WINTER READY
Caring for the exterior of your home
Over winter your house has a hard time with rain, limited sunshine and the appearance of mould dirt and cobwebs clinging to the exterior
Summer is the time to give the exterior of your home some well-deserved love. By cleaning the outside of your home once a year, this will help preserve the paintwork and roof.
Patio and decking
Then there is your patio and decking
Make sure that there is no rot, broken steps or lose boards and if so, have them replaced or repaired Quite often in winter decks are shaded and grow moss, algae and attract grime They can get quite slippery, so they need a good scrub
Guttering, driveway, and vents
Warm days are a good time to clean out all the guttering ready for next winter and to spray your roof for mold Check your driveway as it may need a good spray and trim back any vegetation that is growing close to your home
Make sure that all openings to your home, such as covers, dampers, and vents, are functional and clean They should be securely attached with screens where needed You should also make sure that they do not have any build up, such as lint on a dryer vent
Check
Make sure you check for any leaking outside taps, broken gate latches and give your boundary fence a good check over While you are at it and in your work clothes, you may
so that is ready to go when needed
Tidy the trees
Remove any low or broken branches from your trees and give them a good mulch to help retain moisture over the summer months
If you have trees needing professional trimming, a qualified tree surgeon can advise on options available
Don’t forget the garage
With the BBQ out of the garage, deck chairs on the deck, it might be a good chance to tackle the old thorn in the side cleaning the garage!
WINTER READY
Winter-Proof Your Home
Gutter and roof maintenance
Maintaining your house during the winter in New Zealand is crucial to ensure it remains comfortable, safe, and in good condition. Here are some key aspects to focus on:
Insulation and heating
Proper insulation is essential to keep your home warm and energy efficient
Check the insulation in your roof, walls, and floors, and consider upgrading if necessary Ensure your heating system is in good working order Heat pumps, wood burners, and electric heaters are popular choices Regularly service your heating appliances to ensure they operate efficiently and safely
Ventilation
Good ventilation helps prevent condensation, which can lead to mould and mildew Open windows daily to allow fresh air to circulate and reduce moisture buildup Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove excess humidity. Consider installing a ventilation system to maintain a healthy indoor environment
We are a local family owned and operated business based in the Far North, Est. 2009.
We offer supply, installation, repairs, service and maintenance.
We can quote, design & supply custom made systems to suit your needs.
Refrigeration
• Milk Vats • Marine • Cool Rooms • Ice Makers
• Commercial Refrigeration • Hot Water Heat Pumps Automotive
• Machinery • Agricultural • Vehicles
• Transport Refrigeration Heat Pumps
• Ventilation
• Ducted Systems
• Fresh Air Systems
• Extract Systems
Autumn leaves and debris can clog gutters, leading to water damage during winter rains Clean your gutters and downspouts regularly to ensure proper drainage Inspect your roof for any signs of damage, such as missing or broken tiles, and repair them promptly Moss and lichen can also cause damage, so consider a professional roof treatment to remove these growths
Exterior cleaning
Winter moisture can lead to the growth of algae, mildew, and mould on your home’s exterior Schedule an exterior house wash before winter sets in to remove accumulated dirt and sterilize surfaces This not only maintains your homes appearance but also protects its structural integrity
Window and door seals
Check for drafts around windows and doors Use weather stripping or caulk to seal any gaps and prevent cold air from entering your home This will help maintain a consistent indoor temperature and reduce heating costs
Plumbing protection
Wrap exposed pipes with insulation to prevent them from freezing and bursting during cold snaps Check for any leaks and repair them promptly
Ensure your hot water cylinder is insulated to retain heat and improve energy efficiency
Garden and outdoor areas
Trim overhanging branches that could break and cause damage during storms
Stake plants to protect them from strong winds Clear pathways of moss and algae to prevent slippery surfaces
Bring outdoor furniture and equipment under cover to protect them from the elements
Emergency preparedness
Winter storms can cause power outages and other emergencies Keep an emergency kit with essentials such as torches, batteries, blankets, and non-perishable food Ensure your home insurance is up to date and covers winter-related damages
Warmth, Airflow, and Comfort: The Essentials of a Healthy Home
As the colder months settle in across Northland, many of us are turning our attention to how we can make our homes warmer, drier, and healthier. Heating, cooling, and ventilation aren’t just about comfort—they play a crucial role in maintaining a safe and healthy living environment, especially through winter.
