the
Obser ver
OCTOBER 2021
deal r e p u he s from t
r 20g ba ly buy a 1 r fo on range
. 9 $1F4RE9 el size E trav
ive a ar. & r ece (55g) b
Phone 312 4314
49B Main Street, Oxford
Monday - Friday 8.30am - 5.30pm
Saturday 9.30am - 12.30pm
WE WILL BE CLOSED THE SATURDAY AND MONDAY OF LABOUR WEEKEND
maindividehairlounge
WE ARE OPEN
AT LEVEL 2!
ONLINE BOOKINGS N O W AVA I L A B L E !
We have now enabled our online booking system for your convenience! 53A MAIN STREET OXFORD
03-312 3311 C H E C K OU T OU R WE BS I T E F OR A L L Y OU R H A IR C ARE & BE A U T Y BRA N D N E EDS !
TO BOOK S I M P LY H E A D T O W W W. M A I N D I V I D E H A I R L O U N G E . C O . N Z
two
AUCTION
OCTOBER
2021
Welcome to our October issue. It’s great to be back at Level 2 with a little more normality! After the lockdown came the winds, and there has been some significant damage all around the district. Although we are all used to the spring winds, we like most people, are pretty sick of them right now! We were looking through some old copies of the Observer and realised it has been operating for 10 years. It is a privilege to be a part of the life of this magazine, that was started in 2011 by Jill Edwards. Over these 10 years the Observer has changed and developed, but it’s essence remains the same. It is a place for local information, stories about our communities, and a place to showcase local businesses. Every month we get to meet lots of different people in our community, and we are always grateful for your support as readers.
Springfield 7 George Street
2
1
1
2
2
Living The Lifestyle!
Have you dreamt of escaping the hustle and bustle of the city? Are you yearning for a lifestyle that offers peace, privacy and breath-taking views? A property with room to be more self-sufficient yet easy care ... then look no further. This much-loved relocated school house situated on 1,619 square metres of land boasts all the above. A home ready to move into and reap the rewards. Don’t hesitate, call now for more information, an auction pack and viewing times. Auction Wednesday 13th October 2021, from 2.00pm. Russley Golf Club, 428 Memorial Avenue, Christchurch (unless sold prior). Jessica Murphy 313 6158 | 027 948 3000 jessica.murphy@harcourts.co.nz Four Seasons Realty 2017 Ltd | Licensed Agent REAA 2008
Four Seasons Realty
Thank you to all of our advertisers , some of whom have been part of the magazine since the beginning. We hope you will enjoy this issue.
the design hub
Bruc e & Emily
creative solutions
You can now check out the Observer online through our website www.schnurrbartdesignandpublishing.co.nz
the
Obser ver
OCTOBER 2021
Frews Celebrate 100 years | Cocktail time Pet allergy advise |Getting in shape + much more
design | print | publishing • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
logos flyers & leaflets large format posters ad design business cards brochures & booklets Indoor & outdoor signs labels display cards stickers Flags window vision print cut vinyl print & binding solutions website design
we are a all in one - stop print shop.
T H E N OV E M B E R I S S U E Advertising Deadline | October 20th
C A L L O R E M A I L T O D AY 027 773 3324 info@oxfordobserver.co.nz three
www.schnurrbartdesignandpublishing.co.nz
Skyla to the rescue by Candice Breeze
Another exciting event happening for LandSAR is happening on October 2-3rd, when Ben Mc Drury plans to climb Mt Thomas for 24 hours to raise funds for LandSAR. Although Ben has already climbed Mt Thomas several times before, (including one time when he ran up it in 43 minutes); he wants to push himself mentally and physically by doing it for 24 consecutive hours. For Ben it was originally going to be a personal challenge, but a workmate suggested that he could make it more meaningful by raising money for a charity. With Ben’s father being a volunteer for LandSAR it seemed like the perfect place to raise money for the organisation. Ben plans to climb Mt Thomas up and down at least 10 times within the 24 hour limit, giving him approximately two hours to trek up and down the mountain. So far Ben has raised over $2,000 for LandSAR but he is hoping he can get to $3,000. The money raised will be spent to fund new equipment for LandSAR. People will come and go throughout the 24 hours to support Ben in his venture, with LandSAR volunteers coming along and a few of his running mates who are keen to join him in a climb or two.
To most people September 8 started off as any normal Wednesday would. However for Ron Ealam and rescue dog Skyla it started off a bit differently. At 3.30am Ron awoke to a call saying he needed to get a search team together, along with Skyla, to search Mt Oxford Carpark to Ryde Falls to locate a lost party. Skyla started by casting her nose on the ground to find a human scent. This is done while she is on a tracking harness. It’s Ron’s job to notice any change in behaviour with Skyla when she locates a scent. “When Skyla locates a scent, she will follow at a quick pace until the person is located, and is rewarded afterwards with a game and lots of play,” says Ron Ealam. After two hours of searching, Skyla located the missing party at 5.30am. After spending the night in the busy, the party were happy to be found by an excited dog. Ron has been with LandSAR for 48 years, and chose Skyla from a litter because “she had play drive and hunt drive which are attributes to develop a search and rescue dog.” Skyla has received 15 months of training before being given search and rescue certification. In her training she is trained specifically to locate human scent and follow a line left by a missing person. However the training is not over for Skyla, she will continue to train and track working towards her certification in area search.
four
CANTERBURY LANDROVER ARE SPECIALISTS IN SERVICING AND REPAIRING ALL MAKES AND MODELS OF LAND ROVERS. WE ARE ENTHUSIASTIC AND PASSIONATE ABOUT PROVIDING THE HIGHEST QUALITY SERVICE AND W.O.F REQUIREMENTS STOCKISTS OF NEW & SECOND HAND PARTS You can give us a call on 03 928 3250 email service@canterburylandrover.co.nz or come see us at either of our Canterbury Landrover Locations 62 Kennedys Hill Rd Springbank NORTH CANTERBURY
218 Hazeldean Rd Addington CHRISTCHURCH five
DO YOU NEED A BLOOD TEST? The Oxford Community Health Centre runs a blood clinic every morning from 8.00 a.m. as one of its routine services to the Oxford community. Laboratory specimens are picked up twice a day and taken into Christchurch for processing. The provision of this service ensures that our patients do not have to travel outside of the district for their blood tests. If you are an enrolled patient at the Practice your blood test is usually funded. We are very pleased to let you know that our Health Care Assistant Jane Fraser has recently completed her in-practice phlebotomy training and is now able to assist the Nursing team in the blood clinic. Oxford Community Health Centre continues to work hard to provide the people of Oxford with a comprehensive health care service that meets the needs of our patients.
(03) 312 4195 | 39 Park Avenue Oxford | FOR ANY MEDICAL EMERGENCY CALL 111
six
oxford
welcomes Doctor Laurie
Originating from Oxford in England, Dr Laurie laughs that it is the Oxford in New Zealand, that has become his real home. He arrived in New Zealand 4 years ago as a Consultant Anaesthetist and during a weekend off work he decided to visit Oxford. He immediately loved the environment and people, and has never looked back. Dr Laurie had always wanted his own clinic but it was only when he settled in Oxford, that the time was right for him to follow his dream and set up an Appearance Medicine Centre. The appropriately named ‘Canterbury Clinic’ opens at the Rata Street Business Hub on Tuesday 12th October. It is open Tuesdays only or by special appointment. Although he is still available to support front-line emergency hospital work, Dr Laurie is committed to developing a range of appearance medicine services at Canterbury Clinic according to demand. As a Consultant Anaesthetist with a long and varied career, Oxford is privileged to have such an experienced doctor in our community, and he is also a registered GP. Dr Laurie says, “I am committed to helping you look and
feel your best - whatever age you are. Whether you want to use cosmetic injectables for a medical condition such as excess sweating or headaches; or if you think your looks need a ‘freshen-up’; or if you wish to start a full facial rejuvenation journey, I can gently guide you every step of the way.”
AS AN OPENING OFFER, DR LAURIE IS OFFERING FREE APPEARANCE AND COSMETIC INJECTABLE CONSULTATIONS, VALUED AT $120. This is a great opportunity to privately discuss your needs with an experienced doctor provider close to home, so call or book online for a discreet consultation.
PHONE 03-9258875 OR BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.CANTERBURYCLINIC.NZ. If Tuesdays do not suit you, don’t’ hesitate to call Dr Laurie to discuss a special appointment time.
seven
inv ested
in Oxford
Annie Smith of Ray White Oxford, has expanded the local franchise with the addition of two more real estate agents to work alongside her. Penny Wilson and Linda Breeze will bring extra experience and capacity to the business, to help people in North Canterbury to buy and sell properties. Annie says “I am invested in this great community, and am excited to have Penny and Linda working with me. They both bring a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm and we are all here to help with all the community’s real estate needs”.
