The Local Rag

POUNAMU WHAREKAWA

This month's cover star, Pounamu is an emerging young artist who has a number of big-name commissions under their belt.

MATARIKI – TE MĀTAHI O TE TAU

Matariki at the Raglan Old School Arts Centre will combine art, kapa haka, kai, mau rākau and waiata to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and plan for the future.

WHĀINGAROA TALENT FACTORY 2023

ISSUE #793

HARBOUR VIEW HOTEL Raglan

14 Bow Street

LOCAL RAG.

WRITERS

Janine Jackson | Edith Symes | Katie Lowes | Ruby Gibbs READ

The Raglan Chornicle would like to make a correction to an article published on May 11, 2023 stating that Catherine Lee won the 'Biggest Feijoa' award at the Raglan Crop Swap Pumpkin Festival. This information was incorrect, the winner of the award was Heather Burke. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.

Raglan Ink Ltd home of the Raglan Chronicle & LOCAL RAG.

Office Open by appointment 15 Wainui Rd, Raglan Post: P.O. Box 234, Raglan Email: info@raglanchronicle.co.nz

Advertising & Articles The advertising and editorial content deadline will be Monday at 12pm week of issue.

DISCLAIMER

Opinions and views expressed in the Raglan Chronicle do not necessarily represent those held by the Editors or Publishers. Every care will be taken in the preparation and placement of submitted material but the Editors/Publishers shall not be liable for errors or omissions or subsequent effects due to the same. It is the submitters responsibility to ensure material is not libelous or defamatory. The Editors/Publishers reserve the right to abridge, alter or decline any material submitted to the Raglan Chronicle to meet the constraints of space and/or maintain a reasonable standard of language and decorum.

LOCATION OF DEFIBRILLATORS IN RAGLAN

Defibrillators can save lives in the event of an accident or medical emergency. Here is where they are located in Raglan.  24 HOURS: St John Raglan (11 Wainui Road)

Raglan Club (22 Bow Street)

Raglan Holiday Park (61 Marine Parade)

The Institute of Awesome (5B Whaanga Road)

Ranmgitahi /The Hut ( 29 Rangitahi Road)

Raglan Surf Life Saving Club (Ngarunui Beach) (downstairs - outside wall) public can access 24/7 when they phone 111 for the  lock combination

WORK HOURS:

Raglan Gym (32 Bow Street)

Raglan Medical Centre (9 Wallis Street)

Raglan Police (3 Wi Neera Street)

Xtreme Zero Waste (186 Te Hutewai Road)

Raglan Surf Life Saving Club (Ngarunui Beach)

Raglan Coastguard (Raglan Wharf)

Camp Raglan (578 Wainui Road) e-Coast

MATARIKI – TE MĀTAHI O TE TAU

BY JANINE JACKSON

Matariki festivities at the Raglan Old School Arts Centre will combine art, kapa haka, kai, mau rākau and waiata to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and plan for the future.

Led by local artists Dallas Mihinui and Jason Messant, the celebrations will include a gallery installation opening Friday 14 July featuring art works telling the stories of the seven whētu (stars) of the Matariki constellation. The art pieces will be sold as a silent auction.

“It’s going to be an awesome celebration and one of our main goals is to show people what each individual star represents.”

It was art that brought Dallas and Jason together when Jason was still at school as Dallas was teaching art.

“Jason would have been about 15 and he was one of my first art students when I was doing a workshop in Hamilton.”

Dallas has taught art to youth for 18 years and he loves engaging in community projects. Raglan-based mixed media artist Jason Messant works at the Wharf Gallery under the mentorship of Fatu Feu’u.

“Jason and I have historically worked together on a number of projects. We've always gelled in terms of fusing our thoughts. For this exhibition we’ve come up with a process which will be a fusion of mixed media.”

Dallas says celebrating Matariki was not a part of his childhood but around 20 years ago he became aware of it and even named his daughter after the constellation.

