The Observer - March 2024

fromthe Publishers

Welcome to the March issue of the Observer.

Our beautiful cover shot was taken at South Eyre Sunflowers at night by talented photographer Tammy Pfahlert. The team at South Eyre Sunflowers, with the support of local contractors and businesses raised a phenomenal sum to donate to local and nationwide charities.

We have more information about this on page 8 Another fundraiser for mental health was held last weekend with a group walking from Pegasus to Oxford, check this out on page 8.

What a great community we live in!

A highlight for the year for Oxford is always the Oxford A&P Show - this is coming up on March 30th, check out the programme on page 9.

We hope you enjoy this issue, it was a lot of fun to put together - as always, thank you so much for your support!

Cover Photo by

Tamara Pfahlert

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Area of Oxford designated as Dark Sky Park, enhancing regions stargazing appeal

by Beka Hunt

Oxford has been recognised on the international stage, joining a global effort to preserve the night sky.

11,350 hectares of the Oxford Forest Conservation area were officially designated a Dark Sky Park in January, a win for the team at the Oxford Observatory. A group of volunteers, officially named the Oxford Dark Sky Society, have spent months measuring the darkness in the forest.

To qualify as a Dark Sky park, they had to return an average of at least 21.2. After months of monitoring, the forest showed an average darkness of 21.45, even reaching 21.8 in some areas. This means that the light pollution is lower, so the stars are clearer and brighter. Raul Elias-Drago, the Society’s President, explained that a Dark Sky title isn’t based purely on one factor. There is also the importance of outreach and education.

Raul and the team documented their current involvement in the community, and their plans for informing others about the Dark Sky zone. As interest in the park grows, they must provide ways for the community to become involved.

Raul explained that the Society has a long term goal too; “we don’t want people to live in the dark, we want people to have a higher quality of life through better lighting.” He is referring to the positive impact on human health, improved safety and security, saving of energy and the protection of ecosystems that this title brings. However, while a Dark Sky park creates opportunities, maintaining it requires wide support.

Where a Dark Sky title is given, the tourism follows.

In New Zealand, the well regarded Aoraki Mackenzie Reserve is a Dark Sky success story. It covers a broad area, most notably Lake Tekapo. The Oxford Forest is smaller, so is classified as a park instead of reserve. However, a park will still greatly benefit Oxford by bringing enthusiasts to the area.

The Society arranged for an independent study on the employment and economic benefits of a Dark Sky zone in the area and found it to be a profitable venture. The findings indicate that Dark Sky tourism could generate $4.6 million of spending across Waimakariri, predicting over 50,000 extra annual visitors.

The Society is already working with other towns across New Zealand to build a Dark Sky trail, a series of reserves across the South Island, with a mapped route that visitors can follow. Kaikōura is also working towards their accreditation, as a trail could bring $45 million of tourism into the South Island.

Of course, the inclusion of the Oxford township in an Oxford Dark Sky reserve requires a discussion about the existing light sources. This is why education and outreach is a major factor in Dark Sky accreditation. Raul explained that lights don’t have to go, rather, they should only be used intentionally. For example, the sports floodlights.

The Dark Sky standard simply requires that they are turned off when not in use. The same would apply to farms that are operating in the dark over winter. The Dark Sky commitment would never impede their work. It is simply an honour based system of regulating light use. Raul hopes that the Oxford Observatory team can help the community galvanise and advocate for the Dark Sky, noting that 20 organisations are already on board and engaged in discussions about their contribution.

For those who are interested, the Society will be holding public information evenings, fun day activities and educational outreach over the next year. They are always willing to teach volunteers how to measure the sky's darkness, and they welcome questions. The Dark Sky park itself will be open seven days a week, 24 hours a day, accessible from Mountain Road and the View Hill car park. It provides the perfect opportunity to get outside and catch a glimpse of the Milky Way.

Contact information for those interested oxford.darksky@gmail.com | Oxford Dark Sky Facebook

Raul: 027 8070630

LEARN

Kia Rite Hoea workshop includes a comprehensive guide book and step by step planning sheets to help turn your great ideas into action.

Option 1: 2 Evening Sessions

Wednesday 3 & 10 April 2024, 6pm–8.30pm

Option 2: Full Day

Friday 17 May 2024, 9am–3pm

Ruataniwha Kaiapoi Civic Centre | $35 per person Registration essential for more information and registration: events.humanitix.com/kia-rite-hoea

with Louize Juniper

Recipe of the month.

LAMB MEATBALL SOUVLAKI

This is best cooked on the BBQ or use a grill plate.