Penny Wilson epitomises both integrity and energy. She is hard-working, with attention to detail in every aspect of your real estate transaction. Penny developed a successful company, purchasing, renovating and managing properties for 15 years, and as this passion grew there was a natural progression towards the real estate. Penny thrives on a challenge, being a glass half-full kind of person, with a can do attitude, negotiating and brokering deals in every aspect. Penny enables her clients to make informed decisions regarding their valuable asset(s) and facilitates an effective negotiation process to secure the best outcome possible. With a passion for everything real estate and a genuine interest in meeting and helping people transition to the next chapter in their life, Penny provides a professional service, going the extra mile to ensure it is as smooth and stress free as possible for her clients.
Annie has a passion for people and real estate, a passion that ensures she gives 110% to all her clients. Annie has a substantial reputation within the Oxford, Cust, Rangiora and Darfield communities for getting great real estate results. She loves what she does....and she is great at it. I have worked in Real Estate for over 15 years and have been successful because I love my job. My clients become my best advocates and I am grateful to have them recommend me to their friends. This is so humbling. I feel very honored when you are trusted to act for them and their families. Matching clients with their home and making the process as stress free and simple is my goal, but above all, making the next step for my clients a possibility and a reality. A great deal of my work comes from repeat business. This is a result of many years of hard work and dedication to my craft. Working with me is not only a pleasure but I hope to make it as stress free as possible.... remembering that it is a stressful time regardless.... I aim to bring professionalism and calm to make the process become easier.
With over 25 years experience in the real estate industry, Linda Breeze is renowned for her personal touch for listing and selling property. If you were to ask Linda what her passions were apart from her family and business, she would tell you tennis, including watching her son play top level tennis. What sets her apart from other salespeople is she believes that relationships are the key to buying and selling property. Linda is passionate about going the extra mile - her thoughtfulness and consideration of her client’s needs is well known amongst her peers and family. Linda has a flair for matching people with property and incorporates her interior design concepts with natural ease, providing a decorating vision for her clients. Linda has a pleasant warm manner which draws people to her. This is evident by the repeat business and referrals that she receives from her past and current clients. Her endless patience, professional and conscientious attitude makes real estate transactions relaxed and fulfilling for all her clients, Linda is an open, friendly and professional woman who endeavours to fulfil your every real estate need.
"Selling With Linda Is A Breeze"
50 MAIN STREET, OXFORD TELEPHONE - 03 424 1414
eight
LET’S TALK ABOUT PLANNING FOR THE DISTRICT’S FUTURE. We’re updating the District Plan to ensure it enables economic and residential growth, while protecting the things that make Waimakariri special. The District Plan sets rules for sustainably managing how people use, subdivide and develop land, what and where they can build and what kind of activities they can undertake. The Proposed District Plan is open for your feedback until 5pm on Friday 26 November. We encourage you to look up your property and any changes that may affect you on the Proposed District Plan.
Find out more and have your say
waimakariri.govt.nz/letstalk
Training paves way for success in North Canterbury’s dairy industry Ngāi Tahu Farming manager Aiden Bettridge credits on-the-job training for helping him rise through the dairy industry. Having started off as a milk harvester in the Bay of Plenty, Aiden saw a future in the industry and headed to Canterbury in 2015 to a job (and a girlfriend – now wife) as a dairy assistant at West Eyreton. He began training with Primary ITO in 2016 and is continuing to study six years and several jobs later. Now studying for a Primary ITO Agribusiness Diploma, Aiden will also work towards a production management qualification. As an employer, he is also supporting his own staff through their Primary ITO programmes. Aiden says in his current role, Ngāi Tahu and his General Manager have been very supportive of his study, initially contributing and, just as importantly, they’ve also supported him with a time and place to study. Over the years, he says his qualifications have enabled him to get jobs. “It’s good to have the paperwork to fall back on.” Ngāi Tahu Farming’s Technical Farm Manager Ash-Leigh Campbell also knows the value of studying while working and is an advocate for Primary ITO programmes. “It is rewarding to see staff further their careers and see their skill set grow, both on-farm and in the classroom.”
To find out more, visit primaryito.ac.nz or call 0800 20 80 20. ten
She says Ngāi Tahu strongly encourages staff to enrol with Primary ITO and they work alongside a training adviser to ensure the programmes match an individual’s competency levels as they progress through the industry. Primary ITO Dairy Sector Manager Louise Duffy says Primary ITO has a network of training advisers who can ensure dairy farmers learn the right skills at the right time. “The real key is building a trusted relationship between the farms and our advisers. It’s important that they know the business well before steering people into the type of learning that works best for everyone. We really admire the value Ngai Tahu places in training and our staff have watched their people progress quickly through their careers with that support.” Louise is a strong believer in careers in the dairy industry, giving the example of a qualified electrician in the region who now relishes being able to have breakfast and lunch with his family, rather than being away from home for 11 hours every day. Training is part of the package. “They do the practical on-farm work, but the Primary ITO programmes teach them the theory, the ’why’ and it helps them make sense of what they’re doing on-farm. They pick things up more quickly.”
observations in Oxford during Lockdown by Beka Hunt
If I have one good memory of Level 4, it’s turning right onto Main Street without giving way to a single vehicle. A close second is taking that obligatory walk on a Saturday afternoon along with the entire neighborhood- the closest one gets to Covid socialisation. However, lockdown brought as much tedium as it did fun. Shopping becomes something to dread, requiring you to suit up and expose yourself to potential Covid outbreaks. Still, the South Island on a whole seems to be taking a much more relaxed approach to the once all consuming pandemic. I’m sure that there were families last year who, like mine, would return from Fresh Choice and immediately shower as the clothes they wore were washed and dried- even food had a two day wait period before it was deemed safe. 2021 Level 4 just didn’t feel the same. Luckily, we’ve made it to Level 2, so we can be distracted by social gatherings and in-house dining. Level 2 also saw the return of our beloved Oxford Farmers' Market. Aside from the wind, it was wonderful to see such friendly faces and support the stall owners. Likewise, it has been very exhilarating to buy from our local stores- especially when takeaways became available. I must admit I took advantage of the Cruisy Days Diner online ordering system! Other local businesses swiftly adapted to, and in turn, succeeded with the Level 3 restrictions. Peter Rielly owns the Black Beech Wine Bar with his wife, Dani. Restricted to takeaway in Level 3, the Black Beech began making pizza deliveries in the immediate township in an effort to improve Covid accessibility. Some residents used the new system, but most drove in to collect their food. Deliveries are something Peter hadn’t tried before Covid, but is planning to reassess once we return to Level 1, as demand for deliveries has all but died. Peter speculates that “people are just happy to get out of the house!” He’s glad that business is picking up again saying, “everybody [Oxford businesses] was slow for the first few days, but last weekend people really came in and supported us.” Still, Peter hopes the Level 4 hospitality rules will be reviewed. “One thing I still can’t understand is certain places can be open in Level 4, like the dairies and supermarkets. We could easily do non contact deliveries.” On the flip side, Ashley Industrial Service (AIS), another local business, was able to remain open through all levels as it supplies large scale essential businesses with food and retail packaging. The owner, Aaron Fisher is incredibly grateful to have opened in Level 4. “I feel quite fortunate to get through with only a hair singed.” He also expressed that he feels deeply for other Oxford businesses, who were not able to open in the two week period. In Level 4, AIS generated a work bubble, with sanitising and social distancing reinforced. Any customers were asked to remain in vehicles and were tended to by masked workers. Ashley Industrial also had to work with their 40 odd staff to minimise contact. “We had to stagger our smokos, to leave more space between seats and to lower the amount of personnel in one room. We have retained that staggered smoko into Level 2”. Overall, he found that due to the protocols and plans put in place last year, transitioning into a full lockdown was easier as a business. Everyone knew the drill- which provides an inkling into the difference between this year and the last. Lockdown has become almost normal. Level 4 has become synonymous with ‘exercising’ and ‘ticking off the to do list’. Level 3 is just the 'takeaways’ level and Level 2 feels like life as usual, with masks. While it certainly has affected our community, there's a strong sense of unity whenever you're out and about in the township. As united as we can be with while keeping our 2 meter distance, that is.
eleven
homeopathy -
natures problem solver by Tracy Ashley
Homeopathy is becoming popular again, as many are moving away from conventional medicines, in efforts to reduce or eliminate side effects & long term damage, that conventional medicines can cause. Now, many pet owners are using it their pets, with great results. Homeopathy has been used since the 18th Century. Veterinarians in the nineteenth century actually used homeopathic texts that were specifically developed for their profession. Many of today’s conventional medicines are derived from natural remedies and homeopathy began to decline in popularity with the development of the pharmaceutical industry.
