The Observer June 2023 Edition

the er bser v O

VOLUNTEERING IN OXFORD and much more.

Learning together supports Waimakariri dairy business

Waimakariri contract milkers Kirstie and Wayne Pritchard wouldn’t be without the support and opportunities that Primary ITO | Te Pūkenga offers to their business.

The couple have been contract milking at Swannanoa for five years, milking up to 1050 cows on 360 hectares of irrigated land.

They have integrated Primary ITO learning programmes into their farm operation to progress their team and currently have three staff learning towards qualifications at various levels.

“We think it is really vital that they enrol in learning because we want them to develop and go further in the industry,” says Kirstie.

Over the years they have seen many of their team members progress to roles of more responsibility from starting out as relief milkers or assistants to getting fulltime work, becoming farm managers, and running their own businesses.

Kirstie says their three current learners are at different stages and have varying needs and the flexibility that Primary ITO offers supports this.

Training Advisers are in regular contact with learners to support their progress and meet with employers and learners at least four times a year to set a training plan.

Wayne says having staff learn on the job allows him to delegate detailed tasks and manage the team. The support of Training Adviser Sacha Storer also eases his workload.

A former dairy farm owner, manager, and teacher, Sacha loves combining her passions to help others. “Seeing learners expand their knowledge and progress in the industry is very satisfying.”

Learners attend classes once every month to six weeks and attend study days and nights. Learners who require additional support have access to a learning support team and mentors.

Wayne says the learning supports the whole farm operation because everyone is motivated to progress together, and he credits the farm’s high staff retention rate with the team having the opportunity to learn and gain qualifications.

New Owners for World Famous Sheffield Pies

The World Famous Sheffield Pies business is about to change hands. Shane and Loretta Paterson have sold the business that they first purchased in 2002 to Ben & Jo Holmes.

The Paterson’s history with the business goes back further than 2002 with Loretta working there when she was at school. Originally Sheffield Pies was a catering company, that sold pies out of the bakery window to locals. Founding owners John and Jenny Fairbrass started the business around 1975.

Shane and Loretta both qualified as bakers and headed off overseas, before purchasing the business from Dave & Dianne Stuart who were very supportive as they made their way in business. In 2015 they expanded into Oxford opening the very popular cafe on Main Street.

The couple say the support that they have received from the local community has been instrumental in making the business what it is today, and say “being part of the Sheffield community has always been an amazing thing. We were lucky enough to have that same support given when we came to Oxford”.

Acknowledging that they could not have achieved what they have without the backing of their incredible staff and family, they would like to thank everyone who has been a part of their journey over the past 21 years.

Loretta says “We are thrilled that Jo and Ben have bought the business. We wanted to pass on the business to people who have a real emphasis on being part of the community”.

Ben & Jo Holmes are no strangers to the hospitality scene. They started Niche Coffee & Eatery in Sumner in what Ben describes as a ‘saturated market’, and have been running this successful business for 2 years.

Before this Ben spent many years in the coffee industry, so between them they bring a lot of experience into the Sheffield Pies Business.

The couple are both excited to be taking on the Sheffield Pie brand, and are both very aware of the important place it holds in the Sheffield and Oxford communities. Ben says “everyone you talk to knows about it, and can’t go past without grabbing a pie”. Jo grew up in Oxford, attending Oxford Area School and says “it is like coming home, to own the business in Oxford”.

Pie lovers everywhere need not fear however, as no major changes are on the cards. Ben and Jo are thrilled that the staff are all staying and say they are conscious of carrying on the legacy that Shane & Loretta, and previous owners have built.

Ben says “We love adding value to a community, and hospitality is a great vehicle for this. It is a great community and we want to keep the huge legacy of Sheffield Pies rolling on”.

Ben and Jo take ownership of the business mid-June, and are looking forward to supporting the staff, and getting involved in the community.

fromthe Editors

Welcome to the June issue of the Observer.

We have an emphasis on Volunteering this month, as Volunteer week runs from 18th-24th June.

Oxford has a huge number of community groups, sports groups and other organisations that rely on volunteers to run, and we all benefit in some way from the efforts of these volunteers.

Everyone featured on the cover volunteers in some capacity in the community.

Of course there are hundreds more that we couldn't fit in! Thank you to everyone who does their bit to make Oxford a better place.

It is not long now until the Oxford Matariki Winter Lights Festival - run by OPAC which is another volunteer organisation in the town. Check out pages 8 and 9 for more about OPAC, and how to get involved.

We hope you enjoy all the local content

See you next month!

All efforts are made to verify the correctness of information contained within this publication.

However Schnurrbart Design and Publishing accept no liability for the correctness or accuracy of any information contained within these pages.

Any views, information or opinions expressed within this publication are not necessarily the opinions or views of Schnurrbart Design and Publishing or any of its providers.

Bruce & Emily.

Former Oxford Musician on World Tour

Emily Farrell first picked up the bass guitar ten years ago at Oxford Area School. Now, she is playing across the world with upcoming Kiwi artist PRINS (Alannah Prins), guitarist Caleb and manager/sound engineer Luke.

The world tour- named after PRINS’s newest hit ‘Goodbye to the old me’ - is split into two sections, the first of which took place in May. After playing in Australia, the team headed to the Philippines and introduced PRINS to Asia.

The second leg of the tour begins in June and starts where it left off- PRINS was so well received in the Philippines that she has been invited back to perform at the Kayabe Festival. Then, she will continue to Barcelona, playing at the Primavera Pro Festival. Over the course of the tour, PRINS will play shows in Spain, London and North America.

