Lizard News January 2023

L i z a r d Ne ws

L i z a r d Ne ws

Inspiring visit from World champions

By Matthew Farrell

Of all the places in New Zealand, the champion Black Ferns kicked off a pre-Christmas Thank You Aotearoa nationwide tour in Ōmokoroa to the delight of fans Kids of all generations turned up to greet their heroines on Monday 5th December, weeks on from their historic Rugby World Cup victory over England in Auckland Public events, including a reception at

A trio of Bay of Plenty Volcanix players Luka Connor, Santo Taumata, and Renee Wickliffe were joined by their Chiefs teammate Ruby Tūī and Blues midfielder Theresa Fitzpatrick Luka says they have been blown away

by the awesome amount of support from a fan base that grew throughout the tournament, and they’re now being recognised in the street

The Black Ferns will now be printed as a set of Weetbix cards, which Luka says would be a dream for any player growing up Ruby Tūī was absolutely swamped by children - being asked to sign foreheads, forearms, plaster casts, crocs, balls, and photos “They are being generous to me, ” Ruby says

“We’ve had such a good turnout of kids It’s great for the younger generation to see them in person; it’s good for rugby in general. We are pretty lucky to have them here on such a big night for the kids It’s made the finals a bit more exciting,” says Phoenix

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

Parliament in Wellington, skills and drills, street parades, and meet and greets started with a photo opportunity and signing session as part of the Rippa Rugby Finals Night at Western Avenue Sports Ground

Another Volcanix player, Phoenix Pāniora, was there with the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union for the Rippa and says they’d applied to have the Black Ferns visit.

PHOTO: Andrew McWilliam

L AYOUT & DESIGN

Creative By Design, Matamata team@creativebydesign co nz

Letters to the Editor

Slower is safer

In the last Lizard News, Scott Simpson wrote about the 80 km speed limit that has been mooted I suggest he talks with the people who live on the highways before he makes such comments I live on a road off busy State Highway 2. Many of us were thankful when the limit was dropped to 80 kms In the last year, I have, except for two instances, made it home after a busy day’s work in a reasonable time Before the limit was dropped, it was not unusual to be stopped in traffic for up to five hours as there had been an accident One night we were not allowed through at all and went back into Tauranga to stay with friends

When I read about the lowered limit, I also read that it had come from a large amount of research; perhaps Scott Simpson needs to read this research

Sorry to slow a few people down, but it is so wonderful to get home safely if a few minutes later than usual Jo Kemp

I shudder to think of the consequences if I hadn’t or if it had been a child There was no warning whatsoever as they are very quiet vehicles

While I appreciate golf carts are a convenient form of transport to and from the golf course, it is actually illegal to drive them on the road or on a footpath I think a timely reminder that pedestrians have right of way on the footpath might be in order I’m just concerned that with the population growth in Ōmokoroa and the expansion of footpaths, there is an accident in the making Rosemary Treloar, Ōmokoroa

New meets less new

A new members event was held at Ōmokoroa Boat Club on Sunday 17th October, attended by about 65 new members Also at this event were the following long-standing members, who were presented with Life Membership gold cards

Sean and Marilyn McPherson: Sean joined the committee in 2004 and was Club Captain between 2006-2012 He was involved with several clubroom renovations and spent many hours fundraising for the alterations.

John Robertson: Joining in 1982, John has been a club member for forty years He was one of many volunteers involved with sinking piles, building the deck and alterations to the clubrooms

to reflect on the amazing, but busy year we have had

After a couple of years of chaos and uncertainty, this year, we have seen restrictions lifted, allowing our focus to be bringing the school and community back together again, something that has been noticeably missing

In doing that, we have successfully surpassed our financial targets and expectations, but we all know, and want to acknowledge, that it wouldn’t be possible without the help of people like you and businesses like yours

Thank you for being part of our success in 2022, and we all hope that you have a Merry Christmas and a fantastic start to the New Year (abridged) Ōmokoroa Point School PTA

Abbeyfield appreciation

Mōrena Matthew and Liz, on behalf of Abbeyfield WBoP, many thanks for your generous support of Abbeyfield WBoP over the past year

The article in the recent Lizard News about the Dame Silvia dinner was excellent, and we greatly appreciate you reporting on the event

Wishing you and your family a lovely Christmas and a New Year full of fun, great stories and joy

Kind regards, Carole Parker

accuracy fairness and balance in reporting news of public interest We request that contributors assist us in upholding standards of decency and privacyavoiding discrimination and defamation We reserve the right to edit or abridge submitted material and will identify scribes where appropriate other than where confidentiality has been assured Unless an article is marked as supplied, those without bylines will typically have been written by the editor

Crazy golf carts

I’ve been mulling over this for over a week but have decided to raise it as an issue that maybe you could address in your newspaper Last week, I was just about run over by a golf cart being driven towards Ōmokoroa Road up the new path that runs down the side of the bottom playing field on Western Avenue Luckily I was hugging the hedge as I got to the bottom corner; otherwise, it would have gone straight into/over me

Heather Reynolds: Heather received Life Membership in her own right and on behalf of her late husband, Hugh Both were committee members for several years, holding the secretary and treasurer roles Hugh was also very involved with the club sailing programmes Cory Payne, Commodore

An amazing, busy year

As we come to the end of the school year, the ŌPS PTA has taken some time

Chairperson, Abbeyfield WBoP

Thank Godwits

Dear Liz and Matthew, we sincerely appreciate your support of the Ōmokoroa Godwits / Kuaka Welcome Home Please accept our sincere thanks for your support with the featuring of our articles in Lizard News on the Welcome Home event, both pre and post-event Roger Goodman & Christina Cleaver Ōmokoroa Environmental Managers Inc

By Matthew Farrell

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and we do a fair amount of word work around here Since starting Lizard News, we have utilised an application called Grammarly to assist us with spelling, punctuation and grammar checking with each article we print

In November, we reached a milestone of ten million words checked since March 2017, and it seemed like an op-

portune moment to examine the statistical breakdown

In the past couple of months, our production weeks have seen Liz and I check 108,624 words per week (November edition) and 122,584 words per week (December edition)

The app tells us this is typically a more productive week than 96% to 97% of Grammarly users and that it led to a vocabulary of 9,486 unique words in December - which is more than 99% of Grammarly users, no doubt

boosted by occasional Te Reo Māori words

When we are not in our main production week each month, we typically check anything up to approximately 25,000 words per week

Grammarly also detects the tone that we and our scribes write in The app describes our collective writing efforts as a mixture of informative, appreciative, confident, curious, formal, direct, friendly, inspirational, and assertive at times

Twelve months of TNL works

By Matthew Farrell

The Tākitimu North Link project is now one year into construction Waka Kotahi says great progress is being made with environmental controls in place, site accesses established, five bridges in construction, a site office opened and critical utilities relocation work underway

There has been vegetation and site clearance work, and the building of haul roads

Archaeological investigations and ecological works have also been underway Meanwhile, some of the TNL’s smallest neighbours, tamariki from Te Puna Kindergarten, visited the project team on

site recently to gift a very special name to a 280-tonne crane

After many rounds of brainstorming, involving princesses and Marvel characters, the children settled on Crusher Gordon in memory of the late Gordon Burr, who had a very close relationship with the kindergarten Farmer Burr lived next door and opened up his property to the tamariki to learn about all things farming and growing

The project team, Fulton Hogan and HEB Construction welcomed the youngsters on-site for a close-up look at Crusher Gordon and the 120-tonne Mini Crusher Gordon, which are being used to construct bridges at Minden Gully.

By Ian Blunt Chief Fire Officer

Ōmokoroa Volunteer Firefighters responded to eight callouts since the last report Unfortunately, four of those were to motor vehicle crashes, the first incident at the SH2 Esdaile/Pahoia Road No persons were trapped or seriously injured A week later, a loaded fuel tanker slipped into the service water channel and ended on its side on Apata Station Road The fuel was pumped out, and the tanker righted onto its wheels.

A dog was rescued from being trapped down a bank on Plummers Point Road, and a deliberately lit fire at the sports pavilion was out on arrival On 18th December, a car crossed the centre line and collided with a truck on State Highway 2, just short of the Ōmokoroa turn-off The road was closed for a number of hours while emergency services dealt with the incident

Ōmokoroa Volunteer First Responders

By Matthew Farrell

Acar driver involved in a crash at Whakamārama on Sunday 18th December, has died

Their vehicle collided with a truck just before 4pm, near the intersection of Ōmokoroa Rd

The truck driver was unharmed, but the State Highway was blocked as the Serious Crash Unit investigated

have been extremely busy, attending the motor vehicle crashes and the normal cardiac arrests, chest pain, breathing problems and persons suffering injuries from falls The team has now responded 209 times so far this year, with two weeks until 2023 Please take extra care and be safe where ever you are

Thank you all throughout the community for your support Thank you also to our dedicated team of volunteers who have given our community a lot of free time; well done

The new year sees the Brigade looking for more volunteers, both firefighters and first responders You will learn a heap of new skills, have training and uniform provided and will integrate into a successful local team already serving their community

If you feel you could help, then please call CFO Ian Blunt on 0274 599 478 or DCFO Fergus Keith on 0274 922 887 or have a chat with one of our team who will be only too pleased to share information with you

Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade State Highway accidents

Police remained at the scene more than five hours later, as the highway reopened

Meanwhile, a truck with flammable goods rolled over on Main Road in Katikati on the evening of Monday 12th December

Police advised motorists to avoid the area or expect delays following the serious crash The road was closed for some hours, and diversions were put in place

Five bridges are to be built across the TNL including this 145m temporary construction PHOTO: Supplied

Waihī to Ōmokoroa roading

By Matthew Farrell

Waka Kotahi says 2023 is shaping up to be another busy year for State Highway 2 as the NZ Transport Agency continues to progress the construction of Morton Road roundabout and the design of a flexible median barrier between Tetley Road and Esdaile Road

It is anticipated they will share the planned layout with the community in early 2023 after an independent safety audit

Waka Kotahi received 500 pieces of public feedback about the median barrier

Another major milestone for this year will be work starting on roundabouts at Sharp Road and Lockington / Matahui Roads

More information about public open days will be shared when details are confirmed

Waka Kotahi says roundabouts provide safe turnaround points and can re-

duce the number of people killed or seriously injured by 60% because they reduce the chance of head-on, and side-impact, crashes, and vehicle speeds are lower

The Agency says flexible road safety barriers are the safest barrier if someone hits them, and a cost-effective infrastructure treatment to save lives

75% of people who die or are seriously injured on rural roads have had a headon collision or have run off the side of the road Flexible road safety barriers have high-tension wire cables that flex to absorb impact, slowing a vehicle and keeping it upright They’re designed to protect people in the vehicle and ensure it isn’t deflected into another lane

Waka Kotahi says flexibility also makes them safer for motorcycles than traditional, solid W-barriers, which don’t move when hit

International evidence suggests flexible barriers could reduce the number of motorcyclists killed and injured on our roads by 50%

Late stage works between Athenree Road and Tanners Point Road The location of flexible road safety barriers is expected

Light poles being placed at Morton Road PHOTOS: Supplied

Billboard design excites students

The Ōmokoroa billboard has a fresh new look with a macron, thanks to Ōmokoroa Point School’s Room 10

The billboard at the State Highway 2 and Ōmokoroa intersection captures the wonders of Ōmokoroa, according to the students These include the beach, skatepark, native birds, Pōhutukawa trees, the playground, whānau/family, cycle tracks, boardwalks, and the wharf (fishing and jumping off )

None of this would have been possible if it wasn’t for the students’ Operation Tohutō campaign

After hearing their presentation to Councillors in September, Council CEO John Holyoake invited the students to continue leading their community initiative by co-designing the updated look

Western Bay Mayor James Denyer revealed the final design to excited students in December

Principal Sandra Portegys is incredibly proud of the students and knows that they will remember this process whenever they pass the billboard at the entrance of Ōmokoroa

“I’d like to thank the District Council for hearing the children’s case This shows

our young people they have a voice and if they do things the right way, they can positively impact their community,” says Sandra

Room 10 teacher Deirdre Duggan couldn’t agree more “It’s been an experience the students will never forget Having the support of the Council in this process to help guide our project to success has been so appreciated; a chance for real-life learning in social action, which will change our community forever”

Sofia was excited she could contribute “I like the design, and it’s my favourite colour, purple It shows everything we like and what activities we can do in Ōmokoroa ”

Fellow student Rebecca agrees, saying, “the design connects to what we love ” Western Bay Mayor James Denyer says we appreciate Room 10’s mahi and their journey

“They have shown their community their voice can lead to change They can look proudly at the billboard and know they’ve made a difference,” he says The new billboard design is now standing proudly on the corner of State Highway 2 and Ōmokoroa Road

Hannah tees up sport sponsor

By Matthew Farrell

Outgoing sports captain Hannah Cooney has arranged for $500 of sports gear sponsorship for Ōmokoroa Point School from Colliers real estate agent, Jeff Barbour

Hannah says she wants to ensure other children will have better gear to use in future, to help them compete in sports

“My sisters like surfing and dancing, but I like rugby and Rippa I’m hoping to get OPS new equipment like rugby balls and kicking tees, basketballs and maybe a couple of tennis racquets,” says Hannah

Jeff, who specialises in rural and orchard sales, spent several years coaching football at OPS and was on the Board of Trustees when his children were at the school

“I’ve always seen sport as an important part of the curriculum to encourage and support Sport is good for kids, parents and the community Hannah is a credit to young people for making this happen,” says Jeff

Principal Sandra Portegys says she and Hannah will ask children what equipment they would want to get them moving, and then they’ll go catalogue shopping

Mayor James Denyer with ŌPS Principal Sandra Portegys and Room 10 students

PHOTO: Matthew Farrell

Hannah and Jeff team up for OPS sport

PHOTO: Matthew Farrell

RMA reforms: Local voice and environmental conflicts key issues for councils

targets where degradation needs to be restored”

By Alisha Evans Local Democracy Reporter alisha@thesun co nz

The Government’s Resource Management Act reforms promise to be cheaper, faster and better, but two Bay of Plenty councils have expressed their concerns about how this will be achieved

With the changes, more than 100 plans influencing consenting across different centres around the country will be reduced to just 15 regional plans

These will be developed by local committees and guided by long-term strategies

A national framework will also be created to ensure central government has a say in the overall direction

Environmental protection will also now be focused on outcomes, “setting limits to maintain current environmental limits and

Western Bay of Plenty mayor James Denyer said the reduction in plans “should simplify things” but how “local voice was maintained” needed to be “worked out”

The regional planning committees, who will create the Natural and Built Environment Plans, will have a minimum of six members that will be representatives of local hapū, iwi and Māori, and local government

The committees must have a minimum of two Māori members and one chosen by central government, and each territorial authority and regional council can have a member

Denyer said it was “unclear” if the council representative would be an elected member or planning professional

“How much voice that actually is, it’s just a big unknown at the moment,” he said

