Lizard News August 2024 by Lizard News

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Changes to median barrier plans on SH2 between Waihī and Ōmokoroa

he installation of a median barrier on two sections of State Highway 2 between Waihī and Ōmokoroa is being re-examined by NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA)

Chief Executive, Nicole Rose, says this corridor has had a significant number of deaths and serious injuries and has increasing volumes of traffic It is also a key corridor for communities who live along or off the state highway

“We are seeking to strike a balance between achieving the best safety outcomes for all road users and a design

By Ken Shirley Bay of Plenty Regional Councillor

It is always heartening when bottomup community power can change centralised and entrenched decision making

NZTA’s determination to install continuous wire median barriers along State Highway 2 between Ōmokoroa and Katikati is a very good example

A relatively small band of determined individuals, supported by the broader community, have been campaigning for several years to allow right-hand turns from some fifteen intersecting sideroads that are not served by one of the six new roundabouts Based on current day travel counts this would cause 17,250 additional kilometres of travel per day, with severe adverse impacts on emergency services, deliveries, orchard and farming businesses, together with community connectivity and convenience

The mounting public concern culminated in a public meeting held in the Katikati War Memorial Hall on Tuesday 23rd July This meeting was attended by more than 300 concerned residents, with standing room only

Recognising the mounting political

that meets local trip needs

“As a result of community concerns, NZTA will re-consider the options for the section of median barrier between Matahui/Lockington roundabout and Wharawhara Road, and the stretch between Apata Station Road and Morton Road, which is the longest section in the project and includes the Work Road intersection,” Ms Rosie says

The project will complete the finishing touches to the 1 4km of median barrier between Morton Road roundabout and the Whatakao Bridge

Ken’s

NZTA will continue installing median barriers from Wright Road to Aongatete bridge This will mean Wright Road and Dawson Road will become left-in, left-out (with a roundabout at Matahui/Lockington roads - approximately 1 2km from Wright Road)

“NZTA is looking at ways we can continue to deliver safety benefits while meeting the community’s concerns, ” Ms Rosie says “As part of this, we will also look at the speed limit for this stretch, which will depend on the safety improvements installed ”

Comment

The current phase of works, installing median barriers and safe turnaround points (roundabouts), is 75 per cent complete Four of six roundabouts have been built, and the fifth is under construction at Apata Station Road

Changes to the overall design of the safety improvements have been made throughout the project and NZTA continues to consider the concerns raised by the community with the current design NZTA will update the community following the re-examination process, which will take several weeks Article: NZTA

pressure, NZTA issued a statement on the afternoon of the scheduled meeting, stating that they recognised the community outrage and were reconsidering the options for sections of median barriers between Matahui/Lockington roundabout and Wharawhara Road and also the stretch between Apata Station Road and Morton Road, which is the longest section in the project

Notwithstanding this intended review, the public meeting unanimously passed the following resolution:

“The meeting requests that the Regional Transport Committee, supported by WBOPDC write to the NZTA board highlighting the community concern and urging them to make provision for right hand turns on all lateral roads joining SH2 between Katikati and Ōmokoroa ”

Te Puna • Whakamārama • Matakana Is • Ōmokoroa • Pahoia • Apata • Aongatete • Katikati • Tahāwai • Bowentown • Athenree • Waihī Beach

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Letters to the Editor

Not very bright

Please refer to the photos of trucks parking dangerously on the Ōmokoroa roadside and using a public parking area as their depot

This has now been happening essentially every night for several months It’s only a matter of time before there is a serious accident

The truck below is in clear breach of the Land Transport (Road User) Rule 2024 by not being illuminated during the hours of darkness from an artificial source and not displaying a rear light

It is also dangerously close to the road and obviously a safety hazard

I have raised this matter with the District Council and I have reported the dangerous parking to the Police twice

The truck parking is dangerous and illegal, an abuse of our roadside and of our official parking area intended for the general public, not a transport depot

Perhaps they could arrange to park at the Ōmokoroa General Carriers yard?

I think it is just a matter of time before someone gets killed by driving into the back of the truck parked on the roadside Something needs to be done For example, fine the company for breach of rules and the Council could put time limits on the car park, e g 8-hour maximum

Michael Smith, Ōmokoroa

Editor’s view: I agree the truck parking on the road side should be displaying a suitable night light, as is required by the road code and common sense Other than that, these drivers are obviously local residents with livelihoods They need somewhere to park so they can get out on the road before dawn, to deliver the goods that keep the country and community moving and this is probably a better location than a residential street

Rates rises

WBOPDC Mayor James Denyer claims that comparing rates increases to overall rates revenue was a ‘misleading way of looking at it as it did not mean people’s rates would double’ (Lizard News, July). He is wrong.

The council has stated that rates will increase by 13 66% next year, 10 44% the year after, and between 7 0% and 8 46% for each of the remaining eight years That means rates will double in eight years at 8 46% and in nine years at 7 0%

Western Bay’s proposed average percentage rates increase may be slightly lower than the country’s average but it comes on top of a very high base So in dollar terms it is much bigger than the country’s average It is a very large increase and it is not affordable for many ratepayers in this district

Keith Hay,

Waihī Beach

No fan of Jan

I wish to respond to the half truths and political amnesia displayed by the only Labour politician left in the central North Island, Jan Tinetti

Free prescriptions will continue for children, community services card holders and those over 65 The maximum for a family remains 20 prescriptions a year, then they qualify for a high users card The money saved will go towards providing Pharmac funds for many more specialised drugs not currently available in NZ, but provided in almost all OECD countries People will no longer be begging for charity to access life saving drugs

The school lunch programme will continue and extend to some preschool education providers Gourmet meals are not the responsibility of the State Most of us grew up on sandwiches and fruit for lunch at school Charities have long provided this for schools such as Merivale, as well as breakfast

School building projects have been halted due to cost overruns and are being reassessed Standardised plans will be adopted rather than expensive bespoke buildings The need for a secondary school in Ōmokoroa is due to the two-hour journey to reach Ōtūmoetai College The reason for the traffic gridlock is due to the Labour Government cancelling the expressway to Ōmokoroa in 2018, thanks to Phil Twyford and Julie Anne Genter. The latter would have us adopt the transport of the Amish community in Pennsylvania

If the roading upgrade, which had reached the tendering stage, had proceeded, there would now be a 4-lane highway to Ōmokoroa, with benefit to students, other commuters and businesses The need for the secondary school could have been deferred until the number of students in Ōmokoroa justified it

The First Home Buyer grant of $5,000 is relatively worthless compared to the rise in building costs and the increased

Continued on page 4

BŌmokoroa intersection works

ulldozers and diggers have become a regular sight at the State Highway 2 and Ōmokoroa Road intersection upgrade as work kicks up a gear

From Saturday 6th July, the intersection carpark and bus stop was closed and relocated just north of Prole Road, making way for the construction crew to start ground preparations for the roundabout

Western Bay of Plenty District Council

General Manager Infrastructure Group, Cedric Crow, says it’s been a while since our community has seen activity around the intersection, with the trees and vegetation being removed late last year, so this next part of the project is very exciting

“Behind the scenes, the team has still been very busy. We have been focusing on other parts of the project such as finalising fibre and power arrangements, ongoing property discussions, and plan-

Oning for an upcoming community open day

“Constructing a roundabout so close to a busy intersection and State Highway is a complex task that involves coordinating lots of different things, almost like putting together a very large jigsaw puz-

zle Every piece of the puzzle has a certain place, and time

“Rest assured, our construction teams are great at puzzles and are working diligently ‘offline’ away from the main road to help minimise traffic impacts as this project takes shape,” says Cedric

Prole Road update

ver 12 months into construction, the project with Higgins Group is moving smoothly and is on track to significantly enhance our local road network

Here’s a snapshot of what’s been accomplished so far:

2,200m of new stormwater culverts, including 180m of large-diameter pipes; 1100m of new wastewater lines, with 600m dedicated to rising mains for new property connections 800m of new water main, replacing outdated asbestos lines 12,000m² of material shifted as part of earthworks A brand new roundabout linking Prole Road to the Kaimai Views subdivision Installation of new fibre connections, set to be operational by

the end of the year

Our hard-working team, now over 30 strong, includes a diverse mix of locals and internationals, all dedicated to making this project a success

Recently, we closed access to Prole Road via the Ōmokoroa Road intersection to advance the construction of pavement and retaining walls We’ve worked hard to minimise disruptions, and we ’ re super grateful for your cooperation and patience A big thank you to the Prole Road community for your understanding

What’s next on the to-do list?

Installing new underground power and fibre net-

As part of the initial earthworks, the 27-tonne stone, also known as the ‘Lizard Stone’ was moved to be kept in safe storage until its final location is decided on with local hapū Pirirākau and Public Art Ōmokoroa closer to the completion of the project Article supplied

works Removing overhead power lines Completing 230m of retaining structures Adding kerbs, footpaths, and new pavements, including asphalt Starting construction on a new wetland, set to become a beautiful, landscaped area for the public to enjoy

A section of the Pahoia Cycleway, between Prole Road and Heartwood Avenue, is also temporarily closed A public pathway is expected to be completed by Labour Weekend, giving access to Ōmokoroa via the Kaimai Views subdivision In the meantime, for safety reasons, cyclists and walkers are asked to please avoid the area

Thank you for your continued support as we work through all this Article supplied

The Lizard Stone has been removed to go into temporary storage PHOTOS: Supplied

The carpark has been demolished at the intersection

From page 2

interest rates due to an out-of-control economy, with socialists in charge over the last six years Our economy demands that education, health and crime prevention are the priorities for now

Ann Owen, Katikati.

Rock on!

It seemed a wet but poignant moment, on my way back to “The Mok”, from a morning of TV sport with my nephew

The Lizard Rock was to be no more, I thought, until the HEB heavy haulage driver made the comment, “It is coming back”, in reply to my shout across the road “ one for the Lizard News!”

Pleasing to know, having seen that iconic lizard work of art several years earlier as we surfed for our new home here

Sadly someone felt they had more right to it than the Ōmokoroa Community I believe the Ōmokoroa Art Group have a plan though.

Brett Tapper, Ōmokoroa

Toy Library

Exciting news for the Ōmokoroa Toy Library, behind Settlers’ Hall We are now open on Sunday as well as Saturday The Sunday opening time is the same as Saturday, 9 30am to 11am Thanks again so much for supporting us

Sarah Roche, Ōmokoroa

Parking camera trial in Katikati

Roving parking cameras are being trialed in Katikati and Te Puke, to see if they would be of benefit to the Western Bay District

The three-month trial, by Western Bay of Plenty District Council, will use the License Plate Recognition (LPR) system, which is already used by a number of councils, including Tauranga City Council

The high-resolution cameras will capture licence plates and GPS locations of parked cars to identify those that have parked for longer than the designated time limit or that are parked illegally, for instance, on yellow lines No tickets will be issued as a result of the trial

Council is exploring the technology for a number of reasons, says Sophie Scholes, Council’s Team Leader Compliance Support

“In recent years, we have seen an increase in aggression towards parking officers The cameras would allow them to do their job safely without having to leave the car, ” she says

Another safety consideration is drivers causing hazards by parking where they shouldn’t, she adds

“Parking on yellow lines outside schools at drop-off and pick-up times is a growing problem The LPR system would help identify who is parking on the lines and act as a deterrent for unsafe parking ” It would also encourage a greater turnover of car parks in the town cen-

tres, which would benefit shops and businesses

“During the trial we will be collecting data and analysing it to see whether this is something that could help us keep a closer eye on parking and make our towns both safer and more accessible,” says Sophie

“You can expect to see our car around town, with two cameras on top, over the next 12 weeks, but we won’t be issuing any tickets for vehicles caught on camera If we do decide to go ahead, following the trial, we will give people plenty of advance warning ” Article supplied

The LPR cameras mounted on a Council car PHOTO: Supplied

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CPR: club project Rotary Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade

By Matthew Farrell

The medical first responders of the Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade

are extremely grateful after the peninsula’s new Rotary Club fundraised for a resuscitation mannequin

“It’s been on our wish list for a long time It measures the frequency of compressions, whether we ’ re on the right spot; if we do too much or too little oxygenation It’s a great tool for CPR training,” says team leader Hannelore Kemme

Rotary member Paul Douglas says they were staggered to raise more than $6,000 to bring the mannequin to life with serious support from sponsorships,

and the Menzshed offering a cabinet

Meredith Ahearn agrees their fellow Rotarians wanted a substantial cause for their recent Midwinter Christmas dinner

“Everybody seems to get behind the first responders because they’re Ōmokoroa ’ s first line of defence in any sort of emergency This project got us motivated and helped put the fire in our new club

We’re looking for more members, and this helps raise our profile in the community too,” she says

Everyone’s welcome to find Ōmokoroa Rotary either on Facebook or for a coffee at the Boat Club on the second and fourth Thursdays at 8am Contact Bronwyn Carter on omokoroarotary@gmail com or 021 236 4623

OBy Ian Blunt Chief Fire Officer

ur team of First Responders have been very busy in July being called to incidents on 22 occasions There were a number of cardiac arrests responded to by our staff, and quite a few persons suffering from chest pain which put added pressure on staff to help patients Credit to the team, they responded to all incidents quickly

and efficiently Thank you for your continued dedication, team

Firefighters have been very quiet in July responding once to a bathroom fire in Ross Road. Luckily the house owner managed to extinguish the fire as the smoke alarms he had installed in the house alerted him early when the fire was just beginning Value for money smoke alarms are a great asset in your home

