Lizard News March 2020

Lizard News MARCH 2020

FREE LOCAL NEWS... IN THE COMMUNITY

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

Concrete columns under construction at the new pavilion in late January. It's hoped the concert will raise funds for furniture, appliances and decor. PHOTO: Sophie Mackie.

Ready for Night Fever?

We will rock you! his month, the Ōmokoroa Sport & Recreation Society Community Concert is being held to raise funds for the new Sports Pavilion which is currently under construction. While there are sufficient funds to complete construction, further funds are required to fit it out with appliances, blinds, etc.

Last year the Fleetwood Mac concert was a great success and $18,000 was raised towards the pavilion project.

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The headline act at the 7th March event is Coupe de Ville, who do a cover of Queen and the Bee Gees, which will make for a great evening in Ōmokoroa. They will be supported by the two local high school bands, Ignite from Tauranga Boys’ College and Birdhouse from Ōtūmoetai College, who will go head-to-head in a mini-battle of the bands.

Want to upgrade your concert experience? There is a corporate area planned with covered seating, fully

catered and will include drink vouchers.

This area will have tables to cater for 10 people at a cost of $1200. What a great option for family groups, staff or your key suppliers. If you have any questions and would like to lock a table in, please make contact with Dennis Cresswell by calling or texting 021 611 987, or email dennis@wattsgroup.co.nz to secure a spot.

General tickets are available online at eventfinda.co.nz Search ‘Queen’.

Article supplied.

MCELWAINS AUCTIONS ARE NOW IN KATIKATI TO SERVICE THE BAY OF PLENTY AREA Auctioning Estate lots, Police auctions, collectables, antiques, liquidations as well as new and used furniture.

Come in and visit us at 3 Wharawhara Road, Katikati.

Katikati Auctions - in house and live online.

Check Facebook and Website for auction dates.

Hamilton Auctions still on Saturdays 65 Killarney Road, Hamilton.

Buying or Selling quality new and used items - we are here to help you. www.facebook.com/mcelwainsauctions/ • www.mcelwainsauctions.co.nz • auctions@mcelwainsauctions.co.nz • 07 838 2113

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well as sediment run-off, blocked stream and flooding.

FREE LOCAL NEWS... IN THE COMMUNITY

the Letters to

NEWS & ADVERTISING

Editor

07 548 1200 027 549 5410 matthew@lizardnews.net www.lizardnews.net

Growing prosperity

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We welcome your feedback and letters to the editor. We strive for accuracy, fairness and balance in reporting news of public interest. We request that contributors assist us in upholding standards of decency and privacy avoiding discrimination and defamation.

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tatistic New Zealand’s latest economic report is a timely reminder of the value this Coalition Government brings to everyday New Zealanders.

The policies of this Government have meant a new and more inclusive course with strong economic management and a strong commitment to investing in people.

It is no coincidence average household disposable incomes rose 4.9% in 2019, the highest rise in four years. We have a record 4% unemployment; continued wage increases and steady economic growth - all during the tenure of the NZ First-Labour Coalition.

It is important the public are told of these important achievements rather than muckraking and innuendo we see from some.

The Provincial Growth Fund for example, the brainchild of NZ First, is nearly at the conclusion of having committed $3 billion worth of desperately needed investment to spur economic growth in our regions.

Only by having NZ First in government have the scale of these combined investments been possible. We understand provincial New Zealand, the regions, the need for development, productive growth, and sustainability.

Simon Bridges’ newly-released unoriginal economic plan is error-ridden and a weak attempt at suggesting they have a plan. Clearly, they do not. New Zealand First will continue to work hard on this Government’s plan to grow our country’s prosperity.

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The application is temporarily on hold, but not declined. If you want to influence the decision, please contact BoP Regional Council and tell them your concerns. You may also want to contact Western Bay of Plenty District Council.

For further info please email TePunaNoDumpSite@gmail.com

t was with great pleasure that at our last working bee, we managed to discover and free a beautiful, three metre high pūriri tree that was completely covered with morning glory vine and sure to have suffered imminent death. Thankfully, our workers cut back the vines and released the pūriri and other trees to live another day.

Over the past year we have got on top of the tobacco weed, and only occasionally find a tree now. Great work, team.

More help is needed this month on 9th March, 9am to 12pm in Cooney Reserve, to release more trees. Call 548 2299.

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Jan Mayston, Omokoroa.

Elly Nederhoff, Te Puna.

Roving reporter witnesses drama

Neighbourhood Support

ur latest news is that your Community Constable, Paul Wrigley, who many of you will know, has left to take another role within the Police. I would like to thank Paul for his commitment and dedication to helping Neighbourhood Support in the Ōmokoroa community.

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Paul has worked tirelessly, and often unnoticed, to help make Ōmokoroa one of the safest places to live, and I am grateful for all the assistance he has provided your Neighbourhood Support team.

Bruce Banks, Manager WBoP Neighbourhood Support

ocal hero Lawrence Daly is being hailed for preventing a serious incident, when his prompt action led to the rescue of an umbrella blown offshore by a freak gust of wind at Ōmokoroa beachfront during anniversary holiday weekend, Saturday 25th January.

“I didn’t have time to think,” said Lawrence, “but I knew the loss of a beach umbrella could lead to all sorts of skin problems later on. I just did what anybody would do if they saw an umbrella scudding across the harbour.”

Fortunately, the sharp end was in the water and no injuries were reported.

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John Collier, Ōmokoroa.

Fletcher Tabuteau MP New Zealand First Deputy Leader and Spokesperson for Finance

Clarke Road dumping

CLASSIfIEDS Business: $10 per 20 words Personal: $5 per 20 words

The dumping was stopped, but nobody was prosecuted. Now the property owners have applied for resource consent to dump 436,000 cubic meters of fill, equivalent to 43,600 truckloads, spread over 20 years, in a peaceful rural/residential area along a beautiful stream.

Cooney Reserve

esidents of Clarke Rd and Te Puna Rd, thank you for your input regarding the proposed dump site at 109 Clarke Road. (See Page 3 of February’s Lizard News). Your emails give clear accounts of previous dumping on this site in 2017/18, and say that it caused damage including: dangerous traffic situations, damaged road seal, continuous noise & dust, visual effect as

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Tremendous housing growth expected north of Tauranga

Touted as a 'local favourite', the G.J Gardner Showhome on the corner of Charlotte Drive and Kayelene Place is open for viewing 12pm to 4pm, Tuesday to Sunday. PHOTOS: Supplied.

By Matthew Farrell orn and raised in the Bay of Plenty, Steve Watt says he is excited about being in partnership with Shane and Kirsty McConnell of GJ Gardner Homes Tauranga.

A local licenced builder, Steve has already managed a couple of hundred new home builds in Ōmokoroa and Katikati with G.J’s. After being part of the team for seven years working as Tauranga’s Construction Manager, Steve is thrilled to open a second franchise in the Bay’s north area.

“I have lived in the Bay my whole life, starting as an

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apprentice with a local high-end architectural builder.

I’m enjoying the challenge of owning my own business,” he says.

Steve grew up in Pāpāmoa and Te Puke before moving to Ōmokoroa six months ago with wife Renee and children Jed (5) and Van (1).

“The move means we can better serve our northern customers and connect with them closer to home.

“The Tauranga Northern Link is going to make this a big growth area. The new highway to be constructed will tremendously expand and open up further development.

L-R: Shane, Kirsty, and Steve at the Te Puna office.

“For me, this is one of those important ‘life moves’, we’ve done it as a family, and we are here to be involved with and immersed in the Ōmokoroa community,” says Steve.

Young Jed is about to begin school at Ōmokoroa Point and has just started Rippa Rugby.

Outside of work, Steve enjoys family time, mountain biking and surfing.

Steve welcomes those looking to build to drop by his new office, next to Nourish cafe, off SH2. He’s open for business from 8.30am to 5pm weekdays. Call him on 027 446 6557 to discuss your next build project.

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As an application for 20 years of dumping in Te Puna is made to the BoP Regional Council, a resident supplied these images to Lizard News

It is claimed sediment run-off from dumping blocked the small Hakao stream and increased the water table in the valley throughout 2017/2018.

Previous dumping of clean fill at the same location caused continuous noise of dump trucks and bulldozers in 2017/2018, according to this resident.

We are told the Hakao that runs along the dumpsite is a delicate stream, full of life, but prone to blockage.

A year after the previous dumping was put on hold, the dumpsite is green, the river flows and paddocks produce hay again. A resident tells us, if consent is granted, all trees on the bank will be removed, and a layer of 3 to 20 metres of clean fill will cover the full bank from left to right. The industrial noise will continue for 20 years.

A neighbour describes the land at 109 Clarke Road as being in state of neglect, with gorse now spreading to neighbouring properties

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Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade

One person received moderate injuries in a crash near Youngson Road. SH2 was blocked at peak hour, and diversions were put in place.

By Ian Blunt, Chief Fire Officer total of six motor vehicle accidents in January on State Highway 2 is unacceptable. The last on Tuesday 28th January took place near Youngson Road when a driver attempted to carry out a U-turn in front of a following vehicle, at about 5.45pm.

Of the six accidents, all but one involved multiple vehicles. Thankfully there were no fatalities, but the potential was there for serious injury. Please be patient.

We all know the road is congested. Leave for your journeys earlier and think about others who are driving the same route. After all, we all want to return home safely at night.

February has been vegetation fire month, with people ignoring the total fire ban rules and lighting up rubbish fires. Brigades are on high alert with extra engines added to each vegetation fire call, putting a strain on

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A fire at a bark processing factory in Plummers Point Road was quickly extinguished. PHOTOS: Matthew Farrell.

volunteer resources across the Western Bay. From Te Puna to Tuapiro - a total of eight vegetation fires had been responded to with the Ōmokoroa brigade assisting Katikati twice. One address required two responses from our brigade, 12 hours apart.

Another was an accidental blaze in Whakamārama, when sparks from angle grinding ignited dry grass, about 7km up Whakamārama Road on Monday 24th February.

The following day just after 6am, there was a call to a bark processing factory in Plummers Point Road, where the screening plant was totally on fire. A second alarm call was initiated; four fire trucks and three water tankers were in use. The fire was brought under control within half an hour, before dampening continued for a couple of hours. Investigators were on site.

A later call on Tuesday 25th was to assist Tauranga

at another vegetation fire on Pītau Road, Te Puna. Ōmokoroa volunteers were there for a couple of hours.

A vigilant First Responder heard a smoke alarm at an unoccupied house on Western Ave. The brigade responded and found a faulty alarm was the culprit. Another false alarm was at the Western Bay of Plenty District Council pump station across the road from the Fire Station, on Monday 24th February.

At the time of writing a total fire ban remains in place.

Please obey the rules.

The First Responders have had sixteen calls since our last report - attending the motor vehicle accident near Youngson Road with firefighters - as well as cases of cardiac arrests, chest pains, breathing difficulties, and a couple of falls. Two calls in one day on Sunday 2nd February and again on Friday 21st February also kept the First Responders on their toes.

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Steampunk shenanigans in Katikati t was a glorious day in Katikati on Monday 3rd February. What better way to enjoy the day than meet up with friends, lace up a corset and pop on a top hat, then perambulate among the murals and take in the sights? During our photoshoot, we literally stopped the traffic and had many toots and waves. Two couples, who were driving through, pulled over to see what was going on. They stayed in town to take their own photos. Local business staff joined in the shenanigans too. Smiles all around.

Steampunk is not everyone's 'thing'. In fact, some might not even understand precisely what the 'thing' is. If you asked for a definition of Steampunk you would get many answers. My favourite is, "We are the hippies of the 1890's".

My name is Lady Hannah Dashery Buckle and I am an active member of Steampunk Tauranga. Our group brings together people from all over the North Island, to enjoy each other's company and creativity. We like to support local events and other Steampunk groups by adding our unique splash of fashion.

The next big event we will attend is, The Easter

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Bunny Birthday Bash. This is hosted by Steampunk Paeroa and is taking place on Saturday 11th April at Karangahake Hall. It is a rain or shine event for all the family. There will be a steampunk car boot, an Easter egg hunt, teapot racing and steampunk-inspired

Easter hats. In the afternoon, steampunkers will celebrate their birthdays at a Mad Hatter's inspired party. Why not check out the details on the Steampunk Paeroa Facebook site and join the festivities.

HELP - (a knock to the Beatles) outside the War Memorial Museum. L-R: Phil Hyde, Lindsey Morgan, Vivianne Proffitt and Glenna Wood. PHOTO: Supplied.

Katikati pond progressing orks to convert a stormwater pond into an attractive lake for the Katikati community to utilise continue to move ahead.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council, in response to a community request, has been busy assessing the technical viability of converting the large typically dry stormwater pond in the Highfields subdivision into a permanent lake.

Work on the next stage of the lake development has just been completed with the raising of the pipes at the two outlets and the cutting of weeds and wil-

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| Lizard News | March 2020

lows that have grown over the last few years.

This recent work is part of an overall plan to convert the stormwater pond into an attractive lake which will, in turn, compliment Haiku Park.

Over the last three years, several stages have been completed. These include the initial feasibility study undertaken by engineers, Tonkin Taylor, followed by geotech work to determine the viability of permanently raising the water level by one metre behind the stopbank.

Bores have been put down to measure

the groundwater levels starting with ‘no water’ in the proposed lake and further measurements will continue to be taken during the period the lake is filling.

“Council is very mindful of the possible impact this lake could have on the stopbank and the housing close to the proposed lake,” says Council’s group manager infrastructure services, Gary Allis.

“The stopbank was constructed many years ago and the pond was developed mainly to catch sediment during the construction phase of the Highfields subdivision. Therefore we have to be quite

sure that we understand the risks and potential problems that may arise with the raising of the lake level.”

It is planned to raise the water levels by 0.5 metres at a time, holding the initial level for a time while monitoring for any changes.

If the technical evidence shows that there is little or no effect, the water level will be raised to the next level.

The development of the surrounds with planting (native grasses and sedges) is subject to the technical evidence should there be little or no effect.

Article supplied.

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Te Puna Kindy farewells kaiako n memory of the loss of a dear colleague at Te Puna Community Kindergarten - Kristi McIntyre - who passed away in January. Kristi was a cherished kaiako and will be incredibly missed.

The Te Puna Community Kindergarten teaching team would like to acknowledge and remember the contribution Kristi made to the team, the children and whānau of Te Puna, and to the ‘Inspired’ Kindergarten Association. Arohanui, our dear Whāea Kristi.

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Police busy as new Constable arrives

By Senior Sergeant Chris Summerville here has been plenty going on for Western Bay of Plenty and Tauranga Police of late with some major incidents that have gained local and national media attention. While these matters have been tragic, far-reaching and involved police staff from all over the country, I would like to affirm that these incidents have very much come down to the actions of individuals.

Public safety has been a priority for us during these matters and we are confident that the general public can go about their lives freely and safely as normal.

In light of the demand on our police resources of the last few weeks, we have had some abstractions from our core roles but have been mindful of this and are working very hard to get back to normal. This has meant the Tauranga Community Constable Paul Wrigley had to leave the role and it has been vacant for about a month.

We have just appointed Edward “Timo” Gardiner to the position and he took active duty from Sunday 23rd February. His first job was to be attendance at the Gate Pā Gala Day. Timo has a wealth of frontline Police experience, is a local Tauranga boy and plays a mean game of rugby at centre or No.8 for the Rangataua Rugby Club.

As we have not had a local Community Constable in place for the last month I would just like to cover off some of the other crime and issues we have had in that time within the Tauranga Community Constables beat.

For your information, the beat that is covered by the Tauranga Community Constable is Matua, Ōtūmoetai, Bellevue, Brookfield, Bethlehem, Judea, Tauranga CBD, The Avenues, Gate Pā, Te Puna, and Ōmokoroa - which means general summaries that the other areas get are not really possible, but I will let you know some of the key themes of late.

We have noticed an upsurge in number plate thefts from vehicles, this has happened in and around the Tauranga Hospital and Gate Pā area and side streets off Waihī Rd in Judea and Brookfield. Tamper-proof screws available from hardware shops are recommended to be fitted, but I appreciate that’s not possible for everyone.

We encourage people to lock their cars, take their valuables with them and set alarms if they have them. Parking in areas with CCTV is always a great option too.

Burglaries have been on the decline and we are happy to announce an Auckland man was arrested and charged with recent jewellery burglaries in the Bethlehem area that occurred in November, December and January.

There has been no real pattern in burglaries and no particular suburb featuring as high risk of late. Many of the burglaries have been in unoccupied locations like building sites with tools taken. For example, Ōmokoroa had three burglaries in 21 days - at Ōmokoroa Road, where machinery on a subdivision had CB radios taken, one at the school on Hamurana Road where some young persons entered the sports shed, and one at a residential address in Beach Grove where some outdoor chairs were taken.

As with the number plate thefts, prevention and target hardening are recommended. Target hardening is where you take steps to make your property difficult to steal through locking it, not having valuable items in view, having adequate lighting or CCTV and fostering a good relationship with your neighbours to watch out for your property while you are away to name just a few.