Emily can’t wait for the jam packed June itinerary, explaining, “there's a particular venue, Camden Assembly, that we are quite excited to play at as it has had some great names play there such as Dua Lipa and Cold Play in their early gigging days!” Performing in front of thousands as a musician is a lifetime achievement, and a chance to play in such a renowned venue is the cherry on top.

Music has always played a large role in Emily’s life.

“I play music because it literally fulfils my soul. I think that growing up, music was a really good escape from my reality, into this world where I could think and express myself in a way that I couldn't verbally.” She recalled a moment on tour where she could tell she had made it; “in the Philippines we played this incredible festival called ‘Castaway' in a place called Pampanga. We played to over 15,000 people.

Definitely the biggest audience me or the band had ever played to. Nothing beats the feeling of walking out on stage to that number of people. It was one of those capacity building moments in life where I will be chasing the feeling of that performance high forever.”

However, it was quickly evident that the touring life isn’t one for the faint hearted. The shows are separated by long travelling days to the next location.

The team snuck sleep in wherever it was possible and Emily even found herself setting up camp for a nap on the Singapore airport floor!

Words by Beka Hunt - photos by Man Kikz photography

Some days, shows were cancelled due to dangerous weather. On one such occasion, the team was unable to travel due to severe flooding, and found themselves trapped in Oslob (an area of the Philippines).

They made the most of the spare time and hired scooters to explore the surrounding area. That day quickly became one of Emily’s favourites, as she was able to swim with whale sharks and relish the tourist life.

Emily also enjoyed experiencing the culture. It was clear that once she left Australia she had entered a place with a different way of life. “The biggest thing I felt was that time doesn't really exist on tour, and overseas in general.

Especially in the Philippines, they were very laid back with schedules.” At shows, the Filipino audience offered their full attention. There was no room for the more common Kiwi atmosphere of drinking and chatting during the performance.

Emily was even pulled in front of the camera at CNN with no warning. “The day we landed in the Philippines we jumped right into a CNN television interview. I didn't actually expect to talk- it was just planned for Alannah (PRINS)- but the crew scooted me and the unsuspecting guitarist, onto air and threw us some questions!

So, I'm definitely learning to roll with whatever comes our way and to be prepared for literally ANYTHING.”

When the tour ends, Emily will return to her busy life of bass itinerant lessons, ensembles, cover bands and recording studios.

She knows that the journey with PRINS isn’t over, and that there’s plenty more opportunities coming her way- ones that she will happily accept. “What I have always lived by is to say yes to everything, be it big or small; which is ultimately why I believe I am where I am in my journey in life.” There is a third tour leg in the making, with a location to be revealed in the near future, so watch this space!

A world tour is just the start for Emily- the only way to go is up.

Are you ready for your first home loan?

It can be daunting applying for a home loan for the first time, and there are several things you can do to increase your chances of an approval.

Start to get your deposit ready by budgeting and setting a savings plan. A realistic amount saved regularly, is better than putting too much in your savings account only to have to take it out again. You need to show the bank you can manage money well. Tailoring your spending to what it will be once you move into your first home is a good idea, to work out how much you could save now toward your deposit, and show the bank you can afford that home loan.

A good resource to help you set a budget, repay debt, and work out what a home loan may cost you, can be found on www.sorted.org.

Banks generally require a 20% deposit. First home buyers may be able to purchase a mortgage with as little as a 5% deposit through the government agency Kainga Ora.

Their website has lots of information on how they can help first home buyers, or talk to a mortgage broker. You may also be able to access funds in your Kiwi Saver to fund your deposit as well as your savings.

Banks will look at your account conduct, so make sure you don’t miss payments and overdraw your account. As incurring dishonour fees and late payments may mean waiting to get your accounts in order before getting a home loan.

Not accumulating, and paying back short-term debt before you apply for your loan will look favourable on your application. It will also increase the amount you can borrow as short-term debt can be costly.

If you do need to clear short-term debt including After Pay, you can either start by clearing the smallest debt first or the high interest rate debt first.

I’m available for a no obligation chat about how you can achieve buying your first home and all other residential lending advice.

Janet Bramham

OPAC - A Passion for the Community.

The Oxford Promotions Action Committee Inc. (OPAC) is a group of volunteers with a passion for promoting Oxford as a place to live, to work, to visit and to relax.

The mission statement of the group is to promote and celebrate the beauty, attractions and services of the Oxford Area. To encourage community and economic development and to enhance employment and business. To encourage the community, visitors and tourists to experience and enjoy the Oxford Area and to engage the public in community events.

One of these events is the annual Matariki Winter Lights Festival, running this year from 1-16th July, where residential houses and businesses light up their houses and windows. This year the prizes are generous vouchers which can be spent at any business in Oxford.

Check out the ad on the opposite page for more information on the event.

OPAC also hosts the very popular Garage Sale Trail, which for years now has been a great success. People come from near and far to find great treasures, and while they are in Oxford they enjoy the town’s hospitality.

The group has a new website www.oxfordnewzealand.co.nz which showcases events, activities and services available to people in Oxford.

Pete Reilly, owner of Black Beech Wine & Pizza Bar is back on board this year as President, with a new committee, and is looking forward to another positive year in the community.

OPAC currently has the most members they have ever had, and he would like to invite others to join. You don’t have to be a business to join, anyone is welcome. The group is very focused on promoting the town, and have been working on a jingle that will be played on radio stations to encourage visitors to Oxford.

