The Oxford Observer May 2019 by oxfordobserver

the Oxford

MAY 2019

Observer Issue 88

Our Community Magazine

Horses of the

Fjord

Happenings at

Schnur

rt rba

Design &

Publis

Roddy Kidd

hin

Catchup with local Artist

Oxford Area School

the Oxford

Observer

May 2019

Welcome to the May issue of the Oxford Observer. We think this every month, but how on earth are we already in May. The year is absolutely flying by! Congratulations to the winners of our giveaways last month. Anita Stubbs and Amanda Shaskey both won double passes to the Hororata Night Glow, and Annette Sunderland was the winner of ‘A Dream of Italy’ by Nicky Pellegrino. Thank you to the Hororata Community Trust and Emma’s at Oxford for these prizes. This month we have a copy of ‘The Cat from Muzzle’, and a $30.00 book voucher from Emma’s at Oxford to give away. If you would like to be in with a chance to win either of these, email us at emily@oxfordobserver.co.nz. We hope you enjoy this month’s issue. We have some great articles for you. There are some amazing people in our community, and it is always a pleasure to meet people and see what they are doing. If there is something you would like to see us do an article on, feel free to get in touch with us and we can have a look at it. Have a great month! Bruce & Emily Chapman

MAY BOOK REVIEWS Sponsored by Emma’s At Oxford

The Strawberry Thief

The Cat from Muzzle

Mystery Book

This is the fourth book in the Chocolat series. We return to Lansquenet-sousTannes, where Vianne Rocher has settled down and become an accepted part of the very conservative community. Her daughter Rosette is bequeathed some land, by the local florist Narcisse and there is a mystery about this land, waiting to be solved. A new shop opens up in place of the florist, and with it a threat of menace enters Vianne’s life. She will do whatever she can to make sure that it doesn’t affect her, or those she loves.As always with Joanne Harris there are the aspects of magical realism, and beauty along with underlying darkness. I have loved all of this series and was so excited to read The Strawberry Thief and it does not disappoint.

Dwayne the cat has been taken off a high country farm called Muzzle, to live in Kaikoura and he is not happy about it! So he decides the only thing for him to do, is to make his way home. Based on a real cat called Dwayne who actually made this journey in 5 weeks, this book is such a delightful story with beautiful illustrations by Scott Tulloch.

The main plot line is an interesting concept based around a solution to how expensive it is to live in a big city, but putting that aside, you will TOTALLy fall in love with the main characters, who will restore your faith in people.You may very well guess the plot, but it doesn’t matter. You simply do not want to stop reading it, just to see how it all unfolds.

We have a copy of this book to give away so contact us on emily@oxfordobserver.co.nz if you would like to be in to win.

And when it finishes in the most perfectly wonderful, and for a lot of books, unusually rounded out way, it makes you hug the book with a big smile on your face, and then want to immediately go and share it with your girlfriends. Emma

by Joanne Harris

by Sally Sutton

Number 5

Call us TODAY

Craig ~ 027 489 5359 lia@cbco.nz Lia ~ 027 450 8496 www.cbco.nz

In the Studio with Oxford Artist

Roddy Kidd Words & Photos by Shaz Davis

Local artist, Roddy Kidd, is best known for his murals at the Oxford Museum, weekly cartoons for the Oxford Workingmen’s Club, and his oil paintings on hardboard with a shearing theme, which are now part of a private collection purchased by John Manual. They were recently loaned for display at the Oxford Art Gallery. Roddy moved to Oxford in 1965, when he took on a role selling motor spares in Rangiora, and jokes that he’s been here almost long enough to be a local. A self-confessed jack-of-all-trades, he has also worked as a teacher aide, fencing contractor, and spent 18 years shearing sheep in the backcountry. Although he trained as a signwriter, via correspondence, back in about 1969, Roddy has had no art training. He started painting somewhere between 20 to 30 years ago. “I’m a Sunday dabbler, like most artists in New Zealand. I just like art. It’s in ya. You’ve either got it, or you haven’t,” he says. Roddy mostly works with oils on hardboard. Hardboard because it is cheaper and oils because “if you make a mistake you can scrape it off and start again,” he explains with a smile and a joke about some Scottish ancestry. He tried his first landscape on canvas recently and found the absorbent surface used a lot more paint.“I like to paint old things – vintage things, derelict buildings, gnarly trees... and I did a series of vintage motorbikes that sold well,” but Roddy says his eyesight and hands are not good enough for that sort of fine, detailed work anymore. At 82 Roddy considers himself a mediocre artist and is always striving to get better. He likes to pop into art galleries to look at other work and learn. “Painting is a very complex world. I’m not a good colour person – my skies are blue and my clouds are white,” he says. He’s currently “resurrecting” an earlier painting that he feels can be improved, and is making large ANZAC poppies out of metal as garden ornaments. Caption: Roddy Kidd with two of his paintings, one in cartoon style and the other a Queenstown landscape which was his first canvas painting.

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0 0 1

Cup presented for the

time

Words by Jackie Kirk - photo supplied

David and Kay Taylor with Bella and Finlay Graham

If objects could talk the P H Thompson Cup would have some interesting tales to tell. First awarded at the Oxford A and P Show in 1919, for the most points in the flower section, the cup has just celebrated its 100th year of presentation. Cup benefactor Percival Horace Thompson, whose wife Christina was a keen gardener, was born at Saltwater Creek in 1869. His father, Charles Able Thompson was born in London in 1847. At the age of thirteen Charles, two siblings and their parents emigrated to Australia. Three years later Charles and his siblings emigrated to New Zealand to begin new lives. Charles married Sophia Matilda Lough and established a store in Oxford where he conducted business for twenty years. Percival Horace worked in his father’s store until taking up farming when he was sixteen years old. In 1893 Percival married Christina Hunter, the daughter of an Oxford storekeeper and they had four children. As a member of the Oxford Road Board and the Lodge of Oddfellows at East Oxford, Percival took an interest in community affairs. He must have surely experienced a sense of civic pride when the P H Thompson Cup was presented for the first time in 1919. Fast forward 100 years and to mark the cup’s anniversary this year, a miniature replica has been made. Winners of the 2019 cup, David and Kay Taylor, get to keep the miniature cup and have possession of the P H Thompson Cup until next year. This is not the first time that they have won the cup. David Taylor says they first won it in 1994 and have won it half a dozen times since then. This year they won 5 trophies, including the Premier Champion, with a Royal Philharmonic Rose. Sarah Baxter, the first winner of the cup in 1919 was the grandmother of Valmai Thompson, whose great-grandchildren presented the cup to its present winners. Valmai and her mother were both winners of the cup in previous years. It is fitting that a four generational link between the 1919 presentation, and the 2019 presentation of the cup coincides with the 100 years anniversary of an Oxford tradition.

MAIN DIVIDE OUR TEAM IN COLOUR After starting out as a shepherd at a high country station, Rio made quite a drastic change to hairdressing. Although, with her mum and aunty in the industry as well, it probably isn’t a surprise to those who know her. Rio grew up in Oxford and has been around hairdressing all of her life, and used to love to help her mother in her salon when she was young. Rio has been working at Main Divide Hair Lounge for around three years and she is almost ﬁnished her apprenticeship to be a qualiﬁed hairdresser. For Rio it was important to have a career where she could progress and constantly be learning. Rio says she loves the social aspect of her job, and loves working with all of her clients. She says that Main Divide has a cool vibe, and they all get along so well, it makes it like a family. Rio enjoys all aspects of her job, and the opportunity to be creative is a highlight for her. When asked what she likes the most about the job she says “I love making people feel beautiful” Rio is available for all your haircutting and colouring needs, contact details below.

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Developing skills for Success

Words by Emily Chapman - photos by Bruce Chapman

Community College North Canterbury’s Equine course provides a different kind of education altogether. The course provides practical learning in a small class setting with no more than 15 students. This means that everyone on the course can work at their own level, and they not only get the educational support they need, but the personal support as well, if they are struggling in other areas. Attending the College is not like high school, the course is run as much like a work place as possible. The students are responsible for the running of the yards, with their Tutor Pippa Newby, (photographed above) overseeing them. A typical day involves being on the yard at 9am, grooming and checking the horses, mucking out, maintenance, exercising and feeding. The students learn quickly to be able to work in a team, to make sure everything gets done. They are taught to take pride in what they are doing, and to care for their surroundings, and the horses. As well as onsite practical and classroom work, the students are taken on industry visits to show them the scope of opportunities there are to work in the Equine field. They visit a range of stables, race tracks, saddleries and feed producers, to see what is involved and what options there are for them. Pippa says “It is not just about the actual course, but about learning skills and showing them that learning can be a positive experience”. Some of the students that come on the course have struggled with mainstream education, and need a different approach to help them achieve. To do the Equine Skills Level 2 Course that starts in February you don’t need any experience with horses. However, the Level 3 Course, starting in June, requires some riding experience. Students can gain both of these equine qualifications and students needing NCEA, graduate with credits towards levels 1- 3, if required NCEA Literacy and Numeracy credits can be completed. Pippa is in her 4th year teaching at the college and says she loves to be able to provide a relaxing learning environment for the students. She says “It is all about the students, totally relationship based”, and finds that students often want to come back and visit once they have graduated. One of the students Abby says that she is really happy in the course. She says “It is chill. I don’t feel under pressure and rushed into things, and I get the support I need”.

