Lizard News June 2023

L i z a r d Ne ws

L i z a r d Ne ws

FREE LOCAL NEWS... IN THE COMMUNITY

FREE LOCAL NEWS... IN THE COMMUNITY

Traffic jam; peak breakfast spread

By Matthew Farrell

Western Bay motorists on the State Highway 2 northern corridor have endured a month of lost time and money between Ōmokoroa and the Wairoa River at Bethlehem

Off-peak trips to Tauranga typically take about 25 minutes, but unproductive journeys of 90 to 120 minutes have been common for peak-time commuters during May

Many drivers have taken to social media to berate local and national politicians, urban and transport planners Others have looked to arrange carpooling or have considered the merits of cycling, electric scooters, motorcycles, ferries or jetskis

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency says this stretch of the highway network is incredibly sensitive to any changes in traffic flow Regional manager Rob Campbell says network pressure has been felt for some time

“From what was once a rural road, it has developed into a busy commuter and freight route, and the kiwifruit season is underway The main cause of the current congestion appears to be the sheer volume of traffic There has been an increase of 6,000 vehicles per day in the past ten years The commuter peak is now 6am to 10 30am,” Rob says

On Thursday 25th May, an asphalt paver suffered a

mechanical failure at the worksite, delaying the road reopening by almost an hour

Delays were initially caused when Tauranga City Council was installing a new kerb and channel at Taniwha Place, where the left-hand slip lane is becoming part of the Wairoa cycleway project The rest of the cycleway work is to be completed at night and was not expected to cause significant impacts

An underpass from the Wairoa River clip-on bridge will lead to an on-road, two-way cycleway Cyclists will give way to turning traffic before continuing up the Taniwha Place side of the hill along SH2 to a signalised crossing connecting to Carmichael Road

This will complete the 19km Ōmokoroa to Tauranga cycleway, which was originally expected to attract 130 to 200 commuter cyclists per day, plus recreational users NZTA’s June 2015 factsheet said cycleway construction was expected to be completed by mid-2018

Waka Kotahi’s annual maintenance programme has included major rehabilitation of State Highway 2, with several overnight closures to allow for complete rebuilding and asphalting of the road surface between the Wairoa Bridge and the Bethlehem roundabout During the closures, light vehicles have been diverted via Poripori Road to State Highway 29

When the work is completed, Bethlehem’s 50km speed limit will begin at the bridge The speed limit will

become 80km from the bridge towards Te Puna Tauranga City Council’s website says the more people who cycle, the fewer cars need to be on the road The Transport Agency expected the resurfacing to be completed by the morning of Friday 2nd June The cycleway works were expected to take around three months

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Letters to the Editor

Finish the job

Thank you, Mr Sumeran, for your reply regarding the footpath completion to the rail bridge on Ōmokoroa Road If you are genuine with the information in your explanation regarding footpath maintenance, immediate action is required to repair the slush hole on the Goldstone Road side of Ōmokoroa Road leading into the railway bridge

When it rains, water covers the socalled footpath, which then becomes a bog hole and is very dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists alike Urgent maintenance is required

Would Council also confirm when the retaining wall on the Settlers’ Hall side of Ōmokoroa Road will be completed? This job was excavated, and materials were supplied ready for completion prior to Christmas 2022 Just before Christmas, it was backfilled, and fenced off, Five months later, is still unfinished No design is needed, money was already allocated, and materials are on site, so all that is required is a workman

Ian Blunt, Ōmokoroa

Team Raeburn

Firstly, a massive thank you to everyone who donated to raise money for motor neurone disease The total we raised for the Motor Neurone Disease Association of New Zealand was $2968 towards finding a cure for this disease, which is fantastic

You’ll be pleased to know that we all completed the Leeds Marathon on the morning of Sunday 14th May in what turned out to be quite a hilly course It would also be fair to say that everyone crossed the finish line in a fair amount of pain, whether due to knees, ankles, blisters, chafing, or a combination of all four Support from the locals was fantastic Well over a million pounds was raised for MND UK

My Dad, David, was diagnosed with MND two and a half years ago A fit and active man all his life, he previously ran in several marathons raising money for charity

With the support of Nicky and my sis-

ter, Lucy, my Dad was able to watch the whole event Times (hrs/mins) were as follows: Liz (74 years old, my Mum) 6 25, Tim 4 53, Anna 5 10, Angus 4 31, Jon (brother-inlaw) 4 27, Ella (niece) 3 52, Dylan (nephew) 4 09

Finally, thank you for all your messages of support; they were very much appreciated

Tim Raeburn, Ōmokoroa

Correction

I would like to correct an error in two of your articles on my dad John Luckman (April and May editions) In a couple of your articles, you have stated a car fire in Kowai Grove

In fact, at the time we were living in Mr Cooney’s old farm house on Cooney’s Farm up to the left behind Acacia Park

The old Chevy caught alight and Mum had to navigate the pitch black track down to the main road, over to Mr McGregor’s motor camp (now the Ōmokoroa Kiwi Holiday Park) Not a biggy, but facts are facts

Dad could tell the stories, that is for sure In the true style of Dad, things got repeated or changed or stretched a little This latest story was a lovely surprise on going through the Lizard News so thank you He was a pretty special guy

Wendy Griffin, Ōmokoroa

That makes sense, Wendy Sometimes people telling stories omit facts they know, and go on to tell you an additional fact about a different location, causing inaccurate conflation I’ll happily print your corrections Thanks and I’m glad you have enjoyed the stories

Matthew

A frustrated local writes

By Dave J Austin

Iattended a Waka Kotahi open day on 6th May in Katikati I had been waiting for the opportunity for an explanation on the roading works going on between Katikati and Tauranga

Like many, I have been frustrated trying to get to meetings, hospital appointments etc , mainly in Tauranga Making a 20-minute journey into a one-hour trip and missing appointments

Encountering 17km of traffic at times stationary up to the Ōmokoroa junction of SH2.

First, my apology to Angela, who had to put up with my barrage of questions One being, why are so many workers standing around watching each other and nothing getting done? With millions of our money being spent on these people looking at each other

She, of course, said this was not happening I offered to supply her with photos if she wished

Lanes being closed, with no work being carried out for months on end, with the cost of barrier hire and limiting

cars to one or two lanes

The one that made my blood boil with disbelief was I asked why we are subjected to work trucks on many occasions, one in particular, two trucks between works at the Wairoa bridge, moving at less than walking pace in front of the traffic I was told this was a rolling block to slow down traffic We have our own rolling block in the form of a 17km vehicle car park

We don’t need any help with rolling a block we have become experts at it I have never heard of such a waste of manpower and a stupid reason for having them

The open day was, in essence, telling us of all the work being done for safety reasons I could go on with my opinions on this but won’t Accidents are caused by driver frustration, causing them to make bad decisions, many times being held up by stupid rolling blockages

I’d like to know who makes these decisions because they’re counterproductive Let’s get practical people making good practical decisions, not someone with a university degree

OMOKOR OA SNAPSH OT

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If your property has been sitting on the market for some time or you’re contemplating selling there’s some positive market indications emerging Through our extensive Bayleys network, we’re receiving encouraging reports from Auckland, indicating increased property inquiries. Open home attendance has increased and the auction clearance rates are improving as buyers compete for properties Hopefully some form of recovery is beginning and if so, will soon extend to the Bay of Plenty

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My commitment is to always work hard and achieve exceptional results for you to maximize your property’s potential minimize its time on the market and secure the best possible outcome In addition, for every successful sale, I’ll donate $250 to the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ. Don’t wait contact me today I m local and easy to talk to about your property goals Together, we’ll unlock the full potential of your property while making a di erence in the fight against breast cancer.

Ōmokoroa Pink Ribbon Breakfast

On the 7th May, 109 ladies were welcomed to the inaugural Ōmokoroa Pink Ribbon Breakfast held at the Ōmokoroa Golf Course, and treated to a fun filled morning of delicious food, games, auction banter and all important fundraising Two resilient ladies who were determined not to be beaten by the weather, even enjoyed nine holes of golf before the breakfast began

In between festivities, Dame Susan Devoy delivered an inspiring speech, sharing personal anecdotes and experiences that brought laughter to the room Equally special was Judith Beattie’s edu-

important the Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand would become to her family, as she supports her mother through her own journey

cational speech on breast awareness and self-care, which was a valuable gift for everyone to take home and share with their loved ones

So far from this event, $11,000 has been raised for the Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand, to go to towards life-saving research, services, and support for those who are suffering from breast cancer One in nine people will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, making every donation count, no matter how large or small

Event organiser Sarah Campbell of Bayleys, said she was grateful to those who attended, “they were a superb group of ladies whose participation and enthusiasm for the cause made the event a success ” She acknowledged the amazing sponsors and business contributors, who gave generously, commenting she was surprised at how many people had been touched by breast cancer through a friend, family member or themselves as a survivor

When Sarah first registered as a Pink Ribbon Breakfast host, she wanted to help a significant cause that was solely reliant on donations and bringing the Ōmokoroa community together At this time, she didn’t realise how personal and

When planning this special day, Sarah reached out to the local community to see who could help with different aspects of the event A special thanks goes to Marcus Niles, manager of the Ōmokoroa Golf Club who was instrumental in providing the club house as a venue and offered constant support through his team in selling tickets for the event The club’s inhouse caterer, Brittany Fowler, was excited to provide a delicious breakfast of pink themed goodies for everyone to enjoy Sue Dark answered the call to do some artwork for the day and Gary Meynell gladly provided his photography services capturing special moments Liz and Matthew from Lizard News have graciously spread the word with everyone

Like all events there is a team of people that make the event come together Sarah would like to acknowledge friends Robyn Lamborn and her husband Frank who were there every step of the way and put their hands up for any task that needed doing Zoe Bartlett and Des Pittas rallied auction items together and her Bayleys colleagues worked behind the scenes supporting her as they do every day with her role as a salesperson Altogether, Better - is the Bayleys mantra and it was very appropriate for this great and worthwhile occasion

Continuing to support the Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand is vital Their research, services, and information they share can make a huge impact on people’s lives If you are a person in need of support, or would like to know more about self-care, reach out to them, they are there for you

For more information contact w w w b re a s tc a n c e r fo u n d a t i o n o rg n z and or to make a donation, go to Sarah’s fundraising page https://pinkribbon b r e a k f a s t c o n z / p a g e / b a y l e y s p i n k ribbonbreakfast

We are the proud ‘Business Growth Par tner’ for business owners throughout our region.

Every one of our char tered accountants and accountants enjoys a long-term relationship with each of our clients It’s that perfect combination of experience, knowledge and time together that ensures you receive the best possible service

Guest speaker Dame Susan Devoy with event organiser Sarah Campbell

Judith Beattie spoke about breast awareness and self-care

The Ōmokoroa Golf Club was awash with pink for the event PHOTOS: Supplied

Crime and incident report

By Senior Sergeant Steve Hindmarsh and Senior Constable James Muir

Burglaries

25th to 26th April Burglary report at a residential address on Munro Road, Whakamārama, where a distinctive Māori large mātau or hook was stolen This was in a wooden frame and was hundreds of years old

25th April Two classrooms were broken into at Katikati Primary School Several medals were stolen but have been recovered Three very young children have been identified and are being dealt with by our youth aid officer

29th April Burglary reported at an Ainsworth Road, Minden address, where three motorcycles were stolen from a locked shed A Yamaha WR250, Yamaha TTR125 and a Yamaha TTR110 were stolen

29th April A Toyota Corolla vehicle was broken into overnight at the Matakana ferry terminal at Ōmokoroa An unsuccessful attempt was made to steal it

A residential burglary was reported on Loop Road, Te Puna A set of keys was stolen from a shed

Wilful Damage

Recently we have had reports of superglue being put into the door locks of shops in Katikati

Theft

Rural mail has again been a target The area around Te Puna had mail stolen, as well as Crawford Road A silver Subaru Legacy station wagon has been seen in

suspicious circumstances around the courier’s delivery route

Mail was stolen from a mailbox on Rea Road on 5th or 6th May At this stage, we have no lines of inquiry

A credit card was lost and then used several times in Katikati Inquiries are continuing

Found property

A computer tablet was left at a local dentist and was handed to Police

Arrests and apprehensions

24th April. A 46-year-old male was charged with assault with a weapon and reckless driving after a traffic-related incident on Thompson’s Track between two males in vehicles The vehicles ended up next to the Katikati Police Station, where the arrest was made

28th April A male was arrested for breaching bail

28th April A 37-year-old female has been charged with burglary to a Tuapiro address and possession of drugs after a search warrant was executed at a Turner Road address She also had warrants for her arrest for failing to appear at court on other charges She has been held in custody to appear in the Tauranga DC

A stolen Mazda utility taken from a burglary at Wright Road was also recovered from the address Enquiries are ongoing

A 38-year-old Waihī man has been summoned to appear in the Tauranga DC for driving with excess blood alcohol and dangerous driving after he was observed by a Police patrol to be driving erratically on SH 2 Aongatete on 22nd April

A At t t L Le t Leg Lega Legac Legacy F Fu Fun Fune Funer Funera t Legacy Funeral Funerals Funerals, ega c y Fu

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A 37-year-old Tauranga man has been charged with burglaries to addresses on Minden Road and Clarke Road, Te Puna, which occurred in March 2023 A boat and a number of tools were taken in the burglaries He is also charged with two burglaries in the Tauranga area He will appear in the Tauranga DC

A 30-year-old Ōmokoroa man was arrested for failing to appear in court

A 46-year-old South Island woman has been charged with driving with excess blood/alcohol and careless use of a motor vehicle This relates to a crash at the intersection of Tetley Road and SH 2 Katikati on 25th April

A 21-year-old Athenree man has been charged with driving whilst his licence was suspended on Tetley Road, Katikati, on 5th May. His vehicle was impounded.

