The Oxford Observer, January 2020. by oxfordobserver

Obser ver the Oxf ord

JANUARY

2020 Issue 96

Greyhounds

as pets

Shaz Davis gives Surfing a go!

Yoga Classes in Oxford

PLUS much more inside

Schnurrbart

Design & Publishing

January twenty Twenty And just like that - it’s 2020. We all talk about how fast the years go, but 2019 really was a bit of a blur. We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas . Hopefully by now we have had some summer weather. I think it is much needed, after winds, and an absolutely freezing Christmas Day. As we head into 2020, we are looking forward to meeting more of you, to sharing your stories, and to continuing to bring that sense of community to the Oxford Observer. So many people we feature in the Observer say they get stopped in shops, and on the street, for people to have a chat to them. In this digital era which can have the downside of less personal connection, we love to hear that because of the stories, people are connecting with each other. As always, please let us know if you have a story you would like us to consider. Email us at emily@oxfordobserver.co.nz and we can have a chat.

Happy New Year to all of you.

Here’s hoping 2020 has wonderful things in store for you.

Bruce & Emily Chapman

Schnurrbart

Design & Publishing

january Featured Photo

Hanmer Springs Forest Photographer

Jamie-Lee (13yrs)

Main Divide welcomes Lisa to the team Lisa Dolby comes to Main Divide Hair Lounge with 17 years experience as a hair stylist. Born in Ireland and completing her hair dressing training in Scotland, Lisa is well travelled. She has worked in many hair salons, loves hair-ups and the hair colouring aspect of hair styling and brings this expertise with her to Oxford’s Main Divide Hair Lounge. Lisa moved to Coopers Creek in late 2019 and in her spare time loves to draw and paint. Lisa loves the country lifestyle and the small town community feel that the Oxford area has to oﬀer. If you would like to book an appointment with Lisa or any of the talented team at Main Divide Hair Lounge please ring now for an appointment. Open f rom Jan 7th 2020 Follow us on ...

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Advertising The next issue is due out in early February 2020. The advertising deadline for the next issue is Monday 20th January

Please contact us for any enquiries 0800 627 378 37 E. advertise@oxfordobserver.co.nz www.schnurrbartdandp.co.nz

Exciting changes

for local business owner Debbie Hawkins by Emily Chapman

Exciting changes are happening for Debbie Hawkins of The Oxford House of Beauty. After living in Oxford since 2006, and setting up her business in 2008, the time has come for their family to make the move to Rangiora. Debbie says they wanted to bring up their daughter, Lauren, in the country, with horses and animals. Now that she is making her own way, Debbie and her husband Jim decided it made sense for them to move to be closer to Jim’s work, and have a balance between work and family quality time. They are excited to be living in Rangiora, and say that it has a vibrant feel, while still retaining the small town feel. With the move away from Oxford, Debbie has decided to change her business name to Goodwood House of Beauty, as she is based in Goodwood Close, Rangiora. Her goal as always, is to have a friendly, welcoming home-based clinic that people will be able to relax and feel comfortable in. Debbie’s focus is on skin, and correcting skin issues, and she continues to upskill by learning and studying to bring her clients the very best skin care services and treatments. Debbie says that the support that she has received with her move from her current clients has been humbling, and she appreciates having such wonderful clients who support her. She says “without them I could not do the job I love”, and is looking forward to welcoming them and new clients into her home-based clinic. If you would like to get in touch with Debbie please call 03 310 6139 or 021 024 19237

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Author of Farm Safety book visits OAS words & photo by Shaz Davis Primary school teacher, Harriet Bremner, has turned the tragic farming-accident death of her partner, into an opportunity to campaign for farm safety and hazard awareness. She has written two children’s picture books, with a third on the way, and has made it her mission to talk about the tendency people have to believe, that accidents only happen to other people. “Ninety percent of accidents are caused by a decision someone makes. If you don’t make good decisions it can happen to you, or anyone,” says Harriet. Last year she was invited to talk to the then Year Five through to Year Eight pupils at Oxford Area School, about farm safety, and safety in general, including the importance of wearing health and safety gear, being responsible, having the right equipment for the job, being prepared and doing pre-checks where necessary. Her first book ‘Bob n Pops’ was inspired by the unlikely and close relationship between her partner, James Hayman, and their dog, Poppy. In Be Safe Be Seen Poppy and her friend Ted, a miniature foxy, discuss things like wearing safety gear and the threat of reversing tractors.

Tax Returns Payroll GST Returns Annual Accounts Rental Returns

Harriet’s third book is expected to be available in March. It features Poppy, of course. She teaches the self-help skills she has learnt on the way, to Jess, a black huntaway. Pictured right. Keri and her daughter Emily Harrison, who introduced Harriet to the school, with Harriet Bremner and Poppy (the daschund). Keri took the initiative to invite Harriet to OAS, because she believes Harriet’s story, which touches on health, wellbeing, and resilience, along with safety on farms and around machinery, can help others.

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Marshall Stokes

successful at Christchurch Show words & photo by Cathy Dee

Marshall Stokes is no ordinary 14 year old. I have to pry from him, the information that he has won multiple championships, both for his own home bred Galloway cattle, and also for his stockmanship abilities at the recent Christchurch Show.

Showing cattle for Marshall, is not about the glory of winning, but of the community involvement. He regards the showing fraternity as one big family, who have been instrumental in helping him achieve his goals. “We may only get together once a year, but when we do it is like we saw each other last week”. This is showing at its best – where the young people are mentored and encouraged by veterans. Starting in the show ring at the tender age of , with a tiny Dexter calf, whom the ‘show family’ decided should be handled by Marshall, he was hooked. After winning the Champion Handler under 25 years, recently at just 14, I am pleasantly surprised to hear that there was no hint of jealousy. Rather, an overall pride, with people genuinely pleased for him. “It is all about working together,” he tells me. “The whole cattle showing community is all about ensuring that everyone develops, and doing what they can to help us do that”. Marshall says his younger brother Daniel has played a big part, by helping him get the animals ready - and there is a lot involved in this. “It’s kind of annoying”, laughs Marshall, “Daniel is a natural

Di Moreira

Living, loving, selling Oxford M 027 848 8020 E di@pb.co.nz

at stockmanship. He just walks out there and the cows all follow him and he’s not even all that interested in the showing. I’ve had to work hard at it”. Showing cattle, it seems, is much more than just parading around with a cow on a leash. “You have to speak in public, and give your opinion on the other cattle, and be truthful about what you see , which can be hard sometimes”. This year Marshall had extra help from two mates from his school. One of them, from Merivale, had had no previous contact with cattle, but after spending the weekend on the farm, fell in love with the experience. Both boys were a great help not only in preparing the stock by helping with the washing and clipping but also in helping to train them to walk calmly on a lead – no easy task! It was Marshall’s father, Andrew, who four years ago, started him off on a journey into breeding the little Galloways. Andrew breeds Angus cattle, “but they were a bit too big and bolshy for a (then) small boy to show, so we decided to get him a Galloway, and then we all fell in love with them”. This led to the purchase of an older cow and yearling heifer from Southland breeder Rob Hall. They were both in calf and the herd was started. With 10 calves on the ground this season, the herd is looking strong, and the market is rapidly expanding as people discover the incredible taste of the marbled meat. There is also growing demand from lifestyle block owners, who prefer the smaller slower maturing cattle which have a good temperament and are excellent mothers. “They’re far more protective of their calves than the Angus,” Marshall smirks looking over at Andrew, who I suspect is rolling his eyes. Already it seems change is in the air on this farm. “A guy came by recently to buy an Angus bull and ended up taking one of Marshall’s Galloways!” After winning the Intermediate Herdsperson (14 – 17-year olds), this young farmer is looking forward to a trip up to Masterton in May, where he will be joining a stud to show for them at the Future Beef Hoof and Hook competitions, for 8 – 24 year olds. Is there anything else you would like to say about these cows I ask as Marshall walks me to my truck “Yes! they are NOT Oreo cows or Pandas!” he says.