PAINT A BOWL FOR MATARIKI

Although Matariki was widely celebrated before the arrival of Europeans in New Zealand, it was only in 2020 that the government announced its intention to establish a public holiday, which was held for the first time last year.

The date of the Matariki public holiday will shift each year to align with the Māori lunar calendar. It will be observed on a Friday, usually in late June or early July.

As well as heralding the New Year for Māori, Matariki is a significant time of the year for Māori as it signals the end of harvest season.

Dallas says a community celebration on Friday 21 July will be an opportunity to come together to mark this important time of the year for Aotearoa.

Hosted by MC Gavin Dempsey, the evening will begin with a mihi whakatau at 5pm and continue with a Raglan Area School kapa haka performance, a Raglan Kindergarten kai fundraiser, music and waiata by Wiremu McCarthy and a mau rākau (weapons) demonstration by Jeremy Murray.

With a talent for playing what suits the vibe of the occasion and creating positive energy, Dallas says Wiremu’s music is uplifting and authentic.

Mau rākau specialist and youth consultant Jeremy has been passionate about traditional Māori forms of healing and medicine along with traditional forms of exercise and Māori weaponry for the better part of 15 years.

Dallas says Jeremy will also provide the opportunity for people to have a go with the mau rākau.

ABOUT MATARIKI

Celebrate Matariki at a bowl painting workshop run by the Clay Shed. Paint two dip bowls to kindle the spirit of sharing food during the darkest time of the year.

These workshops normally cost $40 per person but with support from Raglan Naturally they are only $20 per person. Join other community members in creating a lasting souvenir to be used to share kai with friends and whaanau.

Contact info@raglanartscentre. co.nz to register

Matariki (the Pleiades) signals the Māori New Year. For Māori, the appearance of Matariki heralds a time of remembrance, joy and peace.

It is a time for communities to come together and celebrate.

Matariki is an abbreviation of ‘Ngā Mata o te Ariki Tāwhirimātea (‘The eyes of the god Tāwhirimātea’). God of the wind, Tāwhirimātea, was so angry when his siblings separated their parents, Ranginui the sky father and Papatūānuku the earth mother, that he tore out his eyes and threw them into the heavens.

Jason Messant and Dallas Mihinui at the Raglan Old School ARts Centre.

EMERGING ARTIST MAKES AN IMPACT

BY JANINE JACKSON

Pounamu Wharekawa (Ngai te Rangi, they/ themme/ia) is a relative newcomer on the art scene but they are already making a big impact.

A self-described “indigenous baddie, fine artist, illustrator and muralist”, Pounamu makes art that speaks about the “intersections of identity through the lens of a queer, small town turned urban Māori living their best boring life in the big smoke of Kirikiriroa”.

Pounamu is now ‘living their best boring life’ back in Whāingaroa at the family homestead on Norrie Street.

The family actually moved into the house the night Pounamu was born over 25 years ago and the house is filled with extended whaanau.

Pounamu’s grandma Peggotty Wharekawa was a teacher at Raglan Area School for many years

“The core of my immediate family lives here and my grandma is the matriarch so it's nice to be able to spend more time with her.”

Creativity runs in the family, mum Claudia Wharekawa is also a talented artist.

“I was definitely encouraged to do art but it was never really seen as a career because she hasn't made it her career,” Pounamu says.

Using vibrant technicolour to depict contemporary versions of Māori pūrākau (legends), atua (deity) and ancestors, Pounamu reimagines them as if they were a cast of rich and diverse characters dancing at the club in downtown Aotearoa.

“I feel like you can’t avoid your own identity. As a takatāpui Māori, feminine person there's no way to avoid any of my lefty views coming into to my art because I value my own existence and that of my peers. So, all of my work is a love letter to them and the people I know, and I feel like that in itself is political. These are trans people, these are square people, these are beautiful mana wāhine who are under appreciated in our society.”

Participating in the Boon Street Art Festival in 2021, their mural of a feminine atua on Liverpool Street was created in their last year of Wintec media arts studies.

