Lizard News April 2020 by Lizard News

Lizard News APRIL 2020

FREE LOCAL NEWS... IN THE COMMUNITY

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

In This Together By Matthew Farrell resh Choice owner Steve Ling says community volunteers were a “saving grace” when the supermarket was scrambling to cope with the effects of panic buying last month. “When the alert changed to Level 3, it was like Christmas Eve on steroids. But Christmas Eve is well-planned and resourced. This was unplanned and poorly resourced. “Every half-day, the situation was changing with government requirements for shopper self-distancing. Customers were like new puppies needing training. They had no idea what was going on, so they were all over the place, with their world tipped upside down. “They’re coming right now after we put a security guard on to help us. “I want to give a big shout out to Rick Peers, Lynda Moses and the outreach being run by Cyberlink and the Ōmokoroa Community Church for vulnerable residents,” says Steve. In This Together Ōmokoroa Peninsula has more than 50 vetted volunteers who have offered to deliver groceries to over 70s, or those with serious health issues. “In that period, a lot of the public did not want to work because they were scared. We went from five job applications per day to none. The volunteers got us through because we were fire fighting and we’re still playing catch-up,” he says. Several stock lines have been “hit and miss” with suppliers - including disinfectant, toilet paper, soap, tissues, flour, yeast, sugar, bread, and frozen veges. People need to shop less selfishly. On the day I spoke to her, grocery manager Sharon Hanson had ordered 2,247 cartons of goods to restock shelves, but only 1,549 arrived - leaving 31% missing. “Missing 50% of our order was the worst day. We were capped at 800 cartons, needing 2,500 to cover the gaps,” she says. For ITTOP volunteers, helping now may be something as simple as a phone call to check on someone every few days. Lynda wants people to consider their older neighbours, who may not see this information

Two weeks ago, those shopping for bread found there was naan left.

The runs have aﬀected toilet paper, but shelves were ﬂush when we plopped in.

Dominic on the door, reminding shoppers to maintain a physical distance.

ROOM FOR EVERYONE IN OMOKOROA

House and land packages now selling in Te Awanui Waters. Virtual tours of our show homes and plans are available on our website.

through email or Facebook. “Not all over-70s are smartphone or internet users. They may be isolated. Help with deliveries is only for peninsula residents genuinely not able to go themselves,” she says. Steve says staff have been amazing, with most working extra-long shifts. “They’ve always got a smile. No one has complained. They understand what is required of us and they get on with it. I take my hat off to them really,” says Steve. Fresh Choice faces a two-week shutdown if there is a case of COVID-19. “We have the weight of the staff health on our shoulders. Some in the community were not listening at the start. They were thinking only of themselves, not the consequences of their actions and their impact on the whole area if we had to close. “Some people had just returned from overseas. Another one or two were joking about the situation. The bottom line is, if you have a cold or feel unwell, you should stay away. “We are thinking of everyone in the community. Making sure everyone has food in the cupboard is very important to us,” Steve says. Fresh Choice has trained a dozen new members of staff for an online Click and Collect grocery service, which is already proving a winner. It hit the ground running with a national award after two days, clocking up 205 orders as the Ōmokoroa store was named NZ-wide winners in the new store category for the most impressive start to online trade. “I know there is some frustration in the peninsula with how long the current waiting time is to arrange collection or delivery. This week’s plan is to get on top of orders and expand the service by 50%,” says Steve. “We operated our Methven store through the two earthquakes, and they were nothing compared to the scale of this. It’s been more challenging by a country mile.” Meanwhile, Lynda Moses asks that local clubs and groups think of their more vulnerable members. If you have any welfare concerns for yourself or others, please email tanya@theocc.org.nz PHOTOS: Liz Farrell/Supplied.

JOIN THE MOVE TO

lizardnews.net

Lizard News

FREE LOCAL NEWS... IN THE COMMUNITY

the Letters to

NEWS & ADVERTISING

Editor

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

Council costs

CIRCULATION 10,700 copies printed

DEADLINE Our news and advertising deadline is around the 20th of the month. If you’d like us to design your advert, please give us as much notice as possible so we can get it right.

LAYOUT & DESIGN Inhouse Design and Print, Matamata office@inhousedesignandprint.co.nz

PRINTING Beacon Print, Whakatāne Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of management.

NEWS CREDIBILITY

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. We reserve the right to edit or abridge submitted material and will identify scribes where appropriate, other than where confidentiality has been assured. Unless an article is marked as supplied, those without bylines will typically have been written by the editor.

RATES We offer discounts to regular advertisers. Call for further details. We do not charge for labour, advert design or re-design. Every attempt is made to ensure print accuracy. Slight colour variations may occur. Prices exclude GST.

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

1/32 PAGE $55 60mm x 40.5mm

1/16 PAGE $110 Vertical - 60mm x 85mm Horizontal - 124mm x 40.5mm

1/8 PAGE $165 Vertical - 60mm x 174mm Horizontal - 124mm x 85mm

1/4 PAGE $275 Vertical - 124mm x 174mm Horizontal - 252mm x 85mm

1/2 PAGE $440 Vertical - 124mm x 352mm Horizontal - 252mm x 174mm

BACk hALf PAGE $495 275mm x 188mm + 5mm bleeds

fULL PAGE $825 No Bleeds - 252mm x 352mm Bleeds - 275mm x 380mm + 5mm bleeds

fRONT PAGE SOLUS $385 Subject to availability From January 2020, invoices are due by direct credit within seven days. Booking an advert constitutes agreement to these terms.

| Lizard News | April 2020

estern Bay of Plenty District Council should have learnt a lesson from the last world economic shock, when their reaction was slow. This recession will be worse. Already astute private businesses are cutting costs, reviewing staff numbers, suspending all discretionary spending, some reducing hours to protect jobs, and some managing directors taking a pay cut. It is a very opportune time for Council to take a long hard look at all but essential expenditure, and signal a halt to ‘nice to haves’. Astute private businesses are already in damage control. A lot of ratepayers will suffer, and the last thing they want at the moment is another rate rise. Remember, WBoPDC urban rates are already the dearest in New Zealand. In light of the Council currently being flush with funds, they should consider a rate freeze this coming financial year, as well as a full Council review. All but essential work should be put on hold, to help our longsuffering ratepayers. I know they are captive customers, but they are not a turkey to be plucked, they are running out of feathers. Council, please listen, join the real world, and share the pain.

time at home, check your property and get rid of any pampus, moth plant, ginger and tobacco weed. These are terrible weeds and very destructive. If you don’t know what they look like, a quick Google will tell you everything you need to know. Now is also a great time to set all the rat traps that you have. Winter is on its way and the vermin try to head indoors, now that the evenings are cooler. And, yes, there are still plenty of vermin out there, so please join us in this ongoing battle. Unite Ōmokoroa, set traps and rid rats. Go the extra mile and help to get weedfree. Jan Mayston, Ōmokoroa.

Audrey’s art

ahoia artist Audrey DuboisAubineau has an exhibition of her colourful paintings at the Imprint Gallery (run by local artists Stella Clark and myself) at the Historic Village, open Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 2pm and every 1st and 3rd Sunday. It’s definitely worth a visit when the lockdown is over.

Jackie Knotts, Ōmokoroa.

Editor: Audrey is also a member of the Lizard News team, and we will be excited to see her exhibition when it reopens after the lockdown.

It fills our lungs and hospitals And fills our mind with fear. It’s a nasty little bugger We don’t know where it is, It strikes unseen and silent It’s put us in a tizz. Streets are empty, shops are closed Lockdown for a month, at least. Stay inside your “bubble” We have to kill the beast. Scary as the Covid is It’s not the worst, I find. I fear not disease itself But the effect upon the mind.

Hoarding hurts the weaker ones In our little Kiwi herd.

On budget, on time Professional & reliable Call-outs Fault finding & repairs Rewiring & renovations Alterations & extensions Rural work/pumps

That’s striking far and near.

It really is absurd.

Use this time wisely

• • • • • • •

There’s a bug they call the Covid

Panic-buying toilet rolls

Norm Mayo, Katikati.

e as a nation, are working together to stop Covid-19. If we can continue to maintain our bubbles for another few weeks, I am picking that we will soon have our freedom back, within our country at least. Unfortunately, it may take a little longer for us to return to enjoying overseas holidays. I am loving this time within our bubble. We are tackling the deferred maintenance, that has been waiting for us. The neighbours and those on the cycleway will have heard the chainsaw and mulcher of late. The mulch is now waiting to be spread out onto the cleared gardens, suppressing weeds, while I patiently wait until the nursery opens again. When the rains come, the inside of our home will get some of the same spring-cleaning treatment. Please everyone, while we have this

Poem

Covid may take my business My income and my health. It will not take my inner peace That is my one true wealth. So, c’mon Kiwis, give a damn New Zealand is now shut. Let’s stay inside and chill And kick this bastard’s butt!

ASL

ELECTRICAL

You’re in safe hands

Pahoia-based Serving Te Puna to Katikati

Lee: 0210 834 5200 Registered, qualified tradesman Fully guaranteed and insured

Mark Lynch, Ōmokoroa NZ

OMOKOROA SELF STORAGE CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC During Lockdown there will be

NO ADMITTANCE As there are multiple touch surfaces here, we are playing it safe and must remain locked down in accordance with the law of the land. Please stay safe and healthy at this time, and remember there are plenty of things to do. We will be looking after your valued possessions for you, just as we always have. Thanks to you all. Stay safe and healthy. Regards, Chris and Antoinette.

07 548 0593 • 021 938 344

474 Omokoroa Road, Omokoroa omokoroaselfstorage@xtra.co.nz

lizardnews.net

Master plan for Ōmokoroa town centre he developers who bought 17,000 sqm of commercial land between the supermarket and church in Ōmokoroa have told Lizard News the project is now fully resource consented. Tze Wei Sneah and his father Kar Loon Sneah, directors of Halo Property Holdings Limited, say it’s prime time for the community to get involved. They are in discussions with joint venture partners, including contractors who have been in the industry in the Tauranga area for a few years. “These parties bring value to the project. This will be a demand-driven development around community needs. The feasibility study will determine whether this will be in several stages. “What are people looking for in this centre as the population grows from 4,000 to 6,000 in the next three years? We would like community feedback on the offering,” says Tze. Kar Loon wonders whether Ōmokoroa will need a

larger medical centre, gymnasium or spa. “There is a limited commercial retail offering at present. The development must benefit tenants and the community as a whole. This can be the soul of Ōmokoroa. The village doesn’t have a hub to come together and meet,” says Kar Loon. Rachel Millard of Tall Poppy says this development is exactly what Omokoroa needs. “It’s exciting and it’s great for the community. There’s been a strong response already with a very high level of genuine interest from people wanting to be a part of it. I will be contacting all of them in the coming week as this is now progressing - and I’m more than happy to answer any further queries,” she says. With the current scheme plan rendering, it is possible to see a conceptual snapshot of the intention. There is green space. It’s a family area; a public area with different amenities. “Ōmokoroa needs a well-designed master plan with

strong tenancy coordination. Businesses should complement one another. A food and beverage centre should not be doubling up on cafes or alcohol venues or restaurants. Not every prospective tenant may fit,” says Tze. The consultants involved are well accoladed, such as Momentum Planning and Design - First Principles Architects who are known for commercial buildings at Mount Central - and Salt, who have created apartments and townhouses near Bayfair. “Something exciting is coming, and we care about what is produced with this canvas. It is a legacy project. It must meet the characteristics of the village and be a sympathetically managed long-term sustainable development,” says Tze. The Sneahs say they will be flexible as they build a mix of residential, commercial and retail space. For expressions of interest, please contact Rachel Millard as the marketing agent. Comments and feedback may be emailed to omokoroavillage@gmail.com

Freedom campers forced together

By Matthew Farrell reedom campers across Tauranga and the Western Bay have been asked to relocate to the closest of three remaining sites being kept open for the rest of the lockdown period. Sites across the sub-region were closed on Friday 3rd April, to minimise ongoing movement between communities and any spread of COVID-19. Western Zone Civil Defence Controller Paul Davidson says closures are necessary to ensure safety. “We’ve become aware of several people camping in our area that don’t have one location to remain at. We have identified three central sites for people - with access to water, food, health care and waste disposal while we remain at Level 4 restrictions. Closures will be supported, monitored and enforced by Bay of Plenty Police,” he says. Five German tourists had been sharing a “bubble” of five cars, camping at Ōmokoroa Domain. They’d been

visited by the Police previously and were found to be self-isolating according to the rules. Lynn, Nicole, Catherine and Oliver from Hamburg met Jan Schilling, from the Black Forest south of Freiburg, in Auckland and then the Mount before arriving in Ōmoko-

A group of German tourists were correctly isolating themselves at Ōmokoroa Domain before being moved on.

roa together. Jan spoke to Lizard News by phone before their enforced move. “We are playing it safe, not causing any trouble. One woman has come and taken photos of us and stuck her fingers up at us. An older guy told us to go back to our country, saying we are not wanted here. “Others have approached from a safe distance to ask if we are OK. We are in good health and happy to be here. The weather is good, so we can sit outside to eat and drink in the fresh air. “Before we arrived we had turned down the chance to go to a hostel with other travellers because we thought that would be a higher chance of cross-contamination,” he says. The three sites are Commerce Lane, Te Puke - Marine Park, Tauranga - and Uretara Domain, Katikati. Anyone staying in a tent or a non-self-contained vehicle should contact the Temporary Accommodation Service on 0508 754 163.