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END OF SEASON CLEARANCE! 10-19 JANUARY Ring in the new year with Emma’s at Oxford! Our January Sale is on now. So come and see us for some fabulous end of season fashion clearance deals from brands like Briarwood, Saints and more. Or bag yourself some brilliant book bargains to see you through summer. Whether you’re popping by or visiting Oxford for the day, we’d love to see you. 53 Main Street, Oxford | 03 312 3432

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Greyhounds as pets

words & photos by Cathy Dee

With all the bad press of the Greyhound racing industry in Australia, it may come as a relief to know that the industry here, is strictly regulated, with high standards of welfare for the dogs. Such is the care for the racing hounds that GRNZ (Greyhound Racing New Zealand), have their own hound rehoming agency (along with supporting others), and the trainers work hard to privately rehome and work with the agencies. Retired dogs are brought to rehoming centres to be assessed for their training needs, along with full health checks, which include desexing and dental examinations. Nightrave is a nationwide rehoming agency and official partner of GRNZ, who work hard to find the best homes for each dog. After the vet checks, Nightrave offers further holistic treatment if required, such as Physio or muscular skeletal massage. They specialise in the behaviour work and match the needs of the family with the needs of the dog. Tracy Doe works locally for Nightrave, and assures me that they have dogs which are able to live with cats, and who can be rehomed with all sorts of pets in the house - even rabbits on occasions! Tracy is at pains to stress that the greyhounds are not ‘rescued’ but rehomed. She says “these guys have been lovingly cared for during their racing career. They are fed the best food and treated like the athletes they are! They retire from racing and then need a home to live out their time. They don’t begin racing until they are around 2 years old and, in some cases, if they are not into it, they are retired early. Most have finished racing by the time they are 5 years old. They do love to run.... fast”. Tracy explains, “we do on occasions see them younger, as before they race they have a trial period. If they don’t want to do it or the trainer feels this could be detrimental to their health then they do not go on to race, and then they become available for adoption. As they live with their packs until around 16/18 months, it is rare we see puppies, but again we have seen them available on occasion, if a trainer has deemed them unsuitable to race for

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any reason”. There is a large community on facebook which supports new owners, and the trainers are on these pages too. Most of the trainers love to receive updates and photographs of their dogs in their retirements, and often give options of homestays for their retired and rehomed greyhounds, as they love their dogs!” These racing pooches are typically incredibly lazy animals, which are happy to snooze the day away on your couch – next to the cat. This along with the fact that they have no undercoat, makes them not only less likely to trigger allergies, but also clean and generally smell-free, making them the perfect dog for most people. Tracy maintains that having lived in groups as young dogs, means that they are well socialized, so generally communicate well with other dogs. “They have great lead manners, and are happy to walk sedately alongside you. Affectionate, loyal, calm and quiet, the only thing they aren’t great at is as a guard dog. They usually hardly ever bark! Greyhounds do need to run, but they do it in short bursts, with long rest periods between blasting around”. NZ greyhounds are trained with a lure – not a live animal. This means that most of them can be trained not to chase family pets. The rehoming agencies offer ongoing support and advice on training for any of the dogs which they rehome, including training for households with cats. Tracy gives me some interesting facts about greyhounds. The only animal faster over short distances, than a greyhound, is a cheetah and when running, they spend 75% of their time in the air! With a 270-degree range of vision they can see objects behind them and just under a kilometre in front of them. Their muscular legs make it difficult for most of them to assume a sitting position, and physically impossible for others. It’s an uncomfortable position and they don’t actually put their full weight on their bottom if they can sit. Some greyhounds sleep with their eyes open. They have a higher body temperature than other dogs. Greyhounds are in the top five most gentle dogs.

Although Greyhounds come in 18 primary colours with over 55 different colour combinations, grey is now the least common colour, because at one time it was thought that grey dogs ran slower, and the colour was bred out. A content hound will often “cockroach” or “roach” (lay on his back with legs up).  If these facts don’t have you racing out to rehome a greyhound, here is one more that could seal the deal . Out of all the purebred dog breeds to date, many animal experts have come to believe that the Greyhound is perhaps the healthiest breed of dog, when it comes to staying clear of developing any hereditary health issues.  It’s truly amazing how a dog breed as ancient as the Greyhound, can have a practically perfect health record Contact Tracy at Email: tracyannedoe@gmail.com or through the Nightrave website : www.nightrave.co.nz if you would like to find out more about adopting one of these very special dogs.

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Lexie Graham finalist in Fred Hollows Humanity Awards

words & photos by Emily Chapman

Lexie Graham was one of 70 students nominated for the inaugural Fred Hollows Humanity Awards, and was recognised as one of the final 10.

Mary Chisnall, Lexie’s teacher nominated her for the award, which is open to all Year 6 students around the country, and was created to “recognise passionate children, striving to make the world around them better.” She was presented with the certificate by May Young from Specsavers at a special assembly. Specsavers have a community programme which benefits the Fred Hollows Foundation, and other New Zealand Charities. May said the privilege was hers, in being able to present the award to Lexie, as she feels it is extremely important to be able to look after, and give back to others. Lexie’s family have an ongoing connection with Moso Island in Vanuatu. Lexie’s grandparents Ron and Jo Ealam have been travelling there for quite a few years, and taking others to work with the community on building projects, gardens and wells, and setting up a social enterprise. This year Lexie was able to be part of the group, and worked on fundraising and putting together stationery packs for all the children in the school. In her nomination letter Mary said, “I have no doubt that she will continue to find ways to raise money and support this community.”

Nominations Sought

Water Advisory Group The Council works closely with the community to deliver the best possible water supply to our residents. We’re now inviting nominations to join a new Water Supply Advisory Group for the West Eyreton, Summerhill and Poyntzs Road schemes. These voluntary groups represent the voice of locals and help us to make good decisions around upgrading our water infrastructure to meet New Zealand drinking water standards. One of the biggest tasks ahead for this new group is to co-ordinate the proposed joining of Poyntzs Road to the West Eyreton and Summerhill schemes. Nominations can be made at waimakariri.govt.nz/watersupply or at any Council Service Centre or Library.

Nominations are open until Friday 24 January 2020.