Finally, I would like to thank the public for their fantastic support in this time of high demand for our local police staff. We have had numerous calls, letters and words of support from all areas of the community which has been very much appreciated by our staff.

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Northern Link back on again he new Tauranga Northern Link (TNL) corridor will provide residents and visitors to the Bay of Plenty with safer, more resilient access to one of New Zealand’s highest growth areas.

This level of growth is forecast to continue for several more decades, making it critical to provide a transport system that offers safer choices for people to move about and ensure the region thrives by being able to take advantage of economic growth opportunities. Current demand on State Highway 2 (SH2) is a barrier to economic and residential growth.

The NZ Upgrade Programme is providing $478 million to build the new TNL, connecting State Highway 29 (SH29) Tākitimu Drive through to SH2 near Loop Road, west of Te Puna.

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The new four-lane corridor will have a separated walking and cycling path along the entire length, including across the new Wairoa River bridge. One lane in each direction will be used to prioritise public transport, vehicles carrying multiple passengers and/or freight.

An interchange overbridge at Minden Road and underpasses at Cambridge Road and Wairoa Road will help improve safety and efficiently manage the forecast traffic growth.

The Tauranga Northern Link is a key part of the region’s SmartGrowth strategy.

Construction of the five-year project is scheduled to begin late 2020, with all consenting and the designation completed.

Article: Supplied.

Benefits:

• • • •

Prioritising public transport Improving safety Enhancing economic growth Improving resilience

Scope:

• New 6.8km four-lane corridor with managed lanes • Overbridge interchange at Minden Road • New bridge crossing Wairoa River • Underpasses at Cambridge Road and Wairoa Road • New westbound, single-lane connection from Fifteenth Avenue to Tākitimu Drive toll road • Separated pedestrian/cycling facility

Timeline:

• Contract awarded, late 2020 • Construction starts, late 2020 • Construction completed, late 2025

Delays on SH2 between Katikati and Tauranga otorists travelling on State Highway 2 between Tauranga and Katikati were experiencing delays of around 40 minutes early last month due to a work site between Whakamārama and Te Puna.

The Transport Agency’s Rob Campbell says to minimise disruption to motorists works have been carried out overnight, however, temporary speed restrictions have been required during the day to ensure the safety of road users and prevent damage to vehicles, and this results in delays.

Emergency works were also in place on State High-

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way 2 near the Waihī Road underpass on the morning of Saturday 1st February.

NZ Transport Agency’s Rob Campbell says the uneven road surface was a potential hazard, particularly for heavy vehicles and those towing boats or trailers.

“The works were needed to make the road more level, safe and smooth for motorists.”

A more permanent road repair, which will include improving the drainage to reduce the amount of water on the road following heavy rain, will get underway later this year.

He says these summer works are part of the Trans-

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port Agency’s biggest road maintenance programme in a decade.

“We appreciate road works can be frustrating, but these important works will improve the road, increase safety and make future journeys more enjoyable. The Transport Agency thanks motorists for their patience,” says Rob. He encourages motorists to plan ahead for road works, allow extra time for their journeys, delay unnecessary travel where possible and follow signposted speed limits through work sites.

Article supplied.

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Sir John Kirwan gives backing to Waihī Beach Menz Shed he Waihī Beach Menz Shed has received support from Sir John Kirwan, who is coming on board as their patron. Sir John Kirwan, who has a holiday home in Waihī Beach and has spent much time in the surf and fishing at the beach as a boy, said he was pleased to get in behind the initiative as it supports men’s mental health.

“New Zealand has a shocking rate of declining mental health, especially in our male population, and clubs such as this support greater physical health and mental fitness. I wholeheartedly support the Menz Shed and proud to be their patron,” said Sir John Kirwan.

Brian Baynes, the Menz Shed Chairperson said: “Having JK come on board is super exciting for the team, he not only has a passion for Waihī Beach but brings with him national recognition for the work he has been doing for men’s mental health.”

Sir John Kirwan established the JK Foundation in 2016. The foundation’s focus is to build a programme that educates young New Zealanders around all aspects

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of mental health so they will be well-positioned to recognise and positively deal with life when it gets a bit tough.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council has agreed to a lease for the club behind the community centre and the Community Board has agreed to grant up to $30,000 in support. Waihī Beach Community Board chair Ross Goudie said: “community initiatives such as this is exactly what the board are looking for, projects that support local community objectives is what the recently approved Community Plan is all based around, and we’re pleased to be able to support the club to get off the ground.”

The Menz Shed have received their charitable trust status and a donation of $2,000 has also been received from the Waihī Beach RSA. A local individual was excited to pledge $5,000 in cash to the club.

Menz Shed Chairperson Mr Baynes said “Generous donations from locals have enabled us to start on our plans for the shed. But we have a lot more fundraising to do

and we’re looking for anyone who is interested in donating cash, time or stuff.”

For more information and to donate, see www.waihibeachmenzshed.co.nz Article supplied.

Increased Police presence following recent Western Bay incidents

By Inspector Clifford Paxton Western Bay of Plenty Area Commander

olice would like to reassure the community that we are treating recent incidents in the Western Bay of Plenty extremely seriously, and the safety and wellbeing of everyone is our priority.

We acknowledge the alarm that these recent incidents have caused.

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We know tensions between gangs have caused fears for safety to arise, however, we would like to reassure people that general members of the public are not the focus of those tensions.

That being said, gang violence in our community is not acceptable and will not be tolerated.

The criminal and antisocial behaviour of gangs has a detrimental effect on our communities, and their actions, lifestyle and a range of unlawful behaviour contribute to people feeling unsafe.

Following recent incidents, we have increased the Police presence in the area.

The community can assist - where people are seeing things that concern them, we want to know.

We are already seeing good support from our communities and we'd like to thank them for that support.

Anyone who has immediate concerns for the safety of themselves or others should call 111.

Anyone who would like to report anything of a less urgent nature can phone 105.

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Security camera register

By Cathy Taylor and Annabel Reyes rivate homeowners are increasingly installing CCTV on their properties as preventative measures to deter crime.

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As this valuable tool gains popularity, Neighbourhood Support is now creating a register of the locations of those CCTV cameras in our member database, so that footage can be made available to Police if an incident occurs.

If you have a CCTV camera on your property and you would like to assist us in our aim to deter and reduce property crime, you can register your CCTV by emailing us on: data@wbopnz.org.nz with the subject line “Please register my CCTV”.

There have been instances where incidents of property crime have been posted online. The funny thing is that sometimes that incident does not show up in records such as the Property Crime Report. That means the victim has seen fit to post on social media but has neglected to actually report the incident to Police.

Does it not seem logical that if the Police do not know about it, the odds of apprehending the offender is almost nil. The opportunity to target Community Patrol in the area may be lost.

Make sure that you report all property crime either at a Police Station, Police Information Centre such as Ōmokoroa Library, or via the new 105 service. That’s what it is for.

Call 111 if there is an immediate threat to human life or property when a crime is happening now – and the offenders are still there or have just left.

Thanks to some hard work and recommendations from you we have recently recruited nine new Street Coordinators.

This represents more than 100 new households who will benefit from feeling more connected to their neighbours keeping our community safer and stronger.

Do you know someone on Gane Place that would make a good Street Coordinator? Call or text Ōmokoroa Neighbourhood Support Area Co-ordinators Cathy 021 704 686 or Annabel 021 445 476 or email nsomokoroa@wbopns.org.nz

Witnesses sought to fatal Police shooting

By Matthew Farrell t’s been a busy month for Police in the Western Bay, with a double homicide, a linked fatal Police shooting and the related death of a woman in a domestic incident.

It began with shots fired at a property in Omanawa on the evening of Tuesday 11th February.

Police found two men dead at an Ormsby Lane address, leading to a forensic scene examination, the involvement of a specialist search group from Auckland and additional investigation staff from around the country.

The two men who died at the property were aged 32 and 43. Police believe they were known to each other.

Two days later, a section of State Highway 2 from Moffat Road at Bethlehem to 15th Avenue in Judea was closed. Police had returned fire and killed the driver of a vehicle who had fled from Brookfield, firing multiple volleys of shots at two Police vehicles in six minutes.

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District Commander Superintendent Andy McGregor says in an exchange of gunfire, the offending driver was wounded and his vehicle slowed to a stop.

The officers moved forward and called for medical assistance; however, the driver 33-year-old Anthony John Fane was pronounced dead at the scene.

“This was an incredibly dynamic situation for the officers involved, who are being supported and will be stood down from duty for some time as is standard in these situations.

“A fatal shooting is an outcome nobody wants, however, if people present firearms to us or other members of the public, we will respond accordingly, with the appropriate degree of force necessary to ensure staff and public safety,” he says.

Multiple investigations are underway.

On the afternoon of Friday 14th February, a 25-yearold Bay of Plenty man was arrested at New Brighton in Christchurch and charged with murder the following

day in relation to the double homicide.

Police believe the man arrested and the man shot by Police were known to each other.

Superintendent McGregor says the incidents appear to be unrelated to gang conflict although Police is aware the incidents have involved gang members.

The same day 30-year-old Jessie Lee Booth was found dead at Lynwood Place in Brookfield.

Police believed she might have been dead for a couple of days as the result of a domestic incident.

Enquiries suggested her death was connected to the incident where the two men died in Omanawa and the firearms incident that resulted in the death of Anthony Fane.

Police are asking for witnesses to the fleeing driver incident and fatal Police shooting.

You can call Tauranga Police on 105 and reference Operation Judea, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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Captain Fantastic offers to tickle your fancy

By Matthew Farrell n Ōmokoroa woman who makes and imports “party clothes for party people,” says she was blown away by the response to a recent pop-up shop on Auckland’s K Road.

Karangahape Road in the central business district is known for eateries, art galleries, high fashion and vintage clothing in a nightlife precinct.

Sam Thompson says her Captain Fantastic unisex

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garments were flying out of the door.

“There was a queue to get in. People were doubled up in booths and getting changed in the open because they couldn’t wait. I sold 75% of the stock I was carrying,” she says.

Demand was high due to several LGBT+ Pride events and the Splore Festival, billed as NZ’s biggest costume party with 9,000 people at a beach music festival.

“I have just done a collaboration with Auckland Council on a window display in one of their centres, and also a music video which is under wraps, but about to be released.

“A major publication wants to use some of my pieces in a photoshoot, with massive circulation and exposure for the Captain Fantastic brand.”

Sam now has a regular spot every first Thursday of the month at the K Road night market and has an event coming up at a fetish ball.

“That’s a bit more edgy, on the dark side. I’m trying to diversify my market. Festivals are seasonal, but kinky people are kinky all year. I’m supplying rave wear, calendar girls, burlesque dancers, and mums and dads having themed costume parties.

“I’m also hosting pop-ins at home by appointment for people driving from Hamilton and Tauranga. They play

dress-up with a glass of champagne. It’s a lot of fun, a good way of selling and an honest way of shopping.

Friends will tell you how you look,” she says.

The business has snowballed since July last year after Sam spent years making custom costumes and hats for herself and friends.

“I can’t make enough stuff myself. Now I help people track things down from London, the USA, and China. I follow the global trends among festival fashionistas and recently brought in quality stock from Ukraine. I use trusted retailers and suppliers and small independent designers. I bring in limited runs of things to keep it fresh and exciting.

“It’s about bringing sunshine and sparkle into lives.

There’s an interest in the escapism of dressing up. We all like to party now and again. I’m passionate about this. It’s been my tribe since the 1990s, and I’m at the point where I can grow this and call it my own.

“I never considered myself a salesperson, but I can sell this stuff because I believe in it and I don’t even have to push. I make the most of the connections I have built over the years.”

Sam believes her retail market exists because people need to try on niche clothing and no one else in NZ is doing what she does.

Former Ōmokoroa volunteer firefighter Brian Kirk with his son and current firefighter Matthew Kirk and the brigade’s 1937 V8 Ford. Ōmokoroa Automotive generously supports the brigade, making sure the vehicle is warranted for use in the community. PHOTO: Ian Blunt.

Sam Thompson imports and retails festival costume wear. Photos: Ignacio Navarro.

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Notes from Te Puna Heartlands

By Beth Bowden t its last meeting on 13th February, Te Puna Heartlands considered actions it could take in response to community concerns, and in relation to the Te Puna Community Plan. There were quite a few of both.

Road safety and transportation issues prompted a decision to repeat the arguments already given to NZTA over speed limits to the Mayor’s review on the same topic, and to copy these into the Regional Council.

A brief update on progress towards completion of the Te Puna Hall was also provided. Funding applications to cover the difference in costs between the “likefor-like” Hall and the Hall that would meet current community needs were underway. The opening ceremony was expected to be held on or about 18th April.

Local community protests over the handling of infill activities on Clarke Road were reported. An effective public campaign was underway but a submission from Te Puna Heartlands endorsing Plan Change 85 was also requested. Of course, individual submissions can also be made. Plan Change 85 looks at altering the rules for large scale clear fill activities to better manage things like heavy vehicle traffic, noise, dust, vibration, loss of visual amenity, property damage and safety of access.

Continued and longstanding concern over activities on Station Road’s industrial area also emerged. Te Puna Heartlands will be writing, again, to the

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Council asking for better monitoring and compliance with the terms of use for this site, and supporting the work of local residents who are bringing active complaints about the lax interpretation of the conditions, and adverse environmental impacts, to the point that abatement notices are expected. At the time of the Heartlands’ meeting, these had not yet been issued.

Residents’ safety and concerns over increasing anti-social and criminal behaviour in Te Puna was a major topic of discussion. This ranged from accounts of frightening road gatherings to organised raids on orchards, garages and front yards. Solutions canvassed turned mainly on camera installations and neighbourhood information-sharing, and the need for a public meeting. Outcomes from a much wider community meeting on 20th February, convened by the Mayors of Tauranga and of Western Bay, will be taken into account as part of Heartlands’ response.

The meeting concluded with a brief outline of progress on the plan for the Te Puna commercial area around SH2 and the available options for stormwater and wastewater management in the vicinity.

Heartlands meetings are open to anyone who lives in Te Puna, whether as a ratepayer or a tenant. Its meetings, chaired by Rowena Pearce, are usually on the second Thursday of every evennumbered month. If you want to be on its mailing list, contact Liz Riepen: lizr@xtra.co.nz

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Community evening for Ōmokoroa Road upgrade mokoroa residents were invited to an information evening for the upgrade of the stretch of Ōmokoroa Road from Western Avenue to Tralee Street, which is due to start construction this year.

Hosted by Western Bay of Plenty District Council, the meeting on Wednesday, 19th February from 6-8pm at the Ōmokoroa Community Church, outlined the work programme for the project that was to be tendered in February.

Traffic travelling along the peninsula will be impacted due to temporary traffic management required for the construction. Property access along the project length may be temporarily impacted due

Ō

Travel will be impacted due to temporary traffic management required.

to the reconstruction of driveways.

Construction of this two-lane, 1100m of new roadway will include: the relocation of underground services; relocation of existing overhead power lines; upgrading stormwater pipes; upgrading street lighting; installation of a new water main; road widening with kerb and channel; a footpath and shared pedestrian/cycleway; pedestrian and cycleway facilities for crossing Ōmokoroa Road; new bus stops and two new bus shelters; an upgrade of the Tralee Street/Margaret Road intersection; a new roundabout at McKenna/Ōmokoroa Road intersection; a concrete median barrier along the roadway between

Some locals expect bad drivers to execute dangerous right turns when exiting the Medical Centre and neighbouring retail area, despite the road designer’s intention to improve the safety of the intersection.

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McKenna Lane and Tralee Street, to enable safer vehicle movement on both sides of Ōmokoroa Road for traffic going in and out of the neighbouring commercial premises, medical centre, supermarket and holiday park.

The work is due to be carried out over two construction seasons (2020/2021) with completion estimated by June 2021.

The $8 million upgrade is being jointly funded Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency and Council.

Western Bay Mayor Garry Webber says while the project will create some short term traffic disruption and inconvenience, the upgrade is an essential link in Ōmokoroa’s roading network to cater for

subdivision development and population growth.

“Ultimately, this project will provide a safer environment and amenity for residents, motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians. We are fortunate to have secured 51 per cent funding from the Transport Agency to enable this work to go ahead,” says Garry.

This Ōmokoroa Road urbanisation project adds to the upgrade of Ōmokoroa Road from State Highway 2 to the railway line completed in 2018.

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Back to the Future on boundaries

By Hon Scott Simpson MP For Coromandel

s the Member of Parliament for Coromandel, I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you.

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Scott Simpson, I was first elected Coromandel MP in 2011. I served as a Minister outside cabinet before the formation of the Labour-led coalition and I am currently the National Party Spokesperson for the Environment and Climate Change.

I am passionate about our natural environment and I’m equally passionate and focused on supporting our growing primary sector and fostering a strong local economy.

As you may have heard the proposed new electoral boundaries mean possible changes for both the Coromandel and Bay of Plenty electorates.

Huge population growth around Te Puna and Ōmokoroa means that the Bay of Plenty electorate needs to reduce in size to maintain relativity of voter numbers with other electorates around New Zealand.