Smarten up your property!

Katikati

HEAT PUMPS -DVRQ +LNX

Supply and Install Daikin, Mitsubishi and Toshiba

',**(5 , %2%&$7 , '5,//,1* , 5(7$,1,1*

Commercial Refrigeration Service and Installation

',**(5 , %2%&$7 , '5,//,1* , 5(7$,1,1*

Commercial and Coolstores Servicing - 24 HOURS

WEB | PRINT | DIGITAL

WWW.SHOTBRO.COM 021 973394

FREE QUOTES

07 549 3189

DIGITAL DESIGN.

ZKDNDHDUWKZRUNV#JPDLO FRP ZZZ ZKDNDHDUWKZRUNV FR Q]

:KDNDPDUDPD (DUWKZRUNV /WG

Follow the news updates online at

lizardnews.net and facebook.com/lizardnews

Nails on Esdaile Steph Lines

Gel Polish $35 . Deluxe Pedicure $40 By appointment only

07 548 0040 . 027 466 9037 . s.lines@xtra.co.nz

Helen Patterson Phone Mob Email Website

*RRGDOO 5RDG :KDNDPDUDPD 5' 7DXUDQJD

VERY AFFORDABLE RATES

Bathrooms, renovations, all new work, water proofing qualified, top quality work only, with references, neat & tidy with friendly attitude

Phone Mark 027 392 7017

SWIM SCHOOL

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

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

Classes for children of all ages | Thermally heated pool | Small classes | Qualified & Experienced Instructors

Mobile 021 682 432 | Email minnowsswimschool@gmail.com

329 Plummers Point Road, RD2, Tauranga | www.minnows.co.nz

thank you A big

TOP M A RK T I LI NG

to all of the local Western Bay businesses, large and small, that have journeyed with us during the first three years of Lizard News. Your support is appreciated and we look forward to the upturn on the other side of COVID-19.

Please share this digital edition with your email contacts and social media friends. April 2020 | Lizard News |

lizardnews.net

Pest Free Ōmokoroa By Jose Law his is my first column for a while, and I’ve learned that many new residents have no knowledge of our local pest control program. Pest Free was formed in 2005 when Hugh Smith, the then-Headmaster of Ōmokoroa Point School, became concerned that the very large numbers of rats present on the Peninsula was not only causing a rapid decline in the bird population, but also health and property concerns. Hugh asked Andrew Jenkins for advice and co-opted me to find our first volunteers through Probus Club—

as there were too many for Hugh to manage. I became the ‘Rat Lady’ and, with Andrew’s help, set up a pilot program. We first laid a Trakka run to establish a base population number present in Ōmokoroa—the result was a massive 85%— the biggest Andrew had ever found in the Western Bay. Residents were reporting seeing rats everywhere, running along fence tops, on terraces, inside of houses, and even in the Settlers’ Hall and Acacia Park. Within a month, bait stations were manufactured and with more volunteers, we laid down an ‘outside protective line’ of over 300 bait stations,

spaced around the foreshore from Crapp’s Point to the railway line, with another line through the middle of the peninsula. Andrew’s formula for the program was so successful we achieved a drop of 20% in rat numbers in each following annual Trakka run, until in 2010 we recorded a rat population of 5 to 7%— a huge achievement— this result remaining a yearly constant. The low population of predators provided a safe breeding environment for birds, resulting in a quick return, and rapid rise in species and numbers. Residents enjoy and comment on the birdsong, often helping by feeding the

birds through the winter. Even with all the developments, we have maintained good numbers of many species, both exotic and native birds- including, at last, a bellbird. The program is simple and targets rats using low toxicity bait (stored and handled under strict guidelines and with no reported incidence of a problem involving a pet.) The secret to its success is our wonderful volunteers who bait the lines consistently and regularly throughout the whole year. As rats are plentiful in all areas surrounding our peninsula, we know that if the outside line is ever discontinued, we’d soon be overrun with rats again.

Kiwisaver confusion t would be fair to say that KiwiSaver has had its worst month since the Global Financial Crisis. A correction was well-overdue; we just didn’t think it would be quite so extreme. Some people have panicked and switched to a conservative fund. Some have stopped contributing. The majority have probably done nothing, other than worry. Mark Lynch of Excelins, an Ōmokoroabased Registered Financial Adviser, says that doing nothing is the right thing to do. Worrying won’t suddenly make your balance jump up. In his experience, people say that they understand investment

risk - until that risk becomes a reality. “For a generation of people, this is their first experience of a market correction”, says Mark. “I don’t use words like crash or slump. They’re emotive words that are used in the media, and they really don’t help. I’ve been through four of these in my lifetime and I’ve learnt two things; corrections bring opportunities and bad times don’t last. “I’ve seen a lot of comments on social media about people who’ve “lost” $7,000, or $20,000. Many are too scared to look at their balance. I have no idea what has happened to my KiwiSaver balance, as I just don’t look. I know that I’m

in the right fund and I don’t need it for at least 10 years.” Most of us non-essential workers have time on our hands. By the middle of April we’ll have done all those outstanding projects, so what next? How about taking the time to really understand how KiwiSaver works, what the longterm situation is and how you can make the most of this correction? Mark will be running two KiwiSaver webinars on Wednesday 15th April, one at 10am and one at 6pm. See advert for registration details. Mark Lynch is a Registered Financial Adviser. A Disclosure Statement is available free upon request.

Help bring back our native birds Worried about your KiwiSaver? Not sure what to do? Do you want to know what NOT to do? I’m running two free webinars on KiwiSaver on 15th April. These will include: • Understanding KiwiSaver. • How safe is my money? • Learn the 5 mistakes that people make when markets turn. • Learn how to manage your emotions. • Going against the herd. • Can you get money out? • Should you stop contributing? Register by email to mark@excelins.co.nz or phone 027 552 6757. Webinars will be at 10:00am and 6:00pm, so please advise which one.

Business suspended until further notice

Be safe everyone!

Mark Lynch 027 552 6757 | mark@excelins.co.nz

www.excelins.co.nz

| Lizard News | April 2020

CALL COLIN ON 07 552 6771

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

ª ÚÞ Å å ĥ

tri

for electrolysis • Life insurance • Health insurance • Income and disability insurance • Trauma insurance • KiwiSaver • Insurance management plans

Join the Friends of The Blade volunteers and adopt a trap line.

Law

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

Jacqui Hardie - Electrologist

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

lizardnews.net

Concert cash boost for pavilion fit-out

By Matthew Farrell ast month’s Bee Gees and Queen covers concert at Western Avenue in Ōmokoroa raised $11,000 towards the sports pavilion under construction at the sports fields - generously boosted by a philanthropic donation of $50,000 from Wayne and Chloe Wright. The treasurer of the Ōmokoroa Sports and Recreation Society, Dennis Cresswell, says the organisers are happy with the outcome for several reasons. “That’s a lot of sausage sizzles. Most people enjoyed the music and we’ve had some very positive feedback as well as a few things to improve for next time, such as more lighting around the trees later at night, which we will do.” Crowd-pleasing Tauranga band Coupe De Ville returned from last year, following on from the opening Tauranga Boys’ and Ōtūmoetai College bands. Dennis says concert profits were down on last year as a result of higher costs, including having to hire a sound system which was included by last year’s Fleetwood Mac cover band, Dreams.

Money raised will go towards fixtures, fittings and furnishings for the $1.6m complex, which will also be an interim home for the relocated Council library and service centre.

L-R: OSRS volunteers Pete Presland, Dennis Cresswell and Rick Gerrish accept a pavilion fund donation from local couple Chloe and Wayne Wright (front).

There was also a $2,000 investment in a 10-year resource consent, which will benefit the next nine years of concerts expected to be held to pay for pavilion maintenance. Another additional cost was hiring a bouncy castle as a District Council requirement to provide family entertainment.

A Bee Gees and Queen tribute were the headline act. PHOTOS: Matthew Farrell.

Neighbourhood robbers tracked By Matthew Farrell couple who have had their Te Puna business ransacked four times in recent months say it is time local people were aware of repeat offenders living in the community. Phil and Paula Reed own the Quiedan tunnel houses construction company on Munro Road, visible from State Highway 2. In the first of the overnight robberies, $30,000 worth of tools and an $8,000 customised work trailer were stolen and remain outstanding. In a second visit, thieves took im-

ported samples of black posts made of recycled waste oil, which were going to be part of a trial comparison against the use of tanalised timber. The third time, vandalised a forklift, stole its battery, and smashed its computer control system. They also took around $10,000 worth of cable frames and other materials. After the third break-in, they were told theirs was one of four businesses installing security cameras on Munro Road that day, due to repeated thefts and vandalism. They also closed in a tunnel to lock everything away, which was broken into in

Our surgery is closed until further notice. We apologise and hope to reopen soon.

In an emergency, please call OMS Tauranga 07 578 8847

the latest incident when thieves smashed cameras and lights. “They’ve even taken hand wash soap three times, a hose, and cut off a tap,’ says Phil. “They are so brazen, they are just going to carry on until they are caught,” says Paula. In the most recent incident, Phil was able to recover his trailer of tools having fitted it with a tracking device and followed it. “I’d advise everyone with a trailer to get a GPS tracker. It’s $125 well spent,” Paula says. The trailer had been taken to a resi-

This red Ford sedan seen towing the trailer has the number plate IU3736, with both 3’s changed to B’s by use of a Sharpie. The plate appears to be stolen from a disused, cream 1972 Mercedes. PHOTO: Supplied.

dential address near the rugby club at Māramatanga Park. With Phil at the address and the police on their way, the thieves then dumped the mostly stillladen trailer in the club’s car park.