INGREDIENTS

500g Lamb Mince

2 Cloves Garlic

1Tbsp Oregano

1 Tbsp Ground Cumin

1 Tbsp Smoked Paprika

1 Tsp Chilli Flakes

Salt & Pepper

Bamboo Skewers

2 Red Onions Sliced

Sprig Rosemary

¼ cup olive oil

1 Bag of pre-cut Coleslaw mix

½ Cup chopped Coriander

Juice of one Lemon

1 Cup Plain Greek Yogurt

TZATZIKI

½ Cucumber de-seeded

1 Cup Plain Greek Yogurt

1 Tbsp Lemon Juice

2 Cloves Chopped Garlic

½ Cup Chopped Mint

Flat bread

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

METHOD

• Soak bamboo skewers in water for 1 hr

• Put all meatball ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix well making sure all ingredients combine and begin to stick together.

• Make into 24 small meat balls. This can be made in advance and will improve in flavour.

• Thread 3 meat balls on to each skewer (two skewers per serve)

• Mix together coleslaw mix, again flavour will improve if made an hour in advance.

• Make Tzatziki by grating cucumber and mixing all the ingredients together.

• For the fried onions, put olive oil in heavy based saucepan, heat moderate, once hot add sliced onions and chopped rosemary & fry gently until beginning to brown.

• Cook Lamb meat balls on a hot BBQ till well charred

• Rub olive oil into the flat breads & toast on the grill pan or BBQ

• Build your souvlaki, flat bread, coleslaw, meatballs, fried onions and top with Tzatziki.

Eat and enjoy !

Maybe remove meatball from skewers first!!

Seeds of success: Sunflowers raise funds for community Stepping Forward for Mental Health

The team at South Eyre Sunflowers are reflecting on another successful season. With the help of local businesses and contractors they have been able to raise a huge total of $39,309.65. The money is split between Gumboot Friday and local Oxford groups. This year Oxford Community Trust, the Pump Track project, Oxford Volunteer Fire Brigade, Oxford St John, Oxford Area School and the Oxford Rugby Club were recipients of the local portion of the fundraising.

Organiser Kerry McCorry says “due to the amazing success of the sunflowers this season, a very last minute decision was made to make a donation to the Oxford Netball team who have been fundraising really hard for their trip to Australia this year. The Gumboot Friday donation equates to 140 counselling sessions.

The team would like to say a huge thank you to Chapman Agriculture, The Good Oil, Alan Fraser Grain and Seed, Stubbs Groundspreading, Oxford Agricultural Spraying who help make the project such a success.

Kerry also wants to acknowledge Bella Maitland Photography, Andrea Kewish Photography and Olivia Skidmore Photography who helped to promote the sunflowers and also donated big portions of their fees, along with J&J Real Fruit Ice cream who donated 20 percent of their profits to the project.

When asked what her highlight for the season is, Kerry says “it is all the smiles and happiness that the flowers bring”.

South Eyre Sunflowers will be back in 2025 so keep an eye out on their Facebook page for updates early next year.

Jimmy Gifford recently walked from Pegasus to Blackbeech Bar in Oxford to raise funds for I am Hope. After the loss of his 17 year old grandson to suicide last year, he wanted to raise $7000, which would be enough to provide counselling for 50 young people.

Pete and Dani Reilly, owners of Black Beech Pizza and Wine Bar were only too happy to jump on board to make this event a success.

Thanks to people's generosity, at the time of writing the Givealittle page was sitting at $15,033, but is expected to reach close to $20,000.

Setting out from Pegasus at 5am, Jimmy and friends headed to Oxford making it to Cust in six hours. Along they way they were joined by others including a representative from I am Hope and a photographer. Some walkers swapped out at Cust, and this, according to Pete Reilly from Black Beech Pizza and Wine Bar, was where the going got tough. 3 and 3 quarters of an hour later the group including Richie Barnett, former Kiwi rugby league player who joined them for the last 2kms, made it to Black Beech to a group cheering them in. Jimmy and his friends Geoff and Nathan walked the whole 42.6km.

Richie Barnett spoke on behalf of I am Hope and told the group that 12 young people under 25 take their lives every week.

Pete says ‘People have been so generous with donations, and giving us prizes for raffles and and auctions. We want to thank our locals for supporting this great cause”. With the money raised, many young people will have the ability to receive counselling that they may not have been able to access without funding.