On the tools

An Ōmokoroa handyman is hanging up his hat, and it’s a volunteer firefighter taking up those tools to expand his own contracting services Len Riggir known to some as the Anzac Day bugler, is retiring after 64 years of work, with Darren Wilks buying out his Lenny Fixit business He s got the right background Throw in some painting and engineering Once you have a building background, you can adapt very easily, says Len Already known locally for decks, fencing, and even renovations in recent years - Darren says he’ll be able to add offerings such as gardening to his Wilks Contracting projects PHOTO: Matthew Farrell

A new CPR mannequin provides hands-on training opportunities

Waihī Beach Lifeguard Services was well represented amongst the high calibre of finalists for the Surf Lifesaving New Zealand Eastern Region Awards of Excellence announced this past weekend

The Eastern Region of New Zealand’s surf lifesaving scene is one of the largest and strongest regions of the country, encompassing the three ‘giant’ clubs of the Mount Maunganui coast, Mount Maunganui, Omanu and Pāpāmoa, plus the eastern edge of the BOP with Ōpōtiki, Pukehina, Whakatāne and the whole

Waihī Beach Lifeguard Services Finalists

SPORT

Awards honour those who give a huge amount of time, effort and energy to providing exceptional surf lifesaving skills and service to their area as well as those who have achieved at the highest level in their fields

Waihī Beach Lifeguard Services is very proud to have had our Club Chairperson, Donna Pfefferle, recognised, winning the very prestigious and hard-fought-for Lottery Grants Board Volunteer of the Year award So many people give so much to

Lizard News has been nominated for the People’s Choice ‘Professional Service Business of the Year’ award in this year ’ s Katikati and Waihī Beach Community Business Awards

The awards are about celebrating the dedication, creativity, and service excellence that make our community the outstanding place that we all enjoy calling home

In addition to the Community Champion

of the Year award and special nominations for Business Excellence and Local of the Year awards which are judged, there are also ten categories under the ‘People’s Choice’ award

Lizard News feels honoured to be nominated alongside other very worthy contenders This category is for individuals or businesses demonstrating outstanding dedication, expertise, and commitment to serv-

the surf lifesaving movement, and as Board Chair for 11 years, Donna has been a true champion for the cause and the Club at Waihī Beach

Donna shares, “I am humbled the Club’s Awards Committee submitted my nomination, and to have been presented with the award as Coromandel Volunteer of the Year is an honour Receiving this award is a testament to the amazing volunteers I have the privilege of working alongside I am filled with gratitude for this recognition and very excited that we will be on patrol again in only a few months’ time ”

Waihī Beach honoured in Surf Lifesaving Awards Community Awards voting open

ing their community with in tegrity and excellence As this is one of the People’s Choice awards, voting is a crucial aspect of winning You can vote in up to 12 categories We would be pretty chuffed if readers would consider Lizard News a worthy recipient of ‘Professional Service Business of the Year’ Check out the nominees and vote today at tinyurl com/kkwbcavote

Article supplied

Georgia Walter Katikati

- Athlete of the Year - U14 Female

Max Morley, Waihī Beach

- Athlete of the Year - U15 Male

Tessa Scott, Hamilton

- Athlete of the Year - U15 Female

JUNIOR SURF

Sue Groenewald, Katikati - Junior Surf Contribution of the Year

LIFEGUARDING

Andrew Cochrane, Waihī Beach

- Powercraft Contribution of the Year

Jessica Meade, Waihī Beach

- Instructor of the Year & Paid Lifeguard of the Year

Sharlene Manukau, Katikati

- Patrol Support of the Year Award Winners SPORT

Simiosi Tukia, Thames

- Athlete of the Year - U14 Male

Keaton White Katikati

- Emerging Coach of the Year

Peter Hodgson, Whakamārama

- Coaches Commitment Award

LIFEGUARDING

Andrew Cochrane, Waihī Beach - Search and Rescue Contribution of the Year

OTHER

Donna Pfeﬀerle, Hamilton

– Eastern Region Volunteer of the Year

REGIONAL SERVICE AWARDS

Nicole Clare

Ella Higgins

Donna Pfeﬀerle

Maddie Scown

Nick Wagstaﬀ

DISTINGUISHED REGIONAL SERVICE AWARDS

Nick Wagstaﬀ Lucy Scown

Coromandel from Pauanui down to Waihī Beach

Keaton White won Emerging Coach of the Year

Waihī Beach Lifeguards Awards PHOTOS: Supplied

“

Transforming Tahāwai Reserve

his will be an asset for our community to enjoy for generations to come We are pleased to see our cultural heritage and history being respected and celebrated in this development The protection of our sacred sites is paramount, and the draft concept plan ensures this ”

That’s the view of Tuapiro Marae Chairperson Shaan Kīngi on the Kaupapa

Ōmokoroa By-election

Congratulations to new community board member Chris Dever who won the recent by-election

The full results are: Chris Dever 634, Murray Marshall 539, and Steve Ling 383

The voter return for this by-election was 37 17%, being 1,565 votes

Chris will be sworn into the role at Council’s next meeting on 15th August

Lost and found

Tauranga Police and Land Search and Rescue volunteers located a man reported to be lost in the Omanawa Falls area on Tuesday 23rd July

Around midday, Police received a mobile call from the man, who’d become lost near the end of McLaren Falls Road and Omanawa Road

Contact was then lost and couldn’t be reestablished He was found safe and well about 4 30pm

to transform Tahāwai Reserve, which includes the adjoining 16 Tanners Point Road and Te Poho Pā, into an inviting communal area that resonates with the diverse needs of the community

Developed in partnership with Ngāti te Wai hapū, along with Tanners Point residents, stakeholders and the Katikati Community Board, the proposal includes a new multipurpose hardcourt, viewing

Need medical transportation?

Ōmokoroa Community Church offers a volunteer service to assist you attend a medical or hospital appointment for a small donation Contact the church office on 548 2515 for help

Road to Rotorua

Two weeks of daytime closures are ahead on the direct road to Rotorua

Following geotechnical work after heavy rain in 2023, State Highway 36 Mangōrewa Gorge requires six weeks of underslip and wall repairs starting Monday 5th August

platform to Hikurangi Mountain and Mauao, potential future community building, and traditional rongoā l medicinal gardens

“This proposed development is a significant step forward for the community, which honours the past while creating new opportunities for future generations,” says Western Bay of Plenty District Council Senior Recreational

Connecting in Te Puna

This group meets on the second Friday of the month in the Te Puna Memorial Hall This month, instead of a guest speaker, we will invite you to share interesting, amusing, or inexplicable experiences Drop in for afternoon tea, 1-3pm, Friday 9th August To learn more, phone or text 021 223 9239

Champion pies

Pie legend Patrick Lam has struck gold again at the Bakels NZ Supreme Pie Awards

This year the Bethlehem baker has taken the nation’s top trophy for both steak and gravy, and vegetarian, with bronze for his potato top, and top ten placings for bacon and egg, steak and cheese, chicken and vegetable, and gourmet meat

The gold medal in the boutique cafe category went to Ms Kerry Wellman of Leeves at Portstone in Ōtūmoetai for her winter pudding

Planner Jason Crummer

“We’re also proud to be collectively respecting and acknowledging the area ’ s cultural and historical roots ”

Other design features in the draft concept plan include the enhancement to the existing open space with a new loop track, community garden, public facilities, and installation of cultural elements and informative signage

Jason encourages the community to share their feedback on the plan for Tahāwai Reserve to help understand what’s most important to them

“This feedback will guide our ongoing mahi to shape the future of this community asset,” says Jason

Longer term developments for this reserve that are also being considered include future cycleway and walkway connections along State Highway 2 and from Tahāwai Reserve to Tanners Point boat ramp, freedom camping at Tahāwai Reserve through the future Freedom Camping Bylaw review process and exploration of opportunities to access the Tuapiro Stream to the south/south-east of the Pā site

Join in the kōrero online l Wānanga ipurangi at haveyoursay westernbay govt nz/tahawaireserve or collect a hard copy l Pepa mārō from The CentrePātuki Manawa Katikati, Waihī Beach Library and Service Centre, or at our offices at Barkes Corner

Join us and provide feedback at our community information event on Sunday 11th August, 10am – 12pm, Tahāwai Reserve, Tanners Point Feedback closes 11:59pm Sunday 18th August Article supplied

KINGFISHER FAMILY TRUST OFFICE

WHEN AND WHERE:

9th August at Settlers’ Hall Ōmokoroa at 2pm

This complimentary seminar on Family Trusts will give you the know-how

Please phone now with any questions you may have on 021 830 308 or write to kingﬁsherfamilytrustoﬃce@gmail com No bookings required

Tremains Team Up for charity

By Sarah Rice and Alison Cowley

The hearing regarding TPIL-ContainerCo setting up in Te Puna Station Road happened at Baypark in early July The result? The hearing was adjourned

The commissioners in charge of making a decision decided, after three solid days of evidence from the applicant, the community, Western Bay of Plenty and the Regional Council, to adjourn the hearing due to the lack of evidence presented by the applicant Essentially, there are still no answers to stormwater manage-

Tremains Ōmokoroa is presenting a ‘big cheque’ for $500 each to the Ōmokoroa Athletics Club and The Centre as part of the Team Up promotion

Sales Consultant Noel Benstead says, “Basically, the Team Up campaign is a way for us to support charitable organisations and give back to the local community When someone lists their house with us, they nominate a group This can be someone already on our list or a new group When their house sells, Tremains donates $500 to the organisation of their choice ”

Tremains has local connections with Ōmokoroa Point School, Pahoia School, The Centre, Waipuna Hospice, Ōmokoroa golf, bowling, athletics and tennis clubs, and touch rugby

There are many more Team Ups across the Bay, including Katikati’s St John, Volunteer Fire Brigade, bowling, croquet, football and cricket clubs

“In reality, vendors are not necessarily

Priority Te Puna

ment, flood management, cultural mitigation, landscaping, and road and traffic management TPIL were proposing an average of one earthmoving truck down Te Puna Road every four and a half minutes during earthworks season for two years Pirirākau hapū voiced their concerns with strength and clarity. Their submissions from kaumātua and a Pirirākau Assessment of Cultural Effects report, which firmly opposed the development, were instrumental The council planners and the hearing commissioners took note of the community’s concerns and the evi-

dence being raised

Things that need to happen prior to the hearing being restarted are: a review of traffic and implications for Te Puna Road; a review of the state of Te Puna Station Road and potential implications on services such as the sewage pipe; further investigations for flooding implications; further investigations and modelling regarding stormwater management; further investigations on noise, including an understanding of our current base level plus further understanding of noise proposed and how this fits within the whole

associated with the charitable groups or know a new group they wish to include They simply nominate one from the list we have,” says Noel Congratulations to these recent recipients, and thanks to those vendors who nominated them.

business park noise ‘bucket’; and, further investigations of visual impacts in the rural setting

Proposed conditions that the applicants are being asked to meet are many and include an ongoing limit to traffic going to and from the site, a limit to the size of the ContainerCo site to respond to scope creep concerns, and a general authority application to Heritage NZ prior to any earthworks beginning An archaeological site has been identified, and submitters raised verbal histories of other finds being found over the years

L-R: Centre volunteers Jen Moleta Maggie Blair with Noel Benstead PHOTOS: Supplied

L-R: Noel Benstead and Janine Parker of Tremains with Nancy Bedore and children of the Ōmokoroa Athletics Club

Same, same but...

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Public Art Ōmokoroa: Library Project

By Alie Henderson

The first stage of the beautiful carved wall panel for the interior of the Ōmokoroa Library is now complete

The three ‘kete of knowledge’ are te ketetuatea | basket of light/present knowledge, te kete-tuauri | basket of darkness/things unknown, and te ketearonui |basket of pursuit/the knowledge humans currently seek

They were carved by Phil Hansen, Lance Gray, and Geoff Brann from Tauranga Woodcrafters’ Guild in partnership with Pirirākau, our local hapū

Members of Pirirākau are now working on the design for the final installation that will tell the pūrākau | story of Tāne’s

search for the kete of knowledge

The legend represents the never-ending pursuit of various forms of knowledge and wisdom It reminds us that nothing is impossible, illustrates the variety of skills and knowledge that make up our world, and affirms the value of learning and gaining understanding about many different areas in life

The project has been generously funded so far by the Creative Communities Scheme, a Western Bay of Plenty District Council Matching Fund, and the Ōmokoroa Centre Trust

And a sad note As I write this article I have just heard of the sad passing of Lance Gray We send our heartfelt sympathy and best wishes to his whānau

Do you need funding for an arts project that engages the Western Bay of Plenty community?

Creative Communities Scheme

Applications open Mon 5 Aug 2024

Applications close Thu 29 Aug 2024 www.creativebop.org.nz

To discuss your project, or for assistance with your application, join a free funding presentation or email annie@creativebop.org.nz

Funding Presentations

Te Puke

Thursday 15 August 2024, 1pm-2pm

Katikati Tuesday 20 August 2024, 1pm-2pm

Looking for easy volunteering?