“The mural depicts a rangatahi and a tīpuna hongiing, kind of a play on the saying my ancestors walk with me - so the idea that no matter how alone you feel, your ancestors are always there with you.”

Not their first mural though, it was a mural Pounamu had painted while at Wintec that caught the eye of Boon Street Festival director Craig McClure.

“He saw my first ever mural and he just hit me up to be in the mural festival, so that was pretty cool.”

Making these sorts of connections is something Pounamu has actively fostered in the pursuit of being a fulltime artist.

“I worked really hard, going out to events and making friends with people that were in really good positions to offer me work or help nurture me.”

The early success, coupled with past experiences of undervaluing their work, has given Pounamu the confidence to negotiate with clients’ booking commission work.

Being able to price accordingly is something Pounamu has put a bit of thought into. After all there’s a lot of time that goes into a painting regardless of its size.

“I like to have a price range in mind that I will never go under. But I’ll also ask the client what their budget is and then I can offer a range of different of things that I can do for them.”

Before Wintec, Pounamu had tried their luck at making a living as an artist but they didn’t have the business sense at the time to value their work.

“Basically, I was trying to sell original illustrations for 30 bucks, which is the same as a print price. Obviously, I wasn't doing very well. Like, I just spent 10 hours on this painting and I got $20 for it.”

Pounamu credits Wintec for helping build their business acumen and professionalism.

“For me, the thing that was most helpful about Wintec wasn't the technical stuff it was building relationships with my classmates and artists. And being able to be better at scheduling, because if you're having to do assignments, then you get used to knowing what a deadline is.”

Being able to make a living from art as an emerging artist is something they don’t take lightly.

“I feel really lucky to be working fulltime as an artist. I was not expecting it to be this close after graduating. But I was lucky enough to have built up quite a decent client base while I was still studying.”

Much of that study time was through the COVID lockdowns and meant time to get stuck in assignments, as well as contemplate how to get work out in front of the public.

“I think COVID was a really good way for people to stop concentrating so much on exhibitions. Because that's one of the big things as an artist that you're meant to do. I think people were experimenting more with other ways to get their art out into the world.”

For Pounamu, it was an ideal time to build an Instagram following and a website with the hope of selling art.

“It felt like heaps people were getting art over COVID because we were spending so much time in our houses and so buying art was a way to tolerate being stuck in our homes,” they laugh.

As well as paintings and large-scale murals, Pounamu offers a range of prints and t-shirts through their website.

“When I was studying and we had to figure out what we value in art and creativity. One of the big ones for me was trying to think of different ways that I could make my work more accessible to people like me, or students or someone on a benefit.”

MATARIKI EXHIBITION AT LA PETITE GALERIE

A Q&A WITH THE ARTISTS

Jacqui caught up with local artists Kyoko Shirai and Zasha Skye to hear about their joint exhibition, Hajimari, with which is set to show this month.

Describe your upcoming exhibition at La Petite Galerie

The upcoming Exhibition 'Hajimari', meaning ‘new beginning’ in Japanese, is opening on Sunday, July 9th at 5 pm. The Exhibition will be an explorative space that brings people together as the Matariki New Year unfolds. It's a celebration of colour, connection and all that surrounds us. We want to make people feel inspired by Kyoko's almost surreal landscapes and nature work, to my colour-filled portraits.

What has inspired you both to come together to exhibit ?

We found that we both played and explored with the use of colour. We felt like although we work through different mediums from oil paint to pen work, our pieces complemented one another to tell a magic storyline that plays with the idea of 'signifying new life’, as we go into the Matariki New Year.

We both wanted to come together to create and display a large series of works that intertwine with each other and which generate a sense of connection for the audience; hopefully wanting you to take a piece with you for your own home.

What influences both of your works?

Kyoko – My art draws on what I’ve seen and experienced from being Japanese and having spent time on Native American reservations throughout the United States, and the indigenous art of Aotearoa.