The course is free for 16-19 year olds, including all course requirements. The Level 3 course is open to all ages and meets the eligibility for student loans and Fees free where applicable. If you would like more information check out the advertisement on page 7, or: Faye on 03 313 5874, or info.nc@comcol.ac.nz.

TURN EQUINE YOUR FREE PASSION EQUINE COURSES 16-19YRS FOR HORSES INTO A CAREER

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Dan Gordon to run for Mayor of

Waimakariri District

Four term Councillor, Dan Gordon, is standing for election as Mayor of the Waimakariri District Council. The 43-year old lives in Loburn and is one of four Councillors representing the Rangiora-Ashley Ward. “I am proud to have spent the past 15 years as part of a progressive council working hard with our communities to make Waimakariri a great place to live and work,” says Dan Gordon. “When David Ayers announced he was stepping down as Mayor at this year’s election, many people approached me to ask if I would run for Mayor. I thought long and hard about putting my name forward, and after talking to my family and close friends I have decided that I will stand. “Our district has got a lot going for it. David Ayers has done an excellent job as Mayor. We have an outstanding Chief Executive, great staff and a group of Councillors who have supported each other, to make the best decisions for our district, through some very tough times. “In the time I’ve been a Councillor our district has seen substantial growth, and has responded to the challenges of both the earthquake repairs and planning for future growth. “Over the next 10 years our population will grow from 60,000 to around 75,000. That is a 20 percent population increase. We need an experienced and energetic leader, who can manage that growth and guide our district’s continuing prosperity. “My energy, extensive knowledge, and involvement in many community organisations, combined with my wide-ranging Council experience, equip me well for the Mayoralty,” Dan Gordon says. “Our annual plan is currently out for consultation, giving our communities the opportunity to contribute to decision-making, and shape the Council’s priorities for our district. It’s important to me that we have empowered communities, and if elected Mayor I will hold regular community clinics to listen to people’s concerns, and receive feedback on Council progress.

“Major proposals for community input right now, include looking at how we implement the Waimakariri water zone plan addendum (ZIPA), funding ultraviolet treatment of water supplies, developing tennis courts in Rangiora in partnership with local clubs, and investigating the provision of ‘park and ride’ facilities. “We have made significant progress on some really big projects - the multi-sport stadium planning is underway, our earthquake repairs are completed ,and Kaiapoi’s regeneration is on track and budgeted for. “If these initiatives are to stay on track we need solid leadership that will help us maintain an equitable balance between meeting the needs of a rapidly growing district and keeping rate increases to a minimum. I am hardworking and have strong working relationships with council staff and Councillors, which will ensure a harmonious transition to a new Mayor. “I have a proven track record of working closely with our communities to get things done. I was involved with the establishment of the Oxford Art Gallery and was chair from inception until June 2017. I am Chairman of the friends of the Rangiora Town Hall, a board member of Rangiora Promotions and Patron of North Canterbury Musical Society. I also helped establish the successful Kaiapoi Art Expo, which I have chaired since its establishment 14 years ago. It would be a privilege to serve the people of Waimakariri as their Mayor,” says Dan Gordon. earted warm h es of erful & ti A wond bout the reali mily read a arming & Fa life, F

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Black Beech MAY PROMOTIONS

wednesday - BUILD YOUR OWN PIZZA Choose any combination plus any 330ml Beer for $32

thursday - Ladies Night

Complimentary breads Platter or Pizza bread with any Bottle of wine purchased

FRIDAY -

5-7pm

Any Gourmet Pizza $20 Any 330ml Craft Beer $7 Any 150ml white wine $7 Red $9.50

saturday Any Beer

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all for

Pot of Fries

$35

SUnday

Any Gourmet Pizza $20 DELUXE $23

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MOTHERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DAY

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If any community clubs, groups or organisations would like to use Black Beech as a venue, it's free and we'd be more than happy to help! Just give us a call or email....blackbeechbar@gmail.com 312 3338

Monday & TUESDAY closed wednesday & thursday 4pm - 8pm friday & saturday 4pm - 10pm sunday 4pm - 8pm

5 years ago Fran set up her own business OSewInspiring. The name came from some of the first clients that she worked with, who had cancer, or had had transplants and/or who were still receiving chemotherapy. She would work to make them their dream wedding dress, adapting them to fit their medical equipment. She says it was all about making them feel special and she found them “oh so inspiring”, and her business was born. Fran is able to make your dream bridal gown, from a picture, or from multiple ideas, bringing them together. She is able to advise you on what is possible, and also what would work best for your body shape.Online purchases from China are very common for brides, and unfortunately sometimes these just don’t work when they arrive. A lot of ‘european style’ dresses are just made for static display, and for photo sessions so they are generally too long. Even with sending measurements it is an inaccurate process so she has people coming to her with dresses that are either too big or too small. Fran is able to come up with creative solutions to make the dress exactly what you want. For one customer she was able to open up the zip area, and add a corset with lacing to give a beautiful finish to her dress. She is able to design and make any clothing you require. She recently was commissioned to make a Steam Punk outfit for a festival in Oamaru. Fran says she has never missed a deadline, and has always found a solution for every situation she has worked with.

An Inspiring Career Words by Emily Chapman - photos by Bruce Chapman

Fran Gardner, owner of OSewInspiring, learnt to sew from both her grandmothers at an early age, and has never looked back. At high school she would make costumes for the productions and in fact went on to do 21 musicals, including a stint at being head of wardrobe for the North Canterbury Musical Society. Over her career she has done a wide variety of sewing, including 21 years making curtains and blinds, and work uniforms and on the other side of things in drycleaning. She has always been involved in creative projects, including a Mrs Potts from Beauty and the Beast costume for Weta Workshops, and also designing clothes and dressing fibreglass mannequins for Ballantynes, and Kilcardie and Staines in Wellington. Fran says that she enjoys the problem solving aspect of sewing. She once had the job of making a life size zebra costume for the circus. It had two people inside it, which she said was very challenging getting it to work and move well.

If you would like to contact Fran for your wedding or sewing needs, please see the ad below.

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Local Pinot Gris Producers

Strive for excellence Words & photo by Cathy Dee

A vision of learning something new, while having fun, led to husband and wife team Kerry and Gillian Walsh, moving from a small residential section in Merivale, to a 2.5 acre plot in Springbank. After deciding that winemaking would be the new, fun thing to do, ‘it took quite some time to find the exact right site with the correct ground structure and environment’. Pinot Gris vines were planted in 2005 with the infrastructure: posts, wires and irrigation installed in 2006. The first batch of wine was produced in 2012. Kerry says they have had four vintages since then. Not a high number due to battles with frosts, birds and disease.  Despite this they managed to win bronze medals at the prestigious Canterbury Wine Awards in both 2013 and 2015 – no mean feat for a new vineyard up against big name established vineyards. The vineyard is run using sustainable practices. The wine is handcrafted, as they manage the vineyard themselves and carry out all work, including harvesting by hand. One of the smallest producing vineyards in NZ and one of only a handful of vineyards in the Waimakariri district, Blackhouse prefers to concentrate on quality rather than quantity. “The Blackhouse Pinot Gris is made in the vineyard, not the winery, and every year is different so the taste varies accordingly. In my mind a wine that tastes the same each year should be a wine avoided, as it is created in a factory, to a standard. If you want to taste the terroir of the land - of Springbank, try our Pinot Gris. Our aim right from the start was to produce the very best Pinot Gris and we are getting close!” The one hectare plantation produces around 1600 bottles of top quality wine in a good year, and a good year means no spring frosts, a dry summer with warm days and cool nights. Keeping on top of disease and birds is also vital.