HOW EFFECTIVE IS HOMEOPATHY AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
The underlying basis of homeopathy is the principle that 'like cures like'. Remedies are derived from substances found in any of the three kingdoms (animal, vegetable, and mineral). To be able to administer homeopathics, requires a high degree of training. Homeopathic treatment may eliminate the need for surgery in certain conditions, or modify the need for medication. Homeopathy can be practised with dogs, cats, horses, ruminants and birds.
HOW CAN MY PET BENEFIT FROM HOMEOPATHY?
Treatments are targeted at a long list of specific problems & assist often in the prevention of further problems. Here are a few of our more commonly seen problems & how homeopathy can help. Anal Gland Blockages. To assist with the general health of the glands around the anus, with inflammation, pain and swelling of the anus and rectum, and also help anal gland infections and abscesses. Anxiety. Great at helping to settle an anxious cat or dog that finds themselves in a stressful situation or for any animal that has become unbalanced on a mental emotional level, whether that is due to stress, anxiety, separation, a frightening event or any form of upset that causes the animals to become, restless, hysterical, scared, jumpy and fretful. Over grooming is often a sign of anxiety or stress in cats. Urinary Conditions To assist pets suffering from urinary incontinence which can be caused by spaying, hormones, obesity or just simply old age and for others suffering from recurring urinary tract infections, cystitis, crystal build up, bladder inflammation and pain. Bowel Conditions. It not only assists with constipation, but can also be used to help promote healthy bowel function. Kidney Issues. Designed specifically to support the normal immune response of an animal suffering from impaired kidney function, kidney complaints, under function and renal failure. Allergies. To support the normal immune response of a cat or dog that is suffering from allergies to grasses, pollens and other allergies. Immunity. To support pets suffering from a challenged immune system resulting in allergies or ill health. If they are healthy but have previously had antibiotics, vaccinations or a poor diet or at times when they need an immune support. If they have been sick with either an acute disease or infection or an aged pet that has a chronic disease. Flea and Worm Prevention. Gentle & Natural worm and Flea control designed specifically to support the normal immune response of an animal suffering from internal parasite complaint and to support the whole body and digestive system. Ears. To support the normal immune response of an animal that is suffering from ear mites, ear inflammation, offensive smells and discharge.
HOW CAN I GET THE BEST RESULTS USING HOMEOPATHY?
Diet is key to all aspects of health so, homeopathy works best when used in conjunction with a quality diet designed to provide essential nutrients to support body function. Success will be seen earlier when issues are addressed at earlier stages. More chronic issues will take longer. As homeopathy is mostly specific treatments, pop in to see one of our nutritional specialists to determine which product may be best for your pet. All our remedies are NZ made and have been developed by a fully qualified Animal Homeopath and Herbalist. We also work with the practitioner on more severe cases. The friendly team at The Feedshack are Natural Nutrition Specialists. twelve
PET
THE FEEDSHACK snuggle friends
ruff play
S U P P L I ES
harnesses & + and leads
nerf dog toys pet tag engraving
nz natural treats
great range of scratching posts nz owned grain free dog food huge selection of pet beds
SHOP AT OUR LOCAL STORES OR CLICK & COLLECT ONLINE
www.feedmypet.co.nz RANGIORA 4 Good Street Phone 03 313 3016
CHRISTCHURCH Bishopdale Mall Phone 03 359 5118
FREE DELIVERY FOR ONLINE ORDERS OVER $49 (Rural rates may apply at checkout) nine
Glentui Lodge
G R O U P A C C O M M O D AT I O N & F U N C T I O N V E N U E
BOOK NOW FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS FUNCTION
GREAT LOCATION SURROUNDED BY BEAUTIFUL NATIVE BUSH FULLY CATERED KITCHEN - ACCOMMODATION FOR GROUPS OF 15 + IDEAL SPOT FOR WEDDINGS & PARTIES, CAMPS & CORPORATE TEAM BUILDING - WALKS - TRAMPING - ABSEILING - ARCHERY TAG - ORIENTEERING - CANYONING - SWIMMING POOL.
BOOK NOW 03 312 1165 meadows@glentui.co.nz 140 Glentui Bush Rd, Glentui 7495, New Zealand fourteen
are you
flat-lining ?
With the arrival of spring comes freshness and new life. Bulbs pop themselves up to display their flashes of colour and everything feels like it’s getting a second chance and can now wake up. Normally this overflows into our habits of spring cleaning and providing a general freshness about the place. But I noticed amongst my people, and myself ,that the bounce was a bit flat for this time of the year. A combination of NZ lockdown, gale force winds, and quite a wet winter was helping to create a general flatness. Messages were rolling on in from clients with comments like ‘I have a wardrobe full of clothes but nothing to wear.’ ‘I’m uninspired’ ‘Everything is tired and flat’ ‘I’m tired and flat’ We were all flatlining. I figured out what the meaning of flatlining is: Fail to increase; remain static. Well that is interesting. Do you also know the person who is flatlining, doesn’t actually know that they are. It’s not till they start living again that they realise flatlining isn’t all that ideal! So what do you do when this happens?
The only effective treatment is to deliver an electric shock using a device called a defibrillator (to de-fibrillate the heart), which stops the chaotic rhythm of a heart, giving it the chance to restart beating with a normal rhythm. Righto. Can’t imagine an electric shock would be my choice of favourite activity. It gets the job done I guess. Now by no means do I recommend using a defibrillator on yourself, but sometimes a wake up call is what we need. Start injecting inspiration into your wardrobe. Try a different way of wearing one item of clothing. Make one small extra effort for your outfit for the day. This is ‘waking you up’ so you don’t remain static. We all know from experience that when you do feel flat, it takes so much effort to try and do one thing for yourself. But as soon as you do, it’s like a snowball effect. It’s a form of energy that builds. Your style is not meant to flatline. Static and failure to increase are not words to describe a true identity of a person. Your style is a form of showing your identity. So allow that springy feeling in the air to soak into your bones.
www.polkadotcom.co.nz
021 059 0984
fifteen
recip e of the month . by Louize Juniper
RHUBARB & RASBERRY CAKE 23 cm round tin lined with baking paper. Oven 180 C. Bake for 50 mins Best served the next day. 200g Butter 1 ½ Cups Soft Brown Sugar 3 Eggs 1 ½ Cups Whole Meal Flour 1 ½ tsp Spoon Baking Soda 1 ½ tsp Spoon Baking Powder 1 Tb Spoon Ground Ginger 1 ½ Cups Sour Cream 2 ½ cups Rhubarb (Chopped) Red is best 1 Zest of Orange 1 Cup Frozen Raspberries
CREAM CHEESE ICING ½ Cup Cream Cheese (Softened) 50g Butter (Softened) 1TB Spoon Rose Water 1Cup Icing Sugar 1 Cup Chopped Rhubarb (Stewed) ½ Cup Frozen Raspberries (Thawed)
METHOD
Cream Sugar and Butter together until light and fluffy using the whisk of a bench mixer. Crack eggs into a bowl mix with a fork, then beat in slowly into the butter mix Mix together all dry ingredients. Beat slowly into butter/egg mix along with the sour cream. Stir in chopped rhubarb, raspberries and orange zest. Put into lined cake tin and bake. Once the 50 mins are up do the skewer test! Poke a small knife or skewer into the centre of the cake. Count to 10 and if it comes out clean its cooked! Leave to cool. To make the icing first cook the rhubarb with the juice from your zested orange, add ¼ cup of water & the raspberries. Slowly heat and the rhubarb will break up and go stringy and become sauce like. Leave to cool. Beat together the cream cheese and butter. Add the icing sugar and beat well add the rose water. Stir through the cooled rhubarb then spread on to cake. Enjoy with Cream, Yogurt or even just more Rhubarb & Raspberry sauce.
sixteen
seventeen
WAY DIFFERENT TO SCHOOL Small classes Industry tutors Practical learning Adventure-based activities High standards and values-based education FREE* for 16–19 years *Subject to Youth Guarantee eligibility
EQUINE NZ Certificate in Equine Skills Level 2 and 3 NCEA Level 1 and 2 SPORT & RECREATION NZ Certificate in Foundation Skills (in Sport, Recreation and Coaching context) Level 2, NCEA Level 1 and 2 EMERGE NZ Certificate in Foundation Skills Level 1 and 2 NCEA Level 1 HOSPITALITY NZ Certificate in Hospitality Level 2 NCEA Level 1 and 2
comcol.ac.nz Comcol North Canterbury 140 East Belt, Rangiora fourteen
03 313 5874 | 029 770 5423 info.nc@comcol.ac.nz
“your best move” Homes across Canterbury have been selling at a whopping average of 32.12% above RV! Now is a great time to sell your property! We will achieve you the BEST sale price and: • We will pay $1200 for a removalist to help you shift • We will pay $500 towards a cleaner when you move out • We will provide $600 worth of marketing to promote your property
limerealestate.co.nz | 0508 call lime Lime Real Estate Ltd Licensed REA 2008 | Free Call 0508 2255 5463
Data sourced from REINZ for the months of June & July 2021. Lime Real Estate takes no responsibility for the accuracy of this data. This statistic excludes rural properties, bare land and properties with no current RV. T’s & C’s apply: limerealestate/readysetgo
10 YE ARS O F T H E O B S E RV E R This month the Observer has been operating for 10 years, and we are continuing to be relevent in an ever changing digital world, having had exciting growth in distribution to 5,500 copies over the last few years. Here is what our customers are saying..