Tauranga City Council (TCC) also had concerns about the committees TCC general manager of strategy, growth

and governance Christine Jones said: “The regionalisation of plan-making and the complex arrangements for the new Regional Planning Committees will make it more difficult for high growth cities such as Tauranga to resolve urban growth challenges effectively”

Denyer and Jones said their councils had been working together on sub-regional spatial planning for the Western Bay of Plenty through SmartGrowth since it was formed in 2004

Jones said TCC supported the requirement for all regions to prepare a spatial strategy

“However, the delivery of spatial plans must be tied into infrastructure funding and financing agreements which are linked to local and central government funding mechanisms ”

Denyer wanted to ensure the Western Bay of Plenty’s views would be reflected in the regional plans

“How that works in practice is yet to be seen, ” he said

In his speech announcing the changes, Environment Minister David Parker described the current system as “broken”

“It takes too long, costs too much and has not adequately provided for development nor protected the environment,” he said

“It needs to be faster, cheaper and better We [the Government] are doing that, delivering a system that provides greater certainty and simplicity”

He also spoke about community voice within the changes

“Local communities will continue to have a strong voice, including through Statements of Community Outcomes There is flexibility for regions to determine the regional planning committee’s makeup, with committees comprising of representatives from local government and Māori groups in the region ”

The Minister was approached about the councils’ specific concerns but did not respond in time for deadline

Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air

Residents voice industrial concerns

By Matthew Farrell

Following last month’s article regarding Te Puna Station Road industrial activity, we have requested an update on proceedings courtesy of Priority Te Puna Incorporated Society

PTP’s Alison Cowley says the following:

“The mediators asked that expert consultants acting for the three developers with regard to stormwater, roading and traffic, should have a conference to discuss matters, as the business park

is a collective entity

“These consultants are due to provide feedback by January 30th Western Bay of Plenty District Council will then have their people analyse this feedback by March 1st Meanwhile, the ‘stay’ on the abatement has been extended under the umbrella of this appeal process

“Priority Te Puna represented the community, speaking of traffic concerns with large trucks alongside children getting to school now, and the fear of that escalating

- degradation of the environment - degradation of culture and heritage - impacts on rural community and failure to abide by rules applied, and commitments made, when developers applied for this zone to be created - and, damage to neighbouring properties and blocked stormwater, resulting in degradation of the ecosystem and catchment

“The community is doing a great job of supporting the Priority Te Puna team Engaging a legal team just to get the basics

sorted is not something we should have to be doing, but it is necessary to even have a voice in the process This is how the system is structured,” says Alison

PTP’s Sarah Rice says the Incorporated Society is asking the community to support them with help towards legal costs Donations can be made to Priority Te Puna account number 06-0491-0280683-01

Please send your contact details to prioritytepuna@gmail com so they can issue a receipt

Ōmokoroa Foodbank drive

By Murray Grainger

What happens with the Ōmokoroa Christmas Foodbank drive?

In November, Freshchoice start putting boxes aside for the Foodbank Peter collects these on a regular basis and stores them Rick advertises and encourages teams of people to volunteer as collectors

On the day of the collection, Peter assembles masses of flattened boxes back into shape, ready to be packed with cans and packets

On the night, all the volunteer collectors, runners and drivers and the Fire Brigade drive the streets of Ōmokoroa collecting goodies from the generous residents of Ōmokoroa The collected goods are delivered to the Ōmokoroa Community Church, where a team of volunteers led by the Lions sort the goods into categories (tinned fruit, tinned vegetables, baked beans, soap, soup, pasta, etc ) and pack them into cardboard boxes

The fit chaps remove the filled boxes, tape them up, label them, carry them to the kitchen, and leave them in sorted piles 230 boxes have been moved by the end of the night

Spare boxes that come in are broken down at the end of the night, and all the paper bags from the collection are flat-

tened and ready for re-use throughout the year

The next day, a team of ladies start filling the shelves in the Food Bank cupboard and tidying up the church hall Another team, arranged by Rick, arrive and clear all the boxes from the kitchen into the long-term storage

Over the next few days, the special Christmas food parcels are assembled by Christine and a frozen chicken, a packet of frozen peas and a box of potatoes are added as the parcels are collected The generous cash donations given to the collectors on the night ($285) greatly assisted in providing these extra Christmas additions

The store cupboard is stacked as full as it can be, and the rest is left in long-term storage to be used throughout the year

All the cardboard boxes emptied during the process are flattened and returned to Freshchoice to be crushed and added to their cardboard recycling

The long and short of it all is that it would not be possible without so many of the community generously giving of their time by pitching in, in so many different ways and thus helping to provide for those who need some assistance with food through the year

Anyone needing food support will be welcomed by Tanya at the Ōmokoroa Community Church office (check for opening hours)

Take a bow, Ōmokoroa - you are wonderful

PHOTOS: Supplied

Crime and incident report

have dropped the motor into the water It has since been recovered by the owner

Burglaries

18-19th November, Te Puna Quarry Park function room was broken into and a defibrillator in a box stolen 18-19th November, a Nottingham Road, Ōmokoroa address was entered overnight, and two smartwatches and knives were taken A fence and the driveway were also spray painted (see apprehensions)

Saturday, 26th November a shed on a Pahoia Road property was entered, and a hedge trimmer and other electrical items were stolen

Overnight Saturday 3rd December, a handbag was stolen from an Olive Close address, and a cash card was used to buy goods at an Ōmokoroa store We are following a strong line of enquiry

Overnight Wednesday 30th November, attempted break in to the Katikati Christian Centre on Henry Road

Between Thursday 1st and Sunday 4th December, workers’ accommodation was broken into on Fencourt Crescent, Katikati Coins were stolen, but unusually a five seater couch and a chair have been introduced to the address Somebody may be missing these items

A red Holland tractor was stolen from a Canon Road property

Between the 30th of November and the 1st December, a yacht moored off Tanners Point was the subject of a burglary The outboard motor has had cables cut, and the offender appears to

Between 7 20 am and 10 20 am on the 29th November, a shed was broken into on a rural Whakamārama Road property, and a Honda XR100 motorcycle was stolen A suspicious black Mistubishi Lancer station wagon with a male driver was seen in the area by residents, and this was immediately reported to the Police Patrols were sent out to the area but did not locate the vehicle at the time A search warrant at a Te Puna property was carried out on the 2nd December While the motorbike was not recovered, we are still investigating its whereabouts

Theft

Petrol drive off at BP Katikati on 18th November (see apprehensions)

Cash from an honesty box and eggs were stolen from Pahoia Beach Road on Friday night of 25th November

Theft of parcels from letterboxes in Bruntwood Drive, and Pahoia Road, Whakamārama on Wednesday 30th November, during the day

Unlawful taking of motor vehicles

18-19th November, a white 2015 Toyota Hilux utility was stolen from Prole Road, Ōmokoroa and not yet recovered 18-19th November, a red A4 Audi was stolen from a driveway in Western Avenue, Ōmokoroa Oddly, the vehicle was returned after having been driven around the Ōmokoroa and Bethlehem area Perfume was stolen from the

vehicle (see apprehensions)

18-19th November, two young males were disturbed breaking into a vehicle parked on Bert Wall Drive, Ōmokoroa (see apprehensions)

Wilful Damage

Vehicle damaged on Main Road, Katikati (see apprehensions)

Graffiti to windbreak netting on SH 2 Tahāwai

Letterbox damaged at Atlanta Court, Katikati

Found Property

10 Kiwi fruit bags have been handed in

Arrests and apprehensions

A 14-year-old Ōmokoroa male was interviewed on the 21st November in relation to most of the offending which occurred in Ōmokoroa on the night of the 18-19th Nov He has been referred to YAS for further action Further enquiries are continuing

A 30-year-old Katikati woman was apprehended on Plummers Point Road after having been involved in a petrol drive-off earlier in the day

A 46-year-old Katikati woman was interviewed in relation to shoplifting items from a Katikati store and tools from Mitre 10 in Waihī She will appear in court for two counts of theft

Three people were given infringement notices after a checkpoint was carried out on Beach Road, Katikati, on 17th November An infringement notice is is-

sued if an alcohol reading between 250 and 400 mgms of alcohol per litre of breath is detected This also attracts 50 demerit points

A 46-year-old Auckland man was apprehended over the weekend for being unlawfully on a Margaret Drive, Ōmokoroa property Fortunately, the registration of the man ’ s silver Subaru Legacy was noted at the time, which allowed Police to apprehend the suspect at a Tauranga address He was also wanted in relation to a number of other offences and has been charged with 11 other crimes, including burglary, being unlawfully on properties and using stolen cash cards He was due to appear in the Tauranga DC on 28th November His bail was opposed by Police

23rd November, a 26-year-old Paeroa man was charged with wilfully damaging a vehicle on Main Road Katikati after a traffic dispute

23rd November, a 51-year-old Ōmokoroa man was charged with trespass and breaching bail conditions after allegedly entering a nearby property.

23rd November, a 21-year-old Rotorua man was apprehended for drink driving on Highfields Drive, Katikati

24th November, a 47-year-old man of no fixed abode was located on Main Road, Katikati after a driving complaint He has been charged with breaching conditions of zero alcohol interlock licence conditions The vehicle was impounded

25th November, a Tauranga man was stopped on SH 2 Katikati and charged

By Senior Sergeant Steve Hindmarsh and Senior Constable James Muir

with driving with a suspended driver’s licence Vehicle impounded

A 46-year-old Auckland man has been charged in relation to the burglary of an Olive Close, Ōmokoroa address on 26th November He is also charged with the subsequent use of a PayWave card at a local Ōmokoroa store He is facing numerous other dishonesty charges and was remanded in custody until his next court appearance in Tauranga DC on 5th December

Investigations into the burglary of a SH2 Minden address on 20th November, where a generator was stolen from the property, have led to the arrest of a 30year-old Tāneatua man He was located in Whakatāne on 2nd December, and he has been charged with burglary He was remanded in custody to appear in the Whakatāne DC on 7th December

A 15-year-old Ōmokoroa youth has been referred to the Katikati Youth Aid officer after being interviewed in relation to a vehicle which was stolen from an Ōmokoroa address and damaged 7th December, a 36-year-old Katikati man was charged with possessing cannabis after a quantity of cannabis was located during a vehicle stop in Katikati

8th December, a 56-year-old Ōpōtiki man has been charged with unlawfully taking a vehicle, being unlawfully in a building and refusing an officer’s request for a blood sample (drink drive procedure-related) after an incident in Plummers Point He was due to appear in the Tauranga DC on the 15th December.

11th December, a 34-year-old Tahāwai woman was summoned to court for driving with excess breath alcohol after a driving complaint was received on SH2 26-year-old Katikati woman charged with shoplifting relating to an incident in November General

After having apprehended a number of Katikati offenders recently for dishonesty offending, we have now had a mini spate of crime in Ōmokoroa A youth offender is being dealt with for a number of these offences, and further enquiries are continuing in relation to co-offenders

Recently we have recovered a lot of battery-operated tools and hand tools from various addresses knowing that they are highly likely to be stolen Trying to match owners to the tools can be very time-consuming as only a few people record serial numbers or mark their

property Please take time to note down the serial numbers of your tools If using a permanent marker, I suggest that you mark them with your driver’s licence number if you have one A Police officer will immediately recognise this number and run it through the Police computer and match it to the rightful owner Any other number can be used as an ID as long as your record it and pass it to the Police should your property be stolen Just make sure the number is of a reasonable length to make it unique

The theft of parcels from letterboxes in the Whakamārama area has reared its head again We have had a report of suspicious persons in a black Holden utility looking through mailboxes If anyone witnesses the theft of mail in progress or suspicious behaviour around rural letterboxes, please call 111 straight away, so we have a chance of apprehending these thieves in or around the area

An elderly Ōmokoroa person was scammed by a cold caller claiming to be from Spark, saying that he needed to clear spam from her computer 7th December, a Mitsubishi van failed to stop for Police in Katikati The vehicle was not pursued but was later found abandoned on Walker West Road and was subsequently impounded pending further enquiries

At 5 20 pm on 12th December, a Fuso truck carrying disinfectant crashed on Main Road outside the Talisman Tavern The truck struck a parked car and ended up on top of it, crushing it significantly Damage was also done to the roof of the tavern It is extremely fortunate that nobody was in the parked car Things could have been so much worse An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crash

There was another truck turnover on the same morning, this time on Apata Station Road The truck was carrying a load of petrol and diesel, and luckily the tanks did not rupture A significant part of the day was spent pumping the fuels from the truck before it could be salvaged

The annual Food Drive was another success, with a huge amount of food collected A big thank you to all of the volunteers who participated in the collection and to the people of Katikati who contributed so generously to a worthy cause

Remember, if you see something, say something Call 111 if it’s happening now Call 105 if it is after the event

Bay of Plenty Police disappointed at checkpoint results

Bay of Plenty Police are urging motorists to make a conscious decision not to get behind the wheel after drinking.