If you would like to make a donation, the givealittle page is still open.

https://givealittle.co.nz/fundraiser/in-memory-of-justin

WELCOME TO THE OXFORD A&P ASSN 119th ANNUAL SHOW

CATTLE

PRESIDENT'S FEATURE MARQUEE

9.00am Local Producers and their wares

8.45am Dairy Showmanship Judging to Tastings

9.00am Beef Cattle Judging

9.15am Dairy Cattle Judging

8.15am Dog Trials commence - Pearson Park

8.30am Judging commences for Horses and Ponies

4.00pm

1.15pm Baby & Junior Show Entries taken

1.30pm Baby & Junior Show Judging

Donkeys and Mules MAIN ARENA

Alpacas 12.15pm Dog Agility Performance

1.45pm Terrier Race

GP HALL

8.45am GP Hall Entries to be staged

Post Entries close

2.00pm Supreme Awards

2.20pm President's Speech

2.30pm Grand Parade / Lolly Scramble

9.00am GP Hall closes Horse Jumping continues for judging

All Day Folk Art Demonstration

Art Exhibition

9.30am Scout Den closes for judging

CHILDREN'S ENTERTAINER

Josh Grimaldi - Magician between Highland & Wool Sheds

10.30am Balloon Twisting

11.30am Magic Show

9.30am Judging commences for 12.45pm Stilt Walking

Angora : Mohair 2.00pm Balloon Twisting

Dairy Goats Junior Judging

Highland Dancing

Sheep : Shearing

During Small Animal 'petting' area

the Art and Craft Stalls : Trade Sites

Day Food Stalls : Vintage Machinery

10.00am Judging commences for Emergency Services Displays

Pet Dogs : Pet Sheep/Lambs

Grain & Seeds : Hay & Silage

Poultry : Woodchopping

SHEEP : SHEARING

GP Hall Demonstrations & Displays

4.00pm Prize Money paid out at sections not from the Secretary's Office

12noon Sheep - - PLEASE SCANChampionship Awards

9.30am Shearing commences

SHOWGATE DRIVE

All Day Art and Craft Stalls

FreestyleNZ Motorbikes! Pedalmania

9am to Available beside 3.30pm Secretary's Office

a Mayoral Update with Dan Gordon

Recently I had the pleasure of attending and speaking at the Ashley Gorg-eous Family Gala.

It was a wonderful event celebrating an absolute gem in the crown of the Waimakariri District.

The funds raised from the event will go towards the tracks in particular the creation of an accessible walking track in the Ashley Gorge Reserve.

This will have wheelchair access and be a wonderful addition.

I thanked the members of the Ashley Gorge Reserve Advisory Group for all the hard work they have done and also acknowledged the Oxford Ohoka-Community Board and all the volunteers who have been involved in the work down there.

There has been significant investment made in the restoration of the pavilion as well as the BBQ and the connection to Oxford Town Water Supply. But this investment has been well worth it.

One of the biggest driving forces behind the vision for Ashley Gorge Reserve is Jean Pierre, the manager of the Ashley Gorge Holiday Park.

His dedication, hard work and love of the area is certainly evident at the reserve and it’s so appreciated.

Very soon we will be going out for consultation on our Long Term Plan (LTP).

The LTP is a key strategic plan that all councils are required to develop under the Local Government Act 2002. The LTP outlines the Council’s activities and how they are managed, delivered and funded including proposed rate increases. It’s important to us as a council that we prepared a prudent and responsible plan given the difficult economic environment we are operating in, while still ensuring we continue to deliver the high level of service our residents and ratepayers expect.

Consultation opens on 15 March and closes 15 April.

Consultation documents will be available on the council website: waimakariri.govt.nz and available at council service centres. We will also be holding drop in sessions across the District with one at the Oxford Town Hall A&P Room on Monday 8 April from 4pm to 6pm. We will also be at the Oxford A&P Show. We look forward to hearing what you think.

I welcome contact from anyone who needs assistance or has an issue that you might want to discuss. Email me at dan.gordon@wmk.govt or phone 021 906 437.

I’m here to help.

Dan.

It’s hard to believe we are already into February – it really doesn’t seem that long since I was enjoying taking part in the Oxford Santa Parade in December. But it’s definitely nice to see the children back at school with their friends and settling back into their weekly routines.

Like most parents I have loved spending time with my kids over the summer but there comes a time when the whole family is ready for them to get back to the classroom with their peers.

Well done to all those fellow parents who have juggled school holidays and work commitments again over the summer, and of course the best of luck to school staff and teachers for the new school year ahead.

I couple of weekends ago I was pleased to attend the launch of Oxford resident Wendy Gerritsen’s Ride 4 Awareness. Wendy came to see me last year to highlight her struggles with getting an accurate diagnosis of ovarian cancer, and she has become a staunch advocate for other women in her position. Wendy has organised the ride through the month of February, which is ovarian cancer awareness month, with the intention of raising awareness of the illness, the symptoms and treatment, through talking to as many people as she can along the way.