Zasha- I love trying to capture a motion in time, something that's encapsulated forever. Although I play with a multitude of colour in my backgrounds, I really try to create a connection between the audience and the portrait itself.

How did you both develop your art skills?

Kyoko – Through years of constant drawing since childhood.

Zasha- I've been playing with oils for over five years now, and I've found that really just trying out different techniques and finding what works best for you is the best way to go. But really just having time. Having time to paint every day is the only way you can truly develop your skill.

Does art help you in other areas of your life?

Kyoko – It allows me to have time out from being a mother, wife and shop owner, plus I’m able to relax in my own headspace.

Zasha- I've found it to be a form of meditation and a way to take a step back from the constant stimulation we seem to be getting more and more of in our daily lives. But overall it's a way to truly express myself and my thoughts that follow along with me.

What motivates you to create?

Kyoko – My husband, and seeing people’s reaction to what I draw, and not wanting to waste this talent gifted to me from God.

Zasha- Truly a love for art and how playful oil paint can be. If I can create a career out of something that I love to do every day, then I am endlessly motivated to get better and better.

Tell us about the opening and what to expect.

The opening will be on Sunday 9th of July, from 5 pm till 8 pm. It's a time to come together and celebrate one another, as Matariki and 'new life' unfolds - 'Hajimari'. Ulo's Kitchen will be providing finger foods, along with drinks from Workshop Brewery, as well as Cian DJing tunes throughout the evening.

Kyoko will also be painting live at The Yard on Friday 7th July from 8-11 pm. This evening will help to show

people her creative process, alongside projections of her previous artwork and a soundtrack supplied by her husband Cian DJing.

When : Opening Night 9th July, 5 pm till 8 pm. Open daily 10th - 16th July, 10 am till 3 pm

Where : La Petite Galerie, 19c Bow Street, Raglan

Contact : 0225897889

Instagram : @ulo.raglan @zashaskye

Kyoko Shirai and Zasha Skye.

WATCH OUT! ART ATTACK IMMINENT AS ARTISTS EMERGE!!

BY SARAH BING, CERAMIC SCULPTOR.

Thisyear's Raglan Arts Weekend (RAW) is formalising the epic pop up you may have caught last year with Jessie Kanji, Lucy Aitken Read, Louis Meehan and Caleb Osborne, with an emerging artists group show at the Town Hall - named, appropriately ‘The Hatch’.

Brainchild of Osborne, Meehan and Miriam Collins (who you may remember from Art Attack #1), The Hatch is a practical solution to many of the barriers facing artists who are just starting to make their mark on the art world.

“The intention behind this wasfrom my own experience being an emerging artist - there really needs to be support in our community, region, country for new artists. Incubation, nurturing and celebration of an artist's journey and new work. We're trying to serve that community wherever they’re at,” Caleb says.

The Old School Arts Centre and RAW coodinator Nicky Brzeska have

been instrumental in getting this off the ground.

“Spaces dedicated to emerging artists are so important - it's a massive spectrum of what that means; commission costs from galleries can be a real killer, lack of spaces to make and exhibit - particularly since that's such a commodity here in Whāingaroa with rent and economic insecurity; lack of confidence or promotional savvy…we want to provide guidance and mentorship alongside RAW to overcome these things,” he says

“For this show we've really narrowed down who we’re trying to support - artists without major gallery representation, who aren’t receiving a fulltime income from their works or who haven’t exhibited prolifically. People in the middle ground putting heaps of love into their work but need a platform.”

“We want The Hatch collective to really collaborate - sharing knowledge and experience and engaging with the more established artists here in Whāingaroa in casual mentorship, sharing a cheeky beer situation.”

Largely paint based, with some sculptural work the town hall exhibition will feature - Caleb Orsborne, Miriam Collins, Bridget Pride, Andrea Velasquez, Ailene Cuthbertson, Zasha Baudry, Esther Miro, Liza Adams, Kayla Bacon, Finley Elder, Lisa Mills, Armin Schmidt, Pat Day and Lucy Aitken-Read.