Police set up 15 checkpoints in Tauranga, Mt Maunganui, Pāpāmoa and Te Puke over the nights of Friday 16th and Saturday 17th December to target impaired drivers with the aim to keep our roads safe

Of the 8513 breath tests conducted, 102 drivers were processed for excess breath alcohol at checkpoints on the Friday and Saturday nights across the region

Fourteen drivers had their licenses suspended immediately, and a further six drivers had their vehicles impounded

Sergeant Mark Holmes of the Bay of

“We know this is a social time of year, and people are getting together and celebrating, but we want you to get home to your family safely for Christmas

“Driving impaired is one of the four main contributors to death or serious injury on our roads

“If you ’ re in any doubt about whether you ’ re safe or legal to drive, Police’s advice is simple – don’t do it ”

Motorists can expect to see Police out any time, anywhere, on roads across the Bay of Plenty district right throughout the summer to ensure everyone gets to their destination safely Article supplied

Plenty Coastal Impairment Prevention Team says these results are extremely disappointing

Bay of Plenty Regional councillors decide on their pay

The regional council chairperson Doug Leeder will earn $152,522 yearly, a raise of $6022 from the previous triennium

At the inaugural meeting in October, the councillors voted to elect the same chair and deputy chairperson as the prior term

By Alisha Evans Local Democracy Reporter alisha@thesun co nz

The Remuneration Authority sets the pool for the councillors’ salaries and the chairperson’s remuneration, which is separate from the councillors’ pool

During Thursday’s meeting, councillor Stuart Crosby raised the point that the pool of $869,154 had remained the same for “ some time” and said it was “at least six years ”

Leeder responded, saying it was the Remuneration Authority’s mandate

Four newly elected councillors and ten who retained their seats are sitting around the council table

A councillor with no extra responsibilities will be paid an annual salary of $61,525 A committee chairperson will earn $ 70,000 a year, and the council’s deputy chairperson Jane Nees will earn $80,004 per year

“[It’s] best discussed at the forum of LGNZ in terms of the current debate,” says Leeder

Crosby is also the president of Local Government New Zealand, the professional body for elected members of Aotearoa’s councils

The Remuneration Authority determines the pool by taking into account the size of the governance role of each council, the average time required by an elected member on a council of a particular size, and a general comparison with parliamentary salaries, according to the authority’s website

One of the issues raised by the independent panel working on the Future for Local Government review is how much councillors were paid

The review aimed to address plummeting voter turnout and a lack of diversity around council tables

Its most recent paper, released last month, recommended increasing councillors’ pay to encourage a wider range of people to stand

During the meeting, the council also adopted its governance structure and appointed a chairperson, deputy chairperson and members to the numerous

committees, joint committees, advisory and working groups the council has Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air

Now officially a big cheese

Angela Maritz

Te Puna Deli has come up trumps After being assessed by the New Zealand Cheese Makers Association they ve been selected to join the list of Top New Zealand Cheese Stores for 2023 Owner Sam Darragh says they’re proud to be considered an exceptional NZ cheese outlet alongside some of the most prestigious cheese stores in NZ The deli at 17B Minden Road is also well-loved by locals for coffee, sandwiches, local and organic produce charcuterie and fresh bread

PHOTO: Matthew Farrell

Bay of Plenty Regional Council s first ordinary meeting was held on Thursday 24th November

PHOTO: Alisha Evans/Sun Media

A Regional Councillor

PHOTO: John Borren/Sun Media

Fond farewells as Mr Barthow retires

By Matthew Farrell

Staff and parents have farewelled teacher John Barthow, who has decided to retire after 20 years at Omokoroa No 1 School and 44 years in education

Among well-wishers at a celebratory lunch on Saturday 10th December was 49-year-old James Beddowsa student in the first class John taught at Papamoa Primary in 1979

“I feel a warmth and lovely affection for a really sunny-hearted teacher I’m here through a link with John’s wife, Wendy, because I have worked in the photocopy centre at Toi Ohomai for the past 20 yearswhere she’s been an adult tourism and travel student “His self-denying service and love for others have been admirable He’s had a single-hearted focus and deserves glowing praise Singing in class would be a memory, chanting Maori vowel sounds even in the late 70s That acceptance was part of my schooling DNA,” says James

Past principal Chris Broadhurst says John has been dedicated to the job and the commitment he made to children learning

“He’s always been passionate and thorough and set himself very high standards He’s one of the best organisers I ever worked with; he’d have the whole week planned,” says Chris

Current principal Craig Pentecost says he greatly re-

By John Collier Ōmokoroa Community Gardens

The Romans gave us Janus, the twoheaded god of thresholds, portals and doorways, to remind us to reflect on what has been and to prepare us for what is coming next

A year of elongated Covid, milder weather and the unrelenting sub-tropical damp of a soggy springtime punctuated

After eight schools, 50-odd student teachers, and

about four million minutes of teaching, John says his most important achievement would be teaching more than 1,000 pupils

“The time has come to move on I haven’t left school since I was five, 61 years ago For the past 20 years, I have enjoyed working with great, dedicated staff With supportive, caring parents and wonderful students The job has been made so much easier having such a great team on my teaching journey,” says John

About sixty people gathered to hear the farewell speeches, poems, tributes, memories, and the news that John is already on the list of relieving teachers for 2023

New Years resolutions

by one destructive polar blast that took out my spuds has also given us the successful completion of the Polytunnel and a space to raise seedlings over next winter

So it’s time to forward plan and safeguard our gardens and plants

My resolutions this year are the three M’s of Mulching Moisture and More compost-making (with a first reserve resolution of Mowing less )

Despite the soggy weather, the best protection for the soil and its diverse microculture is to protect it from searing heat with layers of mulch to keep the moisture in I put everything organic and plantbased through my lawn mower to create a fine tilth of fresh material that will keep the plants protected and will slowly rot down to make in situ compost

We haven’t been using the sprinklers

much, and if you haven’t already done so, try to gather as much rainwater as you can for early morning and late evening watering As we harvest in the gardens, we start the slower process of chopping up stalks and making our next compost bed for distribution around the beds in winter We are open every day, and volunteers are welcome every Thursday and Saturday morning

spects John for sticking at it and dedicating his time and efforts to so many students Craig thanked John for his work as a team leader, deputy principal and special needs coordinator

Principal Craig Pentecost farewells John Barthow PHOTO: Matthew Farrell

Pupils Aarna Olivia and James say goodbye to Mr Barthow

PHOTO: Rae O Hara

Te Pura the taniwha

This year Te Puna kindergarten has been exploring our local story of Te Pura the taniwha Te Pura is the taniwha that lives in the Wairoa River, and some cheeky men from the pā decided to steal her eggs But she didn’t get revenge, instead, the pā adopted her as their guardian

Earlier on in the year, the children illustrated a book so that we could learn more about Te Pura, and as the year progressed, Whaea Cat turned this story into a play just in time for our Christmas party

Collaboration for this play has been immense, with whānau sharing their painting and prop-making expertise The children have been a part of knitting, costume design and creating and back-

drop creation It really has been a big project, one embraced by all Children, alongside the teaching team, have created a chant and adapted a waiata to go along with the play, and it will all come together the Thursday before Christmas for our show in front of all the whānau Article supplied

Speed Shear back for 2023

By Maree Morton

Te Puna Speed Shear is a non-profit event that has been running for 22 years Formed in 1999 by John Dalziel and a group of Te Puna locals, the Speed Shear competition raises money for local charities

It is run by a small committee of volunteers who donate their time and efforts, with many coming back year after year Some have been there from the beginning This group believes in ‘community spirit’ and is looking forward to the 2023 event, especially as so many events have been cancelled over the past few years

The date is set, 11th February 2023, and it will take place at The Point Ale House in Plummers Point Road, kicking off at 5 30pm

On the night, you will see some of the top New Zealand shearers Hopefully, some visiting shearers from overseas will come to compete against each other to take home some of the prize money Many returning competitors work through the year to improve their times

In your backyard...

from past competitions

This is an event that people have on their calendar each year, and in the past, there have been times recorded of under 16 seconds which is amazing! We have also had other times of 17 and 18 seconds; that is shearing at its best

The lambs come from up the Minden, with Gary Sobye doing all the preparation to have the lambs there ready and waiting It is not an easy job to have 100 lambs as a line, so we ’ re grateful to Gary for all his work

The money raised in 2023 will be going to a local Kindy and the local food banks to help them support our local families Entry into the event will be a gold coin or a can for the food bank

On the night, there will be raffles and silent auctions, so grab a bunch of friends and come along and watch some of the top shearers

If you have any questions in regards to this event, feel free to contact me, Maree Morton, via our Facebook event page: Te Puna Speed Shear 2023

Whether it’s our active lear ning in nature’s playground with big outdoor areas and bush walk adventures or watching our amazing kindergarten teachers and home based educators in action you’ll find plenty to inspire you when you pop in for a visit to one of our kindergartens or home based educator’s homes Get in touch today and find out why local families love Inspired Kindergartens and Home Based Education.

Home Based Education

Kinderg artens

Shearers at the 2020 event which raised money for Assistance Dogs NZ Trust

PHOTO: Matthew Farrell

Tamariki have learned new skills alongside teachers and whānau PHOTOS: Supplied

New nest for Forest Project

The Aongatete Forest Project has marked the official opening of a newly extended kōhanga, or ‘nest’, with a functional classroom space, enlarged storage facility and improved amenities

A hearty morning tea celebration followed the formalities and speeches on Wednesday 30th November

AFP has gratefully acknowledged all of the supporters who have made the project possible, in particular major funders Western Bay District Council and TECT

What follows is an abridged version of trustee David Peters’ speech on the day:

The Aongatete Forest Restoration Trust was a joint initiative between Tauranga Forest and Bird and Katikati Rotary and registered with the newly formed Charities Commission in 2006 We welcome some original and past trustees here today - the tīpuna of our Trust.

Their hard work set the foundation on

which we rest Thank you for starting us up and for all your mahi over the years

The primary goal of the Trust is “to ensure the long term protective management of the native vegetation and fauna of the Aongatete Forest ”

Our work is primarily based on animal pest control and the results have been outstanding Native manu such as riflemen, robin, kākā and the NZ falcon are found here now and whitehead have been spotted too We have several plants here that are now rare in the Kaimai, including pikirangi, green mistletoewhose name has been given to the short road below us, from Wright Road to here Alive at Aongatete is our slogan

In 2005, there was no permanent base here for the dedicated and determined founders A donated garden shed was set up in a local farm paddock, but after several months it was wrecked by a huge storm.

Subsequently a trailer was set up with

the prerequisites to support baiting and trapping operations and this had to be towed up each time a volunteer day was held

In 2014, the WBoPDC and the Lion Foundation provided funds for the construction of a permanent structure here Basil Graeme did the hard work to get the building designed and constructed and subsequently, the kōhanga was opened in March 2015

It provides support for logistics, space to read maps, check gear, eat cake, drink chai and tell tall stories It has become our campfire So why have we expanded it now?

We’re the victim of our own success and there’s a growing demand for access to forest which is largely comparatively intact

We want people to know what a healthy forest looks like so they will understand the urgency of pest control for all of the ngahere Every day we prevari-

cate on this issue we lose more of what have

Although we have always supported day visits by groups, we had completely outgrown the existing shed and single long drop We had to institute a booking system between AFP, Aongatete Outdoor Education Centre, and BCA a couple of years ago

We’ve had to put in a solar power system and a WiFi communications link, for the weather station and the webcam We are looking forward to having more groups, here but we haven’t made the place too comfortable It is a staging post, not a destination

I’d like to thank our architect, Geoff Richards of Apata Architects, and our builder, Brian Sampson of Katikati, for their dedication to what has been a long project over a difficult period

And finally I’d like to thank my fellow trustees, our funders, Ngāi Tamawhariua and DOC for their patience, and trust

PHOTOS: Supplied

Avo good time at the festival

By Fiona Powell

The highlight of the local summer event calendar, the Katikati Avocado Food and Wine Festival, is happening on Saturday, 14th January 2023, at the Uretara Domain from noon til 6pm

Katikati, the Avocado Capital of New Zealand, has hosted the festival since January 2004, drawing crowds from all over the Bay of Plenty and beyond

“The Katikati Avocado Food and Wine Festival always delivers a good time, delicious food and superb wine, and the 2023 event will be another unmissable event,” says Jacqui Knight, event organiser for the Funfest Charitable Trust. “The festival is such a great opportunity to sit back, or get up and dance, while settling into the summer holiday vibe Everyone relaxes and has a great time, and leaves with a smile on their face We all deserve that after the last couple of years ”

The event is family-friendly, with a pop-up playground for the kids, plus there are cooking demonstrations with chef Shane Yardley and a diverse and delicious range of food and beverage vendors catering to everyone ’ s tastes

“Remember, food and drink are not permitted to be taken into the festival venue as our vendors have you covered,” says Jacqui “A diverse style of food and drink is offered from mocktails to craft beer, to ice creams,

Mexican, Indian and Kiwi kai and a whole lot more ”

The line-up of live music for 2023 promises to get everyone grooving to some cool Kiwi sounds Playing from noon are modern rockabillies Boom Boom Deluxe At 2 20pm The Lady Killers, featuring New Zealand’s favourite female vocalists Tina Cross, Suzanne Lynch and Jackie Clarke, hit the stage with harmonised hits from Queen, The Beatles, Neil Young, Neil Finn and Dolly Parton From 4 30pm The Jordon Luck Band plays the best of all those iconic Exponents tracks we know

and love as well as a collection of the band’s favourite Kiwi classics

“Invite your family and friends to visit for the festival day and treat them to a first-class event right here in Katikati,” says Jacqui “An afternoon of upbeat, dancealong music as well as mouth-watering food and sumptuous wine from local vendors, shared with great company, is the perfect way to enjoy a summer ’ s day ”

Tickets and info available from katikatiavofest co nz Tickets are also available from The Arts Junction, 36 Main Road, Katikati and at the gate on the day

January 2022 festival goers

Plenty of varied kai vendors

Kids entertainment PHOTOS: Supplied

Jordan Luck Band

Shane Yardley cooking demonstrations

By Nicole Dixon Mind Your Movement Pilates

id you know 80% of us will quit

new year ’ s resolutions by February? So perhaps let’s stop calling them resolutions and start calling them exercise goals for 2023

As a society, when it comes to our longterm health goals, I have no doubt they are to live a healthy, happy life with a long health span So let’s create smaller goals to achieve that long-term one

My top five tips to create exercise and health goals are:

Number 1 Choose the right goal for you First, ask yourself a few questions to figure out the right goal For example, what does a typical week look like? What time of the day could you fit exercise in? What sort of exercise do you like to do? Is it normally indoors or outdoors? Do you like to exercise with people or by yourself ? Do you prefer to exercise when it’s competitive?

Number 2 Tell people about your

goals The best way to be accountable to a goal is to share it with someone Better yet, find somebody with a common goal and achieve it together

Number 3 Turn your exercise goal into a habit It takes 66 days for a new behaviour to become automatic; once it does, it won’t feel like a chore; it will become a habit

Number 4 Don’t give up if you fall off the wagon When it comes to exercise goals, everybody trips up Whether it’s because of an injury, sickness, or life getting in the way, there’s no reason to give up, simply reassess, make a new plan and get back into it

Number 5 Be patient As a society, we tend to want things right now When it comes to health and exercise, there is no magic quick fix This teaches us a good lesson; what you put in is what you get out And if you want to feel stronger, more resilient, more capable, and live a life with generally good health, then you must have some exercise goals in place

Ōmokoroa tennis

By Jeff Warren and Charmaine Joubert

At the tennis courts last Saturday, somebody reported seeing an egg on the way in, but that wasn’t the only egg-sighting thing to happen!

On Saturday 3rd December, we held our Christmas club day ‘do’ Sixteen of us took part in a fast four fun competition, with the majority of us running around in Christmas-themed fancy dress and Thunderbird outfits whilst rocking out to some fab Christmas toons It’s a long time ago now, but I seem to remember that ‘net cord’ Kevin Goddard and Tim ‘that ball was in’ Dunn were the men ’ s winners, and the ladies’ winners were Sharon ‘she plays better when it’s darker’ Parker and Ellen ‘the hit woman ’ Haynes Prizes for the costumes were ‘luck shot’ Liz Megchelse and Zoe ‘bad shot’ Bartlett Well done to you all

It was nice on Tuesday to see two nonmembers turn up to our club night and take part with a view to joining It’s something that you (yes, I’m talking to you who is going to over-indulge over Christmas) might want to do to run off the excess baggage

Our junior inter-club tennis team has made some awesome progress this term Of our team of seven players, three had never played inter-club before but have learned quickly and improved every week. The boys have all had awesome rallies, and there have been a few nailbiting matches played Seeing their progress and watching them having fun on the courts has been wonderful Well done, boys, for a great first part of the season

On behalf of all of us at the Ōmokoroa Community Tennis Club, have a very happy Christmas and a great new year

Christmas-themed fast four fun competition PHOTO: Supplied

The Old Library Ōmokoroa –it’s your place

By Alison Badger

Another year comes to a close –where did those 12 months go?