“As a small business we need to be very diligent on our advertising spend and actually see return on investment. With our recent advertising campaigns, The Observer has been outstanding delivering our message to new and existing customers . The industry experience that Bruce brings to the process has made our advertising more effective and we love the feel of the magazine that resonates with our values. It’s a great read to boot !” Miles and Tracy from the Feedshack & feedmypet.co.nz
IF YOU HAVE AN EVENT OR BUSINESS THAT YOU NEED PROMOTING PLEASE CONTACT US AT
info@oxfordoberver.co.nz www.schnurrbartdesignandpublishing.co.nz OR CALL 0800 627 378 37
nineteen
Mike Hart Principal/Tumuaki
Update
STEAM Challenge Bucket Tower
Senior Outdoor Education
This term the students in Explore BH/DH took part in a STEAM challenge. The brief was to design and build a load bearing tower that includes a suspended bucket. Each group was given the following items to build their bucket tower with: 20 straws, 1 paper cup, 1 metre of masking tape, 1 metre of string and scissors. There were a few criteria about the bucket tower The bucket: • must hold weight ( a dice) • can be secured to the tabletop or floor • must swing freely from the structure • must be at least 3cm from the tabletop or ground The students spent time planning and designing their tower. Once they had decided on a plan they then went on to the building stage and testing stage. After all the groups had built their towers, we came together to share. Each group tested to see how many dice their tower could hold. We discussed what worked well, what were our challenges and how we worked as a team. Check out some of the wonderful creations
Despite missing a significant number of our snowsports lessons the Senior Outdoor Education class continue to work away at Porters to improve their snowboarding skills, demonstrating great commitment to their learning.
By Bec Hart
Returning from a nation-wide lock down led to a very focused transition for our students back to school. We have continued our theme of "connect" before "content", which is a deliberate plan and focuses strongly on relationships and check-ins with our tauira (students), before jumping straight into new learning. These connections are developed through learning and discussion porowhita or circles. As part of our positive behaviour for schools model (PB4L), we make use of restorative circles. PB4L Restorative Circles are used to build class communities, develop positive relationships, and provide opportunities for effective teaching and learning. They foster calmer, more focused classrooms. Within a circle, all participants share responsibility for maintaining a positive and inclusive learning environment based on trust and on reaching a consensus about how things should be. Circles provide the opportunity to speak and contribute without interruption, pressure, or fear of criticism.
by Emma Don
They offer a platform for members of the class community to share their stories, to feel heard and understood, and to connect with one another (PB4L Restorative Practices). Once strong "connections" take place we can successfully focus on "content". We have been particularly impressed with the motivation demonstrated by our senior students as they focus on their academic goals. The perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity our students have shown, like many across the country, is encouraging as these young people develop into our future leaders.
PROUD SPONSOR OF THE 2021
e n t r ie s ! S T IL L o p e n Categories this year include: Years 1 - 6 Years 7 - 13 Adults
Agriculture & Farming Dreams & Nightmares or OPEN Geometrics or OPEN
Family/Adults Light it Up (Fluro/LED/etc.)
NEW DATE & VENUE Saturday 27 November
MainPower Stadium, Rangiora For more info or an entry form please email:
northcanterburywearablearts@gmail.com MAIN PRIZE SPONSOR
WITH THANKS TO
enterprise north canterbury
52 Bay Road Oxford
03 312 4197
info@oxford.school.nz
Te wiki o te Māori by Georgia Fogarty
Tēnā koutou Last month New Zealand celebrated Te wiki o te Māori in honour of our country’s identity and heritage. In light of this national celebration staff and students at Oxford Area School took part in a number of activities to celebrate the Māori language and culture. Staff and students got the opportunity to learn new kupu, traditional Māori games and waiata. Over lunchtime on Wednesday students from both the junior and senior school got to learn the traditional Māori game of Ki o Rahi, which is a combination of Netball, Handball and Tag Rugby.
In the senior school Mr Moore worked with his learning mentor group to unpack a Māori whakatauki (proverb, that represents the wisdom of which guides the Māori culture) and made it their own.
Kupu Kupu is an interactive, fun way to learn te reo Māori. You take a photo of an everyday object and the app gives you the te reo Māori translation, including pronunciation.
During the week many of the classes in the junior school learnt and sung new Māori waiata, including the new Six60 song Pepeha and learnt new kupu that they could use on a daily basis at home and school. Mr S took a group of Year 4-6 students over to the woodwork room and helped them to make their own Māori pendants. It was awesome to see students getting some hands-on experience.
To finish off the week our Year 1-6 students participated in a school wide scavenger hunt. They were tasked with finding pictures of objects and animals around the school and writing down what their Māori name was. Our students were all super engaged and showed great teamwork working together with different age groups to find all 21 Māori words. It is always fun to learn a new language to help you get started. Here are some great apps that will help with your journey.
www.facebook.com/oxfordarea
Air New Zealand have also made their app that they use to train their flight attendants available to the public. It has a range of interactive features including audio learning and the ability to create a mihimihi, or introduction and share the user's journey in te reo Māori. The airline's Cultural Development Manager Henare Johnson says the app is designed to help beginners feel confident with pronunciation and expand their Māori language vocabulary, just as it did for airline staff. The app is called Kia rere and can be found on the apple store and google play. Noho ora mai Georgia Fogarty and the team at Oxford Area School.
http://www.oxford.school.nz/
Quality Bespoke GLASSHOUSES
Womersleys W o m e r s l e ys
POTTING MIX, COMPOST AND FERTILISER AVAILABLE. ALSO AN ORGANIC RANGE IN STOCK. SEEDS AND GARDENING TOOLS, IRRIGATION & WATERING SUPPLIES..
from
$5880
• Machinery Repairs • Lathe Work • Crane Work
• Welding • Design • Hydraulic Hose Service
Our glasshouses are pre built to your needs and delivered complete to your property. Constructed from solid timber we also have two standard stock sizes to choose from. Talk to trade qualified Joiner Brent about your Glasshouse Small building Raised garden bed Garden structure needs today.
phone 027 6060 797 email imbrent50@gmail.com
YOUR ONE STOP HARDWARE STORE 82 High Street, Oxford
p - 03 312 4521
HOURS Mon – Fri 8.00am - 5.00pm Saturday 9.00am - 1.00pm e - admin@womersleys.co.nz www.womersleys.co.nz
CHALLENGING THE IMPOSSIBLE
1.5 - 30 ton Excavators ~ Heavy Transporter Hire. Shelter Belt Removal ~ Stump Removal ~ Root Raking. River Protection ~ Drainage ~ Site Works. Truck & Trailer Hire ~ Shingle Supplies. Driveways ~ Farm water schemes - Pipe laying of Alkathene & PE up to 180mm Mulcher - up to 150mm on 14t digger. Carparks and driveways. Forestry - logging, sales, full clean up. Grader ~ Roller ~ Bulldozer Wheel Digger – Curle Contracting Ltd – A Dedicated team, producing Quality work to enhance both the community and the environment. MOBILE 027 508 2240
EMAIL Rob rob@curlecontracting.co.nz Office admin@curlecontracting.co.nz twenty two
ADDRESS 5601 West Coast Road RD 1 Springfield www.curlecontracting.co.nz
OXFORD CLUB EST - 1887
OXFORD CLUB
160 High Street Oxford | Phone 312 4411 | www.oxfordclub.co.nz
BAR | BOTTLESTORE + GAMING ROOM Open from 11am Daily
TAKEAWAYS
SUNDAY - THURSDAY 5:00pm - 8:00pm FRIDAY & SATURDAY 5:00pm - 9:00pm
RESTAURANT
FRIDAY - SATURDAY - SUNDAY from 5:30pm
OXFORD CLUB YOUR SOCIAL HUB JOIN TODAY FOR JUST $35 OR $17.50 IF OVER 60 (valid until 31/8/22)
FANTASTIC FACILITIES, REASONABLE PRICES AND GREAT COUNTRY HOSPITALITY TWO BARS WITH DART BOARDS, BIG SCREENS FOR ALL THE LIVE SPORTING ACTION 3 POOL & 1 SNOOKER TABLE TWO TAB PODS AND TRACKSIDE TV GAMING ROOM (12 MACHINES) FAMILY FRIENDLY RESTAURANT TAKEAWAYS OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 5PM - KIWI FISH & CHIPS & BURGERS BOTTLE STORE OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 11AM
SECTIONS TO JOIN POOL - DARTS - OUTDOOR & INDOOR BOWLS - CARDS - GOLF DARTS - CLAYBIRDS - VINTAGE PLOUGHING - RACING - TRAVEL Check out our website www.oxfordclub.co.nz subscribe to our newsletter and like our facebook page for more information on our live shows and upcoming events & promotions twenty three
trick or treat this. this.