“Jane was very approachable from the beginning, and kept us informed about everything. Excellent. She communicated with us from the start. Nothing was a problem; she went beyond her call of duty. We'd recommend her to anyone.” - Junne and Ian

We’ve made selling your home easier than ever. Find out how. Let’s talk. Stay safe Omokoroa, and please feel free to contact me if you need any help

Full range of general dentistry 2/170 Omokoroa Road, Omokoroa, Tauranga 3114 07 548 2320 reception@omokoroadental.co.nz www.omokoroadental.co.nz

Jane Cross Sales Consultant 027 244 5488 | jane.cross@tallpoppy.co.nz tallpoppy.co.nz/jane-cross BULSARA T/A TALL POPPY LICENSED UNDER REA 2008

April 2020 | Lizard News |

lizardnews.net

Te Puna to Ōmokoroa lmost half a billion dollars is being spent on State Highway 2 (SH2) from Te Puna to Ōmokoroa to support urban and economic growth to the north of Tauranga and help save lives. This new four-lane corridor is an extension of the Tauranga Northern Link, responding to growth which now extends to Ōmokoroa. The NZ Upgrade Programme will spend $455 million on a new 7km, fourlane corridor to carry two lanes of general traffic and provide two dedicated lanes for bus priority, freight and vehicles carrying multiple people. This project includes a separated shared path for walking and cycling that runs along the entire length. An interchange overbridge with ramps

in each direction will be built at the intersection with Ōmokoroa Road. Other overbridges will take local traffic over the highway helping improve safety at Plummers Point Road / Barrett Road and Snodgrass Road / Te Puna Quarry Road. Western Bay of Plenty is one of the fastest growing regions in New Zealand. It is already home to 190,000 people, with an additional 70,000 expected to make it their home in the next 50 years. SH2 once passed through a few rural settlements. It is now a busy commuter, agribusiness and regional freight route, as well as tourist link between Bay of Plenty and the Coromandel Peninsula, with a poor safety record. The current $100 million safety improvements along

the existing SH2 corridor will continue as this road will remain in use and an integral part of the region’s future transport system. The new highway will provide a safer, alternative route with better access to Tauranga Port and is expected to reduce deaths and serious injuries by 85%. With almost 90% of all journeys to

work in Tauranga taken by private car, it is critical residents have better access to safe, reliable and efficient travel options, such as public transport and walking and cycling, to change the way they move about the region. Construction is expected to get underway late 2023. Article: NZTA.

Safety drives essential maintenance on Bay of Plenty state highways he NZ Transport Agency says contractors will be undertaking essential maintenance activities across the western Bay of Plenty this week. Spokesperson Rob Campbell says these essential works allow contractors to ensure the road remains safe for all users. “Safely maintaining New Zealand’s state highway system is considered vital at this time in order to ensure that critical functions to limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus can continue.” This includes State Highway 2 be-

tween the intersections with Gill Lane and Ōmokoroa Road, where work to renew rumble strips will get underway from Sunday 5th April and will continue through Easter weekend. Work will take place overnight between 8pm and 5am. The works will be mobile operations, with traffic management trucks and may require minor lane shifts or closures. Rumble strips are important longterm safety devices for the highway, as they are used to separate road lanes and help prevent vehicles accidentally leaving the road. They must be laid during dry, warm weather, as cold, wet weather

affects adhesion and drying times. Mr Campbell asks people to be patient and respectful to road workers and look out for their safety and wellbeing. “If you see contractors out on the roads during the shutdown period please remember that they are carrying out essential work to keep us all safe. “If you are using the roads during this period remember to comply with any temporary speed reductions through roadworks to keep workers safe. They are doing vital work and we all owe them a debt of gratitude. “Only head out for essential supplies

or services. Otherwise, please stay safe, and stay home. “If you must drive to access essential supplies or services please take care, drive to the conditions and obey the speed limits.” Mr Campbell says while NZTA does its best to provide up-to-date information, given the current operating environment under the COVID-19 alert system Level 4 some road works may change at short notice, and people are encouraged to visit the agency’s journey planner website at journeys.nzta.govt.nz for real-time information.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP As we are non essential workers our hearts are with the community. If we can help you where and when we can with delivering groceries etc, please call us.

Ron & Pat Shanks | Marketing Consultants F 0800 766 728 M 021 956 270 (Ron) | M 021 804 463 (Pat) ron.patshanks@harcourts.co.nz www.ronandpatshanks.harcourts.co.nz Advantage Realty Ltd MREINZ Licensed Agent REAA 2008 April 2020 | Lizard News |

lizardnews.net

LUCY DAWNE DRAKE 23.12.2002 - 13.03.2019 he past month marked the anniversary of the passing of our gorgeous daughter Lucy (Lulu) Drake on March 13th 2019 and it was also the end of a year full of sad firsts without her. We have spent this time remembering and regrouping as a family. After much reflection, Nick and I would like to take the time to thank our amazing community and friends for the support and love that has been given to our whole family over the past 22 months. We both feel that

we haven’t had the opportunity to thank everyone enough. Often it was just the simple things like a smile, a hand on the shoulder or just a quick chat about everyday life that really made a difference. The support we received through delicious food, fundraising and financial support, moving our house in several hours and beautiful care parcels makes the Ōmokoroa Community legendary. We wish also to thank the staff at Starship, Ronald McDonald House, Waipuna Hospice, Tauranga Hospital, Child Cancer Foundation and many other organisations that helped us during our time of need. So thank you, everybody! To remember Lulu and to embrace the mottos that guided her through her last nine months ‘accept the things you can’t change’ and ‘get out there and live life to the full’, which I shared at her celebration, Nick and

I have decided to go on an adventure. We have signed up to complete the Cancer Society Tranz Alpine Scooter Safari on May 16th. We will be riding a 50cc scooter for 250 gruelling kilometres from Christchurch over the Southern Alps to Hokitika. This is to raise money for the Cancer Society as a way for us to pay it forward and support those that are now on the journey Lulu and our family travelled. (The Tranz Alpine scooter safari is still going ahead this year, although it has been postponed). We are very aware how fortunate we were in getting support and hope with your help we can reach our donation target. To help us do so, please visit Cancer Society Tranz Alpine Scooter Safari, click Donate, then type 4Lulu under Rider search. Many thanks, Nick Drake and Meg Gallagher.

Todd Talk

By Todd Muller Bay of Plenty MP f I could summarise our community’s reaction to the Government saying that the Tauranga Northern Link is to be built, after all, having scrapped the plans in 2018, it would be ‘about bloody time’. I am proud of the communities of Te Puna, Ōmokoroa, Whakamārama and Pahoia who, through the Fix The Bloody Road campaign, kept the pressure on the Minister of Transport to reinstate the project. Like our community, I am frustrated that this has taken so long. While we are delighted that the Government has listened to the voices of our electorate, the pressure must remain on them to ensure that the Northern Link will look as much as possible like the plans the National Government announced in 2016. Promises of increased funding for major infrastructure like this significant

4WD BRUSH CUTTING & RIDE ON MOWING SERVICES

highway are of course welcomed, but we want reassurance that it will be safer and more substantial than just tinkering with the existing narrow and windy roads. Bay of Plenty lives are at stake. Sharp-eyed readers may have noticed that I didn’t write a column for the Lizard last month. In my place was Scott Simpson, MP for Coromandel, who will be alternating with me each month. Last election, the Bay of Plenty electorate boundary was at Sargent Drive; this election it will be at the Te Puna Stream. I’m sad to farewell Ōmokoroa and Whakamārama, but residents will be in very safe hands with my good friend Scott Simpson. After the election, I’ll still be holding monthly constituent clinics, but they’ll be held in Te Puna. If you need assistance at any time, please don’t hesitate to phone my office on 07 542 0505.

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

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL RIDE ON MOWING Authorised by Scott Simpson MP, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.

WE’RE STILL DOING BUSINESS

Just in a di erent way. To find out how call us today. Janine Parker

Noel Benstead

Angela Fowler

Sales Consultant – Omokoroa Office

Award Winning Sales Consultant Katikati

021 383 700

027 525 3380

027 220 8992

janine.parker@tremains.co.nz

noel.benstead@tremains.co.nz

angela.fowler@tremains.co.nz

tremains.co.nz REAL ESTATE

| Lizard News | April 2020

Tremain Real Estate BOP Limited Licensed REAA 2008

COVID-19 news in brief... The symptoms of COVID-19 include a cough, a high temperature (at least 38°C), and shortness of breath. If you have these symptoms and have recently been overseas or have been in close contact with someone confirmed with COVID-19, please telephone Healthline (for free) on 0800 358 5453 or call your doctor immediately – do not turn up to a health or medical centre without phoning first.

lizardnews.net

They can support households who are facing hardship and need help with access to essentials such as food and medication, particularly for vulnerable, disabled or at-risk groups and people without access to their own transport.

The best way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 is to practice good infection prevention and hygiene. Wash hands regularly, for at least 20 seconds with water and soap, and dry them thoroughly. Wash hands before eating or handling food - after the toilet - after coughing, sneezing, blowing your nose or wiping children's noses - after caring for sick people. Try to avoid touching your face with your hands.

To access essential food and medications please use your network of friends, family and neighbours who can help you at this time. If you are unable to obtain essential food and medication through these networks you can make contact with the Bay of Plenty Civil Defence call centre on 0800 884 222 between 7am and 7pm.

WBOPDC community facilities have largely been closed, including most public toilets. Those few toilets that remain open will be cleaned three times daily. TECT Park is closed. All recycling and greenwaste centres in Athenree, Katikati, Ōmokoroa and Te Puke are closed until further notice. The public is reminded, where possible, to store recycling at their property until things return to normal and don’t dump recycling or greenwaste on road verges, parks or down gullies. The public is asked not to use playgrounds – on Government’s advice – and all Council’s construction sites have been closed down and left in a safe condition. Animal control services will be reduced to action on issues of public safety such as dog attacks, dogs roaming on state highways or dangerous dog incidents. Public safety complaints will be attended by officers.

Fish & Game is urging anglers and hunters to do the right thing and stay at home during COVID-19 Alert Level Four. Chief Executive Martin Taylor says the Government’s clear intention is that fishing and hunting are prohibited, as activities that expose participants and others to inherently higher levels of risk. DOC huts and campsites are closed, as they don’t meet minimum separation requirements. Search and Rescue is asking people to stick to simple outdoor exercise, and avoid areas where they could get lost. People reporting suspected breaches of COVID-19 Alert Level 4 restrictions via online reporting on the Police website are asked to be patient. The online form can be found at police.govt.nz/105support It can be used to report isolation breaches or cases of businesses continuing to operate when they are not part of the essential workforce. In the first few hours of going live on Sunday 29th March, the website experienced very heavy traffic. If you are having difficulty, please try again later. As all Western Bay of Plenty District Council libraries and other service centres are closed, the public is advised not to return any library books currently issued. Any issued books have been extended and there will be no overdues or fines. All closures will be monitored and reassessed on an ongoing basis. “At the present time we will continue to make calculated decisions to balance continuity of Council services with the safety of the public and minimisation of the spread of COVID-19,” explains Council CEO Miriam Taris. “Our priority is to ensure continuity of our essential services such as providing safe drinking water, operating our wastewater facilities, doing emergency roading work only and having phone and email access to our customer services to help people during these unprecedented times,” she says.

Packhouse staff

WE STILL 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.

CALL NOW: 07 549 1011

CURRENTLY RECRUITING DAY AND NIGHT SHIFT STAFF

WE ARE AN ESSENTIAL BUSINESS April 2020 | Lizard News |

lizardnews.net

Fire funding finalised By Matthew Farrell he staff of Tall Poppy have completed their mission to fund a replacement personnel carrier for the Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade, handing over a cheque for $20,000 to Chief Fire Officer Ian Blunt last month. Franchisee Rachel Millard says each team member has donated money from personal sales commissions. “We are all very proud to support the brigade and the amazing work they do. This sum has been donated specifically to buy a new vehicle, and we are looking forward to seeing it being used to help keep our community safe,” says Rachel. Ian Blunt says the brigade is very appreciative. “Thank you for what you do for the brigade. It’s been a busy time of late, with many hours spent behind the hoses fighting fires, including helping Katikati. Hopefully, the new vehicle will make us even more efficient and will make life easier for our volunteers,” he says. The existing support vehicle is a 20-year-old van, which is used to ferry extra gear when needed. It is used at all major fires, every Tuesday night training session, and when team members are required to attend meetings.