OPEN DAY

AT THE GORGE NURSERY Sale Trees still available

10-5 0 ofF %

A large variety of trees including Maples, Oaks, Crabapples, Plane trees, Ash, Liquidambar, Hornbeams Dogwoods, Flowering Cherries……….. And many more

Sunday 12th May 10am-4pm

The Gorge Nursery 479 Ashley Gorge Road, Oxford

Phone 027 283 7279 | www.thegorgenursery.co.nz

Gillian and Kerry with Vino who as chief Bird Scarer is an integral part of the team When I enquire if there have been any surprises about the boutique vineyard business, Kerry said that he was surprised by just how difficult it is to produce a top-quality Pinot Gris. With no previous experience or qualifications in the wine making business, Kerry discloses that it has been a steep learning curve but that he was lucky to receive some very good advice along the way. He remarks that birds were our biggest problem. “When we first covered our grapes in 2012 with single row nets, the birds hit us with a vengeance and the year after, they told all of their friends to come for a feast as well. We soon realised that the birds were pecking the grapes through the sides of the nets so we had to make a change to large overrow nets where there is more draping and less sides. I think I can remember in 2013, all 3 powerline wires being full of blackbirds sitting shoulder to shoulder! We then had the help of a good friend Mike Snook, who owned a large vineyard in Tram Road. He helped us with advice re bird control and assisted us with some heavier machinery to install the nets. Mike was also a great source of knowledge on all things vineyard. Unfortunately, Mike passed away quite suddenly in 2016. I then built my own net machine based on Mike’s design which worked a treat for the first time last year”. Unfortunately, 2019 has not been a great year so they won’t be cropping this year. “A wet spring did not allow good fruit set and the humidity allowed disease to spready rapidly in the vineyard. We have chosen tonot net (for the first time) as we don’t believe we should ever harvest anything less than a top-quality crop”. Short term, Kerry and Gillian are hoping to get their 2018 Blackhouse Pinot Gris out to the market, the long-term goal being to keep producing (weather permitting) their top-quality Pinot Gris.

You can purchase Blackhouse Pinot Gris from their website www.blackhouse.co.nz

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Keeping Kunekune Pigs Words & photos by Cathy Dee

There’s no doubt about it, there are few things cuter than a piglet. But here’s the thing; piglets grow into pigs, and pigs are big no matter what they are advertised as.Although smaller than the average commercial pig, who can weigh in around 400+ kilos, Kunekune pigs will grow to be anywhere from 60kg to 200kg at which point, for many, they stop being quite so cute, so if you are looking at adding some of these wonderful animals to your lifestyle block, here are some things to consider. Fencing   Pigs are extremely strong and resourceful, and are very capable of going through, or under, most fences so serious fencing consideration is a must. Pig experts will tell you that you will need to have hot wires on the inside of your fences 30cm off the ground. Health If your pig stops eating or drinking, is lethargic or has a fever, get the vet. Pneumonia and leptospirosis are two common diseases, and although both can be fatal, with prompt veterinarian intervention, they are treatable. Your pig should be vaccinated for leptospirosis every 6 months as it is an infectious disease.  Neutering or spaying your pig is a good idea to prevent him becoming the neighbourhood Lothario and her from seeking out a mate General Upkeep As pigs don’t have sweat glands to cool themselves down in the summer heat, shade, preferably under trees, is a must, and the addition of a mud wallow, or pool enables them to cool down. A layer of mud also helps to keep bitey insects at bay. Housing should be roomy and dry, with a layer of sawdust or shavings for bedding.

Lifesthte yler with C

athy D

The lifespan of a pig can be up to 25 years. They are extremely intelligent, inquisitive and, as social animals, they love to be involved in everything. Make no mistake about the intelligence of a pig. They will have you trained before you even think about training them. They quickly work out that squealing loudly brings you running out with a treat for them, so be mindful about what behaviour you reward! They should never be kept on their own or in a confined space. Room to run about and explore with his herd is a must for any pig. When the pig is a piglet, gently get them used to having their hooves, mouth and face touched and held. This will pay off when they are large and need their hooves trimmed or eyes wiped etc. Kunekune’s are one of the few pigs who can live on grass alone, if there is enough of it. However if they start to lose weight, they will need supplementation, which can be household scraps with a commercial pig feed added.Remember that pigs have emotions and feelings like we do. They can develop strong bonds with their owner or other animals. Like all animals we choose to keep, they deserve to be treated with love and respect.

Confident Driving Courses for the Mature Driver We change physically and mentally as we age, and this can affect our driving ability. A Confident Driving Course will help you learn what you can do to make sure you stay safe on the roads. Book now for a fun and interactive day. Oxford Town Hall - Monday 27 May • Free classroom based programme • No tests or exams on the course • Lunch available - $10 contribution The course will run from 9.30am until 2.45pm. To book or find out more, contact Age Concern Canterbury on 366 0903.

•

2171 Clintons Road www.theoaksofdarﬁeld.co.nz

OXFORD CLUB

160 High Street Oxford | Phone 312 4411 | www.oxfordclub.co.nz

EST - 1887

Members, Guests and Aﬃliates welcome

CLUB HOURS BAR & BOTTLESTORE Open from 11am every day

Look it’s Ethel & Bethel

TAKEAWAYS

~ Bingo Babes ~

ets

Fri - Sat - Sun from 5:30pm

OXFORD CLUB EST - 1887

coming to the club for a cuppa, bingo and a bucketload of fun!

k Tic

OSCAR’S

Sun - Thu 5:30pm - 8:00pm Fri & Sat 5:30 - 9:00pm

0 $l2able naorw.

i b ava t the a

Saturday, 8th June.

Ethel and Bethel BINGO BABES

S atur d

What’s On at Oxford Club

Raﬄes

Ha󹀄󵁹 Hour

every Monday & Wednesday

Auﬆin Powers & 󹁦e Legends Show

Saturday, 8th June

Ethel & Bethel Bingo Babes Tickets $20 at bar

* Check out our Events Calendar on our website to keep up to date *

BECOME A MEMBER ~

vail at th able e Bar

Dont Miss out

Coming Soon

Lu󹁜󵁹 Member D󹀚r Draw

Sunday, 5th May – OAS Bingo

ts $ 2 0 A

Exiting New Menu

every Wednesday & Saturday

Tickets $20 at bar

4th M a y

T ick

Great Dancing Music all Night

every Wednesday, Friday & Saturday from 6pm

Saturday, 4th May

8PM ay

We are super excited to announce that a new menu will be coming to Oscar’s in a few weeks. So watch our Facebook page for details.

Some favourites will still be there but we have lots of tasty new seasonal dishes to share with you.

LIKE us on Facebook

as we have an exciting year of entertainment planned

The OXFORD CLUB ~ YOUR SOCIAL HUB

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

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

Horses of the Fjord Words & photos by Cathy Dee

Considered one of the oldest pure breeds of horses, the Norwegian Fjord horse is closely related to the extinct European ‘wild’ horse, the Tarpan. First domesticated by the Vikings around 1200BC, like the Mongols with their tough little horses, they were used as war mounts, for travel and also for meat. In their voyages with the Vikings, these little horses left their legacy in breeds such as Icelandic, Highland and even Welsh ponies. One of the first things people notice is the roached mane. As war horses, the cutting of the mane was thought to make the horses look bigger and more impressive. Also, a long thick mane could get tangled in reins, swords, bows and spears. Today however, the mane is kept cut as a cultural nod to appearance. The Fjord horse has the longest history of pure breeding’s of any horse - Arabs have been carefully bred for generations. However recent evidence discovered while excavating Viking burial sites point to over 2000 years of selective breeding! In 1998, Gabrielle Mathiesen of Fjord Horse NZ introduced two in-foal mares with different bloodlines. These were the start of her successful North Canterbury stud. Gabrielle had lived in Norway for 8 years while working as a hair dresser on Norwegian cruise ships. Having fostered a love for the Fjord horse from a young age, being able to introduce them to New Zealand was a real thrill. There are still not many of them

Need a Pre-school ?

in New Zealand though they are rapidly gaining popularity. The combination of surefootedness, smooth paces at trot and canter, and their gentle nature make them ideal for those returning to, or new to, riding. Bred for strength, they are easily able to carry the weight of an average sized adult rider, despite the fact they are only around 13.2- 14.2hh. Gabrielle is adamant that she will not cross these horses over other breeds, preferring to keep the bloodlines pure. Evolving in the harsh climes of Norway, they are extremely ‘good doers’. Gabrielle recommends keeping them on a track system with hay, salt and minerals. Of course, like all horses, they should be kept in a herd environment which encourages all important movement as well as allowing the horses to feel safe. “Health-wise”, Gabrielle says, “they are an extremely low maintenance horse”. Pictures show a recent addition to the herd – a little colt, along with another 6-month-old colt who has been sold, and her stallion with one of the mares. MASON’S

DRAPERY

er ’s h t o M

Day

L A I C E

29 April -11th May

10% off

all Ladies New Seasons Fashion

2 McMillan Street, Darfield Phone: 03 318 8734 HOURS : Monday ~ Friday 9am ~ 5pm & Saturday 9.30am ~12.30

Oxford Early Learning Centre Monday to Friday 8.30am - 3.30pm

4Nursery for 6 months onwards 4Interactive area for 2-3 year olds 4School readiness classroom for 4-6 year olds 4Great teacher/child ratios with passionate staff 4Community focused team supporting our families/whanau for over 29 years

166 High Street | Ph: 03 312 4757 (Behind Baptist Church)

oxfordearlylearning@xtra.co.nz

HORSE RIDING

• Lessons and trekking

Oxford Butchery

• Over 80 well-schooled horses available or BYO

Farm Fresh Flavour

• Preparation for certificates

Fresh to your Plate

• Dressage, Show Jumping & Cross Country

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

• Weekend courses • School holiday courses • Full livery service available

Bookings essential

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

Oxford Butchery Ltd 4th Generation Family Butchers

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

44 Main Street - Oxford

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

Jeska King

Property Management M 027 643 2358 P 03 313 8022 jeska@pb.co.nz

Why do we need a healthy homes legislation? No one should have to live in a home that makes them sick. Living in a dry and warm environment is good for everyone, but for people with a respiratory condition it is vital for them to stay well. Many houses are damp and cold, leading to more colds, flus and a build-up of harmful pathogens in the home such as mould that triggers asthma.