Looking back over our activities for the past two years, we ’ re thrilled to have achieved such diverse exhibitions featuring locals and internationally acclaimed professionals We have done our bit to promote various good causes and also managed to pay all our bills What next for TOLO?

Despite all the disruption Covid brought to our lives, we have maintained an encouraging number of visitors each month Have you been one of them? Why not pop in and see what we are up to; if you have time on your hands, you could become a volunteer and welcome our visitors to this growing community asset

Thanks to a successful Community Match Fund application, we are now part of the digital generation Our webpage is coming together nicely, and we can host Zoom events Thanks to Ben at Shotbro

for installing this Get in touch if you would like to utilise our meeting room or gallery for your meeting

The amazing John D Wilson is displaying his 3D and surrealist art until midJanuary, when Jeff Brown, co-founder of London-based Breed Media, which specialises in superyacht photography, takes over until February Don’t miss these opportunities to see what talented folk live amongst us

We are very optimistic about the coming year and anticipate being able to promote yet more artists in the gallery, in addition to hosting local craftspeople to sell their work

We will be open on reduced hours over the holiday period, closing at 4pm on the 23rd December for the stat holidays

Open Tuesday-Fridays 10am-noon Christmas week and New Year’s week We will be back to our regular hours (10am-2pm Tuesday-Sunday) from 10th January

Contact Alison on 021 294 9294 for further information

Ōmokoroa roading Q&A

By Matthew Farrell

We have received a few queries from the public regarding the roading network in and around Ōmokoroa I have put these questions to Council Here are the responses Why is the west side of the new pedestrian/cycle bridge over the railway at Settlers’ Hall closed, and when will it be reopened?

Western Bay of Plenty District Council Engineering and Special Projects Manager Raj Sumeran says, “contractors are completing the end of the retaining wall Unfortunately, the current bad weather has delayed the finishing of this work It will be completed as soon as the contractors are able to get back out on site, but [at the time of writing] this is weather dependant”

When will the paths on both sides of the southern approach to the bridge be brought up to a typical urban standard? Personally, I have punctured a bicycle tyre

here If this work relates to the SH2 intersection project, that seems a bit bizarre

Raj Sumeran says, “the concreting of the gravel patches on both sides of the southern approach to Ōmokoroa bridge will be completed mid to end of January 2023”

Talking of the SH2 intersection, is this Council statement still accurate? “Construction on the first stage may begin as early as the 22/23 construction season, with completion in 2025 ”

A Council spokesperson tells Lizard News, “Yes, this is still accurate Deputy CEO Gary Allis has advised there will be some preliminary works getting underway in February, which the public will be able to see, such as vegetation removal This builds on early investigation work to inform detailed design, including topography surveying, service location and geotechnical testing We anticipate having the final design approved mid-2023 ”

John D Wilson’s art boggles the brain and confuses the eyes He is in residence until mid-January

Mrs Townsend of Ōmokoroa Point School brought her class of young artists to see the amazing Godwits exhibition and the 3D art of John D Wilson PHOTOS: Supplied

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

Dave Hume swimming pool in Katikati is open for the summer season Check times/sessions at www davehumepoolkk com or contact 549 1069

MONDAYS

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

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

omokoroa@playcentre org nz

Pilates Ōmokoroa Sports Pavilion 9 1510 15am Contact Claudia 021 192 7706

Katikati Bowling Club Combined Roll Up 9 30am Names in before 9 15am 2x4x2

format Coaching available 8 Park Road, Katikati 07 549 0103

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

Ōmokoroa Indoor Bowls 1pm for 1 30pm play Ōmokoroa Settler’s Hall Contact Ruth Hamilton 571 1564

Bolivia Katikati Christian Centre, Henry Road 1-4pm Some knowledge of canasta useful but not essential Contact Christine Sherriff 549 5601 or 027 434 9842

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 omokoroabridgeinvs@gmail com

Yoga for Men 5 15-6 30 pm Katikati Community Centre Call Gerry 021 050 8419

IGIRLZ Fun adventure and learning for girls 8 - 11 6-7 30pm Ōmokoroa Community Church Hall Call 548 2515

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

Pilates Mat class Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 67pm Contact Nicole 022 409 7109

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-d at Te Puna School Hall 67 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 Kevin 027 273 5655

Te Puna Quarry Park clearing, planting and weed control from 8am and from 1 30pm

Contact Shirley on 552 2707

Ōmokoroa Playcentre Behind Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 9am-noon omokoroa@playcentre org nz

Te Puna Playcentre 9am-1pm term times only 225 Te Puna Road te puna@playcentre org nz

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 Tamryn on 576 5387 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 Contact Marilyn on 027 630 4063 or Anne 548 0763

Keep on your Feet strength & balance for older adults 10 15-11 15am Catholic Church Hall, 89 Beach Road, Katikati Sharnie 021 111 8617

Keep on your Feet seated fitness for older adults 11 30-noon 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 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 at Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 4–5 30pm One free trial class Contact: Karin 548 1787 or baysyoga@xtra co nz Ōmokoroa Tennis Club 6-8pm Contact Sharon Parker on 027 261 9517 Ōmokoroa Indoor Bowls 6 30pm for 7pm play Ōmokoroa Settler’s Hall Contact Ruth Hamilton 571 1564

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

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

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 $5 Contact Jill 021 408 660

or Facebook page: Ōmokoroa Artists

Adults Dance & Move 12 30pm St Peter s Church, Beach Road, Katikati Many styles of fun dance Contact Gaye on 577 1753 or 027 274

8753 gayehemsley@gmail com

Katikati Toy Library 2 30pm-4pm at the back of the Christian Centre on Henry Rd, Katikati

FB: ‘Katikati Toy Library’ text 027 551 5589 or E: katikatitoylibrary@gmail com

Grow On Seedlings Club Katikati Community Centre 3-4pm 1st & 3rd Wednesdays of month, term time Intro to gardening for children aged 6-10 years Call Janet 021 0236 7038

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 021 506 855 or tptennisclub@gmail com

Pilates Mat class Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 6-7pm Contact Nicole 022 409 7109

Ōmokoroa Tennis Club 6-8pm Contact

Sharon Parker on 027 261 9517

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 Free entry All welcome Pick Up/Drop Off Service and shower facilities available 549 0399 Recommence 9th February

Pickleball at Waihī Beach Community Centre 9 30-11am Bats balls courts and nets provided $3 per session Call Phil on 021 624 908

Ōmokoroa Playcentre Behind Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 9am-noon omokoroa@playcentre org nz

Tai Chi 9 30-11 00am Te Puna Memorial Hall Contact David 027 222 2824

Tai Chi 9 30-10 30am Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall Contact Marilyn on 027 630 4063 or Anne 548 0763

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

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

Western Bay Museum Guided Tour 11am WBOP residents and ratepayers FREE 32 Main Rd, Katikati Ph 07 549 0651

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

Rummikub at Katikati Bowling Club 8 Park Rd, Katikati 1pm start, $3 per person

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

Line Dancing Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall Beginners 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, term time from 7-8:30pm Contact Jan Murray 027 286 1552, Alison Badger 548 1544

Katikati Concert Band 7-9pm, Katikati Bowling Club We welcome all ages and experience Contact Eryl 021 404 163

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

omokoroabridgeinvs@gmail com

Katikati Toastmasters Club Communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater selfconfidence and personal growth 7 30pm on 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursdays at Community Centre, Beach Road Contact 544 5989

FRIDAYS

Social Tennis Waihī Beach Tennis Club 8 30/ 9 am start All year Casual & new players welcome Call Kevin 027 273 5565

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

Ladies Singles Tennis 9am at Ōmokoroa Tennis Club, Western Ave, Ōmokoroa Enjoy some competitive but fun games Line Dancing Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall General session 9am-noon Call Shirley on 548 1633

Ōmokoroa Playcentre Behind Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 9am-12 30pm omokoroa@playcentre org nz

Preschool Storytime Read Sing Move at 10am at Ōmokoroa Library Caregivers, please stay with your children Free to attend Justice of the Peace clinic 10am-noon Bethlehem Community Church, 138 Moffat Road

Justice of the Peace clinic 10am-noon Katikati Community Centre, 45 Beach Road Ōmokoroa Friendship Club Ōmokoroa Community Church Hall 10am-12 15pm for $4 Morning tea and lunch provided Drop in or call Lorraine Taylor 548 1404

Omokoroa Singles over 60s meet for friendship, coffee, outings, etc Email Omokoroa Senior Singles@gmail com or phone 021 627 107

Waihī Beach Bowls at Memorial RSA Bowling Club Roll-up, names in by 12 30 for 1 o ’clock start All welcome Bowls and coaching available Contact 021 0220 4040, 027 863 1349, waihibeachbowls@gmail com

Bolivia Cards Ōmokoroa Bowling Club 12 45pm Contact Janet on 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 Bowling Club Combined Roll Up 2 00pm Names in before 1 45pm Coaching available Social club day activities to follow 8 Park Road, Katikati 07 549 0103

Katikati Plant & Produce Market A&P Showgrounds 3 30-5 30pm Contact Pauline Van Rijen 549 2449

SATURDAYS

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

Katikati Toy Library 9-10am at the back of the Christian Centre on Henry Rd Katikati

FB: ‘Katikati Toy Library’, text 027 551 5589 or

E: katikatitoylibrary@gmail com

Friends of Cooney Reserve 9am Bring sturdy footwear and gloves, and tools if you wish

Contact Chris Cole (text only) 0274 545 586

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 omokoroatoylibrary@gmail com

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

2 00pm Names in before 1 45pm Coaching available Social club day activities to follow 8 Park Rd, Katikati 07 549 0103

Boomerang Bags Katikati Sew reusable fabric community shopping bags Txt Robyn on 021 158 4038 to join or donate fabric Every other Saturday from 9th April at Katikati College

Fabric Tech Room from 1pm Masks required Ōmokoroa Tennis Club 2-4pm Contact Sharon Parker on 027 261 9517

SUNDAYS

Athenree Homestead 360 Athenree Road

Enjoy the homestead and gardens ($5 donation for Homestead entry) Every Sunday, 11am-3pm from Jan–April athenreehomestead org nz

Ōmokoroa Cricket 20 overs from 1pm every second Sunday at Western Ave BYO picnic

FB: @omokoroacricket

Movie Matinee 1 30pm at the Arts Junction

Katikati Tickets $10 Limited seats 549 5250

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

Year-round swimming in Ōmokoroa interest you? Contact Russell on 021 153 0767 or mothcork@gmail com for more information You are welcome to join us and swim for health and well-being

Wed Jan 4th 10K Fun Run Coastguard HQ, Bowentown Run/walk from Bowentown Coastguard to Waihī Beach Lifeguard Club 9am registration at Coastguard 10am race starts FB @waihibeachsurflifesavingclub

Thu 5th Ōmokoroa Peninsula Club 1st Thursday of the month, 9 30am, Ōmokoroa Community Church (excl Dec/Jan) Contact Geoff Gripton 548 1027 or Fred Hartley 548 1939

Fri 6th Katikati Blood Drive 9am-1pm at Katikati Memorial Hall Bring ID with you, and eat/drink beforehand 0800 448 325

Fri 6th Sand modelling competition Waihī Beach Lifeguard Club 10am registration 11am start FB @waihibeachsurflifesavingclub

Fri 6th 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

Sat 7th Waihī Beach summer fair Wilson Park, Citrus Ave Live music, 200+ stalls, fun for children, delicious food 10am-4pm $5 cash entry, children under 5 free FB @waihibeachsummerfair

Sat 7th Grow On Katikati Crop Swap Swap excess produce, seeds, seedlings, preserves, jams, baking etc 1st Saturday of the month Garden shed beside Katikati Community Centre on Beach Rd, 9 30-10 30am Call Jizzy on 549 2337 or Marie on 07 9297906

Sat 7th Katikati Twilight Concert NZ Eagles Tribute Show 6pm, Haiku Reserve, 60 Main St, Katikati Tickets $25

Sun 8th Sunday Scribblers Working on memoirs Fun writing exercises to warm up 2nd Sunday of each month 11am-12 30pm Chrome Cafe, 3 Wharawhara Road, Katikati Contact Gaye on gayehemsley@gmail com 577 1753 or 027 274 8753

Mon 9th Te Puna Indoor Bowls Te Puna Memorial Hall at 6 45 pm for a 7-9 pm evening of social games and coaching if you wish 2nd Monday of the month First two months free Contact Jo Gravit 027 552 6063

Tue 10th Ōmokoroa Photography Club Ōmokoroa Sports Pavilion Social Room All

levels welcome 7-9pm on 2nd Tuesday of the month omokoroaphotoclub@gmail com

Wed 11th U3A Katikati monthly meeting 10am-noon in the Digital Hub next to the Library on 2nd Wednesday each month Call Pam Mazoyer 021 104 2925

Wed 11th 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 11th Katikati Herb Society Every 2nd Wednesday at 7pm at St Paul’s church Contact Fiona 022 684 5178

Thu 12th Friends of Puketoki Trapping/checking every 2nd Thursday Meet at Leyland Road carpark Call John Budden 548 1180 or Terry Edwards 552 6222

Thu 12th Ōmokoroa Business Network meeting 9am on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month Details available at omokoroabusinessnetwork@gmail com

Thu 12th Katikati Genealogy Group 2nd Thursday, Presbyterian Church Hall, 1 Mulgan Street at 1 30pm $5 New members welcome Contact Jeanette 027 348 3259

Fri 13th 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

Sat 14th Katikati Tramping Club Woodlands Road to Waitawheta Hut 12 steam crossings 7 hours Phone Laraine 021 0737 084

Sat 14th Katikati Moggies Market Second Saturday each month 9am to 12pm Katikati Memorial Hall Your local monthly market Support local, buy local E: moggiesmarket21@gmail com

Sat 14th Patchwork Quilting at Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 9am-4 30pm second Saturday each month Contact Christine 027 280 1344

Sat 14th Katikati Avocado Food and Wine Festival Noon-6pm, Uretara Domain Tickets $55 from the gate or www katikatiavofest co nz

Sun 15th Katikati Folk Club Jam sessions 5pm 3rd Sunday of the month Informal jam sessions at Forta Leza, 2656 SH2, Aongatete

Sun 15th Friendship Force Ōmokoroa Setters Hall 3rd Sunday evening of the month Ph Jonathan on 572 2091

Mon 16th 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 16th 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 17th Book Buzz Share your favourite reads with other book lovers 10am every 3rd Tuesday at Ōmokoroa Library

Tue 17th Innovation Garden Club 1 303pm every 3rd Tuesday Waihī Beach RSA Contact 027 289 7674 or innovationgardenclub@gmail com

Wed 18th Aongatete Forest Project working bee Top of Wright Road 9am12 30pm 1st and 3rd Wednesday morning of the month Visit aongateteforest org/join

Wed 18th Business After Five 5 15pm A different location on the 3rd Wednesday each month, 5 15-6 30pm RSVP to 07 549 5250 to check venue All welcome

