Lizard News December 2021 by Lizard News

Lizard News DECEMBER 2021

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

Matarua can give up to 40 people a trip around the harbour. INSET: Waipapa can take up to 20 passengers. PHOTOS: Supplied.

Water taxi to put Mount within touching distance

By Matthew and Liz Farrell he sheltered harbour that makes Ōmokoroa one of the jewels in the Bay of Plenty’s crown is about to be showcased by a local water taxi operator. There have been years of talk of trying to stimulate interest in the alternative form of transport, but the Regional Council hasn’t yet jumped on board with a subsidy. Increasing population and traffic, bumped up every summer by out of town visitors, have finally led Rachel Proctor to take the plunge and begin offering trips to the Mount and one-hour scenic cruises around the Point with

BYO picnics and drinks. “Talks with the Regional Council are underway again. Every year the roads get worse and we can’t go further afield with Covid, so how about a nice day out on the water? While it isn’t a cheap option it is also not expensive when compared to, say, a trip to the luge in Rotorua,” says Rachel. Glen and Polly Proctor have run the Matakana barge for the past 22 years. “Not everyone in Ōmokoroa has a boat or can get out on the water, so it’s an opportunity to do something different and take advantage of one of the unique features of peninsula living, which is immediate harbour access,” Rachel says.

Starting on Sunday 12th December, the taxi will depart Ōmokoroa at 10am and 2.30pm, and depart Pilot Bay at 11am and 3pm. This gives passengers three hours in Ōmokoroa or four and a half hours at Mauao. The vessel used will be subject to demand. Either Waipapa, which can take up to 20 passengers, or Matarua which can take up to 40. If the service is viable and supported this could then be extended to include Saturdays. Both vessels are also available for private hire whether you want to take a group to a deserted spot for a special occasion - to pop the question or to get married - or take a tour of the harbour.

“With options to hop off and go for a swim or enjoy a beer on the beach, we can provide a tailored outing. We offer Māori history harbour tours to learn more about Tauranga Moana, or simply relax with your group on the way to a concert or event in Ōtūmoetai, Tauranga or Mount Maunganui. “Why not book a DJ and host a party on the water for your birthday, Christmas or work function? The options are endless,” says Rachel. For more information or to book, contact 027 235 3110, visit www.taurangawatertransport.co.nz or search Facebook or Instagram for @TaurangaWaterTransport

Wishing the community a

Merry Christmas and all the best for a happy, safe and prosperous 2022 From Matthew & Liz Farrell, and the Lizard News production and delivery team

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Editor: If you are, or know of an interested family, perhaps building a new home or moving into a first home, please contact Cathy on 07 578 6664 or 021 654 372. Lizard News is also putting Cathy in touch with Neighbourhood Support and the Ōmokoroa Community Garden.

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The Mighty Wurli

Water rort On Thursday 4th November, a news article stated Mayor Webber as claiming Council water supply to its residents and ratepayers is in a good state. That is really good news to read, as it had been suggested to Council don’t fix what isn’t broken. As regards to other councils throughout NZ, most have satisfactory water supply and infrastructure and those who haven’t are getting their act together, so why the big rort by the current Government? All the water infrastructure has been paid for over the years, through the rating system and is currently owned by the ratepayer. Any council that has water problems can and will borrow capital to address the situation accordingly. Those who have had brain fade and created this monstrosity should give their heads a shake. Fancy four entities for the whole of NZ? Twelve people per entity, each entity will have at least six iwi members and six whoever else; none elected, all appointed. On 18th November Mayor Webber was announced as joining the Three Waters working group. Mr Webber, you deceive your ratepayers yet again. C’mon people. Water belongs to nobody and is the source of life. Final analysis: privatising New Zealand’s water will further increase costs for the same. Ewen Luskie, Katikati. Editor: Please see Mayor Webber’s letter to the Prime Minister, printed in full on Page 4.

Sustainable gardens I’m the community coordinator for Envirohub and one of the projects I look after is Sustainable Neighbourhood Project. We adopt a street or area and select 10 to 12 houses and go on a sustainability journey together. We start by planting a vege box, fruit and native trees and talk about the importance of food scaping and being resilient with food. We then undertake a workshop each month to highlight a particular issue. It could be a movie night, a clothing swap, a beeswax wrap workshop or something for the kids to build - like a bug hotel or bird feeder. We are funded partly by Western Bay District Council and we look for local businesses to support in other ways such as soil and seedlings. The project is completely free for residents to take part, we just need their enthusiasm for one or two hours per month for six months. We’ve undertaken two projects in Te Puke and two in Tauranga, but I would like to look at a new area - and perhaps target some first-time buyers or young families that have just got into their homes. We’d like to help to “green up” those gardens that are brand new. Results have shown with our other projects that neighbours get to know each other through the project, so it builds great communities too. Ōmokoroa is a boom growth area so hoping you might know of some likely residents. Cathy Donnelly, Envirohub.

A short note of comment re: your article published in the November issue of the Lizard about the International Youth Silent Film Festival. It was pleasing to see this event get recognition, but I was both surprised and disappointed that no mention was made of the Wurlitzer theatre organ at Baycourt. The fact that Baycourt has a fully operational Wurlitzer organ is the only reason that Tauranga is the venue for the New Zealand part of this competition. The scores that the films are set to are written to be performed on a Wurlitzer organ and at the Grand Finals in the USA will be played as a live accompaniment to the films. A mention of Baycourt’s operational Wurlitzer, currently the only operational Wurlitzer Organ in a public theatre in NZ, would have been helpful in supporting its continued use and upkeep, so we all may enjoy its rich full sound and wide range of effects and orchestral sound. Regards to you and the Lizard. Bruce Lannam.

Editor: The article was supplied by Baycourt and on this occasion, they neglected to mention the 1926 Wurlitzer in preference of providing more information about the nominations. I was aware of the Mighty Wurli. Hidden beneath Baycourt’s Addison Theatre stage, it is one of the finest Wurlitzer organs in the Southern Hemisphere. Baycourt manager Reena Snook says the Wurli is a tremendous asset for Tauranga and the International Youth Silent Film Festival is a wonderful opportunity to introduce the iconic theatre organ to a younger generation. Tauranga’s manager for arts and culture, James Wilson, agrees the remarkable instrument belongs to the Tauranga community too. “When it is fired up and in action, the Mighty Wurli fills the Addison Theatre with a truly unmistakable sound. This living, breathing and constantly evolving instrument is an amazing feat of engineering. “The Wurli is Baycourt’s pride and joy, and thanks to the support and hard work of the Tauranga Theatre Organ Society, it is kept in mint condition and ready to thrill a whole new generation of audiences,” says James. Wurlitzer organs are the largest type of musical instrument in the world. They consist of a console that dramatically rises from beneath the stage, connected to thousands of pipes; a piano keyboard, a xylophone, castanets, bells and drums. There are only three Wurlitzers in New Zealand, and Baycourt’s ‘Mighty Wurli’ is the only one in original condition.

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Mayor joins Three Waters reform working group estern Bay of Plenty Mayor Garry Webber has been appointed to the national working group tasked with resolving sticking points in Government’s Three Waters reform. Mayor Garry joins 19 other local government and iwi representatives making up the working group established by Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta. The working group’s role is to recommend strengthened governance and accountability arrangements for the Three Waters Reform Programme. The working group formation follows Minister Mahuta announcing in October that Government will make its Three Waters reform mandatory for all councils, rejecting the option to make it voluntary. The reform will see the management of drinking water, wastewater and stormwater transferred from 67 councils to four public-owned entities from 1st July 2024. Mayor Garry says he is pleased to be selected on the working group featuring a cross-section of big to small metropolitan, rural and provincial councils. “I look forward to working with the other local government and iwi representatives to provide critical and carefully considered recommendations to inform the final entity design. “At the end of the day, our goal is to find solutions that are in the best interests of councils right across Aotearoa, New Zealand.” Mayor Garry says it is important local councils such as Western Bay can shape the appropriate change, having voiced serious concerns with Government’s draft reform proposal. “As a Council, we tried to be constructive in our feedback, and so I think Government has taken note of this.” The Working Group will report back to the Government in March 2022, ensuring there is time for the advice and recommendations to inform the final entity design.

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Council committed to community despite Three Waters mandate estern Bay of Plenty District Council says it remains committed to providing well-maintained water infrastructure despite Government’s Three Waters reform mandate.    The Government has announced it will make its Three Waters reform mandatory for all councils, rejecting the option to make it voluntary for councils. The reform will see the management of drinking water, wastewater and stormwater transferred from 67 councils to four public-owned entities from 1st July 2024.   Western Bay Mayor Garry Webber says the decision to make participation compulsory is a disappointing blow given Council bought into this reform process because it was optional.   He says, unlike some councils, Western Bay has been a good steward of its infrastructure, investing in water networks and treatment plants and in turn providing a good service to its residents.  “Our infrastructure is in a good state and this reflects the major investments we have made in the past. Our assets are modern and well maintained and we are committed to ensuring this continues now and into the future.  “However we recognise that there are many councils in New Zealand who have not, and so we are now faced with the challenge of bringing everyone up to required standards by July 2024,” says Mayor Garry.   As part of the reform announcement, Government agreed to set up a working group of council and iwi representa-

We’d love to meet you

tives who will work on developing solutions to the very real sticking points around governance, representation, and accountability. The other critical issues for councils, including rural water schemes and integration with the planning system, will also be worked on with the sector.   “We like many councils in New Zealand are concerned about the governance arrangements, in particular the ability of local councils such as ourselves to get our voices heard,” says Mayor Garry.   “Based on past experiences, there is no guarantee that the best-laid plans will be funded centrally when there are bigger councils with bigger problems that need resolution.”  This announcement also generates significant questions, including about public consultation. As a central government initiative, it will now go through the usual process for government-led reform and legislation change.    However, Mayor Garry appreciates this won’t stop the community looking to Council for answers given the longstanding commitment to having a conversation on the reform, but only when the time was right.    “We can still do this, and will, by shifting the conversation to the outstanding issues that Government wants to resolve through the working groups. How we can influence these working groups will become clear once they are set up.   “Given it is a Government-led reform, we as a Council will be discussing very quickly our approach to getting the views

of our community in a format where we can present them wherever necessary to Government.”  The Department of Internal Affairs has indicated in their timeline that the three pieces of legislation to implement their

decision will have Select Committee processes and public submissions and hearings. This will be another avenue Council can use to express the community’s views and advocate for our interests. Article supplied.

Time for Three Waters feedback estern Bay of Plenty District Council says it’s keen to hear ideas on what ‘good’ would look like from a governance and accountability perspective when the Three Waters reform kicks in. From 1st July 2024, the Governmentmandated management of drinking water, wastewater and stormwater will be transferred from 67 councils to four publicowned entities. Council CEO John Holyoake says while Government’s decision may be a bitter pill to swallow for some, the focus must move to providing feedback on critical aspects we can help influence. Councils nationwide have raised a number of concerns about the proposed representation, governance and accountability arrangements for the new entities. To address these concerns, Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta has established a working group of council and iwi representatives tasked with recommending strengthened governance and accountability arrangements. “Whether or not you support Government’s decision, it is important that together we shift the conversation to the

issues the working group will be discussing and providing recommendations to Government on. “Throughout this reform process, we have remained committed to having a conversation on the reform. This hasn’t changed. “While the option to opt in or out is no longer available, we still want to offer the opportunity for the community to express their ideas on the governance structure and provide useful information to the working group.” To join the conversation and give your feedback, visit our Have Your Say website via www.westernbay.govt.nz. Here you will find all the relevant documents pertaining to the reform as well as the links to the three feedback opportunities: take the online survey, share your ideas and join one of two zoom sessions. Both zoom sessions will have Council staff and Councillors listening to your ideas. To register for one of the online sessions, follow the prompts on the site by Friday 3rd December. Feedback will be collated and sent to the Government’s working group for consideration. Article supplied.

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Ōmokoroa kiwifruit orchard dismantled to make way for future Town Centre

Glen Stewart of All Terrain Chipping with Ōmokoroa Town Centre project spokesperson Hayley Larman. PHOTOS: Matthew Farrell.

The Southern Orchards’ property at 404 Ōmokoroa Road is now being cleared to make way for a commercial town centre development.

igns of site preparation for the new Ōmokoroa Town Centre at 404 Ōmokoroa Road are appearing as owners JACE Group begin getting the area ready for future earthworks. Resource consent for the privately funded project was approved in March 2020 by an independent committee appointed by the Western Bay of Plenty District Council. The 5.3 hectare staged development will feature a supermarket, retail space, cafes, restaurants, a childcare centre, civic centre, offices and green spaces. “Subject to ongoing pandemic disruptions, preliminary earthworks are expected to get underway during 2022,”

erate the excitement and anticipation. “It wouldn’t be prudent of us to set expectations that ignore the threat of pandemic disruptions to timeframes, resources and planning in the foreseeable future,” she says. “With such high interest in the project, the team will endeavour to share new updates and information once it is certain that those expectations can be met. We hope that local residents will appreciate this honest approach.” Larman gives the example of how planning for the town centre is subject to working with adjoining landowners and developing projects who have also been held up by Covid restrictions. “There are a number of moving parts to

says OTC Project Spokesperson Hayley Larman. “In the meantime, we have commenced the process of site clearing.” The dismantling process is expected to take two months and includes the removal of vines, growing structures, shelterbelts, and irrigation systems. The site ceased operating as a kiwifruit orchard following harvest this year and additional consent to proceed with earthworks was secured. Having already experienced 18-months of planning impacted by Covid, Hayley Larman also wants to take the opportunity to confirm the project, affectionately being referred to as OTC is progressing. But the organisation would like to mod-

the OTC development with multiple partners across multiple facets who are all navigating similar hurdles,” says Larman. “With the likes of the Ōmokoroa Road upgrades and neighbouring schools interconnected to the centre development, we are carefully working through each stage as they progress.” Larman advises that a high level of interest in future tenancies has continued since the project was given the go-ahead. The core focus in 2022 can expect to be centred around earthworks. These steps will include land contouring, preparing foundations for future roading and trunk infrastructure such as water and power. Article supplied.

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Motel planned beside Reserve

Tralee Street developer ready for spadework

By Matthew Farrell

A graphic design concept of how The Village will look. IMAGE: Supplied.

he developers of The Village commercial project next to the FreshChoice supermarket in Ōmokoroa are preparing to begin the bulk of earthworks as early as January. Hamilton-based Foster Develop is anticipating site establishment this side of Christmas. Development manager Andrew Vincent says they’ve been working hard in the background and have had a very good run, with 65% of the precinct already leased. “We’ve pretty much confirmed all designs through to the detailed design phase, and submitted our earthworks consent. That’s now with Council. “We have a range of food and beverage operators, a gym, a shared office space hub, a hairdresser, lawyer, and a real estate agency,” he says. “With the remaining 35%, we’ll be

adding amenity and trying to be specific about the best fit of tenants. We are talking with a local doctor and healthcare sector providers and consultants in the area to work in the precinct.” Andrew Vincent says the layout and tenancy splits have been confirmed. “The architectural designs have moved from preliminary concept to finalising the development design with structural detail. We are at that stage now, it’s coming together well.” Tony Snow of Shared Workspaces runs office hubs in the Mount, Pāpāmoa and Hamilton and has signed a 10-year-lease on 800sqm of space. “Coworking suits small businesses and people who work from home a couple of days a week and don’t want to travel into the city. “We say ‘work close to home not from home’. I see Ōmokoroa growing. People think it’s a nice neighbourhood to live in and would also be nice to be

able to work there.” Tony Snow says he’s making a longterm commitment to creating a nicely curated facility to help the community thrive. “We see national players and government agencies within shared office, meeting and training spaces. With the pandemic, people look at flexible arrangements to reduce their overall real estate spend whether they are scaling up or down. “We are also social animals, and some people find there’s only so much time they can also be the CEO of laundry and dishes while working at home.” Foster Construction Group plans to build four commercial buildings over 12 months, to open Stage One for trading in the first quarter of 2023. Stage Two will be the residential component 12 months later, comprising 18 apartments and four townhouses separated from the town centre.

A VERY

Merry Christmas

Plans have been drawn up for a 26-unit two-storey motel on the boundary of Cooney Reserve in Ōmokoroa and residents are gearing up to fight against it. Property owners adjoining 11 Margaret Drive have been sent letters with architectural drawings including proposals to raise the ground level some metres. The residents say they’re united in their opposition due to noise, earthworks dust, commercial lighting, proximity to homes and a native bird sanctuary. Council tells Lizard News the property is zoned Residential under the District Plan. Any developer would need to apply for resource consent for a motel complex. “The resource consent is, at a minimum, a discretionary activity. There may be other matters or infringements. To date, no resource consent application has been received for consideration,” says a Council spokesperson. In such circumstances, neighbours may lawfully be approached to be asked to give written approval. Council says this is a matter for the neighbours to consider and they may engage legal or planning advisers if need be. Lizard News understands the residents are contacting DOC and Forest & Bird about the risk to the colony including endangered Dotterels.

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ÎĎ΄ƶĳƊĮ΄åŉŉ΄Ŝ ŜĦ΄ŜƞƂ΄ſåƊƖ͚΄ſƂĎƊĎœƖ΄åœĈ΄ĦƞƖƞƂĎ΄āŉĳĎœƖƊ΄å΄ĮåſſƼ͚΄ſƂŜƊſĎƂŜƞƊ͚΄åœĈ΄őŜƊƖ΄ŜĦ΄åŉŉ͚΄ƊåĦĎ ĦĎ΄ĮŜŉĳĈåƼ Ƽ΄ƊĎåƊŜœ͟ Through out alll of of this years ups and downs, we thank you for for choosing our expertise when it came to selling s or purchasing yourr most important importan asset. AƂŜő΄åŉŉ΄ŜĦ΄ƞƊ΄ĮĎƂĎ΄åƖ΄¯ƂĎőåĳœƊ΄ Ďåŉ΄*ƊƖåƖĎ΄_åƖĳņåƖĳ΄åœĈ΄tőŜņŜ ņŜƂŜå΄ͯ΄iĎƂƂƼ΄ ĮƂĳƊƖőåƊ΄π΄IåſſƼ΄kĎƶ ƶ΄ÔĎ ÔĎåƂ͜

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Women charged after child’s death By Matthew Farrell auranga Police have arrested two people in relation to the homicide of Te Puna youngster, Malachi Subecz. Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Rawlinson says emergency services were initially called to a residential property on Monday 1st November after the young boy was found with serious injuries. 5-year-old Malachi was first treated in Tauranga Hospital but was subsequently airlifted to Starship Children’s Hospital in Auckland, where he died on Malachi Subecz. PHOTO: Supplied. the morning of Friday 12th November. remanded in custody and denied name The death was treated as suspicious and suppression. a post mortem was carried out as Police Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Rawlmade enquiries to establish the circum- inson says the homicide investigation is stances around the tragic death. ongoing, and he is particularly interested 27-year-old Te Puna woman Michaela in hearing from anyone who is yet to Barriball has been charged with wilfully speak with Police and has interacted ill-treating a child, and 37-year-old Tau- with Malachi over the past two to three ranga woman Sharon Barriball has been months. charged with attempting to pervert the If you can help with the appeal for any course of justice. information, please contact 105 and Both women appeared briefly in Tau- quote file number 211001/6453. Alterranga District Court on Wednesday 17th natively, information can be provided November and reappeared before the anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers Court the following day when they were on 0800 555 111.

Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade

By Ian Blunt Chief Fire Officer mokoroa Volunteer First Response team was once again very busy in November, responding to a variety of incidents. A busy day on the 10th had the team responding four times including attending a serious motorcycle accident on Ōmokoroa Road. This was followed by another busy day, three calls on the 14th. Two calls within minutes of each other on Saturday 20th stretched resources, the fire appliance was alerted to support them but was stood down. In total, the First Response team has responded 23 times to the 20th Novem-

ber. Well done to the members of the team, your commitment is much appreciated. The Firefighters have not been as busy, responding to a large shelter belt fire on Pahoia Beach Road on the 6th November which was related to fireworks, and to two motor vehicle crashes on the 10th. The first was a nose to tail on State Highway 2 short of the Te Puna stream bridge; the second was to a serious motorcycle crash near 85 Ōmokoroa Road in the 50km per hour zone. The road was closed for a few hours while the Serious Crash Unit surveyed the scene, a detour around Tralee Street and Hamurana Road was put in place.

Heartfelt thanks to emergency workers

By Matthew Farrell n Ōmokoroa mother has spoken of a family’s deep appreciation for those who attended the scene of a serious crash between a car and a motorbike on Ōmokoroa Road. Police, the Volunteer Fire Brigade and the Medical First Responders were alerted just after midday on Wednesday 10th November. A young man - a long-term local resident - was reported to be critically injured and a helicopter was dispatched. The road was closed and motorists were advised to avoid the area.

“We are very lucky to have him still with us and we are all very traumatised. He has a long rehabilitation ahead with potentially more surgery. “We are extremely grateful to those first on the scene and to those involved in getting him to where he needed to be as quickly as possible. “My husband has spoken to the first two and many involved were quite shaken up themselves as you might imagine,” she says. Lizard News has chosen not to identify those involved or publish any photographs.

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Early days for Tākitimu North Link By Matthew Farrell nabling works are getting underway as investigations continue for Stage One of the Tākitimu North Link. Waka Kotahi’s Jo Wilton says site crew will be highly visible over coming weeks between Cambridge Road and Wairoa Valley. In May 2021, Fulton Hogan/HEB Joint Venture were awarded the design contract for the new four-lane expressway with a shared walking and cycle path. They’ve since progressed site investigations, technical assessments and detailed design. “Before we start construction, there will be archaeological investigations then enabling works such as the clearance of vegetation, trees and kiwifruit orchards,

L-R: Beca ecologist Jessica Schofield and Fulton Hogan/HEB’s environmental manager Stephanie Kirk checking the fyke nets along the Stage One alignment. PHOTO: Supplied.

building site access tracks and storage areas, and the relocation of power and water,” says Ms Wilton. “Freshwater surveys will be carried out, along with the relocation of native lizards and skinks, and monitoring for native birds and bats in the Minden Gully area.” The property phase has made significant progress and the construction contract is expected to be awarded this month. The project is funded through the Government’s $8.7 billion New Zealand Upgrade

Programme. As for Stage Two, which is on hold due to a lack of Government funding, meetings are being held with landowners to discuss route protection between Te Puna and Ōmokoroa. Public engagement sessions will follow next year. The Transport Agency says it is also working to determine what upgrades can be made to improve safety including the SH2 and Ōmokoroa Road intersection.

Francis Road resident Robin Hicks recently found this 1953 picture postcard of the Blue Mountain Interchange at Pennsylvania Turnpike, ‘The World’s Greatest Highway’. He’d love to see a smaller version constructed at the Ōmokoroa / SH2 intersection.

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MP FOR BA M AY OF PLENTY NTY Wishing Lizzarrd d readers a Mer erry Christmass a an nd a Happy Ne N wY I hope yo ou all hav ve a safe and enjoyab ble sum mmer holiday liday ay and I look loo oo ok forwa ard to ca atc chin ing g up again ag in 2022 22 22. 2 2 Next xt cons nstitu uent ent clinic will be 10 0 am Mon nd da ay 21 February at Te Puna P Ha all. E P

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Redefining Retirement aby Boomers have adopted attitudes and lifestyles, unlike any previous generations. The one million New Zealanders born between 1946 and 1964 make up 23% of our population enjoy a variety of activities, ranging from aerobics to quality time with their favourite Rock n Roll albums. Forget bingo nights and crochet groups as experts predict that boomers are redefining expectations of retirement and the ageing process. You’ll learn pretty quickly that boomers do things very differently to accommodate their needs, are happy to cooperate or be flexible in most situations. Many individuals still care for their own ageing parents and children and still somehow find time to partake

in their own activities and pastimes. Boomers tend to gravitate to living in communities tailored to their generation. So this is why The Gables team have created an environment for active retirees who still want to maintain their independent lifestyle. Our modern well-appointed villas are all within easy walking distance to the clubhouse where there is a wide range of activities to meet the needs of our discerning residents. Boomers also take pleasure in learning about new technology with more than half comfortable using the internet as they connect with their grandies, children, family and friends across the globe. Home improvements and gardening are also things that boomers are pas-

sionate about. With a beautifully landscaped property with room for a vegepod or the opportunity to get involved with the communal vegetable garden or woodworking club. With wetlands and streams on the northern and eastern boundaries of the village, there is an abundance of birdlife in the surrounding native bush. Staying fit is another thing that is high on the list of favourite pastimes. At The Gables, you are spoilt for choice with the cycling track on our southern boundary, only a two-minute drive to the popular Ōmokoroa Golf Course, and the harbour on your doorstep for kayaking, fishing or walking. If this sounds like you, give us a call and will happily show you around our beautiful village. Article supplied.

Crime and Incident Report

Snr Constable James Muir

Burglaries On the 30th October, a trailer and a large number of tools were stolen from a worksite in Te Puna. Unfortunately, no CCTV footage was available. A resource room at the Katikati College was broken into, but CCTV footage should produce leads for police. Tanners Point was targeted in a crime spree at the end of October. Several cars were entered, and property stolen. The suspects have targeted vehicles that were left unlocked.

Theft Remember LOCK it or LOSE it. Unlawful taking of motor vehicles – one vehicle has been reported stolen from Te Puna, information via social media has identified a suspect. We have a report of mail being stolen from a rural address on Munro Road, please report any suspicious activity. Wilful damage An argument at the BP in Te Puna resulted in a windscreen being smashed. The suspect was identified and admitted their role in the offending. Arrests and apprehensions A male was arrested in Katikati for as-

sault on a family member. He appeared in the Tauranga District Court. A female was located on Wainui South Road driving without a driver’s licence after being previously forbidden to drive. The vehicle was impounded. A male was arrested in Katikati for assault on a family member, and appeared in the Tauranga District Court. A male was arrested for breaching bail conditions. General After two weeks of crime in the Ōmokoroa area, we finally had a weekend where there were no thefts or burglaries. Please do call Police for

any suspicious behaviour. A vehicle crash occurred on Minden Road. There were no injuries to the single occupant of the vehicle. If you’re driving, make sure you’re wearing your seatbelt, are alcohol-free, not talking or texting on your cell phone and you’re driving under the speed limit. The public counter is open, but I would encourage people to keep on reporting crime and incidents online through the Police website or by ringing 105 unless it is urgent in which case 111 is the go to number. Remember to look out for your neighbours. If you SEE something SAY something.

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Kaimai Range overnight closures tate Highway 29 over the Kaimai Range is scheduled to be partially closed overnight from Sunday 21st November for up to three weeks for essential maintenance work. Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency advises that the duration of work will be from 8pm to 5.30am from Sunday to Friday and will be from the intersections with State Highway 24 and State Highway 28 at Te Poi on the Waikato side, through to the intersection of SH29 and Cambridge Road on the Bay of Plenty side. During the periods when SH29 is closed there will be two three and a half hour windows to allow for traffic to pass through in one direction only. The timetable for the works is: 8pm to 9pm - SH29 will be fully closed to all traffic while the site is being set up. 9pm to 12.30am - SH29 will be open to traffic travelling from the east (Bay of Plenty) to the west (Waikato). 12.30am to 1am - A full road closure will be in place to allow for the change of traffic direction. 1am to 4.30am - SH29 will be open to traffic travelling from the west (Waikato) to the east (Bay of Plenty). 4.30am to 5:30am - Final closure to allow for the site to be made safe for the resumption of two way traffic during the day. Resident access will be maintained at all times during the works, however residents will need to liaise with the traffic control teams onsite.

Waikato System Manager Cara Lauder says the partial closure allows the vital maintenance work to take place while still allowing traffic, particularly trucks, to plan their journey across the Kaimai Range. “Completing the road maintenance work safely is our priority. However we know that regular users such as freight want certainty to plan their journey. This partial closure will allow us to get important surfacing work done, while still enabling freight to get to and from Tauranga.” Waka Kotahi has opted for one long window for traffic in each direction rather than more frequent but shorter windows to avoid lengthy queues of vehicles waiting for their turn to cross the Kaimai Range. By having a longer window drivers, especially those in trucks, can plan their journey with greater certainty that when they arrive the road will be open. During the day the road will reopen to two lanes and there will be reduced speeds through areas that have been recently resealed. The detours for this closure are significant. Road users are advised to plan their travel according to when the road will be open or use alternative routes. Any drivers planning to use the eastbound or west-bound travel window during the closures are advised to allow extra time for their journey. The work is scheduled to be complete

by 12th December. Work will happen every night during the week except for Saturdays. Ms Lauder says SH29 over the Kaimai Range is difficult terrain, exposed to many weather events and has high traffic volumes. “All of these factors create additional

challenges for our regular maintenance programme and we’d like to thank those who travel over the Kaimai Range regularly for their patience.” Road users are encouraged to visit the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner website journeys.nzta.govt.nz for up to date information.

Aiming for a classic Kiwi summer Hon Scott Simpson MP For Coromandel hat a year it’s been. No one could have predicted the disruption and uncertainty we’ve all faced these last 12 months. But like many others, I’m looking forward to a ‘best as we can’ classic summer. Our region is home to some of the best beaches, walking and cycling tracks and fishing spots in the country. More than the well-known attractions, it’s our small businesses, volunteers and local characters that make the Coromandel and Western Bay of Plenty so special. We have so many amazing communities, and the summer signals a time when the rest of the country remembers what they’re missing out on. The downside of being a popular sum-

mer destination is that increased traffic highlights the underinvestment in our roads, especially State Highway 2. Locals know all too well that upgrading this stretch of road needs to be made a priority. Stage 2 of the Tauranga to Ōmokoroa Northern Link would have gone some way to alleviating the issue, but its cancellation kicks the can further down the road. These projects take a significant amount of time to plan and complete. When it comes to roads in the Western Bay of Plenty, the Government and NZTA have shown time and again that they’re in no hurry to deliver. Please never hesitate to be in touch if I can be of assistance or if you’d like to let me know your thinking on issues of concern. Just email mpcoromandel@parliament.govt.nz or phone on 0800 550 330.

Scott Simpson MP for o Coro I’m going to be in Omok O oroa available to meet wit w h you 0800 550 330 to mak a e an ap Upcoming Dates: 26 Novemb ber 2021 21 January 2022 Funded by the Parrliamentary Service. Authorised by Scott Simpson, 614 Pollen St, Thame

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By Karen Wallace new era has arrived, and with it, a new name for Waihī Beach Residents and Ratepayers Association. ‘Focus on Waihī Beach’ reflects more on what we do for the community because it is about collaboration. We liaise with Western Bay of Plenty District Council and form working relationships with all parts of the community, helping move projects forward, and informing the community and working with the Community Board. The Athenree Walkway/Cycleway is an exciting connection between Athenree and Bowentown, which crosses the estuary away from the main harbour and

Island View’s new playground is a great success.

with a series of tracks and walks, connecting right through to Pōhutukawa Park in Athenree. It needs to be part of the larger picture connecting Waihī, Waihī Beach, Athenree to Katikati. Public feedback has been requested by Council with the Have Your Say page closing on 26th November. Focus hosted a public meeting Sunday 7th November. What an exciting, well-attended meeting on a sunny Sunday afternoon. The meeting was chaired by Don Fraser and Ross Goudie. Andy Kennedy gave some background for the reason of the meeting, discussing the concern that council did not make any reference to the existing community centre as a suitable and logical site for the future library and council service centre. Thank you to Anne Henry, Don Ryan, Rachel Cole, and many other members of the public for their input. There were 96 attendees, 120 letters signed, with more to be collected, and 83 have signed a petition: “Please Council, locate our new hub in front of, beside, behind or above the existing library”. The

people have spoken. The Live Well initiative by Council continues with a new contact and facilitator. We welcome Sam Martinson to his role. Another initiative from the ‘Focus on Waihī Beach’ team is the Menz Shed. Building is well underway and should be ready by Christmas. What a team effort and what amazing support we have had from the local community. Their generosity is beyond belief. A big thank you to our Community Board for their support. Island View has an amazing new playground for children to enjoy and family and visitors to relax in. A big thank you to the WBOPDC for a job well done. A special thank you to Ōtāwhiwhi Marae for their Tuatara sculpture. We aim to write a regular column in the Lizard News about what’s happening at Waihī Beach. For any inquiries, suggestions, or for information about future events, please Contact Don Fraser on 021 777 675 or me, Karen Wallace, on 021 337 559 or karenwallace930@gmail.com

The Menz Shed project is well underway.

The tuatara sculpture at the Island View playground.

The recent Focus meeting was well attended.

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Māori urged to vaccinate; protests have limited effect on government support By Matthew Farrell s of last month, Māori in Bay of Plenty had the lowest percentage of Covid-19 vaccination doses of any ethnicity of any DHB area across the country. The District Health Board is echoing a call from iwi health leaders imploring Māori to come forward and get jabbed, to prevent Delta from hammering the region. Te Rūnanga Hauora Māori o te Moana ā Toi - which represents 17 iwi - has issued a declaration calling on the descendants of Toi - of Mātaatua waka, Tākitimu waka, Tainui waka, and Te Arawa waka - to get vaccinated. Bay of Plenty DHB chair Sharon Shea says the Board values the Rūnanga’s voice, advice and shared role in DHB decisionmaking. “The Covid-19 vaccine offers us the best protection against this deadly virus. All Iwi are supporting whānau to get vaccinated as soon as possible. “Kōrero with someone who has already had it, speak to a trusted healthcare provider, or seek trusted information if you haven’t yet taken the opportunity,” she says. DHB chief executive Pete Chandler says the vaccine is safe and can protect the community if enough people are vaccinated. “There’s now a very limited and critical window of time to get fully vaccinated. Health care teams across the Bay are urging people not to delay. Don’t wait for Delta to get here,” he says. The Ministry of Health says vaccinated people are far less likely to contract Covid19, or to get severely sick from the disease,

or to require hospitalisation. The vaccine also reduces a vaccinated person’s likelihood of passing on Covid-19 to others. Tauranga Hospital is not turning away unvaccinated people from its services but asks those with fever, cough, sore throat, loss of taste or smell to cancel appointments. The breakdown: Nationally, 91% of people have had a first jab or are booked, and 83% of the eligible population over 12 were fully vaccinated as at 22nd November. For Bay of Plenty DHB, it’s 88% first dose and 78% second dose. However, for Bay of Plenty Māori, it’s only 73% first dose and 57% second dose. For all ethnicities Bay of Plenty is 4,764 first doses and 26,339 second doses away from 90%. For Māori alone 8,160 first doses and 15,668 second doses still required in order to reach the government’s goal of 90%. As at 22nd November, the DHB said more than 95% of Pacific Island residents in the Bay were fully vaccinated. The fallout: The Freedoms and Rights Coalition, founded by Destiny Church leader Brian Tāmaki, has been holding various protests across the country following the government’s “no jab, no job” policy announcement for healthcare, disability, paid firefighters and education workers. Marches and gatherings included Memorial Park in Tauranga, the Beehive in Wellington and a gridlock traffic protest which included a Paengaroa to Bethlehem go-slow.

Radio New Zealand reported 1300 DHB staff and 700 teachers stood down nationally is around 1.5% and 1% of the public health and education workforces respectively. The NZ Herald reported that a Talbot Mills Research poll found 78% public support for a vaccine mandate for health workers, and 76% for teaching staff. Supporters say such workers have a duty to protect the vulnerable in their care including the immune-compromised, and those too young to be vaccinated, and that protesters are effectively campaigning for the right to spread a killer illness.

The politics: Last month’s 1News Colmar Brunton political poll saw Labour down 2 points at 41%, National up 2 at 28%, ACT steady on 14%, and the Greens up 1 to 9%. If an election was held tomorrow, the figures would give Labour 53 seats in Parliament, National 36, ACT 18, the Greens 12, and the Māori Party one seat. Jacinda Ardern dropped 5 points to 39% in the preferred prime minister stakes ahead of ACT’s David Seymour on 11%, National’s Judith Collins on 5%, National’s Christopher Luxon 4% and the Greens’ Chloe Swarbrick 2%.

Award for Council planner

By Matthew Farrell istrict Council resource management manager, Phillip Martelli, has received a Distinguished Service Award from the local branch of the NZ Planning Institute. He’s been a resource management planner and local government professional for more than 40 years. During that time, he’s mentored and coached countless planners who have gone on to forge successful careers. Many still work with Phillip today. He’s seen the Western Bay sub-region change, grow and develop over 30 years with Western Bay of Plenty District Council and can be proud of his contribution in shaping the district we live or work in. Council colleagues have asked Lizard News to pass on their congratula-

tions and thanks to Phillip for his dedication, resilience, expertise, and friendship.