General

Police attended a single-vehicle accident at the corner of SH 2 and Tetley Road

More scams were reported recently,

with several incidents involving Facebook marketplace where items have been paid for but never received Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their approaches to deceive their victims into believing they are credible and that immediate payment is required to remedy the problem Methods of payment can vary in the form of a bank transfer, providing credit card details, or vouchers such as iTunes

Localised telephone numbers can be sourced to look like the caller is based in NZ or through the use of technology to create a localised number

A motorcycle failed to stop for Police on SH 2 and was not located by Police

A motorcycle crashed on SH 2, Katikati, on 3rd May after hitting the raised traffic island The rider received serious injuries because of the accident

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

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Challenge now round the clock

By Matthew Farrell

If you forgot to fill up, you won’t get caught short again Challenge Ōmokoroa has installed a 24/7 payment option which will be available to motorists after hours, 365 days a year

“It was always in the plans for eventually when we started, but we prioritised investing in the shop and the forecourt, to get us up and running,” says owner Joann Deane

“I wasn’t sure it was the right thing to do, but Mike pushed for it Particularly in the summer, we do have boaties waiting to fill up and get out there earlier”

The driver for the addition was the change to winter closing of 7pm versus 8pm with the daylight saving change

“We need to get the word out The facility does need to be used more before 6am because it was quite an investment,” says Joann

It will also come in handy for roading crews at night with a high-flow diesel pump for trucks and people can use fuel cards: Farmlands, Z, Farm Source/RD1, Card Link, EFTPoS, and all major credit cards It’s not the only change at Challenge

“We’ve been experimenting in our retail area with protein products, the Nothing Naughty range, and Good Change eco cleaning products - they’re locals in Pahoia

Subtropical

“Epiphany doughnuts - we get them directly, and fresh in a dozen flavours We have fishing essentials: bait, tackle, and ice Our oil supplier is now Valvoline

“We have a 10-seat cafe area and real fruit ice cream There’s been fierce staff competition to beat one another to make the best That proved popular in the summer with banana, strawberry, blueberry, mixed fruit, kiwifruit, and feijoa in season, ” says Joann

Friends of Kaimai Views

More than 30 residents of Ōmokoroa ’ s Kaimai Views subdivision gathered to discuss community matters on Wednesday 24th May

Topics included crime, roading, parking, reserves, planting, and weeding The evening was led by Neighbourhood Support with input from Community Board chair Pete Presland, while the Community Patrol called for new volunteers

At the Western Avenue pavilion meeting, Ōmokoroa IT gave a presentation about Arlo cameras, and steering wheel locks were discussed as a deterrent

There was unanimous support among those present at the meeting for parking on one side of Sentinel Avenue only between the roundabout and Heartwood Avenue Another show of hands revealed that only one person preferred the current bark and planting to grass berms

A new volunteer care group was also

Do

• Grasses

021 220 5541 135 Te Puna Road

Mon – Thurs 8am – 4pm Friday 8am – 3pm

https://www.wholesaleplantstauranga.co.nz/

introduced, Friends of Kaimai Views, which has been talking with Council about the topics above and starting weeding bees to target invasive pest plants Input from all residents is welcome

Kylie Kamo and Joann Deane with the self-service terminal

PHOTO: Matthew Farrell

The first Friends of Kaimai Views weeding bee

PHOTO: Matthew Farrell

W o r l d c l a s s d e n t i s t r y y o u c a n d e p e n d o n

A e s t h e t i c & g e n e r a l d e n t i s t r y

G u i d e d i m p l a n t s u r g e r y

F u l l s m i l e m a k e - o v e r s

O n e - v i s i t c r o w n s

R e m o v a b l e b r a c e s

Ōmokoroa Community Board

By Peter Presland Chair

Ihave written this column so many times in my head these past weeks, a culmination of thoughts and frustration over how we continually miss the mark on so many aspects of urban development The outcome is a sanitised edition of those thoughts, written as a citizen/father/ratepayer first, Chair of the Community Board thereafter, albeit some will tell me my first and last thought on all things must align with the direction of local government Ah well, not everyone is perfect

I have had plenty of opportunity to reflect on these matters as I have sat stationary in my motor vehicle on SH2, in doing so, concluding the NZTA $200m Road to Zero campaign is an absolute success given it is a Road to Zero kph!

And wondering how we get this so wrong, but more so, what is poor planning costing us economically and socially, the effect on our health and well-being, and the loss in time and opportunity for the education of our children

At a recent infrastructure conference, Transport Agency CE Nicole Rosie described the highway network as being at a ‘tipping point’, talked about the ‘ customer experience’, and posed the question to the assembled hoi polloi, “What is your experience of the network and do you think it is in a fit state for NZ?”

CE Rosie left the audience to decide what the answer was

As I have previously outlined, the Local Government Act is the overarching legislation under which your Council and Community Board acts. Section 10 states

The purpose of local government is

(a) to enable democratic local decisionmaking and action by, and on behalf of, communities; and

(b) to promote the social, economic, envi-

ronmental, and cultural well-being of communities in the present and for the future

Ponder those words and their meaning Are the elected officials meeting that legislative threshold? Like Rosie, I will let you, the reader decide what the answer is

Meantime Local Government will oft tell me their hands are tied; they are the instrument of Central Government Exhibit A, the Medium Density Residential Standards (MDRS) introduced by the current government in 2021 Fine, we all can agree we do not have enough houses, including social housing The question I ask Council is, do we do density well? Some Councils have watered down parts of the MDRS, while Christchurch City Council voted to not adopt them at all Fair play to them Ask the residents of Kaimai Views how we fare on urban design More so, what are we doing to mitigate the elements that do not work (lack of parking, plantings in both roadside and reserve areas)? After that, are we aware of what is being notified and planned for the developments off Prole Road?

Meanwhile, we continue to develop this peninsula with less than adequate infrastructure to support the planned residential housing While you may reside here, your work is elsewhere, right? And last time I looked, being a tradie or a nurse, for example, how is public transport going to serve you get to your place of work anytime that works? And don’t mention our children After all, up to 2hrs 38 minutes on a bus is just nuts (my personal best is well eclipsed as have only managed 1hr 38 to Tauranga CBD) So while it may not be popular, we are even more reliant on the motor car

As a citizen, dad and elected member, I urge you all to take a close interest in the further development of the peninsula At the end of the day, ask yourself, is local government abiding by the intent of s 10? If not, then why and what do you need to do about it - rhetorical question, like Rosie’s

Aongatete Forest Project

Aongatete Forest Project is a wellorganised, friendly, volunteerbased organisation controlling pests in 500ha of the Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park Threatened native species are showing encouraging signs of recovery, but the health of the forest relies on our ongoing efforts More help with our trapping and baiting programme is both welcome and needed We have non-forest-based roles for volunteers too

Volunteer sessions are held 8 30am-12 noon on the first and third Wednesdays of every month and on selected Saturday mornings throughout the year at Pikirangi Road (far end of Wright Road, off SH2) in Aongatete

For more information, visit www aongateteforest org, facebook com/ aongatete or email events@aongatete forest.org or call 07 808 0792.

Our Team Continues To Produce AMAZING RESULTS

SOLD

Outstanding!

“Angela went more than the extra mile for us Always available for advice constant in her perseverance and determination to achieve a successful outcome

Professionalism knew no bounds Her lovely friendly personality was always evident no matter the hour of the day! We soon understood why she was recommended to us and we are so grateful to Angela ”

18 ALEXANDER STREET, KATIKATI - Brought to the market by Angela Fowler

Excellent service

We were really impressed with our service from Noel We chose Noel as he was a family man and had a really great name in the community which we felt would help with our house sale He did not disappoint - not only did he get a huge amount of potential buyers through the property we also got an o er within a few weeks Throughout the process Noel kept us informed he was always a phone call/text away and we found he gave us a high level of professionalism with a friendly manner We will be recommending Noel to others "

5 VANTAGE PLACE, OMOKOROA - Brought to the market by Noel Benstead

SOLD SOLD

Janine is an awesome real estate agent.

"Janine kept us fully informed of all aspects of our sale process at all times and o ered suggestions on options available to us when appropriate She provided a weekly report on prospective purchasers and details of internet interest Janine was always readily available to discuss any aspect of our marketing and sales process Should the opportunity arise, we would certainly commission her again "

5 MCKENNA LANE, OMOKOROA - Brought to the market by Janine Parker

Claridges Real Estate - the new generation

By Matthew Farrell

The new owner of Claridges Real Estate says he has grabbed a fantastic opportunity to take over a business with very high moral and professional standards

While Robyn Mayne and Mike Wade have sold Claridges, Brent Dodunski says they will remain a big part of what they created

“The reason for the sale was a re-examining of life post-Covid for both parties Robyn and Mike have grandchildren in Australia they’d like to see more of. I wanted a quality business I could continue to maintain the boutique feel of

“We bumped into each other while looking at properties in Ōmokoroa I talked to Robyn and Mike over coffee, and we were in touch for nearly two years Then Robyn called one day and said they were ready for us to take over the business We agreed they would stay involved, as selling homes is their passion We jumped at the opportunity to build on their good work with a growing team of seven salespeople,” says Brent

Brent is part of a long farming history in Taranaki

“I was a third-generation dairy farmer with 1,200 stock across Taranaki before I had health issues Taranaki weather can change quickly, and unfortunately, that does not bode well for my health I need a more consistent and mild temperature I got into rural realty, and it has gone well, but we were looking for a new challenge, so this is a great fit for us

“We are very family orientated with old-school morals We’ve been looking to relocate north, and the bonus is we are closer to our son and his partner and our first moko We also have two daughters in Wellington and Taranaki,” he says

There is also a sporting history, including 11 years on the board of Central Football, the Federation for Taranaki, Whanganui, Manawatū, Hawkes Bay and Tairāwhiti Gisborne

“I played as a central defensive and midfielder from the ages of five to 50, and one of our daughters played rep football I am now on a charitable trust for football, and I still give back to the game, ” Brent says

After a spell in Pāpāmoa in the early ‘90s before returning

to Taranaki with his wife Milly, Brent says they are coming back to the Bay with fresh energy and a commitment to establishing themselves in the community

“We love the climate, especially the temperature, and the small-town community vibe The peninsula is growing, and that’s exciting to me as we also have a history of property development work ”

Looking ahead, they’ll be building a home in Ōmokoroa using local builder Chris Moon to construct it and Steve Archer as their architect

For more on the new look team, visit claridgesrealestate co nz

Wild weather impacts roading

Heavy rain yet again had a widespread impact on the roading network throughout the Bay of Plenty on Tuesday 9th May, with slips, downed trees and flooding causing traffic delays and unsafe conditions.

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency advised against all unnecessary travel around the region, saying heavy traffic was impacting the ability of contractors to respond quickly to numerous issues

Drivers were advised to drive to the conditions, increase following distances and expect the unexpected

The agency says potholes are prevalent and can’t be remedied until the weather eases

A large tree was down on State Highway 2, blocking both lanes just south of Ōmokoroa Road A detour was in place via Barret Road, Old Highway, and Youngson Road

State Highway 29 was closed due to flooding in the lower Kaimai Ranges and a slip at McLaren Falls Road Flooding was also reported on SH36 between Rotorua and Tauranga, SH5 and SH30

Metservice issued an orange heavy rain warning and a severe thunderstorm watch for 12 hours across the Bay of Plenty. Fire and Emergency received 48 weather-related calls across the Bay from 4pm to 6pm

The new owner of Claridges Brent Dodunski PHOTO: Supplied

Ōmokoroa Remembers ANZAC

By Chris Dever and Greg Taylor Convenors

The Ōmokoroa Community remembered ANZAC in even greater numbers than last year

The Memorial Cairn in the Crapp Reserve was the rallying point for the “Poppies on the Point Dawn Service” at 6am The start was delayed as the First Responders from the Ōmokoroa Fire Brigade dealt with a medical emergency with the collapse of one of the crowd Thankfully the gentleman concerned is now making good progress, thanks to the First Responders’ swift action

Once underway, the team conducting the service were: Piper Dave Duncanson, Karakia by Rāwiri Kuka, MC Chris Dever, Dedication by Howard North, a poem by Greg Taylor, and very efficient Flag Orderly Alison North

A highly informative and touching address was delivered by local resident Bill Harmon The crowd was treated to two flypasts, the first a Harvard and later an impeccably-timed pair of Stearman biplanes, just as Bill was talking of soldiers being pinned down in their trenches.

Chris Dever read the poem by the late Dave Woodhouse called “Ōmokoroa Remembers ” Wreaths were laid on behalf of the WBOPDC,

By Bronwyn Carter Interim Chair

Are you interested in making Ōmokoroa and the world a better place to live?

Do you like to surround yourself with positive ‘can-do’ people?

Do you care about the environment that surrounds you?

Ōmokoroa Community Board, Ōmokoroa Fire Brigade, Ōmokoroa Lions, iGirls Ōmokoroa and Wild Hogs Ōmokoroa

Len Riggir did the honours with the Last Post and Reveille, and after the National Anthem, unfortunately, cut short by a technical problem with the music, Matthew Needham gave the benediction The crowd were served Milo and ANZAC biscuits on site, which proved popular

With the growing attendance each year, we realise we will need to upgrade the speaker system to enable everybody to better hear over the wider area

The 11am Community Service at CHT Acacia Park was again conducted by the Dawn Service team as well as Councillor Murray Granger delivering the Governor General’s message Local resident Wayne Johnstone recited his own very moving poem, “ANZAC ”

This service was well-attended, but we would love to see more families attend next year

Thanks to everyone who contributed to a successful ANZAC Day remembrance It takes great community spirit to make this happen –from those who volunteer their time to assist in the preparation and participation in the services, those who baked ANZAC biscuits and all those who attended

Ōmokoroa Rotary

If you reply ‘ yes ’ to any one of these questions, then Rotary is an option for you Rotarians come from all walks of life, and they share a common interest: they are women and men with a desire to serve Service to the community, to the environment and to the world are common Rotary themes

The new Rotary Club of Ōmokoroa is

up and running now with the support of the Rotary Club of Katikati, with over fifty years of service experience We meet every second Tuesday morning at 7 30am

Our first project will be a beach cleanup on Ōmokoroa Beach on Saturday 1st July at 9am You’re welcome to join us Ōmokoroa Rotary members and their

partners are gathering at the Ōmokoroa Boat Club on Sunday 11th June at 6 30pm for dinner and drinks If you are interested in learning more about Rotary and what it has to offer, we would love to meet you For catering purposes, please advise your plans to attend by phone or text Bronwyn Carter: 021 236 4623

sure, we enclose a small number of shots from our members on this month’s theme of ‘Golden’

The night would not be complete without our 2023 educational content Local wedding photographer Steve Brown provided a very basic but informative session on removing distracting objects and touching up small unwanted spots on our photographs This was very valuable information that many of us will be able to use going forward

By Gary Meynell

The club met on Tuesday the 9th of May at the Ōmokoroa Sports Pavilion on Western Avenue Our evening always starts with a couple of announcements, and this time it was no different One of those announcements was the fact that the society was approached by a local resident Sarah Campbell, who organised the Pink Ribbon Breakfast She was after a photographer to donate their time to photograph the event Luckily, we were able to assist her, and one of our local photographers kindly assisted in recording the event for her

It has become quite clear over the last

few months that the educational content we have provided for our members is paying off No longer are we receiving quick snapshots to review and critique Most of the members are now putting a bit of thought into their shots and spending a bit of extra time planning and even going to the trouble of setting up their shots

We have encouraged this kind of creativity for a while now, and the message is getting through For your viewing plea-

Whether you are keen to upgrade your photography skills by utilising our educational workshops or you require a photographer for an event, feel free to get in touch with us through our Facebook page by searching for “Ōmokoroa Photographic Society”

Let us transform your home...