by Candice Breeze
Since 2016 kids from Oxford gather together to go trick or treating in Oxford’s annual Trick or Treat. Last year they had over 60 houses participate with hundreds of people roaming the streets to celebrate in the festivities. Houses go all out, with some making fake graveyards, others making scary alleyways and even a haunted house! Organiser of the annual event, Matt Punter, hopes this year will go ahead with the current alert levels. “The level 2 rules on holding events like this are very unclear. With mask wearing mandatory for kids over 12, it could limit or challenge the type of costumes,” says Punter. Of course plans are still being made with the hope that in hopes we go to level one before Halloween. People are being asked to register and plan their scare houses for this year’s event. The town that Punter used to live in ran a trick or treat every year and it was always a great night. When he moved to Oxford he decided to bring the tradition with him and hasn’t looked back. “Every family has their own stories of walking the streets with their friends and family. We like seeing everyone turn up in costume, meeting new people and having a great time,” says Punter. If you’d like to participate in the Trick or Treat extravaganza this year, head to Trick or Treat Oxford on Facebook or email trickortreatoxford@gmail.com. To take part as a trick or treater, simply plan your costume and cross your fingers and toes for Level 1.
twenty four
halloween crafts for this spooky season by Amy Riach
With the start of October comes the start of spooky season, which means black cats and broomsticks, and everything Halloween. But there is more to decorate than simply costumes, and while I can’t make any promises, some of these cute crafts might even call for chocolate.
YARN SPIDER WEBS AND BALLOON PUMPKINS Cobwebbed corners, home to spiders in all their terrifying multitudes, are the staple feature in any haunted house. But as infestation is usually best avoided, spiderwebs made from balloons and string are a much better idea when it comes to decorating. They can still get a little messy though, so this might not be one for the kitchen table. First, blow up all your balloons to about half full, and then fill a plastic bowl with large amounts of PVA glue. This will definitely take far more glue than it should, so however much you think you need, it’s probably safe to double it. You can then soak your string in the glue, and start to wind the yarn around the balloon. Allow the string to dry overnight, and the next morning pop the balloon inside and decorate the web with spiders! Now if you’re anything like me, and also have a (very healthy) fear of all that resembles arachnid, you can also try using coloured string to make an orange pumpkin version. Decorate with pipe cleaners, and if you want to try for a Jack O’ Lantern look, remember that googly eyes work wonders.
POM POM GARLAND The October version of bunting, woollen garlands are fun and easy to make, and this pom-pom version features a ghost, a pumpkin, and a spider. For the ghost, begin as you would a standard pom-pom, by winding the white wool around a rectangular card. Old cereal boxes work well for this, and you can adjust the size of your pom-pom by changing the size of the card you cut out. Remember the more that you wind the fluffier your pom-pom will be, so once you are happy with the amount of wool you’ve added, slide the ring of wool off the cardboard and tie it securely around the middle. You can then cut the loops, and fold your ghost in half so that all the cut ends are together at the bottom. Form the head by tying a length of wool around the pom-pom a few centimeters from the top; double knots here are definitely best! Then if you’re a fan of googly eyes go ahead and add some, and to make your ghost a few friends all you need is some different coloured wool. Use black for the spiders, and you can make the fluffy bodies in much the same way. Rather than folding the ring of wool in half to form a ghostly tail, trim all the ends to make a round pom-pom, and cut and fold some pipe cleaners to create 8 creepy legs. Green pipe cleaners can also be used on the pumpkins, and after making the round orange pom-poms, use them to form a stem, and maybe a few leaves as well. Then you can string all your fluffy decorations up, and treat your garland as tinsel with character.
MUMMY MASON JARS Mason jars are certainly all the range, but they don’t tend to look quite like this. These mummified jars make for clean and easy Jack O’ Lanterns, with all of the spooky light up effect, and no messy pumpkin innards. Simply peel the labels off any clear jars, and then get to wrapping. You can use any thin gauze to form the mummy’s bandages, but if you’re not keen on raiding the first aid box, then strips of white paper will work just as well. Hot glue is best for securing the spooky wrapping to your jar, but remember to leave a few gaps in the bandages to let the light shine brightly. Then you can add a pair of googly eyes, and yes, they’ve definitely been mentioned before. Twice even. But never underestimate the power of googly eyes when it comes to all things Halloween. Once the eyes are added, set up a tea light in your newly mummified jar, and turn out the lights! Regular flame lit candles are perfect, but if you’re planning on leaving the jars unattended, battery operated tea lights work great as well.
CHOCOLATE DIPPED STRAWBERRY GHOSTS Chocolate dipped strawberries have long been favorites at Christmas, but that’s not to say we can’t make them at all times of year. So this October, why not try for a Halloween twist on the seasonal classic. To make these ghostly versions, use white chocolate for dipping, and don’t worry if your melted chocolate gets a little messy! That only gives your ghosts a spooky trail. Once your strawberries are coated, you can add the face using chocolate buttons, mini ones for the eyes, and regular ones for the screaming mouth. It’s best to add the buttons flat side down, before the chocolate cools and solidifies. Then all your newly expressional strawberries can be left to harden in the fridge. And yes, it is tempting to eat them while the chocolate is still soft. And yes, they will be far better once you let them set!
WITCHES HAT CUPCAKE TOPPERS By the pricking of my thumbs, something wicked this way comes! Complete with ominous chants, witches are a given at Halloween, and it’s even better when their trademark costumes come in the chocolate form. Though it’s hard to imagine the witches of Macbeth donning pointy hats and broomsticks, the witches at Halloween are committing to the whole ensemble, and these cupcake toppers add a little bit of the spooky spirit to your baking. First the cupcakes; you can make them, buy them, or use a baking mix; it’s really up to you. But whatever cupcakes you decide to decorate, make sure they’re stone cold before you make any attempt to add the icing! The toppers themselves take just five minutes to make, and you’ll need oreos, chocolate kisses, and some coloured icing. Start by splitting the oreos in half, and scraping out the frosting in the centre. This can be discarded, but eaten is probably more of a realistic expectation. You can then use a little orange icing to attach the chocolate kisses to the centre of each cookie, and give each hat a coloured brim. Decorate with sprinkles, and add the witchy toppers to your cupcakes. twenty five
FOR ALL YOUR FREIGHT REQUIREMENTS
FREIGHT + STOCK + GENERAL + LOGS + SILAGE SPREADING + BULK TIPPERS + CONTAINER + WEIGHBRIDGE We cart almost any cargo type around central Canterbury region, and most of our deliveries are made same day. We also transport stock around the South Island and beyond.
CALL US NOW 03 312 4016 116 HAREWOOD RD - OXFORD
• Dozers • Graders • Dump Trucks and Trucks • Rollers • Diggers with Power Clamp • Mole Ploughing • Land Clearing/Development
• Effluent Ponds • Ponds and Dams • Root Raking • Tree Felling • Stump Removal • Tracks and Driveways • Dairy Conversions
• AP20 • AP40 • AP60 • Boulders • Silage Pits etc • Rotten Rock • Dairy & Silage pad capping
~ SITE SPECIFIC SAFETY PLANS, INSURANCE AND PUBLIC LIABILITY AT EVERY SITE ~
Phone ALEX on 027 295 6794 twenty six
cocktail time . with Sean Juniper
ELDERFLOWER BLISS INGREDIENTS 30ml Elderflower Liqueur 30ml Vodka 4-5 dashes Bitters (Kings or Angostura) 15ml Lemon Juice Lots of ice Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic Slice of Lemon Sprig of mint (optional)
METHOD Add all the ingredients, except the tonic, to a mixing glass over ice Stir to mix Strain into your glass of choice Top with Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic Garnish with a slice of lemon and enjoy Nb, Jazz it up a bit and use the fresh juice from a Lemonade Lemon.
ASHLEY INDUSTRIAL SERVICES LTD Sawmill & Customised Timber Packaging | Selling Direct to the Public 8 Mill Road, Oxford | Hours: Mon to Thu 8am-5pm - Fri 8am - 4pm - Sat 8am - 12noon
FIREWOOD SPECIAL DUE TO POPULAR DEMAND THIS SPECIAL HAS BEEN EXTENDED UNTIL THE 31ST OF OCTOBER.