Wed 18th Waste-ed Free talk by Kate Meads about making small steps to effect real change to reduce waste 5 30-7 30pm at Arts Junction Theatre Book via admin@westernbaymuseum nz or 021 113 4451

Thu 19th Genealogy support Help with research into family history and DNA searches Omokoroa Library, 3rd Thursdays 10am One-on-one help available at other times Contact Lyn on 027 259 6643 or lynevaughan@gmail com

Thu 19th Fun Mixed Doubles Ōmokoroa Tennis Club Western Ave Third Thursday of the month from 5 30-7 30pm

Fri 20th 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 20th 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

Fri 20th Live Music: Butter Won’t Melt Presented by Katikati Folk Club 7 30pm at The Arts Junction, 36 Main Rd, Katikati Tickets $25

Sat 21st Katikati Artisan Market 9am1pm Chrome Cafe, 3 Wharawhara Road, Katikati 3rd Saturday of the month

Thu 26th Ōmokoroa Business Network meeting 9am on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month Details available at omokoroabusinessnetwork@gmail com

Thu 26th 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

Sat 28th Katikati Lions Garage Sale 9amnoon at the containers behind Caltex, Main Rd Indoor & outdoor furniture tools & more 4th Saturday Call David 027 549 0168

Sat 28th Ōmokoroa Markets 9am to noon Last Saturday each month except Dec Crafts, art, produce, bbq, plants, car boot and much more E: omokoroamarket@gmail com

Sat 28th Katikati Twilight Concert Country Rock 6pm, Haiku Reserve, 60 Main St, Katikati Tickets $25

Sat 28 & Sun 29th The Great Waihī Beach Scavenger Hunt 3 chances to win $750, $500 or $250 Held over 2 days, up to 5 per team, 12 challenges Limited to 100 teams Register at waihibeachinfo co nz/events

Sun 29th Katikati Tramping Club Lund Road Sentinel Rock Easy 4 hours Phone Grant 0274 750 556

Sun 29th Pest Trap Library at the container next to Whakamārama Hall 3-5pm Last Sunday of the month

Wed 1st February 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 February Waihī Beach FOCUS Group 10am at Waihī Beach RSA Interesting speakers, interesting conversation and of course interesting people Every 1st Wednesday

Fri 3rd February Frank Burkitt Band Katikati Folk Club Doors open 7pm for 7 30pm start Members $20, casual $25 Children free Book online or pay Eftpos or cash on the door katikatifolkclub co nz

Sun 5th February Katikati A&P Show Uretara Domain 9am-4pm

Slotcar Club Ōmokoroa to race club class saloons Controllers and cars will be provided for all drivers Contact Steve Wall on 021 163 2055 for dates/times

Todd talk

By Todd Muller MP Bay of Plenty

Meri Kirihimete from the Mayor

By Mayor James Denyer

Michelle

ers a ve

Hopefu good break, an been what you your garden ne a great couple ing time with m around the co from overseas t great to reconn old friends who n’t get home d last year ’ s bo closures Thank you those of you w have worke through the ho idays You are the people who made it possible for the Bay of Plenty to host holidaymakers from all over New Zealand and abroad. Your good cheer and welcoming smiles are what make this area so popular for visitors

There have been many conversations in the community over the last few weeks as I’ve met people at the beach, in cafes and at events People are really focused on the cost of living now that the Christmas expenses are rolling in They are worried about what the coming year holds, and they are hopeful that it includes a change in economic direction

I want to assure readers that I, with my National colleagues, will do everything I can to bring about the political change that New Zealand needs The sooner we get started, the sooner we can repair the economic damage wrought by five years of mismanagement

My team will be back at work from Monday, the 16th of January We look forward to working for you, and with you, in 2023

As Mayor of the Western Bay, it is a great privilege to be delivering this Christmas message to everyone right across our District

It’s fantastic to see the festive spirit well and truly alive, and I enjoyed sharing in the fun and excitement of both the Katikati and Te Puke Santa Parades earlier this month

2022 has been a big year for everyone, dealing with the ongoing impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and the volatile economic environment (increasing inflation and interest rates)

As a Council, we faced these same challenges, navigating the pressure on our operations and finances to keep our District thriving and enhancing it for future generations

The Western Bay has shown great resilience in the face of such challenges, and I am proud of how our people have adapted and are moving forward in the new environment

We’ve achieved some key wins for the District too Some highlights for me are:

Securing $38 million from the Infrastructure Acceleration Fund to upgrade the State Highway 2 / Ōmokoroa Road intersection

Going ‘fines free’ on overdue library books at all our libraries – joining a nationwide movement aiming to see increased library membership and better

literacy outcomes

Launching two mobile recycling trailers that go to rural communities who don’t have access to our Kerbside Collective service – delivering on a commitment to help our rural communities with their waste minimisation efforts

Awarding 36 community groups and organisations funding through our annual $140k Community Matching Fund for community and environmental projects that make a positive difference in our District As well as $74k awarded to five community groups upgrading community facilities not on public land

Christmas is an important time of year to switch off, relax and recharge while enjoying some quality time with friends and whānau

Whether that’s chilling out at one of our pristine beaches, checking out the sights along any one of our incredible cycleways or just relaxing at home, I encourage you all to fill this time with happiness

Meri Kirihimete me ngā mihi i te wā I wish everyone a Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year and a relaxing break

And I look forward to connecting and working with you all in 2023

•

•

•

•

Merry Christmas from the Mayor PHOTO: Supplied

Happy New Year from Minnows Kindergarten

Generous giving at end of year meeting of Creative Fibre

Creative Fibre Pahoia branch, which meets fortnightly at the Settlers’ Hall, Ōmokoroa, celebrated the end of their crafting year by collecting a range of items for donation to the Community Support and Crafting Collective Bay of Plenty

“Our members have put together a range of knitted and crocheted items which the Collective will be able to redistribute to organisations in the Bay working with those in need The items ranged from jackets and hats for babies to lap blankets and hats for adults,” says Frances Kelly, the branch president for 2023 “We know that the Crafting Collective has contacts with all the community support groups and know our items will go where they’re needed ”

“In the past, I’ve seen items I’ve made go to Age Concern, Cancer Support groups, and the newborn babies unit at Tauranga Hospital It’s great to know that the Collective works with groups such as these to ensure items go to the right places ”

One of the highlights of 2022 for the club was an exhibition at TOLO, the Old Library Ōmokoroa It offered an opportunity to introduce our work to the local community

By The Minnows Team

Another year at Minnows Kindergarten has come to an end, but we are looking forward to 2023

We are currently planning some exciting changes, including a new baby area and introducing home-prepared and cooked lunches for our tamariki And, of course, lots of fun and educational curriculum activities, community walks and visits

We will be open over the holiday period (not including stat days), and we

are currently taking new enrolments for 0 - 5-year-olds, so please pop in to see us to talk about the benefits of a small homely ECE Centre in the heart of Ōmokoroa with experienced and caring staff and teachers

We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Ōmokoroa community and our wonderful children and families for all your support in 2022 and to wish you all happy holidays and a very Merry Christmas, Hari Kirihimete, Natal Mubarak and we can’t wait to see you all in the New Year

Creative Fibre will begin its meetings for 2023 at 10am on 17th January The club welcomes everyone interested in working with fibre – knitters, crocheters, felters, weavers, spinners and dyers Some members come for the fun of working on crafts with like-minded others, while others come because they want to learn new skills and crafts Still, others come for the challenges of competing in regional and national competitions We make several spinning wheels and weaving looms available to learners and lots of the tools and supplies for preparing and dyeing fibres

The club has a specialised library with books and periodicals covering all these crafts Members are welcome to borrow them for use at home

If you’d like to know more, please contact Club President Frances Kelly, at franceskellynz@gmail com

Article supplied

Having lunch at Cooney Reserve just a short walk from the kindergarten PHOTO: Supplied

A selection of items gifted to charity by Pahoia Creative Fibre PHOTOS: Supplied

Bookworms and sonic sleuths assemble

Have you got an avid bookworm or sonic sleuth on the lookout for an exciting summer reading challenge? Western Bay of Plenty District Libraries has got them sorted with its BOB Squad programme

BOB Squad is a free take-home reading challenge aimed at primary school-aged tamariki, with this year ’ s theme being ‘Sonic Sleuths’, putting a sound and music twist on encouraging children to grow their reading skills

Council’s Customer Services Manager Valeta Duncan says BOB Squad is a much-loved feature of the libraries’ summer schedule

“We’re looking forward to seeing local tamariki getting creative with the musical theme this year – they’ll be having so much fun they won’t even know that they’re learning

“Programmes like BOB Squad are fantastic, as they allow us to connect with young people and help to bring more whānau into our libraries, taking advantage of all we have to offer,” says Valeta Your missions, should you choose to accept them

Step one: Collect a booklet at your local library Inside your booklet, you’ll find 14 interactive missions to complete by 23rd January

Scott says

By Hon Scott Simpson MP For Coromandel

No doubt everyone is enjoying the summer and the chance to spend time with friends and family in the beautiful Western Bay of Plenty The Christmas and New Year break is a chance to reflect on the past year and prepare for the challenges ahead in 2023 Unfortunately, it looks like we will continue to grapple with a cost-of-living crisis and mortgage holders may be in for a particularly tough time

In terms of politics, 2023 is going to be jam-packed as we head for a general election and the Government attempts to push through the last policies on its agenda

The general election will be a contest

of ideas focused largely on Labour’s lack of delivery over the last six years Our economy is in poor shape Government spending is out of control, contributing to inflation reaching a 30-year record high A crime wave is sweeping the whole country, and our region is impacted as much as any other People want the practical, sensible, and effective solutions being offered by Chris Luxon and National

We’re fortunate to live in a functioning democracy People will have an opportunity to engage during the election campaign, and then they can cast their votes The sense I’m getting is that it’s time to change the government My National Party colleagues and I will be working hard every day to earn voters’ confidence

Simpson

Step two: Choose your missions and do them Complete at least one mission or three mini-missions to get an invite to one of our big finale parties

BOB Squad missions include making a musical instrument, going on a sound hunt, creating sound effects, vibrations, and sound waves, plus more

The booklet also includes 25 mini missions, such as listening to the wind in the trees or learning to whistle a tune and comes with a reading log that has checkboxes for every 10 minutes spent reading. Readers earn an entry into a draw to win a prize after every hour spent with their nose in a book

Step three: Get your missions stamped at the library by 23rd January and pick up your invitation to the finale party at Ōmokoroa Library on 25th January

The finale parties are going to be lots of fun, headlined by an exciting show from the Travelling Tuataras – a duo who bring stories alive through interactive performance using masks, colourful props, music, songs and puppets

Rangatahi, we haven’t forgotten about you Check out the Teen Summer Reading Challenge Each time you read and rate four books, you’ll be entered into the draw to win one of three $50 prezzy

cards This one is designed for Years 713, so get reading and rating.

To join the challenge, just download Beanstack from the App Store or Google Play Store and sign up with the Western Bay of Plenty Libraries Entry forms are also available on request

Other school holiday activities at our libraries include a colouring contest (with two pictures to choose from) and a take-home craft kit to make your own tambourine

These programmes have all been developed by our children’s librarians and are available at our libraries across the Western Bay of Plenty

For more info, drop into any of our libraries (Waihī Beach, Katikati, Ōmokoroa or Te Puke), give us a call on 0800 926 732 or to find out more visit libraries westernbay govt nz Article supplied

Western Bay backs better Three Waters options

when his motion to join was lost by a majority vote

By Alisha Evans Local Democracy Reporter alisha@thesun co nz

As the controversial Three Waters debate rages on, Western Bay of Plenty District Council is joining forces with other councils to come up with another solution

The council agreed “in principle” to join the local government action group Communities 4 Local Democracy (C4LD) at a meeting on Wednesday, 14th December

C4LD is made up of 31 of Aotearoa’s 67 councils, and it aims to work with the government to deliver safe drinking water while retaining local voice and meaningful partnership with mana whenua

The group opposes the Three Waters reforms, in their current form, which will see wastewater, stormwater and drinking water managed by four publicly owned entities instead of individual councils

Councillor Margaret Murray-Benge said under the reforms, the water services were “being transferred over to these huge entities that are tribal dominated, and it’s just so undemocratic”

The regional entities will be governed by a board made up of local authority members and mana whenua

“If this goes through and we do nothing, then all I know is that having had the experience of it before, we will just be walked over and will be regionalised,” said Murray-Benge

“Our ratepayers, who are so uptight about this issue, will have no say whatsoever in a bigger conglomerate

“It’s time we joined the organisation that has the community at heart ”

Councillor Murray Grainger supported joining C4LD and said many of the councillors had campaigned on their opposition to the reforms

“We would not be representing our constituents who put us around the table if we ’ re not prepared to stand up for what we believe and for what they want

“The previous council was not prepared to stand up for the people of our district on this matter”

Grainger failed to get the previous council to join C4LD in December 2021,

Councillor Grant Dally said he voted against C4LD membership a year ago because the Government was “forging ahead” with the reforms, and he wasn’t sure what the group was likely to achieve

The issues of privatisation and loss of local voice raised by the community still hadn’t been addressed, said Dally

“The four entities that are being established at the moment do lend themselves to being sold off in an asset grab

“Small and regional entities are the way forward that will retain that local voice, that will get more protection against privatisation ”

He now supported joining C4LD, saying they were the “experts on the ground”

Deputy mayor John Scrimgeour was against joining as he didn’t believe it would “have much impact” on central government

“The most likely way to achieve significant change is through a change of central government

“Given that a number of parties have indicated that they will be repealing the legislation, [if they were elected] ”

Councillor Tracey Coxhead disagreed with Scrimgeour’s stance “I don’t agree that doing nothing’s an option I believe that bad things happen because good people do nothing,” she said

Councillor Rodney Joyce “took issue” with Scrimgeour’s idea that the thing was done and dusted “This is a live issue One bill has been passed; two more are still to go ” But he agreed that “the real answer to change may well be the election ”

The Waters Services Entities Bill, the first of the three bills that will enact the reforms, was passed in parliament the week before this meeting.

Grainger said the government’s handling of this bill showed “blatant disregard for the will of the people and for the due process of rulemaking”

Mayor James Denyer said his earlier “reluctance” to join C4LD had “waned” given the changes the group made in the past year “The ability of C4LD to achieve its aims remains uncertain

“A practical alternative is yet to emerge, and that involves tradeoffs There are trade-offs in Three Waters reform, and you can’t have everything you want And that’s unfortunately what central government have to deal with ”

The council also agreed in principle to support the C4LD draft Mayoral Declaration which was crafted by the C4LD

coalition and the Mayors of Auckland and Christchurch City Councils

The mayors put forward an alternate proposal that kept part of the existing reforms, including the new water regulator, Taumata Arowai, while maintaining local ownership, control and accountability

The plan would replace four large water entities with Regional Water Organisations (RWOs), which would be unable to be sold outside local authority ownership.