By Alison Badger

The Old Library Ōmokoroa (TOLO) came into being as an art gallery and community craft enterprise in 2020 when Western Bay of Plenty DC moved its library and service centre to Western Avenue

TOLO is a not-for-profit, run by volunteers as a venue to promote the artistic and creative talents of our friends and neighbours, amateur and professional Exhibitions have included carvers, metalworkers, woodworkers, artists, photographers, creative fibre, cosplay/wearable art, historic musical instruments, and quilters, to name a few The August display is by the Ōmokoroa Photographic Society

In our craft collective, we have luxury patchwork cushions, fairy houses from salvaged materials, repurposed bottles into lamps, shopping bags from upcycled material, beautiful cutting boards and other wood products from the MenzShed, greetings cards from local artists Ōmokoroa History Group have fascinating displays of times gone by and also sells its books on local farming families and a wider view of Ōmokoroa past

We provide a meeting place for an Alzheimer’s Support group, the Peggy Purl knitting group, the Citizens Advice Bureau, Scott Simpson MP, and the new Stampin’ Studio We also act as a collection point for wine bottle tops and unwanted spectacles - things that are of no further use to us but can benefit someone by being passed on

Volunteers steward the premises from 10am-4pm six days a week (closed Mondays) and offer a friendly welcome, local knowledge and information, and enjoy interacting with new residents who may still be fitting into a new home and community It is perhaps the easiest type of volunteering

So there’s a lot going on and we offer a warm welcome to anyone who has three hours (or more) each month to fill Just pop in for a chat and a cuppa

Visit us on Facebook/omokoroagallery

Boomerang Bags

Thanks to the Ōmok MenzShed there is n stand located just in the door of Ōmokor Library to hold Boomerang Bags

The Ōmokoroa sewi group, which meets every Monday 1-3pm in the Whakamāram Room at the library, is grateful for the support of the Creat Communities Schem Ōmokoroa Centre T to support this upcy initiative Hopefully more Boomerang Ba locations will appea Ōmokoroa soon

PHOTO:

Liz Farrell

Kaha Movement, Katikati

L-R: Alie Henderson (PAŌ Chair) Geoff Brann Lance Gray Phil Hansen (carvers from Tauranga Woodcrafters Guild) and Ashley Grant (PAŌ Treasurer) PHOTO: Supplied

Discover why residents love Summerset by the Sea

At Summerset, our retirement villages are designed to make sure you get the best out of your retirement Summerset by the Sea in Katikati is no exception, with a select few homes available to move into now.*

Summerset by the Sea is a stunningly landscaped, contemporary village boasting scenic views across the water to Matakana Island The village provides easy access to state highways and is conveniently close to local amenities, making it an ideal retirement destination.

To see plans and pricing, get in touch with our Sales Manager, Fiona Nelson today to book your private appointment and see for yourself why our residents love the Summerset life.

Love the life you choose.

Show Home Open

Book a private appointment

Summerset by the Sea 181 Park Road, Katikati Call Fiona on 07 9 8 5 68 93

Artful Mind Collaborative Exhibition

Pablo Picasso said, “Art washes from the soul the dust of everyday life ” The power and benefits of creating art might appear difficult to quantify, but once you see them in action, you will know So, it is with the Artful Mind Collaborative Exhibition, which opens on Wednesday, 28th August, in The Incubator Creative Hub

The shared vision of this project by The Alzheimer’s Society was to enhance the lives of people living with dementia through the meaningful and purposeful activities of creating art and exhibiting the work, which in turn helps raise awareness of, and reduces the stigma often associated with dementia

Local artists will be working with people living with dementia in creative projects that will be exhibited in The Incubator Gallery Work produced by the clients themselves in creative projects that were therapeutic and cognitively stimulating will be exhibited as well

Those of you who view these works will expand your knowledge of dementia, witness a decrease in the stigma surrounding dementia and cognitive impairments, plus cultivate a deeper understanding and empathy for those living with dementia.

Tauranga, with its ageing population, faces a growing number of individuals affected by Alzheimer’s disease and de-

mentia The local Alzheimer’s Society strives to enhance functioning and alleviate distress associated with the condition Art has proven to be beneficial for individuals with dementia, promoting mindfulness, cognitive stimulation, and an improved quality of life

This project has enabled individuals living with dementia to develop cognitively stimulating creative skills, improve their quality of life, find a sense of purpose and express themselves through art with the guidance of local artists

Keeping people functioning better for longer and helping ease the distress and suffering from this disorder is one of the goals of the local Alzheimer’s society

Some of the artists involved in this powerful project include Jan Evans, Jacki Barklie, Ana Hancock, Damien Kurth, Cordula Taiwo, Merilynn Crean, Stephanie Harlan, and Bronwyn Copeland

The public is cordially invited to the opening preview which takes place on Wednesday, 28th August from 5 30pm at The Incubator Creative Hub, in The Historic Village, 17th Avenue, Tauranga The exhibition runs from 29th August till 21st September 2024. It is open from 10am till 3pm, Monday to Saturday to coincide with World Alzheimer’s Month Article supplied

WBy Gary Meynell

e all had a bit of fun this month with our portrait shots Portrait photography, also known as portraiture, focuses on capturing the personality of individuals or groups through effective lighting, backdrops, and poses A portrait photograph can be both artistic, highlighting creative elements, or clinical, focusing on exact representation

In preparation for taking our monthly themed image, we held a workshop to give everyone a few tips and tricks on how to best capture their subject The workshop covered various aspects such as choosing the right lighting setup, selecting appropriate backgrounds, and guiding the subject to achieve natural and engaging poses

After the workshop, we all went out

and practiced what had been taught Each member had the opportunity to apply the techniques in real-world scenarios, experimenting with different settings and approaches

Once everyone had their shots, we met up to have a look at everyone ’ s artistic flair This review session was not only a great way to see the diverse interpretations of portrait photography but also served as a valuable learning experience

We hope these portraits inspire you to pick up your camera and explore the world of portrait photography

Ngaire Fraser

Bob Jones

Crime and incident report July

By Senior Sergeant Steve Hindmarsh Burglaries

4th Shipping container broken onto behind Hammer Hardware, Katikati and products such as glue and the like taken A white utility vehicle was used in this crime

5th Alternative education building on Waterford Road, Katikati was broken into and 3 x LCD tv’s were stolen

6th Tool Shop generator stolen off a trailer on Gilfillan Drive, Katikati

9th overnight a Hyde Street, Katikati address was broken into A caged tandem trailer was also stolen from the property

10th Main Road, Katikati address entered, and a laptop, dive vest and a boat tank were stolen

14th Building site situated on Vesey Drive and Uretara Drive, Katikati had tools stolen. A police patrol responded to the report of noises from the site and located a person in a van nearby and tools hidden in bushes Enquiries are continuing

16th Canon Road, Tahāwai 4 x large bales of opossum fur stolen

17th Overnight a motor has been unbolted and stolen from a concrete mixer parked at a construction site on the corner of Middlebrook Drive and Hoggard Place, Katikati

18th Overnight a Prescott tandem trailer was stolen from a Busby Rd, Katikati property

19th-22nd Security fence cut to a Kauri Point property and a attempt has been made to get into a building

20th 4 alloy wheels stolen from a vehicle parked at a Rea Rd, Katikati address The vehicle was jacked up and left on blocks by the offenders

Theft

Petrol drive offs reported in Katikati and BP Te Puna

1st Excavator parked at the corner of Highfield Drive and Uretara Drive had a camera and diesel stolen overnight

11th Wallet stolen from vehicle parked on McMillan Road, Katikati 16th Parcel stolen from letterbox on Odey Road, Whakamārama

Found

Large tent found in Katikati

Arrests and apprehensions

Two males and a female aged 30, 33 and 26, all from Auckland were arrested after an alleged theft from Countdown, Katikati The arrests were carried out by the Tauranga Retail Crime Unit and Katikati Police One of the males was apprehended by Police after running off, and the other two were found in a vehicle nearby which had left the store

The 30-year-old has been charged with shoplifting x 1, the 33-year-old male has been charged with shoplifting x 3, and the 26-year-old female has been charged with shoplifting x 34 Two have been remanded in custody A number of other charges are expected to be laid The shoplifting offending has occurred between Tauranga and Auckland

4th 34-year-old Te Puna man charged with possessing methamphetamine and possession of an offensive weapon He was also breaching his bail conditions

5th 33-year-old Katikati man arrested for breaching bail conditions

5th 28-year-old Katikati man charged with receiving a number of stolen Ryobi tools taken in a burglary of a Thornton Rd, Katikati address All tools have been recovered.

As a result of an incident at a Tahāwai address on 9th a 33-year-old Tauranga man has been charged with two counts of wounding with intent to cause GBH He was remanded in custody to appear in the Tauranga DC on 15th Two men were hospitalised with serious injuries as a result of the attack

Police were called to a report of a male being unlawfully on a Ridge Drive, Ōmokoroa property with a torch at 1am on Friday The 50-year-old male of no fixed abode was located and charged with being unlawfully on property and possession of cannabis Police were called to another incident the following day and the male was arrested and charged with threatening and indecent language as well as three charges of shoplifting from Fresh Choice Ōmokoroa He was kept in custody to appear in court on 15th

13th 52-year-old Katikati man charged with driving with excess breath alcohol on Waterford Road, Katikati

14th 25-year-old Katikati man arrested on warrant for failing to appear in court

16th 32-year-old Katikati man arrested for breaching his bail conditions

17th 32-year-old Te Puna woman was arrested on a failing to appear warrant after a search warrant was executed at her Te Puna address She has also been charged with shoplifting x 6 She has been remanded in custody

17th 32-year-old Katikati man arrested for breaching his bail conditions.

18th 41-year-old Ōmokoroa man arrested for failing to appear in court on several shoplifting charges He has been remanded in custody

19th 25-year-old Whakamārama woman arrested for breaching bail conditions

20th 32-year-old Katikati man was arrested and charged with trespass x 2 and breaching his bail conditions He has been remanded in custody

20th 48-year-old Katikati man was arrested and charged with assaulting a person in a family relationship and assault with a weapon

21st 34-year-old Katikati man was arrested for threatening behaviour, resisting arrest and breaching bail conditions x 4. He has been remanded in custody

22nd 39-year-old Whakamārama man arrested for impeding breathing and assaulting a person in a family relationship

General

A number of road cones were damaged by a truck on SH2 Aongatete on 1st We are looking into this complaint

Damage reported to a rural gate on upper Hot Springs Road, Katikati

Tagging reported on fence at Main Road, Katikati

Neighbourly enough, or not?

By Matthew Farrell

Adeveloper building 100 homes at a 3-hectare site on the Ōmokoroa peninsula says 70 of the homes will support local families into affordable home ownership

New Zealand Housing Foundation says owning a home doesn’t have to be an impossible dream as they’ve helped make the goal a reality for hundreds of working families since 2007

NZHF says it works with families to help them develop a financial plan to get mortgage ready so they can buy their first home in partnership with NZHF They say, on average, families they work with take over the mortgage without their assistance within seven years A statement reads:

“The beauty of our model is we don’t just help with the affordability of taking on a mortgage; we build the houses ourselves

“These are warm, dry, quality, affordable homes that are typically less expensive than similar homes built for open market sale, helping to address the affordability challenge

“We are very excited that one of our newest developments is in the Western Bay of Plenty, where demand for housing is outstripping what is being built ” However, several residents of Pip Way, Tūī Glen, and Kayelene Place have told Lizard News the developer has failed to meet neighbourly commitments made months ago

Senior Development Manager Nicolas Giraldo provided the following statement:

“We have tried to minimise the impact of the construction activities on our exist-

ing resident neighbours by implementing a number of measures, such as frequent street cleaning and limiting the hours that contractors can work However, we do acknowledge that construction can be disruptive We encourage any of our neighbours that might have a concern to get in touch with us, ” he says

One resident, Nita Nooyen, has raised concerns since February, when she wrote:

“The biggest issue has been dust and dirt generated by the constant stream of tractors and trailers removing soil via both Pip Way and Kayelene Place We have asked repeatedly for them to address debris from the vehicles being left on residential streets ”

Nita received an apology from Nicolas as follows

“I understand an incident occurred between street cleans, and our contractor has assured me that it will not be re-

peated We want to uphold high standards in the work we do and, unfortunately, on this occasion, we have fallen short and have apologised to our neighbours,” he said

In April, May, and June, there followed written requests from Nita for house exteriors to be cleaned and air conditioning units to be serviced, along with complaints of trucks, nail guns, and saws starting well before 7am

Last month, Nita wrote, “We find Housing Foundation to be very poor neighbours They have broken promises and refused to respond to communications ”

Nicolas Giraldo says the project is shifting into house construction, and a local project manager who can visit the site more often has now been appointed

“As I said during our face-to-face meetings last year, we want to be good neighbours, and if the earthworks and civil

works have dirtied your house, then it is only fair that we wash it I suspect that winter is not the best time to do this work, and spring would be better, so I propose to contact you later in the year to gain your permission and organise access for this,” he emailed

Nicolas says he has since spoken to Ms Nooyen, but another resident tells Lizard News he is awaiting for a response to his questions

“The current heavy truck and tractor activity at the end of Tūī Glen appears to be commercial activity in a residential area Truckloads of different materials are brought in, mixed on-site, and appear to be transported to other sites

“We’ve had two years of site establishment disturbance, and they are now making a mess that seems to be for developments elsewhere

“Housing Foundation guaranteed to residents that Tūī Glen wouldn’t be used for heavy trucks at all, yet here is an activity doing exactly what they promised not to, and apparently for purposes other than the building activities specified

“Then there is also the question of compensation for the dust, nuisance, and disruption I have had to water blast my home at least once every three months and wash my outside windows weekly

“I cannot even sit outside and enjoy the sunshine due to noise and dust pollution I’ve never had lung problems before Now I have had pneumonia twice in six months, and I am not the only one to have had severe breathing issues,” he says Lizard News has received email contact from residents since February, has occasionally contacted Nicolas Giraldo, and will continue to engage in dialogue

Tuesday 13 August 4.30pm-6.30pm Ōmokoroa Spor ts Pavilion Social Space (smaller room) He pātai ōu mō a mātou mahi ki Ōmokoroa?

