ve bitten off more than they can chew. 

When this happens, many owners think they’re doing their pet a favour by setting it free outdoors. Unfortunately, this can be dangerous for the turtle as well as the environment. As omnivores, turtles eat a wide variety of aquatic plants as well as fish, baby birds, insects, lizards and frogs, putting more strain on an already stressed ecosystem.  

The first step to being a responsible turtle owner is to realise that turtles are long-term pets (they can live for more than 30 years!), and to think carefully about whether you can handle one once it’s fully-grown. Keeping turtles securely contained at all times is a must, and if you can no longer care for them, find a new owner or take them to a turtle rescue centre. 

Find more tips on being a responsible pet owner and protecting our environment.

Thank you!

Finally, we want to acknowledge and celebrate all the responsible pet owners who are playing their part to make Tāmaki Makaurau a great place for pets, the community and native wildlife alike. We thank you for your mahi and hope you’ll encourage friends and family to be just as awesome as you. 

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Auckland’s Harbour Bridge will, this Friday, be transformed into a spectacular celebration of our marine environment, with an exciting, engaging light and audio story in honour of WWF-New Zealand’s Whale Tales public art trail – opening throughout Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland on 24 January 2022. 

“It is fantastic to see Vector Lights get behind the Whale Tales public art trail. This trail is going to delight and enthrall whānau / ‘aiga all summer and to see it kick off with a stunning light show on the Harbour Bridge is perfect,” says Councillor Alf Filipaina, Chair of Auckland Council’s Parks, Arts, Community and Events Committee.

“Vector Lights is all about sustainability and the whale tales trail is highlighting the importance of sustaining a healthy population of the Bryde’s Whale – Tīkapa Moana’s resident whale species.

“I encourage everyone to enjoy the show, explore the art trail around the region and learn what role we all can play in protecting this amazing living taonga.”

The light show is presented by Vector Lights, in partnership with Vector, Auckland Council, Auckland Unlimited, and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.

Powered by a mix of leading technology, including solar, battery, and peer-to-peer systems, Vector Lights will transform the Waitematā Harbour ahead of the launch of Whale Tales 2022, the incredible outdoors art trail inspired by the Hauraki Gulf’s resident whale, the Bryde’s.

Celebrating Aotearoa New Zealand, art, and marine conservation, Whale Tales is running over the next 12 weeks in Auckland. There are 80 Tail sculptures designed by 80 artists, which will be auctioned later in the year to raise funds for WWF-New Zealand and their vital work for our oceans, and in particular the Hauraki Gulf and the Bryde’s whale.

Pronounced Broo-dus, Bryde’s whales are found in the coastal waters around the Tīkapa Moana / Te Moananui ā Toi / Hauraki Gulf. It is one of only three places in the world to have a resident, year-round, population. Unfortunately, they’re now nationally critical, with only 135 remaining.

“Bryde’s whales, our huge, beautiful local residents, are our forgotten whale. They are the largest species to call the Hauraki Gulf home but climate change, unsustainable fishing practises, plastic pollution, and other human activities are threatening their survival, and we are at risk of losing them forever from our waters. These whales are an indicator of ocean health, if our whale populations are healthy and thriving, it is a sign our ocean is also healthy and thriving,” says WWF-New Zealand’s CEO Livia Esterhazy.

With the spotlight on Bryde’s whales, everyone who participates in the Whale Tales journey and learns about these magnificent creatures will be supporting our mahi to save them and help restore the magically diverse Hauraki Gulf.

“We are so incredibly proud and honoured to work with Vector, Auckland Council, Auckland Unlimited, and Waka Kotahi to bring the tale of the Bryde’s whale to life across the Auckland Harbour Bridge. As the heart of the Gulf, it is fantastic to see it become part of the heart of the city. If ever a species deserved to have its name in lights, it’s this one. We are so excited for everyone to see this project come to life,” continues Esterhazy. 

“Vector Lights is once again lighting up the Waitematā Harbour with clean energy technology to celebrate Te Mauri o Waitematā and all of the species that call it home. The story we present symbolically illustrates the waka that travelled into the harbour, the mana whenua of Tāmaki Makaurau, the multicultural connections of our city, and the Bryde’s whale. We are thrilled to be a part of WWF-New Zealand’s Whale Tales,” says Matt Eastwood, Vector’s Group Manager of Marketing

Ataahua Papa, the artist behind the Vector Lights for Whale Tales show, and Lizzie Thomas, the artist who designed the Tail sponsored by Vector Lights, join other incredible artists from around Aotearoa, including Otis Frizzell, Gregory O’Brien, Cora Allan Wickliffe, Wētā Workshop and Jeff Thomson in bringing Whale Tales to life. 

Details

From 21-26 January there will be seven shows a night running every 30 minutes from 9pm until midnight. 

Starting 27 April – 3 May 2022, there will be 12 shows per night every 30 minutes from 6.30pm until midnight.

To watch the shows with audio, listen here. An audio link will appear when the show is about to start. 

The best spots to catch the Vector Lights show are:

• Little Shoal Bay, Northcote
• Auckland waterfront
• Bayswater Marina
• Mt Victoria, Devonport
• Harbour View Beach Reserve, Te Atatū Peninsula
• Queens Parade, Devonport
• Sentinel Beach, Herne Bay
• Bastion Point
• Mt Eden

For more information about Whale Tales, download the Whale Tales 2022 app. There you will find the trail map, sponsor deals, activities, and a whole lot more. Available via the App Store or Google Play.