The council asked staff to clarify the conditions of C4LD membership, future financial commitments, future plans and any queries with governance

Once this was complete, councillors would vote again on whether to confirm the arrangement

Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air

The council agreed in principle to join Communities 4 Local Democracy

Councillor Murray Grainger said the council need to stand up for their community

Mayor James Denyer said there are trade-offs in Three Waters reform PHOTOS: John Borren/Sun Media

Deputy Mayor John Scrimgeour was the only one who voted against joining C4LD

Anyone for tennis, badminton, table tennis - um - Pickleball?

By Phil Laurence

If you haven’t heard of Pickleball, you ’ re not alone As the fastest-growing sport in America and Canada, with over 8 million players, it’s not surprising that it has reached New Zealand

In 2020, the Waihī Beach Tennis Club decided to take Pickleball under its wing and began offering this rapidly growing sport to both its members and others in the wider community on cancelled wet tennis mornings

However, such was the keen interest in 2022, that Pickleball is now played regularly, every week, regardless of the weather An enthusiastic and growing group of players from as far afield as Whangamatā and Katikati have joined the 2000+ registered players who now play the game throughout NZ Pickleball’s popularity has been attributed to a number of factors, includ-

ing: a new player can start enjoying the sport at the first introduction, and people of varying ages and physical abilities can enjoy the game together The sport is relatively inexpensive to start playing A strong social aspect has developed within the sport Experience in other racket sports can easily transfer to pickleball Competitive players find the strategic aspects of the sport an exciting challenge

Many former tennis players find pickleball a good ‘step-down’ sport when tennis becomes too demanding

If you’d like to watch or have a go, come along to the Waihī Beach Community Centre every Thursday from 9 30 to 11am, from 19th January 2023 All equipment (bats, balls, courts, nets, etc) is provided The cost is $3 per session

Contact Gary or Doreen on 022 6871586 for further information

Win up to $750 in the great Waihī Beach scavenger hunt

By Jana Marston

Waihī Beach Community Events & Promotions is excited to announce the return of the hugely anticipated ‘The Great Waihī Beach Scavenger Hunt’

The event is free to enter and aims to showcase the picturesque beachside town while providing a fun event for the whole family The Scavenger Hunt runs over two days, the 28th and 29th of January, 2023 With a maximum of 100 teams, each team can have up to five people aged 16 years and over, plus an unlimited number of support crew under the age of 16

“For the second year running, The Great Waihī Beach Scavenger Hunt will kick off over Auckland Anniversary Weekend,” said Vicki Lambert, Events

Coordinator at Waihī Beach Events & Promotions

“Registrations for last year ’ s event were secured in record time, so this year we ’ re upping the ante and doubling the scale of the event ”

Each team must solve twelve clues/challenges around Waihī Beach and display their answers on Instagram in the form of creative photos Teams that solve all twelve clues correctly will go in the draw to be selected as one of the three teams to participate in the finale of the Hunt - the ‘Dig Off ’ The three teams in the ‘Dig Off ’ each walk away with a cash prize of either $750, $500 or $250, kindly sponsored by LJ Hooker Waihī Beach

Registrations to the Scavenger Hunt open Thursday, 22nd December and are strictly first in, first served For more information & to register, head to waihibeachinfo co nz/events

2022 Scavenger Hunt entrants completing challenges PHOTOS: Supplied

Pickleball Pioneers at Waihī Beach

Ōmokoroa MenzShed

By Peter Smith

The Ōmokoroa Menzshed has come a long way in the last year – from empty sheds to setting up their first stalls at the Ōmokoroa Market in December There, we sold various goods, from rat traps, cutting boards, corn-bag games, and plant holders, to wooden Christmas trees, tūī feeders, decorative wall lizards, and an on-site knife sharpening service

Shedders Bill Cahill, Jerry Hale, and Andrew McWilliam manned the market stall, which was well attended It was a good opportunity to talk to the public

about what the Shed does, resulting in new applications for membership being taken

The Shed has maintained a membership of about 45, and President Mike Hayden says there is a great atmosphere at the Shed Smoko is a pleasant time to enjoy each other’s company, solve the world’s problems, and welcome new members

In addition to making goods for sale, members can complete their own projects and learn new skills Some pieces of fine furniture have been made, and over the last few weeks, members have been undergoing tuition in woodturning

Te Puna Community Library: not so happily ever after

By David Parker President and Chair of the Library Committee

In 1997 – 98, at Te Puna School, a building was completed to house the Te Puna Community Library and Te Puna School Library, plus a downstairs education facility It was funded 60% by the Te Puna community and 40% by the Ministry of Education On completion, the building was vested in the Crown The Community Library has an annual Memorandum of Understanding with the School Board to occupy a portion of the building The Community Library is funded by the residents of Te Puna, who pay an annual levy of $7 in their rates demand The levy is for the purchase of new books

In March 2022, the Ministry of Education gave Te Puna School three days’ notice that the building that housed the Community and Te Puna School libraries was to be closed for renovations and repairs The roof and the exterior cladding were no longer weathertight, and there were signs of water leaking in The building was fenced off, and there was no further access

The Community Library had no warning, so all the books and shelving were locked inside A deep trench was dug separating the library entrance from the playground so that the foundations could be inspected

In August, the Ministry of Education announced that the cost estimates had escalated from $300k to $900k and, therefore, it was no longer viable to repair, and the building would be demolished There was no discussion

The Library Committee has investigated alternative sites but has been unable to find anything suitable The Ministry of Education has given no schedule for demolition, so we can only assume sooner rather than later We are in the process of removing the 6000 books and shelving as quickly as possible The committee and the Te Puna Lions Club have completed a book cull in the

process of packing, moving and storing the books 3300 books have gone into offsite storage A similar number of culled books are being resorted and distributed to any interested party

We have not been able to identify any New Zealand library or community organisation that would or could assimilate library assets of this scale The cost of storing the books and shelves indefinitely is also not financially viable

One organisation that would love to receive them all is the recently established Public Library of The Kingdom of Tonga, which is establishing a second Tongan Public Library Te Puna School is also interested in using the shelving in the new school buildings due 2024 Ōmokoroa Library is also interested in the brand new books

Sadly, the Library Committee has agreed to start the formal winding-up process Because of the unusual circumstances, the time of the year and the imminent demolition of the building, it is difficult to proceed in an orderly manner Under the Library Constitution, we need to call a public meeting of library members to formally move to wind up the library and dispose of the assets

All of us who are connected with the library are feeling very sad and horrified at the scale of waste of this community asset plus the original huge financial input by the residents of Te Puna If we can relocate some of it to Tonga, our disaster could help overcome their massive disaster as they rebuild after the volcanic eruption

Please feel free to email your thoughts to me, davidrparker123@gmail com

The public meeting will take place on 8th February at 7pm at Te Puna Memorial Hall with the sole agenda item: To formally wind up the Te Puna Community Library

Be curious and have a look at Tai Chi

By David Parker

2022 has been a year of re-establishing a new normal way of life Things are different but sort of the same

We want to get fit again and also re-establish our friendships as well as make new friends with similar interests

Not everyone is comfortable with high-energy sports, and at the same time, they identify that balance is becoming an issue that is affecting their quality of life

Those who have started practising Tai Chi slowly come to understand and appreciate the gentle nature of the exercise, and yet it restores balance and alignment

The other quality of Tai Chi is the mental exercise that engages both sides of the brain as a student learns the many different postures and joins them together

Tai Chi Internal Arts at the Te Puna Memorial Hall has regathered over the last year. Now, a happy and growing group of people are enjoying making a commitment to their health and well-being

Tai Chi Internal Arts is a non-religious, registered Incorporated Society which abides by the Incorporated Society rules The teachers and admin are all volunteers, with the $6 class fees covering the rent Any surplus generated is used for workshops and studentrelated activities

The class is Thursdays, from 9 30 to 11am with free open days (with no obligation to join) taking place on 19th and 26th January at 9 30am

You can join in or sit and watch Ask questions Get a taste and think about actively looking after yourself in the New Year See you in the new year

Contact me, David, on 027 2222824

A wide range of items for sale at Ōmokoroa Market in December PHOTO: Supplied

Waihī Beach kicks off great new festival

Waihī Beach Community Events & Promotions

were delighted with the outcome of the longplanned, twice postponed festival that came to life on Saturday 19th November

The Anzac Bay Waipaopao Summer Kick-Off Festival went ahead despite the unpredictable rain forecast and it was a magical day on the bay, attracting hundreds of visitors

The event commenced at 2pm with a karakia and welcome by Reon Tuanau and Garston Smith of Te Whānau ā Tauwhao of Ōtāwhiwhi Reon spoke of the significance of the site of Anzac Bay Waipaopao and encouraged the crowd to be kaitiaki (carers) of this beautiful whenua He also shared the stories of the Waipaopao, including how it was once named Katikati and the story of how and why Then the Waihī Beach school (kura) junior kapa haka group performed a powerful and moving performance, proud to be on the stage in their hometown and at one their favourite spots

The live music line-up started with the incredible Hamilton-based band, Looking for Alaska They covered

some crowd favourites and kicked off the festival vibe They were followed by Tauranga musos Matty Buxton and Regan Perry, whose reggae and Kiwi roots tunes perfectly complemented the chilled afternoon and setting The final act, local Waihī musician Sarah Spicer, was joined by Liam Ryan and Amir Yussoff whose soulful sounds finished off the festival

In addition, kids were entertained by fabulous yoga and art workshops that were centred around the natural ambience and setting of Anzac Bay, as well as festival face painting The outdoor food section complete with bunting and lanterns in the trees brought a real festival feel to the area

“The collaboration between Waihī Beach Events & Promotions and Te Whānau ā Tauwhao enabled the community and visitors to come together in a significant spot here at Waipaopao, to learn more of the history and celebrate the start of the summer season, ” says Reon Tuanau “The kaupapa around this event is so positive, we can encourage our tamariki to care for our whenua for the future ”

Waihī Beach Community Events & Promotions also

Ōmokoroa Boat Club sailing

By John Budden Sailing convenor

to West 10 off Matakana Island, back by way of the Te Puna channel to between the sand bar and Motuhoa Island, then to Western F on the Katikati reach, returning to D via Western E and PA 1 on the Pahoia reach

This last section from E to PA 1 was cancelled due to wind direction and tide height

The start down harbour saw Piccaninny lead out with

sails gull-winged powering down the channel, Wētā was there too, and they were followed by Goldie and Kōnini Goldie flew her black kite and took the lead with Wētā

The downwind leg was great, as it always is At Western 10, we turned into the hard work of the upwind section Goldie increased her lead and had Wētā for company Kōnini relished the upwind sail and caught Piccaninny at the turn to pass Motuhoa at Te Puna The easy sail was then on to the Motuhoa mark Piccaninny and Kōnini were in close contact until the larger yacht cleared her air and took off for F

Up ahead Wētā was first to finish, and second was Goldie showing a great turn of speed Then came stately Kōnini in third, with Piccaninny fourth A great day’s sail; well done all In the breeze, it was quite tiring

thank the following sponsors for helping them bring this event to fruition Major sponsor - Harcourts Waihī Beach, and supporting sponsors Bay Community Event Fund, Western Bay of Plenty District Council, Bowentown Beach Holiday Park, Owens Flooring, Ranger Studio, Oceana Gold, TECT, Creative Communities, Beach Road Garden Centre and Live Well Waihī Beach

They also appreciate the support of Reon Tuanau and Ōtāwhiwhi Marae; Waihī Beach kura and Liam Ryan of Torch Entertainment whose stage management skills were invaluable

The festival response was extremely positive from all visitors, with most saying they’ll definitely be back next year Article supplied

Anzac Bay Summer Kick Off PHOTO: Kiwidroneography

Summer folk lineup in Katikati

By Paul England Katikati Folk Club

Butter Wouldn’t Melt

Melting your heart with soulful stories, far-away fables and whimsical songs True to their name, Butter Wouldn’t Melt are a deceptive duo

Their sound is unmistakably influenced by the Americana greats, but dig a little deeper and lying beneath the surface of their intricate harmonies and duelling instrumentation is something much closer to home

When they sing of southern coastal clay

in “The Tunnel”, their gothic tale of murder, you could be forgiven for thinking they’re referencing the deep south of America; or for thinking the freight train rolling through their town in “Eve of 31” is headed for Galveston More often than not, their tales have sprung out of the fern-covered hills of Wellington or the dry fields of Hawkes Bay

The band sing about events of both personal and national significance to New Zealand, all through the lens of a local, with a soundtrack plucked straight out of the Ozarks

Maybe it’s the similarity in our water-

logged mountains or our dark forests that create such a fine connection to Appalachia Whatever the case, it works, and since the release of their debut album, 1931, Butter Wouldn’t Melt has been entertaining clubs, bars and festivals across the country with their unique blend of New Zealand folk music

Don’t miss our first show of 2023 on Friday 20th January Doors open at 7pm for a 7 30pm concert start Come early and get a good seat

Frank Burkitt Band

The incomparable Frank Burkitt Band returns with fresh music and energy

Four long years since their last tour, The Frank Burkitt Band are returning to Aotearoa, and to Katikati, as a strippeddown duo Older, but not much wiser, the last few years have seen Frank and Kara re-settle in the UK, release their first home-recorded album (Silvereye) and, when pandemics have allowed, perform around Britain

They haven’t stopped missing New Zealand and are ecstatic to be returning to perform their latest album live for the first time

The show will feature Frank’s most recent songs; stripped back, pensive folk ballads resulting from too much time spent with one ’ s mind and a yearning for the interaction and pace of the world that was Self-indulgent yes, but intimate, honest and heartfelt

There will also be some old favourites rearranged for guitar, voice and flute It will be an engaging night of story,

PHOTOS: Supplied

harmony and great songwriting

The Frank Burkitt Band play Katikati Friday, 3rd February

Katikati Folk Club doors open at 7pm for a 7 30pm concert start Remember, members pay only $20, and casuals pay $25 You can book online, or we accept Eftpos or cash As always, children are free

During the break, grab yourself a complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits Or, before the show starts, treat yourself to a wine or beer from our cash bar For more information, check out our website www katikatifolkclub co nz

Fate of Te Puna Community Centre decided

Te Puna Community Centre (the Centre) on Māramatanga Park is about to shut its doors for good, closing a chapter on a building that has been home to many activities and groups over the years

The decision to close and demolish the Centre was made by building owners Te Puna Community Centre committee, with technical advice and support provided by the Western Bay of Plenty District Council team But not to worry, Council is already talking with community stakeholders to learn what their needs are, to inform an investigation on the future of the site The Centre is owned and managed by Te Puna Community Centre committee and sits on Western Bay of Plenty District Council land with Council collecting targeted rates from the Te Puna community annually to service the Te Puna Community Centre and the Te Puna Memorial Hall

Recent reports revealed that the Centre needs extensive and costly repairs including black-mold removal, water damage repairs, installation of new insulation and moisture barriers, bathroom repairs, new accessibility features, rewiring, roof repairs and new windows