The Boundaries Commission has made a provisional call to, therefore, return Ōmokoroa and its surrounds back into the Coro-

By Jackie Knotts he Settlers' Hall is home to the Ōmokoroa Artists Group, despite a lack of storage and a suitable sink for washing equipment. The membership continues to grow and although it can sometimes be a bit of a squeeze on Thursday mornings the members restrict their art activity to what is feasible in a small space.

Thursday mornings are a good opportunity to meet and exchange ideas and expertise. The small hall is not available on the 4th Thursday of each month

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mandel electorate. Coromandel thus gains a population of 6,800 around Ōmokoroa Beach from Bay of Plenty which will lose as it is 9.5% over quota.

The proposal mirrors boundary lines that used to exist about 15 years ago.

The current Coromandel electorate boundary extends south of Katikati and Aongatete so there is geographical logic to the change.

The final boundary lines for all electorates will be decided by the Commission in April 2020, ahead of the general election.

Serving as Coromandel’s voice and face in our Parliament is an honour and a privilege. It’s a job I love and one I take very seriously. Working hard goes with the territory and I’m keen and committed to continuing that work. Listening and learning from local people is a big part of the job and I want to continue to keep listening and keep learning about what’s important to you. In turn, I will be your strong voice in Parliament.

Art-related activities which is when members go elsewhere to sketch.

The ‘Have a Go’ sessions which have proved popular in previous years will start in May on a Wednesday morning.

These are an opportunity for anyone in Ōmokoroa or elsewhere in the area to try an art activity as a complete beginner or for others to get advice and feedback on their work.

Within the Ōmokoroa Artists group, there are experienced artists who are willing to give their time as tutors for free which means the cost of these sessions can be kept affordable - no tutor

fee just the cost of materials and hall hire. In addition to the ‘Have a Go’ sessions, the Ōmokoroa Artists hold workshops with established artists like Nick Eggleston to instruct in particular ways of working. These are usually restricted to 8 - 10 people and take place on a Wednesday.

What about people who would like to take an art class but work? The Ōmokoroa Artists have run evening classes in past years. However, as the population of Ōmokoroa increases so does the demand on the Settlers' Hall which is now not as available as in the past.

Scott Simpson MP for Coromandel mpcoromandel@parliament.govt.nz 07 549 4312

Todd Muller MP for Bay of Plenty todd.mullermp@parliament.govt.nz 07 542 0505

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This brings me to my personal belief that the existing library building is a perfect location for small groups to meet whether they be art and craft related or social or professional. There could be more art workshops if space was available.

The library building exists. If it goes I doubt whether such a suitable venue for small group activities will ever exist again. The Settlers' Hall is a great venue for larger groups and currently caters well for those who want to use the spaces. However, this could change as demand grows.

lizardnews.net

Digging in at Pahoia School

By Juanita Meder t's been a great start to the new school year at Pahoia School. We welcomed our new Deputy Principal and SENCO (Special Education Needs Coordinator), Helen Maxey, who has come to us from Gate Pā School.

Our Garden to Table programme has started with a roar. Tui Garden Products sent ten volunteers to work on some overgrown areas of the school, allowing us to expand and develop more vegetable growing space. We are so grateful to be the first Bay of Plenty school chosen as part of this initiative.

It is the support of businesses like Tui that allow us to offer the Garden to Table programme to our students. We are grateful for their time and support.

Our Splash 'n' Dash Day was more Dash than Splash this year, as we are aware of water restrictions, but that certainly didn't stop the fun!

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Tui volunteers helping expand the garden area.

Splash…

...and Dash Day. PHOTOS: Supplied.

What use is the library?

By Heather Reynolds t has been a long-standing view of many residents of Ōmokoroa to retain the current Library building for community use when the library service moves to the new Western Avenue complex.

The very site on the north end of the peninsula lends itself to a whole host of uses and there are many reasons to maintain the building as a community space.

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There is a very lively group of shops in the very close proximity of the building, namely op shop, takeaway shop, café, real estate, accountancy, hairdresser, lawyer, dairy, vehicle repair garage and tyre business, not to mention parking.

The projected increase of the population on the peninsula is 12,000, so making it into a community hub seems the most common-sense outcome.

A suggested way of running the premises would be to run it along the lines of the Ōmokoroa Settlers Hall. User

pays, maintenance shared between residents and Council.

The following is a list of possible community uses: Art gallery space for residents; small art/craft classes run by individuals; business meeting space for people who work from home but occasionally require a meeting room; small group activities such as chess, book club, etc; Ōmokoroa Point School outreach space for study groups; Ōmokoroa Environmental Managers Inc meetings and projects; Justice

of the Peace Service Centre; Police kiosk; young mum’s meeting place; Community Board meetings; Justice Department family meetings; Community Development Plan meetings and displays; music lessons; The Centre op shop meetings, and plenty more, I’m sure.

This space could be run by a management committee of like-minded residents to maintain such a valuable asset in our community.

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Tall tennis tales

By Jeff Warren Club Captain ately, I’ve been slower at doing tennis reports than I am around the courts, so with that in mind may I be the last to wish you all a happy Christmas and best wishes for 2020!

So, here’s a quick recap. On 14th December we had our club day sausage sizzle and fancy dress Christmas do. It was good to see a few non-members attend and wave bats around with the rest of us. ‘Lucky shot’ Liz Megchelse won the fancy dress award only because her luck deserted her on the day at tennis and she gets very cross if she doesn’t win anything, so we appeased her with the fancy dress award.

As I write this, Pete O ‘deary me’ Dea is about to start the Saturday morning junior coaching again and this will swiftly be followed by a couple of junior inter-club teams taking on other Western Bay juniors over the coming weeks. We have also been running a business house competition on Thursday nights that has been a great success. Congratulations to our men’s inter-club team who have won their first game of the new year. Saturday and Tuesday club day numbers are still surprisingly high given the intense heat that we have been experiencing.

There were a couple of sweltering days when numbers were down, but we have some very

L

daft members who like to play on (no sense, no feeling!)

As I missed the January edition, I’d like to now share with you some of our club members resolutions for the New Year. Our favourite ‘Reverend with the racquet’ the minister who gets sinister as soon as he steps on court, Mr Pittendreigh, has resolved not to be too grumpy when Scotland lose every game of the Six Nations, his great nelly of a wife ‘whacky’ Jacqui has resolved to be even louder when she misses a clear winner. Andrew ‘dilly dally’ Dallas has resolved to admit to shooting JR, our old friend ‘lucky bounce’ Bardwell has resolved to quit the performance-enhancing drugs even if it means he will have to be known as ‘bad bounce’ Bardwell. ‘Tie break’ Tim Dunn has resolved to finally beat an opponent without the use of a tie-break and Dr Jeff ‘dodgy knees’ Brownless has resolved to stop throwing the ball so high on his serve. Honestly the other day he threw it so high it came back down with ice on it.

Right, that’s upset a few people. I am taking a rest from doing these write-ups and other tennis duties for a while. I’d like to end by apologising to all those who I have poked fun at and cast aspersions on in the past, but I’m not that sort of a person - so I won’t!

Happy bat wafting everyone.

Liz Megchelse (left) won the fancy dress award. PHOTO: Supplied.

Te Puna community library e Puna residents, this is your very own local amenity that provides a treasure trove of thousands of books, fiction and non-fiction, plus magazines and official Council documents.

It is located in the Te Puna School Library building in Te Puna Road and opening hours are Wednesday evenings between 6.30 - 7.30pm, and Saturdays from

T

10am to 12pm. At the evening session, there is usually a JP in attendance to offer their services.

There is a keen bunch of local volunteers who open and manage the facility - and who choose and buy the newest and latest, most exciting releases about twice a year - using the member gold coin donations, and the rating library levy collected by the

Western Bay District Council. Remember when you were reading a really good book, and you just couldn’t put it down? Hours passed as the pages came to life. Inspiration awaits at the amazing Te Puna Community Library.

For further information, contact Karen on 027 290 9945.

Packhouse staff

WE NEED YOU! Come be part of the crew at our centrally located Katikati Packhouse for the 2020 Kiwifruit Packing Season. It’s an awesome work environment with a great bunch of people.

We’ve got day and night shift options so what are you waiting for? Call us now!

WE NEED EXPERIENCED EDI, Quality Controllers, Floor Supervisors, Lab Staff, Internal Auditors, Field Auditors, Bin Tip Operators, Forklift Drivers.

WE ALSO NEED Packers, Graders, Stackers, Strappers, Tray Prep, Documentation Clerks, Reject Analysers.

APPLY NOW IN PERSON AT HUME PACK - N - COOL, 4 PROSPECT DRIVE, RD2 KATIKATI, 3178 OR CALL 07 549 1011 18

| Lizard News | March 2020

APPLY NOW FOR SEASONAL KIWIFRUIT WORK 07 549 1011

lizardnews.net

Welcome to Infinite Beauty: Skincare & Facials Advertorial Hands & Feet - Tinting, Waxing & Sugaring - Body & Massage

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t Infinite Beauty we aim to educate, inform, motivate and empower our clients to get the best results with a holistic perspective from the inside to out.

Welcome to Infinite Beauty, where we want you to experience the very best in professional skincare service and personal attention. Our aim is to make you look and feel your best.

At Infinite Beauty, we strive to provide all your skin health requirements. Our treatment rooms are peaceful and air-conditioned for your comfort, a place to escape, soothe your mind and relax your body. Our team of fully qualified professional therapists are caring and eager to help.

Product selection Every product brand we have selected is based on our 14 years of experience in the Australian and New Zealand advanced skin and beauty care market.

Each product we have is designed for a specific purpose in the skin at the highest level of care. We believe education and understanding are fundamental to helping clients get the best results.

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Here at Infinite Beauty we continually strive to educate ourselves and our clients informing you of what we believe to be the best treatments and products to get results from inside to out. We believe in motivating our clients and change to certain aspects of your lifestyle, diet, regimes in a holistic manner, to ensure you get the best results for your needs.

We specialise in skin treatments, stress managements, detoxification, strained muscles, nails and hair removal - our goal is to work with you for you to feel your best and to take care of you, so you look and feel amazing from inside to out. Our beauty treat-

ments are designed to align with your needs; rediscover your glow, boost your confidence or embark on a voyage of pure relaxation.

Infinite Beauty offers a full range of beauty salon services, with a focus on specialist skin care and advice for all ages and problems. Relax in our hands, and leave with the knowledge you need to build upon your treatment and care for your skin at home.

• Customer care is paramount • Attention to detail is crucial • Every customer should be treated as an individual - Katrina Amundsen, MANAGER - SKIN & BEAUTY SPECIALIST.

Check in to check out on stress

Please don’t leave us hanging

For new guests, please arrive 10 minutes before your treatment to allow time for us to get to know you better by getting your preferences and background information.

Like many businesses, we rely on having our team happily booked to be able to price our treatments accordingly. If you cancel at short notice that means we have a period of time where we have costs of wages and running the business and most likely will have turned away other guests earlier, as we may not have time to resell your time slot.

For all guests, late arrival will mean we have to cut your treatment short as we can’t hold up the guest after you who arrives on time, so please try to be there in time to catch your breath and relax before your treatment.

Please give us 24 hours’ notice (48 hours for bookings for 2 or more guests) if you can’t make it or we do need to charge 50% of your treatment cost. We may require a credit card or voucher number to secure your booking which will only be charged if you no-show or cancel within the time zone.

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Beautiful new rooms available for rent to health, beauty & wellness professionals.

07 549 4375 30 Main Road, Shop 11, Cherry Court, Katikati infinitebeautyclinic@gmail.com • @infinitebeautyltd

w ww.in fi n it ebea u ty. co .nz March 2020 | Lizard news |

19

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY – WEEKLY EVENTS

lizardnews.net

Here are some of the groups and activities which happen regularly in the area. If you have a regular group you’d like to add to the list, please email liz@lizardnews.net or call 548 1200.

Public swimming every day at Dave Hume Pool, Katikati. Check www.davehumepoolkk.com for times and prices, or call 549 1069.

MONDAYS

Aqua-aerobics 9am Ōmokoroa Hot Pools.

Sessions $6 per person. Contact Kim on 027 246 8635. Ōmokoroa Tennis Club 9-11am. Contact Club Captain Jeff Warren on 021 109 9668.

Ōmokoroa Playcentre is open from 9am-noon. The first three visits are free. Contact omokoroa@playcentre.org.nz

Katikati Playcentre is open from 9am-noon. The first three visits are free. 6 Binnie Road. Contact katikati@playcentre.org.nz or 07 549 0211.

Katikati Bowling Club Combined Roll-up. 9.30am start. Names in by 9-15am please. All welcome.

Coaching available. 8 Park Rd, Katikati. Phone 549 0103.

‘Move It’ Fitness at Whakamārama Hall. 9.30am. $5 or $40 per term. Class runs for about 45 minutes. Phone Caryn 021 133 5390.

Fitness Fun Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 9.30-10.30am. Contact Gloria on 021 139 2448.

Pilates Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall. 9.30-10.30am.

Contact Claudia 021 192 7706.

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.

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

Community Tai Chi Katikati Memorial Hall Lounge 1pm during school terms. $5 or $40 per term. Contact Trish on communitytaichinz@gmail.com or 021 482 842.

Bolivia Pātuki Manawa 1-4pm. Some knowledge of canasta useful but not essential.

Movie Matinee 1.30pm at the Arts Junction, Katikati. Tickets $10. Limited seats. 549 5250.

Bridge Club Ōmokoroa Community Church Hall in the afternoons. Call David Luxton on 548 0521.

IGIRLZ Fun adventure and learning for girls 8 - 11.

6-7.30pm Ōmokoroa Community Church Hall. Call 548 2515.

Yoga Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 6.15-7.45pm.

Contact Mollie 021 177 8018.

Table Tennis at Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall. Any age 5.15-7pm, Seniors (18+) 7-9pm. $3 per single, $5 per couple. Includes supper. While-sole shoes preferred. Call Bruce Lauchlan on 548 1741.

Cards 500 7pm at Ōmokoroa Bowling Club. $3 includes tea and biscuits. Prizes plus raffles once a month. Carpooling from Katikati available. New members welcome. Contact Lorraine Taylor on 548 1404.

TUESDAYS

Social Tennis Waihī Beach Tennis Club 8.30/9 am start. All year. Casual & new players welcome. Call Barry 027 492 6475.

Te Puna Quarry Park clearing, planting and weed control from 8am and from 1.30pm. Contact Shirley on 552 2707.

Te Puna Tennis Club casual tennis. 9am start.

Casual and new players welcome. Phone Catherine 021 506855.

Katikati Playcentre is open from 9am-noon. The first three visits are free. 6 Binnie Road. Contact katikati@playcentre.org.nz or 07 549 0211.

Pahoia Creative Fibre group Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall. 1st, 3rd and 5th Tuesdays at 9.30am. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 7pm. Learn to spin, weave, felt, knit, crochet and more. New members welcome.

Call Barbara on 544 0920 or 021 144 6329.

Tai Chi 9.30-10.30am Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall.

Contact Trevor on 022 322 3410 or Anne 548 0763.

Mindful hatha yoga classes 9.30-10.30am and 6-7pm. Chair Yoga 11-12. Yoga for Every Body, 8a Vernon Rd, Te Puna. Contact Michelle on 021 044 1042.

Knit & Natter at both Ōmokoroa Library and Pātuki Manawa. 10am. Refreshments provided. Free.

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 Mahjong Circle 1pm at the Sports Pavilion, Western Avenue. Call Denise on 548 1385.

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. Contact info@katikaticommunity.nz or 549 0399 to register. Gold coin.

Intro to Tai Chi 2.30-3.30pm at Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall. Slow & graceful moves, suitable therapy for arthritis and balance. $7 per session.

1st class free. Contact Karin Brown baysyoga@xtra.co.nz or 548 1787.

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.

Yoga/Qi Gong Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 4pm-5.30pm. Contact Karin 548 1787.

Twilight Bowls from 5pm. Ōmokoroa Bowling Club, Hamurana Road. Starting 11 February through to 17 March. Teams of three or individuals. $20/team/night or $100 season.

Bowls supplied. Contact Graeme Thacker 548 2576 or Club 548 0077. Ōmokoroa Tennis Club 5-7pm. Contact Club Captain Jeff Warren on 021 109 9668.

Darts, Serious Singles Register names by 6.50pm for a 7pm start. Oche fees apply. Contact Top Shot Bar, Te Puna on 552 6405.

WEDNESDAYS

Gentle hatha yoga classes 8.15-9.15am and 121pm. Yoga for Every Body, 8a Vernon Rd, Te Puna.

Contact Michelle on 021 044 1042.

Community Tai Chi Waihī Beach RSA 9.30am during school terms. $5 or $40 per term. Contact Trish on communitytaichinz@gmail.com or 021 482 842.

‘Move It’ Fitness at Whakamārama Hall. 9.30am. $5 or $40 per term. Class runs for about 45 minutes. Phone Caryn 021 133 5390.

Zumba Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 9.30-10.30am.

Contact Carla 578 8780.

Keep on your Feet seated and standing exercises to music. All ages. 9.30-10.30 at Ōmokoroa Sports Pavilion. $6 or $50 for 10. Contact Maureen on mtaylor18@xtra.co.nz.

