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If you’re shopping for a sex doll online, be careful about buying a cheap imitation. Many websites will steal pictures of high-end name-brand dolls and sell them for half the price.

Sex dolls serve a variety of purposes, from overcoming social phobias to enhancing sexual and prostatic health. They can also help people with disabilities and trouble connecting with others.

Realistic

Many people who buy sex dolls aren’t necessarily “perverts.” Some buyers are married and want to avoid cheating on their spouse. Others may have social phobia or physical disabilities that make it difficult to interact with other humans. They use sex dolls as an alternative to human partners, much like the many other implements used for sexual satisfaction, from warming lubricants to prostate massagers.

When buying a sex doll, look for one that has an excellent customer service reputation. A reputable vendor will quickly resolve problems and will be willing to stand behind their products. You should also consider the warranty and return policy before you place your order. This way, you can avoid scams and get the best doll for your money. Some vendors even offer a free shipping option on all their products.

Lifelike

A number of sex dolls are designed to look as lifelike as possible. This includes the use of real hair and emotional facial features. Many dolls are also made of TPE and silicone to give them a realistic feel. These dolls are also able to perform oral, anal, and vaginal sex. This makes them a popular choice for women who are looking for sex partners.

The popularity of these sex dolls has skyrocketed during the coronavirus lockdown, with some manufacturers promising companion robots that can heat up to a user’s body temperature. However, public health concerns for disease transmission remain.

It is important to research different models before purchasing one. Some sites feature reviews by other customers, which can help you choose the right one for your needs.

Customizable

Sex dolls are a great way to explore your sexual fetishes without having to worry about anyone else’s opinions. You can customize your sex doll to match your fantasies, from the color of her skin to her hairstyle and eye color. You can also purchase a variety of upgrades to make your sex doll more obedient and realistic.

When shopping for a sex doll online, be sure to look at reviews and prices to determine whether or not the vendor is trustworthy. Also, reputable doll vendors will have a customer service line that can answer any questions about their process.

Sex dolls are often used for sexual gratification, but they can also be an emotional connection. Many people with social phobias, disabilities, or trouble connecting with other people find companionship in their sex dolls.

Companionship

A sex doll can be paired up with a variety of accessories that can be used to explore a range of fantasies and fetishes. From warming lubricants to prostate massagers, there are many options to choose from. However, there is still a lot of stigma surrounding the use of these devices.

Sex dolls offer a form of companionship that is functional for people who have difficulty connecting with others. It also provides a way to fulfill paraphilic sexual interests that are difficult to enact with real partners.

Despite the stigma, research has found that sex doll ownership is not associated with sexual objectification or proclivities to sexual aggression. This is particularly true when owners possess low levels of various moderating psychological traits, such as implicit theories that the world is dangerous and the male sex drive is uncontrollable.

Safety

Dolls are a fetish tool for those who have sexual desires or kinks that their regular partners cannot fulfill. However, there is a lack of empirical data on doll characteristics and the subsequent risks associated with their ownership. Existing arguments about the potential risk of doll ownership are based on philosophical positions rather than objective analysis.

Unlike most toys, sex dolls can have 2-3 orifices and seams, eyelashes, hair, phallic attachments, and even a mouth. Many also have erogenous zones that trigger moaning and dirty talk when touched.

These features can pose safety concerns, especially if they are not sterilized. Moreover, some services and products that require doll ownership, such as sex doll rentals or home hookahs, are not regulated by public health inspectors.

A tiny cabin is the perfect hideaway to unplug, exhale, and spend time with friends and family. Plus, using fewer utilities creates a smaller impact on the environment.

In meadows and woodland clearings, micro cabins are cropping up to give stressed city dwellers a respite. See how you can join the movement with this handy guide.

Choosing a Floor Plan

Choosing the right floor plan for your tiny cabin is an important step in determining its overall functionality. Some people choose to build a small house without a plan, while others opt for a more structured approach to design. Either way, it is helpful to begin by identifying your needs and wants.

For example, you may want a kitchen that maximizes space and includes essential appliances such as a stove, refrigerator, sink, and oven. You will also need to consider how many sleeping areas you require. Some people prefer to have separate sleeping spaces for each family member, while others are more comfortable with a shared area.