Phillip Martelli (left) receiving a Distinguished Service Award. PHOTO: Supplied.

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Adapted pet day at No 1

By Sue Morgan-French ockdown has made everyone adapt what they do at work or play. This is the same at school. Usually, we have a really big Pet Day with all sorts of animals, crafts, displays and lots of parents and relations visiting our school. It’s one of the highlights of the school year. We couldn’t do that this year, but we still did something. The lambs, and one baby goat, still came as children had been working hard raising and training these. This year this was sponsored by Eve’s

Green Team, giving us ribbons, certificates and even a judge. Most classrooms still did some of the activities that they would have done for display if Pet Day had gone ahead as usual. There was cake decorating, cupcakes, computer work, pet rocks, floral arrangements, technology challenges, Vaseline saucers, unusual containers for plants and flowers, and more. The children still got a taste of Pet day and hopefully, by next year it will be all go!

Covid knocks over info session

By Matthew Farrell n information session for planning, infrastructure and recreation projects around Ōmokoroa was postponed as a precaution last month to minimise Covid-19 risks. The District Council was planning an information session for Thursday 18th November as part of a regular series of in-person community updates to inform residents and give them an opportunity to talk with the Council team. “We’d have loved to have rounded out 2021 with a recap on the fantastic work achieved with the community’s patience, but under current alert levels, we must prioritise health and safety,” says Gary Allis, Deputy CEO and Group Manager Infrastructure Services. To stay in the loop with the Ōmokoroa peninsula projects, you can visit Council’s website and story map, and sign up

for a monthly email newsletter. The postponed session was the final for the 2021 calendar year and will be postponed until 2022. The projects on display cover planning, infrastructure and large recreational projects such as the Ōmokoroa Domain playground. It is estimated Ōmokoroa will be home to 12,000 residents by 2050. Along with private developments, there are more than 15 current Council-initiated projects, including roading, reserves, cycleways, stormwater, building and planning - between now and 2022. The estimated cost is $50 million, of which $14 million is co-funded by the Government’s Shovel Ready Infrastructure Programme. Projects include collaboration with tangata whenua, Pirirākau hapū; the Ministry of Education; and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.

Cake decorating, nature art and pets on display at a low-key Pet Day at No 1 school. PHOTOS: Supplied.

Ōmokoroa Road ripped up

By Matthew Farrell he major reconstruction project of Ōmokoroa Road between Western Avenue and Tralee Street is ramping up. Embankment construction opposite the Margaret Drive intersection was expected to be completed by the end of November. Pavement and roadway construction is now underway. It is still expected to be completed by the end of June 2022, despite Covid lockdown related delays. Meanwhile, the design for the urbanisation of Stage 2 from Prole Road to the railway is progressing and is expected to be completed before the end of 2021. The project is being revised to include four traffic lanes from Prole Road to Flounder Drive to allow for future traffic

flows from the JACE town centre development. The Council expects physical works to begin early next year and be completed by the end of 2022. Council has plans to formalise the pedestrian and cycleway from Prole Road to Western Avenue as part of Stage 2. The section of the path from Kaimai Views to the railway bridge will be concreted in 2022. Construction is expected to start in February or March. The Ōmokoroa railway pedestrian and cycleway bridges are largely complete, but minor adjustments to the northern side are expected to improve cyclist movements. Design is also complete for the urbanisation of Western Avenue to the north of Gane Place. It is anticipated this project may be completed by June 2022.

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Ōmokoroa Community Policing Group Charitable Trust By Bill Jacob ver the last few months, we have been negotiating with Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support (WBoPNS), with the objective of changing the Ōmokoroa Neighbourhood Support (ONS) affiliation arrangement with WBoPNS, to one of direct membership of New Zealand Neighbourhood Support

By John Collier on behalf of Ōmokoroa Community Gardens

receive any Newsletters or alerts the same as anyone else on ONS. Our Community Patrol volunteers have been out and about, and came across quite a few ‘incidents’. There were several occurrences of groups of teenagers wandering the streets late at night causing building-site vandalism or just generally milling around looking for trouble. Several thefts of vehicles and contents removed before the vehicles were recovered. Graffiti Busters have been quiet with few incidents lately. Phone 07 548 1286 if you see any tagging, or tagging taking place. Don’t forget: if you see or hear anything happening that should be a Police matter, don’t hesitate to call Police on 111 (if it’s urgent and/or happening now) or 105 by phone or on the web at www.police.govt.nz/105support. Alternatively, if you wish to provide anonymous information use the Crimestoppers Freephone 0800 555 111.

Save seeds and prosper

pring is with us. It is a busy time in the gardens, sowing, transplanting, and nurturing our young seedlings into full summer fruition. The presence of the viral cloud for the last 18 months has led me to reflect on the power and potential of seeds. It got

(NSNZ). This is now concluded and we are now an independent member of NSNZ. We are very grateful to Tess Casey, the CEO of NSNZ for her professional guidance through this process. Our ONS team is now led by Rachel Millard, with four other volunteers including myself, Bill Jacob, looking after the residents’ database via Mailchimp. We now have the tasks of making sure that we haven’t lost anybody in the data transfer from WBoPNS as well as filling the gaps with Street Contacts who we know have left. Also high on the agenda is canvassing new areas for membership. So if there is anyone willing to become a Street Contact with a small group of interested neighbours, get in touch with us via email at nsomokoroa@gmail.com and we’ll help you through the process. If you would like to become an independent member of ONS then we can accommodate that and you will still

me thinking about intentional planting and cultivation to grow sustainable plants, where we can harvest food, and gather seeds for next season and, hopefully, the next decades. Seeds are pure magic, and there is no mystery to gathering and saving seeds. Ideally, choose your seeds from heritage sources which will usually be organic, local, with a reliable provenance, and from plants that do well

in your local climate. What you plant now can be the source of a handful of seeds that will guarantee you seed stock for next year. I let one tomato, pepper, courgette, pumpkin, and cucumber get really mature and then squish it onto a paper towel. Dry it, label it, and put it in an envelope in a dry place until next year. I do the same with beans, rocket seeds, basil seeds, onions, and chives.

Wait till they produce seeds, gather, label, and save till next spring. Ten dried bean pods will give me enough seeds for planting one whole bed at the gardens next year. It’s not just economical, it’s necessary as supply chains snarl and tangle, and we can’t always rely on the supplies we used to enjoy. And for those with an artistic bent, it’s a great distraction to decorate and illustrate your seed envelopes.

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December 2021 | Lizard News |

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Christmas: A time for good news By Neville Bartle for Ōmokoroa Baptist Church Matthew Needham, Ōmokoroa Community Church Shaun Sutcliffe for C3 Church Ōmokoroa ight after night we watch the six o’clock news but so often there is little good news. Often it seems to be a mixture of Covid, financial uncertainty, fear and anxiety. We ask ourselves, “Where is the good news?” Two thousand years ago the world was also looking for good news. Rome ruled the world with an iron fist. Half the population were slaves. Poverty and ethnic division were rampant. In Jerusalem, Herod, the tyrannical ruler, was determined to keep his throne and would kill anyone he perceived to be a threat. It was into this world that angelic messengers came on that first Christmas night saying, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people”. Christians believe that God, the creator of this universe, did not leave this world to descend into further chaos and selfdestruct. Instead, God emptied himself of all but love and became a human baby. Jesus was born into poverty. He slept in an animals’ feeding trough. His parents fled from Herod’s soldiers and he was a refugee. By entering into our humanness, God in Jesus, personally experienced the hunger, loneliness, oppression and grief that are so present in all of human life. The Bible refers to Jesus as

Emmanuel, which means: ‘God with us’. Jesus came to reconcile humanity with its creator and to bring about a new quality of life characterised by inclusion, love, peace, and justice. God’s desire is for a world where people are treated with dignity and respect with no more oppression or discrimination, no more poverty or hunger, illness or viruses. By entering into our humanity, God says to us, “I understand you” and “I weep with you”. Christmas marks the birth of Jesus Christ, the Son of God and his offering of hope, joy and peace. This is a time to celebrate and gather with your loved ones around the true meaning of Christmas. And that’s why we’d love to welcome you to celebrate with us this Christmas at the following events: Community Carol Concert Sunday 12th December, 7pm Ōmokoroa Community Church. Carols Sunday 19th December, 11am at Ōmokoroa Sports Pavilion – C3 Church. Community Carol Sing with Katikati Brass band and Katikati Singers. Sunday 19th December, 6pm at Settlers’ Hall, hosted by Ōmokoroa Baptist Church. Christmas Eve 24th December Christmas Carols at Andertons (Ōmokoroa Domain) 6pm.

Undeserved dumping By Rachael Hyland he Centre volunteers work tirelessly fundraising for the benefit of the Ōmokoroa community, but having to front up, clean up, and then pay up to get the unsightly, unsaleable rubbish removed from the footpath outside the shop is infuriating and counterproductive. The sign on the door is clear: ‘Please do not leave donations for The Centre on the footpath when we are closed.’ To fulfil its purpose of fundraising for the community, The Centre relies on donations of saleable goods and we do get wonderful support to that end. It is the community that loses because of the actions of the selfish few who choose to dump. So if you have items for us to sell in our shop, please bring them in when The Centre is open. If you cannot come in during opening hours, please email omokcentre@gmail.com to arrange a suitable time. The big grizzle is done - now for some much more positive reading. The Centre is an amazing wee shop stocked by you, the generous people in the Ōmokoroa community. You are the most important cog in the OCT wheel because without your generosity the Centre would cease to exist. When you visit The Centre look around at the wonderful items for sale, it’s amazing. Our volunteers love what they do and the comments we receive from so many customers are truly gratifying. ‘Wonderful shop’, ‘I’m coming back’, ‘excellent stock’, etc. With Christmas just around the corner

OMOKOROA SELF STORAGE

Some of the rubbish recently dumped at The Centre, including food. PHOTOS: Supplied.

(I won’t mention how many sleeps!) we are displaying the mountain of Christmas decorations that we have saved over the year, so come in and get trimmings for your Christmas tree and peruse the shelves for Christmas gifts at very attractive prices. Remember, the community, The Centre and OCT all work together to achieve amazing results. Your continuing support is truly appreciated. So many, many thanks to you all and have a wonderful Christmas.

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Visit Santa’s Grotto rom 13th to 29th December, The Arts Junction at 36 Main Road, Katikati will be hosting Santa’s Grotto. The Grotto is open daily Monday to Friday from 9am-4pm, and Saturdays and Sundays and Public Holidays 10am-2pm.

It will be closed on Christmas Day and New Years Day. Visit Santa in his Grotto for an escape into a magical wonderland. Be wowed by the festive lights, music and displays. Entry by koha/donation. All are welcome.

Santa will welcome everyone to his Grotto this December. PHOTOS: Supplied.

Make your Museum experience come alive with a guided tour f you’re planning your day out in Katikati, the Western Bay Museum has made your visit easier by offering guided tours at specific times, four times a week. “The best way to experience the museum and to unlock the stories of our past is through an experienced tour guide,” says Paula Gaelic, Museum Manager. “With more people travelling domestically and stopping at Katikati to experience all that we offer, we realised offering guided tours at specific times could help visitors get the most from their visit and enable them to plan their day.” The Museum’s Tour Guides are knowledgeable local volunteers with a passion for the town, the museum and its rich history. Tours are brief and informative – just 20 minutes long with the opportunity for visitors to stay longer and explore areas of interest or to ask the guide more. Included in the tour is the fascinating story of George Vesey Stewart, founder of the Ulster plantation settlements of Katikati and Te Puke and the background

behind Samuel Middlebrook’s collection of Māori artefacts. Guides give an insight into the latest exhibition Music Music Music and the stories behind our first international singing stars and their songs. There’s holiday fun for kids and adults alike with lots of interactive activities and games in the 1900s School Room. Outside, looking out over the Uretara Stream, visitors can explore a Māori Medicinal Garden (Te Rongoā) a traditional pioneers herb garden and the original jail/lockup from 1880. Western Bay Museum is highly rated by visitors of all ages and ranked in the top five things to do in Katikati by Trip Advisor. The only museum in the Western Bay of Plenty, it’s bright and modern and well regarded for high-quality exhibitions. Tour times are Mondays at 11am, Wednesdays 2pm, Thursdays 11am, Saturdays 12 noon. No booking is required. Western Bay Museum is open Monday-Friday 10am-4pm, SaturdaySunday 11am-3pm. Phone 07 549 0651. Adults $5, Gold Card $4. Western Bay residents and ratepayers receive free entry and tour. Article supplied.

Western Bay Museum dressed up for Christmas. PHOTOS: Supplied.

Museum Manager Paula Gaelic addresses a group.

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December 2021 | Lizard News |

Key stats for o 2021 We've installed:

2000m +

5000m3

of stormwater pipes

of earthworks

4000m +

of footpath

street lights

Projects alm most complete

What a year it's been!

Due mid December

Ōmokoroa Domain Playground Kids get ready! Our $1.4 millio on project to create an exciting new destination playground will w soon be open for adventure. The new playground includes swings, trampolines, tunnels, climbing structures and a ham mster wheel.

We W e’ve made a lot of progress on projects across the peninsula. Thanks for your patience as our team and contractors continue to get work done and set Ōmokoroa up for the future. Thanks to everyone who a ended one of our two information sessions this yearr.. It was great to connect with you about what’s been done and what’s coming up. 2022 is shaping up to be a big year so sign up to our Ōmokoroa Projects email newsle er to keep up to date with key dates and news.

Ready to enjoy

Due mid Decem mber

Pahoia cyclewayy///w walkway bridge The new suspension bridge accross the Waipapa Stream, connecting Ōmokoroa and Pahoia a is nearly complete. The new bridge is 72 metres long and nearly 2 metres wide, allowing for cyclists and pedestrians to sh hare the trail. Trail connection and construction from the bridge to Pahoia Road will follow in 2022, depending on KiwiRail approval, and funding.

We W estern Av Avenue garden and shared path The new pathway connecting Ōmokoroa Road through the reserve to the new Sports Pavilion was completed, including a small garden and seating area between the playground and the ablutions facility.

Due mid December

Ōmokoroa railway p pedestrian and cycleway bridges The standalone pedestrian bridges on either side of the existing Ōmokoroa Road brid dge over the railway line were completed. The new bridges provide safe pedestrian access across the raillway line.

Ōmokoroa je y refurbish hment The je y walking surface has been updated with a durable ‘ﬁbre reinforced polyymer’, this is an intermediary measure ahead of a full up pgrade.

Stormwater bund aand walkwayy///cy cycleway The boardwalk at the end of the t Ōmokoroa foreshore cycleway/walkway is now com mplete, and the path that links the boardwalk to Kayelene Place, will be ﬁnished in mid December. This track is the ﬁn nal link that will connect the Precious Family Reserve, arou und the Ōmokoroa golf course to Kayelene Place. The bund section of the track was opened by Mayor Garry y Webber in Novemberr..

Visit our

Interactive Story Map

Check out the e progress here Our story map is a great interactive tool showing a satellite image view of the e areas being developed. Scan the QR code to access our ‘Ōmok mokoroa Projects’ interactive story map.

Coming up p...

Four lanes coming Ōmokoroa Road Urbanisation Stage 2: We’re finishing up on finalising the design a er revising the project to include four traffic lanes from the Prole Road/ Ōmokoroa Road intersection to the north of Flounder Drive intersection to allow for future traffic flows from the JACE town centre development.

Making W We estern Avvenue a destination A for the community Western A We Avve Urbanisation: J Swap have begun to upgrade W Wes estern A venue (Ōmokoroa Road to north of Gane Place). Their programme of work includes widening and upgrading the existing road, new streetlights, kerbing, parking by the Sports Pavilion, various walking and cycling paths, landscaping, and remarking of the existing carpark in front of the Sports Pavilion ground. nd. The construction work is expected to be completed by May 2022.

Construction is expected to start in February-March 2022 and completed by the end of 2022.

Prole Road urban makeover Prole Road urbanisation: Negotiations with land downers are near completion and the de esign and consenting i bein is b i g ﬁﬁnalised li d for th the h upgrade d of Prole l Road to an urban standard. Work will begin in March-April 2022.

A modern n urban road A new road to service upcoming industrial land Southern Industrial Road: To T o cater for the growing need for industrial zoned land, we will be constructing 360m of industrial road. This is on the southern side of Ōmokoroa Road heading east. We W e expect to ﬁnalise our tender process in December and construction of the industrial road will then start early 2022.

Ōmokoroa Road d Urbanisation Stage 1: This year we’ve done d extensive work to the services arou und the road – stormwater connections, power and lighting, footpath and cycleway, kerbin e g and channelling. Now complete, the t next step is to start work on the roadway construction. The section of Ōmokoroa Road from Western Avenue to Anderley Road will be worked on ﬁrst and will be sealed by Christmas. The next section n from Anderley Avenue to Tr Tralee Street will w start again early 2022 and all pavement works including McKenna Lane and T Trralee Street roundabouts will be completed prior to June 2022.

Stay up to date on all our Ōmokoroa Peninsula Projects • Visit: westernbayy.g .govt.nz//omok omokoroaprojects and sign up to our e-newsle er • Email: omokoroaprojects@westernbayy..govt.nz Phone: 0800 926 732

Te Kaunihera a rohe mai i Ngā Kuri-a-Whā ārei ki Otamarakau ki te Uru

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY – WEEKLY EVENTS

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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 liz@lizardnews.net or call 548 1200.