Stepping Up free computer classes at Katikati Library. Book on 571 8008 or www.steppingup.nz Wednesdays/Thursdays from February 12.

Fitness League exercise, movement, dance, focusing on posture, strengthening & stretching for all ages & abilities. Memorial Hall, Katikati at 10am. Phone Pam 549 4799.

Katikati Bowling Club Combined Roll-up.

1pm start. Names in by 12.45pm please. All welcome. Coaching available. 8 Park Rd, Katikati.

Phone 549 0103.

Community Tai Chi Bethlehem Hall 1pm during school terms. Contact Trish 021 482 842.

Adults Dance & Move 1.30pm Anglican Church, Beach Road, Katikati. Many styles of dance covered. No experience necessary, just a chance to have fun. Contact Gaye 07 577 1753 or 027 274 8753.

Licensed Salesperson REA 2008

tanya@pukehinarealty.co.nz

| Lizard News | March 2020

Justice of the Peace clinic 6.30-7.30pm Te Puna School Library.

Social Tennis Waihī Beach Tennis Club 8.30/9 am start. All year. Casual & new players welcome. Call Barry 027 492 6475.

Te Puna Community Library in the School library 6.30-7.30pm.

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

Quiz Night Waihī Beach Hotel, 60 Wilson Road. 79.30pm.

Casual Soccer at 7.15pm at Western Ave Sports Grounds bottom field. Over 12 years old. Call Hamish on 552 6427.

THURSDAYS

Ōmokoroa Tennis Club 9-11am. Contact Club Captain Jeff Warren on 021 109 9668.

Ōmokoroa Community Garden working bee. 911am. Hamurana Road, south entrance to Ōmokoroa Point School.

Ōmokoroa Playcentre is open from 9am-noon.

The first three visits are free. Contact omokoroa@playcentre.org.nz

Katikati Playcentre is open from 9am-noon. The first three visits are free. 6 Binnie Road. Contact katikati@playcentre.org.nz or 07 549 0211.

Whakamārama Community Library 9am-noon.

Visit whakalibrary.librarika.com or drop in to see our eclectic mix of books.

Whakamārama Playgroup Whakamārama Hall at 9.30am-noon. Contact Alison on 021 873 057.

Tai Chi 9.30-10.30am Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall.

Contact Trevor on 022 322 3410 or Anne 548 0763.

Katikati Parents Group 9.30-11am at SuperGrans, 14 Jocelyn St, Katikati. All parents and caregivers of children under two are welcome.

Starts back 12th Feb. Phone 549 4522.

Contact me today for a FREE Appraisal on your home or investment property.

Kaimai Real Estate Ltd MREINZ Licensed Agent REAA2008

Katikati Concert Band 7-9pm, Katikati Bowling Club. We welcome all ages and experience. Contact Mick 021 217 1780.

Bridge Club Ōmokoroa Community Church Hall in the evening. Call David Luxton on 548 0521.

Te Puna Playcentre 9.15am-noon. 225 Te Puna Road. Email tepuna@playcentre.org.nz or call 552 5253.

Mainly Music at Ōmokoroa Community Church from 9.15am. Email office@theocc.org.nz or call 548 2515.

Ōmokoroa Songsters Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall during school terms from 7-8:30pm. Contact Richard Francis 548 0046, Jean Taylor 548 2808, Heather Reynolds 548 1620.

Social Pool Night register names by 6.15pm for 6.30pm start. $5 entry fee. Contact Top Shot Bar, Te Puna on 552 6405.

Ōmokoroa Artists Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 9amnoon. Refreshments provided. Contact Jackie on 548 1518 or see Facebook page: Ōmokoroa Artists.

Tanya Dunham

20

Twilight tennis at Te Puna Tennis Club. 6pm start.

Phone Catherine 021 506855.

Aqua-aerobics 9am Ōmokoroa Hot Pools.

Sessions are $6 per person. Contact Kim on 027 246 8635.

Pukehina

07 562 0310 027 473 5572

After School Workshop 5-8 year olds 3.304.30pm Atrium Gallery @ the Black Sheep, 21 Plummers Point Rd. Contact: atriumgallerynz@gmail.com for further information.

Te Puna Playcentre 9.15am-noon. 225 Te Puna Road. Email tepuna@playcentre.org.nz or call 552 5253.

Katikati Embroidery Group 10am St Pius Church, Beach Road, Katikati. Phone Jenny 549 2151.

Adult Colouring-in at both Ōmokoroa Library and Pātuki Manawa. 10am. Refreshments provided. Free.

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

Justice of the Peace clinic 11am-1pm at Ōmokoroa Library & Service Centre, McDonnell Street.

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.

Line Dancing Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall. Beginners 1.30-3pm. Call Joce 552 0791 or 021 486 265.

Brick Club After school LEGO sessions in ŌmokoroaLibrary at 2.45 and 3.45. Limited spaces. Please book.

After School Workshop 9-13 year olds.

3.30-4.40pm Atrium Gallery @ the Black Sheep, 21 Plummers Point Rd. Contact: atriumgallerynz@gmail.com for further information.

Line Dancing Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall. $5 Beginners. 5.45-7pm. Call Shirley 548 1633.

Ōmokoroa Pahoia Sea Scouts North end of Ōmokoroa Domain 6.30-8.30pm term time. For more info contact omokoroapahoia@group.scouts.nz

Social Club Darts Top Shot Bar, Te Puna. Register by 6pm for 6.15 start. Oche fees apply. Contact 552 6405.

‘Move It’ Fitness at Whakamārama Hall.

7-7.45pm. $5 or $40 per term. Class runs for about 45 minutes. Phone Caryn 021 133 5390.

FRIDAYS

Friends of the Blade contact Colin Hewens on 552 6771 or via a direct message on the Facebook page: Friends of the Blade.

Aqua-aerobics 9am Ōmokoroa Hot Pools.

Sessions are $6 per person. Contact Kim on 027 246 8635.

Ōmokoroa Playcentre is open from 9am-noon.

The first three visits are free. Contact omokoroa@playcentre.org.nz

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

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

Sewing, Mending & Knitting with SuperGrans 10-11am at SuperGrans, 14 Jocelyn St, Katikati.

Sewing machine available. All welcome. Starts back 14th Feb. Phone 549 4522.

Cooking with SuperGrans Fortnightly on 13th/27th Feb and 12th/26th March. 10-11am at The Hub, Katikati. Creating cheap, easy, healthy meals. All welcome. Phone 549 4522.

Justice of the Peace clinic 10am-noon at Bethlehem Community Church, 138 Moffat Road.

Justice of the Peace clinic 10am-noon Katikati Community Centre, 45 Beach Road.

Ōmokoroa Friendship Club Ōmokoroa Community Church Hall 10am-12.15pm for $4.

Morning tea and lunch provided. Drop in or call Barbara Walls on 548 2899.

Mingles Over 50s Singles Club Running Bird Cafe at 11am. Email omokoroa.mingles@xtra.co.nz or just turn up for a coffee.

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 at 12.45pm. All enquires to Linley on 07 218 7003.

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

Katikati Plant & Produce Market A&P Showgrounds 3.30-6pm. Contact Pauline Van Rijen 549 2449.

SATURDAYS

Gentle hatha yoga classes 8.15-9.15 and 9.30-10.30am. Yoga for Every Body, 8a Vernon Rd, Te Puna. Contact Michelle on 021 044 1042.

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

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

Katikati Bowling Club Combined Roll-up.

1-3pm. Names in by 12.45pm please. All welcome.

Coaching available. 8 Park Rd, Katikati.

Phone 549 0103.

Ōmokoroa Tennis Club 2-5pm. Contact Club Captain Jeff Warren on 021 109 9668.

SUNDAYS

Waihī Beach Sunday Market 9am-1pm at Broadlands Block Reserve, 60 Wilson Road.

Produce, crafts, arts, food, coffee, clothing.

Jam session Waihī Beach Hotel, 60 Wilson Road.

4-7pm. Everyone welcome.

Decks & pergolas • Digger hire Garden boxes & planters Clive McKenney 021 048 2833 • sheryl.clive@xtra.co.nz

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY – MARCH Monthly meetings and one-off events

Sun 1st Pahoia School Give it a Go Triathlon at Ōmokoroa Domain. From 9.45am. Register via the link at www.pahoia.school.nz Sun 1st Spiritualist Centre Guest speakers each 1st Sunday at Katikati Community Centre, Beach Road. 1-2pm. $5.00 min entry. All welcome. Call Annie 021 149 2144.

Sun 1st Bay Rains concert fundraiser for Australia. The Barrel Room 2pm-9pm. $20 from eventfinda. Line up: LA Thompson, Louie Campbell, Soren Olsen and more.

Sun 1st Children's Day free party. Stories, dancing, magic, games. Katikati Community Centre, 45 Beach Road 3-5pm. Contact Gaye 027 274 8753.

Sun 1st Katikati Folk Open Mic 3pm every 1st Sunday of the month. Blackboard (open mic) session at Forta Leza, 2656 Main Highway, Aongatete. Also 1st March.

Sat 7th Sustainable Backyard Supermarket Ramble Be inspired to grow your own and feed your family. 9b Park Road, Katikati 10-11.30am.

Gold coin donation. Greenzpeace.org

Sat 14th Frocks on Bikes Ōmokoroa Ride Meet at Ōmokoroa Boat Club on the Esplanade at 9.30am to ride towards Tauranga. See Facebook.com/events/862025367553080

Sat 7th March Bay Rains concert fundraiser for Australia. Waihī Beach Hotel noon to midnight. $30 from eventfinda.

Sat 14th Katikati’s Ultimate CleanUp Challenge Teams of 5 complete set challenges.

Cash prizes. 10am-2pm. FB: Katch Katikati Inc. 10am-2pm at Katikati Community Centre.

Sat 7th March Queen & Bee Gees Tribute Concert 4.30-10pm at Western Avenue sports ground, Ōmokoroa. Tickets at eventfinda.co.nz Sports pavilion fundraiser.

Sat 7th Meet the Mediums 7-9pm Katikati Community Centre, Beach Road, Katikati. Tickets $10 available from the above venue. Limited numbers so be in quick. Call Annie 021 149 2144.

Sun 8 March Katikati Tramping Club Tūāhu Terereatukahia Hut - Wharawhara, 8am moderate, 6 hours. Contact leader Gail 027 759 1084 before 7.30pm Friday prior.

Mon 2nd 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. Also 6th April.

Sun 8th The Ōmokoroa & Districts Lions Market 9am-noon Western Ave carpark 2nd Sunday of the month. Contact Barbara Haseltine on 548 2255.

Tue 3rd Tech Support available at Ōmokoroa Library. Drop in the 1st Tuesday or book a slot.

Mon 9th Friends of Cooney Reserve working bee the 2nd Monday of the month 9.30am-noon.

Contact Jan on 548 2299 for more information.

Tue 3rd Women’s Textile Shed 1st Tuesday at Tauranga Arts & Craft Centre, Elizabeth Street, Tauranga. 9.30am-2.00pm, $15 per person. Kim at cuttingkim@gmail.com or 021 513 093.

Tue 3rd Companion Planting for bird & insect retention and learn the benefits of biodiversity. $85 in Whakamārama. www.plentypermaculture.co.nz Tue 3rd Book Buzz Come and share your favourite reads with other book lovers. (Theme selected at previous meeting). 10am on the 1st Tuesday at Pātuki Manawa.

Tue 3rd Ferments workshop Create your own ferments for keeping your microbiome alive and well. 45 Beach Road, Katikati, 6.30-8.30pm. $20 incl ingredients. ace@katikaticommunity.nz Wed 4th Aongatete Forest Project working bee. Top of Wright Road. 9am-12.30pm. 1st and 3rd Wednesday morning of the month. Visit aongateteforest.org/join Also 1st April.

Wed 4th Feb Growing food with SuperGrans.

10-11am at SuperGrans, 14 Jocelyn St, Katikati.

All welcome. Every 1st Wednesday. Phone 549 4522.

Thu 5th Ōmokoroa Peninsula Club 9.30am. 1st Thursday of the month at the Ōmokoroa Community Church (excl Dec/Jan). Contact Anne on 548 0566 or Margaret on 548 2737.

Thu 5th Ōmokoroa Environmental Managers Meeting Ōmokoroa Point School at 3.30pm.

Thu 5th Boomerang Bags Katikati sew reusable fabric community shopping bags.

Contact Jizzy on 549 2337 or txt Robyn on 021 1584038 to join or donate fabric. 1st and 3rd Thursday at Katikati College Fabric Tech Room from 3.30-5.30pm.

Sat 7th Crop Swap Gardeners, home bakers and food foragers swap and share high-quality local food. 1st Saturday of the month at SuperGrans, 14 Jocelyn St, Katikati. 07 549 4522 or info@supergranswbop.org.nz

Helen Patterson Phone Mob Email Website

Tue 10th Tech Support available at Waihī Beach Library. Drop in the 1st Tuesday or book a slot.

Wed 11th Ōmokoroa & Districts Lions Club 6pm at Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall on the 2nd Wednesday of the month. Contact Keith and Rosemary Searle on 548 2117.

Wed 11th Alchemy Poetry at the Black Sheep, Plummers Point Road from 6pm-8pm. Read your own work or that of a published poet. 2nd Wednesday. Call 571 8722 or 021 145 5810.

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

Thu 12th Ōmokoroa Business Network meeting. 9am on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. Contact omokoroabusinessnetwork@gmail.com for details.

Thu 12th Katikati Genealogy Group meets on the 2nd Thursday at the Presbyterian Church Hall, 1 Mulgan Street at 1.30pm. $5. New members welcome. Contact Jeanette 027 348 3259.

Fri 13th Family Planning appointments 101pm and drop-in 1.30-4pm. To book call 578 8539. Katikati Midwives Rooms, 14 Jocelyn Street. Every 2nd Friday. See familyplanning.org.nz Fri 13th Bethlehem Night Market every 2nd Friday from 5.30-8.30pm at Bethlehem Hall.

Facebook: cnmbethlehem or contact Jen on 021 672 281 cnmbethlehem@gmail.com.

Sat 14th Back to Basics Herbal Medicine Foraging course to learn what plants will help with everyday health. 69 Hume Road, Katikati.

10am-3pm. $55. ace@katikaticommunity.nz Sat 14th March Bay Rains concert fundraiser for Australia.The Black Sheep Restaurant.

Noon to midnight $30 from eventfinda.

Sat 21st Te Puna School Country Fair Fun activities for all, food and drinks, games and stalls. 9.30am-1.30pm.

Sat 22nd Katikati Lions Garage Sale 8-11am behind Caltex Service Station, Main Road, Katikati. Every 4th Saturday.

Sun 22nd Superhero Walk Coronation Park, Mt Maunganui. All funds to Waipuna Hospice.

Register at www.waipunahopsice.org.nz/superhero.

Sun 22nd Poets’ Corner. 11am-noon every fourth Sunday at Summerset Retirement Village.

Park Road, Katikati. Read, listen, learn different forms of poetry $2. Call Gaye 577 1753 or 027 274 8753.

Sun 15th Soap-making, creams & ointments workshop Create your own with an experienced medical herbalist. Use yourself or give as gifts. $85. ace@katikaticommunity.nz

Mon 23rd Community Composting pilot facility to promote backyard composting techniques. 3-8pm at Pātuki Manawa. Free. poneil578@gmail.com

Sun 15th Sunday Scribblers 11am-12.30pm.

Working on memoirs. Every 3rd Sunday.

Summerset Retirement Village, Park Road, Katikati. Ph Gaye 577 1753 or 027 274 8753.

Tue 24th Trash to Flash Looking at waste management with a creative eye. $17 at 45 Beach Road. 6.30-8.30pm. ace@katikaticommunity.nz

Sun 15th Katikati Folk Club Jam sessions 5pm every 3rd Sunday. Informal jam sessions at the Forta Leza, 2656 State Highway 2, Aongatete.

Thu 26th Ōmokoroa Business Network meeting. 9am on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. Contact omokoroabusinessnetwork@gmail.com for details.

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

Mon 16th Bethlehem/Te Puna Lions Club at Te Puna Community Centre Hall, Tangitū Road, Te Puna (Behind the Tennis Courts). 1st and 3rd Monday evenings from 6pm. Contact Colin 576 9110.

Tue 17th Tech Support available at Katikati Library every 3rd Tuesday. Drop-in or book a slot.

Thu 26th Probus Club of Ōmokoroa 9.30amnoon at Ōmokoroa Settlers' Hall every 4th Thursday of the month. Contact Jean 548 2239 or Carol on 863 7292.

Fri 27th Family Planning appointments 101pm 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

Tue 17th Book Buzz Come and share your favourite reads with other book lovers. (Theme selected at previous meeting). 10am every 3rd Tuesday at Ōmokoroa Library.

Fri 27th-Sun 5th April Neighbours Day Aotearoa. Connect with your neighbours and celebrate your neighbourhood. www.neighboursday.org

Tue 17th DIY Personal Care Products Create non-toxic deodorant, moisturiser and lip balm. $23 incl ingredients. 45 Beach Road, Katikati.

