It’s tough to avoid overeating. You might have a healthy meal at home, but once you step out and are surrounded by tempting junk food, your resolve can weaken. Or, maybe you stick to nutritious options, but they’re so delicious that you can’t help but reach for seconds. Here are some strategies to help curb your appetite.
When you let yourself get too hungry, you're more likely to overeat. This can lead to a cycle where, after overeating, your insulin levels spike, leaving you feeling tired and hungry again, causing you to overeat once more.
Instead of waiting until you're starving, eat when you're only slightly hungry. This helps you eat less and more slowly, which not only keeps your appetite in check but also gives you more energy throughout the day.
Regular, small snacks help regulate ghrelin, a hormone that controls hunger. For this strategy to work, the snack must be bland, and you should only drink water for at least an hour before and after eating it.
Try options like a small handful of unsalted almonds, a plain orange with a dash of cinnamon, or a small amount of watermelon. Even a tiny drizzle of olive oil with a sprinkle of sugar for energy can be effective. Doing this once a day can greatly reduce your overall appetite.
There’s a delay between eating food and feeling full—typically around 10 to 30 minutes. This means that if you eat quickly, you’re likely to consume more than you actually need. Eating slowly gives your brain time to catch up to your stomach, helping you stop when you're satisfied.
A simple trick is to chew each bite at least 10 times. This will not only help you slow down but also allow you to savor your food more, making each meal more enjoyable.
If you’re looking for ways to add flavor to your meals or drinks without sugar, try vinegar or cinnamon. Vinegar, which slows digestion, can add a tangy flavor to salad dressings, sauces, and roasted vegetables without adding many calories.
Cinnamon, which adds natural sweetness, also slows the rate at which food moves from your stomach to your intestines, helping you feel fuller for longer and preventing the post-meal energy slump.
Mild dehydration can sometimes feel like hunger, leading you to eat when all you really need is water. On the other hand, liquid calories—like juices and sodas—don’t fill you up, and they can cause rapid spikes in insulin.
Instead of sugary drinks, opt for water (still or sparkling). You can add a bit of flavour with lemon, strawberries, or cucumber, but keep it low-calorie.
Make it a goal to drink at least 8 glasses (or 2 liters) of water each day, and try drinking a glass about 20 minutes before each meal to help curb your appetite.
With these simple strategies, you can effectively manage your hunger and avoid overeating.
So it's time for a detox? Feeling sluggish, need to drop those couple of kilos or just need a really good pick me up. So how does detoxifying work?
Detoxifying is a cleansing of your blood and nourishing the body from the inside. Toxins are eliminated and nutrients replaced.
There are a number of things you can do when you detoxify your body but start with the obvious. Eliminate certain items including alcohol, cigarettes, caffine, processed foods saturated fats, refined sugars and cut down on (or give up) meat.
If you are not following a specific programme you should make sure you eat plenty of fibre. Brown rice and organic fresh fruits and vegetables and great.
Make sure you are drinking plenty of water. At least 2 litres a day should really be a normal intake, however, is vitally important during a detox to help flush your system out. Add a little fresh lemon juice.
Drink tea. Not only is it full of antioxidants but great as a thirst quencher. Herbal teas are usually the best option with green tea excellent in a detox.
Juicing is a popular form of detoxifying. Fresh organic fruit and vegetables are recommended. Green vegetable juice is good because they are rich in chlorophyll, which is said to help cleanse and heal the digestive tract.
Other juices good for a juice fast include celery, carrot, cabbage, apple, spinach, beets, and leafy greens. Remember to remove the stones in peaches, apricots, cherries and other fruit, apple seeds, carrot and rhubarb tops, and tough skins of kiwi, pineapple and mangos should be avoided.
Take care of the outside of your body too.
Make sure you exercise and sweat! Sweating is one of the body's natural ways of removing toxins. Whether through exercise or in a sauna you will feel better although be careful with the amount and type of exercise if on a strict detox programme.
Take deep breaths allowing oxygen to circulate throughout your system better.
Yoga is known for it's ability to detox by putting pressure on certain internal organs as well as helping to relieve stress being one of the major causes for needing to detox!