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Inaugural Oxman

a huge success

words & photo by Cathy Dee

The first Oxman event has been a great success. The event was run on December 15th, with over 400 entrants in all the events. There were a range of different events to suit many ages and abilities, and organisers say that there were a large number of locals involved; many of them for the first time in such an event. The venue was also a hit with organisers and competitors alike. Although it was a hot and windy day, the Spark family farm with their 500m irrigation pond, provided a fantastic spot for the swim course, with running and bike courses in the area. All of the Spark family were involved in teams, although one member, Henry, did the duathlon on his own. Organiser John Newsome says they will definitely be back in 2020, with a provisional date of December 13th having been set. Keep an eye out on their facebook page ‘The OxMan” for updates. Results can be found online at https://www.sportsplits.com/races/oxman-2019. Pictured right : Archie Watson crossing the line to win his teams event.

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Insured for LIFE ? In my last column I gave a little introduction into, yes, that same word, Insurance. And in particular introduced you to the types of insurances we look after. What’s known in our industry as “personal risk insurance”, health, life and disability. Those insurances we take out to protect us and our family from financial risk if we can’t earn. Which, you’ll recall, I argued is your biggest asset. You’ll also recall I said I’d give you an insight into the various types of insurances that make up personal risk. I guess the first one is Life Insurance. It’s been in our culture, our heritage, for four or five generations. I can remember my father telling me “son, you’ve got a wife now, and soon a family. You need life insurance. You have responsibilities!!” And so, I met my first Insurance Agent as they were known in the day… Life Insurance by name is an anomaly. It’s better referred to as death insurance. It’s an insurance product that fundamentally is very simple. Someone dies. Someone gets paid. I had a colleague once who used to tell his clients life insurance is the only insurance policy you’re guaranteed to get a claim on, if you keep it long enough! The difficult bits are who, when, and most importantly, how much. This is the start of the reasons why you need guidance. Remember, when you’re in an unfortunate position where you need to make a claim and you’ve got it wrong, it’s too late. You can’t go back. I’ve never had anyone who’s made a claim say, “I’ve got too much”, but I’ve certainly had people say, “I wish we’d taken more!!”. But not everyone needs Life Insurance. And not everyone needs it until the day they die. For there to be a need there really should be two things present. We call them the two “D’s” – debt and/or dependants. The amount of cover needs to be quite specific. It needs to have a purpose. It may not necessarily just be to prepay debt. Conversely, it may not be required to repay all the debt. When deciding how much insurance to take out, you and your better half need to have a clear understanding what you see happening if either, or, heaven forbid, both of you die prematurely. What needs to happen? What would you like to see happen? Life Insurance is just the funding mechanism for ensuring those wishes can be attained. I’ve often talked to new potential clients about their current cover and found they are under insured, but, almost just as common I’ve found clients that are over insured. Remember, life insurance is not about someone dying and someone else winning lotto. As crude as that may sound, remember the more insurance you have the greater the cost. Why would we subscribe to Sky TV if we don’t own a TV? Why would we insure our Fiat Bambina for the same value as a Mercedes Benz? No point. Waste of money. This is the exact reason why we need advice from someone who knows. Someone who can guide. The other important aspect is the “who”. There may be a desire to leave funds for the future education or development of our kids. There may be funds needed very quickly for family members that are going to look after our affairs. How do we do this in a timely fashion? Ask us. We’re here to help. There are many ways to achieve what you’d like to see happen. Remember, life insurance is not a “one size fits all”! If you have any questions, concerns or need to review your insurance policies, then feel free to contact us and one of our team can come and have a chat. You can either email me directly at hank@ppnzl.co.nz or call me on 021 357 062 or email our office at admin@ppnzl.co.nz Anyone of us would be more than happy to talk to you.

Afterall, this is what we do…

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My Challenge

rewards local businesswords byTao Motion with Gabrielle Euteneuer Emily Chapman - Photo Bruce Chapman

The Oxford Community Trust has benefited from a $500 grant from the My Challenge incentive at Challenge Oxford. The My Challenge Programme has been running for some time now and is “a community-based fundraiser designed to support local organisations that are important to each participating Challenge retailer’s community. “ My Challenge allows customers to donate their fuel discount or reward points earned to a participating Challenge retailer’s elected Community Group.” Along with the regular contributions that the Trust has received from donations, a draw was done at Head office and an additional $500.00 has been given to the Trust. Oxford Community Trust Manager, Jo Ealam, says that the Trust is extremely grateful to receive this grant, and all of the contributions from the programme. All money donated goes towards the ongoing work the Trust does in the area of mental health and suicide prevention. The Oxford Community Trust has been operating for 25 years, and provides vital social services support to the District. Challenge Oxford owner, Robyn Paget, says the programme has been going well, and they love being able to support local groups through it. She says “it really highlights the importance of shopping locally, by supporting local businesses. Not only does that help employment in the area, but through this programme, you are able to make a difference to community groups and organisations.” If you are not registered for My Challenge - pop in and see the team to start supporting your community.

We all know we should be exercising but sometimes it is difficult to know where to start especially if you have been injured or have not exercised in many years. The thought of the gym or even going for a walk can seem a little daunting. It is great to know then, that right here in Oxford, there is a series of classes run by instructor Gabrielle Euteneuer, under the name of ‘Tao Motion’, that even the creakiest of us can not only participate in, but enjoy. Consisting of a mix of Yoga, Tai Chi, Tao Qigong and Pilates, the exercises promote strength and flexibility through gentle motion, which restores vitality and rejuvenates the entire body.

Qualified as a Senior Instructor of ‘Universal Healing Tao System’ with the originator, Mantak Chia, Gabrielle has been studying, practising and teaching this, and other Qigong systems for the better part of forty years. If the word Yoga has you heading for the nearest food cabinet, due to visions of ridiculously flexible 20-somethings, in impossible poses on mountain tops, stop right there. These workouts are far more achievable, and each workout builds on the last.

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Second hand

Style

words & photo by Cathy Dee - below photo supplied

with Kerri Booth

Two thousand and twenty baby!!! And it belongs to us. I could give you an inspiring column about New Years Resolutions, and how to rid your closet of all unwanted, unneeded items and begin the year with a perfect cleanse. I’m not going to though. I read this 5 word sentence the other day, and it has been replaying in my mind. Often when things are repeated a few times in my mind, then I know that it’s something I need to pay attention to. (Lots don’t replay but probably should, I can assure you). Here it is:

First launched by Gabrielle Euteneuer in Germany in 1996, Tao Motion in Oxford has become very popular. Not only as a means to develop fitness but also for the social aspect. ‘We often gather at a local café after class for a chat and a coffee, and sometimes if there is no class, the group gets together for a walk’. Gabrielle says the shift to New Zealand from Germany twenty-two years ago, “was inspired by the ability to live within unspoiled nature, to be able to hike in mountains and enjoy the beaches along with the relaxed “laid-back” Kiwi lifestyle. It’s a bit of all: nature, the weather and the people. This is why I live in New Zealand. Although Germany has been amazing in protecting areas of forests, with so many people, noise is everywhere, even in ‘quiet spaces’”. Currently residing in View Hill with her partner, after ten years in Christchurch, Gabrielle thought she might run a couple of classes, alongside relaxing in the garden and taking leisurely walks in the bush. “I wasn’t expecting such interest,” she laughs, “now I am running 7 classes in Oxford alone! “ Details and timetables for classes in Oxford can be found on the Tao Motion website https://www.taomotion.co.nz/ Give it a Go!