MONDAYS

Homewood Park Tennis Club 9am start. 30A Park Road, Katikati. New members welcome. Email katikati.tennis@outlook.com. Pilates Ōmokoroa Sports Pavilion. 9.1510.15am. Contact Claudia 021 192 7706. ‘Move It’ Fitness at Whakamārama Hall. 9am. $5 or $25 per term. Class runs for about 45 minutes. Phone Caryn 021 133 5390. Fitness Fun Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 9.3010.30am. Contact Gloria on 021 139 2448. Scrabble at both 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 are welcome. Starts back 10th Feb. 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. Justice of the Peace clinic 1-3pm Ōmokoroa Library & Service Centre. Ōmokoroa Beach Indoor Bowling Club Settlers’ Hall 1pm. 1st session free then $3. Equipment and tea provided. Wear smoothsoled shoes/slippers. Call Anne 027 430 4876. Scottish Country Dancing 1-3 pm. St Peter’s Anglican Church, Beach Road. $4. All ages, no partner required. Call Douglas 021 0244 6099. Bolivia Katikati Community Centre, Beach Road. 1-4pm. Some knowledge of canasta useful but not essential. Contact Gay 549 2527. Movie Matinee 1.30pm at the Arts Junction, Katikati. Tickets $10. Limited seats. 549 5250. Bridge Club Ōmokoroa Sports Pavilion afternoons. Call Lyn Chaston 022 165 0820 lynchaston@btinternet.com Dance Fit Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 5.30-6.30. Call Kylie 022 071 2794.

IGIRLZ Fun adventure and learning for girls 8 - 11. 6-7.30pm Ōmokoroa Community Church Hall. Call 548 2515. Yoga Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 6.15-7.45pm. Contact Mollie 021 177 8018. Table Tennis Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall. Seniors (18+) 7-9pm. $3 per single, $5 per couple. Inc supper. White-sole shoes preferred. Call Bruce Lauchlan on 548 1741. Social indoor netball term time at 6pm. Apata Community Hall - Pahoia School. Ages 11+. $5 per night. Beginners welcome. Contact Kirsten 022 535 1530. ITF Taekwon-do classes at Te Puna School Hall. 6-7.30pm. Self defence, self confidence, fitness. First 2 weeks free. George 022 437 4403. Cards 500 7pm at Ōmokoroa Bowling Club. $3 incl tea and biscuits. Prizes/raffles monthly. 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 Barry 027 492 6475. Te Puna Quarry Park clearing, planting and weed control from 8am and from 1.30pm. Contact Shirley on 552 2707. Te Puna Tennis Club casual tennis. 9am start. Casual and new players welcome. Contact Catherine tptennisclub@gmail.com or 021 506 855. Mainly Music Ōmokoroa Pavilion 9.30am in term times. $4 per family. Jena 021 052 7262. Pahoia Creative Fibre Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall. 1st, 3rd and 5th Tuesdays at 10am. Learn to spin, weave, felt, knit, crochet and more. Call Alison 022 0849 348. Tai Chi 9.30-10.30am Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall. Trevor on 022 322 3410 or Anne 548 0763. Keep on your Feet strength & balance for older adults. 10.30-11.30am Catholic Church Hall, 89 Beach Road, Katikati. 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. Mahjong Circle 1pm at the Ōmokoroa Sports Pavilion, Western Avenue. Call Denise on 548 1385 or Margaret 548 2126. Wise & Wonderful Arts & crafts, games and afternoon tea for seniors. Pick up and drop off available in Katikati area. 1.30-3pm at Katikati Community Centre. Gold coin. Contact 549 0399 or info@katikaticommunity.nz Therapeutic Tai Chi for beginners. Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 2.45-3.45pm. One free trial class then $7. Contact Karin 548 1787 or baysyoga@xtra.co.nz Teen Advisory Board Plan, promote and implement programs and events for teens. Year 7 to 13 students. 3.30-4.30pm during the school term at Pātuki Manawa. Gentle Yoga & Qi Gong at Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 4–5.30pm. One free trial class then $12. Concessions available. Contact: Karin 548 1787 or baysyoga@xtra.co.nz Ōmokoroa Tennis Club 6-8pm. Contact Sharon Parker on 027 261 9517. Ōmokoroa Beach Indoor Bowling Club Settlers’ Hall 6.30 for 7pm play. 1st session free then $3. Equipment and supper provided. Wear smooth-soled shoes/slippers. Call Anne 027 430 4876 or 548 1636.

WEDNESDAYS

Kaimai Ramblers day tramp. Good standard of fitness required, boots recommended. Call Lisa 021 044 6449, or Kevin 021 0200 6306. 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. ‘Move It’ Fitness at Whakamārama Hall. 9am. $5 or $25 per term. Class runs for about 45 minutes. Phone Caryn 021 133 5390. Knit & Natter at both Ōmokoroa Library and Pātuki Manawa, Katikati. 10am. Free. Stepping Up free computer classes at Katikati Library. Wednesdays/Thursdays. Book on 571 8008 or www.steppingup.nz Fitness League exercise, movement, dance, for posture, strengthening & stretching. All ages & abilities. 10am Memorial Hall, Katikati. Phone Pam 549 4799. Ōmokoroa Artists Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 10.45am-3.30pm. $4. Contact Jill 548 0139 or Facebook page: Ōmokoroa Artists. Katikati Bowling Club Combined Roll-up. 1pm start. Names in by 12.45pm. Coaching available. 8 Park Rd, Katikati. Phone 549 0103. Adults Dance & Move 12.30pm St Peter’s Church, Beach Road, Katikati. Many styles of fun dance. Contact Gaye on gayehemsley@gmail.com, 577 1753 or 027 274 8753. 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. Western Bay Museum Guided Tour 2pm. WBOP residents and ratepayers FREE. 32 Main Rd, Katikati. Ph 07 549 0651 Ōmokoroa Athletics Club 4.15–5pm (3–6 years) and 5.15- 6.45pm (7–14 years) at Western Ave Sports Grounds. Wrestling Katikati Primary age 5.30-6.30pm, College age/seniors 6.30pm-8pm. Bring a drink bottle. A&P Hall, Major Street. Text Ross 027 256 4470. Twilight tennis at Te Puna Tennis Club. 6pm start. Contact Catherine tptennisclub@gmail.com or 021 506 855.

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DATES FOR YOUR DIARY – WEEKLY EVENTS

lizardnews.net

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 liz@lizardnews.net or call 548 1200. Te Puna Community Library in the School library 6.30-7.30pm. Justice of the Peace clinic 6.30-7.30pm Te Puna School Library. Yoga Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 7-8pm. Contact Sarah 021 022 19892. Quiz Night Waihī Beach Hotel, 60 Wilson Road. 7-9.30pm. 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 7.30-8.30am. Baptist Church, 2 Wedgewood St, Katikati. Free entry. All welcome. Pick Up/Drop Off Service and shower facilities available. 549 0399. 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 Trevor on 022 322 3410 or Anne 548 0763. Katikati Embroidery Group 10am St Pius Church, Beach Road, Katikati. Call Jenny 549 2151. Adult Colouring-in at Pātuki Manawa. 10am. Refreshments provided. Free. Tai Chi for beginners Sports Pavillion, Western Ave, Ōmokoroa 10-11am. Call Sabine 021 1388770 or tetzlaffsabine@gmail.com. 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. Scrapbooking The Old Library Omokoroa 10am and 12.30pm fortnightly. $10.00. Contact Collette 027 460 9630 for more info and to book.

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. Scottish Country Dancing Bethlehem Hall, 1.15-3.15pm. Call Heather 021 185 5747. Line Dancing Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall. Beginners 1-3pm. Call Joce 021 486 265. Brick Club Afterschool LEGO sessions in Ōmokoroa Library 2.45-4.45pm. ITF Taekwon-do classes at Te Puna School Hall. 6-7.30pm. Self defence, self confidence, fitness. First 2 weeks free. George 022 437 4403. Social Dancing Ballroom, Latin, Rock n Roll, Salsa. 7pm Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall. $5. Contact Angela 027 246 1624. Ōmokoroa Songsters Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall during school terms from 7-8:30pm. Contact Jan Murray 548 2452, Alison Badger 548 1544. Katikati Concert Band 7-9pm, Katikati Bowling Club. We welcome all ages and experience. Contact Mick 021 217 1780. Bridge Club Ōmokoroa Sports Pavilion in the evening. Call Lyn Chaston 022 165 0820 lynchaston@btinternet.com Katikati Toastmasters Club Communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater selfconfidence and personal growth. 7.30pm on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursdays at the Community Centre, Beach Road. Contact 544 5989.

FRIDAYS

Social Tennis Waihī Beach Tennis Club 8.30/9 am start. All year. Casual & new players welcome. Call Barry 027 492 6475. Friends of the Blade direct message the Facebook: Friends of the Blade or email

noelenetaylor57@gmail.com

Line Dancing Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall. General session 9am-noon. Call Shirley on 548 1633. Preschool Storytime ‘Read Sing Move’ at 10am at Ōmokoroa Library. Caregivers, please stay with your children. Free to attend.

Sewing and Knitting with Project Generate 10am-11am. 14 Jocelyn St, Katikati. All welcome. Phone 549 4522 or txt 027 472 1112.

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 Barbara Walls on 548 2899. Ōmokoroa Singles over 60s meet for friendship, outings, etc. Coffee 11am at Ōmokoroa Boat Club or email Ōmokoroa.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. Enquires to Janet on janetandwillie@kinect.co.nz or Linley on 218 7003. Katikati Senior Citizens Indoor Bowls 12.45pm at Katikati Memorial Hall. Contact Heather 549 1008.

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.

Twilight Bowls Ōmokoroa Bowling Club from 4pm. 7-week season ends 23rd Dec. Sam Pritchard on 021 188 7994.

SATURDAYS

Yoga at Ōmokoroa Pavilion 8-9am. $80 for 8 weeks. Contact Natasha on 021 735 327. www.natrainwellness.com

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

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 Ōmokoroa Toy Library 9.30-11am behind the Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall.

Te Puna Community Library in the School library 10am-noon.

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. 1-3pm. Names in by 12.45pm please. All welcome. Coaching available. 8 Park Rd, Katikati. Phone 549 0103. Ōmokoroa Tennis Club 2-4pm. Contact Sharon Parker on 027 261 9517.

SUNDAYS

Ōmokoroa Cricket 20 overs from 1pm every second Sunday at Western Ave. BYO picnic. FB: @omokoroacricket

Jam session Waihī Beach Hotel, 60 Wilson Road. 4-7pm. Everyone welcome.

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DATES FOR YOUR DIARY – DECEMBER

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Monthly meetings and one-off events. Every effort has been made to be accurate, but please check information with event organisers, especially with changing Covid levels. Wed 1st Aongatete Forest Project working bee. Top of Wright Road. 9am-12.30pm. 1st and 3rd Wednesday morning of the month. Visit aongateteforest.org/join.

Wed 1st Waihī Beach FOCUS Group 10am at Waihī Beach RSA. Interesting speakers, interesting conversation and of course interesting people. Every 1st Wednesday. Wed 1st Kati Chat New to town? Join us for morning tea and invited speakers. Every 1st Wednesday, 10am The Arts Junction, 36 Main Rd, Katikati. Ph 549 5250. Wed 1st Seniors supports, allowances and rights advisory service. The Old Library, Ōmokoroa 10am-4pm. Every 1st Wednesday. No appointment necessary. Thu 2nd Ōmokoroa Peninsula Club 9.30am. 1st Thursday of the month at the Ōmokoroa Community Church (excl Dec/Jan). Contact John Owens 021 822 127 or Fred Hartley 548 1939. Thu 2nd Boomerang Bags Katikati sew reusable fabric community shopping bags. Contact Jizzy on 549 2337 or txt Robyn on 021 1584038 to join or donate fabric. 1st and 3rd Thursday at Katikati College Fabric Tech Room from 3.30-5.30pm. Sat 4th Western Bay Crop Swap. Swap surplus produce. 10-11am. 1st Saturday of the month. Project Generate, 14 Jocelyn St, Katikati. Call 549 4522 or txt 027 472 1112. Sun 5th December Movie: Ammonite at the boutique Junction Theatre, 36 Main Road, Katikati. 1.30pm. Tickets $10 / $7.50 Gold Card. Ph 07 549 1658. Sun 5th Katikati Folk Open Mic 3pm every 1st Sunday of the month. Blackboard (open mic) session at Forta Leza, 2656 Main Highway, Aongatete.

Tue 7th Book Buzz Come and share your favourite reads with other book lovers. 10am on the 1st Tuesday at Pātuki Manawa.

Sat 11th Wander Dogs Walk 10am at Puketoki Reserve, Whakamārama. For more info visit westernbay.govt.nz/wanderdogs

Tue 7th Ōmokoroa Community Food Bank Drive 6.30-8.30pm. Volunteers will be collecting door to door. Donations of non-perishable goods, toiletries and hygiene products appreciated.

Sun 12th Sunday Scribblers Working on memoirs. Fun writing exercises to warm up. 2nd Sunday of each month 11am12.30pm 73 Wills Road, Katikati Ph Gaye 5771753 or 0272748753 email gayehemsley@gmail.com

Wed 8th Ōmokoroa Business Network meeting. 9am on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. Contact omokoroabusinessnetwork@gmail.com for details. Wed 8th Ōmokoroa & Districts Lions Club 6pm at Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall on the 2nd Wednesday of the month. Contact Keith and Rosemary Searle on 548 2117. Wed 8th Katikati Herb Society Every 2nd Wednesday at 7pm at St Paul’s church. Contact Fiona 022 684 5178. Thu 9th Friends of Puketoki Trapping/checking every 2nd Thursday. Meet at Leyland Road carpark. Call John Budden 548 1180 or Terry Edwards 552 6222. Thu 9th Katikati Genealogy Group meets on the 2nd Thursday at the Presbyterian Church Hall, 1 Mulgan Street at 1.30pm. $5. New members welcome. Contact Jeanette 027 348 3259. Thu 9th Te Puna Heartlands Three Waters open meeting Te Puna Memorial Hall 7pm. Give your feedback to the Te Puna Community Plan. Contact Howard 027 5525 015. Fri 10th Family Planning appointments 10am-4pm. To book call 578 8539. Katikati Midwives Rooms, 14 Jocelyn Street. Every other Friday. See familyplanning.org.nz

Mon 6th U3A Art Group 10am-noon every 1st and 3rd Monday at Waihī Bowling Club. $2. Bring your own materials. Contact Jose Jebb 027 457 0242.

Fri 10th Bethlehem Night Market every 2nd Friday from 5.30-8.30pm at Bethlehem Hall. Facebook: cnmbethlehem or contact Jen on 021 672 281 cnmbethlehem@gmail.com.

Mon 6th Bethlehem/Te Puna Lions Club at Te Puna Community Centre Hall, Tangitū Road. 1st and 3rd Monday evenings from 6.00pm. Contact Colin 576 9110.

Sat 11th Katikati Lions Moggies Market 8am-noon War Memorial Hall, Main Road. 2nd Saturday. Crafts, books, plants & more. Call Sharon 022 318 0196 or Lois 021 131 3167.

| Lizard News | December 2021

Sun 12th Community Carol Concert 7pm Ōmokoroa Community Church. Mon 13th-Mon 29th Santa’s Grotto Katikati Arts Junction, Main Road, Katikati. Mon-Fri 9am-4pm (exc stats). Festive lights, music and displays. Entry by koha. Wed 15th Aongatete Forest Project working bee. Top of Wright Road. 9am-12.30pm. 1st and 3rd Wednesday morning of the month. Visit aongateteforest.org/join Wed 15th Ōmokoroa Acoustic Jam The Old Library Ōmokoroa 7pm. Play, sing, enjoy. Gold coin donation. Refreshments available. Every 3rd Wednesday. Contact Heather 027 477 6877 or Trish 548 0753. Thu 16th Boomerang Bags Katikati Sew reusable fabric community shopping bags. Contact Jizzy on 549 2337 or txt Robyn on 021 1584038 to join or donate fabric. 1st and 3rd Thursday at Katikati College Fabric Tech Room from 3.30-5.30pm. Fri 17th Death Cafe 1.30-3pm at Katikati Community Centre, every 3rd Friday of the month. We talk openly about death and dying, how we experience end of life and the fear, grief and questions that come with it. Fri 17th Thank Whakamārama It’s Friday 3rd Friday of the month from 6-9 pm. All welcome. Bring your dinner and meet the community. Whakamārama Hall. Sat 18th Katikati Artisan Market 9am1pm Chrome Cafe, 3 Wharawhara Road, Katikati. 3rd Saturday of the month. Sun 19th Community Carols 11am at Ōmokoroa Sports Pavilion – C3 Church. Sun 19th Katikati Folk Club Jam sessions 5pm 3rd Sunday of the month. Informal jam sessions at Forta Leza, 2656 SH2, Aongatete.

Sun 19th Community Carol Sing with Katikati Brass band and Katikati Singers. 6pm at Settlers’ Hall, hosted by Ōmokoroa Baptist Church. Sun 19th Friendship Force Ōmokoroa Setters’ Hall 3rd Sunday evening of the month. Ph Jonathan on 572 2091.

Mon 20th U3A Art Group 10am-noon every 1st and 3rd Monday at Waihī Bowling Club. $2. Bring your own materials. Contact Jose Jebb 027 457 0242. Mon 20th Bethlehem/Te Puna Lions Club at Te Puna Community Centre Hall, Tangitū Road, Te Puna (Behind the Tennis Courts). 1st and 3rd Monday evenings from 6pm. Contact Colin 576 9110. Tue 21st Book Buzz Share your favourite reads with other book lovers. 10am every 3rd Tuesday at Ōmokoroa Library. Tue 21st Innovation Garden Club 1.30-3pm every 3rd Tuesday. Waihī Beach RSA. Contact 027 289 7674 or innovationgardenclub@gmail.com Wed 22nd Ōmokoroa Business Network meeting. 9am on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. Contact omokoroabusinessnetwork@gmail.com for details. Thu 23rd Probus Club of Ōmokoroa 9.30-11.30am at Ōmokoroa Setters’ Hall every 4th Thursday of the month. Contact Wavyne 548 1233 or Jean 548 2239. Fri 24th Family Planning appointments 10-1pm and drop-in 1.30-4pm. To book call 578 8539. Katikati Midwives Rooms 14 Jocelyn Street, Katikati. Every 2nd Friday. See familyplanning.org.nz Christmas Eve 24th Christmas Carols at the Andertons, 6pm Ōmokoroa Domain, Harbour View Road entrance corner. Slotcar Club Ōmokoroa to race club class saloons. Controller and cars will be provided for all drivers. Contact Steve Wall on 021 163 2055 for dates/times. Merry Christmas to our wonderful community.

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Council oﬀices

You can contact us 24/7 every day of the year

Council libraries and service centres: Closing at 11am on 24 December and reopening at 9am on 5 January. Barkes Corner oﬀice: Closing at midday on 24 December and reopening at 8am on 5 January.