Exfoliating your skin is great to help remove toxins through your pores.
Get more sleep. Relax for at least an hour before you go to bed and drink a cup of camomile tea or other herbal sleep enhancing formula. Take time to relax your mind and try to get at least one extra hour than you normally do.
A massage can often be beneficial such as a Swedish massage, lymphatic drainage, deep tissue massage or Thai massage although do make sure you advise your massage therapist you are on a detox programme.
Other treatments suggested to benefit in a detox include colonics and hydrotherapy showers (5 minute very hot shower running over your back, 30 seconds cold water x 3 times followed by a complete relax in bed for 30 minutes)
However you decide to detox your body, do it carefully, follow the basic rules and you will come out cleansed and feeling like a million dollars!
Picture this: It's late, you're exhausted after a long day at work. The boss has been relentless with deadlines, and the stress has been building up. Suddenly, you feel a sharp pain in your chest that radiates down your arm. You're alone, about 8 km away from the nearest hospital or emergency room, and unsure if you can make it that far.
You know a bit about CPR, but no one ever told you how to apply it to yourself. Unfortunately, many people face heart attacks alone, and when the heart starts beating irregularly, you may only have about 10 seconds before losing consciousness. So, what can you do?
If you find yourself in this situation, start coughing vigorously and repeatedly. Before each cough, take a deep breath, and ensure that both the breaths and coughs are deep and forceful, like you're trying to clear your chest.
Repeat this cycle—deep breath, then deep cough—every two seconds without stopping, until help arrives or until you feel your heart return to a normal rhythm.
Why does this work? The deep breaths help oxygenate your lungs, and the forceful coughing compresses the heart, keeping blood circulating. This pressure may also help the heart reset its rhythm. In doing this, you might buy yourself enough time to get to help or for emergency services to arrive.
You've kicked off your summer fitness routine, and it feels great — at least for the first week. But then, small excuses start creeping in, and sticking to your commitments becomes harder. So, how do you maintain your momentum? Here are six easy strategies to keep your motivation high:
Start by defining what you want to achieve. Is it running 5km, climbing six flights of stairs without feeling winded, or feeling more confident in a summer outfit? Choose a realistic goal and write it down in the present tense, like, “I will do 30 sit-ups without stopping.” This helps turn your goal from a distant dream into an attainable reality.
Achieving fitness milestones is no small feat, so celebrate the wins along the way. Did you complete a full week of workouts without missing a session? Schedule a relaxing massage. Hit your daily step count consistently? Maybe it's time for new workout gear. The more enjoyable the journey, the more likely you are to stick with it.
Feeling bored with the same workout? Shake things up by trying something new. Attend a different fitness class, swap your regular cardio session for a swim, or explore a different style of exercise. Mixing things up keeps your routine exciting and gives you a fresh approach to staying fit.
One of the biggest challenges is finding time to work out. Make it easier by prepping everything you need ahead of time. Planning to run after work? Pack your gear and leave it by the front door so you can’t miss it. Want to work out in the morning? Lay out your clothes the night before, so all you need to do is roll out of bed and head out the door.
Even though your fitness journey is personal, you don’t have to go it alone. Invite a coworker to join you for a lunchtime class or find a local running group. A support system keeps you accountable and motivated, especially on days when you feel like skipping the workout. Share your goals with friends or online, too — the more support you receive, the more inspired you'll feel to keep pushing forward.
Sometimes, a fresh outfit can boost your enthusiasm for working out. Investing in flattering, functional workout clothes can make you feel more confident and excited to exercise. After all, when you "look good, you feel great," and you'll be more likely to stick to your routine with a bit of extra motivation.
By incorporating these tips into your routine, you'll be better equipped to maintain your motivation and reach your fitness goals with confidence.
Disclaimer: Our online business directory lists over 2,200 local businesses however be aware it is an almost impossible task for this to always be completely up-to-date so please use as a guide only - if you find any discrepancies please let us know on hibiscuscoast@linku2.co.nz - thank you!
