Whangarei Edition

Vol. 302-1  May 4, 2026

Phone: 021 421 346


Everybody's Talking

Lunar clue: A meteorite found in Africa is offering scientists rare insight into the moon's hidden history. Researchers studying the sample say it helps bridge a missing chapter in knowledge about when the moon was last volcanically active. The rock appears to have formed deep beneath the surface from molten material that later solidified before being thrown into space by an impact. Its minerals suggest lingering warmth inside the moon long after scientists once believed activity had stopped. The find also hints at how energy moved through the lunar interior over time, shaping its surface and structure. Scientists hope it will guide future missions aimed at uncovering more about the moon's evolving geological story.

Package protector: A stolen delivery prompted welder Brandon Mejia of Frederick, Maryland USA, to build his own answer to package theft. Instead of purchasing an expensive or flimsy store-bought option, he used scrap materials and his metalworking tools to design a strong and practical secure container. The box's mechanism allows couriers to freely drop parcels inside, but once the lid closes, it automatically locks and can only be opened with a unique code. He carefully painted the unit, reinforced all the welded seams, and made it heavy enough to deter thieves. Marked with delivery stickers, drivers immediately know to use it without confusion. Since installing it outside his home, every order has arrived safely and securely.

Forest fight: Across Britain's woodlands, ash trees are showing signs of a surprising recovery against a fungus that once threatened to wipe them out. The disease, known as ash dieback, devastated landscapes after spreading through Europe. But new generations of trees are sprouting with stronger natural resistance compared to their predecessors, offering fresh optimism to conservationists. Researchers studying their DNA found many small genetic changes, rather than a single mutation, working together to provide protection. This gradual process highlights natural selection at work, as seedlings endure exposure to the spores in their environment. For now, it seems the species may yet carve a future where it thrives again.

Echoed depths: In Abhaneri, India, stands Chand Baori, a vast stepwell long linked with chilling tales and unsettling folklore. Its stone flights plunge 13 levels, forming a geometric maze of thousands of steps that once guided people to cool water and hosted important social gatherings. Folklore claims the structure rose almost overnight, crafted by unseen spirits, with secret tunnels adding to its enduring mystery. At the floor, the air is cooler and the silence is heavy, broken only by faint echoes. Some visitors describe sudden shivers, strange noises, or even shadow-like phantoms. Both an engineering wonder and a source of legend, Chand Baori remains a place where awe meets unease.

Quotable Quotes

The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity. ~ Amelia Earhart

Real generosity is doing something kind for someone who will never find out. ~ Frank A. Clark

What's Happening

Support Creative Northland: Creative Northland has opened a fund to bring new creative projects into our local creative communities. To donate, get in touch with the team on 09 430 0710 or visit www.creativenorthland.com for more details

Do you feel lonely in business? Are you looking for support in Business? NRG is a Business Support group meeting each Tuesday morning between 9am and 10.30am. No pressure on referrals, just weekly topics to keep on top of your business. Call Rudy on 021 421 346

Holiday Happenings at Kiwi North: open 7 days 10am - 4pm Kiwi North Scavenger Hunt - Fun for the whole family! Kiwi Feeding 11am, 1pm & 3pm daily

BNI Late Start chapter is a business referral group with 19 active members. We meet up on Wednesday from 8.50am until 10.30am Contact Rudy on 021 421 346 to see what it is all about or call Jono Reeves to reserve a spot in any other BNI Chapter in Northland