PROVIDING INTEGRATED VETERINARY SERVICES

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

Bach Flower Remedies and Homeopathy

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

LillianBonnerDVM@gmail.com

Lillian Bonner DVM Balanced Beings Integrated & Functional Veterinary Medicine

Di Moreira Putting Oxford First, Local Knowledge, Proven Skill, Sales Results. Call Di today. Di Moreira | M 027 848 8020 | E di@pb.co.nz

Not only are damp homes bad for our health but damp homes make heating more difficult and expensive especially in the colder months. While the Healthy Homes Guarantees Act targets rental properties and landlords, it should be a reminder to all that our homes should be maintained to a high standard to ensure that we live in a healthy environment. Some useful tips tenants can do to help keep the moisture out: •

Put lids on pots when cooking

•

Dry clothes outside

•

Air your house on fine days

•

Air clothes, shoes and wardrobes regularly

•

Use extractor fans or open windows in the kitchen and bathroom to remove moisture

•

Remove mould or mildew from walls, shower curtains, etc. with a fungicide e.g. very diluted household bleach.

•

Have well-fitting curtains and pull them at night to keep heat in

•

Use draught stops under doors and draught proofing strips around windows and doors

Landlords we can help organise a free home assessment so you can be sure you are doing your part in achieving a warmer, drier and healthier home.

“We were lucky to have Di as our sale consultant for selling our home. Di’s knowledge of trends, past sales and the Oxford area was paramount to the successful selling of our house. Di was great with communicating throughout the process. We thoroughly enjoyed working with her and would highly recommend her to sell your house.”

For a free friendly chat call me today.

Kate and Marcus Cooper

SOLD

Hastings McLeod Ltd Licensed REAA 2008

Principal / Tumuaki update by Mike Hart Tena koutou, talofa, mālō e lelei, ni sa bula, nǐ hǎo, konnichiwa, guten tag, bon jour, kamusta, asalaam alaikum and greetings, A reflection of a term’s worth of learning unearths just how much a school achieves over a 10 week period of time. We have seen students in swimming lessons and competitions, athletics competitions, duathlons, try-athlons, sports spectacular, bee farm visit, museum visit, Living Springs camp, Hanmer Springs camp, Surf school, sheep and beef farm visit, chicken farm vist, Mt Thomas Rite Journey Challenge, Life Education, support of the Oxford A&P Show, House Day, PALs training, goal setting conferences, the annual Canterbury Area School’s Festival, play-based learning, project-based learning. All of these experiences are on top of what you gain day to day in the classroom. This year we are moving away from the six monthly reporting cycle to ensure parents and students are receiving timely and informative feedback/feedforward. We are achieving this through the use of the Educa App where learning journeys are shared which include multimedia (images and video) with a focus on the learning process and outcomes. This term alone our teachers have written over 2,300 learning entries and almost all of our student’s parents have signed up and are receiving notifications of new learning posts. The end of Term 1 marks a number of farewells at Oxford Area School. We farewell Katie Legg (Science and Agriculture) who takes maternity leave for the year and we wish her best of luck as she prepares for the new addition to her family. Lynley McDougall (Accommodation Coordinator) who worked with our International students and their homestays. Finally, Heather McLachlan who has worked at Oxford Area School for the last 25 years, most recently as Secretary. We will miss Heather’s extensive knowledge of Oxford Area School and a wealth of experience. We wish Heather all the best for the future as she enjoys retirement, and time in her garden! During Term 2 we are focusing particularly on the value of being respectful or kia whakaute. This is to show regard for people’s feelings, wishes and rights. Part of being respectful is to find and acknowledge the goodness in ourselves and others. To find the goodness we need to look out for it. Hunt the good stuff. “Hunting the good stuff” programme was originally adopted by the US Army for resilience training. “Hunting the Good Stuff” helps us to notice and analyse what is good around us. The challenge is at the end of each day to identify three good things that happened. Then think about why this good thing happened and what it means to you. We are unique and have our own personal strengths. Know your strengths and the things you enjoy, and this will improve your happiness. “Kei tēnā, kei tēnā, kei tēnā ano. Tōnā ake a hua, Tōnā ake mauri, Tōnā ake mana. Each and every one has their own uniqueness, life essence and presence.” Embrace your uniqueness. Nga mihi nui

Board of Trustees update (by Matt Riley)

Kia ora koutou katoa Gee Whiz where has the first term for 2019 gone! Within a short period of time Oxford Area School staff and students have been very busy cramming in great life learning skills and personal progressive achievements. As a Board we meet monthly to make strategic decisions, discussions and monitor our strategic aims within our school vision. All of the fantastic learning opportunities mentioned in our newsletters give our students the opportunity to increase leadership skills, set and achieve goals, be proud to achieve and see our learners participate and contribute, which is exactly what our strategic aims for the school is designed to do. The three Strategic Aims are; *Grow Together – (Thriving Connected Communities) - Our school has integral relationships with family, school, community, and the world. We will nurture meaningful connections that ensure we all flourish. The community is at the heart of who we are. *Learn Together – (Pioneering, Collaborative Learning) - We are a future-focused school. We will work and learn from and with one another. Our school will flourish in authentic learning by utilising the expertise and knowledge available around us. *Shine Together – (Courage, Success and Pride) - We will empower our school to be risk takers and to seek excellence in all we do to prepare for an unknown future. We will celebrate all our achievements to foster pride in ourselves, each other, and our school. We look forward to seeing what great learning opportunities are in store for our students in term 2 of the 2019 Oxford Area School year. Ngā mihi Matt Riley (BOT Chairperson)

CASAFe

(by Sharo

Thirty-seven students from yea to CASAFest at the end of th CASAFest fun, frien After being welcomed into H whakatau, our young people e lip-syncing, football, technolog making and even a

52 Bay Road Oxford

03 312 4197

info@oxford.school.nz

Outdoor education Surfing By Megan Lowen

This year’s Outdoor Education class otherwise known as ABL has been concentrating on adventure based initiatives and surfing for term one. We had the privilege of working with STOKED Surf School at Sumner, who provided experienced and fun-loving surf instructors who are accredited with the NZ Surf Association, to complete our credits. Words from one of our learners…”The course contained one two-hour lesson every week for four weeks and a surf camp (two days of four-hour lessons). After learning about our very limited experience, the instructors taught us how to stand on our board, to turn or ‘rift’ and to Eskimo roll. I learnt that surfing is an endurance sport, because the waves and constant use of your arms, can tire you out very fast. However, there was a pull that kept me coming back for more. Every time I stood up on my board, every time I rode a wave, and every time I was able to manipulate the movement of the board, there was a sense of achievement and accomplishment that made me feel alive. It was this feeling of euphoria that enabled me to persevere through the many times I fell off or got smashed by a wave. The surf camp wasn’t just surfing. We also went for a bike and unfortunately had to learn how to change a tyre. A takeaway dinner made this more bearable. I would recommend this trip to anyone that has a passion for the outdoors, and I’ll take the opportunity to say a big thanks to everyone who was involved in making it happen. I loved every minute of it. By Sarah Buxton.