Membership is reasonable at $40.00 per year and it is a great way to connect with other community members and business owners, and to give back to your community.

To get in touch or if you have any questions, you can email admin@oxfordnewzealand.co.nz.

021 0421817

Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, build your dream home, invest in a rental property, refinance, or consolidate debt, I can help.

The Oxford District Nursing team are finally the proud owners of a new Nissan XTrail vehicle made possible by generous donations from the Malvern Farmers Veterinary Club and the Oxford Budget Boutique. The Budget Boutique raises money for the community through their shop, and while this is usually administered by the Oxford Community Trust, the Budget Boutique made a direct donation to the Oxford Community Health Centre to assist in the purchase of the car.

The Oxford & Districts Lions assisted in the process of sourcing the vehicle.

Along with these major funders, the District Nursing team also worked tirelessly at their stall at the Oxford A&P Show to raise funds for their vehicle and were also grateful for donations from Ashley Industrial and the Fresh Choice Supermarket who donated a trolley of groceries for us to raffle. Members of the community are always generous and bought raffle tickets and made donations towards the vehicle.

The District Nursing Team take their service out into Oxford and the surrounding areas on a daily basis, sometimes having to drive through paddocks, along gravel roads, negotiate fords and drive through snow and black ice to look after members of our community.

The Oxford District Nursing team of Erin, Mandy & Jo say “We wish to express our gratitude to the local community members whom generously contributed towards purchasing the new four-wheel drive vehicle. Allowing our team to access remote properties safely is important to ensuring our community have access to our services. Having a spacious vehicle means we are able to deliver mobility items that people in Oxford Community are grateful to receive whenever they need a helping hand.”

As a charitable trust the Oxford Community Health Centre invests any profits they make back into the community and appreciate all those who donate to us. The future vision for the Oxford Community Health Centre is to raise enough capital to bring the community a purpose-built state-of-the-art Medical Centre.

If you would like to support the Oxford Community Health Centre you can find a link on our webpage oxfordhealth.nz

Get Involved - Volunteering in Oxford

June 18th -24th is National Volunteer Week, and the theme this year is ‘Time to Shine – He wā pīataata.’ It is a time to thank all the volunteers that make our community a better place, and to showcase some of the ways that you can get involved.

Volunteering is more than just helping others, although this is certainly a huge part of it. There are a large number of services, events and community groups that are run entirely by volunteers, which benefits everyone living in the community. As well as helping others, the benefits to individuals who volunteer are extensive, including helping them to feel connected in their community, and sharing a purpose with others. In a rural community, it is easy to feel a sense of isolation, but Oxford has a lot of options to get involved. There is absolutely something for everyone!

U-Drive Programme

U-Drive is a mentored driving programme to help youth move from their Learner’s Licence to their Restricted. Mentors are trained to help the young people practise their driving weekly, to gain the skills needed.

Trish has been involved in the U-Drive programme for about 3 years. Her role entails weekly driving, first in Oxford, then Rangiora for about 10 -12 weeks, teaching everything from proper mirror use, how to negotiate roundabouts, traffic lights, parallel parking, turning correctly, speed control, proper hand use on steering wheel & generally how to be a confident driver in all conditions. Trish says “I just love it, taking people from nervous & over cautious drivers to be confident in all aspects of driving. They start off making mistakes, driving very slowly, no idea how to parallel park to being very confident in every aspect of driving. The grin of success when they get their restricted licence is fabulous.”

U-Drive is run by Oxford Community Trust - 03 312 3006

Oxford Gallery toi o Waimakariri

Located at 72 Main Street, Oxford Gallery is ‘A place to create, learn, explore, demonstrate and display visual arts.’

Judith has been volunteering at the Oxford Gallery for about three years, and does at least two duties a month, but often more if they are short. A shift at the Gallery for her involved being a friendly face when people come in to visit, being able to chat about the current exhibition, and also art work available to purchase, and also having some knowledge of the Oxford township, and being able to recommend places to visit. Volunteers get to work alongside others to learn the ropes, and full training is provided. Judith says “I enjoy being able to give something back to the community, being involved in an important part of the community, plus the camaraderie of the other volunteers.”

www.oxfordgallery.org.nz 03 312 1639

CELEBRATING NATIONAL

VOLUNTEER WEEK 18-24 JUNE

We are lucky to live in such a great District where so many individuals and organisations voluntarily give their time to the community.

Council would like to acknowledge your contribution to making Waimakariri such a great place to live.

To all the foodbank volunteers, community drivers, committee members, emergency services, fundraisers, environment champions, coaches and more – thank you!

Become a volunteer

Giving your time and skills to help others can be a real boost to your personal wellbeing.

The Volunteer Directory on council website lists many local groups and projects that would appreciate more volunteers.

Find out more at waimakariri.govt.nz/ community/community-information

Oxford Benevolent & Improvement League (OB&I)

The purpose of the OB&I League is "To raise funds to assist and to contribute to benevolence generally”. They raise funds through the running of movies at the Oxford Town Hall for the benefit of the community.

Alice has been volunteering for the OB&I League for around 7 years. She is Secretary which involves administrative tasks, but along with this she also attends the movies regularly to assist with the set up of the venue, ticket selling, greeting patrons and cleaning up at the end of the movies. Alice says “I have met some amazing local people through my volunteering with OB&I League, and I love movies. It is hugely satisfying to be part of an organisation giving the opportunity of viewing movies locally.”

www.oxfordmovies.nz

Oxford Senior Citizens

Oxford Senior Citizens hold monthly meetings for the purpose of entertainment, fellowship and outings. It is open to retired people within the Oxford ward and other members at the discretion of the committee.