“Time will tell if The Hatch becomes an ongoing platform for emerging artists here

in our community - we’d love that to happen! Our future direction is very open and exciting, there's definitely room to move, any offers of studio or exhibiting space, hit me up,” Caleb says.

The Hatch emerging artists exhibition will be held at the Town Hall during Raglan Arts Weekend - 21 - 23 October, 10 - 5 daily. Opening on the evening of Friday 20 October.

While the factors driving the housing market activity have shifted with the seasons, there’s one thing you can count on. With a unique blend of expertise, international networks and a suite of innovative marketing tools, Bayleys is the agency for all your property needs.

Residential, commercial, rural and lifestyle – we deliver the best results. Get in touch:

Stephen O’Byrne 021 969 848 stephen.obyrne@bayleys.co.nz

Michelle O’Byrne 021 969 878 michelle.obyrne@bayleys.co.nz

Graham Rope 021 222 7427 graham.rope@bayleys.co.nz

Mark Frost 022 150 2244 mark.frost@bayleys.co.nz

Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services

Caleb Osborne is involved in coordinating the new emerging artists exhibition, The Hatch, which is set to run during the Raglan Arts Weekend. Image | Dave Duffin.

RAGLAN ARTS WEEKEND EXPANDS BEYOND OPEN STUDIO ARTS TRAIL

Visitors to this year’s 13th annual Raglan Arts Weekend will be spoilt for choice with over 50 artists registered and a bunch of new initiatives to keep things fresh.

Set over Labour Day weekend from 21 to 23 October, this year’s RAW not only includes the self-guided open studio trail, but also an Emerging Artist group exhibition, an opening event at Rockit, an ‘artist-only’ coach tour to the studios for the registered artists, and a life drawing workshop for visitors.

Some very exciting new work is set to impress with artworks covering a broad spectrum of styles and techniques, from street and pop art using complex stencils, to traditional premium hat making and designer jewellery, to RAW’s usual award-winning painters and mixed media artists and photographers. There is also a touching posthumous entry for the late Geoff Irving, a local wood sculptor for over 40 years.

The event’s festivities kick off on Thursday 19th October with a ticketed opening night at Rock-It, thanks to a long-term partnership with Bayleys Real Estate. Everyone is welcome to come and meet the artists and share a celebratory drink and a ‘walk and fork’ menu ahead of the busy open studio weekend. The RAW artists will also be heading out on a Bayleys ‘Artist Connect’ bus tour to a selection of art studios so they get a chance to meet other participants and see other artist spaces.

Friday 20th October sees the opening of ‘The Hatch’, RAW’s emerging artists exhibition in the Town Hall for 16 of Whāingaroa’s up-and-coming artists. The opening is a free event for all at 6.30pm

to meet RAW’s rising stars ahead of the weekend too. For those that can’t make the opening, ‘The Hatch’ group exhibition will be operating over RAW Saturday to Monday 10am until 5pm. A grant from Waikato District Council and Rangitahi Peninsula have made this possible this year.

“After the stop and start for RAW over the last two years, we’re now amped for 2023 and excited about how the event is evolving,” says Nicky Brzeska, RAW Coordinator since 2019. “We’ve always wanted to get a few more activities going in addition to the open studio weekend. As the event is improving, we’re starting to attract some top quality partners, such as the prestigious art foundation the Chartwell Trust, Rangitahi Peninsula and Bayleys Real Estate who want to help us take it to the next level.”

Other local businesses that have always been loyal to RAW include Palm Prints, Tony Sly, Little Hill Studios, Artists at Work Studios & Gallery, La Petite Galerie, Rivet, Monster Gallery, Jet, Raglan Sunset Motel and Raglan Holiday Park.