6.30-8.30pm. ace@katikaticommunity.nz

Sat 28th Earth Hour Switch off in solidarity with global efforts. 8.30pm.

Wed 18th 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 18th Ōmokoroa Acoustic Jam Ōmokoroa Boat Club 7pm. Play, sing, enjoy. Gold coin donation. Refreshments available. Every 3rd Wednesday. Contact Heather 548 1620 or Trish 548 0753.

Sat 14th Katikati Lions Moggies Market Katikati War Memorial Hall from 8am. Every 2nd Saturday. Contact Alan 027 279 1096 (outside) or Sharon 022 318 0196 (inside).

Sat 14th Fabric & Craft Destash Katikati Memorial Hall 9am-1pm. BYO bags. Free. Book your space at rcameron@katikaticollege.school.nz

Fri 20th Thank Whaka It’s Friday every 3rd Friday from 6-9 pm. All welcome. Bring your dinner and meet the community. Whakamārama Hall.

07 548 0418 0274 803 803 helen@easternpayrollsolutions.co.nz www.easternpayrollsolutions.co.nz

Sat 21th Katikati Artisan Market 9am-1pm Chrome Cafe, 3 Wharawhara Road, Katikati.

Every 3rd Saturday.

Sun 15th Car Boot Sale at the Lighthouse Cafe, 10 Lockington Road, Aongatete. Every 3rd Sunday 8am-12.30pm. $5 per car. Call Nancy 022 092 1316.

Thu 19th Boomerang Bags Katikati sew reusable fabric community shopping bags.

Contact Jizzy on 549 2337 or txt Robyn on 021 1584038 to join or donate fabric. 1st and 3rd Thursday at Katikati College Fabric Tech Room from 3.30-5.30pm.

Outsourced payroll, on-site solutions, and problem-solving using various payroll software

lizardnews.net

Sat 28th Hello Future District Fun fair-style activities relating to key topics Council wish to have a chat about, food stalls, kids activities and community groups. Followed by The Lion King

by Nightowl Cinema. From 4pm at Uretara Domain, Katikati.

Sun 29th Atrium Art & Artisan Fair 11am-3pm last Sunday monthly. Black Sheep, 21 Plummers Point Road. Locally Handmade Art & Wares. To book, contact aaafair17@gmail.com Tue 31st Make your own household cleaners from your kitchen pantry. $20 incl ingredients.

6.30-8.30pm at 45 Beach Road, Katikati. ace@katikaticommunity.nz Fri 3rd April Hello Future District Fun fairstyle activities relating to key topics Council wish to have a chat about, food stalls, kids activities and community groups. Followed by The Hunt for the Wilderpeople by Nightowl Cinema. From 4pm at Māramatanga Park, Te Puna.

Find us on

Kitchens • Laundries • Vanities • Wardrobes • Custom cabinetry March 2020 | Lizard News |

21

lizardnews.net

Scott becomes one of the Locals

Disc golf mokoroa pharmacist Fiona Menzies won the amateur women’s division at last month’s disc golf tournament in Rotorua, held on the 15th/16th on February. “Kaching Ming” scored herself a boat stereo as a prize, finishing fourth overall out of seven women.

The New Zealand Nationals were held in Dunedin on 25th/26th January, where Ming won the amateur women’s division - finishing third overall, out of 13 women.

The frisbee sport has been played in New Zealand for 40 years. Players throw a disc from a tee area, before throwing again from the landing position until the target is reached to complete the hole.

Fiona enjoyed disc golf while at university in Dunedin and was runner-up in the Grand Masters section at the world championships in the United States in 2008. See discgolf.co.nz

Ō

Scott Limbrick and Crystal Jefferis.

By Matthew Farrell cott Limbrick brings 35 years of hospitality experience to Ōmokoroa as the chef of the recently opened Locals Bar and Eatery.

He still owns the Billfish Cafe and Anchor Cafe at Westhaven Marina by Auckland’s Harbour Bridge, but recently sold his wood-fired pizza place, GGs in West Auckland to make a move to the peninsula paradise.

His kids have been here a couple of years and his aunt Bernie in Te Puna a few years longer. After three or four years of visiting family at Christmas, he saw a job for a chef advertised and quickly found himself project managing the restaurant’s completion.

“Four weeks after dealing with

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builders, plumbers, refrigeration, various suppliers, and hiring staff - I was back in the kitchen, opening the weekend after Christmas. It’s great for locals to have a casual place to pop in with the kids or the dog for a drink and a nibble before going on their merry way,” Scott says.

He says the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with people loving the food, friendly staff and sunny location. Crystal Jefferis and Shanneke Vazey are the bar managers, with five bar staff and four kitchen staff hired locally.

“It’s a work in progress. There is still a lot happening for us with a kids' area coming soon, additional furniture and some promotions, sports games and eventually some acoustic music.

“We have started with a simple, affordable menu of pub grub - burgers, fish and chips, nachos - and two or three weekly specials. We want people to come here once or twice a week, not per month or year. It’s a developing menu and bar offering, which we will keep working on.

Even our tap beers are not set in stone.

“I have a huge repertoire of food with 14 years specialising in seafood in the Islands, the UK, on cruise ships and around Australia and New Zealand.”

Scott says he hopes the place works for Ōmokoroa and the surrounding area and is very conscious of what locals want and expect.

The Locals Bar and Eatery is open noon until late, Tuesday to Sunday, with food until 9pm.

Omokoroa

Another win for Fiona, this time in Rotorua.

PHOTO: Darryl Switalla.

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| Lizard News | March 2020

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lizardnews.net

New pool ruler

By Matthew Farrell

here’s a new name on the Ōmokoroa Boat Club pool championship trophies, with Steve Thacker taking out both the singles and doubles crowns last month.

Four pairs contested the doubles, with Gordon Thomas and Steve Thacker beating former champ Warwick White and his teammate Rodger Green in their semi, while Matthew and Liz Farrell beat Michael and Paula McMann.

Gordon and Steve then won the

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best of three-frame final, 2-0.

It was a flawless victory in the singles, with Steve winning all five frames against his round-robin opponents on Sunday 23rd February overcoming Gordon, Warwick, Rodger, Matthew and Andrew Duffy.

Everyone else notched a couple of wins on the day, and most frames came down to the black or final colour.

The upcoming darts competition is open to members only from 10am on Sunday 22nd March. Entry is $10, with proceeds going to support the Ōmokoroa-Pahoia Sea Scouts.

Introducing Education Angels In Home Childcare

hy choose Education Angels In Home Childcare as your provider for care for your family?

There are a number of early education providers in the Bay of Plenty region, all offering a positive environment for your child, whether you choose a preschool, Playcenter or a home-based environment, every family is different, so the service needs to suit the requirements of the child, parent and the family as a whole. Education Angels is a provider of home-based childcare with different options to suit each family.

Angie and David, owner-managers at Education Angels, explain that “small group childcare in a nurturing, natural and flexible home-based learning environment, allows your child to develop close relationships. This provides the foundation on which we build our rela-

Advertorial

Doubles winners (L-R) Gordon Thomas and Steve Thacker.

tionships and learn about ourselves, others and the environment. For children to learn and grow and rise to their full potential, they need to feel safe and secure with a strong sense of belonging.”

Key benefits of home-based childcare • Your child’s individual interests and strengths can be closely followed based on small group sizes.

• Your child can build a secure attachment with one person based on the 1:4 ratio.

• Your child’s usual home routine can be followed, such as their sleep and mealtimes.

• There is greater flexibility in the hours of care to help accommodate your needs – this may be particularly helpful for shift workers or people with particularly early or late starts.

• In home childcare works well for mixed-aged families, as your baby and four-year-old child can be cared for together. Also, if you have an under five and an over five your caregiver could care for your school-aged child too after school.

• Learning is catered to your child’s needs due to the small group ratios, rather than trying to meet the needs of a large group of children.

• Your child can enjoy everyday childhood experiences like going out for spontaneous walks and outings, baking, collecting the mail, hanging out washing etc.

• Your child can socialize and interact with the community and music groups, playgroups during the week.

• You can choose an Educator that fits with you and your lifestyle.

• With home-based childcare, you can have a family member or friend to care for your child with the support of Education Angels.

With so many childcare options available it is a daunting task to pick the best option for your family, but home-based childcare is a growing sector that is becoming increasingly popular, especially for younger children.

Education Angels offers high-quality home-based childcare and education for both part-time and full-time primary care options. Your family will be matched to a home-based Educator that suits your needs so you can enjoy peace of mind that your child will be happy, stimulated and well looked after. Give Shirley a call at Education Angels and she can offer you advice on what might suit you and your child's needs.

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March 2020 | Lizard News |

23

lizardnews.net

Bushfire fundraiser exhibition his month the Atrium Gallery is hosting a group exhibition called the ‘Bushfire Fundraiser Exhibi-

T

tion’.

“The Black Sheep Restaurant is holding a 12-hour fundraising music event on the 14th March to help the victims of the bushfires in Australia so we decided it would be a good idea to hold an exhibition to help their efforts,” says Birgitt Shannon, the Gallery Coordinator. “All entry fees and commission from the sale of artwork will be added to the money the Black Sheep raise”.

Eighteen local artists are participating in the exhibition and there are over forty pieces of work that include paintings, mixed media, photography, pottery

and much more.

The exhibition started on the 26th February and finishes on the 28th March. It is open Wednesday to Sunday from 11am at 21 Plummers Point Road, Whakamārama. Article supplied.

A selection of art and sculpture available at Atrium Gallery this month. PHOTOS: Supplied.

Community events to help shape Western Bay’s future rab the family, the popcorn, the picnic blanket and get ready to have a chat about what you think the Western Bay should look like in the future.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council is coming to a neighbourhood near you, with a trio of whānau-friendly events at locations across the District next month – Jubilee Park, Te Puke (27th March), Katikati’s Uretara Domain (28th March), and Māramatanga Park in Te Puna (3rd April). All events start at 4pm and kick off with a free children’s show.

The Hello Future District Fun Day

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events feature fun fair-style activities relating to key topics Council wish to have a chat about, food stalls from local vendors and community groups, and just for the kids, Mr Lam Sam’s Musical Mayhem Show.

Council has also teamed up with Night Owl Cinema to end the night in style with a movie under the stars at each location.

Jubilee Park will have the new adaptation of Aladdin, The Lion King (2019) will be at Uretara Domain and Hunt for the Wilderpeople at Māramatanga Park.

“You will be making the effort to see us and have a chat, so the least we can do is

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say thank you with an event that will bring residents together to share ideas enjoy some delicious food and take in an outdoor movie,” says Western Bay Mayor Garry Webber.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming you, your family and friends at one of our three Hello Future District Fun Day events.”

Garry says getting out and meeting the community in their backyards is important to understand what matters to residents, and what Council should prioritise in its next Long Term Plan.

“We want to know what the commu-

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nity’s thoughts are, so we’re bringing the conversation to them across the District with fun free events for all ages to find out what you think.

“Hearing from as many residents as possible helps us plan for the next 10 years.”

The events are the first step in Council’s three-part engagement process. The second step will focus on what will be included in the upcoming Long Term Plan.

For more information on these events head to Council’s Facebook page – facebook.com/westernbaycouncil.

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| Lizard News | March 2020

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Growing community, growing club es, summer sports are still running, and most fields are very brown and hard, but that hasn’t stopped Ōmokoroa Football Club getting ready for an exciting new year.

Preparations behind the scenes by committee members have readied the club for ongoing success over the coming years. Excited by the Ōmokoroa Sports Pavilion build’s progress, the club is gearing up for another big season, with player numbers and teams forecast to be even higher than last year.

“We know from the increasing numbers of our local school rolls that there are more families moving into the area, and believe that will mean more registrations than previous years.

“2019 saw us enter a record number of teams into WAIBOP Competitions, as well as local tournaments…we hope that this trend continues, ” says Club president Ben Bell.

A huge part of the club’s recent success falls at the feet of its coaches and support staff.

“Our committee members have been plugging away over

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the off-season, happy to carry the momentum of last season into this year, and the support of our wider club family in 2019 - both with regards to coaching and team management - was amazing, and because of that, our club is going into the new season on a high.

“Being a volunteer-led club means our success is all due to the members and their work – it’s a great sustainable grassroots approach”.

Registrations this year opened online in February with a special incentive – a club hoodie for early registered players.

“Thanks to a bunch of local businesses – like the Lizard News – the club is able to offer lucky players a piece of memorabilia for the 2020 season. We can’t wait to get a club photo of everyone in our colours in front of the new Pavilion. It will be a watershed moment for the club.”

Registrations for the 2020 season, and further information about Ōmokoroa Football Club, can be found online at http://omokoroafc.com Article supplied.

The 2020 hoodie will be available to those who register early - get in before 20th March. PHOTO: Supplied.

$100,000 fund opens for community projects estern Bay of Plenty District Council invites community organisations to bid for a slice of the $100,000 Facilities in the Community

W

WEB | PRINT | DIGITAL

WWW.SHOTBRO.COM 021 973394

Fund.

Applications are open for the biennial fund that is specifically for recreational projects that need an injection of capital.

The Facilities in the Community Fund was set up by Council in 2001 to provide much-needed capital to community organisations struggling to get enough money to fund important recreation and leisure projects.

Continued population growth across the District has

increased the need for recreational facilities to meet the changing nature of communities.

The fund is targeted for recreational facilities that are for public use on non-public land. Council may fund up to 50 per cent of the project’s capital cost and applications must be for facilities valued over $10,000. The fund opens for applications every two years.

Examples of funding in the past are: the extension of the Te Puna Community Library; a fitness trail around the Te Puke School rugby field; a depot for the Katikati Red Cross emergency equipment; new turf for the Whakamārama School hardcourt; shade shelters for the WaihīBeach RSA Memorial; basketball and vol-

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leyball facilities for Te Rereatukahia Marae in Bowentown.

If your organisation is planning to develop a recreational facility you may be eligible for funding from this fund.

For application eligibility, criteria and details visit westernbay.govt.nz/community/grants-and-funding Alternatively, application forms and guidelines are available from our Customer Services team on 07 571 8008 or any of our Library and Service Centres at.

Completed application forms must be received by 4pm, 9th April.

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07 548 1343 omokoroa@playcentre.org.nz March 2020 | Lizard News |

25

An English garden in Whakamārama

lizardnews.net

Advertorial

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weetPea & Jasmine is a florist business established in 2014, sitting in the hills of Whakamārama. It focuses it’s business on local bouquet deliveries within the area from Te Puna to Katikati, creating wedding flowers and installations plus teaching classes in their flower school.

Shontelle Bayer is the owner and creative director of SweetPea & Jasmine. Originally from New Zealand, she started her profession after finishing high school, working in Auckland and then Tauranga.

Shontelle travelled to Australia and worked in Melbourne for three years before heading to the heart of London. There she was lucky enough to work for Jane Packer at her Selfridges branch on Oxford Street where she was employed for five years. After the first year was asked to become the manager of the Selfridges branch. With Jane Packer, she gained experience working with high profile clients, helped with contracts, working on movie sets, photoshoots and teaching at her flower school. After leaving Jane Packer, Shontelle had an interest in finding a florist role in a wedding and event team and found a position with Paula Pryke. She became part of a team helping to create and install celebrity weddings and red carpet events throughout the UK and Europe.

In 2010, Shontelle started freelancing for both Jane Packer, Paula Pryke and many other well-known florists in London. During this time Jane Packer contacted Shontelle to help create the victory bouquets for the medal winners at the London Olympics, this was a major highlight of her career.

Shontelle, with her husband and two children, then moved to New Zealand at the end of 2013. They bought a large property in Whakamārama, and with the land decided to try growing her own flowers. She found that the flower wholesalers had a limited choice of flowers so she started growing the English flowers that she enjoyed using in the UK.

All the beautiful seedlings grew into wonderful fresh amazing flowers that SweetPea & Jasmine use in their work. They like to use their own flowers and source from local growers within the area surrounding Whakamārama.

SweetPea & Jasmine is a successful business creating and installing weddings from October through to May then focussing on the Flower School classes from May through to September.

They also have a flower delivery service within the area, with flowers freshly picked the day before and many clients rave about how beautiful and naturally the flowers are styled and how well they last.

Please do not hesitate to contact Shontelle regarding any floral requirements large or small, she is professional and focused on creating beautifully styled flowers for any occasion.

Power struggle

By Matthew Farrell teps are being taken to set up an Ōmokoroa Residents and Ratepayers Association. A leading figure alongside Bruce McCabe is ex-District Councillor, John Palmer.

Another speaking at a well-attended meeting at Ōmokoroa Boat Club last month was current Councillor Margaret Murray Benge, who is neither an Ōmokoroa resident nor ratepayer and denies any conflict of interest with being an elected member.

An apparent top priority was undergrounding power on a 700m section of Ōmokoroa Road with no sea view, which needs poles for street lights.

Neither the Community Board or Council supported undergrounding, with both voting it was poor value for ratepayers at an additional cost of $700,000.

Substantial portions of Ōmokoroa Road have power poles, including Tralee Street to The Esplanade. Private developers have funded other sections of undergrounding.