Many tiny homes are built with a one-story layout, but you can also opt for a two-story design. Some of these include a loft that is accessible via stairs or ladder. Depending on your preference, you may also decide to add a dormer or gambrel roof to increase the headspace in the lofts.

Choosing a Floor Material

Choosing the right flooring for your tiny cabin is a critical step in building a home that will be functional and stylish. Not only does the floor need to be acoustically and thermally insulated, it must also be durable and cost effective.

Carpet is not a good choice for a log cabin because it can trap allergens and be difficult to clean. It can also get moldy if damp and be expensive to replace. Instead, consider epoxy flooring. Epoxy is extremely durable and resistant to significant wear and tear. You can find it in a wide range of colors and styles to match your cabin.

Other durable flooring options for a cabin include white oak and wood grain tile. Ceramic and porcelain tiles can imitate the look of stone, slate and wood. They are also moisture resistant and can withstand drastic temperature changes. They can be expensive to install, however. A more affordable option is vinyl flooring, which comes in many colors and patterns to suit a variety of aesthetics.

Choosing a Wall Covering

When designing a prefab cabin, it’s important to consider what material you want to use for the walls. Wood paneling is a classic choice that can offer a warm and welcoming aesthetic. It’s also easy to install and can be stained or painted to suit your taste.

Another option is steel, which offers a high strength-to-weight ratio and can help your cabin resist pests and rot. However, it’s important to note that steel can be expensive and requires specialized tools.

If you’re looking for a more cost-effective and durable solution, fiberglass batting may be a better choice. It’s also easier to install than some other insulation options. However, it’s important to keep in mind that fiberglass batting is itchy and can pose a health risk when not properly handled. Alternatively, you can choose rigid foam, which is more costly but is also effective and safe to handle.

Choosing Insulation

When it comes to insulating your tiny home, there are many different options to choose from. Depending on your climate, some insulation materials may work better than others. Ultimately, you’ll want to select a material with an R-value that matches your energy efficiency goals.

Since heat naturally rises, the roof is one of the most critical areas for a tiny house to be well-insulated. You’ll want to opt for a high-R value, ideally around 30 or more.

Fiberglass insulation is inexpensive and easy to install. It’s also highly mold resistant, which makes it a good choice for a THOW.

Another great option is rock wool, a material that’s made from natural basalt rocks. It’s an excellent choice for cold climates and also helps with sound deadening. It’s a little more expensive than fiberglass, but it is extremely durable. This insulation is best installed by a professional. It requires special safety gear to protect your eyes and skin.

Located in a macadamia nut and fruit orchard, Francis Orchard Country Stay offers a beautiful garden of Eden. Relax in the sun decks on both sides of the house, take in the rural views from the living areas or sit around the outside fire with family and friends.

Waipu is a great place to stay with a strong Scottish heritage, a beautiful safe surf beach and kilometres of coastal trail. There is also a good range of restaurants, cafes and the general store nearby.

Decking Materials

There are many factors to consider when deciding what type of decking waipu is best for your home. You must balance upfront costs, how much maintenance you are comfortable doing year-after-year and the overall look of your outdoor space.

Natural wood like cedar and redwood offer a classic appearance but require frequent staining to prevent rot and insect damage. Pressure-treated lumber is affordable but can splinter and be susceptible to mold and mildew. While Ipe is a durable, beautiful natural hardwood that resists rot and termites, the Rainforest Relief organization warns that this exotic wood is often illegally harvested from endangered species habitats and has a high carbon footprint.

Composites blend wood fibers with recycled plastic materials and are a more sustainable option that can be stained to match your home. Capped composites use protective coatings that limit moisture penetration to protect the boards and reduce cleaning needs. While uncapped composites allow moisture to easily access the core and can be more prone to mold, mildew and rot.

Decking Installation

A deck can add value to your home and improve its overall aesthetic. But the best way to ensure that your new addition is safe and functional is to work with a professional. A skilled contractor can advise you on regional factors and regulations, as well as the best materials for your specific needs.