What you think, you become. This is true in so many areas. If you think that you are not very stylish, and don’t know how to put items together then you will become this. If you think that you aren’t capable of wearing certain outfits,or rocking a certain style then you will become that. If you think that you could never invite someone into your wardrobe to help make a change then you won’t. Roald Dahl summed it up when he talked about Mrs Twitt. Now Mrs Twitt was really quite beautiful, but she started having not so beautiful thoughts, which then in turn changed her face and her style. Even Mrs Twitt could have created an individual hairstyle, but she decided to concentrate on feeding her husband worms.

info@taomotion.co.nz www.taomotion.co.nz

WASTE WATER SERVICING & SEPTIC TANK CLEANING

• Septic & Waste Water Servicing • Grease Trap Servicing • Water Tank Cleaning • Drain Unblocking • Culvert Clearing • Vacuum Trucks • CCTV Inspections

Number one tip for 2020 from Polkadotcom is to think about how you want your look to be, and begin by putting small changes in place for this to happen. For some of us this will be a wardrobe consult. For some it will be learning how to op shop. For others it could be as simple as booking in a workshop and learning the tools on how to make this look happen. Make sure your thoughts are what you want to become. Remember it’s two thousand and twenty baby and it belongs to us.

Kerri Booth 021 059 0984

24 HOUR 7 DAY RESPONSE

0800 HYDROVAC 03 366 9187

CANTERBURY OWNED & OPERATED

www.hydrovac.co.nz fifteen

2019 - A year in review

by Mike Hart

E nga tangata whenua o tenei kura o te Poho Rakahua tena koutou E nga manuhiri nau mai, haere mai, haere mai. We came into the 2019 school year with three clear objectives: Grow together / Kāhui Whetū Learn together / Tātai Whetū Shine together / Rau Whetū As you have seen throughout the year we have had many examples and experiences of us growing, learning and shining together. Our year has been full of opportunities and in our official welcome to the school year, our Mihi Whakatau, I laid down a wero/challenge: this year your teachers will open many doors of opportunity - all you have to do is walk through them and take up the opportunity. Those opportunities have included overseas trips to both China and Japan, as well as the numerous opportunities in sports, cultural, the Arts, Technology, Sciences, Mathematics and English both inside the classroom and outside. We have seen our students perform and represent our school and themselves in the local community and further abroad. Again we have held a number of overnight camps which begin in Year 5 and carry on through to Year 10, with course-specific camps for our Years 11-13 students. Each camp has been successful in terms of the learning experiences gathered. It is that time of the year to express our gratitude. My gratitude goes to the diverse groups and the different people who make up our community and the help we receive from them; the PTA - wow this group of dedicated parents gift so much of their time to our school and we are forever grateful. Volunteers, Parents, whanāu, friends and supporters - we appreciate each and every one of you. I appreciate the Trustees on the Board for their time, effort, support and ideas - again the Board invest so much time into this school on behalf of our community. The Board help us stay grounded, yet challenge us to embrace the future, to always take the community with us on our journey of excellence. To our amazing senior leadership team including Sharyn Varcoe, Jacqui Paterson and Lesley Inch: they are committed, hard-working people whose top priority is always the interests of students. The rest of the staff, from our teachers, teacher aides, front office staff, caretakers and cleaners - each and every one of you is valued and your loyalty and hard work are never questioned, thank you. Finally, I wish you all a safe and restful holiday and we look forward to seeing you in the new year. Nō reira tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā tatou katoa.

Mike Hart - Principal KEY DATES FOR 2020 Friday 24 January 2020 1:30pm Year 11 Course confirmation 2:30pm Year 12 and 13 Course confirmation Leadership Camp for Y 11-13 House Leaders and Student Leaders - until Saturday, 25 January Wednesday 29 January 2020 Day 1 - School Starts at 9am for all students 11:30 am – 12:20 pm - Mihi Whakatau Thursday 30 January 2020 Year 1-6 swimming begins Thursday 6 February 2020 Waitangi Day Holiday

OAS TERM DATES for 2020 Term 1 - Wednesday 29th January to Thursday 9th April Term 2 - Tuesday 28th April to Friday 3rd July Term 3 - Monday 20th July to Friday 25th September Term 4 - Monday 12th October to Thursday 10th December

52 Bay Road Oxford

03 312 4197

info@oxford.school.nz

Photo round-up of Term 4 - 2019

www.facebook.com/oxfordarea

http://www.oxford.school.nz/

Give Surfing a go

words by Shaz Davis - photos supplied

If you’d told me that the Friday before Christmas would see me wriggling somewhat ungraciously into my tatty secondhand wetsuit to go surfing, I would have laughed it off with an impolite throw-away comment. One that isn’t printable, but “not very likely” gives you the general idea. Yet there I was, pulling into a parking spot at Waikuku Beach. Already pre-wriggled into the bottoms, because the skin-tight suit had definitely shrunk a size or two while lurking lazily for months in the cupboard, and there was no way I was doing the required wriggle in public.

It wasn’t long before I was paddling, trying to remember to keep my feet together and chest up, to ride with my first wave on a surfboard. Next up, was raising my chest and riding the wave in an on-theknees press-up position. And then the half plop-up, the on-myknees-not-my-feet pop-up, and the fall-off.

Then I was shaking hands with Waikuku local, Tammi Martin, who runs Surfwise with her husband Matt, and meeting the lovely ladies who regularly surf with Tammi on Friday mornings. The wind was up, but the waves looked promising. Tammi gathered everyone on top of a dune to point out the best places to catch a wave and covered some basic surf etiquette for my benefit. After a short warm-up, Tammi gave instructions to do 12 pop-ups and catch at least 12 waves in the spirit of 12 days of Christmas. Then we carried the boards to the water. Pop-ups start with a push-up-type movement. Once your torso is clear of the board you nimbly lift your hips and land your feet, one in front of the other, along the centre-line of the board, and stand up. Admission: nimble is a work-in-progress, even on dry land. While I was figuring how to plop-up (I’ve just coined a new surfing term for pop-ups done by beginners) on land the wind changed to southerly, making conditions a little more challenging, but provided a marvellous opportunity to learn to control the board in windy conditions. Tammi guided me through getting the board out into the beginner’s patch, which is near the shore and about waist deep.

I had a lot of fun, swallowed more than my share of seawater, and got a taste of the addictive qualities of sea, fresh air, a warmhearted teacher and supportive group environment, that keeps these surfer ladies coming back for more. And yes, it does make you feel young again. All ladies in the group commented on the incredible teaching from Tammi and supportive nature of the group, and a few jokingly called it their post-divorce therapy, or their divorce prevention therapy. “Joining Surfwise’s Friday morning Mamas Group is one of the best decisions I’ve made. You can’t beat the feeling of being in the ocean and catching a wave, I can’t recommend it enough,” says local Oxford resident Andrea Howland. “Tammi is a gem, and a fabulous teacher and the group of Mums are first-class good people. Surfing has become a tool for well-being for me. A board is provided, so no worries there, and age is no barrier. Give it a Go!”