The repair bill was to start at $1 3 million, with more work likely to be uncovered as things progressed, and questions were asked if the existing building was worth the extensive repair bill

Council’s Strategy and Community General Manager, Rachael Davie says the Centre has had a long history in the Te Puna community as a place to meet and connect and a place for local sports groups to call home

While some will be sad to see the Centre go, it is for everyone ’ s safety and the best decision given the extent of work required

“We’ll be working with displaced

groups to find temporary homes so their work and activities can carry on, ” says Rachael

Te Puna Community Centre Committee Secretary Jeff Brownless says “It’s a sad decision to plan to demolish this large community building that looks from a distance so good Regrettably safety issues and building defects mean repair and refurbishment costs are exorbitant ” Council will consider what the most appropriate option is for the targeted rate in the upcoming Annual Plan for 2023/24

Looking to the future, Council is currently assessing community facilities in Te Puna to identify what services the community needs so that together, we can plan for better outcomes for everyone

This assessment involves engagement with Pirirākau, Māramatanga Park clubs and users, other community facilities

such as the Te Puna Memorial Hall, Te Puna School, Te Puna Library and with the wider community which will take place in 2023

The outcome of this assessment will be considered in the 2024-2034 Long Term Plan, and it includes a fresh look at the concept plan for Māramatanga Park (that was developed in 2018) This is in addition to the $190,000 grant secured from the Lion Foundation to provide a new playground and flying fox Council is also working on a cycleway/walkway through the park to improve safety and provide an alternative route for tamariki travelling to/from school

The future of the Te Puna Community Library is also being explored, as the school building housing the library has been closed for safety reasons Currently Council is working with the library committee on the best solution for them and the community

Butter Wouldn’t Melt will perform in Katikati on 20th January

Frank Burkitt Band perform on 3rd February

Councillor claims standing orders are

“decidedly confusing”

Murray-Benge moved an amendment to adopt the 2019 standing orders instead, which was supported by councillor Anne Henry

see major grounds for concern ”

A vote on the proposed amendment was lost, with three councillors in support and nine against it

By Alisha Evans Local Democracy Reporter alisha@thesun co nz

Western Bay of Plenty councillors were divided when deciding how to run their meetings for the next three years

Councillor Margaret Murray-Benge said the 2022 standing orders, which are a formal guide of how a council conducts its meetings, were “decidedly confusing” during the council’s first ordinary meeting of the triennium on Thursday, 8th December

“I believe that the 2019 standing orders were clean and clear, and I found the new ones to be decidedly confusing,” she said “I do think that they [the orders] take away some of the power that the councillors have around this table ”

Councillor Murray Grainger spoke against the amendment

“I believe that the 2022 standing orders are basically word for word with the 2019 standing orders apart from some errors and admissions,” he said

“I shan’t be supporting this because I don’t believe there’s significant change that warrants it ”

Katikati-Waihī Beach Ward councillor Rodney Joyce backed Grainger and said there were “ no specifics” to MurrayBenge’s comments

“If we could get some specifics of what your concerns are, then we can address those concerns ”

Joyce also pointed out that Grainger had “ very kindly” done a “word for word” analysis of the two documents

“Based on his [Grainger’s] work, I don’t

The 2022 standing orders were then adopted with some minor amendments

The council also confirmed its annual salaries, which have increased from the previous term

A councillor with no extra responsibilities will receive $45,321, an increase of $5199 A committee chairperson will be paid $53,095 a year

Deputy mayor John Scrimgeour will receive $70,020, and mayor James Denyer’s salary is $145,667

The deputy mayor ’ s salary has increased by $10,000, and the mayor ’ s is $9167 more than the previous triennium

The increase is due to a larger pool of funds being allocated by the Remuneration Authority The pool for this term is $546,556 In the last term, it was $479,232

The mayor ’ s salary is set by the authority and is separate from the councillors’ pool

The Remuneration Authority determines the pool by taking into account the size of the governance role of each council, the average time required by an elected member on a council of a particular size, and a general comparison with parliamentary salaries, according to the authority’s website

One of the issues raised by the independent panel working on the Future for Local Government review is how much councillors were paid

The review aimed to address plummeting voter turnout and a lack of diversity around council tables

Its most recent paper, released last month, recommended increasing councillors’ pay to encourage a wider range of people to stand

Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air

Walk Waihī Beach’s new trail this summer

Just in time for Christmas, you ’ re invited to come and walk Waihī Beach’s new loop trail

Western Bay of Plenty District Council was excited to partially open the new trail on Friday, 23rd December, allowing everyone to try out the new extension over the holidays

The partial opening allows the remaining forestry operations and trail work in the closed part of the work site to finish Council’s Reserve and Facilities Manager

Peter Watson says getting this trail open for Christmas is the result of some hard mahi from the wider team “We know people love to get out and walk these trails and that at Christmas, things get very busy, so we ’ re happy we can give residents and visitors another walking option

The new loop trail connects to the very top section of the existing Trig Trail – so walkers can go in both directions at the top A return trip will take you around 1hr 15min walk, including the 300 stairs at the

top of the Trig Trail We recommend carrying water and sunscreen and only tackling it if you ’ re reasonably fit

Once trail and forestry work is complete, a large mānuka / native planting revegetation project will begin to replace the pine forest Planting will begin in winter 2023 and go through to winter 2024

Trail works were made possible with support from forestry harvesting and the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment’s Tourism Infrastructure Fund

At this stage, there are no cycle suitable trails within the reserve Within the next few years, we hope to have a purpose-built cycleway through the reserve to connect Waihī to Waihī Beach

The new loop trail and existing favourite, the Trig Trail, are still accessed from the car park at the dam / reservoir There are public toilets at the car park, and the trails are dog friendly; but dogs must be on leads toward the top of the reserve as there is farm stock present

By Fi Gudsell

The saga of the 43 Santas Christmas may only come once a year, but Justin’s Lego Santas have been six months in the planning Just after Easter, his mother, Nathalie, went on a worldwide hunt for Santa faces There were 43 available in Spain, so she nabbed them all and went looking for the rest of the jolly fellow The search took her to Thailand and Germany before the pieces arrived in Justin’s lap It’s hard to know how long each one took to assemble as Justin started with the feet for each and every one of the 43 and worked his way up What we can tell you is they’ve put a smile on the face of everyone who’s seen them

10-pin bowlers off to national champs

David MacKenzie has been tenpin bowling for so long that he can’t even remember when he started Bowling mate Karl started in 2013, and David had already clocked up at least a decade on the lanes by then He reckons the sport is a bit like golf - you have good days and bad days, and there’s a lot of luck involved Practice helps, too and all that practice has paid off with David and Karl both headed to the Special Olympics National Summer Games in December There were 16 bowlers in four teams going from Tauranga Tenpin Bowling is one of ten sports being represented The games were being held from 8th to 12th December in Hamilton

Megan’s soaps a hit all over

It started out as something a bit fun that Megan could do with support worker Jen or her mum, Penny But once people had tried Megan’s handmade goat milk soaps, they wanted more Now she’s made the papers,

has sent orders as far as Dunedin and Auckland, and one lady even orders ten bars at a time Megan now makes both scented and unscented versions in all different shapes and sizes Now that her soaps are available on our website, her fame can only grow

John’s on the payroll

All our wonderful volunteers have their own special superpowers John Cass-Cooks happens to be working with customers in the Chrome Shop His friendly smile and can-do attitude have won him a lot of new friends He’s also really good at working with our computer systems and keeping the place looking ship-shape

We trialled him working sole-charge, and it was a huge success, so with help from Toni Taylor at CareerMoves and with support from MSD’s Flexi Wage team, we ’ re making it official! It’s John’s smiling face you’ll see on Saturday Mornings throughout the holiday season Pop in and say Hi!

John mans the till every Saturday from 9am - 1pm and spends Tuesdays training on our computer systems, website, and social media

Meet the new neighbours

The Chrome Cafe is where it all began, where Shelley and Trudi first started giving work experience to local people with disability From there, the Chrome Collective developed and today, we work with local artists and people with disability throughout the Bay of Plenty and Waikato from our shop and workspace beside the Chrome Cafe in Katikati’s Wharawhara Road

We’re very excited to welcome new owners Rupy and Raman to the Cafe They’ve been involved in the cafe business for years, including stints in Queenstown and New Plymouth but decided that Katikati felt like ‘home’, so they’re here for good The menu is the same; the coffee is just as good, the scones are just as big, and the support for the Collective and our volunteers is just as strong Trudi and Shelley are still involved behind the scenes

So welcome to the team, guys We couldn’t hope for better neighbours

Google funding for Lizard News

By Matthew Farrell

International tech giant Google has targeted funding at more than 450 newsrooms in 52 countries, including Lizard News

U S Partnerships Manager Ashley Edwards says the last few years have made clear we need not only more sources of quality news, but a diversity of voices and perspectives

Google News Initiative says its News Equity Fund will provide financial support and opportunities to news organisations that primarily serve underrepresented communities around the world

Lizard News applied for funding on the basis that it is a small, independent business that serves a specific geographic area in Western Bay of Plenty

We are active in our community both in a volunteer capacity and also by participating in and sponsoring events We aim to report to the wider community about what is happening locally that readers may not read

about anywhere else.

We pay local contractors for graphic design, printing and post-press services, freight and rural mailbox deliveries We also pay young people and those with disabilities to deliver the paper in our two main urban areas of Katikati and Ōmokoroa

We believe in supporting local, and our community is growing considerably Where possible, we ’ ve sponsored local schools, sports clubs, environmental and community groups along with providing free or discounted advertising and publicity

Lizard News started with 4,200 copies of a 24-page edition in June 2017 and now prints 11,500 copies of an often 48-page paper

This has led to increased costs for international shipping of paper, along with ink, aluminium printing plates, labour, bulk freight, mailbox delivery, and graphic design

Production costs doubled in 2019, while sales grew by 5% on average in 2020 and 2021

It took us 18 months to get up to pre-Covid levels of advertising sales, but 2022 was a year of far greater stability and we are looking at 2023 with optimism

Funding from Google will help fund payment of contractors, personnel, web maintenance and hosting costs and the future purchase of hardware, software and related licenses to continue producing Lizard News as a local, family-owned publication

After similar laws in Australia and Canada, Broadcasting Minister Willie Jackson says the New Zealand government plans to introduce a law that will require Google and Facebook to pay media companies for local news content shared on their feeds

“It costs to produce the news, and it’s only fair they pay, ” Minister Jackson says

The News Publishers’ Association says legislation will address the imbalance in bargaining power between digital platforms and news media, and is a significant step towards securing fair commercial deals for the use of New Zealand journalism

John will be waiting to help you on Saturday mornings throughout the holidays PHOTO: Supplied

If your tamariki need some downtime and an indoor break from that hot summer sun these school holidays, we ’ ve got just the activity for them

The IMPACTS Superhero Team (Izzy, Mika, Paul, Ashley, Carter, Tāmati and Sheng) is a group of young superheroes just like you They are prepared in case an emergency comes that involves you, your whānau and your whole community Kids like you can and do make a difference, so join the team and be prepared for whatever comes your way

Pick up an activity booklet from any of our libraries and service centres, or download a copy from westernbay govt nz/summeractivity There are two booklets - one for tamariki aged 6-9 years and one for 10–13-year-olds

There are fun activities to complete, plus helpful information about emergency planning, evacuating, making a household plan, what to put in your grab bag, and tips on what to do if you lose power, water, phone or internet

Bring your booklet back to us by

31st January to claim your prize You’ll also go in the draw to win one of two family passes to Waimarino Water and Adventure Park

Council’s Community Resilience Advisor Elle Reid says the activities are designed to create discussion with tamariki and their caregivers

“Emergencies can happen at any time and any place, so it’s important whānau have plans in place so loved ones know what to do and where to meet

“The IMPACTS superhero team will guide you through the activities and before you know it – you’ll be prepared for an emergency, ” says Elle

“We really encourage parents and caregivers to get involved in this activity with their kids and chat about what everyone should do if an emergency happens.”

To find out more about the activity, head to westernbay govt nz/summeractivity

For help with making a plan, see westernbay govt nz/emergencymanagement Article supplied

Western Bay

Hey, all you Western Bay staycationers and holidaymakers – don’t let your summer be a bummer – get all the info you need to have a splashing good time

We want to make sure you have everything you need to know about Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s services over the holiday period and so our website westernbay govt nz/summerinfo has all the details in one place

This will give you all the information about summer operating hours for our libraries and service centres, kerbside rubbish and recycling collections (including extra services for Waihī Beach, Bowentown, and Athenree), recycling, and greenwaste centres Additional excess glass drop-off will be available at Ōmokoroa Greenwaste Centre to help make the big holiday glass recycling easier

If you have a holiday rental, please make sure to let visitors know about pay-as-youthrow (PAYT) tags, where to purchase them and how to attach them correctly through both loops to the red-lid rubbish bin

There are a few changes to where you can and can’t walk your pooch in WaihĪ Beach during the busy summer period From 21st December to 7th February, between 9am and 7pm, dogs are not allowed on Main Beach Outside of these times, your furry friends are welcome The ‘on-leash’ restrictions in the main town centre areas of Katikati and Waihī Beach remain in place

There are 46 places you can freedom camp in the Western Bay As a Council, we need to make sure everyone is complying with the rules, so our contractors do regular nightly and

early morning patrols of most of our reserves We also respond to complaints from the public about freedom camping Our summer ambassadors will visit freedom camping spots, parking areas and beaches around our rohe to ensure everyone is enjoying their stay and letting campers know about freedom camping opportunities

The building and resource consent clock stops from 20th December to 10th January for the 20-working-day statutory timeframe for building consents, code of compliance certificates and resource consents Our teams will work as efficiently as possible to process your consent applications

There are year-round 24/7 alcohol bans in the urban areas of Katikati and Waihī Beach This means you can’t consume alcohol in public within these areas

This and more information about exploring the District - walking tracks and cycle trails, water quality in our streams and rivers, public swimming pools, water-saving tips, lighting a fire and permits, and excessive noise control are all available on the website

Save this page to your favourites so you can check back easily over the coming weeks westernbay govt nz/summerinfo

Even when our offices are closed, you can still contact us at any time on 0800 926 732 –24 hours a day, seven days a week Download the Antenno app to get notifications on important things straight to your mobile and report any problems to us easily through the app Happy holidays from your Council crew We look forward to 2023! Article supplied

Ayen Chen

Focus on Katikati

By Fiona Powell

As well as our murals and sculptures, the Western Bay Museum, and roadside food stands overflowing with cheap avocados, there are lots of other reasons to visit Katikati during the summer holiday period

Enjoy some fresh air

The various walk and cycleways in and around Katikati are probably one of our town’s best-kept secrets

There’s a track to suit any ability, of varying lengths; some are dog friendly, and many offer a cool shady option on a

hot summer ’ s day while others offer views over the harbour and estuaries

Close to town, there’s the Haiku Pathway, the Mural walk, the Bird Walk (Uretara Estuary & Yeoman Walkway) and the MacMillan Reserve Loop Walk and Cycleway Further out of town, there’s the Tuapiro Point Foreshore Walk and the iconic Tūāhu Kauri Track, along with numerous bush walks into the foothills of the Kaimai Ranges ranging from 30 minutes to five hours