Ipe wood is incredibly durable and can resist mildew, insect damage, and fire. Additionally, it retains lesser heat than other decking materials and is less likely to splinter.

Traditional decks are attached to a building using a ledger board, which provides stability and structural support. They are also built on concrete footings, which requires digging and pouring to provide a strong foundation. This type of deck installation typically requires a permit and inspections from the local authority. You may also need to hire a specialist to install a staircase, handrails, and other safety features. This is especially important if you have children and pets who will use the deck.

Decking Repairs

This stunning house in Waipu has some lovely features – including polished Rimu floors and an impressive sheltered deck. But the real highlight is the waterfront – a tranquil water wonderland with plenty of space to kayak, row a dinghy or paddleboard. And it’s a haven for birdlife too – spoonbills, godwits and terns are all in abundance!

Traditional decks are attached to a home or structure using ledger boards, and problems with these boards can compromise the structural integrity of your deck. Ledger board repair is a critical service that should be done by professionals who have extensive experience in this area.

Discover top-rated local Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures professionals in Waipu. Browse through profiles, reviews and photos to determine which pro is right for you. Then hire them to complete your project. It’s that easy!

Decking Maintenance

Whether you have a new or old deck, keeping it well-maintained is essential. Regular cleaning helps to prevent the build-up of dirt, mildew, and moss. Also, storing or covering outdoor furniture will help to keep it safe from the elements.

Your local deck and patio builders will inspect your home and yard to come up with a plan that fits your needs. They will recommend sizes, heights, and construction materials that work for your environment. They can also suggest additional components to enhance your deck.

The team at Northpine are the biggest employer in Waipu and pride themselves on a great culture and safety. They recently won the ACC workplace safety award, which speaks volumes about the way they treat their staff and the way they conduct business. Their timber is dried, dressed, boric treated, and tanalised all on site. The result is high quality timber with a finish that can withstand New Zealand’s weather conditions.

Honey is a natural sweetener that can be used in a variety of drinks. It also has several health benefits.

The phytonutrients in honey are thought to be responsible for its immune-boosting and anticancer properties. They also help the body fight against allergies and diseases.

Studies have shown that the polyphenols in honey can counter neuroinflammation in the hippocampus, an area of the brain involved in memory.

Natural Sweetener

Natural sweeteners are made from plant or fruit extracts and a variety of other ingredients to act as a more nutritious alternative to sugar. They are usually lower in calories and offer a range of other health benefits like antioxidants and minerals.

Some examples of natural sweeteners include honey, blackstrap molasses and maple syrup. While these sweeteners may have fewer calories than sugar, they still contain added sugar and should be consumed in moderation.

Other natural sweeteners include stevia and monk fruit. Stevia is extracted from the stevia plant and can be up to 300 times sweeter than sugar with no calories at all. Monk fruit, also known as luo han guo, is a no-calorie sweetener that comes in a powder form and doesn’t raise blood sugar levels. However, it is important to note that some monk fruit products contain erythritol, which can cause digestive side effects like gas and bloating. Choose monk fruit sweeteners without erythritol for better digestion.

Natural Beverage Sweetener

As consumers continue to reduce their sugar intake, they’re looking for natural sweeteners that offer a similar taste and mouthfeel to the beverages they already love. This provides beverage formulators with a unique opportunity to innovate reduced-calorie formulations that can satisfy consumer demand while remaining within calorie constraints.

Natural sweeteners tend to have a lower glycemic index than traditional refined sugars and can help prevent blood sugar spikes, which makes them suitable for individuals with diabetes or those who follow a low-glycemic diet. Additionally, these options can have added health benefits, such as antioxidants or antibacterial properties.

Many beverage creators are turning to natural sweetener blends to deliver the sweetness, mouthfeel and ingredient perception that consumers are looking for. According to Kokkinidou, “Successful sweetener blends allow you to get to a more desirable sugar-reduction level without losing the functionality and taste that the beverage requires.”

Natural Skin Care Sweetener

White label honey has been clinically shown to bolster health in a bunch of ways. Aside from the obvious (immunity-boosting, antibacterial) benefits, this natural sweetener is also a skin beauty ingredient, helping to rectify acne, pimples, dark spots, tans, wrinkles and dryness with its hydrating and smoothing properties. It contains probiotic bacteria like lactobacillus kunkeei, which are known to stimulate the immune system, and passes along phytochemicals that help to stimulate cell growth.