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| Lizard news | March 2020

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Cycleway link closed Wairoa Bridge closures for underpass build A emporary closure of a section of the Ōmokoroa to Tauranga cycleway will start on Monday 2nd March between the end of Jess Road and Newnham Road.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council is building a new railway underpass and ramp to ensure users’ safety as they pass under the railway.

This link will be closed for up to six weeks and there is no detour.

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Council apologises for the inconvenience and asks that the public respect the signs and barriers around the construction site.

All other trail sections remain open.

For further information about the cycle way go here: https://www.westernbay.govt.nz/recreation/cycleways/ omokoroa-to-tauranga-cycleway Article supplied.

s we went to press, the Wairoa River Bridge on State Highway 2 was to be closed overnight on Tuesday 3rd March, from 10.30pm5.30am.

It was the second of seven planned closures, from February to April, to allow Western Bay of Plenty District Council to install sections of the cycleway extension on the bridge.

Transport Agency Bay of Plenty System Manager, Rob Campbell, says these are significant closures and works are being carried out overnight to minimise disruption.

“We encourage people to plan, allow extra time, or consider delaying unnecessary travel where possible,” he says.

During the full closures the following

local road detours will be in place: Northbound motorists from Tauranga will need to take the signposted detour from SH2 in Bethlehem via Moffat Road and Cambridge Road, onto SH29 before connecting with Poripori Road, onto Crawford Road through to Wairoa Road and then back onto SH2.

Southbound motorists will need to take Wairoa Road before connecting with Crawford Road, through to Poripori Road and then onto SH29.

The detour route isn’t suitable for heavy trucks or wide loads.

The next closures are planned for Monday 16th and Tuesday 17th March.

Remaining closure dates will be released as they are confirmed with Council’s contractor.

The cycleway extension is one of the final stages of the Ōmokoroa to Tauranga Cycleway. IMAGE: Supplied.

By Oscar Stewart

Fruit and veges to your door

s of last month, My Greengrocer will be delivering to Ōmokoroa every Wednesday. You may know us from our location at The Fresh Market in the busy Gate Pā shopping centre.

Our owner-operator David Stewart be-

A

came a greengrocer when he purchased his first store in Orewa in 1978. Following a move to Tauranga in 1987, he started K-Market in 11th Ave which will have been a familiar fruit and vege stop for many long-time Tauranga residents. This store was a huge success and has now become The Fresh Market in

Gate Pā.

My Greengrocer is an extension of The Fresh Market, perfect for customers who can’t travel to Gate Pā or just prefer the convenience of shopping online.

Delivery days will be Wednesday only.

Where this day falls on a Public Holiday your order will be delivered the next

Do you have any overseas income?

e.g UK Pension or Overseas Rental Income

OMOKOROA - KATIKATI Renovations, Re-paints, & Roofs

For a Free Quote Call Paul 021 977 346 or 07 549 0342 /PKsPaintingNZ

• Trimming and Pruning • Chipping • Tree Removal • Qualified and Experienced Arborist • Competitive Rates • Locally owned and Operated Phone and book a free quote

Willie Smith - 027 248 4776

Do you know the NZ Tax obligations and should you be filing a tax return?

Why don’t you come and have a chat!

Ph: 548 2667 info@accounting-services.co.nz

working day. The cut-off time for orders is 10am on the day of delivery. Shipping costs are $5 per delivery or free if the order is over $100.

Call us on 07 578 6790, email orders@mygreengrocer.co.nz or visit https://mygreengrocer.co.nz/ Article supplied.

Pre-Design Site Surveys Boundary Determinations Building Setting Out Council Certifications Subdivision & Engineering Modern Equipment – Superior Service

Phone 021 0267 1168 (Grant) grunta57@gmail.com www.landmarine.co.nz

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Installation Services Quality Rangehood Installations at competitive prices!

All brands - New homes & kitchen renovations Brent Jenkins M: 027 548 1590 E: brent@thelonerangehood.co.nz

SPECIALISTS LIMITED Your local, owner operated Licensed Certifying Plumber & Gasfitter • Superb Service • Competitive Prices • Free Quotes Call John on 0800 426 345 or 027 951 6290 Email: john@gasplumbing.co.nz March 2020 | Lizard News |

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Who’s your hero?

Some great superhero fancy dress on display. PHOTOS: Supplied.

uperheroes from all over the Bay will dust off their masks and capes to answer the beckoning call from Waipuna Hospice, for all superheroes in the community to walk in honour, remember and celebrate the heroes in our lives, past and present. By signing up to register for the Waipuna Hospice Super Hero Walk/Run you will be a hero yourself, as you help raise much-needed funds to care for people in our community facing a life-limiting illness and support for their families.

Chris Conn registered for the Waipuna Hospice Super Hero Walk/Run last year in memory of her husband Martin. Martin was diagnosed with cancer in 2013

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and after two years of care and support from Waipuna Hospice, he died in 2015.

Chris says, “If it hadn’t been for Waipuna Hospice I wouldn’t have got through it, that’s why my chosen superhero was Waipuna Hospice doctors, nurses and staff. They’re absolutely amazing.” The part that Chris enjoyed the most was knowing that she was walking in memory of Martin and everyone else. “I would recommend people to register if they are looking for a fun day out and wanting to walk for a purpose.”

Everyone knows Chris as the “dress-up queen” as she donned her most regal attire and dressed up as the queen for Waipuna Hospice movie fundraiser

Chris Conn at last year’s event.

Downton Abbey. What whacky creation will she have for the Super Hero Walk/Run this year? “I thought about dressing up as the queen, but no – she’s not my hero! I now have some photos of Waipuna Hospice staff so they may find themselves on my t-shirt as well… who knows?” said Chris.

In our lives, each of us has that someone who holds a special place in our hearts and is looked to as a ‘hero’. The Waipuna Hospice Super Hero Walk/Run encourages people to embrace their “Super Hero” by celebrating and acknowledging the heroes in their lives, and walking or running in celebration and remembrance of them. Sunday 22nd

March will be an eventful day and a meaningful and fun way to celebrate life and make the most of every day! In the words of Batman, “you only have your thoughts and dreams ahead of you. You are someone. You mean something.” Life is special.

Tickets are $15 for an individual (over 18years), $10 for members, or come as a group of five individuals for the discounted price of $60. Children (under 18yrs) – are free to participate if accompanied by a paying adult (18 years or over). A family fun event for all ages.

Register now at www.waipunahopsice.org.nz/superhero Article suppled.

ATHENREE HOMESTEAD & STATION

Sunday 15th March from 12pm to 2.30pm

We are excited to be hosting Henry’s Hot Rod Shop and Katikati Classic, Vintage and Modern car show at the Athenree Homestead on

There is a maximum number of up to 40 cars for the show. If you are interested in displaying your car, please contact Mark on 021 511 077.

Admission is by gold coin donation, with all proceeds going towards the completion of renovations to the house.

Help us decide which two cars are the winners of the show.

The house and station will be open with a sausage sizzle and raffle.

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Rowing from strength to strength he sport of rowing is going from strength to strength at Ōtūmoetai College. The rowing team has recently purchased a new doubles boat with the help of the Lions Foundation, and are actively fund-raising for a second one at the moment.

The new boat has been named Kōpurererua after the Kōpurererua River; a significant source of water and life.

At a blessing at the school marae on 17th February, kaumātua Koro Tūmatawhao Pearson explained the significance of this name and its origins of being created by Taurikura whose thrashing tail carved the river’s bends. He also explained that the water that filled the river came from two sources.

Similarly, being powered by two rowers, this waka will bring together the mana of two energies into one exciting

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Carrying Kōpurererua into the wharenui.

By Taryn Johnson of Maths Mattas

dar to give the rowers opportunities to build their skills for the main event.

We wish them well in their preparations for Twizel and look forward to hearing stories of the successes of Kōpurererua and its crew.

Article supplied.

Kaumātua Koro Tūmatawhao Pearson explains the significance of Kōpurererua during the blessing. PHOTOS: Supplied.

Grow your brain

he brain is like a muscle; you can exercise it to make it stronger. Intelligence is like physical fitness; it increases in response to exercise. Contrary to what many people believe, you can change how intelligent you are and dramatically improve your brain function. Brain scans done before and after doing certain things show clearly that the brain grows new connections. In other words, people became more intelligent when they made habits of learning, a good

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display of strength, power, and representation of Ōtūmoetai College.

Rowing has been part of the school’s extra-curricular programme since 1972, with 48 rowers taking part in the sport in the mid-2000s.

The current group of 12 rowers has been training hard over the summer break at a Mangakino rowing camp. The early starts and long hours of training put in by both crews and coaches over recent months will give them the best possible chance of success at the upcoming National Secondary Schools Championships (also known as the Maadi Cup), which will take place in Twizel at the end of March.

This big occasion is the highlight of the rowing season, with club regattas and the North Island Club Champs being important events in the rowing season’s calen-

diet, exercise, social connection and “ANT” killing*.

Whether you are 9 or 99, always be learning. It could be a hobby, a new skill or a new career. Life, including the internet, provides endless opportunities for learning which grows new connections in your brain. It can be as simple as doing things a different way. For example, try cleaning your teeth with the “other” hand, folding your arms the opposite way or going to work a different way.

Simple, whole foods based on meat and vegetables avoiding sugar and processed food support your brain.

Your brain needs protein. If we eat, hydrate, exercise

and sleep properly, 90% of our problems would stop being problems. I once set a homework task of “have a good breakfast”. After threatening detention for some who took a while to “do their homework”, the habit of having breakfast revolutionised their school experience.

Exercise doesn’t have to be marathon training but it does have to be regular. We know the theory, it’s the practising that is the challenge. Start small, then increment and maintain to grow your brain!

Social connections need to be positive, healthy and maintained.

*ANT killing- this is very powerful. Most of us can benefit by being more aware of the power of our thoughts.

ANTs are “automatic negative thoughts” and they need to be squashed not entertained.

4WD BRUSH CUTTING & RIDE ON MOWING SERVICES

A musical journey through time….

21st

March

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL RIDE ON MOWING

Proudly supporting:

GIG FOR GUIDE DOGS

Tickets

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$15.00 Tickets include: Tea, coffee, nibbles and ticket prizes on the night. (sales are limited)

Raffle tickets are also available with all proceeds going to Blind Low Vision NZ Guide Dogs

Come for a play date with your little ones and discover why Whakamarama Kindergarten is so well loved.

Whether it’s our active learning in nature’s playground with big outdoor areas and bush walks, or our amazing 100% degree qualified teachers, we know you and your tamariki will find plenty to love at Whakamarama Kindergarten!

Pop in for a cuppa and meet the Whakamarama team!

Call 07 552 6631 or email whakamarama@ikindergartens.nz

Tickets can be purchased from: Katikopy, Applianceplus, The Arts Junction

Saturday 21st March, doors open 6.30pm for 7pm, The Arts Junction, Katikati Our thanks to sponsors:

Port of Tauranga, Café Viva, KatiKopy & Print, Appliance Plus, Tip Top, Whittakers, BNZ, Office Max Tauranga, Talisman Hotel, Super Liquor, Tauranga, Te Puna, Katikati & Papamoa Village Vets, Countdown Katikati

Special thanks also to Katikati’s own BILLY IDLE

March 2020 | Lizard News |

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Te Puna school’s annual Country Fair e Puna School is gearing up for another Country Fair to be held on Saturday, 21st March. This longstanding event is the school’s major fundraiser every year and has become a much-anticipated event for many Bay of Plenty locals.

The Country Fair is a tradition that many past and present members of the community know and love so well. This year you’ll see plenty of new additions including a fantastic new dunk tank, awesome country games, excavator rides and the cutest caravan photo booth ever.

There are a huge number of other nostalgic activities, many of which are run by the students. “We try to encourage

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our students to be part of the Country Fair. It gives them the opportunity to be creative with their minds and understand the basics of enterprise,” says Sarah Pinkerton of the PTA. Expect to see pony and tractor rides, book fair, plant sales, gumboot throwing, and some incredible raffles all of which have been kindly donated by the local community.

This year, the Country Fair is opening the silent auctions early through an online bidding site. This means anyone can bid on the auctions even if they are unable to attend. “We have some incredible auctions up for grabs including experience packages, restaurant vouchers, beauty vouchers, grocery

vouchers, the list goes on,” says Sarah.

The auctions can be viewed online at www.32auctions.com/TPCountryFair20 20 and will open for bidding on 9th March and will close at midday on the day of the fair.

Te Puna School is continuing to make the Country Fair more sustainable and provide healthier food options for all those that come along. Smoothies, salads, fresh healthy burgers and juices will all be on offer to purchase. All of the produce has been sourced locally and we’ve had so much of it donated including, eggs, berries, meat and fruit.

The event relies hugely on the generosity of the community. Last year the

school managed to raise funds that went towards upgrading various school facilities and acquiring new sports and technology equipment for the students. Next year, Te Puna School celebrates it’s 125th Jubilee and is hoping to raise enough funds to go towards a beautification project to upgrade some of the school buildings and outdoor environments.

Te Puna School is incredibly thankful to everyone who has been part of the Country Fair over the years and can’t wait to continue this tradition for many years to come.

Be sure to join in the fun on Saturday, 21st March from 9.30am – 1.30pm.

Article supplied.

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| Lizard News | March 2020

CONTACT ANDRE NOW

021 519 575 admin@gavinsbop.co.nz

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All calm for kayaking

By Liz Farrell mokoroa Pahoia Sea Scouts enjoyed a perfect evening out on the harbour on Thursday 20th February. High tide doesn’t always coincide with the scout session, and so the kids and parents took full advantage of the warm weather and flat water to take the kayaks out around the peninsula. After hauling the boats out for a thorough wash, most hopped back in the water for a swim before rinsing themselves down.

Scouts is open to 11 to 14-year-old boys and girls and they meet every Thursday in term time from 6.30-8.30pm.

Feel free to turn up at the scout shed at the north end of Ōmokoroa Domain and try three free sessions. Parent helpers are welcome as well as adults wanting to take on a leadership role.

If you would like further information, please email Scout leader Steve on omokoroapahoia@group.scouts.nz

Ō

By Clare Green

A beautiful flat harbour for kayaking and as much fun cleaning off afterwards. PHOTOS: Liz Farrell.

Whakamārama Hall update

New Booking Officer The Hall Committee wish to thank Debbie Allan for her dedicated and thorough work as booking officer. She has put a lot of effort into giving us a presence on social media and developed systems to ensure the safety of the hall and its users are maintained.

Deb and her family are going on a big adventure around Australia in April and so she has passed the reins on to another great passionate local, Suaree Borell.

Thank you, Deb and welcome Suaree.

OWENS FLOORING For Flooring Sales and Installation Carpet, Vinyl, Woods & Laminate Planking And Polished Concrete Flooring

Harvest Festival “Celebrating Home Grown & Home Made”. Saturday, 2nd May. Mark the date in your calendar. This is an afternoon to celebrate and show off your home-grown produce, chutneys, jams, pickles. A family-friendly afternoon with a guest speaker, great prizes, children’s games, a colouring-in competition, and delicious afternoon tea available. More details next month.

Dates to Remember TWIF, 20th March. A celebration night / pot-luck dinner to mark the end of the Stage 1 project.

Order now for your next project • Buy direct from the factory located in Omokoroa.

• Wide range of pavers on display.

• Great selection of sizes, textures and colours to suit your needs.

• Residential and commercial.

• 10 years in Tauranga.

Hall Alterations The Hall Committee wish to extend a huge thank you to the following generous sponsors of the work at the hall who have either donated or heavily discounted materials and labour; Ōmokoroa ITM, Mason Roofing, Steel & Tube, NZ Windows, T&K Services, Endless Fencing, Whakamārama Earthworks, and Grayson Dales Electrical.

Thank you also to the community members who have donated a total of $2080 which has been used to purchase building materials.

We still need help. In addition to (or

Help bring back our native birds Join the Friends of The Blade volunteers and adopt a trap line.

CALL COLIN ON 07 552 6771

• Extremely competitive prices.

• Order now for your next project.

for those unable to) help out on a working bee but still want to be involved in this great community asset, we are asking for people to donate $60 (or more or less as you are able) to buy a joist or rafter. If you’re able to get on board and help us in this way, or come along to one of our working bees, or do both it would be much appreciated. Please donate online with your name/(or anonymous if you prefer) but with “joist” or “deck” or “donation” in the reference field.

Whakamārama Community Centre 030435-0461463-000.

Many Thanks, Mike Carter, Chairperson.

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

PRESCHOOL PLAYGROUP Thursdays 9.30-noon (during term time).This is a friendly, free group with a fantastic range of toys and great indoor and outdoor spaces. Phone Alison on 021 873 057 for more information.

TWIF Thank Whaka Its Friday takes place every 3rd Friday of the month from 6-8.30pm. Everyone is welcome. Bring your dinner, your family and a bottle or two and enjoy a gathering with neighbours and friends. Find out what's going on in the community and meet fellow Whakamārama locals.