1.8m3 Bin $65.00 per bin + GST
Buy 3 Bins and get the 4th FREE Buy 6 Bins – FREE DELIVERY $325.00 ( greater Oxford area )
+ GST
03 312 3341
email admin@ais.co.nz website www.ashleyindustrial.co.nz twenty seven
Oxford Union Church
g ets makeov er by Candice Breeze
Over the last few months, the Oxford Union Church has been refurbished from the inside out. The roof has been replaced, and the entire church has been repainted, inside and out. The original large wooden doors that opened into the church service area have been replaced with a much lighter sliding door. The original kitchen has been replaced and modernised with fresh paint and new cabinets and oven. A new, lighter sliding door provides access to the lounge area. With a fully functional kitchen inside, the church are now able to hire out the space for family occasions, functions or meetings. A new door allows members to access the toilet from inside, rather than having to go around to the back of the church to use the toilet. “The church was getting tired, and hadn’t been looked after over the years, so we decided right it’s time for an upgrade!” says Ken Walker, Parish Clerk. A church in Horrellville was sold and provided the money to finance the refurbishment. If anyone is interested in seeing the renovations of the church, you are welcome to visit. If you are interested in hiring out the church you can contact Ken on 3121464 for further details.
The Union Church would like to thank the following people for their hard work on renovating the church:
BRIAN NORTON DALE ATKINS GN PLUMBING AND DRAINAGE PAINTSMART LTD MILLBROOK KITCHENS ROOFLINE ROOFING CHCH
twenty eight
Fresh, real milk direct to you at the farm dispenser
Real Milk from our happy, free-range, grass fed cows.
Contracting
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
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
Specialising in Australian Hardwood
>
>
Decking & Pergolas Landscaping Sleepers Hardwood Mantles Large Beams Milling to Order Re-sawing of Beams Firewood Supplies
EARTHWORKS? EXCAVATIONS? www.bayphil.co.nz CALL BAYDON 027 405 9910
Foundations Retaining Walls Landscaping Irrigation Excavation Waterline Excavation Sewer Excavation Trenching Tracks & Driveways Land Clearance Demolition Lifestyle Blocks Drainage Tip Truck 5-20 Tonne Diggers
03 312 4531 or 027 684 3981 twenty nine
MASON’S
DRAPERY BETTY | BASICS is back in Darfield! A great casual range at an affordable price.
Spring into Spring
Sizes 10 - 22
Come and see what we have !
2 McMillan Street, Dar�eld Phone: 03 318 8734
HOURS : Monday ~ Friday 10.00am ~ 3.30pm & Saturday 10.00am ~12.30
Exhibition
Visit our collaborative co-working office. Casual, permanent desks and meeting room for hire. Book online! Level 1, 210 High Street, Rangiora
Guest artist Adrienne Pavelka
Fri 29 Oct to Sun 31Oct www.nichesharedspace.co.nz
* Medical Grade Facials * Peels & Skin Treatments * Waxing * Eyelash and Brows
Beauty D
ebbie
H awk
in
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
HORSE RIDING
* Semi-private lessons available Monday to Thursday * Horse riding courses every weekend * School Holiday courses. * Horse treks departing 2pm daily * Complete beginners to advanced riders welcome KOWHAI RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL OF RIDING LTD
711 Island Rd OXFORD Ph 3124309 or 0211619964 www.kowhai.co.nz thirty
approximately 350 original works for sale water colour, pastel, acrylic, oil etc. 10am - 4pm daily
A&P Showgrounds NEW VENUE Rangiora Ashley St Rangiora
House of
s
19 Goodwood Close Rangiora
G
phone
03 310 6139 021 024 19237
ODWOO O
Entry $2 Children Free
D
by Appointment only
Follow us for the latest news & info
Lorinda Harrington
Independant Registered Financial Advisor
M 027 242 3211 E Lorinda@thebroker.co.nz THEBROKER.co.nz
Free Service - Specialising in 1st Home buyers
Yoga
Qigong
Fitness
workout classes
Mondays, Wednesday & Fridays
in Oxford
Gabrielle 027 225 1646
info@taomotion.co.nz
www.taomotion.co.nz
Helping you get back on track KOWHAI CHIROPRACTIC Dr Julianya Jay DC LRCC
559 Greendale Rd, Darfield 7571 | 03 318 8866 or 021 283 8892 kowhaichiro@protonmail.com | kowhaichiropractic.com
Mayoral Update with
Dan Gordon.
I want to start by saying a big thank you to the over 3800 residents who took part in our engagement about the Government’s Three Waters Reform. Ninety five percent of Waimakariri residents who responded want the Council to ‘opt-out’ of the Government’s Three Waters Reform. For those who aren’t aware of the proposal, the Government is pushing for reform of water whereby Council-run water, wastewater and stormwater services will be transferred to four major entities. This is part of a wider push for greater centralisation of public services like health, the Resource Management Act and polytechnics. If the reform goes ahead, Waimakariri District would become part of an entity that covers most of the South Island. Residents expressed concerns to Council about: • Losing local say, knowledge and control on how water services are provided • Rates being used to subsidise upgrades in other areas • Wanting local management and provision of Three Water Services • Appropriate compensation for transfer of community assets • The proposal not taking place alongside the wider Future for Local Government and Resource Management Act (RMA) reforms • The accuracy of the proposed efficiencies behind the proposal for change. The Council has been reviewing the data from the Government and in that process has found a number of issues, and therefore has a number of concerns with the proposal. The position of the Council has been that, based on the limited information presented so far, we do not join the Government’s reform programme at this point. The overwhelming amount of feedback from residents has shown that you have concerns of your own and this helped inform the Councillors and me as we decided on the formal response to give the Government during a special meeting of Council on Tuesday 28 September. The Government required Councils’ feedback on their proposal by the end of September. It’s unclear what the Government’s next steps will be, but we hope the reforms will remain a choice for our community and Council, as previously indicated by the Government. Thanks again for your feedback and for taking part. Proposed District Plan On Saturday 18 September Council notified its Proposed District Plan. Consultation will run until 5pm on Friday 26 November. Notifying the Proposed District Plan helps prepare Waimakariri for future growth. It specifies new and expanded zones and areas for development, protects environmental features, ensures productive use of farmland, and aims to enable our community to grow while retaining its special character. A letter has gone out to all ratepayers with more details. You are able to have a more detailed look on-line and can access the e-Plan on Council’s website (waimakariri.govt.nz). Council staff will also be available to answer questions at the Rangiora Service Centre during business hours or at several ‘Talk to a Planner’ drop-in sessions being held around the District. Please do come along to find out more. If you have any questions please get in contact: developmentplanning@wmk.govt.nz or 0800 965 468 (0800 WMK GOV) We want to know if you think we have it right. Your input to this process will help shape how Waimakariri develops over the coming decades. We look forward to hearing from you and the community. Please provide your feedback by 26 November 2021.
Dan Gordon.
thirty one
oxford & districts Lions Club wins award by Candice Breeze
The Oxford & Districts (ODLC) Lions Club have just received the award for ‘Best New Zealand Lions Hunger Relief Project 2021’. This award was one of several that was awarded from The Lions International, with the main focuses being on: Diabetes, Environment, Childhood Cancer, Hunger Relief and Vision.
SAVE THE DATE Wheels with Wings presented by the Oxford Community Trust and Oxford & District's Lions
29 January 2022
The Oxford Lions made contributions to all of the categories listed. However it was their project with Satisfy Food Rescue that won them the award. Oxford & District Lions Club were not looking for any acknowledgements for this project. “Sheer hard work and commitment produced an outstanding contribution that assisted Satisfy Food Rescue in Kaiapoi in meeting the needs of our wider community,” says Lyndsay Fletcher, Secretary of Oxford & Districts Lions Club. An important part of Oxford Lions is that they are involved in meaningful and deserving projects. They identified a need within North Canterbury and filled that need in collaboration with Satisfy Food Rescue. “The Oxford Lions enjoy working with organisations in assisting them to get their projects or initiatives to a successful conclusion using a hand up approach,” says Lyndsay Fletcher. The Oxford Lions has been working with Satisfy Food Rescue for its second season, including during Covid lockdowns. The Oxford Lions are an absolute success story within our District, if you are interested in being a part of a progressive club, passionate about our community and local environment, please contact the secretary on secretary.odlc@outlook. com as innovation and new ideas will lead to further success.
thirty two
Client Focused, Results Driven For a confidential and obligation free chat about current market conditions or the value of your property, don’t hesitate to give Mark or Karen a call! Mark Terry 027 572 2559 mark.terry@pggwrightson.co.nz New Zealand’s leading rural real estate company
Karen Hennessy 027 967 0186 karen.hennessy@pggwrightson.co.nz
POLICE
EMERGENCY SERVICES Oxford Constable
Mitch Alatalo
Firstly, I would like to thank everyone in the community for all of the hard work they have done to keep our community safe through these demanding, and sometimes unpredictable times. The restrictions have been tough on a lot of people, and I would again just like to say thank you, it has made both Aden’s and my job a lot easier. I know there will still people out there doing it tough. If you know someone in this position, reach out and ask if they are ok. If you don’t feel as though you can speak with them directly, tell a friend or family member who may be able to assist them. There is plenty of assistance out there. I was just looking back on some previous articles and what I had to say, and I laughed a little when I said that winter was behind us. It has been a changeable spring. Hot one minute. Then cold and rainy the next. And the odd bit of wind here and there. So be mindful, and always drive to the conditions. On another note, if anyone is interested in the Oxford Community Patrol, they are always looking for keen new people to join the team. Make yourself known to myself or Aden, and we can point you in the right direction. You are the eyes and ears of the community.