Jan has been a member of OSC for 5 years, and is in her second year in the role of Secretary. She says “At our meetings we try to have entertainers or speakers of interest for us. We also do outings during the year and have a mid year luncheon and a Christmas dinner. If you would like to get involved, subs are $10 a year and new members are welcome anytime. Meetings are held second Wednesday of the month. For more information you can contact the President, Sarah on 027 7557196.

Waimakariri District Council recognises the huge contribution by not-for-profit groups and organisations in providing so many services and activities in our district. The vast majority of these groups rely on volunteers to function. Volunteers who are passionate about the work of an organisation often find they need to fill governance roles, but may not necessarily have those skills. The Council Community team provides workshops on many topics of value for volunteers to upskill, such as funding, health and safety and communication plans. They can also provide assistance to groups with strategic planning or reviewing their governance structure. For more information on these workshops or for any assistance, you can contact Wendy Howe Community Development Facilitator at wendy.howe@wmk.govt.nz, or 032669151 .

If you are interested in finding a way to get involved and become a volunteer in Oxford, please feel free to pop into the Oxford Community Trust, and they can have a chat about some of the options that are out there in the community for you. They are based at 37 Main Street, or you can call them on 312 3006.

Karadean News

Karadean resident Anne Bennett recently turned 99, so a party was thrown to celebrate for the residents, and her family and friends.

An afternoon high tea was held to celebrate the King's Coronation, with everyone dressed up in hats and pearls. Families and local Oxford volunteers were invited.

New Business Hub for Oxford - 134 High

It’s hard to miss the new business hub as you come into Oxford. What was once the Oxford vet clinic has been converted into a modern, stylish hub, housing four businesses.

Social Beauty, Country Physio, Sprout Accounting and Lavender Springs Massage

Social Beauty

Social Beauty is owned by Lauren Blake who is a highly experienced beauty therapist. She has worked in the industry for almost 15 years, and has had her own business for 5 years. She has made the move from a home based studio into the premises at 134 High Street. She says “Social Beauty is a welcoming environment for all beauty needs.

I sell a range of retail products and my services I offer are body waxing, brow and lash enhancements, facials, makeup, spray tanning and nails. Lauren is part of the NZ Association of Qualified Beauty Professionals, which means she is trained to a high standard and is fully insured. Strict health and hygiene guidelines are followed to ensure everyones safety. Lauren says “I am a relaxed easy going mum of 3. I look forward to being part of Oxford community and am happy to donate to future events and fundraisers.

To get in touch with Lauren call 0211245785

Check out the Social Beauty Facebook page, where there is a link to an easy online booking system.

Country Physio

Country Physio is a private practice physiotherapy clinic owned by Charlotte Palmer. Charlotte has been a physio for 7 years, and worked in a sports based practice before coming to Oxford. She has another physio on board, Tiana, who works on a Friday. The pair can see both ACC and private injuries, without any need for a referral from your doctor.

Charlotte says “We have a hands-on approach to physio. We like to combine massage etc with exercises to do at home that complement what we've done in the clinic.” If required referrals can be made for x rays, ultrasounds and to specialists or sports doctors. Charlotte says “I enjoy meeting people and helping them get back doing the things they love.”

When she is not at work Charlotte enjoys walking or running with her dog, baking and reading, and crazy home reno projects. The best way to book in to see Charlotte or Tiana is to call 020 400 500 11. You can also book online through the website www.countryphysio.co.nz

Sprout Accountants

Sprout Accountants has been operating in Oxford since 2019 after relocating from Auckland. Owner Gillian says “I was an associate at a large international accounting practice when I left to start my own practice. When I moved to Oxford, my clients all came with me, and we have continued to grow.

I have experience with businesses from sole traders through to listed on the NY stock exchange, and everything in between. I can offer clients the wealth of experience of big city accountants, at a much better price. I also have a good network to tap into, to support clients in all areas of their business.”

When she is not working Gillian loves getting out and about in the outdoors in Canterbury. She is also a keen cyclist and school cycling coach.

To get in touch with Sprout Accountants you can contact them on 03 3121264 or through their website www.sproutaccountants.co.nz.

Lavender Springs Massage Therapy

Owner Leanne offers Remedial Massage Therapy in Oxford, and a mobile service throughout North Canterbury. There are a range of relaxation, remedial massage and therapeutic services available.

To get in touch you can phone Leanne on 021-703-634 or via her facebook or website www.lavendersprings.co.nz https://www.facebook.com/lavendersprings8

The Hub has excellent off street parking available and is a warm welcoming environment for these business owners to welcome their clients into.

Owner Stephanie Evans says “I’m very happy that the old vet clinic has new life breathed into it again. It’s an excellent location for any business, and I hope Oxford locals will support them.”

WHATS HAPPENING AT THE OXFORD CLUB!

ROYAL QUIZ NIGHT

THURSDAY 8TH JUNE 7PM

Join us for our Qwizard Quiz nights - Register your team of 4-6 players for a 7pm start. FREE to enter and come dressed as a King or Queen to be in to win an extra prizes!

HAPPY HOUR

DURING ALL SUPER RUGBY FINALS!