‘MOVE IT’ FITNESS Mondays and Wednesdays 9.30am and Thursdays 7pm. An informal 45 minute exercise class for anyone. Go at your own pace. $5 per session or book a term for $40 (per class).

Children welcome. Phone Caryn 021 133 5390.

Showroom: 5/57 Wilson Road, Waihi Beach Open: Mon – Frid 8.30am – 4pm & Saturday 9am – 12 noon Phone: 07 863 5723 Mobile: 027 233 7277 Email: owensfloor@xtra.co.nz

467 Omokoroa Rd, RD2 Tauranga, 3172 07 577 1758 www.pavinginnovations.co.nz

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WHAKA EMAILS Community news including police reports, lost and found animals, items for sale, excess fruit and vegetables, and rentals wanted. To receive these email: col.hewens@orcon.net.nz HALL BOOKINGS To book the hall, call Suaree Borrell, the booking officer, on 021 570 554 or email whakahallbookings@outlook.com. We also have tables and chairs available to hire at very reasonable rates.

“LOCALS LOOKING AFTER LOCALS” Free Measure & Quotation QCARD Available Proud Members of The Flooring Foundation

March 2020 | Lizard News |

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Keeping cool at Playcentre

By Jen Hague erm 1 has started and we’re delighted to welcome back many of our existing Playcentre families and some new ones.

Summer is always super fun at Playcentre. We’re experimenting with ice play whilst keeping cool and being water conscious! The parents have been filling containers of water and balloons with hidden surprises and colours for our tamariki to play with once frozen. Mostly they’ve enjoyed smashing the ice apart and chasing each other (and us adults) with their ice-cold hands.

The parents have also been planning some fun things for the term ahead.

At the start of each term, we chat about what each of our children are enjoying

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at the moment and think of ways to incorporate this into our sessions.

We’ll be setting up obstacle courses with lots of jumping and climbing for our little adventurers, we’ll have some more water, slime and sand play for our tactile tamariki and then plenty of painting, dress ups, stories and carpentry for everyone to enjoy. We’ll also be heading out into the community for some trips including blueberry picking, beach time and to local parks and nature reserves.

You and your whānau are welcome to join in the fun on Monday, Thursday and Friday mornings at 9am-12pm.

Get in touch via Facebook or email omokoroa@playcentre.org.nz to find out more.

Finding treasures in the melting ice blocks. PHOTO: Supplied.

Helping people stay safe on the water

By Jane Nees Bay of Plenty Regional Councillor

he Bay of Plenty is renowned for its beautiful harbours, lakes and rivers. These waterways are shared by boats, swimmers and other recreational users, so it’s important we share this space safely.

Important members of the Bay of Plenty Regional Council are our Harbourmaster and Maritime Team who work to keep Bay of Plenty waterways safe for everyone to enjoy.

Some of the work they do on our waterways is to carry out regular patrols to

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ensure that harbour and lakes users know the rules and are abiding by the Bay of Plenty Navigation and Safety Bylaw, maintain more than 800 navigation aids, lights and beacons around the region, remove hazards (when accessible), such as large logs and fallen trees from local waterways, dispose of abandoned vessels, maintain safe boating signage at your local boat ramps, respond to marine oil spill events, issue mooring licences for 482 swing moorings, manage aquatic events and lakes closures, promote safe boating, and keep local and visiting boaties informed of changes to local rules and regulations.

LEARN TO PLAY BRIDGE Omokoroa Bridge Club Invites you to

Harbour Patrol Wardens and Voluntary Safe Boating Advisors assist the Maritime Team with the promotion of safe boating Navigation Safety Bylaw compliance. They do this through education and enforcement. Often out on the water, our Wardens are warranted to enforce the Bylaw and they are also some of the best people to answer your questions about local conditions, where the local ski lanes are and what the local boat ramps are like.

I also recommend the Bay of Plenty Regional Council website boprc.govt.nz which provides a lot of helpful information and links for boaties, including a

very useful downloadable booklet called “Boating in the Bay” which provides a great introduction to boating in the Bay of Plenty, what the rules are, and it includes maps with basic information on popular boating spots too.

On these hot days, being out on the water is a cool place to be. If you get the opportunity, I hope you have fun, and use the information provided by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council to stay safe on the water.

If you would like more information on the regional council or any other issue, contact me on neesj@xtra.co.nz or ring me on 07 579 5150.

Wedding Venue

The best card game in the world!

Weekly lessons start Wednesday 22nd April, 7.30pm – 9.30pm At the Omokoroa Community Church, 139 Hamurana Road Phone or email us now to book your place

$40.00 Includes lessons and 6 months membership to the Bridge Club Jo Wake 548 0287 or Jean Sears 548 0717 or David Luxton 548 0521 or email: omokoroabridge@gmail.com

Come with your family, friends, or just yourself!

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| Lizard News | March 2020

Athenree Homestead & Station is set in a parklike setting with amazing views over the inner Tauranga Harbour.

Located just off SH2 and only 15 mins drive from Katikati or Waihi.

An excellent venue for a wedding with plenty of room for marquees.

Have a look at our website athenreehomestead.org.nz If you would like to visit the Homestead or need a wedding information pack, please contact:

VAL NEW: 07 863 4673 | 021 977825 | valnew638@gmail.com

lizardnews.net

Ōmokoroa No. 1 School students recently enjoyed a camp at Raglan. PHOTO: Supplied.

Camp Raglan reflections

By Mya Windelborn hen I arrived at school I was excited and nervous at the same time, I didn’t know what to think, was it going to be good or bad?

I’ll just have to wait and see. We hopped onto the bus.

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It was a long 4-5 hour drive until we arrived at our destination, Camp Raglan.

My friends and I were excited for the week ahead of us. We started to locate our cabin, and there it was G7. We rushed inside, dropped our bags on the floor and jumped onto the bed we wanted, I was on the top bunk with my friend Zoe. We set up our beds then went outside to have a look around, it was awesome.

We saw the playground, we rushed over to it but all the equipment was occupied except for the seesaw. Later in the day, the bell rang so we all scattered into the hall and found out it was dinner time. My mouth watered at the thought of the nachos, once I got my plate I rushed to an empty table and took my first bite. It was amazing. Then it was time for dessert, that was delicious.

Later on, the teachers told us it was time for bed, yay.

On the second day of camp we were split up into groups, my group was on archery. I was so excited. I have tried

archery before but I wasn’t good at it so I hoped I would be better this time. We hopped down on the seats and then it was my go, I rushed to the bow, grabbed my arrow and held them up, aimed and I let go but I missed, then my second arrow I let go and I hit the target but the arrow bounced off, then my third arrow I missed, again. We all got 4 goes each, and I missed every time. In no time archery was over, but besides my failures, archery was really fun.

In the afternoon of day 3, my friends and I went over to the hill near our cabin to try cardboard box sliding. I grabbed a piece of cardboard, sat on it and, zoom.

I was off, I went speeding down the hill, it felt like I was as fast as a bullet. I reached the bottom then rushed up the hill to have another go, it was awesome.

A little while after my friend Katie found a long piece of cardboard so I asked her if we could double, she said yes. I was excited, same with Katie, so we hopped on and off we went, we were as fast as lightning and as soon as we hit the bottom we cracked up laughing it was awesome.

I would definitely do it again.

Earlier on in day 3, we went down a long path to get to the beach. We walked up the beach until we had found a good place to sit. We started to play some beach games. For example, we had to dig in the sand to find some things like shells, then we had an extreme sandcas-

tle building competition, we built a palm tree but we lost, then it was time for surfing. We all slipped on our wetsuits over our togs then grabbed a surfboard and the lifeguard taught us how to stand up on our boards even though we already knew how to, then he told us about safety, and we were ready to go in the water. It was great surf but it was a bit choppy, we all got on our surfboards and caught heaps of waves. It was awesome and then surfing was over, we had to take the surfboards back then walk all the way up the stairs “yay”.

Professional Handyman

What an awesome camp.

• Skilled in many trades • Workmanship guaranteed • No job too small Carpentry Leaks sourced & resolved Rot Repairs & reinstatement Bathroom fit-outs Shower installations Tiling & painting

Many local references

Peter Alford

548 0024 • 021 181 1060

Law Elder law Property Subdivisions Employment Law Company Business Relationships Wills Trusts Probate Estates Powers of Attorney Retirement Villages

LAWYERS Philip Annan 548 1406 Geoff Annan 548 2675 1 McDonnell Street Omokoroa 548 1048 Open mornings Mon – Thurs wow@annanlaw.nz Tauranga Office 578 8888

Located in the stunning seaside town of Omokoroa, Rumor is the perfect place to come and treat yourself, weather you're local, or here on holiday. Rumor is a luxurious haven for women to unwind, relax and escape from the everyday hustle and bustle.

Ashley is a highly experienced professional senior beauty therapist offering a range of treatments, including specialised facials, skincare, waxing, electrolysis, tinting, massage and more!

Book your appointment at Rumor to experience pure indulgence, luxury and relaxation. Contact Ashley on 0211427770, rumorbeauty@gmail.com or Rumor’s Facebook page, Rumor Beauty Skin Health Specialist.

March 2020 | Lizard News |

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Wiremu Weka treks to Ōmokoroa

By Liz Farrell he long-awaited February rain arrived just in time to drive the planned outdoor book-reading event into an indoor affair. Readers of all ages came to Ōmokoroa Library on the morning of Saturday 22nd February to hear local author, Kinsa Hays, read aloud

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her recently-launched book ‘Wiremu Weka Treks the Alps’.

The colourful book follows Wiremu as he journeys across the Southern Alps. It is full of photographs, facts and maps which will interest adults as well as the 8-13 aged readership it is aimed at.

Ann Graeme, QSM, the writer of the

children’s magazine KCC for Forest and Bird for twenty years, speculates in her review of the book that “it might likely spark a family holiday, following in the footsteps of Wiremu Weka!”

The book covers such wide-ranging subjects as wildlife, geology, Māori and pākehā history, roads, rivers and railways and more, but is all tied together in the delightful story of Wiremu on his adventure.

After the reading, the children learned

to draw weka and had the opportunity to see stuffed weka, pūkeko and stoat, which the author had brought along. Finally, everyone shared weka cookies (well, cookies with weka footprints on) and had the opportunity to purchase a signed copy of the book.

Further copies are available for sale directly from the author at taurangawritersnz@gmail.com Thanks to everyone who came along to support the author and the library.

Waitangi Day sailing Above: Learning how to draw weka - and wekadecorated cookies.

Left: Author Kinsa Hays surprised visitors with her wild purple hair.

Six boats line up ready for the Le Mans style start. PHOTO: Liz Farrell.

By John Budden

Stuffed pūkeko and weka on hand for everyone to see. PHOTOS: Liz Farrell.

7am Four-year-old to 6pm programme •

• Swimming lessons at • Minnows twice • a week •

Real trees, and grass in our new extended playground

•

•

•

A community vegetable garden Animals: guinea pigs, rabbits, fish

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The third annual Waitangi Day adults’ race in dinghies was purely a Club affair. Four Club Sunbursts, a Starling and a Laser headed out for the harbour course. Alex Annan won the golden centreboard in a Laser again, followed

by Phil Baker in “Luke”, Richard Keech in his Starling “Bobo”, then John and Inge in “Rob G”, and Mike and Jamie O'Connor in “Leah”. John and Nicky, in “Yoda”, had to retire.

We provide quality education and care for children aged from 0 - 5 years in our purpose built centre.

All qualified Teachers

Healthy Home cooked meals I.C.T for children

Transition to School

Baby Sign Language

Trips to our local community 20 ECE Hours/WINZ

A home away from home enviroment

Please feel free to pop in and meet the team anytime

144 Margaret Drive Omokoroa 3114

Phone 07 548 2626 Email admin@omokpreschool.co.nz www.omokoroapreschool.co.nz

| Lizard News | March 2020

A locally owned and operated family business, with a team of qualified electricians that carry out all aspects of residential and commercial work including security alarms, heat pumps, and solar power generation.

07 552 0847 • 021 031 3483 www.theelectricalprofessionals.co.nz

lizardnews.net

Ōmokoroa Lions Tertiary Scholarship Winners for 2020 he Ōmokoroa Lions Club recently awarded their annual Tertiary Scholarships. The scholarships are available to students from the Ōmokoroa area who have had at least one year of tertiary education. The criteria for the

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scholarships are academic excellence, the student’s vision of their career path and their economic need. The quality of the applicants was exceptionally high and all students interviewed would have been worthy recipients of the awards.

From oasis to bio-foam

By Lorraine Wilks of Fragrance of Flowers n 1954 Vernon Lewis Smithers opened a new door with his invention which revolutionised the world of floristry. It meant that florists no longer had to use pin-holders in the base of their containers or spend hours making chicken wire and sphagnum moss frames. Instead, they could use SmithersOasis (a floral foam) which they could quickly drop into a bucket of water, cut to shape, place it into a container and easily arrange flowers and foliages.

Under a microscope, oasis has a honeycomb pattern which imitates the cellular structure of a plant stem. The spaces between the chambers allow the water to pass through the material and directly into the stem. This works in much the same way as the root system in plants which enhances the life of the cut flower.

The downside of using oasis is that it is made from a group of plastics known as phenolic resins or phenol formalde-

I

hyde - which are different to other families of plastics used in manufacturing.

They were the very first plastics to be developed in the 1900s and they are very harmful to the environment and to aquatic life. Phenolic resins will never decompose; rather they fragment into smaller and smaller pieces and eventually become micro-plastics (under 5µm in size).

As a result, many florists worldwide are becoming completely foam-free and they’re now using products such as Holly Chapple (modern versions of chickenwire) and frogs (pin-holders). Manufacturers Smithers-Oasis now produce Bio-Foam which is fully bio-degradable, and the enhanced foam formulation is designed for modern landfills and attracts microbes that break the foam down into methane, CO2 and organic matter.

If you are a floral designer but you cannot work without oasis then try using the new Bio-Foam instead of the regular oasis. Fragrance of Flowers stocks the new Bio-Foam.

However, the winner of the Beryl Scott Award of $2000 was Anna Jenkin. The winner of the Precious Brothers Award of $1500 was Kristin Brown.

Anna and her family live in Esdaile Road, Pahoia. She attended Ōmokoroa No 1 school before moving to Tauranga Girls College. Anna was an outstanding student, excelling in all areas of NCEA. As well as her strong academic record, Anna was also a Community Services prefect, organising fundraising for charities and nearby schools. Anna is also a black belt Martial Arts holder and plays the piano.

Anna spent 12 months after leaving school as an au pair in London before returning to attend university. Anna attends Auckland University, where she is majoring in law, and ‘International Politics and Human Rights’ for global stud-

ies. Her minor is te reo Māori. At this stage, Anna plans a career as a human rights lawyer.

Kristin and her family live in Esdaile Road, Pahoia. She attended Pahoia School before moving to Katikati College, where she was a high performing, selfmotivated student. She had exceptional results throughout high school and was on the Sports Committee, Charity Committee & Mental Health Committee.

Kristin attends Auckland University where she is studying a Bachelor of Health Science in Paramedicine. Kristin volunteers with the St John’s Katikati station when she is home. Kristin intends to move back to the Bay when she finishes her degree and hopes to work as an Emergency Medical Technician.

Article supplied.

Kristin Brown.

Anna Jenkin. PHOTOS: Supplied.

Other treatments available:

• Lash and brow tinting and tidy… from $22 - $49

• Treat your feet to some time out. Pedicure includes – foot soak, cuticle care, clipping, filing, buffing and foot massage… $45 / $50 with colour

Arranging Floweres?

New improved technology now makes this product eco-friendly.

tri

Come in, check out our range and test drive the new Masport 4WD & BigDog zero turn mowers

for electrolysis 027 231 0606 trielectrolysis@gmail.com www.trielectrolysis.co.nz

Jacqui Hardie - Electrologist Plus see our range of outdoor power equipment from 07 549 2775

&

4 Main Road, Katikati

www.fragranceofflowers.co.nz

07 549 0343 | 4 Main Road, Katikati (opposite Beach Road) March 2020 | Lizard News |

35

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Waka Ama makes a splash at Ōmokoroa Beach Tauranga Moana Outrigger Canoe Club hosted the Ōmokoroa Dash event at the Domain on Saturday 29th February. Bevan Collings of Ōmokoroa Photo Club was there. You can find his group on Facebook. Our thanks to Bevan for these great images.

CLASSICS Garlic Bread - $7.50

NEIGHBORHOOD PIZZAS - $21.00

Pizza of the week - Something different every Get one of these in your basket...now!

Lots of garlic oil, mozzarella & seasoning. week, we post some dribble about it on Facebook & Instagram. Follow us!

Flat Bread - $11.50

The garlic bread... then we add housemade hummus, rocket & balsamic reduction.

Margherita - $11.50

The most important pizza on the menu with rich tomato sauce, mozzarella & virgin olive oil.

Pepperoni - $13.50

Our sweet mummas tomato sauce is served with the best pepperoni we could nd & mozzarella.

Ham & Pineapple - $14.50 You know how this one goes...

Meat Lovers - $18.50

Slow cooked beef, pepperoni & ham makes this a trilogy you have to see.