Free maps are available from the Visitor Information Centre at The Arts Junction

Catch a movie

The Junction Theatre in The Arts Junction on the Main Road of Katikati is a boutique and stylish theatre seating just 36 people on a mix of couches and theatre seats Escape the summer heat (or rain!) in air-conditioned comfort and watch a 50’s classic ‘An American in Paris’ or a recent release like ‘Ticket to Paradise’ or ‘Whina’ during January Matinee movies screen on Mondays and every second Sunday at 1 30 pm with $10 tickets and movie information available from The Arts Junction and online

Get your vibe on

Each week of January features a live music event in Katikati On Saturday 7th the first of the Twilight Concerts kicks off with a New Zealand Eagles Tribute Show

at 6pm at the Haiku Reserve The following weekend is the popular Katikati Avocado Food and Wine Festival featuring live music from Boom Boom Deluxe, The Lady Killers and The Jordan Luck Band –along with delicious food and beverages

The festival runs from noon til 6pm on Saturday 14th at the Uretara Domain in Katikati

On Friday 20th, Katikati Folk Club hosts Butter Wouldn’t Melt, playing whimsical songs at The Arts Junction at 7 30 pm, and then on Saturday 28th the second Twilight Concert of the summer season features Country Rock. Wet weather backup dates for the Twilight Concerts are the Sunday of the same weekend

Tickets and information for all events are available from The Arts Junction

Taking stock of success

By Noelene Taylor

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 Dayna on daynarowe83@hotmail 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

WHakamārama EmaiLS

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

HaLL bOOkiNGS

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

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January is the season for looking back and looking forward Friends of the Blade, the trapping group who have been removing predators from the bush around the Pā Kererū walking track for the last six years, will take a short break from trapping work to enjoy the success of the past year and to reset goals for 2023

The group is very happy with the results of their work in 2022; volunteers trapped 1,949 rats, 409 mice, 24 stoats, five weasels and one ferret In the course of their fortnightly trapping this year, they invested approximately 3,200 volunteer hours, checked 22,018 individual traps and spent many hours discussing and investigating new trapping methods and technology

The group was also very pleased this

year that Colin Hewens, who established this trapping group in 2016, received an award from the Bay Conservation Alliance to recognise his commitment to predator control The work by citizen conservationists is vital to help small, local populations of native birds and animals to regenerate and thrive

When you are enjoying summer afternoons this month, when your family and visitors would love an easy bush walk with a chance to listen to the birds, think about packing a picnic and heading for the Pā Kererū reserve at the end of Whakamārama Road

And if you are interested in joining a small and enthusiastic management group, or our larger pool of equally enthusiastic predator control volunteers, contact us for more information by emailing friendsoftheblade@gmail com

Katikati Rotary Club

By Nigel Williams

One of our recent speakers was Melody Lamb of Drop Deep

Skateboarding

This is a volunteer-based registered charity dedicated to reaching out and creating a variety of platforms in the skateboarding community

They understand the value and holistic benefits of connection, conversation, and physical exercise among rangatahi (young people) and partner with likeminded people to engage, activate and connect rangatahi

Melody is the Operations Manager She founded Drop Deep Skateboarding in Wellington around 2011 when her teenage son became a keen skateboarder, and it quickly became apparent that there were no opportunities available for his age group that provided him with a chance to grow and develop his skateboarding skills She decided to create a community event that would allow young people to compete and grow in confidence

Through this process, she began to understand not just the skateboarding culture but the many issues that surround many of our young people every day

For nearly two years, Melody was employed by the Katikati Community Centre as Youth Employment Coach There she implemented and completed the Rangatahi Pathways Project pilot This involved engaging, recruiting, coaching, and supporting rangatahi well-being on their pathway to achieving their aspirations and success in education, training, and employment

Melody loves to help spread the word about skateboarding by going “ on the road” and creating events and competitions that will connect enthusiasts from different places Last year she did just that around Katikati A current project is to purchase a large purpose-built trailer to transport equipment around the country for demonstrations and competitions Our club will investigate a joint project with other clubs in our area to support this

Tuapiro Point Foreshore Walk PHOTOS: Supplied

MacMillan Reserve offers a loop walk and cycleway

The Bugman visits Katikati

By Fiona Powell

uud Kleinpaste, affectionately known as New Zealand’s ‘Bugman’, visited Katikati recently for a busy day meeting the community, braving the damp weather, and sharing his passion for the environment and, of course, bugs

His first visit of the day was to Katikati Kindergarten, where the under-fives took turns holding native bugs, including George and Dorothy the wētā, a centipede, and a funnel web spider “The kids sang their song about solar power and learned from Ruud how bugs and solar energy work together,” says Kirst O’Rourke, event manager for Katch Katikati, one of the event organisers

Ruud then gave a presentation to over 60 students at Katikati Primary School and also gave each student an opportunity to get up close and personal with Dorothy the wētā “A few students found it a real challenge overcoming their fear of bugs,” says Kirst “It was wonderful to see other students and the Principal encourage these kids to step outside their comfort zone so they can appreciate that bugs are both beautiful

and important to New Zealand ”

After a relaxing cuppa with staff at Kings Seeds, Ruud met with a small group hosted by Grow On Katikati, where he talked about iNaturalist - a fantastic educational app that allows you to observe and upload photos of plants and insects, and identify and discuss findings

The last stop for the day was Katikati Cafe Scientific, hosted by Project Parore, where Ruud was the guest speaker “He spoke about the connections between art and nature and how important it is that our teachers are able to nurture our younger generation’s passion for nature and to care for our environment,” says Kirst

“We were very privileged to have Ruud for the day,” says Kirst “He had a great time and promises to return soon ”

Waihī Beach Menz Shed diary

By Bob Firth Secretary

Thursday 24th November

We have been very busy at the Menz Shed Come and have a look at our progress

The wood shelves have been completed, and all wood is stored away neatly The trap library has been set up and is ready for our first customer The latest plans will be discussed regarding the concrete pad to be started very soon The long bench on the back wall has been completed Phil and Keith will give a talk on their visit and meeting held at the Paeroa Menz Shed recently We have applied for the shed’s sign-off Thursday 1st December

Coffee tomorrow, 10am - bring a friend this week Opening of the trap library Morning tea might arrive;

if not, biscuits Next, we are looking at moving the large container, smoke alarms, kitchen flooring, concrete pad, open day and official opening Keep up the good work

Wednesday 7th December

We have had a request from the community board to help tomorrow with weeding The school children are doing the weeding The trouble is, they don’t know the difference between a weed and a small shrub If any shedder is available tomorrow at 9am can you please come to the flag pole outside the community hall for a briefing? It might pay to bring gumboots, gloves, hedge trimmers, grubbers and perhaps a raincoat Your job is to identify the shrubs rather than to spend time on your hands and knees

Also, concrete laying planned for tomorrow is

postponed due to weather issues

Thursday 15th December

Hi Shedders, yes, it’s Christmas in ten days Another year has gone by. See you all tomorrow for our last coffee morning for the year Wear your Santa hat

Kids’ weeding: Due to inclement weather, this weeding is now scheduled for tomorrow at 11am Anyone that can help identify the shrubs from the weeds for the school children please come and help; raincoats and gumboots are a must

From our Chairman and committee, a very Merry Christmas to all our shedders We hope you all have a nice relaxing time with family, and that our weather improves enough so we can dip our toes in the tide

Look forward to next year and a productive shed We are all set up now

Ruud encourages Katikati Primary students to get up close with Dorothy the wētā PHOTOS: Supplied

Ruud was the guest speaker at Cafe Scientifique

The River Sounds Festival returns

The 11th February 2023 brings the return of the River Sounds Festival to be held at Woodlands Road, Katikati, from 1pm to midnight The volunteer-led, not-for-profit music festival is dedicated to raising mental health awareness, and all proceeds from this event will be donated to local charities, Te Puna Hauora and Yellow Brick Road “We were so thrilled to be invited to be a part of this amazing festival,” says John Moore, CEO of Yellow Brick Road “We’re all about supporting families, and here’s

an event where people come together for some fun and whānaungatanga while also raising awareness for a vital cause It just goes to show how there are so many people out there who really care and want to make a difference to the mental health sector that is currently overwhelmed and stretched ”

This year ’ s Festival line-up will feature a diverse range of New Zealand musical talent Headlining the show is one of Kiwi music’s most evolutionary and enduring acts, Sola Rosa Sound System, bringing their eclectic mix of soul, R’n’B, funk, jazz, hip-hop and pop They will be joined by Albi and the Wolves, who are set to light up the stage with their engaging mix of alternative indie folk songs. Auckland ensemble The Rvmes will be blending their boundary-pushing sound as part of their 2022/23 Simple Things summer tour Rising stars Park Road are expected to be a crowd favourite with their feel-good, indie pop sound Inspiring female DJ BBYFACEKILLA will take a break from the Auckland club scene to round out the line-up alongside Strangely Arousing, a five-piece reggae/ska act hailing originally from Rotorua

Complimenting the main stage performances will be a selection of free well-

being activities such as a men ’ s discussion group, yoga, a paint and sip session, tree planting, a family support session run by Yellow Brick Road, and speeches from people with lived experience. Peer support workers from Te Puna Hauora will also be on-site and available for anyone who wants to talk The activities aim to encourage authentic conversations about mental health between festival goers and promote spiritual, physical and mental wellness

The theme of the 2023 festival is ‘ reconnection’ - encouraging festival goers to share and open up to those around them while urging others to do the same Many people carry internal struggles, illnesses, fears and panic that they often keep to themselves The festival will be curated to encourage people to share these experiences, all while listening to live music and forming lasting connections Local food vendors will be onsite, and drinks will be available to purchase at the onsite bar

The River Sounds Festival is delivered by The Everyone Hurts Foundation and was created out of tragedy as a one-off event to remember the brother of two of the founders, who took his life after a decade-long struggle with mental illness However, due to the overwhelming suc-

cess of the inaugural festival in 2019, it is now a biennial event The Everyone Hurts Foundation was established as a registered charity in 2019 to continue to support mental health in New Zealand through events like the River Sounds Festival

Tickets are available now via Humanitix and you can read more about the event on the Everyone Hurts website everyonehurts com

Article and photos supplied

Museum appoints Mana Whenua Liaison Officer

The Western Bay Museum is pleased to announce the appointment of Hone WinderMurray as our new Mana Whenua Liaison Officer

Museum Manager, Paula Gaelic, describes the appointment as “ a momentous milestone” Hone joins Western Bay Museum with exceptional people skills and with a background grounded in film, digital media production, conservation, taonga o te Taiao and strengths in te reo and Māori studies

Speaking about his role, Hone says, “it is a privilege and honour to serve our northern hapū of Tauranga Moana here in the museum I see my role as the embodiment of developing meaningful relationships to achieve the mutual aspirations of hapū, iwi and Western Bay Museum, allowing us all to move forward together”

As Western Bay Museum aspires to be the best small museum in Aotearoa and strives to meet the code of ethics set out by Museums Aotearoa, the museum can now begin to really embrace our Māori histories, our storytelling, our connection to the whenua (land) and our role and responsibilities to Te Tiriti o Waitangi Hone will help the museum navigate these initiatives and become the conduit between our hapū of Northern Ngāi te Rangi and the museum

We were very fortunate to have the support, wise council and assistance of Te Papa National Services Te Paerangi Māori in the museum sector has been a key partner and a naturally respected force since the 1980s This natural partnership is clearly reflected in Aotearoa’s larger museums and institutions, as Māori is where our history begins Colonial histories have been well celebrated and are clearly identified through written histories, being a much easier story to tell In contrast, Māori histories can only be told by Tangata Whenua for Tangata Whenua Hapū Representatives - Eddie Bluegum (Ngāi

Our future looks bright, and we are delighted to move forward together

Funding for this important appointment came through external funding from the Department of Internal Affairs – Lottery

As the world struggles with the effects of climate change, how can we do our part? Visit the exhibition at Western Bay Museum to find out “How To Save The Planet –what we can learn from our grandparents” opened on 2nd November and runs until late February 2023

Drawing on objects from the museum ’ s collections, the exhibition re-visits attributes such as thrift and frugality to see what is really practical for us to do today Skills like preserving, mending, growing your own fruit and vegetables and reducing waste are encouraged. The exhibition will also highlight local businesses and organisations that are doing their bit to reduce waste in the Western Bay of Plenty

As part of this exhibition, we ’ re running a number of fabulous free community talks and workshops until February 2023 Visit westernbaymuseum nz/ for full information

We want to extend a big thank you to the Western Bay of Plenty District Council for

sponsoring this exhibition

The Western Bay Museum is located at 32 Main Road in Katikati and is free to Western Bay residents and ratepayers and is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 3pm

Tamawhariua ki Te Rereatukāhia), Reon Tuanau (Ōtāwhiwhi - Te Whānau-a-Tauwhao) and Riki Nelson (Tuāpiro - Ngāti te Wai) were involved from the outset and joined Paula on the interview panel We are grateful for their time, knowledge and collaboration for such a pivotable position within our museum

Grants Article supplied

Hone Winder-Murray has been appointed Mana Whenua Liaison Officer at Western Bay Museum PHOTO: Supplied

Dress homemade from nylon ribbons about 1943 on display as part of the What we can learn from our grandparents exhibition

PHOTO: Matthew Farrell

What we can learn from our grandparents

Best in Aotearoa is not a phrase you throw around often But it’s warranted for Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s Customer Service team, which has taken out the Association of Local Government Information Management’s (ALGIM) Best Customer Experience Award at the 2022 ALGIM Awards

Winning this prestigious award means our team has been directly compared with every local government body in Aotearoa and has come out on top It proves we ’ re the best of the best in providing quality care and service to local communities

The thorough judging process adds extra clout to the award It involves a detailed mystery shop of every council and two council-controlled organisations (80 organisations in total)

Mystery shoppers contact each customer service team and pose the same query multiple times a day via phone, the website and Facebook Judges then grade the responses according to criteria, including – were the team efficient in sharing information and was the response easy to understand and relatable Judging also includes the more personal touch our team takes

pride in, such as using the customer’s name throughout the call, greeting them warmly and thanking them for calling

Given the team answers 5300 calls and 2325 emails on average each month, this award shows that every one of those interactions is important to us

Rachael Davie, General Manager for Strategy and Community, could not be prouder of the team

“Every day, our team of 13 are challenging the status quo of what good customer service looks like They go the extra mile to make real differences for our communities and find solutions that really help people

“To have their hard mahi acknowledged as best in Aotearoa is the perfect validation of what everyone at council and our satisfied community members know – our Customer Service team are extraordinary, and they embody our spirit of being changemakers for our Western Bay community Ka rawe team ”

This is the second time the Western Bay team has won the award, having nabbed it in 2019, proving our ongoing dedication to our community

Article supplied