Angie’s aspect

By Angie Warren-Clark Labour List MP based in Bay of Plenty

Construction on transport projects is progressing well around our region, despite what the National Party would lead you to believe, making promises with no logistical or financial plans behind them We’ve allocated the funding, are building the roads, and have invested heavily in safety improvements like roundabouts and safety barriers, including in Ōmokoroa I lobbied for these changes locally alongside Jan Tinetti and am pleased they’re enhancing safety and access

The Tākitimu North Link moves forward, despite unforeseen challenges You can’t control the weather, which can greatly impact project timelines There are usually around 100 annual earthworks days between the drier months

We are local builders and would love to hear from you for an obligation-free chat, to see if we can transform your homeor build you a stunning new one

We pride ourselves on the quality of our work We can provide full management of your project

From 1st October last year to 30th April this year, there have only been 65 production days

Todd Ward LBP

www.serenityhomes.co.nz

At the recent International Erosion Control Association Conference, Tākitimu North Link project’s environmental manager Stephanie Kirk spoke about their weather forecasting pilot study It’s attracting international attention producing good results for more reliable forecasting to enable more informed decisions around weather impacts

Because this project area sits between the ocean and the Kaimai Range,

publicly available weather forecasts aren’t accurate - particularly around localised rainfall

Budget 2023 further supports our region The ‘Future of Rail – Rail Network Investment Programme’ provides funding for KiwiRail to complete a detailed business case for electrification of the North Island Main Trunk line and the rail network between Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga Another $3 million of funding is going into the wider Bay of Plenty as part of an investment package to build resilience in the roading network with significant upgrades for slip prevention, flood mitigation, and managing the risk of sea level rise around the country

Of course, at the heart of Budget 2023 is the practical cost of living support across some of the core expenses facing families, like healthcare and childcare We’re scrapping the $5 prescription fee from July this year That’s great news for everyone, particularly those who have multiple prescriptions to fill on a regular basis Twenty hours of free Early Childhood Education is being extended to two-year-olds, saving young families an estimated $133 20/week in childcare costs There is also an extension to the Healthy School Lunches programme, which saves families with two children an estimated average of $60/week

Authorised by Angie Warren-Clark, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn MPs’ staff are funded by the Parliamentary Service

Rachel Buer

Bruce Thomson

Jeff Martin

Evelyn Hoddinott

Brian Ebbett

Kerbside Collective saves material and money

Western Bay, you ’ ve done it again! You’ve increased the amount of waste diverted from landfill by 20 per cent compared to last year

Since Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s kerbside rubbish and recycling service hit the streets in July 2021, the community has surpassed expectations by doubling the amount we expected to divert from landfill in 2021-22, and by building on that number again this year

The stats for the year projected to 30th June 2023 show the average Western Bay household has increased their weekly recycling (mixed recycling, glass and food waste) by 20 per cent, compared to numbers from 2021-22

Tony Wilson, Council’s Solid Waste Contract Manager, says now that we have nearly two years of stats, we can see some great trends emerging

“The numbers are showing us exactly what we want to see Our communities are increasing recycling compared to last year (2021-22) and decreasing waste sent to landfill

“And although Covid lockdowns did affect last year ’ s landfill numbers, there’s still a lot to be celebrated here The total amount of waste has gone down, even after us adding another 463 homes to our kerbside service ”

Plus, the Pay-As-You-Throw tag system is saving our households some money

The average Western Bay household only puts their red bin out 31 per cent of the time, and because they only pay for what they use, not a flat annual rate, they’re keeping some cash in their pocket

Tony says that while these numbers are exciting, we know there’s always room for improvement We’re ready and keen to see what we can do next year

“From 1st July, we kick off a new year of kerbside collections, and we ’ re asking you to take on the kerbside challenge for 2023-24 If everyone does their bit, we can reduce our waste to landfill even more, and shows we ’ re doing more than just recycling – we ’ re changing our habits and only buying the things we need and opting for reusable items before recyclable items

“Let’s get competitive and outdo ourselves next year ”

Tony’s top tips for reducing waste: Use your food scraps bin (or home compost) We can reduce waste by putting food scraps in your food scraps bin (collected every week) or composting them in your backyard This includes fruit and vegetable scraps, rice, pasta, eggshells, coffee grounds, meat, seafood shells, bones, as well as cooked food – leftovers, mouldy or rotten

You can line this food scraps bin with brown paper or newspaper, or freeze scraps until collection day to help keep the bin clean and odour free.

Purchasing wisely – avoid unnecessary packaging You can easily reduce waste by buying products that come with less or recyclable packaging Not all plastics are recyclable Containers labelled with 1, 2 and 5 are accepted and should be placed in the yellow lid recycling bin along with paper, cardboard, cleaned empty steel tins and aluminium cans

Never miss an opportunity to recycle

We’re kicking off our third year of the kerbside service with a new calendar showing which bins - glass or recycling – need to go out each week

This year ’ s calendar also has the details for changes in the public holiday collections affecting the week of Christmas and New Year, and the collections on Good Friday in 2024

Here’s how to get your calendar: download a calendar from our website kerbsidecollective co nz, cut out a calendar from Page 23, pick up a free printed calendar from one of our library and service centres or get weekly reminders on your phone via the Antenno app Download the app via westernbay govt nz/antenno Article supplied

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Love

Trio of tree plantings to mark coronation

Three native trees were planted in Council reserves across the Western Bay marking the coronation of a new monarch for New Zealand and a new chapter in history

Western Bay of Plenty District Council joined a national effort to plant native trees co-ordinated by the Department of Internal Affairs in celebration of the coronation of His Majesty Charles III

The plantings took place on Saturday 6th May at Jubilee Park in Te Puke with a tītoki tree, Gerald Crapp Reserve in Ōmokoroa, a pūriri tree and Diggelmann Park, Katikati, a kauri tree

Western Bay Mayor James Denyer says, “The coronation of King Charles III is an historic occasion, and I am pleased that our District has the chance to be part of the celebrations The King has

By Gary Rooks

long been an advocate of sustainability and conservation, and so planting native trees to mark the start of his reign is very fitting

“I wanted each part of our district to be involved, so there will be a tree planted in each of our three wards Each native tree was chosen as being a species that will thrive in its new home ”

Over 45 plantings were planned by councils across Aotearoa over the weekend

Following the coronation, the Governor-General planted the final coronation tree at Government House in Wellington

The Department of Internal Affairs are recording GPS locations for all tree plantings with plans to create a webpage allowing everyone to find the King’s trees for years to come

Bowls class with a capital A

As I awoke and scratched my cranium for the first time in 2023, my immediate thoughts were centred on the previous night’s antics

This memory recall was triggered by a text message by some bloke called Kevin, announcing that our team had been entered into the upcoming social bowls season Oh dear

Firstly, I confirmed with my alleged teammates that, in fact, the above is indeed true Again, Oh dear

Not knowing what bowls actually is, we did some in-depth research So, with newfound knowledge, we were a bit more confident Bowls, as far as we could work out, is like cricket for old people that can’t bowl over-arm anymore Being Australian, this fell right into my skill set as we Aussies have a steeped and proud history with the under-arm delivery Confidence soared

Our now-mentor Kevin organised a practice for our team now called the “Hi-Jacks” which has a nice convict

ring to it Confidence took a hit Oh dear

Secondly, our newfound knowledge didn’t inform us that the bowl isn’t round, but rather like rolling an avocado at a white ball with the intent of hitting it This is, of course, impossible, as the bowl has a mind of its own and heads off in any direction it so chooses Hmm, food for thought

‘Wrong bias’ proved to be our strongest asset, as we plundered the opposition teams’ defences with our version of the “flipper” It was pure

class - with a capital “A”

Finally, and more seriously, this social event that ran over several weeks turned out to be an absolutely fun event where new friends were made and winning wasn’t the aim of the game; enjoyment was

Also, it is a game for all ages, as proved by this event

I can’t recommend this event for new players highly enough, and a job well done by Kevin and the crew at Katikati Bowls Club 10 out of 10

We will definitely be back SKIP

By appointment in Bethlehem

Mayor James Denyer plants a pūriri tree in the Gerald Crapp Reserve in Ōmokoroa

Countdown for candidates

By Matthew Farrell

With four months to go until the General Election, parties have been making candidate announcements in electorates of local interest Polling day is Saturday 14th October

Labour has selected Beryl Riley for Coromandel She is a Thames-based community mental health psychologist and former school principal, formerly of Tauranga

“I have a passion for social justice and for ensuring all our young people get equitable access to the kind of opportunities and services they need to thrive Labour is investing in our future by tackling the cost of living crisis, bringing down climate emissions, and building the infrastructure we need,” Beryl says

In 2020, National’s Scott Simpson held the seat with a reduced 3,505 majority over Nathaniel Blomfield, and Labour won the party vote by more than 5,000

As the incumbent for 12 years, Scott Simpson is ranked 10th on the party’s list

Coromandel’s been blue since 1972 with the exception of 1999, when Jeanette Fitzsimons took it for the Green Party with the backing of then Labour leader Helen Clark

Scott has been pushing National’s ‘Local Water Done Well’ policy and has been critical of NZTA over recent Wairoa River roadworks delays “Roll on October,” he says

Just down the road, 26-year-old communications executive Tom Rutherford is National’s candidate for Bay of Plenty, with incumbent MP Todd Muller retiring from politics

Tom is a volunteer firefighter with the

Mount Maunganui Fire Station, a New Zealand hockey umpire and a Bay of Plenty rugby referee

“I want to be part of a team with the track record and plans to strengthen our economy so we can lower the cost of living, lift incomes, build infrastructure, restore law and order, and deliver better health and education My priority is to meet as many people as I can to earn the right to advocate for them in Parliament,” says Tom

Labour has selected horticulturalist and trust director Pare Taikato for Bay of Plenty Locally based List MP Angie Warren-Clark will stand in Whangārei where she grew up

“As someone who has been a hard worker my whole life, and now as a leader in high-value horticulture, I want to ensure everyone who works hard in our communities can get ahead and improve their lives, whether that be as workers or business owners, ” says Pare

In Tauranga, incumbent Sam Uffindell of National is up against Labour’s current Minister of Education, Jan Tinetti Minor party Democracy NZ is standing lawyer Kirsten Murfitt

For the Māori electorate of Waiariki, incumbent Rawiri Waititi - co-leader of Te Pāti Māori - faces Labour candidate Toni Boynton, a Whakatāne councillor

The Electoral Commission says while many parties are selecting candidates now, the formal process happens much closer to the election Party nominations are open from Monday 28th August, until noon Thursday 14th September The deadline for independent candidates is 24 hours later See www vote nz for more information PHOTOS: Supplied

How exercise can help with seasonal affective disorder

By Nicole Dixon

Mind Your Movement Pilates

Winter is here, the rain has arrived, and the days are shorter

You may be feeling low in energy, have trouble sleeping, have difficulty concentrating or lose interest in activities These are all symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, or ‘SAD’ for short Rather fitting, isn’t it?

One of the best ways to fight off these winter blues is to exercise Research informs us the length of exercise doesn’t actually matter and, to a certain degree, the type doesn’t either

You can do as little as ten minutes of exercise to release endorphins and increase your metabolism, which will improve your energy levels

The best-suited exercise for treating

SAD has been found to be walking or dancing, but other exercises that are also great include yoga, Pilates, strength training and swimming

And whilst exercise indoors is great, if you can get outdoors to exercise over these winter months, stocking up on light has huge benefits on the quality of sleep we are getting and strengthening our immune system

So, just think - a quick ten-minute dance in the lounge or a 15-minute walk in the fresh air is all it takes

Some would even say increasing your exercise levels in winter is best As it can take up to three months of consistently doing an activity to develop a habit, it would be a shame to break that habit over the winter - when our body and mind need it the most

Beryl Riley Scott Simpson Tom Rutherford Pare Taikato

Te Puna Hall

By Sue Clarke

Hailed as a huge success, the inaugural Te Puna Harvest Market has locals and stall holders asking when the next one is Chair of the Te Puna Hall Committee, Ian Duncalf, was thrilled at the turnout which was exactly the outcome we wanted, he said The aim was to bring our community together, showcase the hall and provide a platform for local stallholders and fundraising groups to promote and sell their goods It was such a festive atmosphere with the live band, bunting and colourful tablecloths creating a nice vibe for an afternoon out to enjoy a welcome break in the rain “It is so nice to have a local event and chat with so many locals,” was the catchphrase of the day Tasty food from the food trucks ensured everyone was well-fed, with most sold out by the end of the day

Kids were happy and excited with the animals from the Rustic Charm Travelling

Farm with pigs, alpacas, sheep, a calf, rabbits, and a blue-tongued lizard to touch and feed My granddaughter had a great time and has been requesting to watch videos of her with the bunnies ever since As the Te Puna Library has closed its doors, there were over 3,000 library books to re-home, so market-goers were able to stock up for their winter reading Although not all were sold, a decent dent was made in the number of boxes, and the rest will be on-sold in the future

To go with the harvest theme, a giant pumpkin competition got locals involved in growing pumpkins, with a variety of prizes kindly donated by Daltons The largest pumpkin, grown by Alex Harrison, was a whopping 96 7kg The full results are Largest Pumpkin: 1st Alex Harrison 96 7kg, 2nd Niamh Lloyd, 3rd equal Harley Nicholas and Addison de Koster

Ugliest Pumpkin: Sarah Prebble Roundest Pumpkin: George and Amelia Reed Cutest Pumpkin: Millie and Harvey

Parker And as for the question of the next market, it looks like it might have to become an annual event, with a Christmas Market possibly in the pipeline

Patrons using the Te Puna Memorial Hall will now have the added comfort of air conditioning and heating installed earlier this month, thanks to a generous grant from local community trust TECT

The heating system installed when the hall was built was not effective as it was an infra-red system and didn’t circulate the warm air, nor did it function as air conditioning Thanks to TECT for their grant, it has been possible to install solar panels and air conditioning units Solar panels will generate electricity for the needs of the hall and potentially others in our community and will provide a cleaner, renewable energy source

Chair of TECT Peter Farmer says, “TECT was thrilled to help make the facility possible through our contribution towards its build in 2020, and it’s fantastic to see it now being regularly used by various groups

“We want to ensure the hall continues to be a desirable gathering place for the

community – one that is comfortable and fit for purpose The air conditioning will achieve this by providing year-round heating and cooling, while the solar panels will offset the additional power cost We’re pleased to be able to support a better experience for current and future users of the community space ”

Tessa of Victory Performance Dance Studio, who operates classes for over 15 hours a week in the hall, is delighted with the news as she had previously used handheld fans and spray bottles to keep cool She said it had been hard to keep the kids’ attention in the heat, and performances were challenging with the added heat from stage lighting “Now we don’t need to look for an alternative venue as the hall meets our needs,” Tessa says

This latest hall upgrade ticks the boxes for many of our planning goals, with a hall that meets our community requirements ensuring our financial sustainability, says hall treasurer Vicki Ostler

There are several different spaces to hire with all the information and links to an online booking system at www tepunahall nz

A dance class in the hall PHOTOS: Supplied

Alex Harrison in the denim and her friends with a whopper of a winning pumpkin

Friends of I’Anson Bush Reserve

By Shenagh Gleeson

Agroup of young Bay of Plenty environmentalists and their families recently planted 100 trees at I’Anson Bush Reserve in Te Puna to mark two significant birthdays

The planting celebrated Forest & Bird’s centenary and the 30th anniversary of the organisation’s junior arm, the Kiwi Conservation Club About 45 children and adults planted a range of native species

Forest & Bird adult members played a significant role in the creation of the reserve in 1987 on land gifted by Te Puna farmer Keith I’Anson Three years later, the Tauranga branch of the Kiwi Conservation Club’s work at the reserve began, with members planting 600 trees

One of the branch coordinators, Liesel Carnie, says photos of the plantings in areas of bare farmland in 1990 are unrecognisable compared to what is there today, and it was “ a fantastic opportunity to show the kids what value there is

in planting trees now ”