If you’d like to give surfing a go, contact Tammi on 027 532 4238 or search for Surfwise Waikuku on Facebook. There is another ladies group on Sundays, and there are all sorts of classes for Mums, Dads, kids, and families. eighteen

WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR 2020? COMMUNITY COLLEGE NORTH CANTERBURY

At Community College North Canterbury we offer a great range of courses that will help you set goals for your future, and then provide a platform for you to achieve them.

NCEA LEVEL 1 & 2 EMERGE

New Zealand Certificates in Foundation Skills - Level 1 & 2 NCEA Level 1

HOSPITALITY

New Zealand Certificate in Hospitality Entry Skills (Cafe) Level 2, NCEA Level 1 & 2

SPORT & RECREATION

New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills in Sport, Recreation & Coaching - Level 2. NCEA - Level 1 & 2

EQUINE

New Zealand Certificate in Equine Skills - Level 2 & 3 NCEA Levels 1 & 2

EMERGE

EQUINE

Brooke McHardy - Tutor

Pippa Newby - Tutor

Brooke has been teaching at the College for 2 and a half years, and says what they provide is different to mainstream education. She says “We do the work together, rather than them being left to their own devices”. Brooke says the students get a lot of one on one assistance and she is always excited to see the students progress during the year.

Pippa joined the teaching staff at the college 3 years ago, and says she loves that she gets to teach her hobby, and help her students find the passion for working with horses. She says “Education can be fun” and the students get to learn in a practical way.

Bethany Harper - Student

Abby Graham - Student

Bethany says she is really enjoying the Emerge course. She says “we get to do lots of different activities, and it gets you the qualifications to get a good job.” She believes that one of the big benefits to students is that it is free. Bethany also finds the youth advisors who are onsite really helpful and supportive. Next year Bethany is going move on to the Equine course.

Abby says “I have always loved horses, and wanted a career out of it, and to build my confidence.” She says she loves the learning environment and appreciates the way she is not pressured, but is given the chance to figure things out. She says one of the benefits for her of doing the course is that she has learnt to push herself out of her comfort zone to get the most out of what she is doing. Abby hopes to move on to a job in the industry after she completes the course.

ph: 03 313 5874 txt: 029 770 5423 e: faye.gread@comcol.ac.nz www.comcol.ac.nz

REACH YOUR GOALS

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nineteen

Oxford Community Trustâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas Wonderland enjoyed by many

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Cottage garden

words & photos by Cathy Dee

The Main Street Oxford garden of Rose and Bruce Anderson can only be described as a slice of paradise. As you walk through a maze of paths, you are bathed in a seduction of scent, colour and texture at every turn.

The couple created this beautiful haven from scratch, after driving past the property in 2001 while on a road trip. With no intention of shifting from their house in Tauranga, they noticed the old cottage – 160 years old to be exact, and fell in love. “The garden was nonexistent, there was a cabbage tree, a couple of Silver birches and a large purple flowering rhododendron” says Bruce, “oh and stones – many, many stones!”. Rose takes up the story, “we absolutely loved the cottage, and the rhododendron and we both decided a lifestyle change would be good. The kids thought we were mad”. Much of the early stages was spent picking stones out of the lawn, and then the garden itself evolved over time to the splendour it is now. Rose loves heritage roses. That much is obvious in a multitude of beautiful specimens throughout the garden. Many have been grown from cuttings, and one in particular was found discarded by the roadside on a trip to Taranaki.“I made Bruce stop the car” says Rose of her find. “It was just a stump but I was pretty sure it was a rose, so, with

Bruce rolling his eyes, we picked it up, brought it home and shoved it in the garden, and it turned out to be a beautiful old rose”. Although Rose says she doesn’t colour co-ordinate, the combination of colours and textures are a testament to her natural eye for design. The garden is also a haven for birds, who are looked after with feed from a feeding station, and whom in turn help to tend the garden. They don’t use insect sprays. Instead, they have a team of pest controllers, in the many birds who live in and around the place. “The birds do a great job of insect control. The sparrows being the absolute best at picking aphids off the rose bushes.” The couple know the birds by sight. They know where they are nesting and relish seeing each years clutch exploring after leaving the nest. “We do have to cover the berries, and some of the seedlings, but that is a small price to pay for the good the birds do in insect control”. Now that it is established, there is not so much work involved, and Bruce explains that they leave plants to self-seed, and dead leaves to mulch down – much needed in the hot dry summers. The only fertilizer used is sheep manure, pea straw and compost. Both Bruce and Rose are members of Keep Oxford Beautiful (KOB), which is involved in planting up plots of land around Oxford, including a fruit and nut tree orchard for the community, situated at the Eyre Reserve. This oasis is proof that glorious gardens do not require an endless stream of money or a large acreage, but rather time, love and dedication.

PROVIDING INTEGRATED VETERINARY SERVICES

Integrated Functional Veterinary Diagnostics and Medicine TCVM (Acupuncture, Herbs, Food Therapy/Nutrition) ABM (Manual hands on therapy, rehabilitative programmes for horses) Reiki

Bach Flower Remedies and Homeopathy

Lillian Bonner ~ DVM CVA ABMgrad.dip. RMT 021 951 059

LillianBonnerDVM@gmail.com

Lillian Bonner DVM Balanced Beings Integrated & Functional Veterinary Medicine

twenty one

Support and enjoy your local Market

Every Sunday 9am - 12pm

Main Street, Oxford

EFT Ava POS ilabl e

FOOD ~ FUN &

GREAT PEOPLE + GREAT PEOPLE+ GREAT PEOPLE PEOPLE ++ GREAT GREAT PEOPLE SKILLS =+= GREAT GREAT SKILLS = GREAT SKILLS GREAT SKILLS = GREAT RESULTS! SKILLS = GREAT RESULTS! GREAT RESULTS! GREAT RESULTS! Earthworks Earthworks –– for for Commercial Commercial -GREAT RESULTS! Earthworksand for Commercial Residential lifestyle blocks Earthworks – –for Commercial - -

Residential blocks Earthworks and –and forlifestyle Commercial Residential lifestyle blocks Residential and lifestyle blocks

Residential and lifestyle blocks

AMBIENCE

You’ll Find it all at the Oxford Farmers Market

www.oxfordfarmersmarket.co.nz

HORSE RIDING

• Lessons and trekking

• Over 80 well-schooled horses available or BYO • Preparation for certificates • Dressage, Show Jumping & Cross Country