When it comes to skin care, you want to look for pure, raw and local honey. This is more wholesome than mass-produced honey that may be pasteurized and contain additives like high-fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners like Splenda, whose consumption has been linked to a myriad of negative health conditions including heart disease, obesity and diabetes.

Kamagra Oral Jelly Australia is one of the bestselling Erectile Dysfunction (ED) medicines worldwide. It is a flavored jelly medication that dissolves in your mouth and can help you get a firm erection during sex.

It works by enhancing blood flow to the penis. It also helps improve your sexual performance.

It is a prescription-only medicine

Kamagra Oral Jelly is an excellent option for anyone suffering from erectile dysfunction in Australia. It is fast acting and can help you achieve an erection in as little as five minutes. It is also safe for those older than eighteen years. However, it is important to note that this medication will not prevent premature ejaculation. This is something that can be treated with other behavioural techniques and anaesthetic gels.

While you can find Kamagra online, it is best to consult a doctor before starting this medication. This will help ensure the proper dosage and avoid future health implications. In addition, this medication is not recommended for people with heart-related issues or blood pressure problems.

The best place to buy kamagra oral jelly is from an Australian vendor that offers free shipping and secure checkout. CialisBit is one of these vendors and offers a wide selection of generic medications, including ED pills. The company also offers a money-back guarantee.

It is available in Australia

Kamagra Oral Jelly is a popular Erectile Dysfunction medicine for men who dislike swallowing tablets. It’s easy to take and works quickly, making it a great option for men who want to start sex sooner. It also comes in a variety of flavors, which makes it a fun way to take this prescription medication.

The main active ingredient in Kamagra Oral Jelly is sildenafil, which is FDA-approved for ED treatment. It increases blood flow to the penis and helps men achieve and maintain an erection during sex. It’s safe for most people to take, but you should talk to your doctor before taking it if you have a heart condition or are taking other medications.

You can’t get Kamagra in Australian pharmacies, as it’s a prescription-only medication. However, there are services that can connect you with an Australian doctor who will diagnose and prescribe it for you. They can also ship the medication to you.

It is safe to use

Kamagra oral jelly is a safe treatment for men who suffer from erectile dysfunction. It is a generic iteration of the branded Viagra medication and contains sildenafil citrate, an FDA-approved drug for enhancing blood flow to the penis. It is sold online and in most pharmacies throughout Australia. It comes in packs of ten sachets for as little as five dollars AUS and can be taken by mouth or mixed into a drink.

However, it is important to note that kamagra oral jelly should not be taken by people with certain health conditions, including cardiovascular disease and heart-related problems. It is also a good idea to avoid consuming alcoholic beverages while taking this medicine. Lastly, it is recommended to take the medication about an hour before a sexual encounter. This will ensure that you get the best results from your medication. You can also consult a doctor for further guidance on how to use it safely.

It is available online

Kamagra is a popular erectile dysfunction treatment, available online and in many pharmacies. It works to increase blood flow to the penis, causing an erection. It also helps to improve sexual pleasure. The medicine comes in tasty jelly sachets that are easy to swallow and can be taken without water. The sachets contain 100mg of Sildenafil Citrate, which is the same as in Viagra.

The sachets can be bought in various flavors, including mint, strawberry, banana, chocolate, orange, mango, and vanilla. It is important to consult a doctor before taking Kamagra oral jelly. It is not recommended for people with a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.

In Australia, medicines must undergo a strict evaluation process to ensure they are safe and effective. Those that pass this process will be registered and can be purchased from Australian pharmacies with a prescription. This process will help to prevent counterfeit drugs from being sold in the country.

Protect your possessions by placing anything you can move into buckets or tarps. You may also need to cover furniture or other items that cannot be moved from the area of the leak to limit water damage and stains.

If you have attic access, try to locate the source of the leak. Look for areas where water is collecting and check the flashing around vents, dormers and chimneys.