MEGA MEAT RAFFLES

SUNDAY 11TH JUNE FROM 3PM

UP TO 30 RAFFLES – TICKETS JUST $2

• 40 tickets per ra�e

• 1st Prize $25 Meat Tray

• 2nd, 3rd, 4th, Prize $15 Meat Tray

• 5th Prize $10 voucher. Final loosing ticket draw $100 voucher.

$10 Jugs, $9 Quarts & $7 House Wines (200ml)

• Quarter Finals – Friday 9th & Saturday 10th

• Semi Finals – Friday 16th & Saturday 17th

• Final Saturday 24th June

Super Rugby Picks Competition Presentation 5pm Sunday 25th June

SUNDAY 2ND JULY

Annette’s Heart of the Country Country Showcase 1.30pm Live Country Music from 5 Artists Great Ra�es, Dancing & Fun ENTRY $10

JAB BINGO FUNDRAISER

SUNDAY 25TH JUNE 3PM

Purchase your cards to play Bingo & ra�e tickets in the function support the Oxford Rugby Club junior teams.

WHAT’S ON EVERY WEEK!

• Wednesday – Happy Hour 5.30pm-6.30pm, Meat Ra�es 6pm

• Thursday – Free Pool Tables, Free Quiz night 7pm

• Friday – 6pm Section Ra�es & Free Fries

• Saturday 6pm – Meat Ra�es

New Leadership for Oxford Club Committee

by Emily Chapman

The Oxford Club recently held elections for their Committee. The Club is run by this committee of volunteers, and also a General Manager Donna Hughes and her team of staff.

Kyle Scott was elected President, and Lin Fagan Vice-President. While they realise they are taking these positions after what has been an extremely challenging time in hospitality, brought on initially by the Covid pandemic, they and management are focused on moving the Club forward.

Kyle says “The Oxford Club is an important part of the tapestry of the District, and we want to make sure it continues in the future”. The Club is rumoured to be one of the oldest of it’s type in the country, having been formed 136 years ago. Bringing with him years of experience with community organisations, including 8 years as President of the Hokitika Club, Kyle says it was with the encouragement of his wife Liz that he stood for President in this election. He says “I really want to acknowledge and thank my wife, who is an incredibly supportive woman”.

Kyle has also had a lot of experience in being involved in events, and enjoys the variety of events the Club offers. It comes as no surprise that he enjoys this, being a musician himself.

Lin joined the committee last year, and was pleased to be elected Vice-President this election. She has been a member of the Club for 9 years, and says “The Club was a real lifeline for me when my husband passed away”. She realised she would like some more social interaction, and joined both the Cards and Travel Sections of the Club. She has loved her involvement in both of these Sections, and these are just 2 of the twelve sections covering a wide range of interests that are offered at the Oxford Club. Lin met lots of different people through this and says “If I hadn’t stepped out and joined these groups - where would I be?”. When she got involved she was looking at where she could be most valuable, and one of the things she decided to work on was the Club Library.

Many people may not know that there is a Library, as it had

become a bit of a storage area, but with a lot of hard work it was able to reopen at the beginning of the year.

Both Kyle and Lin would like to see a range of activities to appeal to everyone in the Community, with Lin saying “ I would really like to see it become a family venue in the weekends”. They are looking to embrace new and different things to encourage every demographic to make the Club their social hub, and for it to be a vibrant and welcoming venue for the Community.

The Committee are going through the process of strategic planning soon, and both Kyle and Lin reiterate that while these are challenging times, the momentum of this very proactive committee can move the Club forward. They can see that they will work well together, with their different skills complementing each other. There are already some exciting events planned for this year, including the Court Jesters, a Grease Tribute show and a Halloween event, and of course many regular events including the weekly quiz night.

The Club is also available as a venue for hire for your private event. Junior memberships are available for 12-18 year olds who are able to make use of the Club’s facilities, but are unable to purchase alcohol, or access the TAB or gaming rooms.

To see what is coming up at the Oxford Club - check out the ad on the opposite page. If you are a member, and not receiving emails from the Club, let them know on info@oxfordclub.co.nz as regular emails are sent out to members to keep everyone updated.

If Club members or members of the local community would like to contact Kyle regarding matters relating to the Club, they are welcome to contact him on 027 755 6581.

New members are always welcome, you can contact the office, or ask at the bar for an application. It is a great time to join the Oxford Club and help them secure their future for the district.

Mike Hart : Tumuaki|Principal

High-quality teaching and learning.

If you were to follow some media stories you would be led to believe that the Year 1-8 students in our country need to be taught the basics better. I can reassure you our teachers are doing a fantastic job teaching and adapting the curriculum for our students, with particular focus and priority on reading, writing, and mathematics.

If you walk into a Year 1-8 class, you will see our teachers doing just that. Reading, writing, and mathematics are priorities in the classroom. Our teaching staff can confidently identify where our students are up to in the curriculum using the developed learning progressions we share with whānau | families. Toward the end of last term, our evaluative partner from the Education Review Office visited our classrooms coming to the same conclusion.

Last term we presented to our School Trustees evidence of last year's progress.

The exciting news is:

2022

Year 1-10 Expected learning within a year

Reading 85% ( 48% of this group progressed with acceleatred learning)*

Writing 88% (53% of this group progressed with acceleatred learning)*

Maths 83% (55% of this group progressed with acceleatred learning)*

*ie student has progressed more than one year's worth of learning in one year

In 2022 NCEA, 94.4% (80.8% national average) of our Level 1 students achieved their Numeracy requirements and 96.3% (81.6% national average) achieved their Literacy requirements.