When it comes to property it can be daunting. It doesn't matter whether you are looking at buying or selling a property, up-sizing or down-sizing, investing for your future, doing a few touch ups round the house or garden, considering a whole new build or just need a little maintenance or tender loving care it's all going to cost money and you want to get it right!
That's where you are in luck on the Coast as, you may not believe it, but construction is our biggest industry, and we have all the local experts you need to help and, if you are buying or selling, being the second highest most populated area (and continuing to grow rapidly) in Auckland, there's no lack of properties available and agents to help you find what you want!
First and foremost you can find all types of local businesses in the Property Section of our Linku2 Hibiscus Coast business directory, whether you're looking for a bricklayer, hedge trimmer, lighting store, mortgage broker, security service or more ...
It doesn't matter whether you are a first home buyer, a growing family, want to downsize for retirement or sell to free up funds, you will need to ensure you seek the services of a few experienced people along the way.
When looking for a real estate company or agent there are a few pointers you can follow including their experience in the area you are selling in or hoping to buy in. Check out local options in our directory Real Estate category and one recommendation who knows the Coast well, as well as having a background in marketing is Tim Hansen (As noted above this list is by no means comprehensive or completely up-to-date but a guide - it's an ever changing industry and many agents aren't listed)!!
As well as help from an agent you may also need to consider finance. Remember don't just call your local bank and expect to get the best deal. The best option is to contact a mortgage broker who can help and probably save you a lot of money (and perhaps heartache) in the process.
First Rate Mortgages based in Orewa can help you with not just home loans and finance but can also focus on arranging business finance, residential or commercial property investment, construction finance, refinancing, and debt consolidation. Alongside First Rate, their sister company NonBk Ltd "Solving Problems with Solutions" can be a great option to call upon if you are self-employed, looking for second mortgages or maybe have a bit of a financial past that may rear it's head if you're not careful! Check out what they can do for you or contact them on 09-426-8927 or info@firstratemortgages.co.nz or solutions@nonbank.co.nz depending on the service you need.
Another option is iLender based in Whangaparaoa, Jeff is a "Financial Paramedic" and as he advises, "When looking for home finance seek out an experienced Mortgage Adviser who can look at all of the bank and non bank options so you can go looking for a new home with confidence. Local business iLender has helped 100's of people over the years (read their reviews) and Jeff Royle is happy to discuss any situation either over the phone or pop into the office in Karepiro Drive. A lot of people get knocked back by their bank and think that's the end of the line. It is not! Jeff and his team cover all lending options ensuring that you get the best possible advice. 09-428-5333 or help@ilender.co.nz"
Check out a comprehensive local list of mortgage brokers and financial services.
You may also be wise to consult your accountant, especially if this is an investment property or you need help with Kiwisaver withdrawals. If you don't have an accountant you may want to give Keri-Ann a call at ABA - Associated Business Advisors who have a team who specialise in all aspects of financial accounting. Another option would be to have a chat with Gerard at Turnbull & Associates in Whangaparaoa or check out our comprehensive list of local accountants and bookkeepers.
Again if you are looking at buying new off a house and land package, organising your own build, want to do some upgrades to your home or garden or just need to get some maintenance done you don't need to look far to find a local expert.
If you want to ramp up the security at your place then you need to talk to Jason at King Locksmiths who can ensure your place and your valuables are safe and secure and advise on the best systems and management for your pace of mind, or, if it's an alarm system or maintenance you're after give Trevor a call at TDS Security.
If it's garden maintenance you're after then call in Jake from Allout Hedge and Tree Maintenance. He can help with anything from hedge trimming, tree pruning or removal, land clearing, green waste removal and is happy to advise on what you should do. If however you are into DIY and need tools and time to get things done or just need garden tool maintenance then the person to call is Hal at Peninsula Mowers and Heating Ltd. That garden really can be a haven to enjoy once you give it that makeover!
And if all you feel is important to get done is a good house clean and, especially if you have a wish to be friendly to our environment then you can guarantee the best cleaning products are available right here on the Coast from Stephanie at Insinc Products.