Call: 0800 926 732 westernbay.govt.nz Email: customer.service@westernbay.govt.nz @westernbaycouncil

Find all essential summer services information online

westernbay.govt.nz/summerinfo Happy holidays and we hope you enjoy your summer in the Western Bay of Plenty!

December 2021 | Lizard News |

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Learn to be a lifeguard Works for Kōtuku Reserve aihī Beach Lifeguard Services provides a huge range of services and opportunities for our community. In addition to providing patrols October to Easter at three points along our beautiful beach so you can ‘Swim Between the Flags’, our Search and Rescue Squad and Rescue Watercraft (jet ski) patrols ensure the whole of our 70km coast is looked after. We are looking for new candidates to train and become surf lifeguards for this season. If you are 14 years and older (no age is too old!) you can qualify as a Surf Lifeguard or Patrol Support, if you’re not as strong in the water. Contact us now to secure a spot in the next intake. This is a wonderful addition to every young person’s CV as well as offering transferrable skills welcomed by employers. Giving and offering your time and skill to help the community will reward you many times over. The feel-good factor cannot be underestimated. Join our Rookie programme from 12

years of age and learn the skills of lifeguarding with a lifeguard mentor over the summer. This is a wonderful programme, mentored by our own lifeguards. Come down for coffee, refreshments and delicious food at The Deck where you can enjoy our stunning views while knowing you’re supporting lifeguarding services. You can also sponsor a lifeguard! It costs the Club $7,000 to train a lifeguard, provide all the additional first aid training, rescue boat training and equipment. Help us to train more lifeguards this summer by sponsoring a lifeguard for $250. All our sponsors receive social membership for the Club. For more information contact us on www.waihibeachlifeguards.co.nz, via Facebook: @waihibeachsurflifesavingclub or by phone on 07 863 5108. The Club is located at 2 Beach Rd, North End, on the beach. Article supplied.

Lifeguards out on the water, patrolling over summer. PHOTO: Supplied.

ADVERTORIAL

ehicle access to Kōtuku Reserve’s pontoon is temporarily unavailable from the end of November as repair works to the rock seawall get underway. From Monday 22nd November contractors Fulton Hogan started repairs in an effort to prevent ongoing erosion along the roadway. It’s anticipated works will be completed by Friday 17th December. Vehicle access to the reserve’s pontoon is closed until then. Western Bay Council’s Scott Parker says repairs will help prevent the under-

mining of the driveway between the boat ramp and the pontoon. The pontoon itself remains open for use but will only be accessible by pedestrians from the Plummers Point Road track at the northern end, not via the reserve entrance driveway. The boat ramp may also have restricted access at times during the seawall repair works. “We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause to everyone, but doing these works now means we will have it completed this side of Christmas,” says Scott.

Garden Ramble a winner By Rod Calver

he Tall Poppy sponsored Katikati Garden Ramble was a very well attended event on the weekend of 6th and 7th November. The whole Katikati Community will be better off, with Rotary able to plough Garden Ramble proceeds back into the projects it funds in the district. Never before has a Garden Ramble been organised with so many chances to win prizes. There were Early Bird prizes for those that purchased their tickets by the 30th of October. These have now been drawn and the lucky winners are below. Corten steel garden sculptures by Dennis Walter: Wilma Foster and Jerry Payne. Ceramic pots with Ficus tree donated by Grower Direct: Joanne Knight and Dorothy Moore. Tūī Garden Products: Sylvie Wilkinson, Jenny Purser, Kim Van Raalte and Karn Tourelle. Christmas cake made by gardener Delwyn Rientjes: Helen Bosson.

During the Garden Ramble attendees also had the opportunity to win fabulous spot prizes donated by Tūī Garden Products. These prizes were given out to lucky winners on Saturday and Sunday of the ramble. The major Sponsor Tall Poppy Real Estate donated a wonderful $500 Palmers Garden Centre voucher to a lucky visitor or a gardener who was to be drawn from those who registered. Chair of the organizing committee Toni Millar says “this is what is going to set the Katikati Ramble head and shoulders above other similar events. We have also never before had so many gardens in the district open all on one weekend. It really does mean that to do justice to the gardens, attendees should be planning to set both Saturday and Sunday aside”. On Saturday, guests had the opportunity to attend an hour-long sustainability workshop at the very sustainable garden of Jizzy and Mike Green. Another added attraction was a display by the Katikati Floral Art group at Diane Hart’s garden on Willoughby Road.

Your dentists with a diﬀerence

Lavena Oﬃcer

avena is a dental assistant at ER Dental Omokoroa. She enjoys the hands-on nature of her job, her favourite part being restorative work, such as crowns. “When we have the opportunity to do transformations, seeing our patients’ reaction to their new smile is so rewarding”, she says, speaking not only for herself but the entire team. Although Lavena commutes to work, coming from a small town herself she appreciates the sense of comfort the Omokoroa community brings. Growing up in Katikati, she spent a fair bit of time in Omokoroa when she was younger too. “I love it here”, she sums up. Please note our business hours over the holidays CLOSED 24 Dec 2021 - 9 Jan 2022 23.12. and 10.1. regular business hours from 8am - 5pm

This column is brought to you by ER Dental Omokoroa

| Lizard News | December 2021

The 2021 ramble included the Harris garden on Sharp Road. PHOTO: Supplied.

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Community breakfasts in Katikati

Ōmokoroa Community Tennis Club By Therese Temple ess than six weeks till Christmas, so time to get that racquet out and join our tennis club. Perfect weather for tennis and with our ‘book a court’ system it couldn’t be easier to plan a game. Come along and dress up in your finest Christmas garb on the 11th December at 2pm to celebrate a little festive cheer with the club’s Christmas party and join in some fun tennis. Best dressed gets a prize! We will also be handing out trophies for this year’s winners of our tournaments. We are encouraging any newbies to turn up at 5pm on a Tuesday evening for an hour before our official club day starts. Obviously, you are welcome to stay for the club night but if you’d just like to try out the club someone will be there to greet you. Our other club day is

on a Saturday starting at 2pm. We now have ladies singles on Friday morning at 9am if you’d like to change it up from playing doubles. Lots of fun and good for your tennis game. Jeff Warren is running a mixed doubles night every month so if you’re keen, get in touch with Jeff on 021 109 9668. It’s loads of fun and we may be filling in the Thursday nights in-between with different tennis events. Watch this space. We will have held our ‘Love Tennis’ event by the time you read this, so for those who turned up I hope you enjoyed it. Soon we will have stairs leading up to the Pavilion so the club can make more use of this facility. It will be great to watch the tennis from this vantage point. Have a safe and happy Christmas and New Year.

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says Angela. “The Katikati Drop-In Community Breakfast aims to overcome these barriers.” Shower facilities and toiletries are offered as well as a pick-up and drop-off from home service for people who don’t have transport. “To boost the vaccination rate for Katikati and Western Bay, we are also hosting occasional pop-up vaccination clinics operated by BOPDHB,” says Angela. “Each person who is vaccinated receives a free meat pack (or non-meat alternative).” The Katikati Community Breakfast is a collaboration between Katikati Community Centre, Katikati Reach Out Trust, Katikati Christian Foodbank, Katikati Rotary, Katikati Taiao, Chrome Collective and Katikati Lions with volunteers from each organisation helping to ensure the breakfasts run smoothly.

Multiple groups are collaborating to provide community breakfasts in Katikati. PHOTOS: Supplied.

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Local businesses have shown their support by donating food and appliances. “We’d love some more volunteers to help out, and we appreciate donations of funds or food items,” says Angela. If you want to volunteer or donate to the community breakfasts, phone Angela on 020 4070 4426 or 07 549 0399. Article supplied.

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Feedback from attendees has been positive, with one local saying they “ate like a king.” “We have several regulars now and want to encourage more people to attend. It’s a great way to meet people in our community and build relationships,” says Angela. “Kids are welcome with their parents.” The breakfasts came about from a need identified by the Katikati Covid response team during the last lockdown. “The biggest challenges for Katikati whānau during Covid lockdown 2021 were around food poverty and mental health including loneliness and social isolation,”

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very Thursday between 7.30 and 8.30am, a hearty cooked breakfast is served up to the community by volunteers and various community organisations at the Baptist Church in Katikati. “The breakfast is provided for anyone in the Katikati community, no matter what their situation. It’s a chance for people in the community to come together, share kai (food) and good company in a safe and supportive environment,” says Angela Wallace, Breakfast Coordinator and Community Connector for the Katikati Community Centre.

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Te Puna Playcentre: Join the journey By Sam Keller Full-time dad, part-time GP e Puna Playcentre, 16th of November 2021, a beautiful spring morning with volcanoes erupting in the sandpit, boat building in the carpentry corner, impressionist fingerpainting, a fresh herb and flower sensory station, books galore at the morning tea table, sunflower planting and dinosaurs hiding and seeking, but only three excited children to enjoy it all. The kids still had a blast but for us parents, it was sad to see two-thirds of the children disappear overnight with the vaccine mandate coming into effect this week. We know that it has been heartbreaking for those families who have had to leave as well. Those of us who remain have been reflecting on the divisiveness the Covid-19 pandemic has brought about and how we can bring the focus back to where it should be – the future – our children. I attended Te Puna Playcentre from infancy until starting at primary school and so I have a strong sense of connection to the place. I am also passionate about the core Playcentre

model – being able to be actively involved in all aspects of the running of your child’s early education centre as a parent is a privilege and a pleasure. Obviously, this involves time, energy and emotional commitments but many hands make lighter work. Funding for our Playcentre is largely dependent on the number of enrolled children who attend our sessions, and this is among the reasons we endeavour to grow our roll as we look forward to 2022. Expenses aside, our focus is on creating a relaxed but vibrant family collective to nourish and support the children and the parents, and on this note we would welcome new families to join in the journey. For more information about our philosophy please visit www.playcentre.org.nz. If you are interested in checking out Playcentre or becoming a member, please pop by for a visit on Tuesdays from 9am to 1pm. We are located at 225 Te Puna Road, next to Te Puna School. You can also contact us by email: te.puna@playcentre.org.nz. Playcentre will close during the summer holidays but term 1 will begin at the end of January.

Emilio Keller-Franco (3) learning through play at Te Puna Playcentre. PHOTO: Supplied.

Gift the joy of borrowing this holiday season

By Jo Hollingsworth t Ōmokoroa Toy Library, we’re all about play. We have over 400 toys, games, puzzles, outdoor play equipment and so much more! Having recently extended our range to cater for children from newborn to nine years of age, we're constantly adding new toys to our fantastic collection. For a very reasonable annual membership fee, you can access an amazing range of quality new and classic toys at the right stage for your children, whilst also minimising clutter, reducing un-

Omokoroa OPEN 9am - 12pm Mon Thurs Fri Behind Settlers Hall, 334 Omokoroa Rd

Would your kids love some messy play fun but you don’t want the mess?

Come along to Playcentre for a morning of FREE PLAY and exploration of the senses

wanted toys going to landfill and lessening the need to purchase new toys. So if you’re worried about all the toys that will come into your house this Christmas, consider a Toy Library Membership for the tamariki in your whānau. They’ll have new toys to play with all year round – and the novelty never wears off. Plus, you can hire those really big toys, the ones you don’t want or need around the house all the time. Gift a year’s worth of toys for the price of one, and it’ll be like Christmas every two weeks.

Te Puna

What makes us unique? - Stay and play with your tamariki - Watch them learn and grow - Meet local parents, make friends, become part of your local community

omokoroa@playcentre.org.nz

OPEN Tuesday 9am-1pm term time 225 Te Puna Road, Te Puna 5525153 | tepuna@playcentre.org.nz

| Lizard News | December 2021

Cutting Bar OM O KO ROA’ S N EW

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We offer various membership options, with gift vouchers also available, so there’s something to suit every family. Join before Christmas and you could have a selection of toys for over the Christmas and New Year holidays. Pop in for a chat and have a look around. We’re open Saturday’s 9.30 to 11.00am, located in the Mushroom House behind the Settlers’ Hall at 334 Ōmokoroa Road. Or for more information, visit us at www.omokoroatoylibrary.co.nz or follow us on Facebook.

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Reaping sustainable benefits By Ellen White pring is definitely here at Te Puna Community Kindergarten. Our fruit trees in the orchard are in full blossom, and we are seeing signs of fruit already – it is going to be a bumper plum season. The children have been getting involved with our worm farm, and just this week, we have harvested

Harvesting our crops. PHOTOS: Supplied.

worm tea. This has been diluted, and the children have spread it all over our fruit and citrus trees as well as our flower bed to help the growing process. This has been an amazing way for the children to see their food scraps go full circle, become worm food and then use the worms’ byproduct to help grow new food. Such a great learning opportunity to take part in and add to the children’s knowledge around growing and harvesting our own food. A strong part of our kindergarten philosophy is manaakitanga which is to extend aroha (love and compassion) to others. This morning some children picked a massive crop of strawberries from our garden and thought our wonderful neighbour Farmer Burr would like to eat them. So that afternoon, the children and the

Preparing the worm tea to feed our food.

Ready to visit Farmer Burr with our gift.

teachers walked up the hill to visit him and deliver his gift, a bowl of red strawberries. Oh yum! Feel free to come and visit our kindergarten, where our teachers are all fully qualified. We are a rural kindergarten based at 17C Minden Road, Te Puna, in a beautiful natural learning environment. Our kindergarten promotes sustainability, and we value our strong relationships with our local community. The ages of our children start at 2 years to 5 years old. We are very whānau/family orientated and encourage your involvement. Come and visit us at 17C Minden Road, Te Puna. Ph 552 5736. The kettle is always on.

Get ready for puppy and kitten season By July Hebbel Tauranga, Te Puna, Katikati and Pāpāmoa Village Vets ummertime also means puppy and kitten season. Along with the excitement and cuteness of the new furry or fluffy addition, also comes plenty of responsibility, hard work and most probably a handful of frustrations along the way. If you are thinking of adding a new pet to your household, or have recently acquired one, it’s important to educate yourself on your responsibilities. Our pets obviously need plenty of love, care and affection, but good intentions also need to go hand in hand with plenty of sound knowledge. Our tips below will hopefully make the first year a smoother one.

It is strongly recommended that all puppies and kittens be fully vaccinated, as this will help protect them from potentially fatal diseases. They will require rounds of vaccinations, starting at eight weeks, then 12 and finally 16 weeks of age. At a vaccination appointment, puppies and kittens receive a full health check. If you don’t plan to breed your puppy or kitten, there are good medical and behavioural reasons for desexing. We strongly recommend speying and neutering. Puppies and kittens are very vulnerable and are completely reliant on their owners to take care of them. A puppy or kitten’s long term behaviour is influenced by their parents’ characteristics, their environment and what they are exposed to during their critical ‘socialisa-

Kitten and Puppy • Great discounts and freebies when you vaccinate your puppy and kitten with us • Dec 13 2021 – March 31 2022 • Our kitten and puppy packs make providing the best care for your kitten or puppy simple and aﬀordable

tauranga papamoa village katikati te puna www.bopvets.co.nz |

/taurangavets

0800 VETS BOP (0800 838 72 67)

Tauranga

Katikati

Te Puna

424 Cameron Rd

2 Sheffield St

15C Minden Rd

tion period’. This period is between 3-12 weeks in puppies and 2-7 weeks in kittens. Therefore as a new owner, you have a big effect on their adult behaviour. Putting some thought into what you are feeding your new pet is part of giving them a great start to a long life. At this young age, they are growing very fast and getting the correct balance of nutrients, vitamins and minerals is essential. If fed poor quality foods, they may fail to thrive, be more susceptible to disease, and could have permanent issues later in life. Regular flea and worm treatments are very important, particularly in young animals. If untreated they will almost certainly suffer from parasitism, which can make them seriously ill, and some of these parasites can cause disease in humans.

Microchipping and registration is quick and painless and ensures your pet’s safety, and is a council requirement for dogs. Microchipping means that if your pet goes missing, they will quickly be identified as belonging to you. This can be done at the time of vaccination and is just another simple procedure. Tauranga, Te Puna, Katikati and Pāpāmoa Village Vets’ Puppy and Kitten Promotion is starting on 13th December. If you have a new puppy or kitten, give us a call or come in and see us. Not only will we get all your vaccinations sorted, we will talk you through everything you need to know about being an owner of a puppy or kitten. Our Kitten and Puppy packs include discount vouchers for 20% off de-sexing, discount vouchers on selected food and flea treatment, plus lots more.

MIKE EDWARDS MOTORHOMES 33 Holyoake Terrace, Lynley Park, Omokoroa

Specialising in low-voltage electrical and electronic systems • • • • • • • •

Solar power, with MPPT controllers, house batteries etc Charging systems from 230V power and vehicle alternator Low current consumption L.E.D. lighting Electric steps, reversing cameras, sine wave inverters Satellite television systems for free-to-air and Sky Tank level monitors, gas detectors Roof vents, locker doors, awnings Modifying layout, cupboards, drawers and benches

021 550 934 MandDEdwards@xtra.co.nz

December 2021 | Lizard News |

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Effective expert advice By Noelene Taylor aking the advice of freelance wildlife biologist, Cam Speedy, has helped our volunteers preempt the summer predator breeding season in The Blade. After attending a talk in October by Cam Speedy about fine-tuning traps and paying attention to where they are placed, how they are set up, even how they smell to predators, volunteer Bill

Reeves shifted a DOC 250 stoat trap from a damp, neglected spot in the bush to much more likely spot on a dry, open, former tramline. This shift of only about 20 metres distance had an effect almost straight away when he trapped a mature female ferret, followed by a large male rat. These predators, had they been free to breed, would have produced many young and continued to be a threat to bird and insect life. The extra tasks required to monitor

the results of our trapping around the Blade include laying out tunnels with an inked, baited card insert. The tunnels are left out overnight and will record the number and species of animals who travel through, leaving their tracks to be counted. Recently, volunteers John Rowlandson and Craig Bettjeman put out 50 tunnels in two key areas. The following morning they found just one rat track was visible in all the tunnels. Colin Hewens, the founder of Friends

of the Blade, says these are the best results he has seen and is sure it reflects the dedicated and valuable work of all the volunteers. Paying attention to detail around the way traps are set and maintained is the best way to ensure they do an effective job in the bush. Experts in predator control who can share their experience are a great resource for encouraging volunteers to work smarter and see results.