Yearly planting continued in a designated KCC area until 1996, and the club now plans to return to yearly work “We are now going to continue our legacy and come back each year to plant our trees Each time we come back to plant more, we will also weed around our older plantings to teach the kids about that and help out the volunteers who have monthly weeding sessions,” Liesel says

The volunteer group Friends of I’Anson Reserve, led by Kate Loman-Smith, will look after the trees as they grow The group is made up of Forest & Bird members and other supporters Kate says the volunteers have made huge progress on weed control and bulking up planting where appropriate “The transformation of bare farmland to well-established, regenerating bush is astounding The reserve is a treasure and a wonderful community asset to be enjoyed ”

For more information, email tauranga branch@forestandbird org nz

Playcentre raffle

Congratulations to Ōmokoroa

Playcentre raffle winners, Donelle and Jenna Thank you to everyone who bought tickets to help fund our badly needed roof replacement

A big thank you to all the sponsors for our wonderful prizes making this possible:

White House Restaurant Te Puna, Comfort Air, The Cheesecake Shop NZ, Parklands at Te Puna, Ōmokoroa Beach Pizzeria, Activ8 Fitness Boot Camp, Mind Your Movement Pilates, Challenge

Ōmokoroa, Sapphire Springs Holiday Park & Mineral Pools, Noel Benstead Tremains, Matthew Buer, Homemade4U, Ōmokoroa Pharmacy, Bethlehem Butchery, The Recovery Room, Marshalls Animal Park, The Black Sheep Bar & Grill, Grower Direct, Waihī Pizza Ōmokoroa, Akna - A Motherhood Journey, Kevin & Co Hairdressing, Ecomist NZ

Also, thanks to police officer James for the draw, and to Asset Roofing PHOTO: Rachel Buer

Forest & Bird and KCC s recent planting of 100 trees at I Anson Bush Reserve PHOTO: Supplied

Charlemagne Lodge

The team at Hope Family Funerals are looking forward to shortly moving to beautiful Charlemagne Lodge, 2 Loop Road, Te Puna Set in amazing grounds, mature trees, lovely gardens, with character-filled buildings and a warm and relaxed service venue –a very special place to celebrate the life of a loved one

We were fortunate to buy the property about three and a half years ago Charlemagne Lodge is an iconic Victorian-style building full of old-world charm, recycled kauri, rimu, leadlight windows and detailed fittings Although it looks 100 years old, it was built in the late 1990s by absolute craftspeople It was previously known as an attractive wedding venue With the help of many passionate people, we have been busy over the last couple of years enhancing the property’s existing character and grounds to create a stunning service venue and funeral home:

• Installing a new insulated ceiling and air conditioning in the service venue –we call the Tōtara Lounge The Tōtara

Lounge is now cool in summer and warm in winter

• Installing a new sound system, speakers and TVs

• Created 50 additional onsite sealed car parks, increasing the number to 90

• The Lodge has been kept in its stunning original state and will now be for our funeral directors to meet families and help them in a relaxed, warm atmosphere

• Renovated the cottage behind Charlemagne Lodge to include viewing rooms and a private space for loved ones ’ care

• Considerable plantings to compliment the park-like grounds

• Obtained a liquor license so families and friends, if they wish, can raise a glass to their loved one

• Additional outdoor café style seating so families and friends can relax and enjoy the gardens after the service Already, we have had many services in the Tōtara Lounge, in the gardens, musicians playing in the lounge or outdoor

gazebo, Mustangs and other classics on the lawn, traditional or high tea catering options, a glass of bubbles served prior to and/or after the service A recent living wake was a fantastic way of celebrating the life of a loved one while they are still with us. There are endless

personalised options available

We are very proud of what we have achieved and would love to show you Please call if you would like to visit –07 5433 151 A very special place to celebrate the life of a loved one Article supplied.

Karangahake Gorge disruption

The Karangahake Gorge between Waihī and Paeroa was closed several times last month

A slip blocked both lanes near the Crown Hill Bridge intersection on 1st May As contractors arrived to clear the road, Police were turning vehicles around to use SH25 and SH29 instead

Stop/Go traffic management was back in place on the 10th and 11th as contractors worked to clear a slip, fallen trees and a 30m tree posing a risk to the highway

Then on 19th May, the gorge was blocked again after a truck versus car accident which reportedly left a truck on its side

The team at Hope Funerals PHOTO: Supplied

A slip near Crown Hill Bridge intersection

Supplied A tree balances precariously

The Old Library Ōmokoroa

By Alison Badger

At TOLO, we are never satisfied to rest on our laurels, so to speak, and are always looking out for new artists to showcase Therefore we are delighted to be able to bring the artistic talent of David Henderson to Ōmokoroa for the month of June with his distinctive lino cut and printed artworks

David is both an artist and an art teacher His environment and community play an important part in the artwork he creates In addition to showcasing and selling his unique works of art, you can also follow the whole creative process on the ‘big screen ’ Visit www davidhenderson com au for more information

We are also pleased to have a new display stand made by and featuring the workmanship of our very own Ōmokoroa MenzShed Since its inception, MenzShed has established itself as an excellent community resource, able to repair broken items, make items from scratch, and not to forget the scissor and knife sharpening service they offer, let alone the quite invaluable opportunity to provide camaraderie and support to our menfolk

And are you in a book club? There seem to be so many different iterations of ‘book club’, and some even involve books! It has been suggested that there may be room for another one, not too serious but serious enough for those interested to share their thoughts and

reactions to the printed word

If this sounds like something you would like to explore, please contact us or pop into TOLO any day except Monday, between 10am and 1pm, and leave your contact details The proposed meeting time would be afternoon tea on a Friday but open to other suggestions Email t h e o l d l i b ra r yo m o ko ro a @ g m a i l c o m with your input.

King trumps Joker

By Matthew Farrell

There’s been cause for celebration at Ōmokoroa Boat Club, with member Maria King scooping the Joker’s Wild raffle jackpot of $5,000 on Friday 5th May

The maxed-out prize fund had to go under Department of Internal Affairs gaming rules Several other punters guessed unsuccessfully before Maria

correctly chose the top left corner, to the delight of well-wishers Congratulations, Maria

The annual member’s darts competition will be Sunday 11th June at 10am, and the member’s pool competitions start at 10am on the 18th Club vouchers are up for grabs as prizes; register at the club The AGM and prizegiving are at 3pm on the 25th

Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade

By Ian Blunt Chief Fire Officer

Ōmokoroa Volunteer Firefighters have been reasonably quiet again One weather-related afternoon saw the brigade attend four calls to trees down and flooding, and State Highway 2 was closed overnight One call on a Sunday was to assist St

John with lifting a person who had a dislocated knee out of a boat Two private fire alarm calls resulted in no brigade action

Our First Responders have been alerted 13 times so far this month The usual range of chest pains, breathing problems, a number of times assisting patients who had fallen and one who had a stroke on Thursday 25th May

Maria is congratulated by Commodore Cory Payne and Vice Commodore Stew Weir

In the barrel of the wave

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY – WEEKLY EVENTS

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

This is presented as a guide

We recommend you check with organisers

beforehand

The Old Library Ōmokoroa (TOLO), McDonnell Street 10am-4pm Tuesday-Sunday

Local history, community information and art for sale Contact Alison on 021 294 9294

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 15-

10 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 30-

10 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

Scottish Country Dancing 1-3 pm St Peter’s

Anglican Church, Beach Road $4 All ages, no

partner required Call Douglas 021 0244 6099

Bolivia Katikati 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

Table Tennis Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall Seniors

(18+) 7-9pm $3 per single, $5 per couple

Inc supper White-sole shoes preferred

Call Bruce Lauchlan on 548 1741

Social indoor netball term time at 6pm Apata

Community Hall - Pahoia School Ages 11+ $5

per night Beginners welcome Contact Kirsten 022 535 1530

ITF Taekwon-do at Te Puna School Hall

6-7 30pm Self defence, self confidence, fitness

First 2 weeks free George 022 437 4403

Cards 500 7pm at Ōmokoroa Bowling Club $3

incl tea and biscuits Prizes/raffles monthly

Carpooling from Katikati available Call

Lorraine Taylor on 548 1404

Indoor Bowls 7pm at Waihī Beach RSA

Contact Grant on 027 475 0556

TUESDAYS

Social Tennis Waihī Beach Tennis Club 8 30/

9 am start All year Casual & new players welcome Call 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

Justice of the Peace clinic at Waihī Beach

Library 11am-noon

Special needs class Dance/Plus 11am

St Peters Anglican Church Hall, Beach Road

Katikati Ph Gaye 07 577 1753 or 027 274 8753 email gayehemsley@gmail com

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

start All welcome Bowls and coaching

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

Ōmokoroa Bowling Club 12 30 to 4pm 30 Hamurana Road Beginners and visitors

welcome $5 Ph 021 255 6415

Katikati Bridge Club Katikati Memorial Hall

Lounge 1pm All levels welcome Contact

Estelle 021 187 1620 or Sara 021 999 806

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

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

membership Contact John Russell afactor@xtra co nz or 027 281 7629

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

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

FLexercise exercise, movement, dance, for posture, strengthening & stretching All ages & abilities 10am Memorial Hall, Katikati Phone Pam 021 11 77 170

Ōmokoroa Artists Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 10 45am-3 30pm $5 Contact Jill 021 408 660 or Facebook page: Ōmokoroa Artists

Adults Ballet/Plus 12 30 St Peters Anglican Church Hall, Beach Road Katikati Ph Gaye 07 577 1753 or 027 274 8753 email gayehemsley@gmail com

Katikati Bowling Club Combined Roll-up 1pm, names in by 12 45pm Coaching available Social activities to follow 8 Park Road ph 549 0103 Katikati Toy Library 2 30pm-4pm at the back of the Christian Centre on Henry Rd, Katikati

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

E: katikatitoylibrary@gmail com

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

Western Bay Museum Guided Tour 2pm WBOP residents and ratepayers FREE 32 Main Rd, Katikati Ph 07 549 0651

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY – WEEKLY EVENTS

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

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 30am-

12 30pm Contact Claudia 021 192 7706

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

Te Puna Quarry Park clearing, planting and weed control 1-4pm Contact Shirley 552 2707 Line Dancing Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall

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

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

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

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

Tai Chi for beginners Sports Pavillion, Western Ave, Ōmokoroa 10-11am Call Sabine

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

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

Ōmokoroa Contract Bridge Club

Bridge Improvers Course

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

Ōmokoroa 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 Chris 549 0958

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

Katikati Plant & Produce Market A&P

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

SATURDAYS

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

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

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

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

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

1pm Names in before 12 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

Thu 1st 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 2nd 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 3rd 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 3rd Festival of Cultures at Katikati Memorial Hall, Main Road, Katikati, 10am2pm Flag Parade starting from Moore Park to Katikati Memorial Hall, international food vendors, cultural performances, interactive cultural workshops Free family-friendly event

Sun 4th Katikati Folk Open Mic 5pm every 1st Sunday of the month Blackboard (open mic) session at Forta Leza, 2656 Main Highway, Aongatete

Mon 5th King’s Birthday

Mon 5th 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 5th Bethlehem/Te Puna Lions Club at Te Puna Community Centre Hall, Tangitū Road 1st and 3rd Monday evenings from 6 00pm Contact Colin 576 9110

Tue 6th Book Buzz Come and share your favourite reads with other book lovers 10am on the 1st Tuesday at Pātuki Manawa

Wed 7th Have a Go art class ‘Working with Clay’ with Hanneke de Graaf 9am-noon at Ōmokoroa Settlers Hall $20 inc materials and cuppa Book with Karin on baysyoga@xtra co nz or 027 486 0736

Wed 7th 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 7th Waihī Beach FOCUS Group 10am at Waihī Beach RSA Interesting speakers, interesting conversation and of course interesting people Every 1st Wednesday

Thu 8th Business Breakfast 7am-8am at Pātuki Manawa, beside the Library All welcome Ph 07 549 5250 Speaker: Kerry Web, Social Impact and Communications

Lead for Momenta

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY – JUNE

Thu 8th Friends of Puketoki Trapping/checking every 2nd Thursday Meet at Leyland Road carpark Call John Budden 548 1180 or Terry Edwards 552 6222

Thu 8th Ōmokoroa Business Network meeting 9am on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month Details available at omokoroabusinessnetwork@gmail com

Thu 8th Katikati Genealogy Group 2nd Thursday, Presbyterian Church Hall, 1 Mulgan Street at 1 30pm $5 New members welcome Contact Jeanette 027 348 3259

Thu 8th Foodlovers’ Masterclass with Kate Meads Ōmokoroa Community Church 6-8pm Learn to reduce food waste Tickets $17 inc free goodie bag from katemeads co nz

Fri 9th 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

Fri 9th Live Music Sadie & Jay hosted by Katikati Folk Club at The Arts Junction, 36 Main Road, Katikati 7 30pm

Sat 10th Toy Library pre-loved sale Baby & children’s clothes, toys, equipment, maternity At Katikati Toy Library, 13 Henry Road

Sat 10th 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 10th Patchwork Quilting at Ōmokoroa Settlers Hall 9am-4 30pm second Saturday each month Contact Christine 027 280 1344

Sun 11th Abbeyfield movie fundraiser A Stitch in Time at The Arts Junction, Katikati 2pm Tickets $15 from The Arts Junction

Sun 11th Katikati Psychic Cafe Katikati Community Centre 45 Beach Road 2nd and 4th Sundays 9-7pm $10 cash 027 336 3896 for FB: Katikati Psychic Cafe

Tue 13th Ōmokoroa Rotary meets every 2nd Tuesday at 7 30am For information contact Bronwyn Carter on 021 236 4623

Tue 13th Ōmokoroa Photographic Society Ōmokoroa Sports Pavilion Social Room All levels welcome 7-9pm on 2nd Tuesday of the month omokoroaphotoclub@gmail com

Tue 13th Katikati Creative Fibre 7pm on 2nd Tuesday of the month at St Paul’s, Mulgan Street $5 Email marparmail@gmail com

Tues 13th Katikati Volunteer Expo 5 30-7 30pm at The Arts Junction, Katikati All welcome

Wed 14th U3A Katikati monthly meeting 10am-noon in the Digital Hub next to the Library on 2nd Wednesday each month

Guest speaker Paula Gaelic, Western Bay

Museum Call Pam Mazoyer 021 104 2925

Wed 14th 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 14th Katikati Herb Society Every 2nd Wednesday at 7pm at St Paul’s church Contact Fiona 022 684 5178

Thu 15th Genealogy support Help with research into family history and DNA searches Ōmokoroa Library, 3rd Thursdays 10am One-on-one help available at other times Contact Lyn on 027 259 6643 or lynevaughan@gmail com

Fri 16th 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

Thu 16th Fun Mixed Doubles Ōmokoroa

Tennis Club Western Ave Third Thursday of the month from 5 30-7 30pm

Sat 17th Katikati Artisan Market 9am-1pm Chrome Cafe, 3 Wharawhara Road, Katikati 3rd Saturday of the month