It was a real pleasure to bring in my colleague, Ilam MP Hamish Campbell, to show support for Wendy as she embarked on her mission. Well done Wendy for having the tenacity to organise such a large-scale event and for her bravery in going public with her own cancer journey for the sake of helping others. I wish her all the very best for the ride and look forward to hearing about it on her return.

If you would like to support Wendy’s efforts you can follow her on Facebook: Ride 4 Awareness of Ovarian Cancer. Lastly, I enjoyed meeting people like Wendy during my constituent clinics in Oxford last year, and look forward to meeting many more of you over the coming year. If you would like to make an appointment to come and see me, please do not hesitate to contact my office to arrange a time. I will continue to hold regular clinics in Oxford so please just reach out.

Sunstream

LOCAL SOLAR ENERGY SPECIALISTS

Sunstream Solar are a local to Oxford,  family owned business that has been operating since 2005. If you are considering a change to solar, the team will see you through the whole process, from an initial consultation, design of your system, and then monitoring and servicing. Owner Ian Johns says “We don’t use outside contractors, we carry out all of the install and servicing ourselves”.

They are able to look at your property and come up with the best option, and along with houses can also install solar for tiny homes, mobile homes, smaller commercial buildings, and farm buildings such as milking sheds.

Ian mentions that there are different options to look at. These can include going for a full house solar power system or going for a stand-alone solar hot water system.

Hot water can be 50% of a power bill, and Ian says “for people to be able to knock this off is a great saving”.

“We design systems to suit clients needs. We use NIWA data from previous years to predict the weather, and then once  the solar is installed we monitor it, and can make adjustments to maximise the system”.  says Ian.

The system is purchased outright, they are not leased. Most people find that their system will pay for itself within 5-7 years, but reduced power bills, and also the benefits to the environment will take effect immediately.  Industry standard warranties apply to all installations and equipment, and post-installation monitoring and support is free. Only Tier 1 products are used, meaning you are getting the best equipment available.  Sunstream Solar is EECA registered, which Ian says is a requirement for low-interest ‘Green Loans’.

If you are interested in a consultation to see what your best option would be don’t hesitate to get in touch by calling 033123040, 0212215510 or email info@sunstream.co.nz.

ARE YOU UP-TO-DATE?

Immunisation provides both individual protection and community protection from vaccine-preventable diseases.

This makes it a powerful public health measure used all over the world to protect populations from diseases.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccination is estimated to have saved around 20 million lives just between 8 December 2020 and 8 December 2021.

In a non-pandemic year, it still saves millions of lives and prevents people suffering from debilitating disabilities caused by a large range of diseases.

So, it’s important to maintain a good level of immunisation coverage in our communities.

Unfortunately, Aotearoa New Zealand has struggled with low immunisation coverage, which means that we have been unable to prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases.

Herd immunity (also called community immunity) is an important mechanism by which the larger community is protected.

For some diseases, if enough people are immune then transmission of the disease is reduced or eliminated.

This is particularly so for diseases such as rubella and pneumococcal disease.

High vaccine coverage must be maintained in order to prevent the disease re-entering the population.

No vaccine is 100% effective, a small percentage of people are not protected after vaccination and for others the protection may wane over time.

Also, some people are unable to be vaccinated due to certain conditions such as immune suppression.

Maintaining immunity in those around these people protects them from disease.

Oxford Pharmacy is now supporting the goal of increasing immunisations rates, and are available to vaccinate against COVID-19, flu (in season), shingles, as well as providing the national immunisation schedule vaccines such as Boostrix and Gardasil.

These are all funded vaccines*, so there is no charge.

You can either book using Book My Vaccine, or just pop on in and one of our friendly vaccinating pharmacists will be happy to help.

*criteria apply

49B Main Street, Oxford | Phone 312 4314

Monday - Friday 8.30am - 5.30pm

Saturday 9.30am - 12.30pm

from the Presidents Desk

WITH OXFORD CLUB PRESIDENT

Kyle Scott

Hello there,

As I write, firefighters are battling several large-scale blazes in Canterbury, including the Port Hills once again.

We salute these brave men and women who at times put their lives at risk on behalf of our community.

It brings to mind the changing environment we live in, and the commitment of some to maintain our quality of life.

As a vital part of our community, the Oxford Club serves as a hub for social, recreational and cultural activities. The Oxford Club is looking for enthusiastic and dedicated members to stand for our committee elections which will be held on Friday 12th April.

Can you make a positive contribution to the growth and vibrancy of the club?

Why join the Club Committee, you ask?