A time to take stock

By Jacques Vannoort of Kingfisher Trustlaw earty Christmas greetings to all readers in the Western Bay of Plenty where sunshine greets us almost every morn. May it bring a smile to your face too! Here are some simple legal protection measures to contemplate over the holiday season: Firstly, set up a last will for yourself as it is so uncertain and annoying for those you leave behind when you don’t have one. Save them the hassle. Have you given enduring power of attorney for personal matters (sickness) and property matters (finances) to your partner or spouse or other trusted person? It will benefit you if you have done so. If you have given a loan to someone in your family or to friends this year, then please get them to record it in writing with key information: amount, parties

names, date, possible interest rate and when or how repayment is to take place. Have both parties sign it and get it witnessed and keep a copy. Your children will thank you for your foresight later. If you have set up a trust, do all the above, and ensure that you have also set up a memorandum of wishes. This will ensure that future trustees will follow your personal wishes for the trust in the future. Finally, let the beneficiaries of your trust know that a trust is in existence. You don’t have to give any further details initially if you don’t want to. Just making your family aware of the trust is enough. In conclusion, let your co-trustees know about the above steps and in some cases involve them. It is much easier if you are all on the same page. I wish you all a wonderful holiday season and remember that you can contact me at any time if you would like more detail on these matters.

KINGFISHER TRUST LAW OFFICE TAURANGA

JACQUES VANNOORT (LLM)

Happy Christmas

Barrister & Solicitor Jacques, who is our trust specialist, advises on: The use of Family Trusts after introduction of the new Trust Act in 2021. “Much has changed in this field of law. Let me show you how to be a prudent Trustee and prepare yourself for the challenges.” Call Jacques at his oﬃce to book in a complimentary interview in Tauranga or at your home or business. You can also call us to set up a new Trust, or to have a Review of your existing Family Trust.

Bill Reeves had immediate success trapping a ferret. PHOTO: Supplied.

Help bring back our native birds Join the Friends of The Blade volunteers and adopt a trap line. CALL COLIN ON 07 552 6771

Whakamārama Hall regular events Library Thursdays 9am – noon (during term), and every third Friday 6-8.30pm. Visit whakalibrary.librarika.com to see our great range of books. A real eclectic mix!

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 Kathleen on Kathleenfaulls@gmail.com for more information.

TWiF Thank Whakamārama It’s Friday takes place every 3rd Friday of the month from 68.30pm. Everyone is welcome. Bring your dinner, your family and a bottle or two and enjoy a gathering with neighbours and friends. Find out what's going on in the community and meet fellow Whakamārama locals.

Phone now on 021 830 308 or write to him at kingfishertrustlaw@gmail.com

WHakamārama EmaiLS ª Ú Þ Å å ĥ

Community news including police reports, lost and found animals, items for sale, excess fruit and vegetables, and rentals wanted. To receive these email: rossroad@eol.co.nz

HaLL bOOkiNGS To book the hall, call Suaree Borrell, the booking oﬃcer, on 021 570 554 or email whakamarama01@gmail.com. We also have tables and chairs available at very reasonable rates.

| Lizard News | December 2021

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Whakamārama making and recording history By Matthew and Liz Farrell

he official re-opening of the upgraded Whakamārama Community Centre - fondly known as the Hall was celebrated on Sunday 31st October alongside the launch of a history book. During the speeches, committee chair Mike Carter honoured Peter Bidois for donating the hall land to the community more than fifty years ago - as well as those who gave thousands of volunteer hours in the 1960s and 70s - and Clive Foster for his endowment that supported the hall for many years. Mike says hall alterations were mooted in 2013, followed by a survey in 2015. Five years later, community working bees extended the old storeroom, built the deck and veranda and installed doors. A fundraising drive then led to a new kitchen and storeroom, toilets and drainage, windows and the structural upgrade. TECT’s $175,000 grant gave the project momentum before Lotteries granted $372,110. Again an army of local volunteers contributed to make the build a reality, he says. Lawrence Birks then spoke on behalf of the Whakamārama History Group, detailing donations of materials and the volunteer labour roster which built the original hall as well as all the hurdles overcome with finances and planning. Lawrence then changed hats to speak on behalf of the team whose efforts helped to produce the new history book. 13 years of research, writing, editing and production has led to a 170-page book incorporating three key areas: Pirirākau tangata whenua, the timber milling period, and land development for pastural farming through to land subdivision. Whakamārama Community Incorporated committee member Anne Mackersey, says as Whakamārama has grown, it became apparent there was a lack of information available for the residents to understand previous activities in the district. “When WCI was established in 2008, understanding the district’s history was identified as being of significant importance. “Initial work to capture stories and information involved interviews throughout the country of elderly past residents or descendants of previous residents. “The people interviewed remembered life here as far back as the timber milling and early farming years in the 1920s and 30s. Sadly the majority of them have since passed away. It makes these interviews all the more valuable and indeed they form

the backbone of the book.” These first-hand accounts and a plethora of visual material will allow the reader to gain a real insight into life in Whakamārama over the course of the twentieth century. The first section of the book appeared to be the least known about. February 2017 marked 150 years since the local hapū, Pirirākau, had their land confiscated and were displaced to reside in the Te Puna area. Following local commemorations organised by Pirirākau, stronger relationships were established between the local community and Pirirākau. Graham Bidois Cameron wrote the background of Pirirākau for the publication, and Robert McGowan connected the reality of traditional living in the Whakamārama environment for Māori. The second section of the book, timber milling, was first to be researched and completed, as there were a number of elderly contacts who were able to tell the story of timber milling at Whakamārama first-hand. Their knowledge of this period at Whakamārama - a period that transformed the district significantly really enriched the book. The third section of the book includes a unique collection of photographs accompanied by stories of local families and their challenges, entrepreneurship and collective ability to transform the district to what it is today. TECT funded $7,200 to assist with collation and design for printing. WCI’s Katie Rogers says the work has been done by six local residents and Pirirākau representatives. “This book has been put together by volunteers, none of whom have had the time to dedicate themselves 100% to the book,” says Rogers. “It has been a real community and wider committee effort. The design and layout were done by Lisa Kemp from Creative Clicks, who grew up in the district and went to school here. “A few years ago we ran out of funding, so we were overjoyed when TECT’s grant allowed us to push on and finish the book. We are extremely grateful for other sponsors, including Western Bay of Plenty District Council, Lotteries and Legacy.” TECT Trustee Peter Blackwell attended on the day and says as a local trust, TECT is keen to support such community-led projects preserving local history. “It isn’t often we get an opportunity like this to support a project led by the community, producing such a thorough and well-researched book that preserves local

Kōwhai trees were planted to commemorate the day. L-R: Mayor Garry Webber, Graham Bidois Cameron - contributor of the Pirirākau history and foreword, Dennis Skelton - a former principal of Whakamārama School who was at the original hall blessing, and Kelly Bidois - son of land donor Peter Bidois. PHOTO: Matthew Farrell.

history. It was an application worthy of our support. “It will provide an excellent educational resource for local schools, and with copies at the libraries and the Community Hall, as well as copies available to be purchased, people across our community can learn about the history of Whakamārama. It will

allow those living there to gain a greater sense of place and a better understanding of what has taken place around them.” To buy a copy for $40, email katierogers@outlook.co.nz or text 021 607 717. Delivery is free within Whakamārama. WCI’s Kiwibank account is 38-9006-0885859-00.

L-R: History Group members David Riley, Margaret Gainfort, idea originator Margaret Mackersey, Anne Mackersey, Lawrence Birks, and Katie Rogers. Below: History Group member Cyril O’Callaghan (absent), and Cyril’s daughter Lisa Kemp (absent), who did the book's design work. PHOTOS: Supplied.

December 2021 | Lizard News |

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Making a MARK at Katikati College e are proud of our students who continue to fulfil our MARK values of Manākitanga, Āko, Rangatiratanga and Kotahitanga. Manākitanga means putting others before ourselves. Āko: Teachers and students learning together. Sharing ideas, helping each other with learning. Rangatiratanga: Managing ourselves and showing leadership. Being in the right place at the right time. Having the right equipment. Completing all our

W Lola Meeking-Coad Ex Katikati Primary School The amazing connections between teachers and students have been especially great in lockdown when we needed support from our subject teachers.

Aylish Dunlop Ex Katikati Primary School I am working towards my dream of obtaining a scholarship to a D1 American university in 2023. The support the school has given me has made this goal of mine achievable.

Kaimai Law K A T I K A T I

• Property Sales & Purchases

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Curtis Moore Ex Pahoia Primary School This school has an amazing platform to develop your academic abilities through the support of the teachers who go out of their way to make sure that you are understanding and keeping up with your schoolwork.

HARRY MADDOX JEWELLERY AND DESIGN

work to the best of our ability. Kotangitanga: Working together. Participation, collaboration, and cooperation. Here is a snapshot of a few Year 12 students who have journeyed through Katikati College from their Primary School days. Visit our website kkc.school.nz or contact reception (07) 549 0434 for enrollments or a visit, where we will help you to make your MARK!

Te Ata-a-rua Hansen Cribb Ex Waihī Beach Primary School Te Whānau Pūmanawa o Poutama is for anyone who wants to be in an environment with manākitanga and whanaungatanga. It’s an environment that helped me grow, and it made me be proud of my tūpuna and people. Ahakoa he iti he pounamu, even though it is small, it’s a treasure.

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| Lizard News | December 2021

Anton Turnwald Ex Pahoia Primary School I have found that whatever your dreams and aspirations are, Katikati College has so many different opportunities and pathways to help you get to where you need to be.

Thomas Swain Ex Waihī Beach Primary School There are many opportunities with different courses such as engineering and mechanics. With this work experience and the help of fellow teachers you are able to pursue your desired career.

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Matahui School leadership camp

By Kristine Aitchison ast month, the Matahui School Year 7 and 8 students participated in a leadership camp on the Whanganui River. This is an annual event, run by the independent primary school, where students experience a week-long kayaking trip down the river. The bull-boat canoes carry only enough gear to fit inside the waterproof barrel to stop and camp for the night at various locations. Teamwork and collaboration are skills embedded in the school’s Education Outside the Classroom programme. Throughout the week the students navigated rapids, worked as a team, rescued fellow students who had fallen in the water, set up their own tents, explored nature and created memories that will last a lifetime. The students were required to prepare their own meals throughout the adventure, which included a delicious

Students on their kayak trip down the Whanganui River. PHOTOS: Supplied.

hāngi on the final night. The school’s Education Outside the Classroom programme is a unique feature of the independent primary school, and in particular, the school’s camps form a core part of the programme. The camp programme was awarded the prestigious EONZ Outdoors Award in 2012. All students from Years 4-8 participate in camps, which are structured to progressively challenge and extend the students and often the parent helpers too. Matahui School offers an education that goes beyond the four walls of the classroom, and Year 7 and 8 students are given many real learning opportunities that support their preparation for college. These include enquiry-based learning projects and hands-on learning that make education fun, such as science experiments, construction, play, baking and sculpting; just to name a few. Physical education is taught with an

emphasis on skills. Students learn financial literacy and budgeting, participate in music and language studies weekly, and are encouraged to think creatively and differently. Students are taught based on their own personal learning style.

Matahui School offers a unique learning environment and is now taking enrollments for 2022. To make an appointment to enrol your child or to come and visit the school email office@matahui.school.nz or phone 07 552 0655.

Popular peonies

By Lorraine Wilks of Fragrance of Flowers eonies are like great big powderpuffs and have that ‘wow’ factor when made into a bouquet. Peonies are pleasing to the eye but they also have a delicate fragrance which makes them a double delight. Peonies are normally quite expensive because they have a short growing season and are grown and freighted up from the South Island of New Zealand. However, we are delighted to announce that we have secured some peonies at a good price for the month of December, making them very affordable. So, why not spoil yourself to peonies or treat someone else. We have only have only ordered limited numbers of peonies, which are being sold on a first-in, first served basis.

Colours available are shades of pink from pale pink through to deep pink. Hurry, these are selling quickly.

extraordinaryy opp pportuunities for extraordinary learners

Peonies make a stunning bouquet. PHOTO: Supplied.

Shared cycle and footpath south of Katikati

By Matthew Farrell aka Kotahi says it is designing a shared path for pedestrians and cyclists along State Highway 2 south of Katikati to provide a safe trail for locals and visitors. The path is intended to enable commuter cyclists and pedestrians to travel safely to and from town with separation from the highway. The agency says it anticipates local workers, backpackers and campers will use the path. Waka Kotahi hopes the shared path will make Katikati a more liveable town,

reduce costs for Council, have less impact on the environment, and lead to healthier and more productive people. There may also be recreation and economic benefits as more locals and tourists cycle between Waihī and Tauranga, linking to the Hauraki Rail Trail. The path will be 2.5m wide and 770m long and located on the western side of SH2 from Henry Road to Wharawhara Road at Seeka and Chrome Cafe. The design is being finalised, with funding yet to be confirmed for construction in the 2022/23 financial year.

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December 2021 | Lizard News |

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Ōmokoroa foreshore and walkway opened ey supporters of the Ōmokoroa Golf Club foreshore protection and community walkway project gathered to celebrate the grand opening after three years in the making. The ceremony saw Western Bay of Plenty Mayor Garry Webber speak of the history of the project and TECT Trustee Peter Blackwell mention TECT’s support, with the local trust contributing $200,000. The project started in 2019 with the Ōmokoroa Golf Club wishing to undertake foreshore protection works. Western Bay of Plenty District Council wanted to formalise and form the public walkway, cycleway, and access to the foreshore adjacent to the golf course land. Beforehand, the public had the right to walk the foreshore along the esplanade reserve. The club’s frontage linked the two Ōmokoroa Peninsular walkways; however, there was no formal path. Users generally walked the beach at low tides but walked or cycled the side of the golf course fairways during high tide. Foreshore committee member David Hughes says the project was conceived

as land retention along the foreshore due to years of erosion had become critical to the golf course. “The golf club had been concerned for years about the degree of foreshore erosion taking place, particularly in areas that directly affected play, namely tees and greens. “Over the years, there had been several attempts to mitigate this by use of planting, ad-hoc physical barriers – most of which had slowed the progress but not solved the issue. The worst affected area was the 16th tee that had been progressively eroded to the extent that the tee ground had started to fall away. “Teeing areas were being lost to the high tides when combined with windy conditions and storms and community user access to the recreational reserve that bounds the course was being compromised.” David says a storm event in January 2018 brought in sharp focus the need to act formally to protect the foreshore from further erosion and place a bund structure to protect the most vulnerable areas. “Discussions were held with Bay of Plenty Regional Council and Western

New after-school care at No 1

By Jessica Fong

n recent times it has become much more normal and in some cases essential for both parents to work in order to bring in the money due to the rising cost of living. To this end, we need somewhere to send our children outside of school hours so that we can attend our working days in full. This is what Gecko Kids is going to offer to the families of Number 1 School in the form of before school and after school care programs during term time, in addition to a holiday program to offer the same assistance to allow our community’s working families to continue working throughout the year. The name comes from our home, Ōmokoroa, land of the long lizard. We love this idea and have taken it a step

| Lizard News | December 2021

further with Gecko Kids - the smaller more playful reptiles of our growing community. We wanted a name and mascot that was going to be fun and resonate with our children - and a place they were happy to go with their friends outside of school hours. It is our intention to continue with this idea of community with occasional themed weeks of after school care where our children can learn more about our community and all our animals, local, native, and otherwise. Gecko Kids will be operating out of Number 1 school from the 29th November and is welcoming bookings now. Initial spaces will be limited so booking quickly is a must. To make a booking please visit us at geckokids.aimyplus.com or contact Jess on 021 0204 0115.

(L-R) Mayor Garry Webber, past golf board chair Fintan Downes, foreshore committee member David Hughes, and TECT Trustee Peter Blackwell.

Bay of Plenty District Council regarding what was possible led by past golf board chair Fintan Downes. “The Council wanted to protect the Precious Reserve and address the damp ground conditions to provide the community with a more enjoyable experience, and from this, the idea of a joint walkway, cycleway, and protection bund was formed. “Local firm Tiaki Engineering Consultants Ltd were engaged to provide the detailed design and partnership with the local hapū Pirirākau has provided a wellbalanced team combined with Council management of the project.” The foreshore project was completed in two stages, with a third wetland boardwalk stage under construction now. Stage One comprised work to the southern end of the foreshore alongside Precious Reserve and was funded by Ōmokoroa Golf Club, the local Community Board and Western Bay of Plenty District Council. This was completed in

The walkway on the bund. PHOTOS: Supplied.

September 2020. Stage Two of the project built a shared path on the top of a bund to link to a boardwalk and connect the Precious Reserve and Kayelene Place. This was funded by TECT’s grant and Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s Three Waters funding. Mr Hughes notes that the project completion has seen a huge increase in community groups using the walkway and enjoying the foreshore. “Western Bay of Plenty District Council have been very pleased with the public response to the project and its contribution to recreational activity on the peninsular. “The golf club has achieved its aims of protecting our main areas of erosion and storm flooding and also received increased public awareness of golfing activity. This possibly has had, and should continue to have, spin-offs in increased membership and green fee play.” Article supplied.

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November highlights of women’s golf By Sue Thomson un, friendship, community, team, competition and gratitude have been the hallmarks exemplified by the women club members of the Ōmokoroa Golf Club this past November. The month began with more than 45 women donning their best pink golfing outfits for the annual Pink Ribbon Day, raising more than $500 for the Cancer Society through raffles and donations. The following week the men of the Club joined the women for the Melbourne Cup Day celebrations. Eightyeight members enjoyed a full day of festivities, beginning with a complimentary glass of champagne and the selection of horses for the sweepstake.

Outgoing Women’s Club Captain, Diane Hughes.

Shootout Winners: L-R Wendy Harris, Gail Nicholls, Barbara Aitken.

After 18 holes of golf, a change into their Race Day clothes and late lunch, the race was on the big screen with much clapping and cheering for some, and sad faces for many others. The Shootout competition always proves to be an intensely competitive experience for those involved. Over the year, 45 women began the cumulative best nett scores competition to find the final 19 to compete. The 19 all begin the first hole, then on each subsequent hole, one golfer is eliminated through having the highest score on handicap. Eliminations of ‘chip or putt-offs’ determined by the Sheriff are tense, as no one wants to drop out. Only two reach the 18th hole to find

Bubbles for Bras

L-R Alison Badger, Jackie Brown, Heather Reynolds, Jean Furness, and Marjorie Imm with the wealth of bras donated to the Bubbles for Bras evening. PHOTO: Neil Badger.

