Saturday, May 2, 2026

Rural

Angling and mental health benefits

A New Zealand study of nearly 1,900 anglers, the largest of its kind globally, has shown that fishing can significantly boost wellbeing and mental...

PHOTOS: Country fun all round

Schools around Franklin braved downpours and strong winds (with finally some sunshine thrown in) in September, as they celebrated their country roots with agriculture...

Adoption centre rehomes more than 100 dogs

More than 112 dogs have been rehomed by the Pukekohe Adoption and Education Centre (PAC) as the facility marked six months of being open...

New Zealand’s 2025 Bird of the Year revealed

After an early lead, the kārearea New Zealand falcon has kept its talons firmly on the top spot as it snatched the crown in...

Shelter gives Māori bird names to dogs this week

A Franklin dog shelter is this week honouring Te Wiki o te Reo Māori and Bird of the Year, naming its canines Māori bird...

An unexpected arrival

By Natalie Pitfield When you live on a lifestyle block, you’re well aware that planning can be tricky. My friends have come to expect...

Franklin ag day dates

Agricultural Day (ag day/calf club/country day/pet day etc) is a key day on the event calendar for rural and country schools across Franklin. The purpose of...

Game bird season draws to a close

Early indications suggest the 2025 game bird season has been another successful year for New Zealand's hunting community. Fish & Game New Zealand said survey...

Ag day season begins

As spring weather begins to appear, Patumahoe sisters Annie and Emily Crisp are busy preparing for the Mauku School Country Life Day. Annie, 8, is...

Greener glove option vet industry

A Franklin-based vet has developed new more sustainable, recycled plastic shoulder-length examination gloves, which are now available nationwide. Jennifer Stone was recently named one of...