This week’s roundup of feel-good New Zealand news has a little bit of everything: skywatchers marvelling at a rare solar eclipse, Ryan Fox swinging into the record books and gardeners tackling cheeky compost gremlins.
There is also the Queenstown restaurant crowned world’s best, Irene van Dyk finding joy on the trails, and even a look back at the year women won the vote, all stories that show the many ways Kiwis shine.
I hope they bring some lightness to your week. ✨
🌞🌘Solar Eclipse Dazzles Kiwis
22 September 2025
New Zealanders were treated to a rare cosmic display as a partial solar eclipse lit up the skies between 6 am and 8 am this morning, peaking around 7am.
Visible in only a few countries, the moon briefly transformed the sun into a glowing crescent, marking the most significant solar eclipse here since 2012.
While cloudy skies spoiled some views, including Stardome’s planned Auckland viewing party, many still caught glimpses and stunning photos of the event.
Astronomers reminded viewers to use proper solar glasses or filters for safe viewing. The spectacle follows a total lunar eclipse earlier this month.
Partial solar eclipse stuns early morning skywatchers across New Zealand
Visit The New Zealand Herald for more details: Partial solar eclipse stuns early morning skywatchers across New Zealand
⛳ Kiwi Golfer Ryan Fox Swings into the Record Books
22 September 2025
Kiwi golfer Ryan Fox is officially a Guinness World Record holder. Teaming up with Australia’s Min Woo Lee and England’s Dan Bradbury, the trio set a new record for the most par-3 holes completed in three minutes.
With Bradbury driving, Lee on approach shots and Fox sinking the putts, they rattled off 10 holes, smashing the previous record of seven held by Rory McIlroy and YouTube group Dude Perfect.
A playful win for golf and a proud moment for Fox.
Full details at Kiwi golfer Ryan Fox helps trio break Rory McIlroy’s world record.
Or visit Ryan Fox becomes Guinness World Record holder, forms trio who makes most par 3s in three minutes.
🌱 Compost Gremlins: Why Stickers Keep Appearing in a Keen Gardener’s Soil
25 September 2025
There is no doubt that New Zealanders are passionate about the environment. So this article on the issue of plastic fruit stickers caught my eye.
Auckland gardener Rachel Wilson loves using compost from her four backyard bins, but she keeps finding pesky plastic fruit stickers mixed in with the soil. Despite plans to phase them out, many stickers are still in circulation because switching to fully home-compostable versions isn’t simple.
While fruit stickers reduce packaging waste, identify varieties and support branding, the glue is the sticking point: compostable adhesives often don’t hold well. Costs are also higher, about 50% more than plastic labels.
Originally, non-compostable stickers were to be banned in 2023, but the government delayed the full ban until 2028 to allow more alternatives.
Export rules also complicate matters: fruit rejected overseas can still end up on New Zealand shelves, stickers and all.
Companies like The Yummy Fruit Company are leading the way, already using compostable stickers on most of their fruit, with hopes of going fully compostable soon.
For now, gardeners like Wilson will still be digging up these compost gremlins until industry and policy catch up.
Read the full story on Stuff: Compost gremlins: Why stickers keep appearing in a keen gardener’s soil.
🍷 New Zealand Restaurant World’s Best According To Tripadvisor
25 September 2025
Queenstown’s Nest Kitchen + Bar has soared to the top of Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards, taking out the inaugural “One of a Kind” category.
Known for its breathtaking views over Lake Wakatipu and modern twists on Kiwi classics, Nest is tucked inside the Kamana Lakehouse Hotel and led by head chef Jonathan Williams.
From braised wagyu short rib doughnuts to Royalburn lamb with date-glazed kūmara, the menu celebrates local produce in bold, creative ways.
Tripadvisor said:
Even if great views — and food — are around every corner in New Zealand, they both manage to go to the next level at Nest.
The team says they’re ‘a little astonished’ by the global recognition, calling it a tribute to the hard work of their chefs and staff.
Read more at New Zealand restaurant ‘a little astonished’ to be named world’s best in Tripadvisor awards.
For a review of Kamana Lakehouse Hotel, read Kamana Lakehouse: The Queenstown hotel with multimillion-dollar views — without the price tag.
🏐 Irene’s Next Chapter: From Netball Star to Trailblazing Inspiration
26 September 2025
Irene van Dyk is possibly the most positive person you will ever meet, so when I came across this article, I could not resist including it in this week’s Weekly Whirl.
After nearly 15 years as the smiling heart of the Silver Ferns, Irene van Dyk has found a new passion: trail running.
Instead of gyms, she now laces up her shoes, grabs her backpack and heads into nature with her trusty old dog or a group of friends.
As ambassador for the Aramex Kiwi Walk and Run Trail Series, van Dyk encourages Kiwis of all ages to explore the country’s breathtaking tracks, from Tongariro River to Te Mata Peak.
For Irene, trail running isn’t just about fitness. It’s about mental clarity, joy and connecting with New Zealand’s stunning landscapes. She admits uphill runs are ‘all about survival’, while walks help her think things through.
Her advice for beginners? Start flat, keep it fun and don’t try to ‘die the first time out’.
With her trademark positivity, Irene is determined to show that trails aren’t scary but full of beauty: rivers, birdsong and fresh air.
As she says:
Everyone’s out there sucking up oxygen together. It’s about being comfortable with being uncomfortable.
Read more on Stuff: Silver Ferns legend has a new passion, and she wants you to join in
1893: The Year Women Won the Vote in New Zealand
And last but not least, on 19 September 1893, New Zealand became the first country in the world where women had the right to vote in parliamentary elections. So, it’s worth including this historical event in this week’s Weekly Whirl.
Read about this important milestone on the New Zealand History website: Women and the vote.