Rachel, Linley, Bernie, Jane, and Linda presenting the cheque to Ian recently. PHOTO: Martin Millard.

Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade By Ian Blunt Chief Fire Officer ince last month’s edition, firefighters from the Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade have been busy answering a number of calls, the first on the 5th March to a large shed and accommodation block on fire on State Highway 2. Five fire trucks, a water tanker and water from a large swimming pool extinguished the blaze. A deck on fire, which was attached to a container on Whakamārama Road, was extinguished a couple of days later. Two

JUST LISTED. 315 Lund Rd Aongatete.

calls in Ōmokoroa to alarms sounding resulted in no Brigade action. Two vegetation fires, one to assist Katikati Brigade in a Wright Road incident the other to Plummer’s Point Road, was the start of a busy weekend. Two patients needed assistance, one from a boat at the boat ramp, the other from Lynley Park where a cyclist on the cycle track came to grief. Campers had a fire at the reserve at the end of Plummer’s Point Road. Also in Plummer’s Point Road, on the 30th March, a large 20 x 30 metre bark pile took a number of hours to ex-

Check out this fantastic lifestyle with Sunshine, solitude, sea views and big shed! Gorgeous family home, set on 2ha of uncovenanted bush and grazing, built in 2018. If you think like this one looks like a bit of you, please let me know so I can contact you when we’re all safe to view. https://bit.ly/2QYaZvk

tinguish and used six fire trucks and two water tankers. Around 200 volunteer personnel hours have now been spent at this location in two incidents. The following day, two cars were involved in a minor accident at Te Puna Stream at about 7pm. Thankfully no one was trapped. On Wednesday 1st April, there were two calls to rubbish being burned despite no permits being issued - at Munro Rd, Te Puna then Albert Lane, Plummers Point.

Some rain has fallen lately, but permits are still not being issued for fires in the district. The First Responders have attended seven callouts including a pupil suffering a broken arm from a fall at school, chest pains, a stroke, seizure and injuries from a fall from a bike in Lynley Park. Please consider others in these extraordinary times with the pandemic and lockdown in full swing. Our Brigade will still respond to your emergencies, but it would really be a bonus if we were not required.

PLEASE HELP YOUR COMMUNITY

WE NEED YOU! Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade are looking for

IN THE MEANTIME, STAY SAFE, OBEY THE RULES, LOOK AFTER FRIENDS, FAMILY AND NEIGHBOURS AND ENJOY A BIT OF DOWN TIME. For a great result from a proven successful salesperson, call me today. I’d love to meet you! LINDA MCLEAN P 07 548 1699 or 027 422 1040 E linda.mclean@tallpoppy.co.nz

| Lizard News | April 2020

• FIREFIGHTERS • FIRST RESPONDERS FOR MEDICAL CALLS For more information please call: CFO Ian Blunt 027 4599 478 or DCFO Simon Priest 027 436 6265

lizardnews.net By Tim Raeburn, Commodore he Ōmokoroa Boat Club’s fishing competitions took place on 1st March for the kids and 13/15th March for the adults. It was fantastic to see so many entries this year with a record 100 kids and 125 adults taking part. It was millpond calm on the harbour at the 6am Sunday morning start for the kids’ competition. As with as last year, it was those parents who could persuade their children to get up early being rewarded with the best of the fishing. However, one very relaxed youngster decided to only start fishing at 2.30pm and still had something to weigh in at 4pm. Lots of well-conditioned snapper were

Fishing competition landed but numbers of trevally and kahawai were down on last year. However, one kingfish was landed, by Lola Weir, which was great to see. Story of the day was Ada McMillan, age 8, reeling in a good-sized snapper when a bronze whaler shark decided it was hungry. It took the snapper from right beside the boat while breaching completely clear of the water. Ada thought it great fun but her Mum was more than a little shaken by the whole experience and required a stiff drink at the bar afterwards. Thanks to the generous sponsorship from many of the local businesses, all the kids received goody bags containing some great items and fish and chips from Skippers restaurant included in their ticket price.

The adults’ competition started at 6pm on Friday 13th, which was not a good omen for those of a superstitious nature. However, with lovely warm conditions and flat calm seas, everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. Some competitors did so well that they didn’t even bother to fish on the Saturday! The fine conditions carried into Sunday and it was great to see so many boats out on the harbour trying to bag the big one. Weigh-in was busy, with one lady competitor sprinting from her boat to make the weigh-in with 4 seconds to spare and the fish still twitching. Lots of great snapper were landed along with many good-sized kahawai and three kingies also weighed in. It is heartening to see that the harbour fishery seems to be thriving and it is easy

to forget how lucky we are to be living in such an amazing place. Prizegiving was a hoot with a great selection of prizes (and spot prizes for those who hadn’t been so lucky). It was also good to see people taking their re-hydrating seriously after a long day out in the harbour in the sunshine. A huge thank you to Rachel Millard at Tall Poppy Real Estate for once again being lead sponsor and to all our other wonderful sponsors. Without their donations and spot prizes, this great local competition could not happen. Finally, thank you to all the Committee members involved in the organizing of this event and to Fee, our club manager, for all her efforts. I look forward to seeing you all next year. Tight lines!

Lola Weir lands the only kingfish in the junior competition. PHOTOS: Supplied.

Heaviest Snapper (women) winner Nicky Raeburn.

OBC FISHING COMP RESULTS 2020 PRIZES ADULTS

Snapper Heaviest WOMENS: Name: Nicky Raeburn Snapper Heaviest MENS: Name: Peter Hinton Heaviest Kingfish (OVERALL): Name: Gethin Baldwin Heaviest Trevally (OVERALL): Name: Gavin Roach Heaviest Kahawai WOMENS: Name: Peggy Fitzgerald Heaviest Kahawai MENS Name: Chay Ellsmore Snapper 2nd Prize WOMENS: Name: Tania Vickers Snapper 2nd Prize MENS: Name: Gavin Roach Snapper AVERAGE WEIGHT: Name: Lauchlan McGregor Kahawai AVERAGE WEIGHT: Name: Joel Sheeley

PRIZES 8-14 YRS

Weight: 3.652kg Weight: 3.714kg Weight: 9.396kg Weight: 2.164kg Weight: 2.018kg Weight: 2.868kg Weight: 3.028kg Weight: 3.232kg Weight: 1.486kg Weight: 1.744kg

Heaviest Snapper 8-14YRS GIRLS: Name: Ruby Turner Weight: 2.414kg 2nd Heaviest Snapper 8-14YRS GIRLS: Name: Mackenzie Vickers Weight: 1.890kg Heaviest Snapper 8-14YRS BOYS: Name: Ryan Vickers Weight: 2.850kg 2nd Heaviest Snapper 8-14YRS BOYS: Name: Sam Scott Weight: 2.386kg Heaviest Trevally 8-14YRS GIRLS: Name: Charlotte Elsmore Weight: 2.922kg Heaviest Trevally 08-14YRS BOYS: Name: Ryan Vickers Weight: 0.796kg Heaviest Kahawai 8-14YRS GIRLS: Name: Bridget Hinton Weight: 2.328kg Heaviest Kahawai 08-14YRS BOYS Name: Cohen Watts Weight: 0.502kg Heaviest Kingfish BOYS+GIRLS (Both Age Groups) Name: Lola Weir Weight: 4.904kg Average Kahawai BOYS+GIRLS (Both Age Groups) Name: Lucy McMillan Weight: 0.908kg

PRIZES 0-7 YRS

Heaviest Snapper 0-7YRS GIRLS: Name: Ariana Roach Weight: 3.220kg 2nd Heaviest Snapper 0-7YRS GIRLS: Name: Lola Weir Weight: 1.124kg Heaviest Snapper 0-7YRS BOYS: Name: Quinn Evered Weight: 1.590kg 2nd Heaviest Snapper 0-7YRS BOYS: Name: Evan Baldwin Weight: 1.090kg Heaviest Trevally 0-7YRS GIRLS: Name: Samantha Pelham Weight: 1.110kg Heaviest Trevally 0-7YRS BOYS: Name: None entered Weight: Heaviest Kahawai 0-7YRS GIRLS: Name: Lucy McMillan Weight: 0.908kg Heaviest Kahawai 0-7YRS BOYS Name: None entered Weight:

Omokoroa Boat Club

2020 Fishing Competition Sponsors Our Main Sponsor is... Abron Group Auto Electrical Services Katikati Bay of Plenty Regional Council Belco Homes Bethlehem Hair Design Brent Maclean - Plumber Brother International (NZ) Ltd Burnsco Carine Garden Centre C-Thru Water Spot Remover Dobson Photo Marketing Dockside Marine Mechanical Electricians BOP FMG Fresh Choice Omokoroa Hamills Tauranga Harbour Master’s O ice Harcourts - Ron & Pat Shanks Heath Fairweather Ltd House t - Steve Willoughby Hunting & Fishing Tauranga ITM Omokoroa Laser Plumbing Omokoroa Leveret Estate Lizard News Michael Gill Builder Ministry Primary Industries (MPI) Minnows Swim School Mount Brewing Co. Neighborhood Pizzeria O ice Max Tauranga Omokoroa Accounting and Taxation Ltd

Tall Poppy Real Estate

Omokoroa Automotive Omokoroa Barber Shop Omokoroa Bobcats Omokoroa Bowling Club Omokoroa Country Estate Omokoroa Dental Surgery Omokoroa General Carriers Omokoroa Hair Stylist Omokoroa Holiday Thermal Park Omokoroa Pharmacy Omokoroa Print & Copy (The Omelette) Paving Innovations Prime Explosives Prolan – Lanolin Lubricants PW Security Gates Reside Construction Ltd Running Bird Café Skippers Restaurant Sportscra Marine Steve’s Marine Supplies Super Liquor Greerton Surtees Boats Tall Poppy Tauranga Curb and Paving Tauranga Fishing and Boat Show Taylor Bros Transport The Local Bar & Eatery Tremains Real Estate Omokoroa Vertec Ltd Waihi Pizza Club Whakamarama Automotive Wilde Sparx Electrical April 2020 | Lizard News |

lizardnews.net

ANZAC Biscuit Recipe Ingredients 1 cup rolled oats 1 cup plain flour 1 cup sugar 3/4 (three-quarters) cup coconut 125g (4 oz) butter 2 tablespoons golden syrup ½ (half) teaspoon bicarbonate of soda 1 tablespoon boiling water

Method Combine oats, sifted flour, sugar and coconut. Combine butter and golden syrup, stir over gentle heat until melted. Mix soda with boiling water, add to melted butter mixture, stir into dry ingredients. Take teaspoonfuls of mixture and place on lightly greased oven trays; allow room for spreading. Cook in low oven (150°C or 300°F) for 20 minutes. Loosen while still warm, then cool on trays. Makes about 35.

Ways to mark Anzac Day, starting with a dawn vigil at the end of your driveway By Liz Farrell Ōmokoroa Anzac organiser was recently asked if I was disappointed that Anzac Day would not be going ahead this year. The truth is, while there is some regret that this important date in our calendar will not be remembered with any large public gathering, I don’t know if disappointment is the right word to use. In truth, I’d be disappointed if people did decide to break lock-down to get together with anyone outside of their bubble. It seems like the utmost form of disrespect to step outside our doors for anything less than absolute essentials. There are plenty of memes on social media about the hardship of staying at home. Most of these are tongue-in-cheek but there is a grain of truth there, given the high numbers of people still going out and about. Anzac Day is about remembering the sacrifices of others. We are all descendants of people who were willing to give their lives for our freedom, and those who worked ‘for the greater good’ of their society. For the greater good of today’s society, we are literally being asked to

ACCOUNTANT

• Taxation, accounting, payroll, etc.

• Partnerships, companies, trusts, etc.

• Horticulture, trades, rentals, retail, etc.