There has been, and continues to be, so much development across the Hibiscus Coast so if you're looking for a local you can check out our directory categories for all services such as Builders and Developers, Property Maintenance, Bathroom and Kitchen Design Services, Plumbers, Storage, Carpet Retailers, Pool and Spa Services and everything in between in our Property Section.
Regardless of what it is you need or should be doing locally make sure you stay and use our great locals so we can all help each other to Go Local, Grow Local ...
Decorating - Colour Schemes - Bring a Taste of Tuscany into your Home Renovation - Checklist When Buying a House - 10 Tips on How to Fix a Tired Property: How to Prepare Your House for Sale - Tips and Tricks for Avoiding Lockouts from Your House or Car
Choosing a colour scheme for a room can seem daunting, but here’s a straightforward approach to create a balanced, cohesive look.
Step 1: Start with a Pattern: Most rooms already feature a pattern, unless this is a new build, whether it’s in a rug, artwork, bedspread, or upholstery. Starting with a pattern makes it easier to build a color palette, rather than trying to find a pattern to fit an existing scheme. The colours in your pattern will guide the room’s overall palette. If you are starting with a clean slate then decide if you want to introduce any pattern forms.
Step 2: Pick Three Colours: From your pattern or palette, choose three key colours: one light, one medium, and one dark. These will form the basis of your colour scheme.
Step 3: Use the Light Colour for the Background: Apply the lightest shade to the walls and floor. If the colour feels too intense, consider toning it down with white or gray. For a grounded look, make the floor slightly darker than the walls and ceiling.
Step 4: Use the Medium Colour on Larger Items: The medium tone should be used on larger pieces, such as window treatments and furniture. Ideally, these items should complement the wall and floor colour to maintain a harmonious look.
Step 5: Accent with the Darker Colour: Add the darkest colour through accessories and smaller furniture. These accents bring depth and interest to the room. Balance the placement of these accents to ensure the room feels cohesive, with the eye naturally drawn to the darker, bolder elements.
Our environment has a subtle yet profound effect on our moods and well-being, often without us being fully aware of it. A thoughtfully designed home remodel can capture a specific atmosphere, like bottling a fine wine, letting you enjoy that mood every day. Tuscan design embodies the craftsmanship, history, and spirit of Renaissance Italy, infusing your home with the charm of Florence, Siena, Pisa, and the Tuscan countryside.
That said, Tuscan style is not for every home—it’s bold and sensory. The colours are rich and warm, and materials like stone and specialty tiles can be expensive. However, if you’re drawn to this aesthetic, it can be achieved, sometimes more affordably than you might expect.
A great entry point into Tuscan design is through its distinctive colour palette. Many Tuscan-inspired remodels start with paint. Burnt sienna, a warm, earthy shade reminiscent of a sunset, is a hallmark of Tuscan style. The palette reflects the natural landscape of Tuscany, with shades of deep blue-green from the Tyrrhenian Sea, vibrant blue skies, and the golden hues of sunflowers.
The living room is an ideal space to experiment with these bold colours since it’s a neutral area where strong hues won’t affect sleep or meal times. If painting the kitchen, remember to harmonize the colours with the room’s dominant tones.
Tuscan-style flooring typically includes terracotta tiles, travertine, tumbled stone, and wood planks. Handcrafted terracotta tiles, fired to a hard, durable finish, have a timeworn surface that complements antique-style wall finishes. The iconic burnt sienna colour comes from Siena, a Tuscan city where the clay is mined and fired to achieve its reddish-brown hue.
Tumbled stone or travertine tiles are another option, with their textured surfaces and rounded edges evoking the look of floors that have seen centuries of wear. Distressed wood planks, typically six inches wide, add an antique feel with pre-aged impressions, enhancing the rustic charm.
If a full Tuscan remodel feels too much, consider starting with the kitchen. Tuscany is closely associated with hearty, flavourful cuisine—porchetta, pasta, olive oil, and more—so it’s a natural fit for this style.
Tuscan kitchens often feature solid wood cabinetry with dark stains and intricate detailing. Stone veneer is frequently used to frame the oven or stove with a dramatic arched surround. For a budget-friendly touch, consider a premium Italian tile backsplash, focusing on a small area like behind the stove or adding accent tiles to bring in a touch of Tuscan flair.