✓ Driveways ✓ Site Preparation Preparation ✓ Driveways ✓ Site Entranceways Retaining Walls ✓ ✓ Site Driveways Preparation ✓ Entranceways ✓ Retaining Walls ✓ Driveways ✓ Driveways Site Preparation ✓ ✓ Site Preparation Asphalting Kerb & Channelling ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Entranceways Retaining Walls ✓ ✓ Asphalting Kerb & Channelling ✓ Entranceways ✓✓ Entranceways Retaining Walls ✓ Walls ✓ ✓ ✓ Retaining Sewer Soak ✓ Asphalting Kerb &Pits Channelling ✓ ✓ ✓ Sewer Soak Pits ✓ Asphalting Kerb & Channelling Asphalting Kerb & Channelling ✓ ✓ ✓✓ Sewer Soak everything from Farm Pits Tracks & Effluent ✓And everything from Farm Tracks & Effluent ✓ Sewer Soak Pits ✓ Sewer Soak Pits Finishes. ✓And Ponds to Construction & Interior And everything from Farm Tracks Effluent Ponds to Construction & Interior & Finishes. And everything Tracks &Finishes. Effluent 450 & 600from PostFarm Hole Augers And everything from Farm Tracks & Effluent Ponds to Construction & Interior Ponds & Interior Finishes. PondstotoConstruction Construction & Interior Finishes.

Quality First Quality First Quality First Ph 03 313-1670 Baydon 027First 405 9910 Quality Ph 03 313-1670 Baydon 027 405 9910 Email : info@bayphil.co.nz Quality First Ph 03 Email 313-1670 Baydon 027 405 9910 1734627 : info@bayphil.co.nz 1734627 Ph 03 Email 313-1670 Baydon 027 405 : info@bayphil.co.nz 9910 1734627 Ph 03Email 313-1670 Baydon 027 405 9910 : info@bayphil.co.nz 1734627

Email : info@bayphil.co.nz

1734627

CRAIG’S

• Full livery service available “We now offer Payment Plans through Ezypay that allow you to make small regular payments for your horse riding”

Kowhai Residential School of Riding Ltd 711 Island Road, Oxford Ph: 03 312 4309 www.kowhai.co.nz

Carpet Clean & Pest Control Spiders & Flies - Approved handler Also supplier of Enviroshield Insecticide

Free Quote Txt 027 363 6325

Ph 312 4772 Oxford

Fresh, real milk direct to you at the farm dispenser Wishing you all the best for 2020

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Self Service

OPEN 7 DAYS 7am - 9pm

YOUR ONE STOP HARDWARE STORE

YES, IN OXFORD 100’s of products for the

Handyman or Handywoman Potting Mix, Yates Sprays, Yates Seeds, Seed Potatoes, & Products Garden Tools • LPG Reﬁlls Fencing Requirements • Power Tools Nuts, Bolts & Nails • Lawn Mower Parts

OPEN MON - FRID 7.00AM TIL 5.30PM SATURDAY 9.00AM TIL 1.00PM (Please Note: No LPG reﬁlls on Saturdays)

56 Ashley Gorge Road, Oxford 2km off the Main Street

Phone 027 630 2230 Real milk. For a naturally better life. www.facebook.com/CavanFarmFreshMilk

twenty two

PAG Silverstream Dental 4/42 Silverstream Boulevard Silverstream 03 925 8003 pagsilverstreamdental@gmail.com

Oxford Butchery

Farm Fresh Flavour Fresh to your Plate

Retail Quality Meat & Smallgoods Award Winning Old Fashioned Dry-cured Bacon & Ham. From Paddock to Freezer - we can homekill & process your stock ready for the freezer. Bookings essential

• Weekend courses • School holiday courses

• General/Family Dentistry • Facial Pain • Periodontal Therapy • Minor Oral Surgery • Oral Medicine Specialist • Oral Cancer Detection • Clinicians all New Zealand trained • Super Gold and Community Services Card Discounts Open Monday to Friday 8.30 to 5.30 www.pagdental.com

Ph: 03 312 4521

82 HIGH STREET, OXFORD Email: admin@womersleys.co.nz

www.womersleys.co.nz

Oxford Butchery Ltd 4th Generation Family Butchers

44 Main Street - Oxford

Ph 03 312 4205 | A/H : Ph Shane 03 312 4709 MPI APPROVED

Agape Dance Academy Beautiful ballet, fun Jazz & Contemporary and Tap Dance for 3yrs to Adult in Oxford. Phone Miss Belinda: 021 049 1315 or Facebook: Agape Dance Academy NZ

Bowen Therapy A Gentle therapy for every body and any age. Contact Johanna Lettink, registered practitioner for 20 years Ph. 312 1316 or 021 269 0371 www.bowtech.com

Chimney Sweep Winters Coming!! Rotary Brush Technology From $70 single story - Book now before the rush 0800-SWEEP ME or 021-0277-1927 Leather & Fashion Handbags and wallets, possum/merino NZ gifts, jewellery, art and homewares. Route 72 Cafe Bar Emporium, Cust. Ph: 312 5595. Manuka Honey and other New Zealand-made skincare ranges for men and women. Homeopathic remedies for the whole family. Also Kings Seeds. Route 72 Cafe Bar Emporium, Cust. Ph: 312 5595. Email: route72@clear.net.nz.

Wanted To Buy Old gas pumps / petrol bowsers, porcelain / enamel signs & oil / petrol memorabilia. ph. Chris 027 516 0669

OXFORD CLUB

OXFORD CLUB EST - 1887

160 High Street Oxford | Phone 312 4411 | www.oxfordclub.co.nz Members, Guests and Aﬃliates welcome

BAR & BOTTLESTORE 11am - 10pm Sunday - Thursday 11am - 11pm Friday - Saturday

TAKEAWAYS

Sunday - Thursday 5:30pm - 8:00pm Friday & Saturday 5:30 - 9:00pm

OSCAR’S

Friday - Saturday - Sunday from 5:30pm

* New members welcome * Starting Monday 13th Jan 2019, 6pm Teams of 3 but if you’re keen Please Phone Bill Skurr for more information Ph: 022 071 124

JANUARY AT OXFORD CLUB Junior 8 Ball Pool coaching starting Sunday 12th January

Cracker jack bowls starting Monday 13th January

OSCARS PLACE

CHECK OUT THE NEW MENU

PLUS ALL the usual fantastic events that the oxford club has to offer LIKE us on Facebook to keep updated on the latest events

BECOME A MEMBER ~

The OXFORD CLUB ~ YOUR SOCIAL HUB

If you are thinking about becoming a member, come on down and check us out. It’s easy to become a member, just sign up at the bar. Discounts for Juniors & Seniors

LOTS of sections to join – Cards, Claybirds, Darts, Fishing, Golf, Indoor Bowls, Outdoor Bowls, Pool, Racing, Travel & Vintage. twenty three

Arts in Oxford Gallery News Happy New Year everyone! 2020 is our 10th birthday at the gallery so we have a special year planned. Pottery classes will be available soon with a shed & kiln being installed this month. Afterschool Art activities for kids begin March.

Current Exhibition Summer Show #5: 20+ Artists

30 November 2019 – 26 January 2020

Take the Road Less Traveled by Lorna Allan

Our biggest annual exhibition for your enjoyment over summer with 20+Artists from Canterbury and NZ.