Signs of a Roof Leak

If you have water spots on your ceiling or walls, there’s a good chance it’s coming from the roof. This could be a sign of mold and early rot development that’s only going to get worse over time if not addressed. If the stains are accompanied by a musty odor, that’s even more cause for concern.

Once you have some of the water damage stemmed, it’s time to find the source of the leak. If you have access to the attic, start by checking for obvious problems such as missing or overly brittle shingles, poorly sealed or corroded flashing around chimneys, skylights and vents or along the intersection of different planes.

If you don’t have attic access, enlist the help of someone with a ladder and some experience climbing. Have them run a hose on the roof, starting low and moving up a bit each time, to isolate the area where the water is showing up inside the house.

Water Spots on Your Walls

If you notice water stains on the walls, it’s time to investigate a possible roof leak . This is a major problem and will need to be addressed immediately. You may need to lay down drop cloths or rubbish bags to protect carpets and floors from water damage. You should also make sure to clear out the attic and remove any items stored there.

If you have attic access, enlist a helper and start searching the roof for evidence of a leak. Begin by looking for any penetrations into the roof such as chimneys, vents and dormers. Once you find a suspected area, run a hose over it. Move the hose uphill and retest until you find the source of the leak. If you can’t find the source, sanitize the area with a bleach solution. This will prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Afterward, the drywall in the affected area will need to be repaired.

Mold on Your Exterior Walls

If mold grows on your exterior walls, it’s a sure sign that there’s a roof leak repair. Mold in your walls indicates a lot of moisture, which is bad for the drywall, insulation and wood framing, and also leads to rot. Mold inside the walls can be dangerous to your health, and if you’re planning to sell your house, a major deterrent to prospective buyers.

It’s a good idea to have any mold growth professionally remediated. However, before you do that, it’s best to test the growth to make sure you’re dealing with mold and not something else like lichen, moss or algae. You can use an at-home mold testing kit to get a better idea of what you’re dealing with. If it turns out to be mold, you’ll want to encapsulate the mold using a fungicidal paint. Then, you’ll need to rebuild the area with new drywall and insulation, if necessary.

Water Damage

A leaking roof can cause extensive water damage, so it’s important to take preventative steps until the leak is fixed. Move any furniture, electronics, or other items that could get wet to a safe place. Soak up as much water as you can with towels or a mop. Document any damage with photos, which will help if you file an insurance claim for the repair costs.

If you have attic access, use a flashlight to look for the source of the leak in the ceiling and walls. Start at the base of a stain and trace it upwards, looking for loose or missing shingles, damaged flashing around chimneys or vents, or areas where different planes meet. Water can also enter through a gap in the dormer or wall, so look for evidence of this on the exterior as well. If your floor is wet, put down drop cloths or garbage bags to protect surfaces from water and the dust created when removing damaged drywall.

Immigration law is a complex area, and it’s important to get the right advice. A licensed immigration adviser can help you with your visa or permit applications and provide legal support. You can find an immigration advisor on the Immigration New Zealand website.

Kim Saull is a specialist immigration lawyer who helps people and businesses with immigration issues. He can assist with work, investment, family, and entrepreneur visas. He is also experienced in appeals and personal matters.

David Pawson

Licensed immigration advisers in Tauranga can help you navigate the complex process of moving to a foreign country. They can assist with work visas, family visas, and residence applications. They can also help you deal with any problems that may arise during the process. Choosing the best immigration lawyer is essential to ensure that you get an excellent service.

The death of British Bible teacher David Pawson in May 2020 was a blow to the global church. He was a prolific writer and speaker and was widely known for his clear explanations of Scripture. His best-known work, Unlocking the Bible, continues to be a worldwide bestseller.

Lauren Qiu, principal of Stay Legal, is an experienced specialist immigration law firm that assists businesses with practical solutions to immigration compliance challenges. She has presented at national and regional seminars on immigration law and is a guest lecturer for aspiring immigration advisors. She is also an expert in asylum law and refugee casework.

Ned Burke

Ned Burke is an immigration lawyer based in Tauranga, New Zealand. He has over 20 years of work and employment law experience, both in Europe and New Zealand. He specialises in character waiver applications, ministerial jobs, section 61 requests, and visa applications for business migrants and family migrants. He also handles appeals and judicial reviews.