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the winner. This year, after six gruelling hours, Gail Nicholls proudly claimed the crown with Barbara Aitken second and Wendy Harris third. This is a sponsored event, and the women thank this group for their continued support: Caci Clinic, Tall Poppy Real Estate, Ōmokoroa Dental, Bayfair, Carine Garden Centre, Ōmokoroa Pharmacy and Musa Sushi. For all of the Bay of Plenty Golf Clubs, Cherry Reehal and Carol Roper are the recipients of the Bev Caithness Memorial for the entire year’s best cumulative Silver and Bronze Stablefords, respectively. An outstanding achievement for both women. The month’s other club highlights were Anne Trappit winning the Gobblers chip off, and Deb Clark taking out the McNicol Trophy over Rae Milne. The closing day dinner and AGM are always a highlight for the women, as they celebrate another successful year. It is an evening when the women genuinely embrace the spirit of golf and friendship as they congratulate the winners and, with gratitude, thank all who put so much in behind the scenes to ensure each golf day is an enjoyable one for all members. Diane Hughes, the outgoing Club Captain, received an extended standing ovation from the women in acknowledgement and appreciation of her commitment, her unsurpassed organisation, her tireless energy and the fun she has brought to the role. With her love of the-

By Alison Badger he morning after’ is a term usually associated with over-indulgence in alcohol - but not this time! Having spent an evening among motivated, positive, engaging women, with the addition of inspiring and amusing speakers, waking up to a rainy Sunday morning was something of a comedown until the memory of a hugely successful event brought the smile back. Following the Blue September display in support of Prostate Cancer Research, October at The Old Library Ōmokoroa (TOLO) focussed on Breast Cancer Awareness. All donations received for the month will be donated to Breast Cancer research, and the secondary ‘good cause’ – Project Uplift – resulted in an amazing number of new and ‘not quite new’ bras donated, to be sent to the islands, where it is often impossible for women to access sturdy, comfortable bras. After welcoming attendees with a glass of bubbles, Heather Reynolds introduced Jean Furness of Kōtare Skincare and an Ōmokoroa resident. She shared her journey through breast cancer, explaining the

‘T

atrical drama, dress-ups and hi-jinx underlining all social activities, there has never been a dull moment in the past two and a half years. Diane created and ably led a team of brave women in a hilarious skit to conclude the evening. There was not a dry eye left in the clubrooms. The members now welcome Linley Jamieson-Hill as their new Club Captain. 2021, even with Covid restrictions and inclement weather at times, has been a very successful year for women’s golf at Ōmokoroa.

Diane Hughes on Pink Ribbon Day.

physical and emotional toll it took on both herself and her family. Her faith and positive attitude enabled her to talk with humour and even took off her bra at the end. The second speaker was Jackie Brown, a well-known Ōmokoroa wedding celebrant and proprietor of Bums, Tums and Gums Travel Group. She first engaged the group with a ‘Who Wants to be a Millionaire’ game with all questions involving women. Then she spoke of her work with ‘Changing Lanes’, a project designed to help women who, due to a range of circumstances, were in need of a helping hand to rebuild their self-confidence. Jane Miller was the lucky raffle winner of a makeover and portrait session kindly donated by award-winning local photographer Steve Brown of Black Diamond Photography. Thanks to Leveret Wines who kindly donated the ‘bubbles’ and to all who helped make the event such a success. The biggest winners of the evening are all the women who will receive the 265 bras collected at the event. Thank you all for your donations.

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Environmental conservation efforts funded and paid forward in kind ight environmental conservation groups in the Western Bay of Plenty are celebrating after approval of a TECT grant which will provide funding for two years of operating costs. The funding application was approved in September, granting $341,880. Facilitated by Bay Conservation Alliance (BCA), the application pulled together the various needs of BCA and seven of its member groups into one collective submission. The joint funding application was the second of its kind to be received by TECT, with a similar submission made by BCA in 2019. BCA is an organisation that supports community-led environmental restoration and nature conservation. The charity works to reduce the administration load on its members, supporting them with tasks like financial management, communications and marketing, volunteer recruitment and management, fundraising, advocacy, and project management. Bay Conservation Alliance CEO Michelle Elborn says it is obvious that the back-end administration of any charitable work can be taxing. “For us to be able to offer some support to lighten the load on things like website development, funding applications, or organising volunteer systems, means the group volunteers can enjoy the hands-on stuff more.” Elborn says that having one application has been a game-changer. “This is such a valuable opportunity to reduce the admin burden on our member groups. By BCA coordinating one funding application on behalf of multiple groups, it becomes a win-win for everyone. “We can support our groups to understand what funding options match their needs and hopefully give TECT some further assurance their investment is well placed and supported.” Elborn notes the ease of the application process with support from TECT staff. “The criteria is clear, and while the application process is thorough, it all makes sense. Now we have traversed it a couple of times, it’s a comfortable process. The best thing is staff are very approachable and supportive, where any clarifications are required. “It feels fantastic to receive this multiyear funding a second time around.

TECT Trustee Peter Blackwell hands over the cheque to BCA and member groups. PHOTOS: Supplied.

Project Parore volunteers with weeds they have removed from the Katikati harbour margin.

Work in the environment is ongoing, and so to have certainty of project funds beyond a year is so reassuring. And again, it reduces the admin load, meaning the focus can be on the real work on the ground – so thank you, TECT.” A new initiative launched by BCA in January was the Bay Conservation Cadets – Tauira Mahi programme, which will be supported by TECT’s funding. The employment, training and development programme seeks to upskill unemployed, under-employed, or those changing career pathways whilst also delivering environmental and conservation benefits. Cadets have an employment contract and receive training in multiple areas to enable a career path into the environmental sector and the many positions that Jobs for Nature and other programmes are providing. “We are currently into our third training programme for the year, which has given us the opportunity to now work with 30 adult cadets,” says Elborn. “It’s been really inspiring to watch them

grow, with a number of them now in longer-term employment relating to conservation.” BCA also run a nature education programme in schools, where students discover how unique New Zealand is, gain an insight into many of the conservation challenges in New Zealand, and learn a set of practical conservation skills. Project Parore was another one of the successful TECT funding recipients. The project promotes sustainable catchment management across eight stream catchments from their sources in the Kaimai Forest through the foothills and lowland to their estuaries in the northern Tauranga Harbour. Key components will be the restoration of healthy soils and with measures to promote the retention of sediment, healthy pollutant-free water in the streams and, thus, healthy estuaries and a healthy harbour. A healthy harbour should host good numbers of parore. David Peters, Chair of Project Parore says Katikati lies in the centre of the project. An urban works programme there

led by Project Parore employed a ‘Katikati Environmental Activator’ who works with that community and their volunteer base. “Volunteers are an important part of our team, but the scale of the work required to meet our objectives outside town means we must develop a paid workforce who will be trained and equipped to make significant progress quickly. There are two paid staff now, and we will be hiring more soon. The Otanewainuku Kiwi Trust was another successful recipient, receiving $30,720 in funding. Hans Pendergrast, Trustee of Otanewainuku Kiwi Trust says they are planning a significant kokako translocation project and with this comes a huge amount of administration load to enable the right stakeholder engagement, consultations and permitting processes. “This is on top of the day-to-day operations for the Trust, which is all volunteer-led. So, this funding allows for a small level of paid resourcing to ensure we are efficient in this process and do not overburden our current volunteers. “The project is likely to take several years before we bring new birds into the forest, so having the assurance of twoyear funding to help the process is very welcome support.”

The approved funding across BCA groups is: Bay Conservation Alliance – Two years’ operating costs: $127,500 Friend of the Blade – Two years’ operating costs: $6,800 Maketu Ongatoro Wetland Society – Two years’ operating costs: $85,000 ARRC Trust – Two years’ operating costs: $7,800 Western Bay Wildlife Trust – Two years’ operating costs: $24,000 Te Whakakaha Trust – Two years’ operating costs/equipment purchases: $9,060 Otanewainuku Kiwi Trust – Two years’ operating costs: $30,720 Project Parore (formerly Uretara Estuary Managers) – Two years’ operating costs: $51,000

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Dog lovers walk Te Puna Quarry Park

Project Parore patrons

By Elaine Fisher wo outstanding Katikati conservationists, Rosalie Smith and Peter Maddison have become Project Parore’s first patrons. Project Parore has evolved from the Uretara Estuary Managers, an environmental group Rosalie helped to found in 2004. In 2007 Rosalie was awarded a Queen Service Medal for her services to

agricultural journalism and the community. Entomologist Peter, who moved to the Bay of Plenty in 2006, is a founding member of and a scientific advisor to Project Parore and in 2021 was awarded membership of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to conservation. Read the full story in the January edition of Lizard News.

Project Parore’s new patrons Rosalie Smith and Peter Maddison. PHOTO: Supplied.

Waste bylaw under review estern Bay of Plenty District Council is looking at how to deal with waste better in the construction and demolition sector, and at large events. This work is part of Council’s Waste Management and Minimisation Bylaw review out for public feedback. The new bylaw proposes a framework to minimise waste from events, construction, and demolition. It also addresses bylaw implementation issues to enable effective enforcement and supports Council’s Kerbside Collective waste collection service, implemented 1st July this year. Council Policy Analyst Tom Rutherford says the construction and demolition waste stream presents the next biggest opportunity to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill for the District. Waste generated from construction and demolition activities in the western Bay of Plenty sub-region creates around 9.8 percent of all waste to landfill – approximately 8,535 tonnes per year (based on a 2016 Waste Assessment). “Construction and demolition can generate substantial quantities of waste material, much of which is recoverable, such as concrete, timber, plasterboard, brick, and metal,” says Tom.

“The proposed changes to the bylaw enable a future requirement for site waste management plans. More engagement is needed with the local construction sector, to determine what types of building works should be subject to this requirement.” Council is also aware that more work needs to be done sub-regionally to identify appropriate facilities for construction and demolition waste. Council is also proposing that significant events (of more than 500 people) prepare an Event Waste Management and Minimisation Plan, to ensure improved disposal of waste. This includes the use of recyclable, compostable, and reusable material at these events to decrease the total waste sent to landfill. “These proposed changes will mean Council can provide more consistency in the way we regulate waste and removes the risk of the District becoming a dumping ground for hard to deal with waste coming from people or industries,” says Tom. Feedback on Council’s Waste Management and Minimisation Bylaw review closed Friday 26th November. Those who requested to speak to their submission will present to Councillors on Thursday 9th December.

rab your dogs and their leads – it’s time to join in the annual Western Bay Wander Dogs Summer Series event lineup. The first walk was a leisurely stroll around Te Puna Quarry Park on 6th November, shared with like-minded dog lovers. Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s Animal Services team gave out doggy bags filled with an assortment of treats and tips. Official Council Spokesdog Alfie was also there and gave pawtographs to his adoring fans. Council’s Compliance and Monitoring Manager Alison Curtis, says, “This is a great opportunity for our community of dogs and dog owners to get together and talk all things canine. “We look forward to seeing some familiar, and not so familiar faces as the summer series gets underway.” For dog owners whose furry friends are a bit shy of walking with the pack, the experienced Animal Control Officers can help, ensuring you can join the fun. Alison says, “Our wander dog walks can be a great learning experience as the team can provide practical tips for dogs

pulling on leads, improving dogs’ social manners and answering general concerns like barking, jumping up and aggression. “All you need is a dog and a lead, our team will take care of the rest.” This is the seventh year of the annual Wander Dogs Summer Series, featuring scenic walks around the District and a lineup of special events. For a full list of the walks on offer visit westernbay.govt.nz/wanderdogs Note that everyone attending must follow the appropriate Alert Level health and safety protocols. This includes scanning in using the NZ Covid Tracer app or manually signing in, using the hand sanitiser provided, wearing a face covering, and maintaining a physical distance of two metres. The events will not go ahead if there is a change in Alert Levels to Alert Level 3 or higher. The next walk is on Saturday 11th December at 10am in Puketoki Reserve, Whakamārama. Any cancellation information would be posted on Facebook. Stay up to date by registering at facebook.com/westernbaycouncil/events Article supplied.

Council’s official spokes-dog Alfie was excited to meet his mates at the Te Puna Quarry Park. PHOTO: Supplied.

Protecting your property

By Dan Hesson Ōmokoroa IT ith a recent spate of burglaries in our community, we are seeing increased demand for our online CCTV solutions. You can help keep your property safe and secure with such wireless systems. Options can include WIFI and wireless power; notifications / monitoring from your smartphone which means access from anywhere. The systems are engineered with su-

perior two-way audio and noise-cancelling features. It lets you clearly communicate with your visitors through the camera. It also comes with night vision capability that enables you to see everything even in the evening. For those of who want to see how this works, there is a short video on YouTube: search for Arlo Essential Spotlight Camera Product Video. Talk to us today about specials for local residents. Contact me on 0800 701 602 or email us at dan@omokoroait.co.nz

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Two stunning Bay homes finalists in House of the Year competition Pahoia home was named among the finalists in this year’s Lockwood House of the Year competi-

tion. The Pugh family from Pāpāmoa and a second couple from Pahoia join four other finalists from around New Zealand in the annual competition, which opened for public voting at the end of October. From seaside to lush bush, the designs of each of the houses have been crafted to make the most of their different settings. However, one consistent feature remains the same for each - the desire to take advantage of each location’s spectacular views. Having had their Pāpāmoa section for nearly 12 years before building a permanent structure on it, the number one priority for the Pugh family when designing their home was to take advantage of the site’s commanding 180-degree sea views. “For many years we holidayed in relocatable cabins that we put on the site, but once we were able to, we decided to take advantage of the views by building a two-story home that had all the living space on the top floor,” says Jo Pugh. The family also wanted the top floor of their home to be open plan to allow extended family to be able to gather and enjoy the space together.

“We wanted a fun house where we can all come together, where the grandkids can play and where we don’t have to worry about sandy feet!” says Jo. The Pahoia couple has a similar story, having lived at their current location for many years before deciding to have their previous home – also a Lockwood – relocated to enable them to build their dream home on the same site. “This is actually our third Lockwood home, we’ve always loved them, however this time we opted for the bespoke design and build option to ensure the design fitted exactly with our needs and to ensure we took advantage of our expansive view,” say the owners. The couple also ensured the design of the home was adaptable for current and future needs, with a covered alfresco area providing shade from the sun, air conditioning in both main bedrooms and a larger roof area to capture more water

The Pahoia home has a covered alfresco area with expansive views. PHOTOS: Supplied.

as the property relies on tank water. As the home is at altitude, heated concrete floors along with the excellent insulation that Lockwood Homes offer, ensure it’s warm and cosy. Both homes were built by local Lockwood contractors Seaside Homes. For 70 years, Lockwood Homes have been part of the fabric of Aotearoa New Zealand. Lockwood House of the Year provides a chance to celebrate the

longevity, outstanding performance, and flexibility of Lockwood homes, many of which have become national treasures. Lockwood House of the Year has been running for five years but only judged on a public vote since 2020. The Bay of Plenty homes are up against finalists located in Kapiti Coast, Tokoroa and Coromandel. Voting was about to close as we went to press. Article supplied.

Land plans for lifestyle blocks By Alex Eagles-Tully Area Coordinator Rural Women New Zealand

New Zealand Landcare Trust Water is the word on everyone’s lips at the moment with reports and opinions on the water reforms flooding the media. The concept that we need to safeguard our waterways did not come down in the last rain shower. New Zealand Landcare Trust (NZLT) has been knee-deep in helping landowners to protect water catchments for 25 years. Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) played a key role in the formation of the non-government organisation in 1996 when it recognised the need for an independent body to empower, rather than dictate to, communities wanting to be part of the solution to environmental degradation. Today the NZLT Board of Trustees still

includes representatives from a wide variety of organisations responsible for its formation including the Federation of Māori Authorities; Federated Farmers; Federated Mountain Clubs; Fish and Game New Zealand; Ecologic Foundation; and Royal Forest and Bird Society of New Zealand. The current RWNZ representative is President Gill Naylor. The aim of NZLT is to support and give advice, and to act as a link between government departments, agencies, care groups and landowners, from farmers and horticulturists to lifestyle block owners. While the protection of every stream is important, NZLT’s ultimate goal is to conserve entire catchments from the mountains and hills to the estuaries and lakes. It is especially keen to encourage the formation of catchment care groups around the country. These are generally made up of people who live in the area - landowners, farmers, grow-

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Environment Plans As you may be aware the Government is making it mandatory for farmers with more than 20 hectares of land, and growers with more than 5 hectares of land to produce a Farm Environment Plan (FEP) or something similar. Last year NZLT produced webinars to help those affected navigate through the maze of requirements. Landowners of less than 20ha have increasingly become part of the rural landscape over recent decades. Many lifestyle block owners farm animals, grow crops, use fertilisers, herbicides and pesticides, and have land that contributes to runoff into waterways, etc. Although lifestylers are not currently

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Council formalises transfer of Panepane Pūrākau he people of Matakana Island are one step closer to seeing ownership of the eastern end of the island officially returned to them. Haka pōwhiri and waiata from five hapū of Matakana and Rangiwaea Islands marked Western Bay of Plenty District Council formalising its commitment in writing to return the 172 hectares of land, commonly known as Panepane Pūrākau, to the local hapū. The five hapū that connect to Matakana Island are part of Ngāi te Rangi Iwi and include Ngāi Tuwhiwhia, Ngati Tauaiti, Te Ngare, Te Whānau a Tauwhao and Ngāi Tamawhariua. Council inherited the land at no cost from the Tauranga Harbour Board under the Local Government reorganisation in 1989. The signing of the deed by all those present follows Council’s unanimous decision in October 2020 to return the whenua, supported by a record 7121 public submissions out of a total of 7381 in favour. Western Bay Mayor Garry Webber says it was another emotionally charged day having worked alongside tangata whenua to explore the proposed return of ownership of Panepane Pūrākau over the past five years. “Traditionally Māori land ownership

Kaumātua Hauata Palmer and Mayor Garry Webber hongi at the signing. PHOTO: Supplied.

was not the sole right of one person and so it is only right that the land be returned not to an individual or singular group,” he adds. “We are one step closer to rectifying past wrongs through what has been a collaborative, inclusive, open working relationship with iwi and the public,” says Mayor Garry. “Not only was it the right thing to do,

but it shows that with open minds and a will to find solutions, good outcomes can be achieved for everyone.” Since Council’s October 2020 landmark decision, work has progressed on a subdivision application as well as an accretion claim for land that has slowly naturally accumulated at Panepane Pūrākau. Next steps in the process include the

Māori Land Court confirming that the Trust is the appropriate entity to receive the land. Ngāi te Rangi Iwi kaumātua Hauata Palmer appreciates that while it’s been a slow process to finalise the decision, the deed signing is a chance to celebrate the significance of Council’s decision and the collective mahi by everyone involved. He says that the journey leading to the decision by Council to return the land had been a long one, with many challenges along the way. He pays tribute to the work of Mayor Garry and the Councillors as well as staff in working with the hapū to see the return of the land. The welcome that was given to the Council delegation saw the full extent of tikanga Māori displayed, a sign of the significance of the decision and the occasion. Under the transfer agreement, a seven-hectare public reserve will be created to ensure public access to the foreshore is protected in perpetuity and an esplanade strip will follow the coast to the ocean side. This means the public will still be able to fish off the wharf, walk along the beach and use recreational areas such as water-skiing lanes. Port of Tauranga navigation aids will remain in the same location and the land will be forested. Article supplied.