Come kōrero with us on the latest projects shaping your community.

Find out what roadworks are coming up over the next six months

View a vir tual ‘ flyover’ of the SH2 / Ōmokoroa Road intersection upgrade

Understand what the new medium density housing standards could mean for you

The construction site off Kayelene Place PHOTO: Supplied

CBy Matthew Farrell

yclists and walkers are being reminded to respect the temporary closure of a track across private land in Ōmokoroa, blocked off to allow contractors to work safely

The developer of the last remaining sections in Lynley Park has been upgrading the water infrastructure immediately next to the trail at the end of Lakeside Terrace

It is not Council land Public access was granted in 2017 as a goodwill gesture until early May, due to both practicalities and health and safety concerns.

Adjoining residents, the contractor, and Durham Properties are reporting a small number of the public are deliberately disregarding the trail closure and detour signs

Some have entered neighbouring private gardens and pushed around fencing barriers, including times when the contractor is operating machinery

A Council spokesperson says in some instances, contractors have also been verbally abused

“Poor decision making by a few is causing much frustration and timewasting This is unacceptable, selfish, and disrespectful to private landowners

“A perfectly good detour route is signposted along newly constructed paths

Private properties no barrier to some Mayoralty mahi begins for Mahé

“The trail isn’t expected to reopen until late August, so I feel sorry for these property owners having to deal with the uncaring few,” one local tells Lizard News

Eventually, when the Durham Properties subdivision at Mangawhai Place is completed and land titles have been released, the closed trail section will transfer to Council ownership, vested as a local purpose esplanade reserve for public use

FBy Matthew Farrell

ormer Olympic rowing champion

turned City mayor, Mahé Drysdale, says the challenge for Tauranga’s new council will be engaging more with the community to deliver what people want Drysdale secured the mayoralty in July with 16,606 votes ahead of Greg Brownless on 10,510 They were followed by Ria Hall on 9,077 and Tina Salisbury on 7,388 then 11 others

75 candidates vied for 10 seats at the

council table to replace a four-person commission in place since February 2021, when the council was sacked for dysfunction

Only two former councillors were elected 45-year-old Drysdale says the new team must use everyone ’ s skills to start delivering better value for the spending of ratepayer money

The final returns rate was low at 38 7 per cent after all special votes were processed

City Council governance manager

Christine Jones says 86 per cent of all votes came through orange voting bins placed at supermarkets around Tauranga She says the council would support online voting, if it was introduced by central government for local body elections

Local Government New Zealand’s electoral reform group has been looking at voting methods, polling oversight and four-year terms for councils instead of the current three years

Reform group chair Nick Smith says there are questions over the viability of postal voting with the decline in postal services and most people doing business online

Voters also had the chance to elect a Māori ward councillor for the first time, choosing Mikaere Sydney for Te Awanui ward, ahead of runner-up Suaree Borell of Whakamārama

Includes reporting from LDR, local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air

Mahé Drysdale says his number one priority is working as a team with the newly elected council PHOTO: Alisha Evans/SunLive

Workers have fenced off a section of the cycleway passing through private property PHOTO: Kirk Edwards/Facebook

DaTEs for your Diary – WEEKLY EVENTS

Here are some of the groups and activities which happen regularly in the area. If you have a regular group you’d like to add to the list, please

This is presented as a guide We recommend you check with organisers beforehand

The Old Library Ōmokoroa (TOLO), McDonnell Street 10am-4pm Tuesday-Sunday Local history, community information and art for sale Contact Alison on 021 294 9294

Ōmokoroa Cafe Cruisers cycle group Monday, Friday and Sunday 9am at Ōmokoroa Library for local and away rides Manual and ebikes welcome FB: Ōmokoroa Cafe Cruisers for details

MONDAYS

Ladies’ Fitness Classes at 8am on Pahoia Road at the Cow Shed Gym Anneli 021 077 5416

Device Advice Katikati Community Centre from 9am $10 after 2 free sessions Please book on 07 549 0399

Homewood Park Tennis Club 9am start 30A Park Road, Katikati New members welcome Email katikati tennis@outlook com

Ōmokoroa Playcentre Behind Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 9am-12 30pm

omokoroa@playcentre org nz

Pilates Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 9 15-10 15am

Contact Claudia 021 192 7706

Scrabble at Ōmokoroa Library and Pātuki Manawa 10am Refreshments provided Free Postnatal Support Group 10am-12pm

Bethlehem Birthing Centre All parents and caregivers of children under two welcome Phone 549 4522

Keep On Your Feet Strength and balance classes for older adults 11am-noon Ōmokoroa Settlers Hall Sharnie 021 1118617

Western Bay Museum Guided Tour 11am

WBOP residents and ratepayers FREE 32 Main Rd, Katikati Ph 07 549 0651

Justice of the Peace clinic 11am-1pm at Waihī Library, 40 Rosemont Street

Ōmokoroa Indoor Bowls 1pm for 1 30pm play

Ōmokoroa Settler’s Hall Call Aileen on 027 300 5364

Scottish Country Dancing 1-3 pm St Peter’s Anglican Church Beach Road $4 All ages no partner required Call Douglas 021 0244 6099

Ōmokoroa Sewing Group Boomerang Bags or BYO project Ōmokoroa Library Whakamārama Room (downstairs) 1-3pm Bring your own machine/extension cable if you have one Bolivia Katikati Christian Centre Henry Road

1-4pm Some knowledge of canasta useful

Contact Christine 549 5601 or 027 434 9842

Movie Matinee 1 30pm at the Arts Junction,

Katikati Tickets $12 Limited seats 549 5250

Bridge Club Ōmokoroa Sports Pavilion

afternoons Call Lyn Chaston 022 165 0820

omokoroabridgeinvs@gmail com

IGIRLZ Activities for girls 8 - 11 6-7 30pm

Ōmokoroa Community Church Hall

Call 548 2515

Yoga Ōmokoroa Settlers Hall 6-8pm Contact Mollie 021 177 8018

Table Tennis Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 18+ 8pm

$5 per person White-sole shoes preferred steve thacker@hotmail com

Social indoor netball term time 6pm Apata

Community Hall, Pahoia School Ages 11+, all

levels $5 Call Kirsten 022 535 1530

Hatha Yoga at Ōmokoroa Sports Pavilion 7pm

Stefan 022 477 3809, email stefan@mlyoga co nz

or visit www mlyoga co nz

Cards 500 7pm Ōmokoroa Bowling Club $3 incl

tea and biscuits Carpooling from Katikati

available Call Lorraine Taylor on 548 1404

Indoor Bowls 7pm at Waihī Beach RSA

Contact Grant on 027 475 0556

TUESDAYS

Social Tennis Waihī Beach Tennis Club 8 30/9

am start All year Casual & new players welcome

Call Kevin 027 273 5655

Te Puna Quarry Park clearing, planting and

weed control from 8am and from 1 30pm

Contact Shirley on 552 2707

Hatha Yoga at Te Puna Hall 9am with Stefan

Ph 022 477 3809, email stefan@mlyoga co nz or

visit www mlyoga co nz

Ōmokoroa Playcentre Behind Ōmokoroa

Settlers’ Hall 9am-noon

omokoroa@playcentre org nz

Te Puna Playcentre 9am-1pm term times only

225 Te Puna Road te puna@playcentre org nz

MenzShed Ōmokoroa 7 Prole Road, Ōmokoroa 9am-1pm Welcome to just call in or email info@menzshedomokoroa org

Te Puna Tennis Club casual tennis 9am start

Contact Catherine tptennisclub@gmail com or 021 506 855

Mainly Music Ōmokoroa Pavilion 9 30am in term times $4 per family Annie 0274 878 372

Kaimai Coast Creative Fibre Ōmokoroa

Settlers’ Hall 1st 3rd and 5th Tuesdays at 10 30am Spin, weave, felt, knit, crochet, etc

Email franceskellynz@gmail com

Tai Chi 9 30-10 30am Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall

Call Marilyn on 027 630 4063 or Anne 548 0763

Keep on your Feet strength & balance for older adults 10 30-11 30am Katikati Rugby & Sports Club, Moore Park Sharnie 021 111 8617

Justice of the Peace clinic at Waihī Beach Library 11am-noon

Waihī Beach Bowls at Memorial RSA Bowling Club Roll-up, names in by 12 30 for 1 o ’clock

start All welcome Bowls and coaching available Contact 021 0220 4040, 027 863 1349, waihibeachbowls@gmail com

Ōmokoroa Bowling Club 12 30 to 4pm

30 Hamurana Road Beginners and visitors

welcome $5 Ph 021 255 6415

Katikati Bridge Club Katikati Memorial Hall Lounge 12 50pm All levels welcome Contact Margaret 027 406 0994

Mahjong Circle 1pm at the Ōmokoroa Sports Pavilion, Western Avenue Call Suzanne 027 477 2010 or Margaret 548 2126

Gentle Yoga at Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall

4–5 30pm One free trial class Contact: Karin 548 1787 or baysyoga@xtra co nz

Ōmokoroa Runners Collective meet 6pm at Pavilion bike rack 4km or 7km All welcome

Ōmokoroa Tennis Club 6-8pm Contact Sharon Parker on 027 261 9517

Ōmokoroa Indoor Bowls 6 30pm Ōmokoroa

Settler’s Hall Call Aileen on 027 300 5364

Katikati Toy Library 6 30pm-8pm at the back of the Christian Centre on Henry Rd, Katikati FB: ‘Katikati Toy Library’, text 027 551 5589 or E: katikatitoylibrary@gmail com

Te Puna Bridge Club at Te Puna Tennis Club

6 45pm start Contact Richard Comyn 027 552 0917 or richard comyn@gmail com All welcome

Kaimai Coast Creative Fibre St Paul’s Hall, Katikati 2nd & 4th Tuesdays at 7pm Spin, weave, felt, knit, crochet, etc Email franceskellynz@gmail com

WEDNESDAYS

Ladies Fitness Classes at 8am on Pahoia Road at the Cow Shed Gym - Anneli 021 077 5416

Katikati Coffin Club 78a Prestidge Road (off Morton Road) 8 30am-noon $10 lifetime

membership Contact John Russell

Whakamārama Hall regular events

PRESCHOOL PLAYGROUP

Thursdays 9 30-noon (during term time) This is a friendly free group with a fantastic range of toys and great indoor and outdoor spaces Email Dayna, on daynarowe83@hotmail com for more information

WHAkAmāRAmA EmAILS

Community news including lost and found animals items for sale excess fruit and vegetables and rentals wanted To receive these email Carolyn at rossroad@eol co nz HALL BOOkINGS

Whakamārama Hall bookings are now available online To check availability and to make bookings head to spacetoco com Keyword Whakamārama Community Centre

afactor@xtra co nz or 027 281 7629

Kaimai Ramblers day tramp Good standard of fitness required, boots recommended Call Lisa 021 044 6449, or Kevin 021 0200 6306

Hatha Yoga at Ōmokoroa Sports Pavilion 9am with Stefan Ph 022 477 3809 email stefan@mlyoga co nz or visit www mlyoga co nz

Homewood Park Tennis Club 9am start 30A Park Road, Katikati New members welcome Phone Cushla 027 414 2587

Pilates Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 9 15-10 15 Contact Claudia 021 192 7706

Community Tai Chi Waihī Beach RSA 9 30am during school terms Contact Trish 021 482 842 Knit & Natter at both Ōmokoroa Library and Pātuki Manawa, Katikati 10am Free FLexercise exercise, movement, dance, for posture, strengthening & stretching All ages & abilities 10am Memorial Hall Katikati Phone Pam 021 11 77 170 Ōmokoroa Artists Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 10 45am-3 30pm Contact Brian 027 543 2777 or Facebook page: Ōmokoroa Artists Katikati Bowling Club Combined Roll-up 1 30pm, names in by 1 15pm Coaching available Social activities to follow 8 Park Road ph 549 0103

Katikati Toy Library 2 30pm-4pm at the back of the Christian Centre on Henry Rd, Katikati FB: ‘Katikati Toy Library’, text 027 551 5589 or E: katikatitoylibrary@gmail com Grow On Seedlings Club Katikati Community Centre 3-4pm 1st & 3rd Wednesdays of month, term time Intro to gardening for children aged 6-10 years Call Janet 021 0236 7038

Open Saturdays and Sundays 9.30 - 11am

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY – WEEKLY EVENTS

Here are some of the groups and activities which happen regularly in the area. If you have a regular group you’d like to add to the list, please email

Yoga Ōmokoroa Settlers Hall 7-8pm Contact Sarah 021 022 19892

Hatha Yoga at Whakamārama Hall, 7pm with Stefan Ph 022 477 3809, email

stefan@mlyoga co nz or visit www mlyoga co nz

Casual Soccer at 7 15pm at Western Ave Sports Grounds bottom field Over 12 years old Call Hamish on 552 6427