Free notices for not for profits rudy@coffeenews.co.nz

Trivia

1. In which ocean is Prince Edward Island located?

2. This movie was based on the book Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?

3. The barometric pressure rises at the centre of a hurricane - T/F?

4. Is the world's tallest volcano in North America, South America, or Asia?

5. The natural sugar found in milk is called fructose, lactose, or sucrose?

Your Weekly Horoscope

ariesAries (March 21 - April 19)
Early in the week, a sub­tle opportunity may come from a conversa­tion, something you read, etc. Manifesting it might require balancing the spiritual and the mundane. Lucky numbers: 7, 9, 14, 16, 26, 28.
libraLibra (Sept 24 - Oct 23)
For Libras, the idea of evolution often focuses on progress within your close relationships. Right now you might feel a calling, however, to widen this scope. Lucky numbers: 9, 15, 16, 18, 31, 33.
taurusTaurus (April 20- May 20)
Taurus often think change is overrated. But if you feel conflicted about how to proceed, transforma­tive change may be what you need. Don't reject the possibility. Lucky numbers: 7, 9, 17, 19, 27, 30.
scorpioScorpio (Oct 24- Nov 21)
Scorpios can be disheart­ened about humanity's potential because they intuitively see deeply into their fellow humans' shad­ows. Despite this conflict, continue to focus on hope. Lucky numbers: 5, 6, 11, 14, 34, 40.
geminiGemini (May 21- June 21)
Gemini’s thirst for knowledge can leave you vulnerable to informa­tion overload. Consider acting on a possible end-of-the-week opportunity to slow down for a while. Lucky numbers: 4, 6, 11, 14, 27, 33.
sagittariusSagittarius (Nov22-Dec21)
Believing in the inherent goodness of humanity is often part of a Sagittarius belief system. But you may be questioning that now. Strive to achieve a more balanced view. Lucky numbers: 6, 8, 11, 17, 29, 39.
cancerCancer (June 22 - July 22)
Cancers are often reluc­tant to stray from what they know. But this week, you might have a chance to expand on this, either within yourself or possibly in the outside world. Lucky numbers: 11, 13, 14, 17, 29, 32.
capricornCapricorn (Dec 22- Jan 19)
One Capricorn theme is building stable founda­tions and achieving con­crete results. The energy early in the week supports you in accomplishing these endeavours. Lucky numbers: 1, 7, 13, 25, 35, 38.
leoLeo (July 23 - Aug 22)
You may feel stalemated by what you want vs. your role in the wider community. You could find that focusing on progress in your world might be a good choice for you, too. Lucky numbers: 3, 5, 6, 15, 20, 29.
aquariusAquarius (Jan 20- Feb 18)
In light of artificial intel­ligence, many people are questioning humanity's next evolutionary steps. Those with Aquarius ener­gy could possibly help facilitate this discussion. Lucky numbers: 12, 15, 19, 21, 23, 39.
virgoVirgo (Aug 23 - Sept 22)
You may feel fuzzy and disoriented at week's end. Instead of doubling down on your efforts, consider taking a break for a few days until this dynamic dissipates. Lucky numbers: 5, 8, 18, 23, 28, 33.
piscesPisces (Feb 19 - March 20)
At week's end, you may want to meditate for a couple of days on your vision and daydreams. But perhaps wait until this period passes to figure out which ideas are more viable. Lucky numbers: 2, 3, 6, 29, 38, 40.
Lucky numbers for the week: Lucky numbers this week: This week's odds favour Capricorn winners with the luckiest number being 7.

Did you know

Ear boost: Early hearing aids were nothing like today's sleek devices. Centuries ago, they were carved from wood, later shifting to rubber, and eventually to electricity. Each step brought people closer to clearer sound and better communication.

Shopping sketches: Michelangelo once drew his grocery list because his servant couldn't read. The list included simple items like bread, fish, and wine, but those quick sketches now are prized as a rare glimpse into the artist's everyday life.

Flag first: Denmark's flag, known as the Dannebrog, holds the record as the oldest national flag still in continuous use. Its simple white cross on a red background has represented the country for centuries, with little change to its design or meaning.

Painted past: The Parthenon in Athens, Greece, was once far more colourful than the pale ruins we see today. Its marble carvings and statues were decorated with bright paints and shining details. Centuries of weather have worn away their original brilliance.

Longevity gap: Across much of the animal kingdom, females outlive males. From lions to whales, the trend is clear, and humans are no exception. Biology plays a role, making longer female lifespans a near-universal pattern.

On the lighter side

Dogs go to obedience school, but cats go to kittygarden.

A man went to a hospital, riding a horse and covered in hay. He's now in stable condition.

Nurse: Why are Mr. and Mrs. Number so happy? Doctor: They are going to have a little one.

What's small, round, and blue? A cranberry holding its breath.

Silly Book Title: Infectious Diseases by Willie Catchit

Answers

1. Atlantic 2. Blade Runner 3. False, lowers 4. South America 5. Lactose