Complemented by new, original items made by artists and sold in our gift shop

Volunteers Needed Can you spare 3 hours? You will learn about projects, sales and will help artists in Canterbury & NZ.

Keeping

COUNCIL UPDATE

Healthy

with

with Tracie Miller

Hayfever

Hayfever is a term used to describe an allergy, which may be either seasonal, such as in spring when there is plenty of pollen or new plant growth which causes the allergy; or perennial, when you are allergic to dust, pet hair or other irritant substances. The severity and type of hayfever varies from person to person, but can make you miserable if not treated and the symptoms prevented. When you have an allergy the body releases a substance called histamine, which is why the most common medicines used to treat allergies are called antihistamines. These block the effect of histamine and will prevent any more histamine release, which should prevent the allergy getting worse. Other treatments often involve a nasal drop or spray. These include steroid based sprays, antihistamine sprays, saline rinses or sprays and decongestant drops or sprays. Eye drops are also available to help with itchy watery eyes. A cough may occur from persistent nasal secretions running down and irritating the back of the throat. This is called post-nasal drip, and may also be helped by antihistamines, and should not be treated with medicines to stop coughing. Talk to your community pharmacist about the right medicine to treat your hayfever, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding as not all medications are recommended.

s zene 30’ t! a R n o l a ks las Speci hile stoc .99 w

only $12

Please contact the Gallery

NEW OPEN HOURS

Tues -Thu 11am - 2pm Fri -Sun 10am - 4pm Closed Mon & Public Holidays

ARTS IN OXFORD

. Art Gallery . Gift Shop . Workshops

A non- profit Charitable trust run by volunteers, Supported by : Rata Foundation and Waimakariri District Council

72 Main Street | Oxford | 03 312 1639 www.artsinoxford.com

twenty four

49B Main Street | Phone 312 4314

HOURS

Monday - Friday

8.30am - 5.30pm

Wendy Doody

Waimakariri Councillor January 2020

Saturday

9.30am - 12.30pm

Happy New Year to you all for 2020 and I hope your Christmas Celebrations spent with family and friends was quality spent time.I thought I would give you an example of my work load from October to December, this includes Council meetings, Committee meetings, Hearings, Training, meetings with staff regarding agendas and other information pertaining to my portfolios. (20 meetings October, 22 meetings November, 21 meetings December). This has been a full and extensive workload since elections and is going to continue at this rate over the next three years. Hearings: Dog Control By Law 2019 and the Dog Control Policy 2019 – this was heard in October by Councillors Meyer, Stewart and Doody and recommendations to Council at the December Council Meeting. An extensive look at the old bylaw and changes made to reflect the 78 submissions by ratepayers and 10 wishing to be heard in person to the Panel. Hearings: Parking By Law 2019: Hearing Panel Councillors Williams, Barnett and Redmond. Council accepted the Recommendations of the Hearing Panel and adopted the Parking Bylaw to take effect from 12/12/19 Property Maintenance and Nuisance Control By Law 2019: was heard on 25th November 2019 by Councillors Doody, Blackie and Stewart to be signed off by Council in the New Year once Staff have come back with information which the Panel requested. Signage By Law Hearing: was held on 5th December 2019 by Councillors Doody, Redmond and Ward, with 6 submissions wishing to be heard. To be signed off by Council in the New Year. School Programmes for Aquatic Centres: Council noted that due to increasing expenses faced by Schools, signed off a discount of $50 per hour for schools hiring the Aquatic Centres for 2020 year only. Oxford Community Aquatic Centre: $150 per hour, Dudley Park: $200 per hour, Kaiapoi Aquatic Centre: $175 per hour. During these times the facilities are fully booked for School use only. Elected Members Childcare: Council has recommended that a maximum of $6000 per child under 14 to pay childcare allowance to an elected member. This option is available for any member with children under 14 years and payments are not made to a family member. Rangiora Town Hall: The Air Conditioning Unit 1 which services the Auditorium has been troublesome and this has impacted on the ability of the community to utilise this space. A replacement Air Conditioning Unit will be installed and staff will work with users and groups within the Town Hall to minimise the impact during this work. Happy Holiday Season and Best Wishes, Wendy

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Here for Life

with Oxford Constable

Mitch Alatalo

with Oxford St John Station Manager

Emma Corr

I cannot believe how fast the year has come and gone. I am sure most of you are thinking the same thing. Where has the time gone?

Welcome to 2020! Where on earth did 2019 go? We hope that you all had a safe and happy new year.

I hope you have all had a wonderful Christmas, spending time with your families, and recharging those batteries for the year ahead.

Between 01 November 2019 - 30 November 2019, our ambulance officers responded to 43 incidents in Oxford, the total call outs for the year 2019 stands at 470.

For those of you who are yet to get away with the family, enjoy yourself and enjoy each other’s company. Be safe and keep an eye out for each other. It is a busy time of the year with the increased traffic on the roads. Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. If you see something that concerns you *555 is always a good place to start. If you are heading away for an extended period let you neighbour know, so they can keep an eye out, and make sure you secure your belongings. But enough of that. I think I have left my run too late but better late than never. Aden and I would like to thank you all, the people of the Oxford, Cust and greater community, without your help myself and Aden’s role would be a lot tougher than it is. Thank you. To my fellow emergency services family, it has been a pleasure. Thanks for all your help, and keeping us safe while we work. The most important jobs are sometimes not the most glamorous. I know Aden and I have had a great first year policing in this great community, and we both look forward to many more years. Thanks again for reading. Be safe. Feel safe.

2020 is going to be a big year for us at Oxford Station. One of our main focuses is on recruiting more volunteers to our station. You will see more about this in coming issues of the Oxford Observer. We are hoping to hold some fun events that everyone can get involved in. As a community we should work together to stay fit and healthy. Challenge a friend to go sugar free with you for a month, or organise a walking group. Drink plenty of water, especially over these warmer months and by golly has it been warm! Slip slop slap and wrap. Wear plenty of sunscreen and a hat, to avoid being burnt when out and about. Talking about the warmer months, please be safe around water. In NZ every year we have preventable drownings. In 2018 there were 66 preventable drownings. If you are going swimming never go alone. Always make sure children are well supervised and in close reach. Take a learn to swim class. If you are going to the beach – swim between the flags. Take a first aid course. It takes seconds for things to change and become an emergency. In an emergency call 111 and follow the call takers instructions. They are there to help you until we can get to you. Have you thought about giving back to your community? If you have, the team at Oxford Ambulance Station are continually recruiting. Please call Oxford Station on 03 312 3516 or email the station manager at emma.corr@stjohn.org.nz. The ambulance station in Oxford is not manned 24 hours a day – if you require emergency assistance please call 111.

POLICE - FIRE - AMBULANCE - DIAL 111

with Oxford Chief Fire Officer

Trevor Ealam

The Brigade was called six times in November. We were asked to assist the Cust Fire Brigade at a large out of control slash fire. In our area we were asked to assist St John once, one to a controlled rubbish fire, one to trees that had blown across the road and power lines, one to a shed totally involved in fire and destroyed, and a large paddock fire. This months message is: If you intend lighting a fire, lighting your brazier, charcoal barbecue etc, please make sure it is properly cold before leaving it unattended. Given our weather conditions at the moment a fire will spread rapidly.