Fantastical space adventure ‘Insomnia’ wins first place young Te Puna filmmaker’s computer-generated animated film of an astronaut drifting alone through space has taken top honours in this year’s International Youth Silent Film Festival (IYSFF) New Zealand National competition. Silent film Insomnia by Tauranga Girls’ College student Asher Wadsworth, 17, was announced as the first-place winner of this year’s competition during the IYSFF NZ National Awards Final 2021, which was pre-recorded at Baycourt Community & Arts Centre in Tauranga and streamed online on Thursday, 11th November. Along with winning first place and the cash prize of $1500, Asher also picked up the inaugural Best Female Filmmaker award, sponsored by Women in Film & Television NZ. Asher’s film was crowned the winner by 2021 IYSFF NZ celebrity judge, come-

dian, actor, and writer Tom Sainsbury, who said it was an arduous task picking a winner due to the high standard and amazing creativity of this year’s Top 15 finalists. “Well done to Asher, it’s a fantastic film, I loved it. I can’t wait to see what your next one is… if you decide to do something that’s not silent next time, I can be a voice for you?” said Sainsbury. Placing second and collecting a cash prize of $1,000 was Napier filmmaker Dylan Pritchard, 17, for his film The Climb, which also took home the award for Best Shot. Coming in at third place and winning a cash prize of $500 was The Good, The Bad & The Dolly by Svetta Hackett, 15, and Timothy Chen, 12, from Auckland’s AGE School. Svetta and Timothy also picked up the awards for Best Actor and Best Director respectively for their work on fellow Top 15 finalist film Operation

Sparrow. Along with their accolades and cash prizes, the top two films Insomnia and The Climb will now represent Aotearoa New Zealand at the IYSFF Global Awards Final which will be held in Portland, Oregon, United States, in 2022. Sainsbury was thoroughly impressed by the Top 15 films, adding that if there weren’t child labour laws he would “hire half of you to film my stuff”. “Your technical side of things was just incredible, but I also loved the stories as well. So, congratulations on that and I can’t wait to see what you all do next.” The IYSFF competition challenges filmmakers aged 20 years and under, from the United States, Europe, Australia, The United Arab Emirates and Aotearoa to create a three-minute silent film set to one of 10 musical scores composed for the festival. Due to current Covid-19 alert level re-

strictions, the organisers made the difficult decision to move the ceremony online this year. The finals are traditionally held at Baycourt, with each film’s soundtrack performed live on the venue’s Wurlitzer Theatre Organ. Baycourt manager Reena Snook acknowledged all filmmakers who submitted entries and thanked everyone who tuned into the awards final on 11th November. “To every filmmaker who entered the IYSFF NZ this year – your talent, imagination and ambition is inspiring. “Despite everything that’s been thrown at you this year, you’ve still managed to shoot, edit and submit a short film on time, all the while juggling schoolwork and life. Your commitment and dedication to this unique festival is incredible and we’re truly honoured to provide a platform to showcase your creativity to the world.”

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Pahoia School events move with the times By Juanita Meder ike most schools in New Zealand, the Covid lockdown and restrictions have led to a very different Term 4 from what we had planned. This year’s Agricultural Day on Friday 29th October looked very different from our usual gala and exhibition day due to the limit in numbers able to be present at any one time, and the weather. The Ag Day committee did a great job displaying students’ projects in the hall. This year’s project categories were: Art and Craft - including collage, mask making, photography, sculpture, Lego and Duplo block creations, and tiny landscapes - Science, Wearable Art, Gardens - with photos of edible gardens and hanging baskets - and Cooking creations or cupcake decorating. Due to rain on Friday, children with calves, lambs and kids had their own day in the sun, literally, on Saturday, when

they displayed their animal handling skills. Our four school productions, one by each pod, had been scheduled for Term 3. The delays until this Term meant a very long lead up time of practices, then dress rehearsals, culminating in a week of matinee and evening shows. The children showed great focus and determination, doing their absolute best to showcase their talents. Volunteers worked very hard to create amazing costumes which brought the characters to life. Once again, restrictions at gatherings meant careful monitoring of numbers, mask-wearing and social distancing in the hall for each show.

Ag Day participants had a sunny day to display their skills.

Theatre people do it in the weirdest places aihī’s Hollie Weir does it in the shower. Katikati’s Tracey Carter leaves hers on the kitchen windowsill. All across the area from Whangamatā to the Mount, performers were learning their songs for the upcoming fundraiser All Together Now! The brainchild of Music Theatre International, this concert was performed around the world during the weekend of 12th to 14th November. Toi Whakaari NZ Drama School graduate, Hollie Weir has a few tricks up her sleeve when it comes to learning the lyrics to her songs. As the mother of two young boys, ‘me time’ is a little hard to come by so she plasters her shower glass with scripts. “It’s literally the only place my kids will let me rehearse”. In Tracey Carter’s house, the kitchen is the sweet spot as she combines her love of cooking, music, and theatre. “I’m a real foodie so it just makes sense to me”. MTI’S All Together Now! celebrates the return of live theatre after years of Covid-19 interruptions but Performance Director Fi Gudsell says they’re still playing it safe. “We’re limiting numbers in the theatre to just 50 per show, and mak-

Volunteers created a selection of costumes for the four school productions. PHOTOS: Supplied.

Hollie’s shower, plastered with lyrics to help her rehearse. PHOTO: Supplied.

ing sure there’s space between bubbles. It was such a great high-energy show and suitable for people of all ages.”. The Waihī fundraising concert featured 15 high-energy performances from famous shows such as Mamma Mia!, My Fair Lady, Charlie and The Chocolate Factory, Les Miserables and Matilda. If you are interested in other shows, visit www.waihidrama.co.nz

Regional council monitoring rivers ay of Plenty Regional Council Toi Moana is keeping a close eye on river and groundwater levels as we head into summer off the back of two very dry years. The last two summers have seen some streams in the Bay of Plenty reach their lowest ever recorded flows, but Water Shortage Event Manager Steve Pickles says there may be some relief this year. Weather predictions show that rainfall is expected to be normal this coming summer, and after some recent rainy weather, we are already experiencing a promising increase in some river flows. “Most of our rivers are in a healthy state as we enter summer, but we are carefully watching the streams flowing from the Kaimai and Mamaku ranges, which have experienced very low flows this year,” says Mr Pickles. Groundwater levels are stable when compared to last year but will likely de-

| Lizard News | December 2021

crease heading into summer. “Groundwater follows a seven-to-10year recharge cycle, and we appear to be in a lower recharge cycle at the moment,” says Mr Pickles. “In areas where there is lower rainfall, we may see some shallow wells drying up and smaller streams and springs with reduced flow.” “In dry summers, we do extra monitoring to ground-truth automatic gauges and check on smaller waterways where we don’t have live monitoring in place,” says Mr Pickles. “There are many tools we at the Regional Council can employ to protect the mauri of the water, but across the region, everybody can also do their part to help to care for local waterways. “Water users should check for leaks in their systems, and take steps always to use water as efficiently as possible to avoid wasting it.”

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Young Grower winner with Apata

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Diana Pedersen Qualified Naturopath Providing Professional Holistic Consultations & Treatment Plans. • Herbal Medicine • Nutritional Supplementation • Lifestyle & dietary intervention • Homeobotanicals & more…

HYDRALADA HIRE Want to safely prune and tidy trees around the house or orchard? Use our Hydralada for easy access. Call Grant: 021 284 7268

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Sewing alterations in Omokoroa. 35 years’ experience. Call Ann: 07 925 9004

By Monique Balvert-O’Connor n Apata employee with strong avocado industry knowledge has won the 2021 Young Grower competition. Melissa (Mel) van den Heuvel, 26, will now go on to represent her grower sector at the Young Horticulturist (Kaiahuone rangatahi o te tau) final early next year. Mel emerged the winner of her sector after a two-day competition held in late October. The competition involved testing skills like tractor driving, pest identification, and bookwork, as well as the presentation of an innovative idea, and delivery of a speech. “Winning was a shock, a bit overwhelming,” says Mel, who says she was up against a strong bunch of contestants. She says she’s proud to be in such a supportive industry and is passionate about her work. “What we produce is very topnotch,” says this young woman whose working life has been avocado-focused. Armed with a Bachelor of Science degree from Waikato University, Mel went straight to NZ Avocado. She spent three years there as a graduate and then moved into an industry systems associate role. Her postharvest-focused job involved aspects such as quality standards, and trials, and pest monitoring protocol. Mel moved to Katikati-based Apata just over a year ago and is an avocado grower services representative there. In February next year, Mel will face the six winners of the other sector finals who are also vying

for the coveted title of this year’s Young Horticulturist. Rotorua-born Mel lives in Matamata and commutes over the Kaimai Ranges to work after starting the day with an avocado-focused breakfast. “You can’t go wrong with avocado on toast, it’s stock standard. Depending on the mood, I sometimes add some lime flavoured avocado oil and chilli sauce, but usually, I just whip some on toast, and off I go,” Mel laughs. The Young Horticulturist competition chairperson Hamish Gates says the competition offers a springboard for contestants to ensure NZ’s horticultural industry remains innovative and inspirational in a global context. The competition is an important event for the primary sectors of NZ, he says, and couldn’t occur without the support of official partners, supporters, and friends of the competition. Countdown, Fruitfed, and T&G Fresh are returning as the official 2021 partners. T&G Global Chief Executive, Gareth Edgecombe says horticulture is an exciting and fulfilling career option for young people. “We’re proud to help recognise the future leaders of our industry through the Young Horticulturist Competition. Every year the competition presents many driven and enthusiastic young people ready to lead Aotearoa’s exciting horticulture industry forward, which is great to see.” This 2021 competition final was to have been held late this year but has been delayed until midFebruary due to Covid-related restrictions. PHOTOS: Supplied.

Chipseal. Driveway sealing, resurfacing and maintenance. Engineer assessment reports.

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COMPLETE LAWNS AND GARDENING Lawn mowing, green waste bags, hedging/ tree pruning, yard/garden tidy and large green waste removal. Locally owned and operated, servicing Omokoroa and surrounding areas. All enquiries welcome. Call Trent for a free quote: 022 333 2644

Aaron P re p & P a i n t Painter & Decorator Now taking bookings for your Summer projects.

Every Wednesday at 7.15pm, a very casual kick around is held at the ﬂoodlit bottom soccer pitch of Western Ave, Ōmokoroa. Anyone over 12 years is welcome, year round. Call Hamish on 552 6427.

Community folk who join Whakamārama Cyberlink are emailed news and events relevant to Whakamāramans, sent to more than 230 families in the area. Posts include: lost and found, free stuﬀ, community road notices, requests for help, positions vacant, markets, WBoPDC updates, house rentals/sitters, workshops, neighbourhood watch, stray stock etc. We also forward info from Ōmokoroa Cyberlink of general interest. Join up by emailing: rossroad@eol.co.nz asking to be added to Whakamārama Cyberlink.

Animal Health Care Is your Pet suffering from Itchy Skin, Eye or Ear problems, Seizures, Anxiety, Arthritis, Muscular pain/ stiffness or just unwell? Homeopathy and Bowen Therapy offer safe and effective treatments supporting your Pet’s health. Contact Hannelore: 548 0824

FIREWOOD Ready to Burn Mix $95.00 cube Gum $140.00 cube Free delivery Katikati town Phone 549 2141 or txt 027 778 7301

SITUATIONS VACANT

Painter/Decorator required. Experience preferred, however further training and development will be provided. We are a well-established business in Waikato and more recently in Tauranga. You will be working mainly in the Western Bay of Plenty region. Check out our website: http://www.paint-creations.com Phone Stu: 0274 711 891

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Pain Relief with Bowen Therapy Are you suffering from Back, Neck, Shoulder or Knee pain, Sciatica, Tennis Elbow, RSI, Migraines, Chronic Fatigue or any other discomfort? Bowen Therapy offers gentle and effective hands-on relief.

• Automotive Technician/Mechanic - Adams Automotive: Diesel and petrol, including vehicle servicing, repairs, WOFs, motorbikes and trucks. • General Mechanical Fabricator/Engineer – Linich Engineering: General fitting, manual machining, welding and mechanical repairs and assembly. We run busy workshops in Katikati and we need people with the right skills and attitude to join our friendly team. We’d love to hear from you! Please email your CV to linich@fleggbrothers.co.nz or call Nick Flegg 021 445 587.

Call Hannelore on 548 0824 Members can share via Ōmokoroa Cyberlink community news and events to over 900 emails. Recent posts include: lost and found, free stuﬀ, requests for help, positions vacant, new local businesses, markets, WBoPDC updates, house rentals/ sitters, workshops and much more. To join or send a post, email cyberlinkomokoroa@gmail.com with your name, email address and message, if required. Thank you, Rick Peers.

44-gallon drum incinerators $35 each. Delivered between Katikati and Tauranga. Phone: 548 0823 or 0274 920 223.

OMOKOROA CLEANING SERVICES Homes, gardens, lawns, car valets. Glass,tile shower rejuvenation. Water blasting, painting. All enquires welcome. Ph. Ludi & Andrea 548 2657 | 021 070 0021

KINGFISHER TRUSTLAW Is a small firm with experienced trust lawyers who can set up and review your Family Trust to comply with the newly enacted Trusts Act. Call for a complimentary appraisal. Jacques Vannoort LLM Te Puna 021 830 308 kingfishertrustlaw@gmail.com

PUBLIC NOTICE

Justices of the Peace drop-in sessions Mon Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Fri

11-1 1-3 11-12 6.30-7.30 10-12 10-12 10-12

Waihī Library Ōmokoroa Library Waihī Beach Library Te Puna School Library Ōmokoroa Library Bethlehem Community Church Katikati Community Centre

Find a JP at: www.justiceofthepeace.org.nz

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Personal notices $5 per 20 words, Business classifieds $10 per 20 words. Maximum of 40 words per advert. Photos extra.

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December 2021 | Lizard News |

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News in brief... Three Waters mandate The Government has announced it will make its Three Waters reform mandatory for all councils, rejecting the option to make it voluntary for councils. The reform will see the management of drinking water, wastewater and stormwater transferred from 67 councils to four public-owned entities from 1st July 2024. The mandate caused an outcry as the vast majority of councils had expressed opposition. Climate summary

People are urged to have conversations with vulnerable or elderly family members. Alcohol policy

Western Bay Council is proposing to end alcohol sales at 9pm instead of 10pm across the district, and no new bottle stores would be allowed in Te Puke or Maketū. The Local Alcohol Policy is open for submissions until 6th December, with Tauranga City’s separate LAP open for submissions until 20th December. Search warrant on SH2

It was the fifth warmest October on record, says the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research. NIWA says rainfall was above normal for coastal Bay of Plenty. Whakatāne had 112mm on the 28th, the third-highest day of rainfall there since 1952. Of the six main centres, Tauranga was wettest and also second warmest behind Auckland. On the 12th, Te Puke had a record wind gust of 61km/h.

Traffic delays were reported on State Highway 2 as Police conducted an operation on 28th October, near the junction of Fraser Street and Fifteenth Avenue. Cordons were put in place to divert traffic through side streets around the intersection. Police say it was a pre-planned search warrant at an address in the area and that enquiries in relation to the search warrant were ongoing.

The property market reached new heights in October. QV says the average residential home value in New Zealand topped $1 million for the first time. The average value increased 5.3% nationally over the three months to the end of October, with the national average value now $1,002,153 - up 27% yearon-year. Residential in Tauranga was up 2.3% in October, 6.6% over the last three months and 33.8% annually, with the city’s average home value now $1,114,616.

Police say life-threatening advice for trampers is circulating on social media because being lost is an emergency, and you should call 111. A Facebook post on outdoors groups was suggesting if your phone battery is low, you could change your voicemail message. Police say that’s a waste of time and battery and that it’s better to raise the alarm. Ideally, trampers should use the Plan my Walk app and hire a locator beacon.

Police are warning of another phone scam. Callers claiming to be from the Inland Revenue Department attempt to obtain credit card information, passwords or bank details.

Contractors have been resealing along State Highway 2 between Waihī and Te Puna, as well as sections of SH29 over the Kaimais and SH36 in Pyes Pa. NZTA suggested work would be completed

Property values

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| Lizard News | December 2021

overnight where possible but says the maintenance season has been unseasonably wet so far. Contractors need fine weather to complete road works or must postpone. Temporary speed limits are intended to reduce stone chip damage to vehicles.

Lost in the bush

SH2 resurfacing

Kauri Point jetty Kauri Point Historic Reserve is currently closed to the public for repair works to the jetty's walkway and decking and handrailing. Work at the popular fishing spot is expected to be completed by Friday 10th December. The Council says public safety is the priority. Waihī Beach Library

The Council says it wants a new library and service centre hub for Waihī Beach in 2024 to be a space designed by the community and at the heart of the community. Council says the current location is too small as it only has room for one public computer. Votes were being taken on four suggested sites: the Community Centre Rear Reserve, Wilson Park, Wilson Road Carpark, and Wilson Road Broadlands Block. Suggestions have included co-working spaces, meeting rooms, event spaces or even a small cinema.