Homestays needed

FOLIO

Oxford Area School Students NCEA Art Panels

16 April - 5 May 2019

ARTS IN OXFORD GALLERY

OPEN EVERY DAY 10AM - 4PM Except Mondays and public holidays A non-profit Charitable Trust Seeking volunteers

72 Main Street Oxford 03 312 1639 Email: artsinoxfordgallery@gmail.com Web: www.artsinoxford.com

Oxford Area School are looking for suitable homes in the township or on the school bus route to place our incoming International Students. • We require the home to be a safe and warm environment with a welcoming, kind, caring and active family - preferably with children at our school • There is an option to host students for short term up to two weeks or long term for the school year. We are particularly looking for 6mth or 1 yr horsestays for 2019/2020 Students must have their own room with a place to study • Police vetting of hosts is mandatory • A generous weekly payment will be made • We may pay extra for home stays that have horses to ride • We do our best to match the students’ hobbies, interests and personalities to that of the host family If you are interested or have any questions please contact: International Accommodation Coordinator Ph 027 248 2177

est 2019

on Varcoe)

ars 9-13 and four staff travelled he last term for three days of ndship and fair play. Hurunui College with a mihi enjoyed a day which included gy challenge, volleyball, mural a spot of taxidermy.

www.facebook.com/oxfordarea

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

Sections of the Oxford Club

Travel section

The travel section was started in the early 80s with the aim of bringing people together to take trips away or day trips as some lived on their own, or were unable to drive, or just would like some company for outing or trips. Many fun trips have taken place over the years. Looking back on the records, Liz Scott who has taken over the running of this group, says there were trips around the South Island and West Coast, with a Central Otago trip being a highlight for many. The group has been in recession for a few years, but is up and running again and Liz says that since they started they have had a day trip to Diamond Harbour and Lyttelton. Coming up is a trip to Kaikoura to stay at Donegal House on the 7th September, and planning is already underway for a Christmas outing. These will be advertised once they are finalised. Every second year they will look at a trip away for a few nights around New Zealand. As well as trips away they will be looking to go to some shows and other entertainment options.If you are interested in becoming a member of this group, you need to be a member of the Oxford Club, and then section membership is $5.00. Liz says she became involved in the group as she likes to be involved in my local community, and meeting new people who have shifted here over the 35 years I have been away and especially becoming acquainted again with people I grew up with in earlier years when I lived here in Oxford, and View Hill. They are now looking for a secretary and a treasurer to help with the running of the group.

The next meeting will be on Tuesday 14th May 2019 at the Oxford Club or if you would like any further information you can contact Liz Scott, lizziescott2102@gmail.com 3123204 or 0278251805.

WAYNE’S CLEANING SERVICES

We Strive To Be The Best ~ Canterbury Owned & Operated •Domestic & Commercial Weekly Cleaning •Builder’s Cleans •Rental & Moving House Cleans •Walls, Ceilings and Ovens •Domestic & Commercial Windows Ph: Wayne 021 0227 0006 Email: waynescleaningservices@xtra.co.nz

WASTE WATER SERVICING & SEPTIC TANK CLEANING

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

24 HOUR 7 DAY RESPONSE

0800 HYDROVAC 03 366 9187

CANTERBURY OWNED & OPERATED

www.hydrovac.co.nz

Local & Annie Smith Licensee Salesperson M 027 202 8155 E annie.smith@raywhite.com Licensed (REAA 2008)

Community Resource Standing in Your Corner

The

ONE - STOP SHOP

for your Real Estate Needs. 50 Main Street, Oxford T 03 424 1414

Fresh, real milk direct to you at the farm dispenser

Real Milk from our happy, free-range, grass-fed cows..

Self Service

OPEN 7 DAYS 7am - 9pm 56 Ashley Gorge Road, Oxford 2km off the Main Street

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

THEBROKER.co.nz

Lorinda Harrington Registered Financial Advisor M 027 242 3211 E Lorinda@thebroker.co.nz THEBROKER.co.nz

Free Service Specialising in 1st Home buyers

Although Oxford initially gained an excellent reputation as a sawmilling town, throughout the years there have been attempts to encourage additional industries to prosper in the town. In 1885 a prospecting party was sent to Oxford to investigate whether it was feasible to mine gold, coal, diamonds and manufacture glass and cement. This article, published in the Star on 1 July 1885 reports on the findings of the prospectors:The prospecting party which was sent out to search for minerals has returned and handed their report to the Committee under whose direction they were acting. The report deals, in the first instance, with the rumoured existence of gold and coal in close proximity to the township. The so-called coal was proved to be a brittle, dark coloured slate.The creek running through East Oxford, where gold was formerly found, was very carefully examined, but no trace could be obtained. The party sank a hole in Mr Longeson’s land at the source of this creek, and was successful in finding gold, but not in payable quantities. On the same piece of land, stone containing a large percentage of iron was found, but it has not yet been ascertained whether it has any commercial value.In examining the country behind View Hill they came across a drift in which they found some very small diamonds, a number of rubies and a large quantity of crystals. Close to this were found some indications of stream tin. Further in the hills, behind Mr John Lewis’ property, they found a seam of coal of a similar nature to that now being worked in the Malvern hills. The prospectors suggest that further examination of what is called the Ram paddock should be made, the country is showing every indication of the existence of gold and other minerals. A meeting of several of the tradesmen of Oxford was held a short time ago, at the Harewood Arms Hotel, to endeavour to get the industry of glass making started, by utilising the deposit of glass sand found in the township some time ago. A parcel of the sand was sent to the government analyst, who characterised is as very good for common glass. The manufacture of whiting is about to be commenced in the district by Mr Gostling, who has lately arrived from England and who has for a considerable number of years been manager of

discovered in

Oxford

F ro m

ive ch s

Gold

the Ar

with

Jackie Kirk one of the largest cement and whiting manufacturers in the old country. Should this industry not be too heavily handicapped by railway charges, a very large business will be done, as it will be the only factory of the kind in the Australian Colonies. The bush trade does not appear to be sharing in the general depression at present, as a large quantity of fencing material and firewood is being sent away by rail and road. A very much larger trade could be done in firewood if the Railway Department would allow the bushmen the same advantages as the coal mine owners. Oxford has every reason to be dissatisfied with the treatment it receives in this direction. The charge to transport a ton of firewood to Christchurch is 7 shillings and 5 ½ pence yet coal is transported the same distance for 5 shillings and 6 pence. This is surely unfair to the bushmen and to Oxford, as employment could be found for a considerable number of men during the winter months. Trade in building timber has been extremely dull, but the sawmills are busily employed with cutting sleepers.

We are Seeking Expressions of Interest A great opportunity to volunteer for our vibrant non-profit gallery Arts in Oxford at 72 Main St, Oxford. Oxford Arts Trust governing Arts in Oxford now have a vacancy on the Board.

We need people who will enhance our organisation with experience such as accounting, admin, business, retail, fundraising, IT, marketing, public arts, sponsorship and events. If you can contribute to our team we look forward to hearing from you.

Please email your Expression of Interest, CV with two named referees to: artsinoxfordgallery@gmail.com by 5pm Friday 14 June 2019.

ABOUT THE DISTRICT PLAN REVIEW

Help Shape the Content of the Reviewed District Plan We’re reviewing our current District Plan and would like your feedback on what we’re thinking. The District Plan provides the rules for how people can build on or develop land. It covers topics which affect our everyday lives such as indigenous biodiversity, building, subdivision, transport and commercial and industrial zones. While we are still in the early stages of drafting our reviewed District Plan, we’re inviting your feedback on:

• Key matters that need to be addressed • Potential changes to current rules.

Pick up a copy of ‘What’s the Plan?’ from any Council Service Centre or Library. To have your say and find out more, including details about informal drop-in sessions, visit waimakariri.govt.nz/letstalk.

Please make sure your feedback reaches us by 5pm, Monday 6 May 2019.

St Peter Chanel Catholic Parish Sacred Heart Church, Oxford

REGULAR SUNDAY MASS: 8.30am

Debbie Hawkins

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

by Appointment only

ENQUIRIES: Waimakariri Parish Ph: 03 313 6285

Sunday Service & Children’s Church

10AM

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

Phone 03 312 4499

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

YOUTH GROUP

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

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

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

ALL WELCOME | Call Josie 022 089 8331

OXFORD DISTRICT

UNION PARISH

Sharing Christ in our Fellowship and Community

~ Sunday 5th May - Communion Service ~ ~ 12th May - (Mothers Day) - Service ~ ~ Sunday 19th May - Service ~ (Salvation Army Service at 6.00pm) ~ Sunday 26th May - Service ~

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

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

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

‘FOOD TOGETHER’ Fruit & Vege Co-op Tuesdays at Oxford Baptist Church. 10.15am -12.30pm Tuesday Community Lunch. 12.30pm - 1.30pm Fresh Produce Weekly

021 024 19237

320 Kiri Kiri Road | Burnt Hill | Oxford | North Canterbury

dipl. NSF , CCNM/NZSE, RMT-MNZ

Marina Vermaat 64 High Street Oxford 7430

03 312 4731

027 311 1140

Physio Direct

For an appointment call

0800 55 55 123 1 Redwood Place, Oxford

BODY & SOUL, CLOTHING & CHRIST

TWELVE BASKETS FOODBANK

www.theoxfordhouseofbeauty.com

03 312 4294

Rural Physio at YOUR doorstep • Work & Sports • Surgical Rehabilitation related Injuries • Neck & Back • Muscle & Joint Pain Pain • ACC Accredited • Massage

EARLY LEARNING CENTRE

Every 2nd & 4th Wednesday(s) in the Church Lounge, 10am - 12 noon.