He earned a bachelor’s degree from California State University, Fullerton and a law degree from the University of Colorado. In 2009, he became an immigration judge. He has represented more than 100,000 people in criminal and civil cases.

Asylum seekers from Mexico and El Salvador are the largest groups of individuals whose claims have been decided by Judge Burke during this period. Other nationalities with significant shares include Guatemala, China, and Honduras. During this period, more than one-third of asylum seekers who appeared before the court were not represented by an attorney. Those who were not represented were significantly more likely to be denied relief.

Kim Saull

A licensed immigration adviser is a person who can give legal advice and assist in New Zealand visa applications. They must meet competency standards and charge fair fees. In addition, they must be members of a professional organization and follow a code of conduct. Licensed advisors should also be able to answer your questions in a timely manner.

Kim Saull is an experienced New Zealand immigration lawyer. She specializes in unlawful migrant matters, skilled migration, and family residency applications. She is fluent in English and Hindi and is a member of several professional organizations.

After graduating with a bachelor of commerce and law degree, Paul Milne immediately commenced his career in the immigration field. He currently works at Stay Legal, a New Zealand immigration law firm that serves the Bay of Plenty region. He assists investors, local businesspeople, and individuals with their immigration needs. He is experienced in character waivers, ministerial jobs, and section 61 requests.

Aaron Smith

Having a long career in contemporary music, Aaron Smith is experienced in performing with a variety of ensembles. He also enjoys working with composers during the creation of new works. He is also a specialist on the Arabic tambourine, known as the riq. He has performed as a soloist on this instrument in Los Angeles and New York City.

He is a former scrum half who played for the Highlanders and the All Blacks. He has represented New Zealand at multiple tournaments, including the Rugby World Cup and Bledisloe Cup. He is a very chirpy character and enjoys making cheeky jibes to his opponents.

Licensed immigration advisers are able to assist with a range of business and personal immigration matters. They are able to help businesses with visa applications for employees who are not citizens of New Zealand. They can also advise on the impact of COVID-19 and longer-term considerations for businesses with migrant staff.

Capture your precious moments on camera with the help of the best wedding photographers in Wellington. These experienced professionals have the personality and a keen eye for details to give you memorable images.

Auburn Photography focuses on capturing the joy and romance of your special day. They also offer a variety of wedding packages for different budgets.

August & Vine

Relaxed, intimate and authentic wedding photography that captures the unique beauty in your love story. Based in Wairarapa & Wellington – available nationwide.

A talented and trusted photographer is a must for every couple planning their big day. You want a photographer who will not only take beautiful photos but also provide you with an unforgettable experience. You deserve a photographer who will understand your style, soul and emotion and will be there to help you create epic moments that will last a lifetime.

The wine farm wedding trend is growing in popularity in South Africa. This is due to the idyllic scenery, favourable exchange rate and fantastic wines on offer. This area is becoming increasingly popular amongst tourists and locals alike. The area has many wedding venues and vineyards that are licensed for nuptial ceremonies and receptions. These venues can be found in the rolling countryside outside Cape Town.

Auburn Photography

It is perhaps unusual for an artist to work with one of their sculptors, but Auburn’s use of Pardington’s works within her own photographic practice is a compelling example. She encapsulates the essence of Pardington’s still life oeuvre with a series of photographs that are at once homages and appropriations.

The photographs themselves are reminiscent of the carte-de-visite and cabinet card formats popular from the mid-to late 1800s, with their prints mounted on cards of various sizes that were widely distributed. Auburn’s use of gorse for example alludes to the Cemetery and the local Wellington site where she rides her horse, and also Pardington’s interest in using the plant.

But Auburn is also at liberty to introduce some ironic aesthetic distance in the way she presents these homages. In one instance she responds to a wax and plaster fungus in Pardington’s Champignons Barla with a plastic air freshener in the shape of a mushroom. This is a masterful illustration of semiotics in action, and raises the question of authorship, appropriation and interpretation.