Stonework, even when replicated with manufactured stone veneer, is central to Tuscan design. This cost-effective alternative mimics real quarried stone, offering the timeless look of Old World craftsmanship without the expense or complexity of traditional stone installation.
When purchasing an existing house, there are several key things you should check. Here’s a summary:
Ask the agent and seller about any known issues with the house. They have a duty of care to research and disclose any matters that could be of concern.
Inspect the house thoroughly, paying special attention to:
You should also pay attention and look for any signs of potential leaking, eg:
You should also:
Do not sign the contract until you are sure it meets your needs and all concerns have been addressed.
In a move aimed at providing tax relief for individuals and families, New Zealand has unveiled significant updates to its tax brackets 2024 as part of the Government Budget, announced on 30th May. These changes take effect from 31 July 2024. These changes include changes to:
For further details on these changes please check out this comprehensive blog post brought to you by ABA Chartered Accountants. Simple Accounting, Simple Life!
For many, the idea of starting a fitness routine, especially when you're out of shape, can be intimidating. You might have a goal in mind, but where do you begin? How long should you walk or run? How fast? How often? Here are some tips and tools to help you kick-start your new fitness journey.
It’s natural to compare yourself to others who might be faster or more experienced, but don’t let that discourage you. Embrace your current fitness level and focus on making small, consistent improvements. Simply starting and doing more than you did before is a significant accomplishment in itself.
Wearing the right shoes is crucial when walking or running. Your shoes provide the foundation for your exercise, so it’s important to choose a pair that fits well and offers good support, especially around your ankles. If possible, seek advice from a specialty running shop, but at the very least, ensure your shoes are comfortable and supportive.
One common mistake is trying to increase both speed and distance simultaneously. Instead, set a clear goal for each workout: will you focus on going farther today or faster? Concentrate on one aspect at a time to avoid burnout and injury.
Exercising with a friend can make the experience more enjoyable and less intimidating. Whether you’re walking or jogging, having someone to talk to can make the time pass quickly and turn your workout into a social activity.
Don’t hesitate to seek guidance. Training plans are designed to help you progress safely from your current level to where you want to be. There are many tools and apps available that can guide you through the process step by step.
It’s normal to have days when you don’t feel like exercising. Try not to let these days derail your routine. Reach out to a friend for motivation, join a group, or just push through, knowing you’ll feel better once you’ve made the effort.
If you really need to take a rest day, don’t be too hard on yourself. Use the break to recharge, and get back on track the next day. Sometimes, a day off can even boost your motivation for your next workout.
Starting a fitness routine is a journey, and every step forward is progress. Remember to be patient with yourself, and enjoy the process of becoming more active and healthy.
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To find a range of local businesses who can help you with what you may need to FIX check out our Local Business Quick Guide.
Networking is a crucial component of business success. It enables you to connect with people who can help you grow your business, gain insights into other industries, learn new ideas, and of course, discover potential customers. However, finding new clients shouldn’t be your sole focus when networking.
For shy individuals, networking can feel particularly daunting. The fear of rejection, lack of confidence, and feeling unworthy can make it seem overwhelming. But with the right approach, you can overcome these fears and recognize the immense value that networking can bring to your business and your personal development as a business professional.
Here are some tips to help you navigate networking with confidence:
Be Prepared: If you’re worried about freezing up or getting tongue-tied in social settings, prepare in advance. Think of a few ice-breaker questions you can ask people you meet to start conversations more easily.
Start with Familiarity: If approaching strangers feels intimidating, begin by seeking out people you already know. Familiar faces can make the environment feel less overwhelming.
Attend Events with a Friend or Colleague: Going to an event with someone you’re comfortable with can boost your confidence, especially if your companion is an extrovert. They can introduce you to people they know and encourage you to engage with others.
Don’t Continuously Apologize: Constantly apologizing can signal insecurity. Remember, you don’t need to apologize for seeking help or wanting to learn more about the person you’re speaking with.