Eftpos & Oxipay repayment option available

ALL SERVICES WILL BE HELD AT 9.30AM AT THE OXFORD UNION CHURCH, 85 MAIN STREET, OXFORD

Mondays 10am - Open Sessions for all ages

OXFORD MUMS

Advanced Facials, Peels & Skin Treatments. Waxing, Eyelash & Brow Emphasis

UNION (METHODIST & PRESBYTERIAN) PARISH SERVICES FOR MAY 2019

MUSIC & MOVEMENT (0 TO 5YRS)

Tuesdays at the Oxford Baptist Church, 10.15am - 12.30pm & 1.00pm - 3.00pm.

The Oxford House of Beauty

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

Moana, Lake Brunner Ph: 03 738 0158

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

52 Church Street, Oxford

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

www.angelcats.biz

THE 50s UP

Hours: 8am-11am & 4pm-6pm

CONCERT

Phone: 03 312 5744 Mob: 027 457 4431 Email: Theresa@coolcats.nz “Time spent with cats is never wasted” 1891 South Eyre Rd

BRASS BAND Oxford Town Hall Wednesday, 22nd May at 2pm.

$10

includes Afternoon Tea: Tickets available at the door.

ALL WELCOME

www.coolcats.nz

For Beautifully Handcrafted Books Tessa Warburton BOOKBINDER • Restoration • Repair • Private Tuition

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

CUST BOWLING CLUB Club days Saturday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 1.30pm. Come along and have a go, ph: 312 5892. CUST CRAFT GROUP Meets every 1st & 3rd Tuesday 10am-2pm at the Cust Community Centre. New members always welcome. for details phone Beth 03 312 3191 or phone /text Ricki 021 264 6536 CUST | OXFORD ST JOHN Cadet Group and Ambulance Supporters Scheme Committee, ph: 3125839 or 3125538. CUST TOY LIBRARY Indoor and outdoor toys to borrow. Open Sat 10-11.30am & Mon 9.30-10.30am at Cust Community Centre. DARFIELD LINE DANCERS Every Wednesday - 6:00pm - 8:30pm $7 per night Darfield Rec Centre. Beginner & Improver classes. Two left feet OK. Great fun. Contact Jenny 03 312 4896 or 0274 452 285 OXFORD SENIOR CITIZENS Meeting on the 2nd Wednesday of the month 1:30pm at the OWMC. PH Carol on 3123019 OXFORD CRAFT MARKET 1st Sunday of every month except January 10m - 2pm Oxford Town Hall OXFORD PROMOTIONS

Meets Third Monday of each Month February-November 7pm at Oxford Club Meeting Room New members welcome to help promote the Oxford area

MONDAY CAFE

Come along for a chat and morning tea at the St James-on-the-Cust hall every 4th Monday 10-11.30am. All ages welcome, ph Sandra on 03 310 2074.

NEW TO OXFORD? Join us for coffee/tea and a chat at Cafe 51 on Main Street,10am every 1st and 3rd Monday of the month. OXFORD ALPINE TAEKWONDO Classes - Mondays & Wednesdays Oxford GP Hall Juniors: 5:30pm – 6:30pm Seniors: 6:00pm – 7:30pm Phone Matt 027 432 4249 or email info@OxfordTaekwondo.club First three classes are free. OXFORD BIRD RESCUE Raptor rehabilitation specialists at 77 Sales Road , Oxford ph: 021 292 7861 OXFORD COMMUNITY GARDENS Meets every Thursday 10am beside the Men’s Shed, Pearson Park. All welcome, ph: 312 1536. OXFORD COMMUNITY MEN’S SHED The Oval, Pearson Park. Tuesday 7pm 9pm Men and Women, Thursday 10am - 12.30 Men only, Thursday 7pm - 9pm Men only, Saturday 10am - 2pm OXFORD CYCLE GROUP Meets at Oxford Farmers Market carpark every Monday morning at 9.30, for a casual ride about 1 1/2 hours, then coffee. Ph Mary on 03 313 3259. OXFORD MUSEUM

Open every Sunday:11am-4pm, Friday: 1-3.30pm, Wednesday & Saturday: 1-3.30pm. Main St, Oxford.

OXFORD & DISTRICTS LIONS CLUB INC.

Meet 4th Thursday of every month Enquiries to Secretary - 03 312 5351 President - 027 4660 250

Schnur

CAKE DECORATING FONDANT MODELING CLUB Learn the art of cake decorating - any experience welcome Ph Patsy 021 022 01656

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

Design hin

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

Directory

Publis

Community

rt rba

OXFORD DOGS WALKING GROUP Meets 9:30am Mondays at the big tree parking area beside the Service Centre. Contact Lee Leonard on 312 1536.

OXFORD LINE DANCING 4:30pm - at the Oxford Club. Every Thursday at 160 High Street. No Partner needed! Great Exercise, good Music, Excellent company. Other classes Tuesday & Thursday. Come and enjoy the Fun! Enquiries contact Vicky 027 388 8929 or gvhamilton@gmail.com OXFORD SPINNING GROUP Meets 10am-2pm alternate Wednesdays and one Monday/month. Social woolcrafting group, beginners welcome, ph: 312 3345 OXFORD SQUASH CLUB Have Fun! Get Fit! For all ages, casual or competition. Club nights Wednesdays, 6pm, ph: Shelley 0279201738 OXFORD WEDNESDAY WALKERS & TRAMPERS. Walks from 3 hours to day tramps. Over bush, farmland and roads - 9:15am Start

ph: Anne on 03 312 4375 or 027 298 7750.

OXFORD WOMEN’S FORUM Meets on the first Thursday of every second month, March-Nov with meal and guest speakers, ph: Margaret on 03 312 4478. SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING Great exercise. No partners required. Tuesdays, ph: Judi on 312 4291. WAIMAKARIRI BRIDGE CLUB Meets every Thursday 7.15pm at the Waimakariri Golf Club rooms. YUMMY MUMMY’S OXFORD A group that helps families with new babies with meals/baking. Volunteers always appreciated, ph: Amanda on 027 490 7052.

Arts In Oxford Gallery Public Notice.

Our Winter hours are now

Open Wed - Sun 10am-4pm. Closed Mon, Tues & public holidays. Art Gallery ~ Gift Shop ~ Workshops

Oxford Historical Records Society Inc ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING To be held at the Museum, Tuesday 14th May 2019 at 7pm All welcome

Oxford Community Trust

GREAT PEOPLE + GREAT PEOPLE GREAT PEOPLE ++ GREAT PEOPLE + GREAT PEOPLE SKILLS =+= GREAT GREAT SKILLS = GREAT SKILLS GREAT SKILLS SKILLS = RESULTS! GREAT = RESULTS! GREAT RESULTS! GREAT RESULTS! Earthworks Earthworks –– for for Commercial Commercial --

“Bringing the community together...” Ox-Box Youth Events Family Roller Disco 14th June 6.30-8.30 GP Hall Junior Formal coming in Term 2!

GREAT RESULTS! Earthworksand for Commercial Residential lifestyle blocks Earthworks – –for Commercial - -

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

Residential and lifestyle blocks

Christmas Wonderland Would you like to join a Committee to organise the Christmas Wonderland? Please let us know if you are interested in helping with this event - 312 3006

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

Gymathon Coming in June - pop in to the Trust to pick up an entry form and get your team together Transport Medical transport available $30.00 to Christchurch, $15.00 to Rangiora. Phone the Trust 312 3006 to Book.

Quality First Quality First Quality First Ph 03 313-1670 Baydon 027First 405 9910 Quality Ph 03 313-1670 Baydon 027 405 9910 Email : info@bayphil.co.nz Quality First Ph 03 Email 313-1670 Baydon 027 405 9910 1734627 : info@bayphil.co.nz 1734627 Ph 03 Email 313-1670 Baydon 027 405 9910 : info@bayphil.co.nz 1734627 Ph 03Email 313-1670 Baydon 027 4051734627 9910 : info@bayphil.co.nz

Email : info@bayphil.co.nz

Tuesday shoppers bus $7.00 to Rangiora - bookings at the Trust. We also have vans that are available to hire for your outings. Thank you to the North Canterbury Mini Van Trust for supporting the Oxford Community Trust with the use of vans and a car for medical and social transport.

1734627

YOUR ONE STOP HARDWARE STORE

YES, IN OXFORD 100’s of products for the

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

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

Ph: 03 312 4521

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

www.womersleys.co.nz Tai Chi w Qigong w Yoga fitness weekly classes help to leave you feeling  long and strong, calm and centred Jaycee Hall, Oxford For more information:

call/text Gabrielle 027 225 1646

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

Kids & Family Activities Exhibitions

Thank you to our Fab five Funders.... • NZ Lottery Grant Board • The Rata Foundation • United Way • Waimakariri District Council • Community Organisation Grant Scheme

Oxford Community Trust

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

Got a community activity that brings people together? Call the Oxford Community Trust to list your activity here...