Contact Alan or Paul for a free no obligation first meeting

BUYING A RURAL PROPERTY?

Accumulus Limited 07 549 1326 • 13 Talisman Drive, Katikati

www.accumulus.co.nz

stay at home. Stay at home. That’s it. I’m not saying this is an easy task. We are, by nature, social beings and our desire to see other people becomes extremely dominant when it's the one thing you are told you cannot do. There are, of course, far more serious issues that can affect people at home and while I’m not the expert in this field, there are support services available. So what can we do to keep ourselves occupied, and still honour those we would remember on Anzac Day? One idea doing the rounds on social media is for residents to light candles at the end of their driveways at 5.55am on 25th April. This is a nice idea, allows us to set our alarms clocks for something, maintains social distance and will certainly feel quite eerie, perhaps even quite moving. Let’s not leave any flames unattended, though. You could look into your family history and take the time to look through old photographs. Do some research on genealogy websites, including those accessible via the Western Bay of Plenty libraries’ website or apps such as Ngā Tapuwae Gallipoli. Share with younger members of the family stories that have

been passed down to you. Phone or video chat with older members of your family and talk to them about their parents and grandparents. Bake some Anzac biscuits! You may even choose to hold a private memorial. For those who have recently lost loved ones, this may be the first year without someone special they’d normally spend the day with. What better way to celebrate their lives than with some time set aside to remember. As a community, perhaps we can plan a later commemoration once the lockdown is lifted. As an imported kiwi - my younger years being spent in the UK - I also remember Armistice Day on 11th November. Let’s hope that by the time November rolls around we’ll have this virus corralled and we’ll be able to come together again. Whatever you choose to do this 25th April, please stay at home. Stay safe. The sooner we realise the isolation is for our safety, the sooner we’ll be able to enjoy those freedoms that were earned for us. This is perhaps the closest thing to ‘sacrifice’ that most of us will ever have to make for our country. If that is the case, then I can feel absolutely no disappointment at all.

ATTENTION

BUILDERS, DEVELOPERS & LANDSCAPERS

Have you ordered grafted kiwifruit, rootstock or shelter belt plants for this season?

Aggregates Available at Gammans! > Gap Metals > Drainage Metal > Crusher Dust > Sealing Chip > Builders Mix > Washed Sand > Decorative Stone

We have plants available now

Call Mike on 021 315 153 OR email info@forevergreen.co.nz

OPEN TO PUBLIC Mon-Fri 8am – 5pm ● Sat 8am – 3pm

Phone 07 548 0894

We are a KVH certified nursery located in Te Puna.

49 Plummers Point Road, Tauranga

Turn off opposite Gull Whakamarama. Delivery Available

www.gammans.co.nz

KPCS Standard

HARRY MADDOX JEWELLERY AND DESIGN • Hand, Lawn & Ride-On Mowers • Chainsaws • Weedeaters • Bicycle Accessories

SPECIALISING IN REPAIRS, RESTORATION AND CUSTOM-MADE JEWELLERY

SALES • SERVICING • REPAIRS We repair & service all makes & models of ride-ons, hand mowers & power equipment. Call to discuss your needs.

NEW BIG DOG RIDE-ONS IN STORE NOW! Call in to organise a demo of these top quality, zero-turn mowers

KATIKATI MOWERS & CYCLES 07 549 0343 | 4 Main Road, Katikati (opposite Beach Road)

| Lizard News | April 2020

Watch batteries and repairs.

Stocking a range of silver and gold jewellery.

Stockists of G Shock and Boccia Titanium Watches. Manufacturing Jewellers

18 Main Road, Katikati • 07 549 2592 • harrymaddoxjewellery@gmail.com

lizardnews.net

The poppy and the pea Synopsis: Tonka the Red By Lorraine Wilks Fragrance of Flowers orldwide, the poppy is a symbol of war remembrance. The Flanders poppy has been linked with battlefield deaths since the Great War (1914-1918) because they were the first plants to grow and bloom in the muddy fields of Flanders. Every year the RSA sells poppies on Poppy Day which is on the Friday before Anzac Day (unless that day is Good Friday). Sadly, this year, Poppy Day has been cancelled due to the COVID-19 lockdown. The RSA plans to reschedule Poppy Day to coincide with Armistice Day. Back in 1921, New Zealand planned to hold its first Poppy Day appeal around the time of Armistice Day, which modelled what other countries were doing at that time. However, the ship carrying the poppies from France arrived too late for the scheme to be properly promoted so the Association decided to wait until the

day before Anzac Day in 1922. A hundred years later and the poppy is still used to honour the men and women who fought in the Great War, and in subsequent wars – but is it possible that there could be a similar flower with the same symbolic power? Australian florist Hazel Davies learned that Australian’s indigenous people have been using the desert pea flower for memorials, remembrance and restoration. Their history is recorded through storytelling, and when Hazel researched these stories she discovered that this little wildflower is equivalent to the Flanders poppy as it symbolises blood spilt on the ground from the battlefield. The poppy and the desert pea are both powerful symbols for war remembrance but neither of them is suitable as a cut flower. Artificial poppies and desert peas are made in Australia, with the desert pea becoming a popular choice to be worn on clothing or used in wreaths laid on Anzac Day and Armistice Day.

Sturt’s desert pea (blood flower) backed with rosemary, by Hazel Davies.

Tonka the Red by Alan McCaughan his is a simply written story of Tonka, an ordinary New Zealand horse, and how he went from a farm-hack-cum-pig-hunting horse to an amazing journey, halfway around the world, to compete as part of a team at the World Championship Endurance Race. The story tells us about his life and that of his rider, who at the age of sixtyone, thought his chances of representing his country in any sport had long gone. The author is a retired farmer and first-time book author and has been married to Joy for sixty years. He has three grown children, with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He

still rides horses occasionally when the opportunity arises for pig hunting and sheepdog trials. Alan is still actively involved in sheepdog trials, competing and assisting at events. He lives in Katikati, New Zealand, and is still active and enjoying life. Tonka the Red by Alan McCaughan is published by Austin Macauley Publishers and is available on Austinmacauley.com and Amazon and all good booksellers.

Councils oth the District and Regional Councils have shifted from business as usual to emergency committees to streamline decision-making during the pandemic response. All Council, and Community Board meetings, workshops as well as Ward Forums are suspended until further notice. The Regional Council’s emergency committee has a membership of three councillors and a quorum of just two. Chair Doug Leeder says this allows for “swift decisions and delegated responsibility” in extraordinary times. The Western Bay District emergency committee has four members to “quickly adapt to the rapidly-changing situation and provide a fast response,” says Mayor Garry Webber.

FOTHERINGHAME CONTRACTORS LTD www.fotheringhamecontractors.co.nz

Using our advertisers?

Say you saw them in the Lizard News! Their advert pays to print the news you're reading.

We will remember them

From Bulk Earthworks to Civil Finishing works • Driveways • Civil Drainage & Road Construction • Site Preparation • Land Development • R.O.W Subdivisions • Earthworks • Contouring • Land Development • Earthworks • Tree Removal • Topsoil Supply and Cartage • Metal Cartage • Engineered Retaining Wall • Bridge Construction • General Construction • Concrete Work

07 549 2775

4 Main Road, Katikati

www.fragranceofflowers.co.nz

Call now for a free, no-obligation quote!

fothcon@xtra.co.nz | 07 549 3576 April 2020 | Lizard News |

lizardnews.net

The little club with a big serve

By Sharon Parker his month’s tennis news starts with a touch of sadness and a huge vote of thanks to our erstwhile Club Captain Jeff Warren, who has stepped down from his role in the face of mounting commitments that have dragged him in other directions. Our monthly news will unfortunately no longer contain that trademark “Jeff humour” that we have come to look forward to for a bit of a laugh while catching up on tennis news. We will miss you Jeff, and hope that one day you find the space and energy to rejoin us. As I write this article Tennis NZ has cancelled all organised events until at least 2nd May 2020 and advised our club do likewise. In response, we have regretfully cancelled our club championships, interclub competition, club days, junior coaching and tennis fitness until further notice. So, until Coronavirus scuttled our carefully laid plans, what was going on? Our team of dedicated Junior Interclub players did so well last year that they were promoted a division. With 5 out of 6 games completed at the time of writing, they have acquitted themselves very well, putting in the hard yards and holding their own in some really close matches, of which they have won three. Coach Pete has been a great support to the team, and even managed to squeeze them into Thursday night coaching at Te Puna because Ōmokoroa junior coaching on Saturday mornings clashes with the interclub competition. The boys have really improved under Pete’s tutelage, and have thoroughly enjoyed the competi-

tion. A shout out to ITM Ōmokoroa who have generously sponsored team uniforms. Over December/January OCTC for the first time hosted a business house tennis competition. Held on Thursday evenings, it was a continuation of the business house held at Ōtūmoetai, which took a break over the holiday period. The standard of play was excellent, and even with no pavilion and only portaloos for convenience the participants thoroughly enjoyed playing at Ōmokoroa and gave really positive feedback about our venue. We are keen to host a similar competition again next December/January, Coronavirus permitting. It’s going to be wonderful once the pavilion is completed and we can back our competitions with a up kitchen/lounge, lovely clean toilets and decent showering facilities. We are pleased and proud to be supporting the Ōmokoroa Sports and Recreation Society in planning and fundraising for this awesome facility. We have had a men’s team entered in the A2 Division of the Tennis Western Bays Friday Night Interclub competition. They’ve played well and were on track to gain second place out of the four teams entered. Unfortunately, due to the cancellation of the competition, they were unable to play the final game. Co-ordinated by Andrew Dallas, the team included Keith Bardwell, Brendon Coles, Andrew Easton, Richard Garlick and Jonty Jenkins. So that’s our news summary, and as one tennis ball said to the other – see you ‘round.

What is Community Patrol?

By Matthew Farrell ave you ever wondered about the role of Community Patrol, and the difference between the Patrol and the Police? If you see suspicious behaviour, observe from a distance. You can call 111 if the situation warrants it, eg if you heard breaking glass or banging to force entry. For immediate risk to human life or property, you should call 111, or if a burglary just happened and offenders are nearby. 105 is a crime reporting line for events which have already occurred. NZ Police also has online reporting options and a new App. Community Patrol across NZ is simply the “eyes and ears” of the Police. The Patrol does not have an on-call or incident response capability or remit, and the cell phone number is not published. Community Patrols of New Zealand (CPNZ) is a national organisation that was formed in 2002. CPNZ is funded at a National level by New Zealand Police and New Zealand Government, with the CPNZ National Office being based at Po-

lice National Headquarters in the National Prevention Centre. The CPNZ National Office supports over 5,000 volunteers in over 170 affiliated Community Patrols throughout New Zealand. Community Patrols are organised and operated by their local communities and raise their annual operating expenses through local grants, sponsorship and donations. Each Patrol caters to the needs of its local community, Patrolling where and when best supports the local Police and the local community. In partnership with others, we prevent crime and reduce harm through the active presence of trained patrollers. CPNZ’s vision is a New Zealand where everyone feels safe and therefore our volunteers work closely with Police as extra “eyes and ears” through intelligence and observation to assist Police and other agencies to build safer communities. Community Patrols are independent of the Police but receive regular Police guidance, training and tasking. Find out more at cpnz.org.nz

Police Information Centre mokoroa has a Police Information Centre office at the library. It is closed until further notice due to the COVID-19 situation. It is typically open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9am to 11am and the Community Constable is sometimes available.

The schedule of trained volunteers is managed locally. The PIC may be used to report nonemergency events, similar to the 105 service. Written reports are emailed through to the Police. Volunteers can also phone Tauranga Police while you are present if required.