Overcome Your Fear of Rejection: In networking, you may encounter people who are unable or unwilling to help. Don’t take it personally or dwell on it; it’s just part of the process.
Remember That Networking Is Two-Way: You might feel you have nothing significant to offer in return for someone’s help, but you likely have more to give than you realize. And even if you don’t, not every interaction needs to be a transaction—sometimes just building a connection is valuable.
Arrive Early: Don’t make the mistake of arriving late. It’s much easier to establish a presence in a room before it gets crowded and people start forming small groups. Arriving early gives you a better chance to mingle and make connections.
Create and Refine Your Elevator Pitch: Prepare a concise 15-30 second pitch that explains who you are, what you do, and how others can benefit from connecting with you. Having this ready can make breaking the ice much easier, but make sure it doesn’t sound overly rehearsed. Keep it simple, clear, and authentic.
Most importantly, be yourself: Don’t try to be someone you’re not. If you’re naturally humble and shy, embrace it—authenticity can be endearing. It’s okay to be a little awkward, just avoid over-apologizing for it.
By following these tips, you can navigate networking events with greater confidence and make the most of the opportunities they offer.
To find a range of local businesses who can help you with what you may need to FIX check out our Local Business Quick Guide.
Let’s face it, car tyres aren’t something most people think to budget for in their day-to-day expenses, but they are essential and important. So, should you invest in premium brands, or are budget tyres sufficient?
When choosing car tyres, it’s crucial to consider your driving needs before deciding on the type of tyre. Do you drive long distances on motorways? Or are you mostly a lower-speed, around-town driver? There’s a wide range of tyres available to suit nearly every type of vehicle and driving style.
When we think of premium tyres, names like Goodyear, Michelin, Pirelli, and Bridgestone often come to mind - brands that can deflate your bank account faster than your last blowout. Budget brands, on the other hand, are the most affordable options on the market and can be much easier on your wallet.
In New Zealand, all tyres sold are required to meet specific safety standards, which ensures a baseline level of quality and safety. Interestingly, many budget tyre brands are owned by the major players in tyre research, who are keen to capture a share of the budget market.
In reality, no one can definitively say that a budget tyre will fail or that a premium tyre will never fail. The performance and longevity of a tyre largely depend on your driving habits and how well you maintain them.
Buying a budget tyre doesn’t necessarily mean compromising on quality; in fact, many budget tyres are manufactured using the same techniques as their premium counterparts.
Some argue that budget tyres don’t last as long as premium ones, but there’s no fixed lifespan for tyres—it all depends on how you drive and care for them. Regularly checking and maintaining the correct tyre pressure, which is usually listed on the driver’s door pillar, can significantly extend tyre life and save you money. Underinflated tyres increase road friction, causing them to wear out faster and your car to use more fuel. Additionally, it’s important to ensure all four tyres have the same tread pattern for optimal performance.
It’s also wise to consult with a tyre professional. They have the expertise to advise you on factors like wet and dry handling, tread noise, off-road traction, and more, helping you choose the best option for your driving needs.
In the end, budget tyres are not unsafe and can be both reliable and economical. As long as you’re not planning a high-speed tour around New Zealand, budget tyres can offer great value and make practical sense.
To find a range of local businesses who can help you with what you may need to FIX check out our Local Business Quick Guide.
When getting your home ready to attract potential buyers, there are several important steps you can take to maximize its appeal.
1. Start by emotionally detaching from the house. Shift your mindset from seeing it as your "home" to viewing it as a property that’s ready to be sold. If this is difficult, imagine yourself in the new home you’re hoping to buy, handing over the keys and moving on.
2. Depersonalise the space by removing personal items like family photos and mementos from visible surfaces. Creating clear and uncluttered spaces helps buyers envision their own belongings in the room, making it easier for them to imagine living there.
3. Don’t overlook the small details. Simple updates like replacing old kitchen cabinet knobs with modern ones can quickly refresh a space. The same applies to bathrooms - swapping out towel rails, toilet roll holders, and adding plush towels or decorative soaps can elevate the room’s style.