1. Community Impact: You can make a positive impact by helping shape events, programs and initiatives that bring our Club and Community together.

2. Team Collaboration: Share a common goal –to enhance the overall experience atthe Club

3. Skill Development: Hone your leadership, organisational and communication skills

4.Networking Opportunities: Facilitate to expand your and the Club’s network with the Oxford Community

5.Fulfilment: Be a part of creating memorable experiences for Club members and Guests

The Committee Members contribute to:

• Financial management and policies formation and direction

• Improvements and Innovation

• Event Planning

• Club Promotion and Outreach

We would love you to stand for the Oxford Club Committee and help to shape the future of our Club and local community.

You are welcome to have a chat with me if you have any questions about standing and being part of a focused team on our Executive Committee.

In closing, some of you may have seen the large new macrocarpa Club sign erected by the Club entrance. This new sign replaces the dilapidated sign, which was erected in the mid-1980s, I am told. This new sign certainly stands out and alerts passing traffic and visitors from a considerable distance of the Club’s presence.

Thanks to the Oxford Mens Shed and Ray Charles for their collaboration in the making of this sign – well done. Also, thanks to Peter Mehrtens and Robbie Stevenson for their help in erecting the new sign.

Well, that’s all from me, thank you for reading this article – hope to see you at the Club very soon. Read our email blast for loads of upcoming activities at the Club.

Best regards,

Kyle Scott

President, Oxford Club

Community Trust

Oxford Social Services

SHOPPER’S BUS

12th March - Rangiora $7

26th March - Northlands $10

Book at the Trust or call 03 312 3006

This is a door to door service. Our driver will pick you up, and will take you anywhere in Rangiora you would like to go including Mitre 10. You can leave parcels in the van and continue with your shopping, and then you will be dropped home.

OXBOX Youth Events

Gnome Scavenger Hunt

Friday 8th March - Oxford Scout Den

Woodford Glen Demolition Derby Night

Sunday 23rd March

For bookings contact Nicky on 022 171 8637. Check out OxBox Youth on Facebook for updates.

Thank You!

Thank you to the team at Thea’s Boutique for the funds raised for the Trust. Also to a local farmer who supplies the foodbank with meat, and Louise for the beautiful quilts donated.

Thank you to our fab 4 funders

• Rata Foundation

• COGS

• Lottery Foundation

• Waimakariri District Council

Oxford Community Trust

Responsive to the physical, social, emotional,and financial needs of individuals, families and groups of people within the community of Oxford and Districts.

Te Kura o Te Poho Rakahua Oxford Area School

Takurua is open!

On Friday the 2nd of February the keys to Takurua were handed over and we can officially call Takurua (the new build) ours.

Nau mai haere mai, nau mai hoki mai ki te kura nei.

Welcome, welcome back to school!

We are back!

We have enjoyed having our community - students, whanau, and staff - back into our school.

At the start of term we saw loads of students bouncing through the school gates with excitement, some looking like the 9 am start was way too early, and parents with a hint of smile dropping off their bundles of joy at school for the first time since the 12th of December 2023! It had been a long break with our school opting for a late return to ensure we were able to open the school year in Takurua - Takurua is the brightest star in the Milky Way and also known as Sirius. Yes, it is officially ours, we received the keys on Friday the 2nd of February - right on schedule.

Kaumatua from Ngāi Tūāhuriri came to school last Monday to culturally bless Takurua before public use.

We have enjoyed the process from design to build to furnishing but it wasn't until the building was filled with people that it felt complete.

Once we get through the next few weeks of start-of-the-year busyness we will plan and set a date for the grand opening of Takurua.

In February we welcomed approximately 60 new staff and students, and their whanau, to our kura (school) at our Mihi Whakatau. This included people from Germany, Japan and the Netherlands who have recently joined our school.

Philippe McMurdo (kaiako/teacher of Performing Arts) spoke on behalf of the manuhiri sharing the manaakitangi (hospitality) new staff and students have felt since beginning at Oxford Area School.

Our vision for our learners remains the same:

Kāhui Whetū | Tātai Whetū | Rau Whetū

As a community, we align our learning and skills, showing how extraordinary we are.

Kia pai te rā whakatā, have a nice weekend,

Mike Hart

Tumuaki | Principal

Te Kura o Te Poho Rakahua

Oxford Area School

We want to acknowledge the massive effort by Brosnan Construction and their subcontractors in meeting the set deadline so that we can start the school year in such a modern building.

It has been amazing watching the development over the last year or so, seeing the two-dimensional plans, three-dimensional renders and numerous design meetings come to life in the form of the finished product which now stands proudly as our front-of-house. We look forward to the official opening of Takurua in the near future.