FIRE RESCUE
Thanks again for reading. Be safe. Feel safe.
Well Covid has hit yet again, back to level four then level three just to tip everyone’s lives upside down again. The Brigade was able to respond to emergencies but we were restricted to four people per vehicle masked and gloves on. Vehicle and equipment checks were able to be done each week with restrictions, one on station at a time, and all training and events cancelled. But it is what it is and and we have to do our bit to keep covid away and try to reduce its impact and I’m sure most would feel the same way.
Oxford Chief Fire Officer
Trevor Ealam
During the month the Brigade had nine calls. Two were to assist the Cust Brigade at private smoke alarm activations. Both were false alarms. In our area we attended three private smoke alarm activations, two were false alarms ( faulty equipment ), and one was caused by burnt food, two to assist St John Ambulance, one to a motor vehicle accident, truck versus power pole with no injuries to the occupant and one to a controlled slash burn, no action was required by the brigade. This brings our total calls for the year to fifty five. This months message is; Don’t leave the room when cooking. You must switch off before you walk off. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of house fires.
POLICE - FIRE - AMBULANCE >> DIAL 111
Maarten Trees Ltd
Oxford Butchery
Need advice on your trees??
Farm Fresh Flavour
We do:
Fresh to your Plate
Pruning Thinning Hedge Trimming Stump Grinding Crown lifting and reductions Chipping Tree removals
Retail Quality Meat & Smallgoods Award Winning Old Fashioned Dry-cured Bacon & Ham. From Paddock to Freezer - we can homekill & process your stock ready for the freezer. Bookings essential
Oxford Butchery Ltd 4th Generation Family Butchers
44 Main Street - Oxford
Ph 03 312 4205 | A/H : Ph Shane 03 312 4709 MPI APPROVED
Alec 027 525 5044
alec@maartentrees.co.nz
For Beautifully Handcrafted Books Tessa Warburton
Small Prayer & Reflection Groups Held every 2nd Tuesday at 1.30pm Oxford Church Centre
ALL WELCOME | Call Josie 022 089 8331
Bowen Therapy A Gentle therapy for every body and any age. Contact Johanna Lettink, registered practitioner for 20 years Ph. 312 1316 or 021 269 0371 www.bowtech.com
Chimney Sweep Winters Coming!! Rotary Brush Technology From $70 single story. Book now before the rush 0800-SWEEP ME or 021-0277-1927
www.angelcats.biz
“Thou art My lamp and My light is in thee. Get thou from it thy radiance and seek none other than Me. For I have created thee rich and have bountifully shed My favour upon thee” Baha’u’llah
Bahai.org.nz
Route 72 Cafe Bar Emporium, Cust. Route 72 Emporium, something with a difference for everyone. 1697 Cust Road, Cust. thirty four
2021
recipes + Summer Bounty more Great Reads Gin Range + much An exciting new
INSIDE
Obser ver
the
the
FEBRUARY 2021
MARCH
er
JULY 2021
Mulled wine giveaway Book club | Winter | Fashion reads show + much more
on tour Club more - Cobra much plus
Womersley’s reads look New motivational Five
C A L L T O D AY about your advertising requirements
email -info@oxfordobserver.co.nz
0800 627 378 37
OXFORD DISTRICT
UNION PARISH
Sharing Christ in our Fellowship and Community UNION (METHODIST & PRESBYTERIAN) PARISH SERVICES FOR OCTOBER 2021
ALL SERVICES WILL BE HELD ON SUNDAYS AT 9.30AM AT THE OXFORD UNION CHURCH 3rd October - Communion Service.
Breakfast and lunch, gourmet and delicious. Tuesday to Sunday 9 am to 3pm, coffee to 4 pm.
Obser ver Obser v
r ver Obse
this issue
52 Church Street, Oxford
Phone 312 1452 & 0210 424367 Email: angelcats@xtra.co.nz
the
EVENING MASS Every 1st & 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7pm
& Pet Supplies (ukmax on Trade Me)
this issue
REGULAR SUNDAY MASS: 8.30am
Angel Cats Boarding Cattery
‘Just because a lawyer holds the will, it doesn’t mean they hold the purse strings. Check their fees first.’
INSIDE
Sacred Heart Church, Oxford
ENQUIRIES: Waimakariri Parish Ph: 03 313 6285
www.coolcats.nz
Cheryl Simes
021 701 838 / 03 312 1508 Oxford Local - Nationwide Service
this
St Peter Chanel Catholic Parish
Phone: 03 312 5744 Mob: 027 457 4431 Email: Theresa@coolcats.nz “Time spent with cats is never wasted” 1891 South Eyre Rd
Probate application
- $690* including GST & High Court fee Kiwilaw – www.kiwilaw.co.nz
INSIDE issue
Phone: 03 312 4399/027 419 6311 Email: tessawarburton@gmail.com
Hours: 8am-11am & 4pm-6pm
the
BOOKBINDER • Restoration • Repair • Private Tuition
10th October – Service. 17th October – Service. Salvation Army Service at 6.00pm. 24th October – Service. 31st October – Service.
ALL WELCOME UNION PARISH MINISTER: REV. LAURENCE ENNOR PH: 03 357 4475 (Home) or 027 233 4687 (Mob) PARISH CLERK: KEN WALKER Ph: 03 312 1464
• General/Family Dentistry • Facial Pain • Periodontal Therapy • Minor Oral Surgery • Oral Medicine Specialist • Oral Cancer Detection • Clinicians all New Zealand trained • Super Gold and Community Services Card Discounts Open Monday to Friday 8.30 to 5.30 www.pagdental.com
PAG Silverstream Dental 4/42 Silverstream Boulevard Silverstream 03 925 8003 pagsilverstreamdental@gmail.com
Oxford Community Trust
Social Services The Oxford Community Trust is looking for a new casual team member. This role will include : • • • • •
Family supervision Community work Holiday programme work Youth work Driving
The successful applicant will need to have a full, clean drivers licence, enthusiasm and ability to relate to people of all ages. Flexible with time as some week end or late hours required. If you are interested please contact Jo Ealam, Manager
Online Will Kiwilaw – www.kiwilaw.co.nz
We are planning for the Christmas Wonderland. We would love the support of businesses getting involved and creating displays - it will be a great event for the community after what has been a hard year again.
Yoga ~ Oxford
Thank you to Oxford Area School for their donation from the pyjama day fundraiser - we really appreciate the support of the school in the work for the work we do in the community.
$69
‘Just do it!’
A 75 minute foundational class offering a mix of classical yoga with a flavour of classical tantra. Discover awareness of breath, body & mind. Create space with gentle, slow/flow movement. Invite interoception and awaken to your own unique sound and vibration.
Thank you also to those of you who donate privately - this is much appreciated by us all, and everyone we work with.
When: WEDNESDAY 9.30am
Cost: $80 per term or $10 per casual class Also available ~ prenatal yoga
To book Text Cindy on 0212969819 or email maitriyoganz@gmail.com
ank You ers Fund To Our Fab 4
Support and enjoy your local Market
Every Sunday 9am - 12pm
Main Street, Oxford
EFT Ava POS ilabl e
Oxford Community Trust
FOOD ~ FUN &
is responsive to the physical, social, emotional,and financial needs of individuals, families and groups of people within the community of Oxford and Districts.
AMBIENCE
You’ll Find it all at the Oxford Farmers Market
Follow us on Facebook to keep up to date with upcoming events Email: info@oxfordfarmersmarket.co.nz
www.oxfordfarmersmarket.co.nz
dipl. NSF , CCNM/NZSE, RMT-MNZ
Marina Vermaat 64 High Street Oxford 7430
03 312 4731
37 Main Street, Oxford 03 312 3006
027 311 1140 thirty five
THE BUSINES Schnurrbart
Design & Publishing
A DV E RT I S I N G
Terms and Conditions
• All Advertising is to be paid by the 20th of the month the invoice is issued in. • Accounts more than one month overdue will be passed on to our debt recovery team, advertising resuming once the account has been cleared.
S H E LT E R B E LT T R I M M I N G LT D
• All fees and charges incurred due to non or late payment are fully recoverable from you, and will be added to your total debt.