Michelle Davies Photography

Your wedding photos are more than just a memento of your big day, they’re the start of a new chapter of your relationship and tell your unique story. That’s why you need to choose a photographer who can connect with you and capture the little moments that make your story so special, like a sideways glance or a giggle.

Michelle Davies Photography has a natural style and loves to capture genuine happiness, preserving these candid moments for a lasting narrative. She’s a dedicated professional who takes time to get to know her clients before the wedding day to ensure an seamless experience.

Moovit is your all-in-one transit app, trusted by over 1.5 million users, including those in Waikanae West. Use Moovit’s free maps and live directions to find the best way to Michelle Davies Photography NZ in real-time. See schedules, routes, and stations for all buses and trains in your area. Plan your trip ahead of time to avoid any surprises and take the stress out of travelling.

Whether you’re on a day at the beach or hiking in the woods, a waterproof case is a great investment. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one?

This two-piece case clips together over your phone to keep it dry to a depth of 6 feet. It’s also shock-absorbing and compatible with wireless charging.

Google Pixel 6 Case

The Google Pixel 6 is a flagship phone with a premium price tag, so it deserves a case that protects it from drops and scratches. A clear case like the Ringke Fusion lets you see your pristine phone in all its glory.

If you don’t want to hide your phone, consider a hybrid case like the Caseology Parallax. The textured back adds grip to the slippery glass back of the Pixel 6.

For a heavy-duty case, look no further than Otterbox’s Defender Series. This rugged case promises military-grade durability, and it even includes a front cover with built-in screen protector. For a less expensive option, Poetic’s Revolution is also a solid choice. This thick case has reinforced corners, covered buttons, and a raised lip to protect the camera lens and display.

Apple iPhone X Case

Apple’s most advanced phone deserves a protective case that’s as tough as it is. The LifeProof FRE series fits the bill with snow, rain, water, and drop protection up to 2 meters.

X-doria’s clear case has a large lip that protects the display when the iPhone is set facedown and offers military-grade protection with an impact-absorbing material. It’s also made from recycled ocean plastic.

Mous makes some of the slimmest waterproof cases around, thanks to a high-impact material called AiroShock that dampens the force of drops. The Limitless case combines carbon fiber or walnut finishes with this technology, making it a slim case that isn’t too bulky. It leaves the top and bottom of the iPhone uncovered, but doesn’t interfere with button use. It also has an extra back piece for clipping to your pants or bag.

Samsung Galaxy S9 Case

If you’re a fan of Samsung’s Galaxy S9 smartphone, you’ll want to protect it with a great case. Whether you’re hiking, camping or kayaking, a good waterproof case will help you avoid heartbreak and a costly replacement.

One of the best options is this grippy case from Catalyst, which can withstand drops up to 10-feet without adding too much bulk. It’s also slim and unobtrusive, ensuring the gorgeous form factor of the Galaxy S9 remains intact.

If you want something similar to the LifeProof cases, but don’t want to pay the price tag, consider this Galaxy S9 waterproof case from AMORNO. It’s got full body protection and is rated for use in water, shock, dust and dirt. It also supports wireless charging and has a kickstand for media viewing.

LG G6 Case

LG’s premium phones already boast an IP68 rating, meaning they can handle more than a quick splash or dip in the water. However, since phone damage resulting from water exposure is not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, there’s no harm in adding another layer of protection.

This clear case is super slim and preserves the look of your device. It also offers decent drop protection without adding much bulk.

The Ringke Fusion is a great option for G6 users looking for reliable protection. It has a shock-absorbent TPU bumper and adds no bulk to your device. It also has precise cutouts for the camera, headphone jack, and buttons. It even meets MIL-STD-810G-516.6 standards for shock protection. It’s also available in several colors. The price is reasonable as well.

Sony Xperia XZ2 Case

If you’ve got a brand new Xperia XZ2 on the way, consider keeping it looking as pristine as possible with a clear case. They don’t add bulk and still allow you to enjoy the phone’s standout design, plus they help prevent fingerprint smudges and water damage.

For a more rugged option, try Ringke’s Onyx case. It has a dual texture back with a brushed metal and carbon fiber style, which looks great. It also offers comfortable access to the camera and fingerprint sensor with precise cutouts.

