Monthly Archives: April 2015

S.M., Honiara.

May I spread the good news about the economies that can be derived from a very simple piece of kitchen equipment: the spatula. Not only will it ensure that every last drop of cake mix is saved but it also has a knock on effect of saving soap and water in the washing up bowl […]

Lorraine, Whakatane.

I use the inner tops off yoghurt half litre pottles of cottage cheese etc to separate layers of food for the freezer. Saves using plastic, and can be re-used over and over. I also find the white newsprint type paper that supermarkets wrap some goods in can make a good lining for my fridge vege […]

P.L., Auckland

It’s possible to cut travel costs and enjoy driving free rental cars and campervans in New Zealand by checking out the online transfer deals. Most of the time drivers also receive a free tank of petrol! How does this work? Rental car companies need to reposition their fleet for new hires and usually spend large […]

Thrifty, Hamilton

Use a small squirt of shampoo to a cup or two of water to clean house plant leaves. It doesn’t need to froth. Wipe mixture on leaves. No need to rinse. Result is nice glossy leaves without using a leaf shine.

Thrifty, Hamilton

To keep flies out of the house wipe door-jambs, window frames and the inside glass with undiluted vinegar. Any vinegar will do. White vinegar added to window cleaning water will also keep them off the windows. To clear the house of flies boil up a cup of vinegar on the stove. You’ll get one or […]

Thrifty, Hamilton

The best and cheapest exfoliate you can buy is a ladies frilly nylon bath sponge available at $2 shops or the big red shed for about $3 (at the time of writing). I just use water with the sponge on my face and my favourite body wash for the rest of me then moisturise. Simple.

Katy, Whangarei

Always, always check your till receipt after doing your grocery shopping. It is rare not to find mistakes which have cost you money. The shop computer and the shelf prices don’t always match and the staff are always happy to remedy this.

P.B., Auckland

When my husband and I were married 13 years ago, (2nd time round), when we sent out the invitations we put on the bottom BYO gents, ladies a plate (starter, main or desert). This was a huge success, with guests saying that it was the best wedding that that they had been to!

Rats and mice

Paul from Northland has this question: “The colder weather is bringing uninvited guests into the house – rats, mice and ants! I do not want to use expensive poisons. Does anyone have any suggestions how I can keep these pesky critters out of the house?”