THURSDAYS

Katikati drop-in Community Breakfasts 7 308 30am Baptist Church, 2 Wedgewood St Free entry All welcome Pick Up/Drop Off Service and shower facilities available 549 0399

Ōmokoroa Rotary meets fortnightly at 8am at Ōmokoroa Boat Club Contact Bronwyn Carter on omokoroarotary@gmail com or 021 236 4623 or find us on Facebook

Yoga Ōmokoroa Sports Pavilion 8 45-9 45 am and 6-7pm Contact Brooke 021 878 838

MenzShed Ōmokoroa 7 Prole Road, Ōmokoroa 9am-1pm Welcome to just call in or email info@menzshedomokoroa org Pickleball at Waihī Beach Community Centre

9 30-11am Bats balls courts and nets provided $3 per session Call Phil on 021 624 908 Ōmokoroa Playcentre Behind Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 9am-noon omokoroa@playcentre org nz

Tai Chi 9 30-11 00am Te Puna Memorial Hall

Contact David 027 222 2824

Tai Chi 9 30-10 30am Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall

Call Marilyn 027 630 4063 or Anne 548 0763

Katikati Embroidery Group 10am St Pius Church, Beach Road Call Edna 027 474 9946

Preschool Storytime ‘Read Sing Move’ at 10am at Katikati Library Caregivers, please stay with your children Free to attend

Ōmokoroa Community Garden working bee 10-noon Hamurana Road, south entrance to Ōmokoroa Point School Weather permitting Diabetes NZ Drop-in group 10-noon 177a Fraser Street, Tauranga 571 3422

tauranga@diabetes org nz

Justice of the Peace clinic 10am-12pm at Ōmokoroa Library & Service Centre

Western Bay Museum Guided Tour 11am

WBOP residents and ratepayers FREE 32 Main Rd Katikati Ph 07 549 0651

Pilates Ōmokoroa Settlers Hall 11 30am12 30pm Contact Claudia 021 192 7706

Rummikub at Katikati Bowling Club 8 Park Rd,

Katikati 1pm start, $3 per person

Te Puna Quarry Park clearing, planting and weed control 1-4pm Contact Shirley 552 2707

Line Dancing Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall

Beginners-Intermediate 1-3pm Call Joce 021 486 265

Movie Matinee 1 30pm at the Arts Junction

Katikati Tickets $12 Limited seats 549 5250

Genies Unbottled Belly Dance Small friendly sessions of 5 people 5 30 & 7 05pm Te Puna

Beginners welcome Contact Linley 027 286 3452

Ōmokoroa Songsters Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall, term time from 7-8:30pm Contact Jan Murray 027 286 1552

Katikati Concert Band 7-9pm Katikati Bowling Club We welcome all ages and experience

Contact Eryl 021 404 163

Bridge Club Ōmokoroa Sports Pavilion in the evening Call Lyn Chaston 022 165 0820

omokoroabridgeinvs@gmail com

Katikati Toastmasters Club Communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater selfconfidence and personal growth 7 30pm on 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursdays at Community Centre, Beach Road Contact 027 579 9001

FRIDAYS

Ladies Fitness Classes at 8am on Pahoia Road at the Cow Shed Gym - Anneli 021 077 5416

Social Tennis Waihī Beach Tennis Club 8 30/

9 am start All year Casual & new players

welcome Call Kevin 027 273 5565

Friends of the Blade direct message the Facebook: Friends of the Blade or email noelenetaylor57@gmail com

Pilates mat class 9am at Ōmokoroa Pavilion

Social Room Nicole 022 409 7109

Ladies Singles Tennis 9am at Ōmokoroa Tennis Club, Western Ave, Ōmokoroa Enjoy some competitive but fun games

Line Dancing Ōmokoroa Settlers Hall General session 9am-noon Call Shirley on 548 1633

Ōmokoroa Playcentre Behind Ōmokoroa

Settlers’ Hall 9am-12 30pm

omokoroa@playcentre org nz

Preschool Storytime ‘Read Sing Move’ at 10am at Ōmokoroa Library Caregivers please stay with your children Free to attend

Justice of the Peace clinic 10am-noon

Bethlehem Community Church, 138 Moffat Road

Justice of the Peace clinic 10am-noon Katikati

Community Centre, 45 Beach Road

Ōmokoroa Friendship Club Ōmokoroa

Community Church Hall 10am-12 15pm for $4

Morning tea and lunch provided Drop in or call

Lorraine Taylor 548 1404

Ōmokoroa Singles over 60s meet for friendship, coffee outings etc 11am Ōmokoroa Boat Club

Phone 021 627 107 or email omokoroa senior singles@gmail com

Waihī Beach Bowls at Memorial RSA Bowling Club Roll-up, names in by 12 30 for 1 o ’clock

start All welcome Bowls and coaching available

Contact 021 0220 4040, 027 863 1349, waihibeachbowls@gmail com

Bolivia Cards Ōmokoroa Bowling Club 12 45pm Contact Janet on 0274 467472

Katikati Senior Citizens Indoor Bowls 12 45pm at Katikati Memorial Hall Contact Chris 549 0958

Cards 500 at Katikati Bowling Club 8 Park Rd, Katikati 1-4pm $2 per person

Katikati Plant & Produce Market A&P

Showgrounds 3 30-5 30pm Contact Pauline Van Rijen 549 2449

SATURDAYS

Junior Tennis Coaching at Ōmokoroa Tennis Club Members and Non-members welcome Visit omokoroatennis com for information and to book

Waihī Beach Farmers Market 8am-12noon at Waihī Beach School Produce, music, kids’ activities Stalls $35 casual or $25 members

To 27th April 2024 Contact info@waihibeachfarmersmarket co nz

Katikati Toy Library 9-10am at the back of the Christian Centre on Henry Rd Katikati FB: Katikati Toy Library , text 027 551 5589 or E: katikatitoylibrary@gmail com

Friends of Cooney Reserve 9am Bring sturdy footwear and gloves, and tools if you wish Contact Chris Cole (text only) 0274 545 586 Ōmokoroa Crochet Group Whakamārama Room (downstairs) at Ōmokoroa Library 9 1511 15 (ish) Refreshments provided MenzShed Ōmokoroa 7 Prole Road Ōmokoroa 9am-1pm Welcome to just call in or email

info@menzshedomokoroa org

Grow On Katikati 9 30-10 30 Pick up/drop off seeds and seedlings for community food resiliency Next to Katikati Community Centre growonkatikati@gmail com

Katikati Mini Kickers From 9 30am for children born between 2016-2020 Contact Caroline on 027 551 5589 or katikatifirstkicks@gmail com

Ōmokoroa Toy Library 9 30-11am behind the Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall omokoroatoylibrary@gmail com Tai Chi Katikati Community Centre 10-11am Ōmokoroa Community Garden working bee 10-noon Hamurana Road, south entrance to Ōmokoroa Point School Weather permitting Western Bay Museum Guided Tour Noon WBOP residents and ratepayers FREE 32 Main Rd, Katikati Ph 07 549 0651 Ōmokoroa Bowling Club 12 30 to 4pm 30 Hamurana Road Beginners and visitors welcome $5 Ph 021 255 6415 Homewood Park Tennis Club 1pm start 30A Park Road, Katikati New members welcome Phone Michael 027 473 1540 Katikati Bowling Club Combined Roll-up 1 30pm Names in before 1 15pm Coaching available Social club day activities to follow 8 Park Rd Katikati 07 549 0103

Boomerang Bags Katikati Sew reusable fabric community shopping bags Txt Robyn on 021 158 4038 to join or donate fabric Every other Saturday from 9th April at Katikati College Fabric Tech Room from 1pm Masks required Ōmokoroa Tennis Club 2-4pm Contact Sharon Parker on 027 261 9517 Catholic Vigil Mass 5pm Ōmokoroa Community Church

SUNDAYS

Athenree Homestead 360 Athenree Road Enjoy the homestead and gardens ($5 donation for Homestead entry) Every Sunday, 11am-3pm from Jan–March, and first Sunday of the month Apr to Dec athenreehomestead org nz

Ōmokoroa Toy Library 9 30-11am behind the Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall omokoroatoylibrary@gmail com

Movie Matinee 1 30pm at the Arts Junction Katikati Tickets $12 Limited seats 549 5250 Jam session Waihī Beach Hotel 60 Wilson Road 4-7pm Everyone welcome

Year-round swimming in Ōmokoroa interest you? Russell: 021 153 0767 or mothcork@gmail com Join us & swim for health & well-being

Thu 1st Ōmokoroa Peninsula Club 1st Thursdays, 9 30am Ōmokoroa Community Church Geoff Gripton: 548 1027 or Fred Hartley: 548 1939

Fri 2nd On Point Coffee Club Coffee & chat 1st Fridays, 1 30pm, Ōmokoroa Boat Club Lorraine Barnes: 548 2351

Sat 3rd Grow On Katikati Crop Swap Seeds, produce, seedlings, preserves, jams, baking etc 1st Saturdays Katikati Community Centre, 9 30-10 30am Jizzy: 549 2337 or Marie: 929 7906

Sat 3rd August Kinky Boots the musical on the big screen 2pm, The Arts Junction Fundraiser for Abbeyfield WBOP Tickets from The Arts Junction

Sun 4th Katikati Folk Open Mic 3pm 1st Sundays Blackboard (open mic) session Forta Leza, 2656 SH2, Aongatete

Mon 5th U3A Art Group 10am-noon 1st & 3rd Mondays Waihī Bowling Club $2 Bring materials Jose Jebb: 027 457 0242

Mon 5th Bethlehem/Te Puna Lions Club Community Centre Hall, Tangitū Road 1st & 3rd Mondays 6pm Colin: 576 9110

Tue 6th Katikati Small Business Network 10-11am Chrome Café, Katikati Connect with other business owners, gain invaluable support in an encouraging environment 1st & 3rd Tuesdays 549 5250

Tue 6th Katikati Lions Business Meeting 1st Tuesdays at the Business Hub, 21 Main Road, Katikati 7–9pm

Wed 7th Aongatete Forest Project working bee Top of Wright Road 9am12 30pm 1st & 3rd Wednesdays Visit aongateteforest org/join

Wed 7th Waihī Beach FOCUS Group 10am Waihī Beach RSA Interesting speakers, conversation, & people 1st Wednesdays

Wed 7th Kati Chat 10-11am at The Arts Junction, Katikati Join us for morning tea and learn what Katikati has to offer you from guest speakers of local organisations Free event All welcome

Wed 7th Citizens Advice Ōmokoroa 13pm The Old Library Ōmokoroa 1st & 3rd Wednesdays No appt req’d

Thu 8th Business Breakfast 7am Pātuki Manawa 2nd Thursdays Register www theartsjunction org nz

Thu 8th Friends of Puketoki

Trapping/checking 2nd Thursdays Meet Leyland Road carpark John: 548 1180 or Terry: 552 6222

Thu 8th Ōmokoroa Business Network 9am coffee, Boat Club, 2nd Thursdays omokoroabusinessnetwork@gmail com

Thu 8th Katikati Genealogy Group 2nd Thursdays, Red Cross, 33 Middlebrook Drive, 1 30pm $5 junegrant7@xtra co nz

Fri 9th Connecting in Te Puna 1-3pm Te Puna Memorial Hall 2nd Fridays Gold coin Afternoon tea incl All welcome Call 021 223 9239

Sat 10th Katikati Tramping Club An easy, 2-3 hours tramp through Waitekohe Reserve (off Lund Road) To join in contact leader Keith on 0275 675 259 or kpyle@xtra co nz by 7 30pm on preceding Friday

Sat 10th Katikati Town & Country

Market 2nd Saturdays 9am-1pm Katikati Memorial Hall Angie: info@town&country nz or 021 203 9554

Sat 10th Patchwork Quilting Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 9am-4 30pm 2nd Saturdays Christine: 027 280 1344

Sun 11th Line Dancing fundraiser Katikati War Memorial Hall 11am-4pm $5 entry plus raffles, etc BYO lunch Hot drinks provided lurline plummer@gmail com

Profits to St Johns Ambulance and St Pauls

Sun 11th Katikati Psychic Cafe Katikati

Community Centre, 45 Beach Road 2nd & 4th Sundays 7-9pm $10 cash 027 336 3896 or FB: Katikati Psychic Cafe

Tue 13th Adults Activity Class All ages and abilities mind and body exercises 2nd Tuesdays St Peters Church Hall Katikati 11am donation appreciated Ph 027 274 8753 email gayehemsley@gmail com

Tue 13th Ōmokoroa development update from WBOPDC Ōmokoroa Pavilion

4 30-6 30pm Public drop-in session includes info on roading, Heartwood pedestrian bridge, and the wetland at the end of Prole Road

Tue 13th Ōmokoroa Photographic Society Sports Pavilion Social Room All levels welcome 7-9pm 2nd Tuesdays omokoroaphotoclub@gmail com

Tue 13th Katikati Creative Fibre 7pm on 2nd Tuesdays St Paul’s, Mulgan Street $5 marparmail@gmail com

Wed 14th AA Driver and Licensing mobile

unit at Katikati Community Centre Walk-in service 9 30am-4pm 2nd Wednesdays

Wed 14th U3A general monthly meeting 10am-12pm Pātuki Manawa – beside the library Speaker: John Bothwell, Katikati First Response Team and John Parker, NZ Red Cross