(03) 312 3006

37 Main St, Oxford 9.00am - 3.00pm Mon - Fri

hand

Style Second

With Kerri Booth

This month is the perfect time to sort that winter wardrobe. Scarf Print is a fun new look this season and you will see it in dresses, tops and skirts. I still find it fun to see what is trending on the High Street, and how they are using colour to create a new look for a season. I don’t know about you, but I find it even harder to be inspired on how to create looks out of my wardrobe in the winter. Maybe because it’s cold ,and the least amount of time I have to spend changing then the better! This is why autumn is the time to sort the winter wardrobe so by the time its freezing, you know exactly what outfits you have to wear. A winter wardrobe so depends on what your life looks like. This season, even more so than the summer season I think. Being outside in the winter is going to make your outfits look very different then being inside a warm office. Three items that I consider winter essentials are: A classic wool coat - Now keep an eye out in the sales and definitely the second hand stores. My favourite wool coat is green and was discovered in a Sallies Store in town. It’s warm and makes jeans and a jumper look dressy but works with a dress and boots. Get the cut right and you cant go wrong. Boots - now I have to add tall and ankle boots here. One pair of each. Ankle boots work well with pants, and tall boots have your skirts and dresses covered. If you are going to spend money then boots are the item to spend it on. Get good ones. You wont regret it. It’s a complete miracle if you find fantastic boots in a second hand store as foot size is such an individual thing. Scarves - I feel like I harp on about scarves but they are the easiest and cheapest way to freshen up an outfit. If you are a bit nervous of playing with animal print or a new colour, then a scarf is a way of trying it out without being too radical. I could still go on with items that I love to have, but if you can nail these three things, then it’s a huge help to pull lots of your other items together in your wardrobe.

Council Update With Wendy Doody Waimakariri Councillor

Confident Driving Course for the Mature Driver – Oxford Town Hall Monday 27th May 2019. (50+ years) We change physically and mentally as we age. This can affect our driving ability so don’t delay. Book now for this confident driving course. It is a fun and interactive day. I appreciate being able to attend this informative and well presented course which is being funded by Age Concern and Waimakariri District Council. Kaiapoi Community Centre – Wednesday 8th May; Charles Upham Village Rangiora – Wednesday 15th May; Main Power Oval Rangiora – Monday 10th June. Contact Age Concern: for bookings and information – 03 366 0903. 2019 Community Services Awards – Do you know someone who deserves this award? If so collect an application form from the Council Service Centre or Library, and return the completed form with the relevant details pertaining to the person whom you wish to nominate to the Waimakariri District Council by 5pm Monday 20 May 2019. Solid Waste – New bins are being delivered out to the community who ordered these bins before 1 March 2019. The team anticipate all bins ordered will be delivered by end of June. If property owners decide they want to get a bin or bins, then email office@wmk.govt.nz and they will arrange to have bins delivered, but this won’t be until after the initial roll-out schedule has been completed. Any bins requested after the cut off date are unlikely to be delivered before 1 July.“Rethink Rubbish – Working on waste together” is going to be the new tagline and look for this service which will cover everything from bins, to recycling centres, education activities and more. In terms of how this interacts with our corporate branding, Rethink Rubbish will be used in a similar fashion to the Aquatic Facilities and Libraries which have their own look while still clearly being a Council service. Citizenship - Thursday 28th March saw 21 people confirmed as new citizens in front of family and friends. Nationalities represented were Filipino, Irish, Australian, British, Afghani, Russian, Chinese and American. Multicultural Event - In partnership with Te Runganga o Ngāi Tūāhuriri and Waimakariri District Council, the Migrants and New Comers Group are delighted to be holding their next Multicultural Festival at Tuahiwi Marae on Saturday 25th May from 4pm – 8pm. Participants will be welcomed onto the Marae with a traditional Pōwhiri and the event will celebrate the vibrant mix of cultures across our community. We are inviting people to bring a plate of food to share from their own culture or country.

WE NEED YOUR ARTWORK!

APPLY NOW forms available online

kaiapoiartexpo.co.nz or can be picked up from

Waimakariri Libraries ART EXPO JULY 13 & 14

Oxford Farmers Market

Plant & Seed Swap

June 1st - 8th | 9.00am - 12.00pm

Every Sunday 9.00am - 12.00pm Main Street Oxford

EFT Ava POS ilabl e

FUN ~ FOOD ~ AMBIENCE

You’ll find it all at your local Market

www.oxfordfarmersmarket.co.nz

VIEW HILL

IMPROVEMENT SOCIETY (Inc)

The View Hill Improvement Society was formed in 1959 to benefit the local community. Our committee is seeking input from past members,residents,and interested parties for direction on the future of this organisation. Please contact the following with your thoughts JEREMY WAYNE CHRIS JOHNATHAN DAVID

021 204 2041 03 3124 279 021 1619 964 021547 828 03 3124 155

Haiku publishing

for Celebrate at

St David ’s

Words by Jackie Kirk ~ Photo by Krystle Photography

St David’s Presbyterian Church in Cust occupies an important place in local history. When the first church opened on 13 December 1885 it was immediately evident that its 150-person capacity wasn’t large enough, and the building had to be extended by twenty-one feet to accommodate the congregation. Another problem arose in 1898 when a joist gave way due to the combined weight of the congregation, and the floor collapsed mid service. Affected worshippers simply moved to other seats and the service resumed.The decision to build a new church was made and the present church was built in 1935 at a cost of £1300. Its windows are Art Deco, an international design style at its height in the 1930s. One of the stained-glass windows was donated by the Dewar family in memory of Alexander Robert Dewar, who at the age of twenty-two lost his life during WWII. The rich history of the building and its attractiveness makes St David’s Church the perfect location for weddings. To celebrate your special day amongst Art Deco architectural features in a picturesque village setting please contact: Reverend Laurence Ennor (Minister) 03 357 4475 or 027 233 4687 ennor09@gmail.com Anne Croft (Parish Clerk) 03 312 5513croftfarm@yahoo.co.nz

local poet Words & Photo by Shaz Davis

Oxford resident, Doc Drumheller, has had three of his haiku published in the latest New Zealand haiku anthology, Number Eight Wire. The 150-page book has 330 short poems, by 70 authors, written over the ten years from 2008 to 2018, with many of the haiku receiving honours in international contests. The anthology reflects the many forms that the short, naturefocused poems can take in English, and includes poets from Milton in Otago, to Kerikeri in the Far North, with clusters of haiku excellence in Christchurch, Wellington, Hamilton and Tauranga. While Doc, who went straight from school to touring playing rock music, writes many things from music to plays, but poetry is his passion. He writes experimental free verse, but enjoys the immediacy and ability to capture a brief snapshot of life in haiku, and also edits and publishes a literary arts journal, Catalyst. Doc says the most important part of being a writer or poet, is having the discipline to write. He always carries a notebook, and often writes at lunchtime or in the evenings, and writes prolifically when travelling, writing between 300 – 400 haiku during a recent four-week trip to China. The other important aspect is confidence. “You have to trust yourself to be a writer. You’re usually sitting there by yourself, and you need to be confident,” says Doc who has spent 15 years as a creative writing tutor at the Polytechnic, and 12 years at the School for Young Writers. Doc, who works at the Waimakariri Libraries as the learning connections coordinator, has published ten collections of poetry, and has also had a poem accepted for publication in the latest annual Best NZ Poems anthology. The haiku anthology, Number Eight Wire, is available for $20, plus postage from nzhaiku@gmail.com or by calling 07 577 6676.

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success EVERY DECISION revolves around you “our patient“

WE ARE YOUR LOCAL EMERGENCY RESPONDERS enrolling here helps fund this service. Doc Drumheller reading the Number Eight Wire anthology. *Doc Drumheller is the pen name of Jason Clements; chosen because his father was a doctor on the US Navy ships and was called Doc and Drumheller is his grandmother’s surname.

CUST WEST EYRETON GARDEN CLUB

Things have been blooming with the Garden Club. Membership increased by 15% since least year! We think this is due to the exciting field trips to some of North Canterbury’s most breath-taking gardens. And also, the companionship of people with a likeminded interest in all things floral. Recently we have visited some beautiful gardens specifically in the Oxford area. The Christchurch Botanical Gardens also provided a guided tour. Members who are very familiar with the Gardens, found the insights and history particularly fascinating. Our next big seasonal event is the Autumnal Gathering,

WE OPERATE 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

LIFE THREATENING SITUATIONS impact routine appointment times.

WE ARE RURAL DOCTOR’S our hearts are with our community.

a 3 course, pot luck dinner at the West Eyreton Hall at 6:30pm

on Saturday 18th May. Come along; you will be made very welcome. Last year with all the frivolities, we pushed the boat out and didn’t wrap up until 9:30pm. Join in the fun! New members are always welcome. Please contact the Secretary on 312-5650 or 021 191 9150, or email custwegardenclub@yahoo.co.nz.