These excellent outcomes are a result of (to name but a few):

• powerful student, family, and teacher relationships

• high quality trained and qualified teachers

• responsive learning support

• a feeling of safety and wellbeing

• low student to teacher class ratios

We are very proud of our achievements from 2022 as we continue to grow together, learn together and shine together.

Ngā mihi | thank you,

Mike Hart

Tumuaki | Principal

International update

It has been really exciting this year to welcome international students back to Oxford Area School. We have hosted students from Japan, Thailand and Germany and look forward to hosting a group from Shanghai in August. Would you like to be part of our team? We are looking to build our database of host families and especially encourage families with younger children to consider hosting.

If you are interested or have any questions please contact: Mary our International Homestay Coordinator homestay@oxford.school.nz

Pink Shirt Day

On Friday 19th May our school had our Pink Shirt Day. Pink Shirt Day is to help raise awareness for Bullying and to also show those being bullied that they have the support of the nation.

It was great to see so many people swapping out a uniform item for a Pink Shirt and some even coming to school in all pink. We raised a total of $242.40 and our bake sale raised a total of $417.30. Thank you to all of those who donated and showed their support.

Kōrero Mai, Kōrero Atu, Mauri Tū, Mauri Ora! Speak Up, Stand Together, Stop Bullying!

CASAfest 2023

Oxford Area School was one of six schools that attended the Canterbury Area Schools Cultural and Sporting Festival (CASAfest) which was hosted by Rangiora New Life School from Monday 3 - Wednesday 5 April.

Over the course of 3 days, students participated in six rounds of activities. Students opted into a variety of different activities which included backyard cricket, handball, athletics pentathlon, technology and bouldering, bowls, CrossFit, hockey, theatre sports, a quiz plus many more traditional and non-traditional sports so lots of variety and lots of fun! On the Tuesday night, a 'bright and white' themed social was held in the gym.Based on placings across all of the activities, Oxford finished as the top school. Hurunui College received the Fair play cup.Thank you to the staff who assisted over the three days - Tara Egerton, Megan Lowen, Paula Christensen and Reese Kean. A special thanks goes to Nicky Stagg and Anita Stubbs who assisted with transport.

Deb Baggott

Year 9 Craigieburn Camp

In May, the Year 9 students went on camp! We stayed at the Forest Lodge at Mt. Cheeseman in the Craigieburns and did a variety of activities testing our resilience and pushing our comfort zones.

Hood

by Jesse Moore

That's a wrap! What an amazing time we've had during our time performing 'HOOD'! We hope that everyone that came enjoyed it and had as much fun as we did putting on the show.

A show like this takes a village to run so I want to thank everyone that was involved in some way...

- To all the cast members, thank you for all your hard work and dedication to performing such a great show, you guys should be super super proud!

- To all the behind-the-scenes crew (the hair and makeup, the costumes, the lights, the set, the sound, the stage managers), thank you for committing time and effort to making the show the best it could be (even working right up to opening night!)

- To the front of house crew (tickets, sales, programmes), you have made my job so much easier and having your friendly faces on the door made the experience top notch!

We left from school and first headed to the rocks at Castle Hill, we worked as a team to climb over obstacles, pushed our way through squeezes, and bouldered as we explored the beautiful natural environment. From there we headed over to the lodge at Mt. Cheeseman. Here we walked through the high-country wetlands and got our feet wet on our way and finally arrived at the lodge where the boys set up tents and girls settled into bunkrooms. That night the boys cooked on their cookers and bundled up for a cold night. The next morning we woke to fresh snow and flurries coming down. As the sun came out, we took off on a tramp which included on and off-track walking developing our map reading and navigation skills.

- To Miss Wallace, thanks for directing such an amazing, well-polished show; everyone can see the time and mahi that you have invested into the directing and choreographing of the show, and you too should be super proud of this final product.

Finally, thank you to everyone that came out and supported the show!

I'm super biased but I think we have an amazing Performing Arts department, and being able to showcase the great talent from Oxford Area School will always be a highlight for me, as I'm sure it is for you too!

When we returned to the lodge the girls pitched their tents and cooked on cookers before the boys joined them from the lodge for s’mores to celebrate all the Year 9’s hard work throughout camp. The final morning we had some tired campers, but they all managed to pack their gear and clean the lodge before heading out for the bus. We ended camp burning off our remaining energy running up a big hill before boarding the bus for school. Overall camp was a fantastic experience for all the students and staff involved and I cannot wait for the next one!

www.facebook.com/oxfordarea

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

CORCORAN FRENCH

KAIAPOI ART EXPO

SATURDAY 8 & SUNDAY 9 JULY • 10AM TO 5PM

RIVERVIEW LOUNGE, KAIAPOI CLUB, GOLD COIN ENTRY GUEST ARTIST: SAM YOUNG

Mayoral update

with Dan Gordon

I hope this column finds you all well as we head into the cooler months and with it all the colds, flu’s and ailments that winter brings.

It’s also a time to be mindful of the road conditions. If there’s frost on your windscreen or lawn there’s likely to be ice on the roads. Please drive carefully and keep safe.

Don’t forget also to check in on your neighbours and loved ones, particularly those who are vulnerable, isolated, or living alone. The much talked about ‘cost of living crisis’ has already hit many people hard and when you add to that the increased heating and fuel bills over winter it will mean some people will be doing it particularly tough.