• Experienced Operator • Power Line Clearance • SiteWise Certified
• By accepting our product or services you are deemed to have accepted our payment terms.
Email: hedgework@yahoo.com Ph: 027 474 3088
• We reserve the right to forward your overdue account to a debt collection company, & register the debt with the credit agencies. • All Rates are PER ISSUE and exclude GST unless otherwise stated.
ELMWOoD AG
• ROUND BALING •
• CULTIVATION •
(Mowing through to Cartage)
(Full Culitvation Service)
Balage 1m - 1.5m Hay 1m - 1.6m
6m Roller Drill & 6m Direct Drill
Rut Buster for HIRE PHONE: Bill 027 485 8012 ~ EMAIL: oxfarm@hotmail.co.nz
4 Trash 2016 LTD
Rubbish Collection Services General household rubbish collection servicing Oxford ,Rangiora, Kaiapoi and surrounding rural areas We are a local business who appreciate local support thirty six
Large 240 litre wheelie bins Multiple Collection options Weekly - Fortnightly - 4 weekly 6 weekly - 8 weekly - Casual phone or email for a quote
Graham & Kim
T : 03 312 4788 E : 4trash@xtra.co.nz
www.4trash.co.nz
S D I R E C TO RY WE OFFER:
Call me today to discuss all your hedge & tree trimming needs...
Nick McDonald Ph: 027 206 1149 or 3125 313
• Shelterbelt & Hedge Tree Trimming • Large Farms, Orchards, & Lifestyle Blocks • Locally Owned & Operated • Servicing North Canterbury • Full Insurance Cover • Comprehensive Health & Safety Systems • Power Line Clearance Operator
NEED GLASS?
We can help! Visit our website or give us a call! Retrofit Double Glazing
Frameless Showers Repairs & More
Pet doors Splashbacks Mirrors
Locally owned and operated 03 318 3003 | admin@hunterglass.co.nz | www.hunterglass.co.nz
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
One stop shop for your home and property maintenance.
• 24 Metre self propelled spray unit • Auto steer & Auto section control • GPS proof of placement Available • Registered Approved handler
LIQUID NITROGEN AVAILABLE NOW
Al - Mows starts giving you your life back. Don’t know where to start or how to do it?
Gardens & Lawns doing their own thing - not your thing?
Property and / or House Maintenance falling behind?
No time for life on a lifestyle block?
CALL IN THE EXPERT No job too big or small - Regular maintenance or one off work.
Call Al Today!
0212 499 495 |
CALL NICK RAYMOND 0272838571 Email nick@waimakspraying.co.nz
ajdavies62@gmail.com
Serving the North Canterbury Area
“Totally Dependable”
Phone: 0800 63 63 00
Rural - Dairy New Housing Heating & Ventilation Service & Maintenance Commercial Refrigeration Solar Hotwater and PV thirty seven
THE BUSINES Oxford Screen Hire On Farm Gravel Screening
Come and talk to the real experts
• Sales, servicing and repair of all major brands of computers • • Networking, etc. for home, farm and business • • Drop into our workshop or call us for a home/site visit • We won’t baffle you with science, just plain simple honest advice 216 High Street, Rangiora
Monday-Friday 9am-5.30pm, Sat 10am-2pm
Email: rangiora@ipc.co.nz
Ph: 03 313 4567
www.ipc.co.nz
Phone Roy 022 043 7834 - Email royhill517@yahoo.co.nz
Brian Norton
Craftsman Builder - Over 25 Years Experience Ph 021 880037 or 03 312 4911 AH Architectural & Residential Builds - Farm Buildings - Own Build at 184 High Street F O R A L L YO U R L I Q U I D WA S T E R E M O VA L REQUIREMENTS
Gavin Newick GN Plumbing and Drainage Ltd Plumbing:
Sewer & Stormwater:
• New Builds • Maintenance • Alterations • Dripping Taps • Hot Water Cylinder Replacements
• New Installations • Repairs • Alterations • Septic Tanks • Blocked Drains • Water Blasting
. Insurance Repairs .
CRAFTSMAN PLUMBER & DRAINLAYER
CALL TODAY... After Hours:
03 312 1785
Ph: 03 312 4476 Mob: 027 4969 256 Septic Tanks, Grease Traps, Dairy Sumps, Blocked Drains Maintenance Reports Email: speechly@xtra.co.nz
WAIMAK
HOMEKILL
Family Business
PROCESSING OF BEEF, SHEEP, PIGS, WILD GAME & SMALL GOODS
For Needs Forall allyour yourElectrical Electrical Wiring Needs New NewHousing Housing&&Alterations Alterations Sheds, Sheds,Barns Barns&&Farm Farm Maintenance Maintenance Lights, Lights,Plugs Plugs&& Spas Spas Phones Phones 027243 2436696 6696 027 FreeQuotes Quotes Free 3124990 4990 CompetitiveRates Rates Competitive 312
Bookings are essential
We can arrange to have your animals home killed - Sheep dropoff available
Jason & Julie Ph: 03 312 6227 Email: info@waimakhomekill.co.nz
www.waimakhomekill.co.nz
Roy Hill Contracting Phone Roy 022 043 7834
Email royhill517@yahoo.co.nz
THE JOINER
For all your Solid timber Joinery needs
Owner + operator of a small local workshop
Call Brent on 027 6060 797 email imbrent50@gmail.com thirty eight
Earth Moving • • • • • • • •
Irrigation Dams Water Races / Cleaning Roads / Farm lanes Cow Lanes Building Foundations Subdivisions Land Clearing Pipe Laying / Tree Ripping
Silage & Agriculture • • • •
Silage Harvesting Claas 8m mower with groupers 56 cubic metre loader wagon 12 tonne Hyundai loader with buck rake • 9m heavy roller • Cultivation • Seed Drilling
Plant Hire • 6m giant disc • 5 Tonne tow behind vibrating roller • Road Sweeper • 2 x Tow behind 25 cubic yard scoops
S D I R E C TO RY
NEED A PLUMBER
RON EALAM BUILDER for all your Building ding
Call us now for fast friendly service Get your problems sorted out quick smart - on time!! Local family Plumbing Business
requirements r
Phone for a
New Homes Additions & Alterations Farm Buildings Concrete Laying Painting & Paper hanging Experienced Builder
FREE
quote now
027 242 4907
T 03 312 1280 | M 021 898 380 E eliteplumbingchch@gmail.com FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING NEEDS
Maintenance Plumbing • New Housing • Bathroom Alterations Logfires • Hot Water Cylinders • Spouting & Flashings Pump Replacement & Repair
Fast, Friendly Service, All Work Guaranteed
We Specialise in superior fencing craftmanship which adds long term value to your property investment. Fencing in the greater Canterbury area.
Aaron McCartney • Free Ph: 0508 44EVER • Ph: 03 310 2137 A/H: 027 3669 091 • Email: plumber_27@yahoo.co.nz
www.4everplumbing.co.nz
High Country Canvas Specialists in Canvas Manufacturing
New Work & Repairs Welcome. Don’t Pack & Store It All Away Get your Repairs Done Now & avoid the Spring Rush! Darrin Lord 03 312 5025 or 027 238 1624 Tax Returns Payroll GST Returns Annual Accounts Rental Returns
• • • • • • • • •
FREE QUOTES
Small & Large scale Fencing Sheep & Deer Fencing Sheep, Deer & Cattle Yards Dairy Conversions Horse Fencing Corrals, Yards & Arenas Post Driving Post & Rail Fences Entranceways
• • • • • • • •
Wooden Gates Lifestyle Blocks Sub - Divisions Boundary Fences Vineyards Chicken Runs Sheds Animal Runs
Steve is available to help with your
Planning and Design
Summerfield Fencing Ltd Jeanette Graves Sharon Stewart
021 853 769 027 241 6345
www.smallbusinesssolutions.co.nz info@smallbusinesssolutions.co.nz
PHONE: 03 312 4747 MOBILE : 027 312 4747
www.summerfieldfencing.co.nz summerfieldfencing@xtra.co.nz
thirty nine
PROVIDING INNOVATIVE AND CUSTOMER FOCUSED
AGRICULTURAL SERVICES
CULTIVATION & DRILLING
BALING HAY & BALEAGE
BULK SILAGE
TRANSPORT
We take care of all your groundwork needs from ploughing to precision drilling
We’ve got a bale size and shape to suit your needs
We’ve got the gear to get the job done once and done right
We can cart anything from bulk to bales you name it
at Oxford Ag we go the extra mile to do the job once. FOR ANY ENQUIRIES CONTACT BALING - CULTIVATION MANAGER DAN BROOKER ACCOUNT MANAGER
027 756 3743 DAVE KNOWLES 021 275 2432
YARD 106 HAREWOOD ROAD OXFORD
SILAGE MANAGER
ADAM GREEN
TRANSPORT MANAGER AARON ROSS
027 374 6357 021 766 384