Below - Handing over the keys with Joss Lightfoot – Project Manager Teara Henry – Site Manager

House Day 2024

House Day was filled with laughter, unity, and unforgettable moments for all our students.

We had another fantastic House Day this year, witnessing the students embrace their House colours and showcasing their team spirit with enthusiasm. This was followed by an exciting carnival in the afternoon.

From bouncing on inflatables to getting their faces painted, taking part in a golf challenge, meeting with emergency services, and enjoying a sausage sizzle, our students maximised every available opportunity.

The atmosphere was fantastic, offering something enjoyable for everyone.

Congratulations to Tui House for winning both the chant and best-dressed competitions! Your enthusiasm and creativity were truly outstanding.

Additionally, congratulations to Kereru House for winning the title of Best House Spirit! Your dedication and teamwork shone brightly throughout the day.

A huge thank you to Fun HQ, and to the House Leaders and Staff whose dedication and hard work made this day possible.

It was wonderful that we were fortunate enough to be able to come together as a school community to celebrate House Spirit in such a joyous and memorable way.

Welcome to our new staff member

Ashley Minton

Moving to the area has given me a new opportunity to continue my true calling in life - teaching and learning.

It is a passion I have had for many many years, and I am thrilled to be able to join the Oxford Area School community. My previous role for 22 years was in maths and statistics, and Deaning. Out of school, I like to travel, read, be entertained by my five grandchildren, and grow a few sheep.

Ashley

Homestays required

Leadership Camp

By Rachael Elliott

Oxford Area School kicked off 2024 with familiar faces and newcomers joining forces in the Leadership Camp.

The camp, at Orohaki Lodge, provided the ideal backdrop for collaboration and planning at the base of the Blowhard Track, owned by Riccarton High School.

The team came together to plan for our 2024 House year and engaged in team-building challenges that strengthened bonds and leadership abilities.

On Friday, Mr Thompson, Ms Whitlow, and Mr Hart visited us, joined the team and contributed to the planning sessions.

Also, a special highlight of the camp on Saturday was a visit by Senior Sergeant Anna Lloyd. Her insights into leadership and teamwork, drawn from her experiences in the NZ Police, left a lasting impact on the team.

A special shout-out to the students who attended during their school holidays, showcasing their leadership skills. Their active participation and commitment were crucial in making the camp a success. Looking ahead, the House Leaders are gearing up for an eventful year full of exciting activities and events that will further strengthen the school community.

Homestays required for Oxford Area School International Students.

Oxford Area School is thrilled to welcome a fast-growing number of international students, and we are now looking to expand our community of local homestay families. Hosting international students is an incredibly rewarding experience, and host families play a valuable role in providing the care and support that students need to succeed. Becoming part of your family offers students a unique chance to experience the Aotearoa lifestyle, and develop English competence in a caring family home.

We are looking for suitable homestays for our International Students of 2024, in the township and on the school bus route, and families have the option of hosting students either long or short term (10 weeks to 1 year). There is a generous weekly payment.

We require the home to provide a safe and warm environment, with a welcoming, patient, open-minded, caring, and active family. Students must have their own room, with a quiet place to study. We do our best to match students with families who share similar hobbies, and interests. Police vetting of hosts is mandatory.

If you are interested or have any questions please contact: International Homestay Coordinator . Email: international@oxford.school.nz

Ph: 027 2482177 and leave a message OR

Drop into the school reception and pick up an application form

www.facebook.com/oxfordarea

Leadership Camp

Agriculture is in demand and we need you!

By Sharyn Whitlow

Our Year 11 Agriculture course is a mix of classroom-based theory and hands-on practical, at school, on trips or at "The Woolshed", our own facility for students to have a real farm environment for learning. This course has a well-deserved popularity as it provides great learning and career pathways for our students. In 2024, this has meant that our course has a large number of students which makes the logistics of practical learning off-site a little more challenging. That is where you can help! We are looking for volunteers from our community to assist for a few hours per month so this course continues to provide the practical aspects of learning alongside the theory. Volunteers may be driving a school van to the Woolshed or other local destinations, assisting the teacher at the Woolshed or sharing their knowledge and expertise with our students in a practical environment.

If you are keen to support our school in a practical way and would like more details, please get in contact with our Head of Science, Mr Joseph Burston via email joseph@oxford.school.nz or by phoning the school 03 312 4197. We'd love to hear from you!