Sat 17th Death Café 9 30am at Ōmokoroa Boat Club, The Esplanade, Ōmokoroa

Sun 18th Sunday Scribblers Working on memoirs Fun writing exercises to warm up 3rd Sunday of each month 11am-12 30pm Chrome Cafe, 3 Wharawhara Road, Katikati Contact Gaye on gayehemsley@gmail com or 027 274 8753

Sun 18th Katikati Folk Club Jam sessions 5pm 3rd Sunday of the month Informal jam sessions at Forta Leza, 2656 SH2, Aongatete

Sun 18th Friendship Force Ōmokoroa Setters’ Hall 3rd Sunday evening of the month Ph Jonathan on 572 2091

Mon 19th 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 19th 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 20th Book Buzz Share your favourite reads with other book lovers 10am every 3rd Tuesday at Ōmokoroa Library

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

Thu 20th Katikati Youth Theatre for youth aged 12-30 Games, learning and fun Supper included Third Tuesday of the month from 7-9pm kkyouththeatre@gmail com

Wed 21st Aongatete Forest Project working bee Top of Wright Road 9am12 30pm 1st and 3rd Wednesday morning of the month Visit aongateteforest org/join

Thu 22nd Ōmokoroa Business Network meeting 9am on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month Details available at omokoroabusinessnetwork@gmail com

Thu 22nd Probus Club of Ōmokoroa 9 3011 30am at Ōmokoroa Setters’ Hall every 4th Thursday of the month Contact Wavyne 548 1233 or Jean 548 2239

Fri 23rd On Point Coffee Club Coffee and a chat every 4th Friday of the month at 1 30pm at the Ōmokoroa Boat Club Contact Lorraine Barnes on 548 2351 Everyone welcome

Fri 23rd Grow On Katikati Soup Social and AGM Katikati Community Centre from 5 307 30pm Bring your pre-chopped veg to add to the soup! Koha Book via membersgrowonkatikati@gmail com

Fri 23rd to July 1st Katikati Theatre presents ‘Third Week in August’ by Peter Gordon, at the Arts Junction, 36 Main Road Katikati Tickets $20 Ph 07 549 1658

Sat 24th Repair Cafe makers, fixers and tinkerers working to divert broken items from landfill 8 30am-noon the last Saturday of the month repaircafe@tinkd nz 148 Durham Street, Tauranga

Sat 24th Katikati Lions Garage Sale 4th Saturday of each month May-Nov Behind Caltex, Main Road Katikati 9am till noon Tools, furniture, books, art and much more Ph 07 578 1073

Sat 24th Ōmokoroa Market 9am to noon Last Saturday each month except Dec Crafts art, produce, bbq, plants, car boot, cafe and more E: omokoroamarket@gmail com

Sun 25th Solstice Swim Ōmokoroa Domain at 12 30pm Contact Russell on 021 153 0767 or mothcork@gmail com for more information

Sun 25th Pest Trap Library at the container next to Whakamārama Hall 3-5pm Last Sunday of the month

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

Sat 1st July Ōmokoroa Beach cleanup with Ōmokoroa Rotary from 9am Contact Bronwyn Carter on 021 236 4623

Wed 5th July Have a Go art class ‘Fun with Watercolour’ with Mary Avis 9am-noon at Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall $20 inc materials and cuppa Book with Karin on baysyoga@xtra co nz or 027 486 0736

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

Ka pai team!

Recycling Collection Calendar 2023-24

Always learning at Te Puna School

By Kylie Chambers and

Sam

O’Neill

Remembering ANZAC On Friday 28th April, Sergeant Carlin O’Neill came to visit Te Puna School to share some information on the New Zealand Defence Force and what ANZAC Day is all about The tamariki loved it They especially loved trying on the uniform He visited all of the classes in the school, and they all had brilliant questions about the Defence Force, Anzac Day and his missions overseas representing New Zealand

He even did a push-up competition with the seniors after talking about the recruiting and fitness process We are so lucky to have his knowledge shared with us, and potentially we have inspired some of our tamariki for a future in defence

Every second Friday, our senior syndicate takes part in interesting challenges These activities allow children to develop problem-solving strategies and skills in working together as a team

This time they were given the following challenge: A Disneyland ticket fell into a drain, and the children had

Honour for Carlton

By Matthew Farrell

Pirirākau’s Carlton Bidois became a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in last month’s investiture ceremonies at Government House in Wellington for services to the environment and MāoriCrown relations

Among other outstanding New Zealanders, there was a knighthood for former Director-General of Health Sir Ashley Bloomfield and a Damehood for Black Fern legend and World Rugby Hall of Fame inductee Dame

Farah Palmer

Luteru Ross Taylor was recognised for services to cricket and Pacific communities, being made a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit

A special Bravery Awards ceremony honoured rescuers in the Whakaari / White Island eruption on 9th December 2019

So

to get it out using the materials they were given - one roll of string, some blu tack, two iceblock sticks, a few pegs and a couple of rubber bands

There was lots of excitement when the children managed to get the ticket out of the bucket They were frustrated when their rescue items fell in the drain as well, and they weren’t allowed to get them out again Once

they had retrieved the ticket, they had to use a different method to get it out the second time, and they were restricted to fewer items that they could use Lots of fun

Todd talk

By Todd Muller Bay of Plenty MP

Opposition Leader Christopher Luxon has released National’s plan to restore fiscal discipline, curtail wasteful spending and ensure that public finances are reported clearly National will focus on funding frontline services such as schools and hospitals National’s Leader has shared three initiatives aimed at ensuring fiscal discipline: Annual reports from the Treasury on the performance and results of major programmes; Clearly itemised receipts from IRD showing what tax has been paid, what credits have been received and where your taxes were spent in the public service, and Government department CEOs and deputies will have their salaries linked to achievement, ensuring

If it’s worth doing, we can help you do it right first time!

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accountability and greater performance

Government agencies should monitor programmes, collect data, and measure performance The Auditor General has raised this consistently and has been calling for it for some time now

Under National, Ministers would face public scrutiny for how well different programmes are working It’s taxpayers ’ money, and we all deserve to know what it’s being spent on, but unless you ’ ve worked in the machine in Wellington or have trained for years in accounting or economics, it’s impossible to work out how much money the Government spends, and where it all goes

New Zealand’s economic engine must start humming again, and these initiatives will be part of National’s process to restore the fiscal discipline that taxpayers deserve and the economy needs

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Problem solving - rescue the Disneyland ticket! PHOTOS: Supplied

Sergeant Carlin O Neill visited Te Puna School

$20m storm damage progress

Te Puke The bridge over Raparapahoe Stream washed out on 29th January, affecting the 30 properties above it

By Alisha Evans

Local Democracy Reporter

alisha@thesun co nz

The majority of storm damaged roads in the Western Bay of Plenty have reopened, but the repair bill could total $20 million

Severe weather in January and Cyclone Gabrielle a week later caused more than 100 slips in the district that damaged roads

Western Bay of Plenty District Council transportation manager Jim Paterson provided an update on the repair progress at the council’s project and monitoring meeting

His report to council showed the estimated costs of repairs at $19,077,971

“The good news is we ’ ve been able to progress the original 15 or so road closures So we ’ ve pretty much got everything open except Te Puna Station Road,” said Paterson

Te Puna Station Road was down to one lane prior to anniversary weekend because of slip damage, then it was fully

closed after more slips

Parts of the cycleway along the road completely washed away towards the Wairoa River

Deputy Chief Executive and infrastructure general manager Gary Allis said the council would install concrete barriers at the closure to try to avoid or reduce the antisocial behaviour and rubbish dumping that was occurring

Allis said an assessment was underway

Exciting new creative projects kick off across the Western Bay

Dance and writing workshops, a new studio art trail, the development of pā harakeke with local hapū, and support for young people in the arts are just a few of the projects becoming a reality thanks to Creative Communities funding

Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Creative NZ’s latest funding round of the Creative Communities Scheme sees financial support given to ten diverse projects that will engage the community in creative and innovative ways over the next 12 months

Assessment panel member and Western Bay Councillor, Anne Henry was happy to be involved in the process for the eighth time running and was pleased to see more applicants putting their ideas forward

“We’re so thrilled to be supporting the more creative projects across the Western Bay of Plenty The arts play a really important role in our community’s wellbeing, and as an industry, they don’t get enough credit for the value they contribute

“Congratulations to all the applicants for putting their ideas forward ”

Waihī Beach and Katikati have benefitted from the fund, with Jared Hemopō receiving a grant to develop and facilitate dance workshops for young people in these areas

“Kaha Movement is a new innovative workshop series designed to help participants create movement and explore their body’s natural pathways I’m very excited to bring this kaūpapa into the world of light and thank Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Creative NZ for their support,” says Jared, who is a choreographer and the workshop facilitator

The Western Bay Heritage Trust received a grant to build on the success of the recent ‘Pā Harakeke’ planting and

opening to establish pā harakeke for each of the three northern marae of Tauranga Moana

“This is stage two, with the journey so far enabling solid partnerships to be built with our hapū There are 60 different harakeke species, and our intention is to bring a varied selection back to each of the kāinga We also hope to support the development of future weavers at each of these marae and in the wider community,” says Western Bay Museum Manager Paula Gaelic

Katch Katikati received funding for a community workshop to create large lanterns for Matariki, while Katikati Open Air Art facilitated pottery workshops for children and adults during the Easter school holidays Ōmokoroa Crochet and Crafters will bring the community together to make a large-scale Christmas tree out of crochet squares, and BOP Open Studios will facilitate an open art studio weekend where artists will open their studios to the public

The Creative Communities Scheme aims to increase participation from the local community in arts, culture and creativity, support the diversity of local cultural traditions, and encourage and engage young people to participate in local arts It’s open to any group or individual that has a creative project that will engage the community

Creative Bay of Plenty administers the Creative Communities Scheme on behalf of Western Bay of Plenty District Council and is available to help with applications

Two rounds of funding are allocated each year The next funding round will open in early September, with further information and eligibility criteria found at creativebop org nz/support/creativecommunities-scheme/

For more detailed project summaries, check out Creative Bay of Plenty online, creativebop org nz Article supplied

into the options to either reinstate a one lane section of the road or close it to vehicles but keep the cycleway

He said the main factor in the council’s assessment of this would be traffic flows

“If it’s a single lane, it’ll be an exit from Te Puna

“Reopening as a two lane road will be extremely difficult and expensive ”

The estimated cost to reopen the road fully would be around $4 million, said Allis

“We would be struggling to justify that and get the funding for it ”

Reopening it to a one lane road would be less than $1 million, Allis estimated

“There will be a community consultation process about what the community’s views are on closing it or reopening as a single lane ”

Work was also continuing on plans for a permanent bridge on No 4 Road in

A temporary Bailey bridge was opened in March and the goal was to replace this with a permanent one within a two year timeframe, said Patterson

He said it was possible that timeline “might slide” Projected costs for the permanent bridge was $8 million

Other sites that were affected by storm damage included, Ōropi Gorge Rd, Rocky Cutting Road, Lund Road, No 3 Road in Te Puke, Wairoa Road and Te Puke Quarry Road

Funding for the repairs would come from the council and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency Normally Waka Kotahi co-funded roading projects at 51 per cent, this increased to 71 per cent when the annual costs increased above 10 per cent of the roading programme

But, the Government recently committed to fund initial emergency works response activity to 91 per cent up to June 2023, due to the cyclone’s impact on the upper North Island’s local roading network

Patterson said the $20 million annual cost for emergency event works was “ unusual” compared to previous years

“We’ve been talking to Waka Kotahi in terms of trying to maximize the amount of work or level of delivery we can achieve before the end of the current year because we get that at 91 per cent [contribution] as opposed to our usual

“We are going as hard and fast as we can to spend as much of that before the end of the financial year, ” said Patterson Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air

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Te Puna Station Road could be permanently closed after slips PHOTO: Matthew Farrell

An unreal pane

For the second time in two months, a man known to Police has been doorknocking to offer a substandard or non-existent window or house exterior cleaning service - this time in the Plummers Point Road area

Ōmokoroa Neighbourhood Support and Community Patrol say victims report that the man has no equipment and either does a poor job or no job at all

The advice is to be wary, check credentials, and not part with any money, as the man frequently moves between Tauranga and Waihī with a driving accomplice

Call 105 if you have any details to report

Suspicious man near school

Tauranga Police are asking for information and reviewing CCTV after three school students reported suspicious

behaviour by a man on 19th and 20th Avenue

Approaches to young people were alleged on the evening of 10th May and the morning of 11th May

Police say the community should be alert rather than alarmed, and that parents should talk to children about what they should do if they feel unsafe

Rain slows path progress

Work has been continuing on the Katikati shared path, but Council admits some delays have been caused by recent wet weather Contractors can’t pour concrete in the rain so progress has been slowed

Once completed, the shared path will provide a safe and picturesque 2 5m wide trail between the Yeoman Bridge and Park Road Reserve for walkers, runners, e-scooters, wheelchair users and mobility scooter riders

Festival of Cultures

The Katikati Festival of Cultures is back on Saturday 3rd June, from 10am-2pm at the Katikati Memorial Hall

A flag parade from Moore Park will kick off the event, followed by cultural performances, workshops, and international food

It’s a fantastic day out for all the family, celebrating all the diverse cultures in our community

Community Event Fund

Tauranga and Western Bay community event organisers now have access to more funding than ever before, thanks to a $200k boost to the Tauranga Western Bay Community Event Fund

It was established by Acorn Foundation, Bay Trust, TECT, Tauranga City

and Western Bay of Plenty District councils to streamline the application process

People planning a community event in the Western Bay are encouraged to apply for funding

Eat well for less

Waste reduction expert Kate Meads returns to Ōmokoroa in June for her widely popular Foodlovers Masterclass

You can join Kate at the Ōmokoroa Community Church on Thursday 8th June, and learn about why we waste food and how to stop it

There will be a few face-palm moments and lots of laughs You will leave inspired with a goodie bag of products designed to cut down on food waste

Tickets are $17 from www katemeads co nz

Scott says

By Hon Scott Simpson MP For Coromandel

It’s a total shambles Construction of a cycleway on the Wairoa Bridge has caused weeks of delays, frustration and inconvenience to tens of thousands of local road users

SH2 from Katikati to Tauranga is an ongoing disaster at the best of times, but this latest intervention by NZTA and their contractors is just rubbing salt into an already very raw wound For regular commuters from Ōmokoroa, Katikati and surrounds, the huge traffic jams have been totally unacceptable I don’t believe for one minute that NZTA couldn’t have organised a far less disruptive cycleway construction than has been this current debacle

Surely they could have arranged for the work to be done in a way that minimised disruption Perhaps doing the work at night and keeping the bridge clear during

daylight hours Perhaps working on a 24hour, seven days a week schedule to get the work done as quickly as possible rather than dragging it out over such a long time frame

I’m not a roading engineer, but what I do know is this project has caused huge, and as far as I can see unnecessary delays

The lost time, lost productivity, and frustration caused to drivers has been massive The disruption is utterly unacceptable and is a result of a lack of coordination from NZTA I’ve driven that road to and from Tauranga several times recently, and it’s no wonder to me why people are so angry It represents all that is wrong with the way NZTA and the current government operate.