Be informed, get involved, use Antenno ntenno is a mobile app that sends you alerts and notifications, about places and topics you care about. There are two ways you can use Antenno; receive notifications from Council about the places you have marked as important to you, or reporting back to Council on issues or feedback. Antenno lets you choose the places you want to be alerted about, so you’re not being alerted about things that don’t affect you. You can have multiple “Places” which could be the area you live in, work or where your holiday home is for example. You can expect to see updates from

Ōmokoroa ITM has sponsored shirts for the Junior Interclub team. PHOTO: Supplied.

council on community events, matters up for consultation, water shutdowns, changes to rubbish collections and much more. You can also get involved and report community issues or submit ideas with Antenno. Antenno is a useful channel that you can feed information back to us and Council will receive instant alerts. The app won’t ask you for any personal information or login details, making it an easy download. It’s free to download on your phone from the App Store or Google Play, just search “Antenno”. Article supplied.

Take back control of your anxiety NOW Without medication

Visit us and see the difference The Garden is beautifully and thoughtfully set up with natural and recycled materials to create a home away from home for children aged 3 months to 6 years.

Stick together, support locals when you can, and stay safe

High Teacher: Child Ratio • Open 7:30am to 6pm. Situated in easy access to State Highway 2. Locally owned and operated. Real grass, real trees and lots of space to explore.

From the girls at Topz 236 Omokoroa Road, Tauranga 3172

7a Prole Road • 07 548 2036 • www.thegarden.co.nz • info@thegarden.co.nz

| Lizard News | April 2020

07 548 1440

CBT, NLP AND CONFIDENCE COACH

027 538 3777• www.anxietynomore.co.nz Online video chat sessions

lizardnews.net

Staying vigilant over the weekends Neighbourhood Support By Cathy Taylor and Annabel Reyes eople often ask why Neighbourhood Support exists. All those reasons can be hard to articulate so I checked out what the organisation Neighbours Day Aotearoa has to say. Their top five reasons for connecting with our neighbours are: well-being, caring and safety, empowerment, inclusion, and resilience. At a time like this, it is even more important to reach out to our neighbours particularly older people or those who may be more vulnerable to COVID-19. Neighbours Day Aotearoa ran from 27th March to 5th April. They hoped to

inspire people to do something big or small to reach out to those around them with acts of kindness. A big shout out to Vista Close for their high visibility of Neighbourhood Support stickers. Visibility of stickers and street signs is a real deterrent for criminal activity so please get those stickers on your letterbox or windows. Ask your Street Coordinator if you need a sticker. Do you know someone on Lakeside Terrace that would make a good Street Coordinator? Call or text Cathy. Your Ōmokoroa Neighbourhood Support area coordinators are Cathy Taylor 021 704 686, and Annabel Reyes 021 445 476. nsomokoroa@wbopns.org.nz

Does this mean me? By Acting Inspector Mark Pakes e trust this message finds you all well and our thanks to everyone for their efforts so far as we work our way through the unique set of circumstances we find ourselves in. I know it has been said many times already, but we really are in uncharted waters and are all being asked to operate in ways we are not used to. This includes giving up luxuries and activities that we may have taken for granted as part of our everyday lives. As we head towards week three of the lockdown, it is important that we keep sight of the goal – which is to be united in our fight against Covid -19. We all know what we have to do. We have to stay home. We have had lots of feedback and questions about what this actually means? Can I do this? Can I do that? Does this mean me? Yes, it does and yes it is that simple. Stay home – save lives. It doesn’t mean spend half of the day at the beach, or go for a drive across the Western Bay to go for a bike ride and put

others at risk. The message is clear - stay home. We all know we can head out for food and medicine or to complete our work as part of an essential service. But outside of that? Unless it’s a bit of exercise in your own neighbourhood, stay home, please. The rest of New Zealand will thank you for it. A number of questions have also been raised about essential businesses and how staff employed by them are identified as they move around while the Level 4 restrictions are in place. Information on this can be found on the Government website covid19.govt.nz. This website also contains a comprehensive list of the types of businesses defined as essential. It is this website that should be relied upon as a single point of truth for all matters that relate to Covid-19. My final challenge to us all is this. Rather than manipulating the guidelines to find a way that will best fit what you would like to do in your day, let’s instead use them for the purpose that they were written, which is to keep us safe and to save lives in our community. Be kind - Stay safe.

Do you have any rental income?

e.g Overseas properties, Air BnB, New Zealand properties

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

ay of Plenty Civil Defence and Emergency Management is reminding people about what’s required during lockdown over the weekends and the importance not to return to “normal life” during the national state of emergency across New Zealand. Group Controller Angela Reade says people must not travel to and from baches or second homes. “It’s crucial you don’t leave the house on the weekend. This breaks the chain and stops the virus spreading. Stay home. Save Lives,” Angela says. “Despite it still feeling like summer in some areas of our region, we can’t put any extra pressure on the emergency services which need to respond to the COVID-19 situation. This means sticking to safe activities and avoiding swimming, surfing, hunting and tramping.” “Keep exercise solitary or with people in your bubble.” Challenges currently being faced by CDEM groups across New Zealand include finding ways to best care for transient people including tourists, campers and the homeless. Every effort is being made to find accommodation or suitable locations for them to self-isolate. In Rotorua, homeless people have been provided temporary accommoda-

tion by the Ministry of Social Development, while in Whakatāne they are being cared for by the Salvation Army. In Tauranga, the Ministry of Social Development is still working with local agencies to set up support for homeless people. “Further local welfare needs assessment and support systems are being established and we will share details of those once confirmed. In the meantime, people should contact the free government helpline on 0800 779 997 if they require assistance,” Angela says “We have people in campervans and while many may be self-contained, most have nowhere to park up. Everything is being done to make sure people get the assistance they need to comply with the self-isolation requirements.” Gathering together for funerals and tangi is not permitted while New Zealand is at Alert Level 4. Noho Tawhiti. Tū Kotahi - Sit at a distance. Stand as one. For COVID-19 update Go to covid19.govt.org for more information During lockdown, we may experience all sorts of things: anxiety, loneliness, fear. Need to talk? Freephone or text 1737. Article supplied.

Introducing our new Community Constable By Edward (Timo) Gardiner am Constable Edward Gardiner. Everybody calls me Timo.

I am born and bred in Tauranga and have been in the Police for six years, most of that time spent on the frontline in Tauranga Central. I have moved into the community space looking for a change in Policing. I realise it is a hugely important part in working with community groups to keep our communities safe. I have only been in the role for a few weeks and have been blown away by the amount of volunteer work and people who are passionate about keeping their neighbourhoods safe.

Professional Handyman

• 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

I have a wife and two young children. I love sport, especially rugby and basketball, and I am looking forward to moving ahead with community groups in the Tauranga area. Ōmokoroa has awesome volunteer groups dedicated to keeping the Ōmokoroa community safe. In terms of crime trends in the area, Ōmokoroa has one of, if not the lowest, crime rates in the Tauranga area. I can honestly say there are no serious crime trends that I can see in the area - but still a bit of petty crime, drug use and a small scattering of gang activity from time to time - but this is common no matter what area you live in. I can be contacted on 07 577 4307 and egdp21@police.govt.nz

Quality architectural new homes and renovations.

Call us today to discuss your upcoming build.

07 578 6550 | www.reside.nz

Peter Alford

548 0024 • 021 181 1060

April 2020 | Lizard News |

lizardnews.net

Boat diesel theft

Four residents have offered to monitor the moorings. PHOTO: Chris Reynolds.

By Hugh Reynolds ooring owners want security and peace of mind. While it is our personal responsibility to deal with seagull poo, security should be viewed as the collective responsibility of all boaties who occupy a mooring. An earlier request was made to the Harbourmaster for contact details of mooring licensees. On the grounds of confidentiality, this request was declined. It has also been proposed the Police may wish to become involved, but while Covid - 19 is with us, I suggest they have bigger fish to fry. Although uninvited entry onto moored boats is spasmodic, when it does occur it is disturbing for the boating community. The two recently reported cases of diesel burglary have reignited the need for

greater awareness and action by the boating community. To this end, I have instigated the establishment of a telephone tree to include details of all who are tied to a mooring. It will work in the same manner as ‘Neighbourhood Support’. All those who occupy a mooring are invited to submit personal and boat details to hugh.heather.reynolds@gmail.com. Four local residents, who overlook the entire Ōmokoroa mooring area, have volunteered to keep watch and report any unusual activity. This can then be relayed to the boat owner. A request has also been extended to the wider community to report any suspicious behaviour. Not all owners of moored boats live on the peninsula. If you know any of them, please pass this message on.

Connecting COMMUNITIES

Local people

Local news

Local opinions

Local ownership

Your community newspaper, part of the independent community newspaper network.

www.cna.org.nz 16

| Lizard News | April 2020

The gratifying number of recent responses has identified the need and willingness of the boating community. It is hoped this action will also act

as a deterrent. As a postscript, thanks to all those people living along The Esplanade who keep watch over our dinghies.

Summer sailing

By John Budden unday 22nd March was the last Kārewa Race of the summer. Signing on were in trailer yachts Wayfarer with Andrew and Geoff, Picaninny with Alan and John, keelers were, Diversion with Jo and Paul, Little Gem with Richard Miller and Bruce Willoughby, Invincible with the “Miller Boys” and Goldie with Phil Baker and crew. The start was at 11.11 at Panepane wharf with a course to B buoy and leaving Kārewa to port then returning on the same course to finish at Panepane. We were warned of two shipping movements.in the entry, a car carrier was due at A beacon at 11.00 and a freighter at 14.00. All yachts were warned to keep the main channel clear for both ships. The breeze was NW and as usual flukey in the entry. First out was Wayfarer followed by Invincible and Goldie then Little Gem and Picaninny. The Ship was huge and that coupled with two tugs and the pilot launch made life exciting. Little Gem had a real close look as she tacked to clear the narrows. We all headed out to sea before heading for the island. Most went well

out to sea, but on Picaninny we chose an inshore course and all I can say was that it was very lumpy and somewhat wet! Diversion, Wayfarer, Little Gem and Goldie turned for home ahead of us and it took us three hours to clear the rock. Coming home was a blast and we covered the six nautical miles in just over an hour. Diversion met the freighter in the entry but finished 1st, Wayfarer 2nd by 30 minutes, Little Gem 3rd by 10 minutes, Picaninny 4th by 10 minutes, Goldie 5th by 5 minutes and Invincible did not finish having retired. That was one of the toughest Kārewa events for some years. Well done all especially Jo and Paul and the crew of Wayfarer and also Alan for his balancing act! Due to Covid-19 that was our last sail of the summer. Line winner is Andrew and Wayfarer with 34 points, second is John with Picaninny on 26 points and third The Miller boys on 20 points. Handicap winner is Picaninny with 32 points, 2nd Wayfarer on 25 points and third equal are Wayleggo, Invincible and Goldie on 19 points. Well done all, now for the winter series.