WE ACTIVELY ADVOCATE improving and bringing new services to this community.

PATIENT PORTAL SERVICES are available to connect you to your health information.

WE ARE COMMITTED TO providing the community with excellent health care service.

TAG ND ricals A t T TES ur Elec st T o all y from ju +GS

5e a

$3.9

Oxford Community Health Centre

WHAT SHOULD BE TESTED ?

Microwaves ~ Ofﬁce equipment ~ Lamps Extension leads & power boards ~ RCD’s Vacuum cleaners ~ Electric power tools

Charlotte Pulley Franchise Owner

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WE WON’T BE BEATEN ON VALUE OR SERVICE!

Friends of the

Oxford Hospital Words by Emily Chapman ~ Photo supplied

The Friends of the Oxford Hospital group was formed in 1924 and was initially called the Oxford Ladies Committee. The reason it was started was to provide comfort for the patients, and this ethos is much the same today. Their role is defined as:-Providing extra items for the Patients and Hospital which are not provided by the C.D.H.B, which will enhance the care, comfort and treatment of the patients. These extra items can come in the form of additional toiletry items, birthday cakes and other items to make their stay more comfortable, and the patients appreciate the level of friendliness, compassion and care the hospital provides.

As well as this, they will put on events and trips out. Just recently the group had a trip out to the cheese factory in Loburn, followed by a cuppa and cheese and crackers in the park. Events can be theme teas, fish and chip nights, and the Christmas Party and Carols night. As well as supporting the patients directly, the group also support the gardener and look after Blue the hospital cat, who is a popular resident of the hospital for patients and staff alike. Community groups and local businesses have been instrumental in helping with fundraising for larger items such as heat pumps, new thermal curtains and blinds, soho mattress and books for the library, and the group is very grateful to Mike and Nicky Rutherford from FreshChoice Oxford, Oxford & Districts Lions, Emma’s at Oxford and the Oxford Club for their support. The hospital was built in 1920 as a maternity and general hospital, and next year will be celebrating 100 years of service to the community. The Friends would like to improve the flower beds at the Hospital. If you would like to donate roses, camellias and rhododendrons for this purpose please contact Kathy at kathy_de_ath@yahoo. com. Kathy De’Ath took on the role of President of the group in November 2016 and says “I saw it as the perfect opportunity to help our local hospital. I thoroughly enjoy my role. and working together with Gaye and Barbara, and our fabulous committee, is fun and very rewarding.” If you would like to help the group, they are always in need of good quality items for their fundraising sales table. All money raised benefits the patients. Items can be dropped in to the hospital.

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

KEY MESSAGES • Planning is underway for the OSHSDG to participate in a Civil Defence Exercise on Saturday 27 July from 0830 – 1400. This is a Waimakariri District Council Civil Defence exercise, based on a scenario of a major Alpine Fault fracture and earthquake. • The OSHSDG will use the opportunity to conduct a table top exercise to practice for the situation where there will be extraordinary health service needs. • The OSHSDG expect to use the exercise to establish a local emergency framework, to achieve a coordinated communication of key messages to the public and to ensure all health providers in the area work together in an emergency.

AGAPE DANCE ACADEMY Beautiful ballet, fun Jazz & Contemporary and Tap Dance for 3yrs to Adult in Oxford. Phone Miss Belinda: 021 049 1315 or Facebook: Agape Dance Academy NZ CHIMNEY SWEEP Winters Coming!! Rotary Brush Technology From $70 single story Book now before the rush 0800-SWEEP ME or 021-0277-1927

WANTED TO BUY Old gas pumps / petrol bowsers, porcelain / enamel signs & oil / petrol memorabilia. ph. Chris 027 516 0669

BETTER BOOKKEEPING I’ll take care of your bookkeeping, so you can focus on your business. Phone Tara 027 370 2885 BOWEN THERAPY Gentle bodywork for any age and any condition. Nutritional tonics and stress management can be used to aid the healing process. Ring your professional practitioner, Johanna Lettink on 312 1316. FRIDAY NIGHT SPECIAL Burgers, Fries, and Beer $20. Lots of choices. Dine in or takeaway. Breakfast and lunch available Tuesday to Sunday at Route 72, Cust. Ph: 312 5595 or visit: www.route72.co.nz.

BECOME A GARDENER, JOIN ME! Full license & some experience needed. Job's in Cust/Oxford area ph Chloe 021 029 38458

LEATHER & FASHION HANDBAGS and wallets, possum/merino NZ gifts, jewellery, art and homewares. Route 72 Cafe Bar Emporium, Cust. Ph: 312 5595. MANUKA HONEY and other New Zealand-made skincare ranges for men and women. Homeopathic remedies for the whole family. Also Kings Seeds. Route 72 Cafe Bar Emporium, Cust. Ph: 312 5595. Email: route72@clear.net.nz.

NEED A GARDENER FOR SPRING? Local to Oxford/Cust area ph Chloe 021 029 38458

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Here for Life with Oxford Constable Mitch Alatalo

with Area St John Station Manager Matt Ohs

with Oxford Chief Fire Officer Trevor Ealam

Yet again I sit here, asking where has the last month gone? The days are getting shorter and by the looks of the colour of the leaves, the season is changing. It has been another busy month in the Oxford and wider area. Of concern is the number of rural burglaries that are occurring in the area. Quad bike and trailers are being targeted at the moment. Please be security conscious. Secure your belongings. It’s as simple as taking the keys out of your quad bike or taking your trailer off the road side. Like I have said in the past, you are the eyes and ears of the community. If you see something or someone out of place let us know, sooner rather than later. From a road safety perspective, it was not a good month. A moment of inattention can dramatically change the lives of many. We share the roads with our friends, family and strangers. We are all responsible for everyone’s safety, so be vigilant and respect your fellow road users. It’s been a busy month for all those hunters out there with the Roar and the holidays. I thought it would be appropriate to remind everyone about their and everyone else’s safety, while out there enjoying what our beautiful district has to offer. In saying that if you see someone where they should not be, Police would like to know. Unlawful hunters are out there. From a safety perspective more than anything, not knowing who else, is in the block you are hunting, is a very real danger, so identify your target before anything else and above all have fun out there. Thank you for your time, until next month, Be safe, Feel safe.

During March there were 37 incidents in the Oxford ambulance response area, bringing the number of incidents since 1 January 2019 to 124. With winter sport now underway, we are starting to see a rise in the number of sport related soft tissue injuries. Sprains, strains and bruises are all soft tissue injuries, although the cause and tissues involved in each injury are different. A sprain is an injury that involves the ligaments and other soft tissues around a joint, such as an ankle or wrist. A strain occurs away from a joint and involves a torn or overstretched muscle or tendon, commonly in the calf, thigh or lower back. A bruise is a soft tissue injury that involves the skin and nearby tissues following a blow or other forces that break a blood vessel close to the surface of the body. Bruising may be seen with either a sprain or strain.Symptoms and signs include pain, loss of power and/or swelling. How you can help - apply ‘RICE’: Rest Assist the patient into the position of greatest comfort.Rest for up to 24 hours is helpful but gentle movement of the affected joint should be encouraged. Ice An ice pack will help to reduce pain. It can be applied for 10 to 20 minutes at a time and can be repeated once if pain persists.Always wrap an ice pack in a damp cloth before applying it. Avoid prolonged or direct application of ice. Compression Apply a good-quality crepe roller bandage to the injured limb. Ensure that firm and even pressure is applied without slowing the circulation of blood to the fingers or toes of the affected limb.If the bandage increases the pain, DO NOT persist with it. Elevation Elevate the injured area for the first 24 to 48 hours.Paracetamol can be used during the first 24 to 48 hours, following directions on the package.If there is significant loss of function or severe pain, consult a doctor. We are continually recruiting ambulance officers, if you would like information call the Oxford station on 03 312 3516. The ambulance station is not manned 24 hours a day, for medical emergencies or medical advice please call 111.

The Brigade was called eight times in March, which was not as busy as the previous month. Two calls were to motor vehicle accidents with the occupants treated for minor injuries, two vegetation fires, one of them was deemed suspicious, two to investigate smoke in different areas, one was a permitted crop residue burn, one to assist the Cust Fire Brigade and one to assist with a child locked in a vehicle. This brings our total calls for the year to thirty three. This month’s messages are; The Waimakariri District is now in an open fire season. Please be careful when you are burning, taking into account weather conditions and the environment. With day light saving ending April 7, please check or change your smoke alarm batteries. For those that find this difficult to do please contact a brigade member for help or contact me after hours on 3124695 so I can arrange assistance.

Enjoy BINGO again at the Oxford Club

SUNDAY May 5th 6.30pm

Great Raffle buckets ~ Good night out ~ Fundraiser for OAS Japan trip

POLICE - FIRE - AMBULANCE - DIAL 111

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