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

Out and about in Oxford

Artisan Market & Vintage Car Display

(a collaboration between Oxford Gallery & Oxford Museum)

Ashley Gorge Gala

New Oxford Area School building completed

by Beka Hunt

Oxford Area School’s new Takurua building is complete, and Principal Mike Hart couldn’t be happier. It’s like being in a dream, he says, he does a double-take everytime he walks into the staffroom. Spearheading the school, the new building includes a reception area, three laboratories, staff offices, a hospitality kitchen, multipurpose classrooms and a library.

The building process began in October 2018, with the entirety of 2019 being spent planning. Mr Hart says that the hardest part of the design process was deciding on the interior colours; the leadership team worked alongside Athfield Architects, the Ministry of Education and ARD Project managers, so opinions often differed. It was also incredibly important to the team at OAS to incorporate Māori culture where possible. To do this, they enlisted the help of a Ngāi Tūāhuriri Rūnanga representative, and saw the building blessed at the end of January with karakia and waiata.

In June 2023 the foundations were laid and in February 2024, Oxford Area School officially received the keys. Inside Takurua mixture of exposed red beams, circle windows and repurposed rimu finishes. Carved into the walls is a Purapura Whetu cross pattern, and the night sky glows from beneath a black ceiling in reception. According to the Christchurch City Council, the Purapura Whetu name translates into star seeds, or star dust. This holds incredible significance for the school. In November last year, experts Haritina Mogosanu (Astrobiologist) and Samuel Leske (astrophotographer) discovered that the orientation of the new build lines up perfectly with Sirius, or Takurua - the brightest star in the night sky.

When Mr Hart learnt of this, he knew it was meant to be. Takurua marks the first stage of a three step master plan, and ties in with the previously completed build of Aotahi in 2017, which is named after the Orion constellation. The two can be found in the Te Waka o Tamarereti pattern; an asterism that was once used for navigation in Aotearoa, one that can be seen on the Oxford horizon. In it, Takurua and Aotahi form the stern of the waka.

This stellar connection is only made stronger by the Oxford Observatory, a gateway to the stars that is nestled into the school property. Mr Hart hopes to continue to build on the cultural narrative in stages two and three, creating a strong waka that is anchored in the community.

Mr Hart says that the school is dedicated to including lessons about the night sky in the curriculum, and already does with their involvement with ‘Spaceward Bound New Zealand’- a space education program that travels from school to school. The timing also lines up with the new Dark Sky park being recognised in the Oxford Forest, of which the school will play a large role in maintaining. He hopes that in the meantime, Takurua can be a hub of activity for parents and children, shining in the community like its namesake.

Oxford - Ohoka Community Board update with Thomas Robson

Hi Everyone

The Community Board has been involved in a number of projects and submissions over the last few months, and while there have been very few resolutions to these yet, we can at least congratulate the Dark Sky Committee on achieving a Dark Sky Reserve Accreditation for the Oxford Forrest Conservation Park.

Phone: 312 1360

Mob:021 254 5261

Email: r.j.edwards@xtra.co.nz

We offer:

• airport transfers - early morning/late evening 24/7

• door to door pick up & drop off service

• seating for up to 7 passengers

• the cheapest rates in North Canterbury

We are:

• locally owned & operated

• an ACC Accredited Provider

• NZ Transport Agency Certified

We hope that this accreditation will see an increased awareness of the natural beauty of our area and will encourage visitors to the area. Our submission in opposition to the Woodstock Quarry Landfill Proposal has been heard by the panel of Commissioners and the Commissioners have subsequently requested additional information and environmental monitoring of the site by the applicant, this is due back mid March and then submitters will have a chance to provide feedback on this new information.

The proposed plan change to the District Plan in Ohoka has been rejected by independent Commissioners and subsequently the Council, unfortunately the applicant has since chosen to appeal this decision to the Environment Court. At our February Meeting the Community Board voted to oppose this appeal in the Environment Court, and will continue to advocate on behalf of the Community as this progresses through the Court.

Both of these proposals have received overwhelming opposition from local residents and the process of submitting has been very time consuming and upsetting for the Community, and while it is important to support local progress, it would be nice to see developers work with the Community to find mutually acceptable solutions rather than seeking to litigate their way to a resolution.

On a positive note Council recently asked for Community feed back on the Oxford Dog Exercise area proposed for behind the Oaks Reserve, something that the Board has been advocating on for a long time.

We will be receiving a report at an upcoming meeting with the final design as shaped by Community feedback. It was also a pleasure to attend the Ashley Gorge Reserve Gala Day to see the great work that has been carried out by the Reserve Advisory Board.

This was well attended with the Noddy train being an obvious hit with the littlies, and the bush walks and Reynolds Pavilion on display. This Reserve is a great asset for the Community or as our Mayor stated – “The jewel in the crown of the District”.