Wage subsidy details ork and Income has a wage subsidy available to support employers affected by COVID-19. All New Zealand employers who have been adversely affected by COVID-19 are eligible to apply. This includes registered charities, Non-government organisations (NGOs), the self-employed and sole traders, contractors, incorporated societies, and post-settlement governance entities. If you’re an employer, contractor, sole trader or self-employed, you may qualify to get the COVID-19 wage subsidy. To qualify, your business must be registered and operating in New Zealand, and your employees are legally working in New Zealand. The business must have experienced a minimum 30% decline in actual or predicted revenue over the period of a month when compared with the same month last year, and that decline is related to COVID-19. Your business must have taken active steps to mitigate the impact of COVID-19, and you must retain

the employees named in your application for the period of the subsidy. For definitions of these qualifications, see the information on the Work and Income website under the ‘Definitions for Wage Subsidy qualifications’. The COVID-19 Wage Subsidy will be paid at a flat rate of $585.80 for people working 20 hours or more per week (full-time rate), $350.00 for people working less than 20 hours per week (parttime rate). The subsidy is paid as a lump sum and covers 12 weeks per employee. If you work variable hours (or your employee does), you can use an average to work out what rate to apply for. Use the average hours worked each week over the last 12 months, or over the period of time you (or they) have been employed (if it’s less than 12 months). If the average hours are 20 or more, apply for the full-time rate and they are less than 20, apply for the part-time rate. Visit workandincome.govt.nz for full information about the subsidy.

lizardnews.net

Ōmokoroa Artists take the copy out of copyright By Jackie Knotts t the last meeting of the Ōmokoroa Artists group Murray Clode, from Macandmor Gallery in Goddards Centre, gave a very informative talk about copyright, a subject he is familiar with as an artist and gallery owner. Murray has used the image of the NZ buzzy bee toy, albeit with some changes, in his work. Firstly making changes to an image does not alter the copyright law. Murray sought permission from the copyright owner and pays a small percentage of the proceeds of the sales of his work. In New Zealand, copyright of an image lasts for 50 years after the death of its creator. In the UK and US, it is 70 years. Photographs in books, magazines, newspapers and images of work on the internet are also protected by copyright. The purpose of copyright law is to protect the creator and their sole right to make, reproduce or distribute their own work. So how is this relevant to the work of Ōmokoroa Artists members who frequently diligently copy images from reproductions and photographs. Actually copying another artist’s work is a very valid way to study and learn techniques, use of colour, composition etc. If you have visited galleries here and overseas you will have seen students

with easels set up in front of a painting which they are copying. This knowledge can then be used in their own original work. If you copy work from photographs you have taken then you are not in breach of copyright and usually you will have made changes for expressive and compositional reasons. Its a good idea to keep evidence of your creative process should you ever be accused of copying another person’s work. If you do copy another person’s image, do not exhibit it! Is there a difference between copying and appropriation of an image? My definition of appropriation is sourcing information which can then be used to express your own ideas. There are images which you will never be able to see first hand. Photographs can be a valuable reference but by their nature lack some information. Nothing beats life drawing if you need to understand the structure of the human body for instance. The internet is an endless source of images. Some are subject to copyright and some can be used free of charge. In the current environment of restricted movement and interaction, artwork can be a very rewarding activity and there will be increased use of virtual exhibitions and online sales. Knowing about copyright is very useful at this time of increased reliance on the internet.

Ōmokoroa Playcentre e’ve had a great term 1 start at Ōmokoroa Playcentre. With the population growth in Ōmokoroa we’ve seen lots of new families join this term and it’s lovely to have new faces, energy and perspective at the centre. Joining your local Playcentre is a great way to meet other families in your area and make life long friends for you and your kids. Everyone enjoyed the visit to the blueberry farm in February where we picked and sampled the produce before taking plenty home. The farm cat was a big hit as was the homemade ice cream. It was great to see mums, dads and grandparents come along for the outing. On session, we’ve been spending lots of time outdoors enjoying our new barrel swing, the trapeze swing, jumping & running around the fort and playing in the sandpit. We made footprints of our tamariki in plaster of Paris as a fun activity seeing how the soft playdough made the imprint then how the plaster hardened and the footprint remained. We’ve been learning math and literacy through our process cooking - measuring and weighing ingredients and, of course, enjoying the end result together. Our July

babies are growing up and starting to crawl and explore the centre with their siblings and friends. We look forward to seeing families back when the lockdown is over. In the meantime, please do not use the Playcentre facilities. We have someone checking the property regularly for security, pest control and pet feeding duties. By being in our bubble you are putting them and their whānau at risk. So please be respectful and stay home. If you see any misadventures at Playcentre please report them to 105 and to us directly. @OmokoroaPlaycentre and 548 1343. Article supplied.

Hanging out in the barrel swing.

Football on hold e hope that our community and club families are keeping safe (and sane) during this unprecedented time. As the situation concerning COVID-19 is one that is rapidly changing, the Ōmokoroa Football Club feels it is vital that we take the necessary and relevant precautions advised by health professionals. As a club, we are guided by WAIBOP with relation to the upcoming season and related events and competitions. WAIBOP has cancelled all community football until 2nd May - at this point which was the originally scheduled date for the start of the 2020 season competition grading games. This cancellation

Lizard News

also includes all WAIBOP courses being run between now and the beginning of the season (Coaching and Refereeing Courses), Futsal and other pre-season related WAIBOP events. While we’re all locked down, behind the scenes, the club is still readying for the upcoming season in case 2nd May becomes the start day for the 2020 season. If the season does not go ahead, we will refund your fees or if easier, carry these over to 2021. With lockdown now in place, all training sessions, our club working bee, open day, coaching sessions and boot swap will all take place at a later date to be arranged. Keep safe and be kind! Article supplied.

Te Puna

07 548 1200

Please call to enquire about our free professional ad design. We can support your business with photos, logos or ideas.

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

Enjoying a trip to the blueberry farm. PHOTOS: Supplied.

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

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

Come along to Playcentre for a morning of FREE PLAY and exploration of the senses first 3 visits free 0-6 yr olds welcome

OPEN 9.15am to 12.00pm Wed and Thurs 225 Te Puna Road, Te Puna 5525153 | tepuna@playcentre.org.nz

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

Proudly sponsored by

Across 1. Support (7) 5. Material used on bow strings (5) 8. Compensation (9) 9. Pompous fool (3) 10. Smile contemptuously (5) 12. Median (7) 13. Treachery (6-7) 15. Late (7) 17. Stiff (5)

5. Verse (5) 6. Ocean-going (9) 7. Savings (4,3) 11. In high spirits (9) 13. Bishop’s territory (7) 14. Shorten (text) (7) 16. Frumpy (5) 18. Apparel (5) 21. Sick (3)

19. Generation (3) 20. Global (9) 22. Access (5) 23. Climbing frame (7) Down 1. Extreme happiness (5) 2. Fish (3) 3. Unethical (7) 4. Suffer in a stoical manner (4,3,4,2)

BENMORE BRUNNER COLERIDGE DUNSTAN ELLESMERE HAUROKO HAWEA KANIERE MANAPOURI McKERROW MONOWAI

R O S U Z E M O A O O P A C Z N O Z

OHAKURI OHAU OKARITO OKATAINA OMAPERE POTERITERI PUKAKI ROTOAIRA ROTOITI ROTOMATA ROTORUA

O P N L B R P P S N R J U X K U A T

T A U A Y I A M O W O R R E K C M W

O K D E B D O M M K P B O F E M Y V

I E V W T G H G I R U K T H U C X L

T T Y A I E A A T M A U O C O K B R

Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

I G A H X D U O E M T A R A W E R A

MEDIUM

Follow the news updates online at lizardnews.net and facebook.com/lizardnews

TARAWERA TAUPO TE WHANGA TE ANAU TEKAPO WAIKARE WAIRARAPA WAKATIPU WANAKA

Sudoku

Wordsearch

All puzzles © The Puzzle Company

I G A H X D U O E M T A R A W E R A

I N T W H L G M T R K W U E A H K S

T T Y A I E A A T M A U O C O K B R

R W A W H O N O A E A R A K K N A E

I E V W T G H G I R U K T H U C X L

U A N A S C M C F R R R A I A G T R

O K D E B D O M M K P B O F E M Y V

O K O G X A S H P J I I I N I K A E

T A U A Y I A M O W O R R E K C M W

P A K N T H H T G V T A T A V X I M

O P N L B R P P S N R J U X K U A T

A T O A X R M C Q L O N O E W I N S

R O S U Z E M O A O O P A C Z N O Z

N I R H H W E R A K I A W T R Y A E

I N T W H L G M T R K W U E A H K S

A P U W B E N M O R E Y Y M O I S L

R W A W H O N O A E A R A K K N A E

M U A E V V S G L U A N A E T R N L

U A N A S C M C F R R R A I A G T R

X G H T B R U N N E R E P A M O U E

O K O G X A S H P J I I I N I K A E

U E D O H A K U R I Q E R E I N A K

P A K N T H H T G V T A T A V X I M

A T O A X R M C Q L O N O E W I N S

N I R H H W E R A K I A W T R Y A E

A P U W B E N M O R E Y Y M O I S L

M U A E V V S G L U A N A E T R N L

Sudoku

X G H T B R U N N E R E P A M O U E

Wordsearch: New Zealand lakes

U E D O H A K U R I Q E R E I N A K

Quick crossword

lizardnews.net

Across: 1. Backing, 5. Rosin, 8. Indemnity, 9. Ass, 10. Sneer, 12. Average, 13. Double-dealing, 15. Overdue, 17. Rigid, 19. Era, 20. Worldwide, 22. Entry, 23. Trellis. Down: 1. Bliss, 2. Cod, 3. Immoral, 4. Grin and bear it, 5. Rhyme, 6. Seafaring, 7. Nest egg, 11. Exuberant, 13. Diocese, 14. Abridge, 16. Dowdy, 18. Dress, 21. Ill.

Omokoroa Tide Chart April 2020 Omokoroa Tides

Fishing Guide Moon Phase

Omokoroa Tides

Fishing Guide Moon Phase

1 Wed 2:06 8:19 14:24 20:43

2 Thu 1.8 0.5 1.8 0.4

1.8 0.5 1.7 0.4

R 14:27 17 Fri 3:27 9:31 15:44 21:49

2:56 9:11 15:15 21:35

3 Fri

1.8 0.5 1.7 0.5

R 0:46 S 15:13

1.8 0.5 1.7 0.4

S 0:09 R 15:22 18 Sat 4:21 10:27 16:41 22:46

3:52 10:08 16:13 22:33

4 Sat

1.8 0.5 1.7 0.5

R 1:44 S 15:45

*Not for navigational purposes

1.8 0.4 1.8 0.3

4:56 11:11 17:22 23:35

R 2:42 S 16:13

S 2:15 R 16:57 20 Mon 6:04 1.8 12:12 0.4 18:28 1.7

1.8 0.4 1.8 0.3

0:31 6:51 12:59 19:16

7 Tue

5:58 1.9 12:12 0.3 18:26 1.9

0:35 6:56 13:10 19:27

S 2:25 R 16:37 21 Tue 0.5 1.8 0.4 1.8

R 3:39 S 16:39

6 Mon

S 1:08 R 16:12 19 Sun 5:14 11:21 17:36 23:40

4:53 11:09 17:16 23:34

5 Sun

1:33 7:52 14:06 20:23

0.4 1.8 0.4 1.8

2:01 8:16 14:25 20:42

Tide chart supplied by OceanFun Publishing, Ltd.