Come check out hundreds of artworks from 130 local artists all under one roof including painting, photography, ceramics, woodwork and more.

PLUS on Saturday get involved in an interactive art display, watch the Blackwell’s Live Ice Sculpting event and then head to the Fire and Ice Market kicking off at 5pm. www.kaiapoiartexpo.co.nz

I want people to know they are not alone. We have a newly launched website called Next Steps which is a local directory that puts people in touch with support services, anonymously. When times are tough it’s hard to figure out your next step. But if you or someone you know needs help or support please check out www.nextsteps.org.nz/ or talk to family or friends.

As I’m sure many of you will have seen, Waimakariri District Council has appointed Jeff Millward as our new Chief Executive. Jeff has just shy of four decades of experience in the local government sector and most recently has been Acting Chief Executive at the Council.

We had some great candidates apply for the role but Jeff stood out as someone who is diligent, strategic, focused and has a strong and genuine connection to the District, its people, and our Council. He was the unanimous choice.

The Council and I are excited to have selected Jeff and are looking forward to working with him in his new role.

In May I visited Wellington with my Canterbury Mayoral Forum colleagues (Mayors of the nine other territorial authorities in Canterbury and the Chair of Environment Canterbury) where we were hosted by Hon Dr Megan Woods.

There we put the recently refreshed “Plan for Canterbury” before nine Government ministers. Top of the to-do list while at the Beehive was advocating for permanent co-investment in flood protection schemes for the region. Then immigration and skills policies that will work for Canterbury; greater collaboration on an integrated approach to transport funding, and supporting Canterbury’s continued economic development and emergency management.

These led to valuable discussions with Ministers around climate change adaptation, challenges for local and central government around transport funding and investment in science as well as research and innovation to address some of our environmental challenges.

As always, I welcome contact from anyone who needs assistance or has an issue they may want to discuss. Email me at dan.gordon@wmk.govt.nz or phone 021906437.

I’m here to help.

Rising temperatures will impact water quality in lakes and rivers

Releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere at our current rate will increase average temperatures in Waitaha/Canterbury by up to 3.5°C by 2090.

itstimecanterbury.co.nz

Rising temperatures

As greenhouse gases increase, so do temperatures – both here in Waitaha/Canterbury and around the world. Continuing to release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere at our current rate will mean that average temperatures in Waitaha/Canterbury could be up to 1.5°C warmer by 2040, and up to 3.5°C warmer by 2090.

Temperature increases are likely to be even greater in the mountains and high country where by 2090, if no action is taken, average spring and summer maximum temperatures could soar as much as 6°C higher than today's average.

Small temperature increases make a big difference.

With just a 0.5°C-1.5°C increase, we'll see impacts here in Waitaha/Canterbury, with many more hot and dry periods in spring and summer.

Rising temperatures trigger other changes too. Rainfall patterns and growing seasons shift, droughts and fires become more likely, and there will be less snow and fewer frosts.

Rising temperatures are the catalyst that leads to other major impacts of climate change: drought, fire, severe storms and changing rainfall patterns, and sea level rise.

If we all make a real effort to cut emissions, it's possible that we can limit warming in Waitaha/Canterbury beyond 2030. https://environmentcanterbury.sharepoint.com

The Oxford Club – Your Social Hub

Greetings from the Oxford Club, which has been a focal hub and integral part of Oxford and the wider community since 1887, some 136 years.

The Club has a second to none reputation for a relaxed friendly atmosphere for its members and guests. The Oxford Club is the Social Hub in Oxford and the wider district, and has an active social calendar of events and activities which will appeal to everybody young and old.

The Oxford Club plays a vital role also as part of the social fabric of Oxford and our wider community. The Club has supported and contributed to many organisations, community groups and sporting clubs over many years.

Unfortunately, the challenging and difficult times we live in have also affected the Oxford Club. This taken with the effects of Covid, have led to a decline in active membership and the Club’s revenue stream.

I believe that we all, that is Club members and our extended community, want to see our Club continue into the next millennium. This will benefit our children, grand and great grandchildren and the Oxford Community.

The Club has something for everyone, including twelve sections which cater for many interesting activities right across the spectrum. These include Cards, Classic Vehicles, Claybird Shooting, Darts, Fishing, Golf, Indoor and Outdoor Bowls, Pool, Racing, Travel, Vintage and Line Dancing is also being held at the Club.

We Need your help!

The Club needs all it’s members to use our Club on a regular basis and we would love to see new members joining our wonderful Club.

If you live in Oxford and the surrounding district “come on down” and become a member.

Joining the Club is easy, just pop into the Club and ask our friendly staff for an application form and fill it out and we will do the rest. Being a member of the Oxford Club has many benefits including reciprocal visiting at Clubs and RSA’s throughout New Zealand and Australia.

We also reward members with loyalty points on all purchases. The Club’s governance is carried out by an elected committee headed by new President Kyle Scott and ably assisted by new Vice President Lin Fagan, and Donna Hughes as the Club Manager. The Club Committee, Management and staff are actively looking at ways to make the Club and facilities an even more enjoyable member and visitor experience.

We would also like to hear from you, the people who use our Club, what you think will make our Club even better. Lastly, these days we can no longer take “things for granted”

– The Oxford Club is no different.

Support - Join the Oxford Club

Your Social Hub – Join the Oxford Club

Thank you for reading this article.