Wed 14th Ōmokoroa & Districts Lions Club 6pm Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall, 2nd Wednesdays Alan Lacey 021 298 2424

Wed 14th Katikati Herb Society 2nd Wednesdays 7pm St Paul’s Church Jenny Ager-Pratt: 027 309 9695

Wed 14th AA/NZTA driver & vehicle licencing Mobile unit in Katikati 2nd Wednesdays 9 30-4pm 0800 822 422

Thu 15th Fun Mixed Doubles Ōmokoroa Tennis Club Western Ave 3rd Thursdays, 5 30-7 30pm

Thu 15th Café Scientifique 7pm at The Arts Junction, Katikati All welcome Topic: The Australasian bittern

Fri 16th Andrew London Duo presented by Katikati Folk Club, 7 30pm The Arts Junction, Katikati

Sat 17th Courageous Conversations about endings in living, dying and death Ōmokoroa Library, Whakamārama Room 9 30-11am Gold coin Carol 021 878 730

Sun 18th Friendship Force Ōmokoroa Setters’ Hall 3rd Sunday evenings Jonathan: 572 2091

Mon 19th Bethlehem/Te Puna Lions Community Centre Hall, Tangitū Road 1st & 3rd Mondays 6pm Colin: 576 9110

Tue 20th Book Buzz Share your favourite reads with other book lovers 3rd Tuesdays 10am Ōmokoroa Library

Tue 20th Katikati Small Business Group 10-11am Chrome Café, Katikati Connect with business owners; gain invaluable support Encouraging environment 1st & 3rd Tuesdays 549 5250

Tue 20th Innovation Garden Club 1 303pm, 3rd Tuesdays Waihī Beach RSA 027 289 7674 or innovationgardenclub@gmail com

Tue 20th Katikati Youth Theatre Ages 12-30 Games, learning, fun Supper included 3rd Tuesdays, 7-9pm Arts Junction kkyouththeatre@gmail com

Wed 21st Aongatete Forest Project working bee Top of Wright Road 9am-12 30pm 1st & 3rd Wednesdays

aongateteforest org/join

Wed 21st Xero Training 10am-noon The Arts Junction Free for non-profits, $20 for businesses Register at theartsjunction org nz by 19th August

Wed 21st Citizens Advice Ōmokoroa 1-3pm, The Old Library 1st & 3rd Wednesdays No appt req’d

Wed 21st Business After Five 5 15pm 3rd Wednesdays Ph 07 549 5250 for event location

Thu 22nd Probus Club of Ōmokoroa 9 30-11 30am Settlers’ Hall 4th Thursdays Wavyne: 548 1233 or Jean: 548 2239

Sat 24th Katikati Tramping Club An easy tramp to Otanewainuku trig (1 5 hours) and waterfall (2 hours) To join in, contact Laraine 021 0737 084 or laraine hughes9@gmail com by 7 30pm on preceding Friday night

Sat 24th Eileen’s Market 8 30am-12pm, Katikati Memorial Hall

Sat 24th Katikati Lions Garage Sale 4th Saturdays, behind Caltex, Main Road 9amnoon Tools, furniture, books, art & more 578 1073

Sun 25th Pest Trap Library The container next to Whakamārama Hall 3-5pm Last Sundays

Sun 25th Katikati Psychic Cafe Community Centre, 45 Beach Road 2nd & 4th Sundays 7-9pm $10 cash 027 336 3896 or FB: Katikati Psychic Cafe

Fri 30th Katikati Waihī Beach Business Awards Peoples’ Choice voting closes at 5pm

Fri 30th Albi and The Wolves presented by Katikati Folk Club, 7 30pm The Arts Junction, Katikati

Sat 31st Repair Cafe makers, tinkerers & fixers diverting broken items from landfill 8 30am-noon Last Saturdays 148 Durham Street, Tauranga repaircafe@tinkd nz

Sat 31st Ōmokoroa Market 9am-1pm Crafts, art, produce, bbq, plants, car boot, cafe & more Last Saturdays omokoroamarket@gmail com

Sat 31st Pink Ribbon Lunch with Ben Hurley Katikati College 11am-1pm $35pp or $250 table of 8 Book via Humanitix

Slotcar Club Ōmokoroa to race club class saloons Controllers & cars provided for all Steve: 021 163 2055 for dates/times

Serving an ace to Ōmokoroa’s rats

What do tennis and Pest Free Ōmokoroa have in common?

Pest Free Ōmokoroa (PFO) was established in 2005 to deal with rats and mice on the Ōmokoroa Peninsula after birdsong had become noticeably quiet Jose Law, a founding member, retired last year, and Jacquie Ashton has stepped into the role as lead coordinator

Over the years PFO has worked with the local Regional and District Councils and resident volunteers to set up T-bar bait stations on the peninsula The regional council funds the purchase of bait blocks for use in the bait stations Each bait station has a PVC T-shaped pipe and metal skewer topped by half a tennis ball, and this serves as a ‘rooftop’ to keep the bait dry. There are around 300 bait stations operating on the peninsula

Since taking the helm of PFO, Jacquie and her team have been recording the GPS location of bait stations via a Regional Council app Many of the tennis ball rooftops are now in a very sad state, having deteriorated with being out in the elements Here is where the tennis club stepped in

For years, the Ōmokoroa tennis club has been donating its no-longer-quite-

bouncy-enough balls to The Centre and the SPCA, to be joyfully received by many playful dogs

When Jacquie approached them about donating balls to become bait station roofs, the club was thrilled “We are delighted to find an additional use for our retired balls,” says tennis club committee member Sharon Parker “At the end of their life, unfortunately, spent tennis balls end up in the landfill So, to extend their life while maximizing an environmental benefit is a win-win situation ”

If you would like to become a volunteer with PFO, please contact Jacquie on 022 020 2647 Article supplied

Ōmokoroa History Group talk

By Fran Ashley

From 2 to 4pm on 18th August, the Ōmokoroa History Group invites you to come to The Old Library (TOLO) on McDonnell Street to hear the intriguing story of the Boy Roel

This 60ft North Sea-designed fishing trawler was offered in 1973 by Ōmokoroa residents Anne and Wim Van Leeuwen to be part of the protest against the French nuclear testing in Mururoa This trip is documented in Barry Mitcalfe’s book “Voyage to Nowhere”, which gives his personal experience as a crew member on that voyage

Anne will be at the event, and we hope Peter Yates will also be there Peter crewed on the Boy Roel when Wim first brought it from Malaysia to New Zealand in 1971

There is already a visual display at TOLO as part of the early history of Anne and Wim’s grass-roofed house, but we will give an extra PowerPoint presentation on the Boy Roel on the big screen Colin Pettigrew was the Principal of the Ōmokoroa Point School at the time and will tell of the school children’s part in the farewell from Ōmokoroa wharf Barry himself subsequently became a teacher

at the Point School, so was also

L-R: Sharon Parker of the Ōmokoroa Community Tennis Club and Jacquie Ashton of Pest Free Ōmokoroa with T-bar bait stations and a basket of new T-bar roofs

Barry Mitcalfe s book about Boy Roel PHOTO: Supplied

Years of being out in the elements has taken its toll on the original tennis ball roofs PHOTOS: Supplied

FHume’s inaugural fun run

or its 40 years anniversary, Hume Pack-N-Cool marked the milestone on Saturday 6th July with a free community fun run/walk

The diverse range of participants showed that age is no barrier to joining in, with our youngest being under 1 and the oldest at 92

Costumes ranged from a shark man, sumo man, cookie monsters and overall a sea of blue taking to the paths of Katikati to participate in the Hume Fun Run, to celebrate 40 years of being in business

This was a concept put forward by staff as a way of sharing this milestone with the community It brought the locals to the streets of Katikati, past the Dave Hume pool, through a kiwifruit orchard, and past Hume facili-

ties while being entertained by the very talented local singer 17-year-old Kirsty-Anne Stephens

There were more than 500 registrations across four events: 10km and 5km walk and run This was well beyond our expectations for a first year The true success for this event isn’t just measured by the number of participants or the distance covered, it’s a testament to the power of community spirit and collaboration

Dedicated volunteers included the U19 Katikati football team and local businesses who joined forces on the day Farmlands provided a much-needed sausage sizzle at the finish line to refuel participants Catherine Sharpe from Raine and Horne added oranges to go with the gold and green kiwifruit for all Knowing that everybody loves spot prizes, local businesses really got behind the event with plenty of wonderful prizes up for grabs following the run/walk

As a community we raised nearly $1,000 for the local Food Bank, going to much needed food parcels feeding 25 local families (80-100 people) per week Lots of food

items were donated on the day which will be a welcome addition to the weekly food parcels

Irene Hume founder of Hume Pack-N-Cool Ltd, at 98years-old, was out and about with her children Mark, Jim, Owen, Gavin, Shirley and Gail cheering on participants What a very special moment for her and the family When setting out they never could have imagined the impact

they would have had on the local community or that so many people would gather to share this historic celebration with them

Simon Bowker, Hume CEO, says, “As a company we are extremely proud of being in business for 40 years Being able to put on a free event to share this with the community was important to our staff Seeing everybody come together and hearing the positive feedback that is continuing to come in following the event shows just how big of an impact Hume Pack-N-Cool has had on the community We hope to have enough support to see this continue on in the future ”

We hope to make this an annual event, so watch this space for 2025 Photos: That Guy Photography

Article supplied

Genealogy 101

By Sandra Haigh Community Heritage Services Co-ordinator

If you ’ re curious about your roots but don’t know where to start, Genealogy 101 classes in Katikati and Ōmokoroa might be for you

Whether you have been gifted a box of family treasures or rescued old family photographs from the rubbish, those items may have sparked a little fire of curiosity in you Where do I come from?

If you ’ ve never done family research before, it can be daunting, and our Genealogy 101 classes might just help you make a start The classes are free, and you also get a starter pack to take away with you

These will take place in Katikati Li-

brary & Service Centre Archives Room, 21 Main Road, Katikati, on Thursdays 1st, 15th (just booked out at the time of going to print) and 29th August from 10am to 12 noon, and Ōmokoroa Library & Service Centre Whakamārama Room (downstairs), 28 Western Avenue, Ōmokoroa on Tuesdays 13th, 27th August and 10th September 10am to 12

noon

To register, email Community Heritage Services Co-ordinator sandra haigh@westernbay govt nz with your name and phone number and which location you’d like to attend

You’ll need to bring your tablet or laptop to the class because we will be accessing the online library editions of Ancestry com and FindMyPast com You only need to register for one class

Unveiling Mārama

Some time ago, copper skinks were found in the pathway of the Tauranga Northern Link roading project A plan was agreed upon to relocate these skinks to Te Puna Quarry Park where there was a safe, predator-reduced natural environment for them to re-establish as a group to ensure their ongoing survival Several skinks were relocated to the Park and are currently being monitored Further skinks are being added to this group as the project progresses

The Quarry Park has been developed over more than 25 years by volunteers, one of whom is Ata Ellery As our volunteers become older, we try to continue to support them where we can, and in the case of Ata, it has been with the odd load of firewood Mike McCarthy, a current active volunteer, was doing this when he and Ata got to talking about their shared interest in art, and Mike showed Ata photos of some of his work Nearly one year later, Ata was talking to her neighbour Shane Ladkin about his work on the TNL project Shane spoke about the excess materials going to the metal recyclers, which Ata realised could be used in the Quarry Park and, in particular, by Mike

Shane made contact with Mike, and they met to see what could be possible Shane gave Mike a tour of the TNL site and showed what resources were available, they discussed the potential of the materials at which time Shane talked about the skink relocation, and they agreed this would be an excellent pro-

ject Shane began the process of gaining authorisation and agreement from TNL management, with the help of Carmel Lapwood of TNL, that some of the metal going to recycling could be diverted for this project, and this authority was given Shane and the TNL team collected the materials and delivered them to the park for Mike

Mike formed the skink from the donated materials using manual bending techniques and welding

When completed, the sculpture was placed in the park awaiting her name

The placing of the skink was a group effort with input from everyone in the group as to where and how the sculpture was to be placed

Carmel Lapwood has an ongoing relationship with Te Puna’s Pirirākau hapū and the children of Te Puna school The children of the School’s immersion class - Mātauranga - were asked to gift a name for the sculpture which they did, gathering references from historical and current local names and events

The children, their whānau, kaumātua, members of the TNL Project and Quarry Park Volunteers celebrated the unveiling of a plaque supplied by TNL to officially gift the name Mārama to the sculpture

The unveiling on 8th July was celebrated by a fantastic waiata performed by the Te Puna school group

The creation of this sculpture was made possible by many serendipitous moments where things happened as almost willing it to happen

Mārama the lizard sculpture commissioned by the park and created by artist Mike McCarthy

ICan you crochet?