For a bit more functionality, check out KuGi’s Wallet Case Stand. The cover folds into a viewing stand and protects the Xperia XZ2 against drops, scratches, dust and dirt. It also has a card slot for carrying essentials and a built-in kickstand for hands-free viewing.

We’ve all seen the Beaches and Waterways of Aotearoa littered with waste Polystyrene. It takes up a lot of space in Landfills, is heavy and, like all plastic, can leach toxic chemicals into the Environment.

This is why it is good to know that styrene, the main building block of polystyrene can be recycled!

EPS

It’s the stuff we know as ‘Styrofoam’, and it’s made from expanding beads of polystyrene plastic which are fused together to form a dense foam. It’s lightweight, but also an excellent insulator. As a result, we use it in everything from packaging to children’s school projects and food takeaway containers.

It takes thousands of years to break down in landfill, and when hot food or liquid touches it it starts to partially breakdown releasing Styrene and Benzene, which are suspected carcinogens and neurotoxins that can be absorbed into the bloodstream and tissues. So, never microwave your food in that to-go container!

The good news is that this incredibly versatile and affordable insulation material can be recycled right here in New Zealand. One of our major EPS manufacturers, Expol, has a residential polystyrene recycling NZ cube programme where you can drop off your domestic EPS waste at select Mitre 10 Mega stores and other locations across the country. It’s then repurposed into EXPOL Tuff Pods, Quick Drain, Under Floor and Therma Slab Sheet in a closed loop life manufacturing process.

Foam

The squishy white stuff used to wrap take-away food takes up a lot of space in rubbish bins, but it’s actually an incredibly versatile material. It can be found in surfboards, boogie boards and the protective packaging around fragile items such as televisions and computers.

Polystyrene is a challenging product to recycle because it doesn’t break down very easily and can be difficult to sort into a high quality recycled plastic. It also contains hydro chlorofluorocarbons, which are neurotoxic and have a massive impact on ozone depletion and global warming.

Fortunately, it’s now easier than ever to get rid of your Styrofoam waste without sending it to landfill by using the new drop-off point at Mitre 10 in Tauranga. The free programme is run in partnership with EXPOL, who repurposes the foam to make insulation and drainage products. Residents can bring up to two bags of clean EPS to the collection point, and the material is accepted from households as well as businesses.

Soft plastics

Soft plastics are a hugely popular packaging material, however they’re not without their downside. If they aren’t recycled correctly they can damage normal plastic recycling factories and end up in landfills and pollute the environment when they break down. They can also contaminate paper recycling streams, and are a significant cause of microplastic pollution which can enter waterways and be ingested by marine wildlife.

Soft Plastics are generally a yellow-lid bin item and include things like plastic bags, chip packets, bread bags, mail satchels and cling wrap. They should not be mixed with other materials in your yellow-lid bin as they can cause issues when they are processed at a materials recovery facility.

In New Zealand, Soft Plastics are recycled through the Love NZ soft plastics scheme which is run by The Packaging Forum. This scheme provides 69% of New Zealanders with a drop-off point. The collected bags and wrappers are then recycled into a range of products including fence posts at Future Post in Waiuku and into ducting by Second Life Plastics in Levin.

Other plastics

Polystyrene is best known as a component of Styrofoam drinking cups, take-out “clamshell” food containers and picnic cutlery. It’s ultra-lightweight and cheap but is structurally weak, leaking styrene (a possible carcinogen) when heated to release toxins into food and drinks. It’s also non-biodegradable and takes up a lot of landfill space.

Plastics that have a recycling triangle with a number one on them are recyclable through kerbside recycling. That includes clear and coloured PET plastics, milk bottles, cleaning products, some meat trays and punnets for berries and tomatoes.

A new collection point for household EPS in Mangawhai is open thanks to an initiative from interior installer Matt Strong. He has partnered with Mitre 10 Mega and EXPOL to provide a collection point for households to drop off their household Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) packaging for reprocessing. The EPS is repurposed into new products including tuff Pods, Quick Drain, Under Floor and Therma Slab sheeting. It’s the first EPS recycling in the north of the country.