Roll on October If you have any issue you wish to discuss with me, don’t hesitate to get in touch by either calling 0800 550 330 or emailing mpcoromandel@parliament govt nz

How Police respond to youth crime

Continued from P23 March edition:

What role do you think the community can or should play in helping reduce the incidence of youth crime and anti-social behaviour?

The best way to reduce incidents is to report it first to Police instead of posting it on social media, as this is also likely to alert the alleged offenders This can be done online 105 police govt nz, or if it’s actively happening, call 111 Police need relevant information to investigate crime, not presumptions or opinions

Spates of crimes are sometimes attributed to a small number of individuals within a communit y. Do some people have unrealistic expectations that they will be a victim?

I don’t believe that people should take crime in their community lightly If there are burglaries, theft from vehicles, or theft of vehicles reported, it would be common sense to lock your vehicle and protect your belongings

Anecdotally, from your experience and dialogue within Police, how do Ōmokoroa and Katikati compare for such crime to other similar-sized communities?

Ōmokoroa is a growing community due to new development and has changed dramatically in relation to the increase of residents from all backgrounds The reality is that there is no sure fix to anti-social behaviour I have worked in Te Puke, Tauranga and Tauranga South as a Youth Aid officer, and Ōmokoroa is not near the scale of youth offending I have dealt with in these areas In comparison with Katikati, it is about the same, just that Ōmokoroa has a bigger population and is a condensed

community, so it subsequently appears more active

Facebook seems to be where a lot of complaints are aired. How important is it that direct reporting to Police occurs to inform resource planning and operational taskings?

Unfortunately, the Ōmokoroa Facebook page has become a hub for some unwanted opinions and antisocial social media behaviour People need to be aware that airing their complaints on social media can also have an effect on the evidence process if Police need to investigate an offence or crime in their community

Comments by Sgt Steve Hindmarsh: There have been instances of people reporting a crime on the Facebook Community pages and sharing offending vehicle registrations or vehicle descriptions Police have subsequently been alerted to these posts and attempted to play catch up to verify the posts in order to carry out search warrants, only to find that all evidence has been disposed of That is because offenders and their associates also read social media, and this can warn them that they have been seen and it is likely that the Police will be following up on the sighting So while it can be positive to report suspicious activity, it can also have a negative effect if the information was good enough for the Police to act upon

If people have good specific information, then the first port of call should be the Police, not social media Ōmokoroa and the area south of there keep us very busy A surprising amount of apprehensions by way of arrest or summons come out of the area The public will not hear about a lot of these apprehensions, but we certainly give it our best to try and make the area safer

U3A Katikati

By Marjorie Squire

The speakers at our April meeting were of particular interest The first was Carole Parker representing the Abbeyfield Trust. Currently, this Trust has secured a section in the town and, as funds allow, plans to build a residence for 12 people who otherwise would be renting in often sub-standard accommodation

Abbeyfield has its origins in Great Britain and was brought to New Zealand by a Nelson GP concerned with the welfare of some of his elderly patients Each resident in an Abbeyfield home has individual accommodation, meals provided by a housekeeper and access to a communal area for socialisation There are currently 14 Abbeyfield homes in New Zealand

Our second speaker was the effervescent Stacey Roche, a former Katikati resident Stacey gave a vivid description of

living a full life with the challenges of cerebral palsy Sport has played an important role in Stacey’s family and, through the years, has been encouraged by her parents, teachers and coaches, culminating in New Zealand representation at world Boccia championships and a proud representative at the 2000 Sydney Paralympics Her employment with the Halberg Foundation meant Stacey could strongly advocate for all young people to participate in sporting activities, encouraging better access to facilities and removing the stigma of disability

Katikati U3A general meetings are on the second Wednesday of the month and are held at the Hub, adjacent to the Katikati Library, at 10am All are welcome to attend The entrance fee is $2 Special interest groups are also convened by U3A members Further information is available at www u3 atauranga kiwi nz

The winter solstice in Aotearoa is at 02:57 am Thursday, 22nd June, and occurs when the South Pole has its maximum tilt away from the sun

It is the day with the shortest period of daylight and the longest night of the year

Traditionally the winter solstice is celebrated to welcome the return of the sun and light.

Come and celebrate the winter solstice with us with a dip in the harbour on Sunday 25th June, at 12 30pm at Ōmokoroa

Domain Experience the satisfaction and confidence from acting with courage

Enjoy the after-swim buzz No charge or registration Just turn up Swim with whatever protection you

wish, wetsuits and swimming caps or just your togs Bring a towel to dry off quickly and warm clothes to change into when you emerge from the sea

If you ’ re not used to winter swimming, acclimatise to the water temperature and take a minute or two before putting your head under Don’t stay in too long and warm up gradually.

For more safety information online, visit www oceanswim co nz/5-tips-forcold-water-swimming/

Contact Russell on 021 153 0767 if you have any questions on this event or if you are interested in regular winter sea swimming

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The Solstice swim takes place at Ōmokoroa Domain PHOTO: Supplied

Register your dog and be in to win

It’s dog registration time, and this year there’s a chance for your dog to be in to win

All dog owners in the Western Bay who register their furry friend with us before Friday 30th June will be in to win free registration next year

You can register your dog online, or at one of our library and service centres and we’ll do the rest

Then you can rest easy for a year while your dog dons the latest accessory in doggy fashion, a fetching yellow registration tag

To register your dog, go online and have your tag delivered in four weeks (westernbay govt nz/dog-registration) or visit us in person and get a new tag on the spot - westernbay govt nz/servicecentres

Why is registration important

Council’s Animal Services Team leader Peter Hrstich says that like so many other things at the moment, dog registration fees have gone up And you might be wondering why it’s so important to register your dog every year

“Dog registration fees have gone up to cover the increased running costs of the services we provide It’s a sad inevitability in the world we ’ re living in right now But it’s important to remember that dog registration pays for a lot of crucial doggy services.

“For example, registering your dog could help to save its life In an emergency our team can use registration information to identify dogs may have been stranded in an evacuation and get them home to their owners ”

In the last year your registration

helped pay for these services: investigating over 1000 complaints; rehoming 29 dogs through our adoption programme; running two dog shelters, one in Te Puke and one Katikati; reuniting 190 dogs with their owners; kicking off development of our first dog exercise area at Lawrence Oliver Park in Te Puke; ensuring public safety by managing dangerous dogs; and running dog owner education initiatives and events like the Wander Dogs walks and Doggy Day Out

Microchipping is also important and

helps identify and reunite lost dogs, but it’s registration that pays for the important services that keep our community safe

For our kurī

This year we ’ re helping to share the mahi of our Animal Services team by running a special series of email newsletters called, ‘For our kurī’, just for dog owners

There will be dog training tip videos, dog treat recipes, featured dogs for adoption, behind the scenes articles with our animal shelter operators, microchip explainers, an update on the new dog exercise area coming to Lawrence Oliver Park in Te Puke and updates from precious pups who’ve gone on to find their furever homes

Subscribe online at westernbay govt nz/dog-newsletter

Registration information

All dogs should be registered under the Dog Control Act by the end of June each year

All information on fees and how they apply to different dogs (de-sexed, unneutered, dangerous, working and assistance dogs etc ) is available on Council’s website There is an increase to registration fees this year

Existing dog owners will receive their registration information in the mail or via email

Competition details

Each dog owner is limited to one entry, and the prize is free registration for a maximum of two dogs at the same address

Further terms and conditions are available at westernbay govt nz/dog-registration Article supplied

History: active, fascinating, vibrant

By Chris Wright

Yes, the Ōmokoroa History group is all of those things Active with visits, with changing displays in TOLO, with contributions to signage around the peninsula

Fascinating with the range of videos or guest speakers invited to the Sunday afternoon two-monthly meetings at TOLO and with its range of books available to be borrowed

And vibrant as new members continue to join the group, turning up to and contributing to discussions All are welcome at the history group meetings, with topics advertised closer to the time in Cyberlink and Ōmokoroa Facebook page Meetings conclude with a cuppa when talk flows after the video presentation or the guest speaker’s contribution to the afternoon

In April Roy Robinson described his over 20 years of weekend volunteer work at the Waiōuru Army Museum As an ex-mechanic, Roy helped restore everything and anything from bicycles to tanks and armoured personnel carriers These are repaired to going order, repainted and stored Roy showed photos to illustrate his talk and answered questions from the group who were most interested His wife Barbara sometimes accompanied him and contributed to the talk and answer session that followed

The speaker planned for June is Ted Mason whose parents bought a section on Ōmokoroa Road in 1951 Ted will talk

about their bach and his early memories of Ōmokoroa Date to be advised (11th or 18th June)

The ANZAC display at TOLO is always one that visitors find fascinating Last month there was a focus on World War One, with member Robin Hicks supplying a display case of WW1 wartime objects from weapons to a dentist’s bag

The History Group is indebted to Maureen and Norman Bruning for their research for what became the chapter on WW1 and WW2 Servicemen in the Ōmokoroa Farming Families book Requests for information were made to the NZ Army, Navy and Air Force and we are proud of the results Our records were greatly extended Details on each man ’ s period of service can be read about there

Other activities members of the local history group have been involved in recently are efforts to replace the signage at the Lynley Park reserve which had deteriorated over time and summarising the history of Nell’s Dell with a thought to erecting signage there, perhaps at each entry to that pathway

Copies of the two histories produced by the group: ‘Ōmokoroa’ and ‘Ōmokoroa Farming Families’ are still available for $45 at both TOLO and at the Ōmokoroa Pharmacy Or you can contact Chris Wright (548 0088), Don or Jo Cameron (5480 655) These books provide fascinating insights into life on this peninsula after 1870

College stages Moana Jr production

By Angela Macdonald

Based on the 2016 movie Moana, this special hour-long musical theatre production by Katikati College is guaranteed to delight and entertain all ages

This show will be the first that we have been able to open to our wider community for the first time in several years, due to Covid We are very excited to be having such a positive event

Starring Jasmine Tocher as Moana, Toa Tuatua’a as Young Moana, and Manse Uilou as Maui, the cast and crew of over

100 students covering all year levels from Year 7 to Year 13 and numerous staff has been in production for more than ten weeks

Themes of friendship, whanau/family, cultural traditions, and ecology weave through the narrative, while songs from the movie seamlessly link the drama, dance, and action Moana Jr is playing for a very limited season from 21st to 23rd June, 7pm to 8pm

We very much appreciate the support Lizard News is showing for Katikati College

Neville a Pointer X who is still up for adoption at Te Puke Animal Shelter models the new yellow dog tag Call 0800 926 732 to ask about adopting Neville PHOTO: Supplied

By John Collier Ōmokoroa Community Gardens

What an exciting autumn watching the colourful pageant of golden leaves and amber piles of rotting vegetation as the faithful squadrons of Monarchs fly by in joyful mockery of impending coolness

After the crowning glory (Charles beat Louis The XVI easily), it’s time to shout a loud thanks on the King’s Birthday to one of our most loyal supporters of the community gardens, the good folk at Kings Seeds who provide the starting magic for what promises to be another fabulous year in the Gardens After all that rain and gloomy cloud cover, we are moving into a new season, and our preparation starts in earnest

The beds have been topped up, weeds cleared, and a challenge laid down to the slugs and snails who hope to eat the best of our next generation of vegetables We still manage to thwart them with gravel, eggshells, and hand plucking

If anyone has a failsafe non-toxic snail solution, please come along on a volunteer morning and share it You will prob-

ably find us in the Polytunnel discussing which biscuit dunks longest, which quiche recipe works best without broad beans and debating what seeds we will sow next

Just as the Monarchs change and move on, we are also reviewing what flopped and what thrived this year My best were feijoas, basil, silver beet, butternuts and soybeans

The flops were tomatoes, potatoes and zucchini, which struggled with the gloom, damp and greyness of what laughingly passed for summer

Volunteers are welcome every Thursday and Saturday morning from 9-11am to chat, potter, forage, and swap ideas over warm drinks and biscuits And you get first pickings before the slugs

By Nigel Williams

The principal of Katikati College, Lou Buckley, was the guest speaker at Katikati Rotary on Monday 8th May Lou was born in Liverpool and attended eight different primary schools as her family moved around, including time in Trinidad and Oman

Before settling in Katikati, she and her husband lived at Waihī Beach and in Auckland

Lou acknowledged the club’s longstanding sponsorship of the annual $1500 scholarship awards to the College Head Boy and Head Girl and also the club’s support for the new horticulture

programme facility

She canvassed a number of pressing current issues facing the College, including the impact of social media on student achievement, a looming crisis in the teaching profession as the large cohort of older teachers retire in the near future, a dramatic national drop in student attendance as a direct long-term effect of the Covid pandemic, and the disastrous rise in vaping by students

While these are highly challenging issues, Lou stressed that there were also students achieving amazingly well as a result of the efforts of her professional and highly committed teaching staff.

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At the time, and to my dismay, I discovered that there were no skincare products available without these toxic chemicals The thought occurred that I m not a pharmacist for nothing, so I set out to formulate and create skincare products that were safe for my body and friendly to my hormones I gave some as gifts to friends and they were impressed and wanting to purchase some And voila my skincare range was born in New Zealand in 2017 and I’ll be sharing this with you

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My aim is to create, professionally produce and provide toxin-free, high-quality, handcrafted products from carefully selected organic natural ingredients (wherever possible) The purpose is to regenerate cellular processes, enabling our body s natural innate healing ability to restore balance and improve our health and beauty from the inside out – starting at a cellular level

My products are preservative-free, as most preservatives are hormone disruptors, with the cleanser and scrub as exceptions, as they contain an eco-preservative that does not disrupt hormones As a result I make a fresh batch at the end of each month Therefore I recommend a shelf life of about 30-60 days Some women have stretched it beyond that and while the products do not lose efficacy, ‘fingers going into pots’ does introduce a certain amount of contamination that cannot be prevented

Our products are bespoke and made to order, and we do not carry any additional stock We produce a fresh batch on the last Friday of each month (usually) and your parcel of happiness is sent out by courier or can be collected in Ōmokoroa

For more information contact us at yolinda@bdivine co nz

The Monarchs do their part to help the garden PHOTOS: Supplied

Bright vegetables amongst the first picks of volunteers

By Lulu Harding

Meg Gaddum is in exhibition in the Carlton Gallery Her beautiful, contemporary exhibition, ‘Colour Speaks’ opened its doors on Monday 22nd May, and will close on Sunday 18th

June

Meg grew up living on a wild, remote farm near Gisborne, and dancing, exploring, riding and having a multitude of pets were her life She grew to love drawing and painting, influenced by her aunts and uncle, who frequently painted en plein air combined with picnics They often came for afternoon tea to share their work when Meg was home from school

One day Meg’s aunt gave her, aged 10, a large flat box of 30 French oil pastels So juicy with intense colour, the memory of using them is precious to her She realised later how expensive they would have been and probably not bought with Meg in mind

School science subjects called her away, leading to studying agricultural science, then work, career, farming and family

While completing a master’s in landscape architecture some years ago, design work on paper reminded Meg of her early love of making art, and she made a

date with herself to become an artist

Now free to do so, Meg has been studying colour, shape and mark-making and practising her art while living on five acres on the very edge of Ōhiwa Harbour Meg is a member of the Ōpōtiki Art Society and the Tauranga Society of Artists and has been exhibiting with group shows for some years