By Liz Farrell

n 2023, Ōmokoroa Crochet group created four fibre-art Christmas trees, which brightened up the Settlers’ Hall, the library, The Old Library Ōmokoroa and the Boat Club over the festive season

Once the holiday had passed, the trees were deconstructed, and the granny squares used were turned into nearly 60 blankets, which were distributed to those in need

This year, a new plan is underway to decorate the trees a little differently

We are reaching out to the community, asking if anyone would like to help create crochet items to adorn the trees We are looking for Christmas decorations,

Ōmokoroa Probus Club

With our club’s birthday coming up in August, we cast our minds back to our year ’ s events

Earlier this year, we were fortunate to receive a community board grant This enabled us to arrange for a sign to be erected outside the hall and help with other advertising, e g a monthly notice in the Lizard News

Our monthly meetings are well attended, and members often bring visitors along to listen to our many interesting and varied speakers Some topics included Godwit emigration George gave us his thoughts on ‘PC’ We saw Colin’s film on ‘The Battle of Pyes Pā’ and heard some Anzac memories

Cheryl showed us some of her creations for Wearable Arts, her work of art of ‘The Soldier’ was very impressive

Thanks to Sally we are now familiar with how to use a defibrillator and recently Lindsay recounted some of his harrowing memories of the nuclear experiments at Christmas Island whilst in the Navy

The Probus slogan is the 3Fs, funfriendship-fellowship, which we carry out in full

So if you are free on the fourth Thursday of the month at 9 30am, do come along you will be very welcome This month is our birthday party We invite you to come and have some fun Article supplied

2D or 3D, no wider than 10cm, or realsized flowers with just 1-5 of any one type

We are once again very grateful for the support of the Creative Communities Scheme and Ōmokoroa Centre Trust for helping support this public art

We’re excited to bring this new idea

to the community

New members are welcome every Saturday from 9 15am (ish) to 11 15am (ish) in the Whakamārama Room below Ōmokoroa Library Morning tea is provided

Find us on Facebook: Ōmokoroa Crochet & Crafters

Scott says

By Hon Scott Simpson MP For Coromandel

If there’s one thing I know as a local MP, it’s that the people of the Western Bay are passionate about improving the region, particularly when it comes to roading This is only natural, as people don’t spend all their time in the Ōmokoroa or Katikati townships; work, school, and day-to-day life means local residents make multiple road trips across the region and to Tauranga with ever-increasing frequency

I’m delighted that Transport Minister Simeon Brown has confirmed that Stage 2 of the Tākitimu North Link project has been designated as a Road of National Significance This is a huge investment in our region and will make it easier for people to get where they need to go, as well as drive economic growth

The Tākitimu North Link Stage 1 is already underway, and Stage 2 has started the procurement process, which will enable construction to begin in the next three years This stretch of road has been

a bottleneck for years It’s a relief to see this project receive funding, to know that it’s going ahead and that some of the roading issues facing the Western Bay will be resolved

In other news, the coalition Government also announced a $604 million funding boost to Pharmac, which will ensure more Kiwis are able to access lifechanging medicines

The funding boost is set to cover up to 26 cancer treatments and 28 other treatments An estimated 175,000 people will benefit in the first year alone It is an unprecedented investment into the health of New Zealanders and the impact will be felt now and into the future

I’m pleased to be a part of a government which has prioritised access to these life-changing medicines Boosting the funding to Pharmac will be a relief to many New Zealanders, and it’s a huge step forward for cancer treatment in this country Some of the newly funded cancer treatments will be available from October/November, with more phased in over the next year

Monthly meeting: Thursday 22nd August

Time: 9.30am to 11.30am Where: Omokoroa Settlers Hall

Ōmokoroa Crochet group is looking for donations of real-sized flowers PHOTO: Liz Farrell

Bay House Washing

By Mike Ravenswood

Originally hailing from Wellington, my family and I have embraced the stunning Ōmokoroa and Whakamārama area as our home for the past 12 years, with eight of those spent in Whakamārama on our picturesque three-acre property overlooking the Ōmokoroa peninsula

Our children have had the privilege of attending Ōmokoroa No 1 School, and one went to Whakamārama District Kindergarten They continued their educational journey at Tauranga Boys’ College and Tauranga Girls’ College

This region s serene climate, laidback lifestyle breathtaking bush walks and charming harbour have truly cap-

tured our hearts I have been happily married for 25 years and am blessed with four children, two dogs, and two cats as part of our loving family

On the professional front, my most recent endeavour is Bay House Washing, a business I launched last year

Before this, I led three successful ventures spanning 27 years all focused on property maintenance These enterprises involved a range of tasks such as painting, waterproofing, minor construction industrial abseiling and building washing, overseeing teams of up to twenty individuals My experience has provided me with a deep

understanding of building exteriors and what it takes to keep them wellmaintained Occasionally I also carry out Sika Icure works focusing on waterproofing on Fiji’s Denarau island

Here is a glimpse of the core housewashing services typically offered by Bay House Washing:

Exterior house washing: thorough cleansing of exterior walls windows and surfaces to remove dirt, grime, mould and other build-ups

Roof cleaning: elimination of moss, algae and debris from roofs to uphold their appearance and lifespan

Gutter cleaning: removal of debris and blockages from gutters to ensure proper drainage and prevent water damage

Driveway and pathway cleaning: pressure washing to eliminate stains, dirt, and grime from concrete or paved surfaces

Deck and patio cleaning and staining: we restore wooden and composite decks and patios to enhance their aesthetics and durability

Spider control: application of reliable treatments to eradicate spiders from outdoor areas

We currently offer a comprehensive exterior house washing package: Say farewell to dirt, mould, and grime as we meticulously clean your home s exterior surfaces, including walls and windows Avail this comprehensive service for $500+GST and enjoy a bonus offer of free spider control treatment to safeguard your home against unwanted intrusions

By Tanya van Heerden

The Ōmokoroa Foodbank runs from the Ōmokoroa Community Church at 139 Hamurana Road Over the past few years, we have seen a significant increase in the distribution of food parcels Sadly, there is a very big demand within our community for assistance with food parcels, but we feel very blessed that we are in a position to help those in need In 2023 we gave out a record number of 445 parcels, almost double 2022, which was, in itself, a record year

The bulk of the foodbank nonperishable items is collected from our Annual Food drive organized by Rick Peers of Cyberlink and the Ōmokoroa Fire Brigade The Lions club also assist with the sorting of the items once they are dropped off

Boat Club winners

The Ōmokoroa Boat Club annual general meeting and prizegiving was held on Sunday 30th July, with a substantial number of committee member changes - followed by awards being presented for a range of sailing, fishing and sporting categories Congratulations to all the winners

PHOTO: Matthew Farrell

Ōmokoroa Foodbank

at the Church This is a vital annual event, and we are so grateful to all those who assist and donate toward the food drive, as without it, we would not be able to run the foodbank throughout the year

Freshchoice Supermarket has a food donation bin at the entrance of the store where people can donate nonperishable items Thank you to Steve and staff for your ongoing support

Ōmokoroa Point School arranges an annual collection at the school A big thanks to the teachers, parents and pupils for their generous donations and support

The Ōmokoroa Foodbank is also supported by Good Neighbour Our volunteers go into town every Wednesday and collect a carload of food products which are brought back to the church We al-

ways have heaps of bread, salad greens, fruit, veggies and sometimes real treats such as milk, eggs, boxes of pies etc

These are sorted out and put on tables outside for everyone to help themselves from 2 30pm By 2 40pm, most of the produce will be gone The families who receive the weekly produce are so grateful and appreciative

Over the last few months, we have also been blessed with the generous donations from various shops in the new Ōmokoroa Village These include Artisan Bakery, The Coffee Club, Village Fresh and Lolo Turkish These donations enable us to provide bread and buns on a daily basis as well as fruit and vegetables and even readymade meals for the freezer It is wonderful to receive this support from our Ōmokoroa business

owners Thank you all so much

A special message of thanks to Christine Grainger and her team who make up the parcels each week, and to the volunteers who fill in when Christine is away

A big thank you to Sharon Mitford Burgess who creates the most delicious and amazing meals for the freezer which we give out to the sick and needy and to all our volunteers who give up their time to make the foodbank function so well and efficiently

And finally, thank you to the members of the community who donate in some form-whether it be food items, cash donations, dropping off bulk fruit items or even giving up your time to assist in some way

May you all be blessed as you bless others

• We are investors ourselves •

• Zero Arrears Tolerance Policy

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• We manage properties from Papamoa to Katikati

• Experienced in Property Management since 2003

“to put it simply, we walk the talk!”

Matariki inspires dream of kūmara collective for Te Puna kaiako

By Joelle Martin

Last year under the Matariki stars, Te Puna kaiako, Megan Burgess enjoyed the nourishment of a good hāngi with kindergarten whānau And like most good things, it sprouted a great idea

“Why don’t we learn to grow our own kūmara?” Megan questioned among her Te Puna team

The first kūmara came to the shores of Aotearoa on a waka from Hawaiki, a significant food staple for the early navigators as their communities grew Today, food like our beloved kūmara still has the power to bring people together, drawing with it the spirit of manaakitanga And in today’s economic climate, access to costeffective nutrition has become even more relevant

Megan’s idea bubbled and brewed until the vision enlarged beyond simply growing enough kūmara to feed the kindergarten whānau Instead, her dream took shape as a vision for a māra kai collective within the community, including kinder-

Bgarten whānau, tamariki, iwi, and Te Puna’s Hauora Hub as a start Momentum grew when the kaiako were invited by Chrissy (Ngā Pōtiki) at Tākitimu North to join the Parahia Kūmara workshop led by Kuia ‘Auntie’ Held at Ngāpeke Permaculture in Welcome Bay, they learnt about preparing a garden bed to propagate kūmara tipu | shoots, as well as some of the tikanga | protocol of kūmara

A vacant Waka Kotahi field nearby had been offered to Te Puna Kindergarten for use on a short-term basis And so, with the help of Chrissy, our Te Puna kaiako and tamariki created their own parahia kūmara | kūmara propagation and māra kai | food garden on the land previously owned by Farmer Burr Our late friend and life member of the kindergarten was also known to grow kūmara and potatoes for Te Puna bellies

The parahia kūmara involved layering sand, mulch, and compost donated by kindergarten friends Next, kūmara,

kindly donated by Cameron Road Pak’nSave, was pressed into the soil and sprayed with water, and a sheet of plastic was placed over the top for a ‘greenhouse’ effect Once sprouted, the tipu were pulled and planted in ‘ u ’ formations in September in accordance with the maramataka | Māori lunar calendar

Te Puna’s tamariki proudly took part in planting the tipu, patiently watching them grow into fat, sweet kūmara The harvest was on 23rd March and saw kindergarten whānau come together for the mahi | work, with a special karakia | prayer

spoken as part of the tikanga

The bounty was shared with Te Puna’s Paparoa Marae through the Hauora Hub, who were impressed with the quality and quantity of the kūmara grown and are excited about future collaborations

And soon, like the path of the moon, the project will come full circle Back to Te Puna Kindergarten’s Matariki event (18th June), where Megan, Head Teacher Ellen, kaiako, kaimahi, and kindergarten whānau will once again come together - this time to eat their very own lovingly grown kūmara Article and photo: Supplied

Groundwater drilling in Ōmokoroa

ay of Plenty Regional Council has a groundwater bore at 336 Ōmokoroa Road (The Settlers’ Hall), which is where it regularly monitors the groundwater levels and water quality for the Ōmokoroa area This is part of its regular environmental monitoring programme

The current bore has some holes in the casing (the steel tubes that create the

walls of the borehole) Therefore, Regional Council is going to seal off the bore below the holes and repurpose it, so it can still be used for monitoring the shallower aquifer (groundwater layer)

A new bore hole will be drilled into a deeper aquifer so that when the work is done there will be bores monitoring two different layers of groundwater aquifers

This work will take approximately two months (from mid-July through to the start of October 2024)

If you live nearby, you may experience noise during the hours of 7am to 6pm on weekdays It may sound like construction noise There may also be some light vibrations, like that of a train passing by Regional Council will ensure all noise

and vibrations comply with regulations We apologise for any inconvenience and will work as quickly as we can to complete this work

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact scienceadmin@boprc govt nz or call 0800 884 880 (contact is Rochelle Gardner, Environmental Scientist) Article supplied

Ōmokoroa endangered bird habitat signs

By Shenagh Gleeson

pgraded signs aimed at increasing the protection of endangered birds in Ōmokoroa have been installed at three sites

Department of Conservation bird information signs stressing the need for dogs

to be on leads have been installed at Peach Beach and the lagoon area at the western end of the Ōmokoroa Golf Course; Cooney Reserve Beach dog exclusion zone; and Tinopai sandbar bridge on the Lynley Park cycle/walkway

The dog-on-lead signs were produced

Oby GT signs and funded by the Ōmokoroa Lions Club, which also funded a dotterel nesting-site seasonal removable fence A Pest Free Ōmokoroa team organised the replacement signs under the supervision of Western Bay of Plenty District Council Volunteer Coordinator, Kate LomanSmith

Bird champion Christina Cleaver says there are many endangered birds in Ōmokoroa, including the Northern New Zealand dotterel, Caspian tern, variable oystercatcher, banded rail, fernbird, banded dotterel, wrybill, godwit/kuaka and royal spoonbill

Some of the birds are migratory and come and go at different times of the year while others are present all year round making the need to keep dogs on leads in the designated areas an every-day requirement

“The birds nesting, raising their families, feeding and resting within these areas are threatened with extinction Help save these birds by remaining outside their habitat,” Christina says

The public can view all of the birds with binoculars or zoom cameras from viewing platforms

Ōmokoroa Community Board

By Peter Presland Chair

n behalf of the Community Board, I congratulate Chris Dever on his success in our by-election

I also want to acknowledge Murray Marshall and Steve Ling for standing, hope both consider standing again in the next election proper

Watching on from the sidelines, I was surprised at the low voter turnout, but then I note it was higher than the Maketū Councillor by-election The Tauranga turnout was dismal, given the apparent clamouring for a ‘return to democracy’ What does this all mean? How can we

cultivate meaningful engagement?