RAW Opening Night @ Rock-it; Thurs 19th Oct, 6.30pm to 8.30pm; tickets are $40 for a 4 course ‘walk and fork’ menu and drink upon arrival

‘The Hatch’ emerging artist exhibition Opening @ Town Hall; Fri 20th Oct, 6.30pm; free event

RAW Open studios self-guided art trail: Sat 21st Oct to Mon 23rd Oct, 10am to 5pm.

Information for RAW and tickets for the opening night can be bought at www.raglanartsweekend.nz.

RAW is a Create Raglan event that is run by the Raglan Community Arts Council.

AN ART CLEARANCE... AND A GOOD CAUSE

All artists recognise the moment their studio walls and floor space are brimming with past passions and experiments … and wonder what to do. Paint over, gift, use them for a good cause?

For Matariki 2023 the Raglan Art group offers a week long visual arts clearance at Little Hill studios. Work by ten artists will be on display with a wide range of styles and media. There will be some new and older work for sale at reduced prices. Each artist’s work will be displayed on one of twelve panels and on the walls of Little Hill Studios.

Wanda Barker, owner-artist at Little Hill, says: “Come visit us on the weekends, or during the week, to celebrate, to purchase older work

at good prices, and support our local artists and community initiatives.”

For this special week 25% of proceeds will go to the Feed the Kids programme at Raglan Area School. Open from Saturday 14 July until Sunday 22 July from 10am to 4pm at 49B Hills Road. Eftpos available, or internet banking. Cash sales accepted.

Wanda explains: “Raglan Arts is a collective of 20 visual artists, established in 2016 to support each other’s art practices and grow the profile of visual arts in our creative community. We host critique evenings, take art trips, create arts workshops (Laborartry) and display work at Raglan Info Centre, Rivet Gallery, Raglan Old School Arts Centre, and until recently we curated monthly group shows at the Community House Basement.”

For more information go to www.raglanart.nz or email to hello@raglanart.nz

WTF ACTS COMPLETE PROFESSIONAL MENTORING AHEAD OF LIVE SHOW

Monday, July 3, marked the completion of the Whāingaroa Talent Factory contestants' professional mentoring sessions with musicians Joel Newport, Kaea Ruawai and Conor McCabe, as they gear up for their highly anticipated live performance on Saturday, July 8th!

Showcasing a captivating blend of cover songs and original compositions, these eight talented performers are ready to leave audiences in awe at the annual youth music showcase. Prepare to be dazzled by this year's extraordinary talent line up:

Zen Lally writes his own music and will be performing live for the first time at WTF23. Zen originally started making music for films he was producing for YouTube when he realised he actually liked making music more than film making. Influenced by popular artists like Charlie Puth and JVKE, Zen recently uploaded his own song I’m not OK to YouTube. He’ll be performing it solo over his own backing track, along with one other original composition.

Luna and Stella are a new pairing for WTF23. They played together as part of a group at WTF22 and have sung together since they were little but this will be their first public performance as a duo. They’ll be playing covers by Lana del Ray and SZA and an original called Aliens which they wrote together for a school project.

Luna Petzold de la Cruz. Luna performed at the first two Whāingaroa Talent Factories and we’re lucky to get her for a third time in a row as she’s flying off to Spain with her family the day after WTF23. She says WTF has been an incredible experience where she learned a lot about performing and is much more confident about playing her music because of it. Luna is inspired by chill pop and singer songwriter music.

Bella Alexander. Bella says she literally started singing when she was in the car on long family trips. With brother Josh, a veteran of WTF22, she’s been building up her skills

and confidence to perform solo at this year’s Whāingaroa Talent Factory. She has performed at Earthbeat and sometimes sings with her brother’s other band Salty Jam. Bella will perform one original track and another by Adele. Sharp Circle. Django Bassett was one of the original acts for WTF2020 and is back again with new music for WTF23. Django has been writing music since he was 7 years old and says he is pretty much always writing new pieces. He’s chosen to showcase his most recent track Falling Further and has recruited Hendrix and Waiariki from Abstract Fish Lungs to help bring the song to life.