In 2022 Meg exhibited in a group show in Rotorua, participated in the MAGS show, and was a Finalist in the Tauranga Garden and Art Festival’s Emerging Artist Award Meg sells works from her studio regularly at 40 Ōhiwa Loop Road, Ōhiwa Harbour, Ōpōtiki You can find more information at www meggaddum com

Don’t miss this colourful spectacular Come and view this beautiful display at the Carlton Gallery, The Arts Junction, 36 Main Road, Katikati 3129 Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm Saturday, Sunday and public holidays, 10am to 2pm

$2.5 million TECT grant to support forest restoration work

The Kaimai Mamaku Ranges are a taonga to Aotearoa But the Kaimai Mamaku forests and catchments are not thriving Our precious natural infrastructure is under threat

Working to restore the mauri of the ngahere/forest is the Manaaki Kaimai Mamaku Trust (MKMT)

A proudly co-governed organisation, MKMT brings together iwi-hapū, agencies, and stakeholders to improve the health of the Kaimai Mamaku for present and future generations

Whakamārama Hall regular events

Library

Thursdays 9am – noon (during term), and every third Friday 68 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

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

In 2022, the Department of Conservation delegated authority to MKMT to deliver the Kaimai Mamaku Restoration Project, which currently consists of 12 iwi-hapū-led restoration sub-projects funded by the Government’s Mahi o te Taiao/Jobs for Nature programme

Local community trust, TECT, has recently approved a substantial $2 5M worth of funding to support the expansion of four Kaimai Mamaku Restoration Projects in the TECT district

“TECT is committed to investing in the protection and regeneration of our region’s natural environment and biodiversity,” says TECT Chairperson Bill Holland “The need for resilient solutions to biodiversity loss and climate change is urgent and requires collective action

Holland adds, “Significant cultural and social outcomes include re-engagement of iwi-hapū with the land and increased community understanding of the essential role the Kaimai Mamaku ecosystems play in community wellbeing and economic prosperity

“We applaud the enabling work of MKMT and all the iwi and hapū-led projects to restore the whenua, which will ensure a long-standing legacy of conservation and connection in the Kaimai Mamaku ”

The Kaimai Mamaku extends ki uta ki

tai/from mountains to sea and is home to a diverse and unique range of ecosystems However, this significant area is struggling

Louise Saunders, CEO of Manaaki Kaimai Mamaku Trust, says, “TECT’s Catalyst for Change funding will have a monumental impact on people, our forests and our future By supporting sustainable, conservation-based employment alongside the community volunteer groups, this funding will contribute to transformational change ”

Four sub-projects receiving TECT funding are:

• Ngā Mata Hiringa: This project is led by Ngamanawa Incorporation, a collaboration between Ngāti Ranginui, Ngāti Hangarau, and Raukawa The project includes wilding pine control and pest animal control in 580ha of forest at Omanawa and Opuiaki to support taonga species, including kōkako

• Te Maire: Led by Ngāi Tamawhariua, this project includes pest animal control in 900-1,000ha of forest at Aongatete, beside Aongatete Forest Project The combined area of both will create a significant core habitat for threatened species

• Ōtawa Waitaha a Hei: Led by Te Kapu o Waitaha, this project includes pest animal control in 400ha at Ōtawa Scenic Reserve and contributes to an increase in pest control across a key habitat area for Hochstetters Frogs and other taonga species

• Te Wao Nui o Tapuika: This project is led by Tapuika and includes pest animal control in 500ha of Te Mataī Forest, a key part of the Kōkako Ecosystem Expansion Project area (KEEP) KEEP is a collective of stakeholders establishing an ecological corridor to expand the habitat of kōkako

Ngā Mata Hiringa project led by Ngamanawa

Part of the Colour Speaks exhibition by Meg Gaddum IMAGES: Supplied

Te Maire project led by Ngai Tamawhariua

Focus on Katikati

By Fiona Powell, Katch Katikati

June is all about community, with opportunities to support and learn about our wonderful community organisations and to have a say about what matters most in our community

Kati Chat

The bi-monthly Kati Chat is an opportunity to discover more about the huge variety of community groups and organisations within our town that cater to any interest Come along to The Arts Junction on Wednesday 7th June at 10am and enjoy a home-baked morning tea and learn more about the Adopt a Street Programme that’s endeavouring to keep Katikati free of litter and hear from Poutama Pathways into Employment, our local Toastmasters group and Project Parore, an environmental conservation organisation

questions you have about volunteering with them There’s a volunteer role to suit everyone, from service to retail to environmental, for all skill and experience levels and your help will be very much valued

Support our Avo Town

Katikati is acknowledged as the ‘ avocado capital’ of New Zealand – and you can be a proud supporter by making a donation toward the installation of a giant avocado sculpture and avo-inspired seating around the township All supporters receive a unique and collectable badge to show off Head over to katikati org nz or call into the Arts Junction to make a donation

Give your feedback

What do you believe are the key issues facing our Katikati Community? What actions from the community plan do you think could be prioritised? Katch Katikati is inviting and collating feedback as part of Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s ‘Your Place’ community engagement Your feedback can help shape their planning processes and priorities – plus, your feedback goes in the draw to win one of ten $100 Countdown Vouchers Call into The Arts Junction and submit your feedback

Award-winning talent in town

By Paul England

Original contemporary folk and roots music with distinctive harmonies, intricate guitar and double bass

Give back to our community

If you have a bit of spare time on your hands and want to give back to our community, check out the Katikati Volunteer Expo on Tuesday 13th June from 5 30-7 30pm at The Arts Junction Our community organisations will be on hand to answer any

Exquisitely crafted songs, glorious harmonies and a captivating stage presence will leave Sadie & Jay indelibly echoing in your musical memory With multiple awards and accolades over three original albums, this rare pairing of musical soulmates will take you on exciting journeys, tell intriguing tales and stir emotions

Sadie and Jay – both multi-instrumentalists – create a perfect soundscape for the passionate and intelligent songwriting that defines their music From lively rag-time blues and comical ditties to compelling epic tales and ballads, you’ll be drawn into their creative world and be invigorated by the experience

Formerly Brisbane-based, Sadie & Jay now live in the Waikato and have taken their distinctive sound throughout Australia, the UK and New Zealand, and their music streams on international folk and

roots playlists around the world

Sadie & Jay will be appearing at Katikati Folk Club on Friday 9th June Katikati Folk Club doors open at 7pm for a 7 30pm concert start Come early and get a good seat

Remember, members pay only $20 and casuals pay $25 We accept Eftpos, cash, or book through the website

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

Sadie & Jay perform at Katikati Folk Club on 9th June PHOTO: Supplied

Learning in the wild

By Cat Thompson Kaiako

For the past couple of months, the older tamariki at Te Puna Kindergarten have visited and re-visited the wilderness of Te Puna Quarry Park, exploring, wondering and adventuring Going back to the same natural, unspoiled space has opened up a myriad of meaningful opportunities for our tamariki to test thrilling and bold ideas, build physical and emotional resilience and slow down to contemplate, daydream and ‘just’ be This initiative comes in response to our own research into the best ways of supporting children to deepen their connections

A toddler’s day

By Louise Roberts

Our newest one-year-old has a great routine which Mum and Dad worked hard to achieve prior to them starting their journey in the small ECE setting at Minnows Kindergarten This included a transitional period by Dad, so the child could experience their new environment and teachers before her official start They arrive at Minnows Kindergarten at 8am, ready for the day During their time at Minnows, the routine of eat, play and sleep continues, and they love exploring the environment

They are encouraged to explore, investigate and express themselves during their play They are keen to learn and are given many opportunities to empower their learning in everyday activities - which fosters independence, self-esteem, motivation and selfreliance All this gives the child a sense of importance and belonging, essential for building social relationships and for contributing to the world

Our toddler is happy and content in their environment and enjoys the stimulation of the other children playing around them Noise levels are low due to Minnows being a small centre The children enjoy plenty of one-toone time with our teachers without this conflicting time spent with other children They get plenty of time with all the teachers, so they can build strong relationships with them

Body Treatments

Inclusiveness is important to us at Minnows, so they are included in all our activities - including spontaneous ones like volcanoes in the sandpit and gloopy fingerpaint Minnows Kindergarten is located at 3 Margaret Drive, right next to Cooney Reserve We have a small licence for just 27 children with high teacher-to-student ratios Pop in for a visit anytime or call us on 07 548 1611/ 021 142 2423 or visit www minnows kindergarten co nz

with nature and, ultimately, themselves In the wise words of Gary Snyder, “Nature is not a place to visit; it is home ”

Our role as expert companions was to allow the space, time and freedom for them to make their own discoveries, pursue their own plans and act on their own ideas

The results have been truly magical

Building rock walls and dams together, scientifically investigating the best leaf boat designs, ‘speaking’ to fungi and theorising out loud about birds and plants are only some of the moments experienced

It really goes to show that we can learn anything when there is nothing but nature because “play is in the child, not the toy ”

Ōmokoroa Point School

By Sandra Portegys Principal

ers looked like they had the most fun

Ngā mihi nui whānau

Our thoughts are with the Nicholas whānau and Pirirākau hāpu after the passing of Patrick Nicholas last month Patrick was influential in many areas He was known as an historian and, in more recent years, a poet Mrs Carter and I attended the tangi at Tawhitinui Marae, representing Ōmokoroa Point School

Recently, our Board of Trustees informed the community of a casual vacancy on the board We did not receive 10 per cent or more of eligible voters requesting an election; therefore, the BoT has filled the vacancy Karen Aspey is a previous member of our board, and she brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this role

Our first ever ŌPS Colour Run has been held We had fun, despite the weather Thank you to the PTA, who did an amazing job planning and running the event Thank you to our sponsors for supporting us. A huge thank you to our students, family, whānau and community for getting behind us We hope you all enjoyed the water bomb battle The teach-

Over the term break, different building and maintenance projects were started You will have noticed the resealing of the front carpark We are really pleased with how this has come up We have redesigned the carparks to provide a safer parking space for our accessible carpark Railings in front of the gateway will redirect foot traffic from walking straight into the carpark in front of traffic

We kindly request that parents and guardians refrain from parking on yellow lines and across driveways, as this can cause safety hazards and inconvenience to our neighbours Each day, staff put cones out on the road to indicate places where parking puts others at risk Please respect this by not parking in these areas We understand that parking can be a challenge, especially during drop-off and pick-up times However, we kindly request that you take a few extra minutes to find a suitable parking spot rather than risking the safety of our students We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a safe and welcoming environment for our students

There are high teacher-to-student ratios PHOTO: Supplied

Getting out in nature to learn PHOTO: Supplied

Ōmokoroa sailing

By John Budden

Sunday 14th May being Mother’s

Day turned out to be fine and almost warm after a cool wet spell

As usual, the weather report was a bit adrift, but four yachts and crews lined up for the start. They were Diversion, Against All Odds, Goldie and stately Kōnini With a tide high at 3 50 ish, we decided to sail around Motuhoa for the wind It was supposed to be southwesterly

There was none when we started just after 11 00, and the tide was pushing us up harbour

There was activity on Goldie and Diversion as they prepared to hoist kites, whilst AAO and Kōnini relied on plain sail plans

With a westerly breeze that turned to the north, we were off at a snail’s pace

Even the huge red kite on Diversion (replacing the normal blue and white) sagged

Then the breeze filled in from the north and on Kōnini, up went the kite We all drifted down to Rangiwaea where the leaders headed to the port (left) side of the channel. Kōnini received a great lift and was leading just before the turn to Te Puna

Then the breeze filled in and we were heading up tide at a reasonable rate

Many tacks later, we turned Motuhoa for the finish

Diversion and AAO had a great tussle to the finish with only ten seconds the margin Goldie was third a minute later Stately Kōnini finished fourth after a great beat home

Well done, all Great sail to start the winter series Thanks, Brendan, Lucy and Rebecca for the sail

Ōmokoroa Community Tennis Club

PHOTO: Supplied

By Sharon Parker

Despite the relentlessly wet weather leading to many cancellations and postponements, we have been pretty active at OCTC over the first few months of 2023

We co-hosted our third annual tournament with Te Puna on 11th-12th March Saturday matches were played at Ōmokoroa and Sunday at Te Puna The men ’ s doubles was won by Ōmokoroa’s own Andrew Easton and Hielke Renkema, and the women ’ s doubles by Alison Graham of Ōtūmoetai and Urishka Singh of Mt Maunganui Unfortunately, this may be the last time Te Puna can host for a while, as their clubrooms at Māramatanga Park have been condemned and are soon to be demolished

On a brighter note, a big shout out and thank you to our primary sponsor SB Electrical, and to our other sponsors, Bethlehem Butchery, The White House Restaurant, and Fresh Choice.

Our ladies’ midweek interclub team won their division two competition at the beginning of this year

Our annual Club Champs are part way through – men ’ s and women ’ s doubles were played on 2nd April Andrew Easton and Hielke Renkema won the men ’ s division, while Olivia Desset and Sharon Parker took out the women ’ s We are hoping that the weather will permit our other upcoming championship competitions to be finished before the end of June

Over the past few weeks, we have been trialling a more ‘competitive’ format on our Wednesday club nights Reports are that the competitive players are relishing the consistently strong competition We have recently commenced fortnightly competitive tennis with Waihī Beach Tennis Club All of the participants from both clubs are enjoying this immensely

And finally - at the time of writing, our honours boards are being erected in the pavilion social space It has been a long, slow journey, but we hope that they will soon be followed by honours boards from other regular users of our amazing pavilion facility

Against All Odds taken from Goldie

PHOTO: Val Little

Olivia Desset and Annemiek McGregor of Ōmokoroa – women ’ s doubles special plate winners

Ōmokoroa table tennis club

Table Tennis is a fun, friendly game for anybody It’s a sport that combines fitness, competition as well

as lots of entertainment It’s also a sport that is played indoors, so it doesn’t matter what the weather is doing outside

Table Tennis in the Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall began in 2015 when a table tennis enthusiast gave a group of his friends a table tennis table The friends soon outgrew the garage they were playing in and decided they would “have a try” to see how they would go in the Hall weekly

As time went on, more people joined in and, thanks to donations received from The Centre, the Table Tennis Club now has three tables and has become a regular Monday feature from 7 until 8 30pm at the small hall Numbers vary, but there are always enough people who turn up for their weekly ‘table tennis fix’ to get at least two tables out for some fun, competitive games New attendees always receive a warm welcome Don’t worry if you don’t have any gear, as the club provides all you need (including the opportunity for post-match socialising with other members) You will need to make sure you are dressed for a

Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall

By Ellen Haynes

As we start to sink into our winter months, it’s time to have a look at our warmer clothes as well as make sure our gutters are clear, our heaters and/or fireplaces are in good working order along with all the other tasks that need to get done leading up to the next two or three months

Thanks to Shane McIntyre (a local contractor), the Hall’s gutters have had a clean out; the roof nails sticking up and rusty ones replaced; extra drainage holes drilled in the gutter pipes and the

outside cobwebs cleared away This will help keep the Halls dry in the rain we have had, and no doubt will continue to have over the coming few months Thanks also to our community for their continuing support of the Settlers’ Hall We have over 1,000 people coming into the Halls every month for a unique range of activities, including arts and crafts (Creative Fibre, Ōmokoroa Artists and Patchwork Quilting); The Ōmokoroa Lions and Probus Clubs meet every month along with our well-patronised Ōmokoroa Market happening on the last