Key Messages from Oxford and Surrounding Areas Health Services Development Group (OSHSDG) The Oxford and Surrounding area Health Services Development Group (OSHSDG) provides oversight to health service improvement and sustainability initiatives in Oxford and its surrounding region. The group has the mandate to review current service activities for the Oxford and surrounds population, with the intention of identifying areas and recommending where improvements can be made in the appropriate use of resources, improved patient outcomes, and/or service levels. KEY MESSAGES

• The group has approved a Terms of Reference for an Oxford Provider Alliance. Prospective Alliance members (existing Oxford based providers of Health and Social services) will be approached to sign up to work in an integrated manner to deliver on the Model of Care for Oxford and surrounding areas. • Preparatory work has begun for creating a permanent Oxford Community Health Advisory Group. This group will provide community leadership and advice to the Provider Alliance. • We will be calling for expressions of interest from the community to serve on the Health Advisory Group in March 2020. Selection of members will be made by a panel comprising of a member from each of: OSHSDG, CCN, Oxford Health Centre, and Oxford Community Trust.

St Peter Chanel Catholic Parish Sacred Heart Church, Oxford

ENQUIRIES: Waimakariri Parish Ph: 03 313 6285

REGULAR SUNDAY MASS: 8.30am

Sunday Service & Children’s Church

10AM

166 High Street SENIOR PASTORS Greg & Joy Morris ASSOCIATE PASTORS Iain & Beth Froud CHILDRENS PASTOR Tamar Hylands

Phone 03 312 4499

www.oxfordbaptistchurch.org.nz email: ofﬁce@oxfordbaptist.org.nz

YOUTH GROUP

Years 9 to 13 at 7.30pm on Fridays at the Auditorium.

ICONZ ADVENTURE FOR BOYS & GIRLS Years 4 to 6 Girls Monday night: 6.30pm - 8pm Years 4 to 6 Boys Tuesday night: 6.30pm - 8pm Years 7 to 9 Girls Monday night 6.30pm - 8pm Years 7 to 9 Boys Wednesday 6.30pm - 8pm

EVENING MASS Every 1st & 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7pm

Small Prayer & Reflection Groups Held every 2nd Monday at 7.30pm Oxford Church Centre

ALL WELCOME | Call Josie 022 089 8331

OXFORD DISTRICT

UNION PARISH

Sharing Christ in our Fellowship and Community UNION (METHODIST & PRESBYTERIAN) PARISH SERVICES FOR JANUARY 2020 ALL SERVICES WILL BE HELD ON SUNDAYS AT THE OXFORD UNION CHURCH, 85 MAIN STREET, OXFORD

5th January - Communion Service at 9.30am

UNION PARISH MINISTER: REV. LAURENCE ENNOR PH: 03 357 4475 (Home) or 027 233 4687 (Mob) PARISH CLERK: MRS ANNE CROFT Ph: 03 312 5513

For Beautifully Handcrafted Books

Phone: 03 312 4399/027 419 6311 Email: tessawarburton@gmail.com

TWELVE BASKETS FOODBANK

We offer Food parcels for individuals and families who are going through a difﬁcult time. We are always here to help anyone in need..

‘FOOD TOGETHER’ Fruit & Vege Co-op Tuesdays at Oxford Baptist Church. 10.15am - 12.00pm Tuesday Community Lunch. 12.00pm - 1.00pm Fresh Produce Weekly

from initial concept to finished product

CALL now

027 77 333 24 or 0800 627 378 37

dipl. NSF , CCNM/NZSE, RMT-MNZ

Marina Vermaat 64 High Street Oxford 7430

03 312 4731

027 311 1140

STATIONHOUSE CAFE “Dining with a view” Lunch, brunch, morning or afternoon tea

Moana, Lake Brunner Ph: 03 738 0158

Online Will $69

Kiwilaw – www.kiwilaw.co.nz

‘Just do it!’

Angel Cats Boarding Cattery & Pet Supplies (ukmax on Trade Me)

52 Church Street, Oxford

Phone 312 1452 & 0210 424367 Email: angelcats@xtra.co.nz

www.angelcats.biz

Probate application

- $690* including GST & High Court fee Kiwilaw – www.kiwilaw.co.nz

Cheryl Simes

021 701 838 / 03 312 1508 Oxford Local - Nationwide Service ‘Just because a lawyer holds the will, it doesn’t mean they hold the purse strings. Check their fees ﬁrst.’ twenty six

Logos Flyers & Leaflets large format posters Ad Design Menu’s Display cards Stickers Print & Bind

ALL WELCOME

EARLY LEARNING CENTRE

Tuesdays at the Oxford Baptist Church, 10.15am - 12.00pm & 12.30pm - 2.30pm.

Business Cards Brochures & Booklets Signs Labels

26th January - Service at 9.30am

BOOKBINDER • Restoration • Repair • Private Tuition

BODY & SOUL, CLOTHING & CHRIST

Creating custom built design & print packages to suit you

19th January - Service at 9.30am Salvation Army Service at 6.00pm

Tessa Warburton

Open Monday - Friday 8.30am to 3.30pm for ages 6 months to 5yrs.

Creative

12th January - Service at 9.30am

MUSIC & MOVEMENT (0 TO 5YRS)

Mondays 10am - Open Sessions for all ages

Schnurrbart

Hours: 8am-11am & 4pm-6pm Phone: 03 312 5744 Mob: 027 457 4431 Email: Theresa@coolcats.nz “Time spent with cats is never wasted” 1891 South Eyre Rd

www.coolcats.nz

Community Agape Dance Academy

Beautiful ballet, fun Jazz & Contemporary and Tap Dance for 3yrs to Adult in Oxford. Phone Miss Belinda: 021 049 1315 or Facebook: Agape Dance Academy NZ

Cake Decorating Fondant Modeling Club

Learn the art of cake decorating - any experience welcome Ph Patsy 021 022 01656

Cust Bowling Club

Club days Saturday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 1.30pm. Come along and have a go, ph: 312 5892.

Cust | Oxford St John

Cadet Group and Ambulance Supporters Scheme Committee, ph: 3125839 or 3125538.

Cust Toy Library

Indoor and outdoor toys to borrow. Open Sat 10-11.30am & Mon 9.30-10.30am at Cust Community Centre.

Cust - West Eyreton Play Centre behind the Cust Community Centre, Mill Road, Cust Open Tues - Wed - Thurs Mornings Phone 03 312 5654 for more information

Darfield Line Dancers

Every Wednesday - 6:00pm - 8:30pm $7 per night Darfield Rec Centre. All levels - Two left feet OK. Great fun. Contact Jenny 03 312 4896 or 0274 452 285

JP Signing Centre

Oxford Library every Thursday. If you have any documents that need to be signed by a JP, there is a JP signing Centre at the Oxford Library every Thursday 11am until 1pm. Free session. Appointment not necessary. Just call in.

Oxford Promotions