0.1 2.0 0.1 2.0

0.4 1.8 0.4 1.8

2:42 8:55 15:05 21:21

R 6:29 S 17:57

0.4 1.8 0.3 1.8

R 7:26 S 18:25

www.ofu.co.nz

omokoroa Proud to Support

Our Community 160 Omokoroa Rd, Omokoroa. Open 7am – 9pm, 7 days. Phone 281 1577.

| Lizard News | April 2020

Owned and operated by locals

2:27 8:46 14:58 21:17

10 Fri 0.1 2.1 0.1 2.1

S 6:07 R 18:22 24 Fri

R 5:32 S 17:30

9 Thu

S 4:53 R 17:48 23 Thu

R 4:36 S 17:04

0.2 2.0 0.2 2.0

S 3:39 R 17:13 22 Wed 1:17 7:35 13:43 20:00

8 Wed

0.1 2.1 0.0 2.1

S 7:22 R 18:56 25 Sat 3:22 9:33 15:44 21:59

3:21 9:38 15:50 22:09

11 Sat

0.4 1.8 0.3 1.8

R 8:25 S 18:56

0.1 2.1 0.0 2.1

S 8:37 R 19:34 26 Sun 4:02 10:11 16:23 22:37

4:13 10:29 16:40 23:01

12 Sun

0.4 1.8 0.3 1.8

R 9:25 S 19:32

0.1 2.0 0.1 2.0

S 9:50 R 20:15 27 Mon 4:43 10:50 17:03 23:17

5:04 11:20 17:29 23:52

13 Mon

0.4 1.8 0.3 1.8

R 10:25 S 20:14

S 11:00 R 21:01 28 Tue 5:26 11:31 17:45 23:59

5:56 0.2 12:10 2.0 18:19 0.2

0.4 1.8 0.3 1.8

R 11:23 S 21:03

S 12:06 R 21:53 29 Wed 6:11 0.4 12:15 1.8 18:31 0.3 G

R 12:18 S 21:59

14 Tue 0:44 6:48 13:01 19:09

15 Wed 2.0 0.3 1.9 0.2

1.9 0.3 1.8 0.3

S 13:04 R 22:48 30 Thu 0:46 7:00 13:03 19:19

1:37 7:41 13:53 20:00

16 Thu

S 13:54 R 23:46

2:31 8:36 14:48 20:54

1.8 0.4 1.7 0.4

S 14:37

1.8 0.4 1.8 0.3

R 13:08 S 23:01

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

lizardnews.net

Perseverance the key to success By Taryn Johnson of Maths Mattas hen you learn you increase your brain capacity, you get brainier. Learning exercises the brain, making it work harder and grow stronger. You do not need to be top of the class, the best at your sport or the most accomplished in your field for the learning process to make you brainier. Mistakes are a good thing and an essential part of learning. You learn more by making a mistake than by doing nothing and hoping the skill will somehow magically become part of your repertoire. When you make a mistake, you gain from it. Mistakes mean you are trying, trying means you are persevering and perseverance is one of the most important requirements for success. Perseverance is the road that must be travelled to go from failure or a mistake to success. The difference between a failing student and a successful student is not natural ability, home life, personality or socio-

economic background. The difference is the practice (or lack thereof) of perseverance. You do not need to understand how to do it all, you only need to work out what you can do next. Keep trying. Humans, all of us, were born with that ability to keep trying. The fact that you learned to walk clearly demonstrates this. As babies moving into the toddler stage we fell over a lot! And not one of us gave up because “It’s too hard” or “I’m no good at this” or “I’ll never be able to do this”. Yet how many times do we sell ourselves short by sitting on our butts thinking one of those thoughts or similar? A few minutes on the internet reveals many, many examples of success stories that required perseverance after massive failure. For example, Ford of Ford cars had 26 failed businesses before he achieved success. Think about that and keep learning. Persevere by taking the next step and grow your brain.

Ōmokoroa Environmental Managers LEFT: Approximately 6000 Bartail Godwits on the Mangawhai Bay sandbar waiting for the tide to turn. PHOTO: Murray Grainger. RIGHT: The Anchor Stone by Ashley Grant at Ōmokoroa Domain. PHOTO: Supplied.

By Heather Reynolds here are always things happening behind the scenes on the peninsula. Ōmokoroa Environmental Managers Inc (OEMI) met last month and is happy to report lots of activity. Following the generosity of some residents and local businesses, the long-awaited park bench seating installation is nigh.* Karen Loten was instrumental in kicking off this project with seed funding from the Ōmokoroa Community Board, and when she moved away Jan Mayston took up the challenge of finding further community funding for the seats. The WBOPDC along with Downers will be working to have this completed in a timely fashion.* There is still time to get your name or the name of a loved one on a seat. A $2000 donation to OEMI will suffice and the IRD will refund you 33%. Call Jan on 548 2299. “The birds are singing in great numbers”, reports by Jose Law of Ōmokoroa Pest Free. Great results thanks to those who monitor the bait stations. The outside protective line continues to have consistent rat kill with very little activity in the centre of the peninsula. More bird sightings include Kererū, Bellbird, Quail families, Tūī in good number, and Morepork. Fantails and Silver Eye have returned to gardens with their young. The Trakka Box results show a low 6-7% of rat population. The Ōmokoroa History Group has replaced faded photos in the frames at Ōmokoroa Point School and assisted at the proposed student reunion in October. Chris and Warwick Wright were involved in the day history trip from Plummers Point to Katikati for the Pahoia School. The recent speakers were Maree Lewis of the Founders Society and Norm Bruning gave a potted history of the Bruning farm 1867 – 2020. ANZAC day is rolling around again on 25th April. A dawn service was planned on the point in Crapp Reserve on Gel-

librand Place as in previous years, to include the wreathlaying. Subsequent events have meant this will not go ahead but we will optimistically plan for 2021. The Ōmokoroa Public Art Group marked the arrival of the Anchor Stone down on the Domain foreshore in October. It certainly is a stunning sculpture by Ashley Grant, who has also joined OPAG. The replacement Lizard is another project on the go with Ōmokoroa ITM generously sponsoring the new lizard. Other projects include artwork as part of the new playground at the Domain. Our Chair Murray Grainger is keen to develop regular groups to take ownership of the easier weeding, trimming, litter pick up, etc around the peninsula. The Council are better off taking care of the bigger issues of which there are many. Currently, there is an active Cooney Reserve Care Group and the Crapp Reserve Team who meet regularly to deal with tidy up issues. He sees the regular working bees rolling from one area to the next on a monthly basis. Could be Kaimai Views walkway and new planting, cycleway sections, Precious Reserve, Lynley Park reserves and so on. It is preferable that we as residents take responsibility for our spaces and places. Even if it’s keeping the stormwater grills clear throughout the year. Could it be a street by street gathering? Could the Neighbourhood Co-ordinators get people to join in? We could become The Peninsula Pride Groups or Ōmokoroa Lovers? Perhaps register your interest for when we get out and about again. The OEMI Meeting minutes and Group Reports are also posted on the Ōmokoroa website for your perusal. omokoroa.org.nz. For further information, please contact me on 548 1620. *many planned events have now been delayed due to the lockdown.

The bull hitters By Matthew Farrell

n Sunday 22nd March, Ōmokoroa Boat Club hosted the annual members’ darts tournament to benefit the Ōmokoroa-Pahoia Sea Scouts troupe. Liz Farrell beat Steve Aldridge in the 501 final, after an eight-player 301 flying start knockout contest. Liz won a $50 OBC voucher with her double 11 finish, and Steve a $25 voucher as runner-up. Skippers chef Steve Clarke looked pretty handy with some casually thrown arrows afterwards. Luckily for Liz, he was doing sterling work in the restaurant kitchen during the fundraising contest.

Liz beat Angie Harris and OBC Commodore Tim Raeburn en-route to the final. PHOTO: Tim Raeburn.

Lizard Classifieds SERVICES

SERVICES

DIANE’S DÉCOR not just curtains!

Curtains • Roman Blinds Tracks • Rods • Rollerblinds Wooden Venetians • Shutters By appointment 10am-4pm dianesdecor@xtra.co.nz 548 1920 • 027 284 6543

Essential oils and aromatherapy support for your health and wellness Based in Omokoroa Contact Liz on omokoroaoils@gmail.com mydoterra.com/omokoroa

• Stump Grinding Tractor Mounted • Paddock Topping • Rotary Hoeing • Gorse & Pasture Spraying Ridgeview Partnership

Ph: 548 2177 or 027 2333 936

ONLINE TUITION Maths Mattas Mathematics, statistics & calculus tuition. Years 9-13. NZ qualified, experienced, practising teacher. Excellent results. TEXT 027 302 3440 EMAIL tarynj22@gmail.com

• Feel better • Ease pain • Relieve stress Offering Therapeutic, Sports, Relaxation, Pregnancy, or Hot Stone Massage Specialising in Myofascial Release Therapy *Gift vouchers available*

Andrea Van Klei (Registered Massage Therapist)

021 0818 4170 omokoroamassage.co.nz

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

Animal Homeopathy Natural support for your animal is possible while in isolation. Consultations via skype or phone and remedies sent to you. Specialising in Skin, Eye, Ear problems, Seizures, Fear, Anxiety. Homeopathy is safe and effective. Contact Hannelore: 548 0824

Members can share via Ōmokoroa Cyberlink community news and events to over 700 emails. Recent posts include: lost and found, free stuﬀ, requests for help, positions vacant, new local businesses, markets, WBoPDC updates, house rentals/sitters, and workshops. Join up at omokoroa.net where you can also access recent posts. Or email rick@omokoroa.net with your name and email address. Rick Peers.

FOR SALE

FIREWOOD For Sale Free delivery Katikati, shed stored, Ph 549 2141 027 778 7301 Govt. approved essential service for delivery NOW.

Looking for a low-cost option to buy/sell/trade? PUBLIC NOTICE

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

Call 548 1200.

April 2020 | Lizard News |

lizardnews.net

News in brief...

Appeal for witnesses

Police have released the name of a woman who died following a crash on State Highway 2 between Aongatete and Katikati on Wednesday 25th March. They’ve extended sympathies to the family of 24-year-old Lisa-Marie Kuku of Aongatete. Police continue to investigate the circumstances of the crash, which happened just before 8.30pm on the highway between Sharp Road and Hot Springs Road. Anyone in the area around that time should contact Tauranga Police on 105, quoting file number 200326/5401.

ing the shop to pay for your fuel first, you will receive a disposable glove, this is to be used as your protection at the EFTPoS pinpad and then again at the pump nozzle. This will also assist in the rise in drive-offs they have experienced. Staff are cleaning and sanitizing all counters, surfaces and pin pads often and sanitiser is available for customers use in-store. As with many shops, please, where possible, use the PayWave service provided and avoid cash payments. Fire closes businesses

Changes at Challenge

The blaze at the premises of mail order bulb and seed companies Garden Post and Wildflower World also affected neighbouring shops Sandali Home and Utterly Unique Possum Merino. The Sewing Room, and A Dogs’ Day grooming service were not affected by the fire at the Village, which is also home to Clarke Road Kitchen Eatery and Bay Accounting. Kayak-king

An Ōmokoroa Beach man who has just completed his first season of a kayak hire business at the Domain says it has been “well worthwhile” as an enterprise. Lawrence Daly intends to renew permission for next summer, potentially extending his season slightly from November to March. Lawrence sees great potential, with kayaking having corporate appeal as a team-building activity. Fund for community projects

Does your organisation have a special recreational project that needs extra funding? The District Council is inviting community organisations to bid for a slice of its $100,000 Facilities in the Community Fund. For application eligibility, criteria and details, visit Council’s website, but hurry! Applications close on Thursday 9th April. On 23rd March Challenge announced that they had moved to a pre-pay only system for fuel purchase. When enter-

A fire in February led to the pre-lockdown closure of three businesses based at the Clarke Road Village in Te Puna.

Beach Hop

The Beach Hop in Whangamatā has

been postponed until November. The decision is getting the tick of approval from Coromandel MP Scott Simpson. “Everyone will understand the reason why and how difficult the decision has been for organisers. But postponement is the right thing to do. “Although many people will now have Beach Hop plans frustrated, I look forward to seeing the festival back in action on the new dates of 25th-29th November,” he says. The hot rod, classic car, motorcycle and music festival has pulled in crowds of 100,000 or more for the past few years. Save our pipes from wipes

Wet wipes are blocking the wastewater system and costing ratepayers thousands of dollars a year to fix. The issue has become worse during the Level 4 lockdown. Remember, wet wipes don’t break down like toilet paper - even if they’re labelled as ‘flushable’ - they’re not! Dog walking

Heading out for a walk around the neighbourhood with your dog? Western Bay of Plenty District Council asks you to please keep them on a leash. This minimises the risk of attacks or accidents and helps you (and your dog) to maintain social distancing rules. Although it might be tempting, don’t go inviting friends on your walks. Try to go places where there’s less likely to be other people and dogs. And as always - make sure you pick up your pooch’s poop!

Real Estate has changed in Omokoroa Now with exceptional marketing – no extra cost! Interested to learn how? Let’s talk. Call 07 548 1617 20

| Lizard News | April 2020

BULSARA T/A TALL POPPY LICENSED UNDER REAA 2008