eated home is vital for wellbeing damp houses can increase the respiratory illnesses, especially in der adults, and those with existing itions Heat pumps remain a d efficient option for many Kiwi When correctly sized and installed, iver quick, cost-effective warmth as a cooling solution in summer
ter a more traditional approach, ers continue to be a reliable and ating source Modern, cleandels are designed to reduce while keeping your home toasty is another common choice, sistent warmth, though ventilation y important when using unflued
he heating method, insulation is hout it, homes lose a significant warmth through the roof, walls, Curtains also play a major role in cold out and the heat in look for ned options and ensure they’re sk to trap warmth ortant is good ventilation While m counterintuitive to let cold winter, fresh air helps prevent
condensation, mould, and mildew issues that are all too common in Northland’s damp climate Opening windows briefly each day, using extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and installing passive vents or home ventilation systems can help maintain a healthy airflow
Dehumidifiers can also be useful in areas where ventilation is limited By reducing excess moisture in the air, they help prevent the growth of mould and create a more comfortable environment
For those building or renovating, consider the layout and orientation of your home North-facing windows capture sunlight and warmth, while clever design can reduce the need for heating altogether Investing in double glazing and draft-stopping measures will also make a big difference in both comfort and power bills
A cosy home isn’t just about temperature it’s about air quality, moisture levels, and energy efficiency Whether you live in a coastal bach or a suburban home, paying attention to heating, cooling, and ventilation will help you and your whānau stay warm, well, and resilient this winter and beyond
WINTER READY
STEP INTO WINTER RIGHT: Why the Right F twear Matters
Watures drop, staying active can feel like a challenge but for many Northlanders, winter is just another season to keep moving Whether you’re a dedicated runner, a weekend walker, or just trying to stay healthy, one thing becomes even more important in winter: wearing the right shoes
At Smiths Sports Shoes Whangārei, owner Niki Robinson and her team are passionate about helping people stay active, safe, and pain-free all year round “We’re not just here to sell shoes,” says Niki “Our goal is to make sure every customer finds the right fit for their lifestyle especially in the colder months, when the wrong footwear can lead to slips, strains, or even injury ”
Located on Cameron Street, Smiths Sports Shoes has been a trusted name in Northland for nearly 30 years What sets them apart? A genuine commitment to personalised service, backed by expert advice and cutting-edge tools like video gait analysis This in-store service allows trained staff to assess your walking or running style, ensuring you get the right support, stability, and comfort all tailored to your unique biomechanics
Winter can bring added challenges: wet pavements, uneven terrain, or chilly morning jogs That’s why Niki recommends choosing shoes with proper grip, cushioning, and weather-appropriate features “Many customers also come in for help transitioning their exercise routine whether thats moving from outdoor trails to the gym or gearing up for winter sports ”
The store’s extensive range includes specialist styles for running, walking, gym training, and outdoor activities with options suited to all ages and fitness levels Smiths Sports Shoes also offers in-store podiatrist consultations, giving customers access to expert advice that can prevent discomfort and support longterm wellbeing
Their range continues to grow too with the recent addition of Allbirds a globally loved brand now stocked exclusively in Northland at Smiths Made from natural materials like merino wool and eucalyptus fibre, Allbirds shoes are soft, breathable and incredibly
lightweight perfect for everyday wear and travelling
One recent customer, after months of unexplained foot pain and medical tests, found relief simply by being fitted with the right pair of shoes “It’s stories like this that remind us why we do what we do ” says Niki
If you’re planning to stay active this winter or even heading overseas for some sunshine now’s the perfect time to check in with the team at Smiths Sports Shoes Your feet (and joints) will thank you for it.
Smiths Sports shoes
Half
Niki Robinson
WINTER READY
Stay Well This Winter:
WELLNESS CHECKS AND SPIROMETRY TO SUPPORT RESPIRATORY HEALTH AND MANAGE RESPIRATORY HEALTH CONDITIONS.
ival of winter, managing espiratory conditions like Obstructive Pulmonary d Asthma become more er Cooler weather can respiratory symptoms over rease in colds, flu and chest port whānau living with ons over the winter months, available for enrolled , or at risk of, respiratory with your general practice to and availability of respiratory Below are some of the available supports
Immunisations
If you are living with COPD or Asthma, immunisations are a line of defence against worsening respiratory symptoms
• Pneumococcal vaccine
The pneumococcal immunisation decreases the risk of serious respiratory infections, such as pneumonia
The international COPD guidelines recommend a dose of live vaccine (in NZ, this is Prevnar 13) followed by a dose of Polysaccharide vaccine (in NZ, this is Pneumovax 23) Speak to your healthcare
provider for further information
• Boostrix
The Boostrix immunisation (Dtap) protects against whooping cough, tetanus and diphtheria bacteria – which affects the nose and throat Boostrix is funded for eligible individuals
• Flu
The flu vaccine is updated annually and helps protect against the latest strain of flu viruses
People aged 65 years and over, or 6 months and over with a long-term medical condition like diabetes, asthma or COPD are eligible for funded flu immunisations
Funded Immunisations
Mahitahi Hauora funds Boostrix and Pneumococcal vaccines for Māori, Pacific, and / or CSC holders living with COPD, for patients enrolled with a Mahitahi Hauora member general practice See ‘Find a General Practice’ under the For Whānau section of the Mahitahi Hauora website (www mahitahihauora co nz) to check if your general practice is part of our network, across Te Tai Tokerau, for eligibility
Spirometry
Spirometry is a breathing test that measures
how well your lungs are working A spirometry test involves you blowing directly into a machine, called a spirometer This will measure how much air you can blow out, and how fast It is an important test to diagnose respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD It is also important for monitoring existing asthma or
COPD, including how well current treatments or medications are working How often you should come back to have a spirometry test depends on your results, risk and current condition, and can be advised by your healthcare provider
WINTER READY
Where Stories Live: the barn @ 106
There’s a certain kind of magic you feel the moment you step into the barn @ 106 It’s in the warmth of aged timber, the quiet charm of vintage finds, and the way light plays across textures that tell a story
This isn’t just a store it’s a space that breathes A curated blend of vintage, industrial, and contemporary pieces, each one handpicked for its character, craftsmanship, and soul From hand-beaten metal pots to reclaimed timber benches, every item carries a whisper of the past and a promise for the future
“Collect things you love, and your home becomes a story ”
That’s the philosophy behind the barn @ 106 Owner Donna has created a space that feels more like a sanctuary than a showroom It’s a place to slow down, to browse, to be inspired. Whether you’re renovating, refreshing, or simply searching for that one perfect piece, this is where you’ll find it
“I once read that a home should feel collected, not decorated and it resonated with me ”
Here, you’ll find one-off treasures made in traditional ways pieces with patina, texture, and ‘old soul’ Cushions, throws, rustic pots, and furniture that feels lived-in and loved Its the kind of place where you discover something you didnt know you needed or the perfect gift that speaks volumes
So, come in Have a coffee Let your senses wander Let your home tell your story