A quick riddle for you Three frogs are sitting on a log midstream, one decides to jump off How many are left? Answer at the end

Cultivating engagement through empowering local voices creates a stronger community where we truly feel part of a village In simple terms, we need to get off our collective backside, stop whinging about stuff we think needs doing by anyone else, and get activated and take steps to create the change we want to see and make it happen That’s our challenge

The genie is already well out of the bottle so far as housing development goes I

still have misgivings (albeit acknowledging I am no engineer, rather someone elected to have an opinion) on some of the housing developments When the next one-in-100-year storm hits (more like 1:3), I worry about where the run-off from massive areas of steel and concrete will go, we don’t need to look far to see the consequences where rainfalls inundate residential areas not equipped to handle such volumes

Those misgivings aside, we need to look at, for example, planting policies for our peninsula The right plant in the right place, both on the foreshore and in the housing developments, including road

frontages, sounds easier than it apparently is And in the process, we need to continue to protect our green spaces We only get one shot at such things

We also need to get cracking with a centre for our youth, have our own repurposing/recycling centre, also support our local businesses wherever we are able, as they all support us and our endeavours

That’s a starter for ten Keen to hear yours.

Oh and how many frogs are left on the log? 3 (or 2), if the frog ‘decided’ to jump off the log, he might never have actually jumped

The team behind the new signage PHOTOS: Evey Hoddinott

NZ Northern Dotterel mother and chick

Robin Hood hits a bullseye at Matahui School

Matahui School hit a bullseye last term with a successful performance of Robin Hood and the Sherwood Hoodies

Principal Mary Woods says it was “wonderful to see so many of the school’s alumni and families attend ”

“Putting on a school production is no small feat Planning begins during the January school holidays, followed by auditions, make-up sessions, costume fittings, dress rehearsals, and practices

Our students worked incredibly hard, learning lines, perfecting their timing, and managing props ”

Matahui is a Multiple Intelligences (MI) school with an ethos underpinned by the theory of Howard Gardner. The school embraces all eight MI, encouraging students to develop their strengths

while providing support in areas where they may need it

This term focused on drama, music, and the arts Exposure to the arts extends those who have musical, verbal and linguistic strengths and helps build body-kinesthetics, interpersonal and communication skills It fosters creativity, improves students’ self-esteem, and introduces them to topics like history and technology, such as lights and cameras

As part of this enquiry, the students visited The Historic Village in Tauranga to watch a screening of the Disney animated movie Robin Hood They also made bows and arrows and practised archery as part of their forest school learning, reinforcing these concepts in a fun and engaging way

Dog registrations are due

Dog registration fees are now due in the Western Bay, with the colour of tags switching over from yellow to blue for the 2024/25 year

Dog owners can register their kuri either online, or in person, at Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s Barkes Corner office or at one of its Library and Service Centres

And for the first time, old dog tags can be recycled – just drop them into one of the service centres and Council will send them to a company in Auckland where they will be repurposed into new products.

All dogs are required to be registered

before they are three months of age, and each dog must be registered at the address where they spend most of their time

If you are a new dog owner, or haven’t registered with Western Bay before, you can create an account online Further information on fees and how they apply to different dogs (de-sexed, unneutered, dangerous, working and assistance dogs etc ) is available on www westernbay govt nz

For any queries, please contact Council’s customer services team on 0800 926 732 or email info@westernbay govt nz Article supplied

“Before the matinee show, there were a lot of nerves But afterwards, the students were buzzing, having enjoyed their experience of performing on stage and seeing the audience’s reaction, which included a lot of laughs ”

“We are hugely proud of what the students have achieved They worked so hard, and it showed.”

Woods says the school’s dedicated staff were amazing at mentoring, modelling, and supporting tamariki with their performances

“They created the stunning backdrop, managed the lighting and choreography, and did a fantastic job of keeping the students calm in the holding room and library in between scenes Also, a big thank you to our wonderful parents, who supported us with props, make-up and face paint, costumes, and photos, and to

Industries who provided the lights

Thank you to everyone who came along and supported our students ”

“We are especially grateful to Seeka, who sponsored our production this year

As a company committed to growing futures, fostering talent, and encouraging inquisitive minds, its ethos aligns well with our own. Their support has meant that most of the funds raised from ticket sales will go towards a much-needed resource for the school ”

Article supplied

Triac

Friar Tuck Robin Hood and Alan

The Skunk Scouts PHOTOS: Supplied

Katikati Art Group

By Jan Goldie

Artist profile: Val Helm

When did you start painting?

I started painting about 1996 As a youngster, I had always loved drawing, so painting was a natural progression to doing something I loved

What subject do you like painting in, and what medium?

My subjects are many and varied, but my favourites are birds I have tried all different mediums, but I prefer oils

What or who inspires you?

I am inspired by the beautiful New Zealand landscape and the numerous birds that come to be fed each day

What is your greatest achievement in art?

The local Hall Committee gave me the job of painting a mural, which is hanging at the new entrance to the Memorial Hall

Katikati Gallery is at the Katikati War Memorial Hall, Main Road, Katikati

Opening hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, 10am to 3pm For more information, contact Val 027 494 6689 or Rachel 027 230 7599

Neighbourhood Support volunteer street coordinators needed

By Michelle Casey

Neighbourhood

Support is about creating safe, resilient, and connected communities It is free and has a wide range of benefits As a street coordinator, you will have opportunities to connect with those around you You will receive emails with what’s happening within your community, get tips to improve the safety of your home and your community, learn how to get prepared for emergencies and be invited to attend community events organised by Neighbourhood Support

Being involved in Neighbourhood Support comes in many forms You might stay connected online or by email, attend street meetups, host or join street barbeques, participate in kai swaps or seed swaps, join street beautification projects and more

By staying connected and supporting each other, we can make our neighbourhoods safer and welcoming for all We work alongside Ōmokoroa Community Policing Group Charitable Trust, NZ Police, Ōmokoroa Community Patrol, Graffiti Busters, Ōmokoroa Emergency Response, and other partners to equip neighbourhoods to improve safety, be prepared for emergencies, and support one another so that our communities are great places to live.

We need more volunteers to become street coordinators for Ōmokoroa streets The role of the street coordinator

is to maintain the street contact list of names, phone numbers and emails so that they can contact them should a need arise i e arranging a street BBQ, an emergency response, a missing person, lost pets, or alerting neighbours if there has been a burglary, etc You get to decide what works best for you so your street list only needs updating when somebody moves or changes their details Changes are then sent to the ONS administrator who is responsible for keeping ONS information up to date; your information is not stored or shared anywhere else

A big shout out and thank you to our existing Ōmokoroa NS Street coordinators who have kept us updated with changes in your streets If you have moved into the area and have not been contacted by a street coordinator and wish to join your Ōmokoroa NS street group please send your names, phone numbers and street address to nsomokoroa@gmail com who will then add you to your street list and can let you know who that street coordinator is, if there is one

Please note for streets that are long we have a few street coordinators so you only have anything from 6 to 20 houses to cover

If you would like to volunteer to become an Ōmokoroa NS street coordinator please send your name, address and phone number to nsomokoroa@gmail com or phone Michelle on 027 823 3400

A showcase of Val s work PHOTO: Val Helm

Footpath closed during pond clean-up

The Highfield stormwater pond in Katikati is being dredged and deepened to improve its ability to hold and treat water before it is released into the Uretara Stream

Located off Uretara Drive, a section of walkway around the pond is temporarily closed while this maintenance work is

as an ecological and environmental barrier

Stormwater runoff from urban areas can contain pollutants like oil, chemicals and debris, which settles at the bottom of the pond, leaving clean water to flow into the stream

carried out, with a detour in place for people who wish to walk a full loop of the area

The pond holds stormwater before it is released into the Uretara Stream, serving

The buildup of sediment and silt over time means the pond now needs to be cleaned out and deepened to continue functioning efficiently

The pond will be restored to its original depth for two-thirds of the area, while the remaining one-third will be deepened by an additional 0 5m A bund will also be installed which will improve water quality and make future maintenance easier Additionally, the area around the pond will be planted to beautify the surroundings

Consented by both Western Bay of Plenty District and Bay of Plenty Regional Councils, the work follows two years of groundwater monitoring, which identified it as the most efficient and cost-effective solution

The work is expected to be completed by early October Article supplied

Bank scam

Katikati Police say a significant amount of money has been taken from an elderly couple’s bank account after a scam phone call was received, with a computergenerated voice advising them that their BNZ credit card had been compromised

A follow-up call from a scammer pretending to be from ANZ asked the local couple to download an application called PAYDE Once this was done, the

scammers had full control of the couple’s accounts, and thousands of dollars were removed from the account

Police advise anyone who receives a cold call from someone claiming to be from their bank not to act on any of their instructions Instead, call the genuine bank’s number from your bank card and query the validity of the call Banks will never ask you to download apps over the phone This is a sure sign of a scam

Waihī Beach School

couldn’t ‘bee’ more excited

Aspiral herb garden has been a welcome addition to Waihī Beach School’s māra kai | food garden

The school was left buzzing after being selected for Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s Win a Working Bee competition

The ‘Western Bay Worker Bees’ spent half a day at the school helping to complete a new wind breaker fence, dismantling an old shed, relocating worm farms, creating a spiral herb garden, and weeding mulching and planting in their māra kai

Council staff donated their time as part of National Volunteer Week, with the competition winner chosen by SociaLink’s Volunteering Services Team

“The keen team of volunteers from Western Bay of Plenty District Council transformed our māra kai Ngā mihi koutou, thank you we appreciate you, ” says Waihī Beach School principal

Rachael Coll

“The mahi that was achieved in a short time was incredible It was sustainable and future focused, enabling our kaimahi | staff to now focus on working with our tamariki in the māra kai ”

During the week Council also organised five morning teas around the District to thank all the volunteers who contribute their time in the Western Bay Volunteers make an important contribution to the District and the ‘worker bees’ enjoyed the opportunity to get amongst it, says Council’s Community Outcomes Advisor Liesel Carnie

“A massive thanks to Waihī Beach School for hosting us for our working bee We loved being able to get outside and contribute back to our community for a cause that is going to benefit so many and teach our children about the natural world and healthy kai,” says Liesel

Ayen Chen

d

How many words of three or more letters, including plurals, can you make, using each letter

25 Excellent 30

Decorate a donut

Artisan Bakery in Ōmokoroa had a really good turnout and so much fun doing our first ‘decorate your own donut’ event Even the adults were joining in Keep an eye out on our socials for any upcoming events Thanks ever yone Chelsea

MenzShed

expands into metal work

T•

By Peter Smith

he Ōmokoroa Menzshed has opened its new engineering shop The shop has been established in one of the three containers, obtained with a grant from TECT and a private donation, which also enabled a covered outdoor work area and storage

Equipping the shop with tools has been helped by a grant from The Centre at Ōmokoroa, with all the electrical installations being completed by a qualified member The Menzshed now has a comprehensive wood, general and metal work shop which allows it to do more in the community, and which would not have been possible without these grants

The first job which is being worked on is a new road trailer for the Shed Richard Wilde who overseas the engineering shop says members are starting to put up their hands to learn new metal working skills, and one member has already become proficient at tig welding

The Shed is open every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday morning from 9am and men who would like to learn new skills are welcome to call in and have a look

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PLUMBER

1 Invitation for Expressions of Interest – Lease of 132m² Building Ōmokoroa Sports Ground, Western Avenue

2 Submissions sought - Intent to Grant Lease For Expression of Interest packs or further nformat on please contact Joanne Hin on 07 571 8008 or email reserves@westernbay govt nz

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Then phone Carolyn at Omokoroa Garden Care on 021 036 9145.

1 The Western Bay of Plenty Distr ct Council s calling for expressions of interest from interested sport ng/recreat on groups with regards to the use of the old (refurbished) pavilion building on Ōmokoroa Sports Ground Western Avenue A questionna re is required to be completed by each nterested group to enable a fair assessment of each group s applicat on for use of the building The closing date for the return of these quest onnaires is 5pm Friday

made

2 Pursuant to section 54 (1)(b) of the Reserves Act 1977 the Western Bay of Plenty District Council proposes to grant a lease of a 132m² building to a recreation based organisation situated on Ōmokoroa Sports Ground for a term of up to 10 years The proposed

Public notice of an application for CLUB LICENCE

Section 101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012

OMOKOROA GOLF CLUB INCORPORATED has made application to the District Licensing Committee at Western Bay of Plenty for the renewal of a CLUB LICENCE in respect of the premises situated at 72 LINKS VIEW DRIVE and known as OMOKOROA GOLF CLUB

The general nature of the business to be conducted under the licence is a CLUB LICENCE - CLASS 2

The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is currently being sold under the licence are:

MONDAY TO SUNDAY 10 00am to 11 00pm NEW YEARS EVE 10 00am to 01 00am

The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the Western Bay of Plenty District Licensing Committee at Barkes Corner, Greerton, Tauranga

Any person who is entitled to object and who wishes to object to the grant of the application may, not later than 25 working days after the date of the first publication of the application in a newspaper or newspapers in accordance with the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee at the Western Bay of Plenty District Council Private Bag 12803 Tauranga

No objection to the renewal of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 This is the only publication of this notice

Jane Fowler

The new MenzShed workshop PHOTO: Supplied