Best regards

Kyle Scott | Club President

chickens, sheep, pigs, goats & horses

GARDENING

NUTS, BOLTS, CATCHES & LATCHES

JUNE TREE SPECIALS UP TO 30% OFF

LARGE GRADE TREES

Freeman maples, Canadian Maples, Hornbeam Standards, Upright Liquidambar, Empress Tree, and Ornamental Pear

LANDSCAPE GRADE TREES

Norway Maples, American Maples, Florida Cherokee Dogwoods, Liquidambar, Oriental and London Planes

RETAIL GRADE TREES

Chestnuts, Alders, Cedars, Barrel Gum, Manna Ash, Bay tree, Tulip tree, Oaks, Redwoods, Swamp Cypress, and Broadleaf Lim

20%

SATURDAY 10TH - FRIDAY 16TH JUNE

10AM-4PM

479 Ashley Gorge Road, Oxford

Sorry No E pos -Please wear sturdy Shoes

Community Partnership provides Meals for Foodbank

by Emily Chapman

Some recipients of food assistance from the Oxford Community Trust will soon be receiving food prepared by the Oxford Area School Hospitality and Foods students from Years 11 and 12 in their food parcels.

The Oxford and Districts Lions grow a large amount of produce that gets distributed around North Canterbury to food banks, including that of the Oxford Community Trust. Manager Jo Ealam approached Oxford Area School and asked if they were able turn the produce into meals for food parcels.

The Year 12 Hospitality and Foods students are working on standards that involve catering to a target audience eg. someone who has coeliac disease. With the pumpkins and potatoes donated by the Oxford & District Lions they have made up soup packs. Fruit crumbles are also on the menu when it’s time for a sweet treat, made with donated apples. The Year 11’s came up with the idea of making single servings of these for those who are living alone.

Technology HOD Paula Christensen says “sometimes time can be a barrier to creating a nutritious meal, and with these packs it is easy.” They contain veggies, and a gluten free stock and spice pack.

Not only are the students gaining experience and credits, but they are also helping to enhance links with other organisations, and helping students give back in a meaningful way to their community.

Paula says part of the School’s Deep Learning for this year is looking at the needs around them, and what they can do to solve the need. Student Chloe Henderson says “I think it is good to help people by giving back to the community. We can do something for them, and look out for people who need a bit of support”.

The cost of living has had an impact on most people, and food banks across the country are finding their supplies are dwindling faster than usual. The Oxford Community Trust has not been immune to this, and has seen a large increase in the number of parcels going out the door.

Manager Jo Ealam says “There are lots of people accessing our services who have never had to ask for help before.” She is very happy to have some easy nutritious options to put in food parcels going out.

The collaboration of these three organisations is just another example of how much support is out there for anyone who needs it and what a great community we live in!

EMERGENCY SERVICES

ST JOHN update with Mel Brooker

Well, I must say it has been a good month. Burglaries are down, but we are still receiving reports of suspicious vehicles and people in places where they should not be. So be vigilant and keep the reports coming. In saying that, I am still getting a lot of reports coming through via word of mouth and the likes, the Rural Outlook App is a great way to report those low-level incidents. It is quick and easy to download the App, and make yourself familiar with it. If you are having problems, come and see us and we will be happy to help.

On a similar note, I have been approached by a number of people about what they should be doing if they find someone offending, whether it be on their property or in a store. My answer is simple. Report, get as much detail as you can, but not so much as to put yourself in harms way. It is simply not worth it. You can be putting yourself at risk of serious harm. So please report, don’t try and intervene. It’s simply not worth it.

It’s been a changeable time with the weather, rain and freezing cold one day then beautiful sun the next. Please be vigilant out there on the roads. Slow down and be safe out there.

Enjoy and stay safe. Feel safe.

FIRE RESCUE update with

Trevor Ealam

It has been another busy month on the Ambulance. We have been to jobs from Darfield to Loburn and Rangiora, as well as around Oxford. The weather has certainly got cooler. During these cooler months, please remember to make sure your windshields are completely clear before you begin your journey.

During winter it is important to also be careful on the footpaths that may be icy. If you do slip on the ice, please call for help and ask for blankets to keep warm while waiting for help to arrive.

It is also a timely reminder to encourage those loved ones, to please use their medical alarms if they have a fall. Did you know there are more people that suffer from Hypothermia after a fall in their own bathroom and spending the cold night there, than people being exposed to the cold up in the mountains?

If you are living alone, are a little unsteady on your feet, or getting to your golden years, a St John Medical alarm is a very good idea. It is connected directly to St John and if the return phone call is not answered, an ambulance is dispatched immediately, giving your loved ones the best care in a timely manner.

I am excited to say we have several new recruits in the process of becoming qualified to join our local team. Thank you and welcome to you all. Keep warm, safe and well. The ambulance station at Oxford is not manned 24 hours a day. If you require emergency assistance please call 111

Well April turned out to be a very quiet time for the Brigade with only one call, which was to a fire under some pine trees. This brings our total calls for the year to seventeen.

It was nice to be able to visit the View Hill School for their fire wise program and talk about fire safety. The children were able to have a good look around the fire appliance. We were able to explain what the gear we carry is used for on various jobs we attend.

This months message is; KEEP YOUR CHILDREN SAFE. Always keep matches and lighters out of reach.

POLICE update with Mitch Alatalo

-

including GST & High Court fee

Cheryl Simes

‘Just because a lawyer holds the will, it doesn’t mean they hold the purse strings. Check their fees first.’

For Beautifully Handcrafted Books