Saturday of the month Some of our most popular weekly exercise groups include Yoga, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, Line Dancing, Pilates, Fitness, Keep On Your Feet, Indoor Bowls, Table Tennis and the Ōmokoroa Songsters

As well as the above, the Hall walls have seen many events such as weddings, memorial services, parties, school groups, and baby showers, along with specific group functions, community talks, etc

We do need to mention that the Hall has a fully equipped kitchen with ample

good workout and wear proper exercise footwear

The Ōmokoroa club sessions include singles, doubles, as well as mixed doubles

As with participating in any sporting activities, there are (apart from helping you to burn calories) other health benefits, including improving your brain health, helping to manage your weight, strengthening your bones and muscles, improving your ability to do everyday activities and preventing falls You will increase your energy and improve your overall mental health by interacting with others

If you would like to take up table tennis or return to playing, or would just like to be part of a fun (but competitive) social group, come along and join us at the Settlers’ Hall on Mondays from 7pm until 8 30pm The cost is $5 per session

Article supplied

crockery, cutlery and glassware to cater to over 100 people, along with tables and chairs, plus a PA system for speeches, announcements as well as music And the Hall will be celebrating its centenary in the not-too-distant future

Please check out our OSH Website (www settlershall co nz), notice boards or Facebook page to find out more information about any of the Hall activities scheduled or an activity you could be interested in joining

For Hall Booking enquiries, email: settlers hall@gmail com

• Solar power, with MPPT controllers, house batteries etc

• Charging systems from 230V power and vehicle alternator

• Low current consumption L E D lighting

• Electric steps, reversing cameras, sine wave inverters

• Satellite television systems for free-to-air and Sky

• Tank level monitors, gas detectors

• Roof vents, locker doors, awnings

• Modifying layout, cupboards, drawers and benches

Council plans to more than double Heron Crescent elder housing units

All going to plan, a total of 26 units, fully accessible and custom designed for people aged 65 years and over, will be built at Heron Crescent in Katikati

Western Bay of Plenty District Councillors endorsed initial plans that include three two-storey blocks of units with different layouts to suit older single people and couples

The tentative 26-unit development will see 15 new units in addition to replacing the 11 existing 40-year-old units that were recently removed

This early stamp of approval from Council is an important step towards the final design and gives the Council team the green light to press on with existing funding applications and a resource consent application Councillors will have the final say on the contract for the build, to be signed off prior to work beginning in February 2024 at the earliest

The initial concept design includes one block of ten units of two-storeys with five units on each floor; a block of 12 units, two-storey, six units on each floor; and a block of four, two-storey two-bedroom townhouses.

Council CEO John Holyoake says by upscaling, Council is seizing a special opportunity to do more for the community, ensuring as much value out of the land as possible

“The elder housing village site on Heron Crescent is a prime location A quarter hectare of medium-density residential zoned land in a fantastic location close to town and the lovely Diggelmann

Park It’s an ideal central spot for our older people who need easy access to services

“We want to make the most of the site and help as many people as we can into warm, modern, affordable accommodation ”

The final number of units will depend on the Council being successful in the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development’s (MHUD) Affordable Housing Fund when it’s announced in September 2023

MHUD’s Affordable Housing Fund is only available for affordable rental accommodation, where a minimum of ten dwellings are to be provided Social housing isn’t eligible Council plans fit the criteria well; to provide affordable rental accommodation for people aged 65 years

and over with limited financial means

If the application isn’t successful, the design and resource consent will be var-

ied as needed to fit the existing budget Costs will not be passed on to ratepayers Council has also allocated $4 6 million of Better Off Funding to support this project so that the development goes ahead in some shape, no matter the Affordable Housing Fund outcome

John says, “We’ve got our fingers crossed on the funding front While we wait to hear, we have a lot of work to do on the detailed design, so we ’ re ready to apply for building consent and appoint a building contractor when the time comes

“We’ll be working closely with existing tenants on this project We want their input on what works well now, and what they’d like to see in a new development

The most important thing is that the final design works for the people who’ll be calling these new units home ”

See westernbay govt nz/community/ elder-housing Article supplied

Statistics on Katikati’s population and housing needs

• Katikati has the most people over 70 years old of all the towns in the Western Bay, according to Stats NZ’s population estimations

• The ‘seniors’ age bracket (70-84 years) makes up 25 percent of the population, with a further five percent of the population over the age of 85

• Around 64% of households in Katikati are either ‘couple-only’ or ‘single person ’ households 58% of households have an annual income of less than $50,000

• Current housing stock in Katikati is ‘mismatched’ to household type and also to needs 19% of the total housing stock is one or two bedroom dwellings Of the new dwellings consented since July 2018, around 85% have been three or four bedroom homes

• Through the Long Term Plan 2021-31, the Western Bay community opted to retain and redevelop elder housing stock, with 88% of feedback in support

Council planned a Heron Crescent elder housing redevelopment kōrero at Diggelmann Park next to the redevelopment site on Tuesday 30th May, from 12pm to 2pm Councillors and Council staff were to show draft concept plans and timelines

Scottish Country Dancing in Ōmokoroa

By Linda Carter

New to Ōmokoroa or the surrounding area and want to make new friends?

Scottish Country Dancing has proven to be so popular in Katikati, Tauranga, Mount Maunganui, and elsewhere in the Bay of Plenty and Waikato that we are considering starting a group in the Ōmokoroa Settlers Hall

Scottish Country Dancing is social and physical fun, good for the mind and the body Young, old and anyone in between can discover

the benefits and enjoyment to be had from an afternoon or evening of dance with like-minded friends

Scottish Country Dancing is based on having fun dancing to Scottish music, and you can come on your own No partner is needed, and full instruction is given

If you are interested or would like further information, please call Linda on 021 259 8770

If you are not in Ōmokoroa, you can find a list of clubs in your local area at https://waibopscd org nz/ directory-club/

Waihī Beach Menz Shed

By Bob Firth Secretary

The new Trustees have had their first meeting and elected Brian Baynes as Chairman Thanks for taking on the Chair again, Brian I wish you good luck in the future

The AGM has been set down for Friday 26th, at 10am Among other things, we will be electing a committee for the coming year If you would like to step up and be part of the running of the shed, please come forward

We are looking for nominations for a new Treasurer as Tom is standing down I acknowledge the fantastic support we have received from Tom From the beginning, he has dealt with the setup of the Menz Shed and filled out untold forms, returns, and registrations to get things going Then continued with paying accounts, GST, charity returns, and financial position reports, as well as giving me 100 per cent support for all the funding applications I submitted Thank you, Tom, for being a great team player Good luck with your second retirement Trustees have agreed that subs will remain at $30 for this coming financial year and are now due Please pay Tom or put your subs in an envelope, or pay into our ANZ bank account, 06 0473 0447945 00, ensuring you put your name on there somewhere

Just a reminder that you cannot use any machinery or equipment unless you have been inducted Please check your status A list will be on the notice board shortly Ask Keith to induct you or if you need help

The shed is open on Tuesdays and Fridays If you have a project, bird feeder, grandkids’ toys or whatever and need help, there will be folk there willing keen and able to guide you There is a library of woodwork magazines with projects and ideas to browse for inspiration, and we have a container full of timber if you haven’t any.

As you may know, I have been holidaying in Noosa Thanks to our member Ian Stevens who lives at Noosa in the winter, he organised an official tour by the President of the Noosa Menz Shed

What I saw was amazing I have taken some notes so I can talk about it when I get home They have sheds for carpentry, engineering, radio, IT and computers, bees and honey production, aquaponics, hydroponics, a paint shop, hobby and craft, a huge garden with plants for sale, paintings and artists, a large worm farm, and leather production

They have 420 members and approx 60 shedders on a regular basis We were invited to morning tea and presented with a jar of Menz Shed honey each It’s well worth a visit if you are in the area

Meanwhile, volunteers are required to help with the upcoming trapping of Bowentown This project and training on the handling of the completed traps will be undertaken soon Contact Phil Bowyer 022 474 1950

Scottish Country Dancing is good for the mind and body and accessible to all ages

PHOTO: Supplied

The boys delivering traps to start the pest eradication with Predator Free Bowentown Well done; our first major job, and we are helping the community PHOTO: Supplied

Delivering sport and recreation opportunities for tamariki

Regular and enjoyable physical activity benefits everyone It contributes significantly to our health and well-being and should be a part of daily life for all tamariki and rangatahi

The Western Bay of Plenty Principals Association (WBOPPA) understands the importance of children moving now for lifelong benefits

A formal membership group made up of 63 Western Bay principals, the WBOPPA acts to sanction events on behalf of Western Bay of Plenty primary and intermediate schools This enables quality inter-school sport and recreation experiences to be delivered to Year 0-8 students during school time

Overseeing and delivering the events on the WBOP School Sports calendar is Sarah Hull, recently employed by WBOPPA as a full-time Sports Director

“This role is essential in order to make the primary school sporting calendar possible,” says Sarah “A huge number of sports rely on volunteers already, so without this role, the responsibility of organising the events would fall on teachers and parents, which wouldn’t be sustainable ”

The 45 events on the 2023 calendar are predominately active recreation-based activities (i e , noncompetitive, participation-style events) with some traditional sport and play opportunities

Approximately 12,000 participants were reached in 2022, with numbers expected to increase this year.

Changes were made to the events in 2022 to enable schools to bring multiple teams to events and include more sporting codes, such as hockey, netball, football, touch rugby and mountain biking Further activities and options were also added to make events more accessible to students with disabilities

Sarah says she is “really enjoying” her new role and seeing the many benefits the inter-school opportunities deliver

“It is awesome that we have the ability to provide

tamariki across the Western Bay of Plenty with quality opportunities to compete in a wide range of sports events focused on both participation and development

When children have the chance to participate in interschool competitions, it has a massive benefit on their overall hauora Seeing how much they enjoy getting out and about, is why I love this job

“We are looking to add new events to the calendar, such as Ki-o-Rahi and Waka Ama, as well as grow our current events, which is awesome!” Article supplied

Ōmokoroa Business Network

By Kristine Aitchison

Ōmokoroa is growing, and so is the Ōmokoroa Business Network (OBN) - join us The fortnightly networking catch-up has seen an impressive increase in attendees, with many new and interesting businesses joining the community

The OBN group meets regularly to talk about local business issues, share information, and provide each other with advice and support Anyone in business in Ōmokoroa is welcome to come along It’s a great way to get referrals and build

your business relationships

The OBN website has long needed some TLC, and the committee is now in the process of updating this directory If you ’ re in business in Ōmokoroa and would like to be featured on the OBN website, or receive the latest news and updates from the Ōmokoroa business community email omokoroabusinessnetwork@gmail com

The OBN group meets on the second and fourth Thursday of every month at The Ōmokoroa Boat Club The next meeting is Thursday 8th June at 9am See you there

Surfer chicks at the competition PHOTOS: Supplied

Business network meeting in May

PHOTO: Supplied

Surf groms at the WBOP Primary School Surfing Competition at Waihī Beach

Quick cr osswor d

Sudoku Wor d t

How many words of three or more letters, including plurals, can you make, using each letter only once? No words beginning with a capital are allowed

Ōmokoroa No. 1 School

By Sue Morgan-French

We ’ ve had puppet fever in the junior school with a recent visit from Dan the Puppet Man

He taught us about puppets, showed us some of his own and helped each class to make

their own individual puppets What a range there was

It is wonderful seeing the children use their imaginations and creating their own puppets

They range from fluffy to four-legged to very simple, one-eyed, two-eyed and some even four-eyed! Before going home, these are being used in the classroom for storytelling and shows in class It is a bit of a challenge for the children as they would just love to take them straight home So much learning can result from these simple objects

The funding for Dan came from cake stalls run by the junior classes We are so lucky to have such a supportive community backing initiatives such as this

One of our Year 7 and 8 teams won the Bay of Plenty Kids Lit Quiz competition

Congratulations to Bella, Danika, Seth and Gem

“This is the first time Ōmokoroa No 1 School has won this event The team won $1,000 towards travel to Wellington to compete at the national Kids LitQuiz in June. We are very proud of their achievement and will be putting together a literacy school fundraising event to support our students’ amazing learning experience, ” says principal Craig Pentecost

Special thanks go to Mr Mac for training the teams for the event

Pahoia School

By Juanita Meder

This term, we are learning about transformation, with a focus on how raw materials become the products we wear and have in our homes. We are connecting to our local community and finding out about the resources that come from our local area

When bad weather meant the cancellation of Waipapa pod’s trip to a local farm to meet some sheep, lovely farmer Maree Morton came to us She brought lamb and sheep fleece for us to touch and talked about how a sheep’s fleece transforms into items like jumpers

We also had a visit from Bex Tasker and her colleagues, who brought four woolly friends with them: three large Valais sheep named Barnaby, Gus and Dougal, as well as Keko, who is a sheep breed known as Babydoll The children enjoyed watching these friendly sheep interact with their handlers, as well as feeling their woolly coats

PLUMBER

Omokoroa local area only

Maintenance and small jobs

Phone Jason 021 241 9843

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Pedicure care

20% off first appointment

Irene: 020 4113 4425 www massagetherapyirene com

Just Cats

Boarding Cattery

482 Esdaile Road, Pahoia

Single rooms, no sharing, just $18 50 per day

Ph 577 1993 or 027 233 2643

OMOKOROA

Homes, gardens, lawns, car valets

Glass,tile shower rejuvenation Water blasting, painting All enquires welcome Ph Ludi & Andrea 548 2657 | 021 070 0021

Katikati RSA (Inc)

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2023 Will be held on Sunday 18 June 2023 at Club Katikati, RSA Building, commencing 4 00 pm Business

• Minutes of the 2022 AGM President’s report Poppy Trust report

Election of officers

• Presentation of RSA Financial Statements

• Notices of Motion (if any)

Followed by Q & A Session

Note: Nominations for Committee positions and Notices of Motion to be emailed to: katikatirsa@xtra co nz no later than Friday 9 June 2023

The visitors didn’t stop there We were also lucky to have a visit from authors Ben Brown and Toby Morris, who told us about their journeys in the fields of writing and illustration

We learned a lot from Ruben the Road Safety Bear, when he came to tell us about keeping safe around roads

Our senior students took part in the Kids Can Ride Programme delivered by the Tauranga City Council’s Road Safe Team, riding alongside them and learning about bike safety

Thank you to Maree, Bex and friends, Ben, Toby, Ruben, and the Road Safe Team for visiting us and sharing your knowledge

KGN Gardening for all your gardening, lawns, hedges and trees

Give us a call/text

Justices

Mon 11-1 Waihī Library

Tue 11-12 Waihī Beach Library Thu 10-12 Ōmokoroa Library

Fri 10-12 Bethlehem Community Church

Fri 10-12 Katikati Community Centre

Senior students learning about

safety PHOTOS: Supplied

Bay of Plenty Kids Lit Quiz champions PHOTOS: Supplied

Dan the Puppet Man helps students to make their own puppets

Meeting sheep friends