ITALIANS Anchovy & Capers - $19.50

“Romana”

Beef & Chimmichurri – All time classic summer pizza, house-made herby sauce with slow-cooked beef, caramelized onion & olives.

Beetroot & Feta – New this summer, balsamic roasted beetroot with dollops of feta, olives pinenuts & then garnished with rocket.

Salmon & Capers – Smoked salmon with lemon

“Diavola”

Prosciutto & Mushroom - $20.50 “Prosciutto e funghi”

Come and join us.

You won’t be disappointed.

236 Omokoroa Road, Tauranga 3172

07 548 1440

zest, red onion, olives & capers. Squeeze of lemon once it’s cooked & cracked pepper.

Bianca Mushroom – Garlic & chilli infused feta sauce instead of tomato sauce, topped with mushrooms, spinach, olives & rosemary.

Prawn & Kaitaia – There is just something about hot sauce & prawns...This has peppers, olives & then garnished with parsley.

Mushroom & Blue – Creamy blue cheese melted

Pepperoni & Chilli - $20.50

through a bed of mushrooms with garlic oil & fresh herbs.

Pepperoni & Mushroom – Trying to take you

to New York with this combination. Pepperoni, mushrooms, jalapenos & chilli oil.

MOBILE BOOKKEEPING SERVICES HELPING SMALL BUSINESSES GROW Member of the Institute of Certified NZ Bookkeepers

Contact Danny today for a free, no obligation chat

SUMMER MENU

Meatball & Blue – This pizza is the winner of our ‘Design a Pizza Comp’ smokey Italian meatballs with caramelized onion, blue cheese & olives.

danny@balancedledgers.co.nz • 027 212 9569

07 548 2858

Vegan & Vegan – Spinach, mushrooms, caramelized onions, pine nuts, olives & vegan cheese garnished with balsamic reduction.

Let me take care of all your bookkeeping needs

Wed - Sun 4pm to 9pm

36

Chicken & Chorizo – House-made Caribbean sauce goes perfectly with free range chicken, chorizo & spinach.

Topz Hair Studio has a team of very experienced and qualified stylists ready to help you obtain the right look for you, by using the best products available on the market.

| Lizard News | March 2020

www.balancedledgers.co.nz

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DUCK AND BOAT RACE DAY 2020 Sat 4th aPrIl

Boat races from 2.30pm Duck race 4.30pm | Prize giving 5.00pm

PRIVATE PERSONAL TRAINING • 20 years experience in the fitness industry NZ & Australia • Private in home or outdoor sessions • Tailored personal programs • 1-to-1 or 2-to-1 sessions available • Locally owned and operated • Fully equipped home gym premises

CALL/TEXT KARLA P: 021 731001 | E: karlabremner@hotmail.com

Men's and Women's kayak race 10yrs and under Children's kayak race 11-14yr olds kayak race Open SUP race Men's and Women's rowing race: dinghies only (NO SKIFFS)

CASH AND OBC VOUCHER PRIZES!

Ducks $5 each, available at the bar and Omokoroa Point School Sign up for races and further details at the bar

ALL PROFITS TO OMOKOROA COMMUNITY GARDEN Kayaks supplied by

March 2020 | Lizard News |

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Proudly sponsored by

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Across 1. Accomplish (6) 4. Seek (6) 9. Strengthen (7) 10. Gradually reduce (5) 11. Guide (5) 12. Greed (7) 13. Absorbed (11) 18. Alike (7) 20. Recess (5) 22. Once more (5) 23. Relating to sense of touch (7) 24. Most recent (6) 25. Regain (6)

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A BEAUTIFUL MIND AMADEUS AMERICAN BEAUTY ANNIE HALL BRAVEHEART CASABLANCA CHICAGO CRASH FORREST GUMP GANDHI

GIGI GLADIATOR HAMLET MARTY MY FAIR LADY OUT OF AFRICA PATTON PLATOON RAIN MAN REBECCA

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D R M R E K C O L T R U H E H T Z Q

MEDIUM

APRIL EDITION

News and Advertising deadline Monday 23rd March

ROCKY SCHINDLER’S LIST THE DEER HUNTER THE DEPARTED THE HURT LOCKER THE KING’S SPEECH THE STING TITANIC TOM JONES UNFORGIVEN

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All puzzles © The Puzzle Company

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Wordsearch: Oscar winning

Z A I N A T I T J U L I E T Q N F R

Quick crossword

lizardnews.net

Across: 1. Attain, 4. Search, 9. Stiffen, 10. Taper, 11. Steer, 12. Avarice, 13. Preoccupied, 18. Similar, 20. Niche, 22. Again, 23. Tactile, 24. Latest, 25. Retake.

Down: 1. Assist, 2. Trite, 3. Inferno, 5. Extra, 6. Reptile, 7. Hornet, 8.

Incarcerate, 14. Remnant, 15. Panache, 16. Assail, 17. Serene, 19.

Links, 21. China.

Omokoroa Tide Chart March 2020 Omokoroa Tides

Fishing Guide Moon Phase

Omokoroa Tides

Fishing Guide Moon Phase

1 Sun 1:08 7:14 13:27 19:43

2 Mon 1.8 0.4 1.8 0.4

G

1.7 0.5 1.8 0.4

2:32 8:42 14:51 21:12

F

R 12:38 S 23:22 17 Tue 3:00 9:03 15:18 21:28

1:48 7:56 14:07 20:25

3 Tue

1.9 0.3 1.9 0.3

G

R 0:10 S 15:15

1.7 0.5 1.8 0.4

F

R 13:38 S 23:56 18 Wed 3:57 10:00 16:14 22:23

4 Wed

1.8 0.4 1.8 0.4

19 Thu

F

1.8 0.4 1.7 0.4

B

R 1:01 S 16:09

*Not for navigational purposes

1.7 0.5 1.7 0.4

4:19 10:31 16:37 23:01

B

R 14:38

4:55 10:58 17:11 23:20

3:22 9:33 15:41 22:04

5 Thu

R 1:56 S 16:55

S 0:37 R 15:38 20 Fri 5:52 1.8 11:56 0.5 18:09 1.7

1.7 0.5 1.7 0.4

S 1:25 R 16:37 21 Sat 0:17 6:46 12:51 19:05

7 Sat

5:20 1.7 11:32 0.5 17:39 1.8

0:01 6:23 12:35 18:44

0.4 1.8 0.5 1.7

F

S 2:22 R 17:31 22 Sun 1:11 7:37 13:43 19:57

0.3 1.8 0.4 1.8

1:01 7:24 13:36 19:47

0.4 1.8 0.4 1.7

2:02 8:25 14:32 20:45

Tide chart supplied by OceanFun Publishing, Ltd.

0.3 1.9 0.4 1.9

0.4 1.8 0.4 1.8

2:48 9:10 15:17 21:30

R 5:49 S 19:09

0.4 1.8 0.4 1.8

G

R 6:45 S 19:35

www.ofu.co.nz

omokoroa Proud to Support

Our Community 160 Omokoroa Rd, Omokoroa.

Open 7am – 9pm, 7 days.

Phone 281 1577.

38

| Lizard News | March 2020

Owned and operated by locals

1:59 8:22 14:34 20:47

10 Tue 0.2 2.0 0.3 1.9

B

S 4:37 R 19:05 24 Tue

G

R 4:51 S 18:41

9 Mon

G

S 3:27 R 18:21 23 Mon

F

R 3:53 S 18:10

8 Sun

G

F

B

B

R 2:54 S 17:36

6 Fri

0.1 2.0 0.2 2.0

B

S 5:52 R 19:44 25 Wed 3:31 9:51 15:59 22:11

2:55 9:17 15:29 21:43

11 Wed

0.4 1.8 0.4 1.8

G

R 7:42 S 20:01

0.1 2.1 0.1 2.0

B

S 7:07 R 20:20 26 Thu 4:12 10:30 16:38 22:50

3:48 10:10 16:22 22:37

12 Thu

0.4 1.8 0.3 1.8

G

R 8:38 S 20:27

0.0 2.1 0.0 2.1

B

S 8:22 R 20:54 27 Fri 4:51 11:07 17:16 23:26

4:41 11:02 17:13 23:29

13 Fri

0.4 1.8 0.3 1.8

G

R 9:34 S 20:54

S 9:35 R 21:28 28 Sat 5:29 0.4 11:42 1.8 17:53 0.3 G

R 10:32 S 21:23

14 Sat

5:32 0.1 11:52 2.1 18:03 0.0 B

2.1 0.1 2.1 0.1

B

S 10:48 R 22:04 29 Sun 0:02 6:07 12:18 18:32

0:21 6:24 12:43 18:53

15 Sun

1.8 0.4 1.8 0.3

G

R 11:31 S 21:55

2.0 0.2 2.0 0.1

1.8 0.4 1.8 0.4

G

R 12:30 S 22:33

S 13:09 R 23:23 31 Tue 1:21 7:31 13:38 19:55

2:06 8:08 14:25 20:35

2.0 0.2 1.9 0.2

G

B

S 12:00 R 22:42 30 Mon 0:40 6:48 12:56 19:12

1:13 7:16 13:34 19:44

16 Mon

S 14:15

1.8 0.4 1.8 0.4

F

R 13:29 S 23:17

NOTE: Tauranga tides subtract 50 mins, and Katikati tides subtract 20 mins from the times shown.

lizardnews.net

Socialising and singing on Waitangi Day he New Zealand flag fluttered up at the ANZAC cairn in the Crapp Reserve on Waitangi Day. Heather Reynolds has been to the Waitangi grounds in the Bay of Islands twice in the past 12 years on Waitangi Day - a truly multicultural occasion. She believes everyone should visit and join in at least once in their lifetime.

There is always much splendour, pomp and ceremony, as well as food and retail opportunities.

The Navy Band is always a winner with the crowd - they are so entertaining and don't just play their instruments - they dance and march to their music and joke and tell stories too.

However this year, back in Ōmokoroa, Heather took her collection of Pacific Island flags Tonga, Fiji, Vanuatu and New Cale-

T

donia - and raised the New Zealand flag. With coffee, biscuits, tablet and cellphone for games whilst hoping the odd visitor would pass by. She was very grateful to those who stopped to chat, especially Sandra and John, who took a photo. It was a great sunny morning from 10 to 11am and lovely under the beautiful trees on the reserve. It's nice to get out and meet the community and visitors walking, running and cycling past.

Maybe next year the message will get out - posters and Cyberlink notice earlier in the week. How time flies!

The Ōmokoroa Songsters took the opportunity to hold their picnic tea and sing as it was Thursday - Songsters night. Although the wind did whip away their voices, a fun time was had by all.

Article supplied.

Lizard Classifieds FOR SALE

SERVICES

SERVICES

SERVICES

FIREWOOD

Aaron P re p & P a i n t

Animal Health Care

Gentle Pain Relief with Bowen Therapy

Is your Animal suffering from Itchy Skin, Eye or Ear problems, Seizures, Anxiety, Arthritis, Muscular pain/stiffness or just unwell? Homeopathy and Bowen Therapy offer safe, effective treatments supporting your animal back to health.

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

For Sale Free delivery Katikati, shed stored, Ph 5492141 0277787301

Fr range farm es for sale.

Mixed grade, $6 dozen.

Old Highway, Omokoroa.

027 6979 535 07 552 6007 ianang@xtra.co.nz

I

dents cover a wide spectrum of physical ability but each person works at their own level. My role is to motivate and add layers of complexity when a student is ready for more challenge.

The health benefits include improved balance and co-ordination so it can complement other sports disciplines. The continuous wholebody movement stimulates blood and lymph flow and promotes deeper breathing. Then there is the mental stimulation.

I encourage everyone and anyone to have a go. Learning genuine tai chi and qigong is affordable at $5 per class, health-giving and fun for all. Classes will be Monday, 1.30-3pm.

I can be contacted on 027 222 2824.

painting . plastering . finishing

Ph: 548 2177 or 027 2333 936

SERVICES

Cheese Making and Cookery Classes in Omokoroa Contact Carolie caroliedekoster@gmail.com 0211 448 225 /carolie.dekoster

Painter

For all your painting and decorating requirements, interior and exterior, including roofing.

Exterior House Washing • Driveways • Cobbles • Decks • Fences • Gutters Softwash available.

Roof • House • Moss/mould treatment Commercial and residential properties.

Pre-Wash when selling your home.

My work is to the highest standard with fair and reasonable rates.

100% satisfaction guarantee.

PHONE BayWash 0800 422 922

Maths Mattas Mathematics, statistics & calculus tuition.

Years 9-13.

NZ qualified, experienced, practising teacher.

Excellent results.

TEXT 027 302 3440

By David Parker take a beginner tai chi class at Bethlehem but am planning to relocate it to the new Te Puna Hall when it opens sometime in late April.

I am with the Tai Chi Internal Arts NZ school which is a not for profit, non-religious and completely voluntary organisation.

Hence the low fees.

We started two years ago at Te Puke and now have seven classes going: five at Te Puke, one at Greerton and one at Bethlehem.

Tai chi is illusory in that it looks easy to do, however, it is a physical and mental challenge that can suit any student. It should also be fun.

We tend to attract the 55+ demographic as the activity is very gentle and low impact. Our stu-

Call Aaron on 027 441 7296 or aaronhook82@gmail.com

Ridgeview Partnership

TUITION

New Tai Chi beginner class

Now taking bookings for your Summer and Autumn projects.

• Stump Grinding Tractor Mounted • Paddock Topping • Rotary Hoeing • Gorse & Pasture Spraying

Gerard Quilty 027 447 5493 or 548 1337 after hours.

Ōmokoroa Songsters enjoyed a picnic and sing-song. PHOTO: Supplied.

Painter & Decorator

• Feel better • Ease pain • Relieve stress Offering Therapeutic, Sports, Relaxation, Pregnancy, or Hot Stone Massage Specialising in Myofascial Release Therapy *Gift vouchers available*

Essential oils and aromatherapy support for your health and wellness Based in Omokoroa Contact Liz on omokoroaoils@gmail.com mydoterra.com/omokoroa

Curtains • Roman Blinds Tracks • Rods • Rollerblinds Wooden Venetians • Shutters

dianesdecor@xtra.co.nz 548 1920 • 027 284 6543

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

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

SITUATIONS VACANT

CHEF Mature experienced chef required.

• Pan frying, deep frying and prep work.

• Minimum two years experience.

• Good command of English.

• Must be able to work nights and weekends.

• References are essential.

Contact Mary 021 040 4745 and leave a message.

WANTED

Hello!

Hi! Kia Ora! SELLING YOUR HOME PRIVATELY? We are keen to buy a home in Omokoroa, open outlook preferred, with space to park some toys!

Anything considered.

Please contact Brett 021 205 5815

SITUATIONS VACANT

Athenree Homestead is seeking a replacement Treasurer The Athenree Homestead Trust is a group of enthusiastic like minded volunteers who manage the operations of the homestead, railway station (as a cafe) and surrounding gardens.

Our treasurer is stepping down and we are seeking a replacement. This is a part time voluntary position and would suit a retired accounts person with bookkeeping experience, or a retired accountant.

Enquiries or for more information please contact:

Mr G Wicks - 07 549 3186 PUBLIC NOTICE

not just curtains!

(Registered Massage Therapist)

021 0818 4170 omokoroamassage.co.nz

Call Hannelore on 548 0824

DIANE’S DÉCOR

By appointment 10am-4pm

Andrea Van Klei

Call Hannelore on 548 0824

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

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

ROAST MEALS DELIVERED Good quality home made roast meals to your door.

If you want hearty, healthy meals without the hassle of cooking, let me do it. I have years of food experience and would love to share my tasty meals with you.

We have our own free range lamb. If you want chicken, I can do that too.

The price is $18.00. Delivery is $5.00.

Meals available Friday to Sunday. Order by Thursday.

Angela: 07 552 6007 or text 027 697 9535.

Enrolment Scheme Whakamarama School To avoid overcrowding, or the likelihood of overcrowding, the Ministry of Education has developed an enrolment scheme. This enrolment scheme is to be implemented from 28th April 2020.

Under this scheme, students will be entitled to be enrolled if they live within the home zone. The enrolment scheme, which includes a precise description of the home zone, may be viewed at the school office; where copies of the scheme are also available.

The enrolment of out of zone students is governed by the provisions of the Education Act 1989.

OMOKOROA COMMUNITY BOARD GRANTS The Omokoroa Community Board is seeking applications from within the Omokoroa community to their 2019/20 Community Board grant funding. Consideration will be given to applications received from individuals or community groups who volunteer their services for the benefit of the community of Omokoroa. Application Forms and the Criteria for applications are available from the Omokoroa Library and Service Centre, or Council website – www.westernbay.govt.nz – Menu (top left front) – Community – Grants and Funding – Community Board Grants or alternatively please contact the Senior Governance Advisor on 07 579 6735.

Applications should be received by the Community Board, Senior Governance Advisor, Western Bay of Plenty District Council, Private Bag 12803 Tauranga Mail Centre, Tauranga 3143, no later than Friday 20 March 2020.

Miriam Taris Chief Executive Officer

March 2020 | Lizard News |

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| Lizard News | March 2020