To keep up to date with what is happening on the Community Board, follow our facebook page – Oxford-Ohoka Community Board.

Regards

Thomas Robson

Chair Oxford Ohoka

New Principal for View Hill School

View Hill School have started 2024 with a new Principal at the helm. Pax O’Dowd has made the move to View Hill School from St Patricks in Kaiapoi where was in the role of Deputy Principal for the last 3 years.

After meeting the staff and Board, he says “I just got a great feel for the school” and he is excited for the opportunity to lead what he describes as a ‘cool wee country school’.

This year the School is implementing a new Strategic Plan, and while still in his last role Pax started work with the team on this. He says that there are two big features in this plan. The first is the development of the school’s cultural narrative. This includes understanding the history and the ancestors of the land, including mana whenua, and multi-generational farmers in the area.

The focus is on understanding history, and what it means to be in View Hill. With their 150th Jubilee coming up in 2026, Pax says “it is a good time to reflect on the School’s past, and then look forward to the future.”

The other main focus of the strategic plan is development of a new curriculum. This is something that all schools across the country are working on. While looking at what they do well, they can then find the areas that need changing or tweaking to take the school to the next level.

Pax is keen to work with the wider community, and tap into the expertise, strengths and passions in the community, and to help put the School on the map.

View Hill School has a current roll of 65 students, which is expected to rise to 70 over the year.

Pax, his wife Tessa and their four children are based in North Canterbury, living near Rangiora.

POLICE update with Mitch

Alatalo

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Well the kids have been at school a month already, and time keeps moving. Before we know it, it will be Easter and the kids will be back on school holidays again. Road safety is a big part of Policing, and it is everyone’s responsibility.

So, slow down. It is not a race. Stop does mean stop, and if you are enjoying a few drinks after work at a mates or the pub, be responsible. It’s not just your life that could be changed.

It’s great to see and hear all the chatter on Facebook letting our community know who and what to keep an eye out for, and that it is getting reported through the right channels as well. But just a reminder for those who don’t know how to report; in an emergency, 111, if it has already happened, 105 via the phone or the internet.

The rural outlook App is a great way to report as well and if you don’t want to be known but feel we need to know, Crimestoppers is also a great way of reporting.

One last thing, with the Roar fast approaching there have been increased reports of both hunting and poaching in the area. Be safe out there and please identify your target. We all want to get back safe and sound to our loved ones. You never know who you might meet out there.

Thank you for your time, until next month, Be safe. Feel safe.

ST JOHN update with Mel Brooker

Another month has sped by and the Oxford FRU has had a few outings, including the Oxford Area School’s house day, where we able to show groups through the Ambulance, explain a little about what we do, and how the youth are very welcome to join us in our youth division. I was able to complete a number of blood pressures tests for some of our tamariki, which I hope will put them at ease if they are ever requiring a blood pressure in the future, in the case of an emergency.

We had a great day out at the Wheels with Wings. It is always nice to be able to attend events like this and spend time with people in pleasant circumstances. What a fantastic day it was, the venue was stunning, the cars and planes present were absolute treasures.

Later this month we have the Oxford A&P Show which is a day we all enjoy. Seeing the town and country meet at this event is always great. Come and say hello at the Show, we always love to catch up with new and old friends.

Again we are struggling to find some people’s addresses in the district. It is soul destroying when we have a time critical patient we can’t find because the house isn’t well identified with a clear number. Please check yours is visible and correct. The ambulance station at Oxford is not manned 24 hours a day.

If you require emergency assistance please call 111.

FIRE RESCUE update with

Trevor Ealam

It was a busy start to the year with thirteen calls. We were asked to assist the Cust Brigade three times. Two were vegetation fires threatening structures. Unfortunately one shed and it's contents were destroyed. We also attended one un-permitted rubbish fire.

The Brigade also assisted the Rangiora Brigade at the big Loburn fire where three dwellings were destroyed. In our area we attended three vegetation fires one which was a gorse fire which got into a dry grass paddock. The fire was caused by a mechanical failure on a combine harvester travelling along the road.

I would like to thank Oxford AG (Steve Macauley) and Glen Trayner for their assistance at the fire. There were three rubbish fires, two were re- ignitions from previous burns, and one un-permitted fire, one private smoke alarm activation which was a false alarm, one car fire, and one to assist a person on a bush track that had injured their ankle.

This months message is; It has got very dry out there, so be extremely careful with any machinery that could cause a spark, have water handy if you going to be welding, grinding, drilling etc outside, fire will get away very quickly.

Also at the time of writing we are in a prohibited fire season. If you are unsure go on the internet and checkitsalright.