DISASTER ON DISPLAY

On Saturday Aotea Square will be home to a disaster welfare centre as Red Cross and Auckland Emergency Management help Kiwis get ready for emergencies. The public will be able to get a close look at emergency gear, check out how a welfare centre in a disaster zone works and find out what it takes to respond to some of New Zealand’s biggest disasters. There will also be interactive first aid demonstrations, giveaways and heaps of handy tips on how families can get prepared for emergencies. The free event runs from 11am to 2pm.

AUCKLAND RETAIL RATES WELL

Auckland businesses performed well at the Retail NZ Top Shop Excellence Awards in Auckland last week. Global Baby from Epsom was named best small retailer and received the visual merchandising award. It was also named runner up for the national supreme award. Lush from Sylvia Park received the innovation award, beating the Wildzone Gift Shop at Auckland Zoo which was highly commended. Grieve Diamond Jeweller from Hastings was crowned the country’s Top Shop.

AGE VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT

Age Concern’s Accredited Visiting Service is seeking volunteers to meet with friends over 65 once a week for about an hour. Volunteers are police checked. Areas where volunteers are needed are Ellerslie, Hillsborough, Pt Chevalier and Mt Wellington. If you would like to volunteer, or if someone you know needs company, is over 65 and is willing and able to be part of a new friendship, contact Jenny for more information on 09 820 2714 or email jennyb@ageconak.org.nz.

DELIVERY CHANGES

A reminder that delivery of the East and Bays Courier is changing. From October 4 the paper will go from being delivered twice weekly on Wednesday and Friday to once a week delivery on Wednesday. The September 13 edition incorrectly stated that the paper would be delivered on a Thursday. We apologise for any confusion.