4. Invest some effort into deep cleaning. Ensure windows are spotless, cobwebs are removed, walls are wiped down, furniture is dusted, faucets are polished, and dirty grout is bleached. These tasks can make your home feel fresh and well-maintained, particularly in the kitchen and bathroom, which are key areas of interest for buyers.
5. Enhance the exterior by adding a few brightly colored potted plants near entrances, on decks, or along garden edges. These touches can create an inviting atmosphere and can be taken with you when you move. Additionally, tidy the garden, trim hedges, and mow the lawn to boost your home’s curb appeal. If you need help or advice with this give Jake a call at Allout Hedge and Tree Maintenance Ltd and check out their landscaping support they can give you with that first impression!
6. Make sure the entrance to your home is decluttered and welcoming. Since this is one of the first impressions buyers will have of the interior, you want it to feel open and inviting, not cramped or cluttered.
7. Evaluate the overall curb appeal of your home. Consider if the exterior needs a fresh coat of paint, or if the deck could use some staining. Even small updates, like replacing house numbers or adding a new welcome mat, can make a big difference in creating a positive first impression.
8. Organize closets and cupboards, especially walk-in wardrobes, as buyers are likely to peek inside. Neat, well-organized storage spaces not only look more attractive but also make packing easier when it’s time to move.
9. If your home is crowded with furniture, think about renting a storage unit. Reducing the amount of furniture can make your home feel more spacious and appealing to a broader range of buyers. Decluttering in general will also help create a more open and inviting atmosphere.
10. Finally, after completing these preparations, take a step back and evaluate your home from a buyer's perspective. Drive up to the house and walk through it as if you were seeing it for the first time. If anything catches your eye in a negative way, address it before listing the property.
By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to present your home to potential buyers, setting the stage for a successful sale and paving the way for your next move.
To find a range of local businesses who can help you with what you may need to FIX check out our Local Business Quick Guide.
Transforming a plain deck or garden into a vibrant outdoor oasis can be a fun and rewarding endeavor. Here are some creative ideas to add color, texture, and personality to your space:
These ideas will help you transform your deck or garden into a lively and inviting outdoor space that reflects your style and enhances your enjoyment of the outdoors.
With our Feature theme being "Time Out" everyone has a different idea of their own time out space. For some it may be spending time with friends and family, for others it could be heading to the gym or a yoga class, others it's getting out into nature, tending the garden, reading a book, knitting or it could be something as simple as having a long, soothing bath.
Whatever your way is of having time out there are lots of local options you can find to indulge. Just a few locals to keep in mind include gym, swim or excersie time out could be spent at Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre or Northern Arena. If you want time away from the little ones you could enrol them for a few weekly sessions at Fame Preschool and then take yourself to the gym, a lovely beach walk or head to the golf course. You may love fishing at the weekend with the kids!
If you would like to indulge yourself in a relaxing facial or look good with treatments such as brows, lashes or other beauty treatments check out Queens Beauty now in Stanmore Bay. Perhaps treat the family to a portrait session and create those special memories with Photo Carnival. If you're keen to get out in the garden and want to put time into your garden you may want to check out tools to make this an easier rather than arduous task with range of outdoor power tools from Peninsula Mowers and Heating, or if youd rather just head out for a coffee or drink with friends or dinner out with the family head to Destination Orewa where you'll find so many great cafes, restaurants, bars and of course our magnificent Orewa Beach!
If you are looking in general for time out activities you may find yourself a new hobby from all the clubs and groups we have here on the Coast, you can find a good list of all cafes, restaurants, bars, takeaways, bakeries and more in our Dining Section, you can find beauty, hairdressers, massage, exercise options and more in our Health, Beauty, Medical and Wellness Section. If it's a bit of retail therapy you're after you'll find all local options in our Shopping/ Retail Section. If you are looking for great activities you can find links for fishing, golf, cycling, water sports and more in our Sport & Recreation Section or if you want to find Things to Do, walks, cycleways, beaches, playgrounds and more you'll find these in our Travel, Tourism and Local Activities Section.
It's important for everyone to take "Time Out" and even if it's just reading fun facts or getting ideas why not check out the articles we have brought to you in our very own "Time Out" Feature.