Abstract Fish Lungs. Josh Alexander on guitar and vocals, Waiariki Tepania on guitar, Hendrix Knox on bass and Lily Lye on Drums. With one change in personnel since they performed at WTF22 they have completed their first recording Misery which has been playing on Raglan Community Radio. They also recently made the top 2 at the Waikato Regional Rockquest final and are in with a chance to go to the National finals in September. They are working on a new song for the finals and if we’re lucky we’ll get to hear it at WTF23 along with a third composition.

ABSTRACT FISH LUNGS SELECTED FOR ROCKQUEST NATIONAL FINALS

Raglan band Abstract Fish Lungs had a successful night at the Smokefree Rockquest Regional Finals in Hamilton in late June. The judges awarded them second place and while they might have preferred top spot, it’s the top two bands who are both eligible for the National final - although they still have to submit a video to impress another set of judges before confirming they’ve made it.

The judging process concludes in July and after that the the top 30 bands that have made it into the national finals will be announced. If the band successfully advances, they will proceed to the finals scheduled for September 23.

Fans of Abstract Fish Lungs will be able to see them play in Raglan soon too as they are one of eight acts signed up for the Whāingaroa Talent Factory which will be held on Saturday 8th July in the Town Hall. The acts have attended mentor sessions with professional musicians already and will have a week to prepare for the big night.

Mentors Kaea Ruawai, Conor McCabe and Joel Newport provide guidance to young performers ahead of their live show on Saturday, July 8.

OnFriday, June 23, the Raglan Area School senior students had their “All That Glitters” School Ball and for the second year running it was held in our own school gym. The senior ball committee put together all of the amazing decorations, transforming the venue into something that was breathtaking. Our sound and lighting was next level, thanks to the dedicated and talented crew from Raglan Light and Sound Event Productionthank you Nick.

We had over 150 year 11-13 students, including their guests, who danced the night away in style. Our very own, super talented school band opened the ball for us - their energy was next level. What an amazing band they are. The sweet sounds of DJ Conor McCabe followed and the dance floor rocked the entire night.

Stunning photos were taken to mark the occasion by Whaea Margaret Dillon and Whaea Amy Hanna, while the photo booth from “Snap Click” was well used. All photos are available to view on the “RAS Senior Ball 2023” Facebook page.

Thanks to Sasha and her team from Kaiwaka Kitchen for the delicious food; your menu was a huge hit.

Astounding the crowd with magic card tricks and illusions was Mick Peak, our magician from Auckland. He had us totally flummoxed with his performances as he strolled the room working the crowd. We are still trying to figure out how he managed to get the cards we signed in front of him into a sealed envelope in his pocket. Thank you to Raglan Naturally for

RAGLAN AREA SCHOOL SENIOR BALL 2023

sponsoring him for our entertainment and delight.

We would also like to give a huge thanks to all those generous parents, community members and businesses who answered our call to sponsor student’s tickets to the ball. This was so welcomed by many of our whānau, knowing times are tough out there. A special mention must go to the Raglan Community House, Raglan Physio, Terry Yorston Flooring, Cathy O’Shea from Property Brokers and Matt from West Coast Plumbing and Gas - just to name a few, for your generous donations - you really made a difference for so many people.

Importantly, we want to acknowledge the effort made by the students on the 2023 ball committee who worked tirelessly for over a term to plan and run this event. All that mahi certainly paid off. Also, a big thank you to the Raglan Area School staff and students for your support and mahi.

Finally, a huge shout out to the students who attended the ball. You were amazing and your smiles throughout the evening made it all worthwhile.

Nga mihi nui RAS Senior Ball Committee

Recently crowned Queen of the Point at Manu Bay, the Local Rag caught up with surfer Brie Bennett to hear about her season.

Tell us a little about your surfing journey.

I started surfing with what's known as the "sea dogs" at Raglan Area School with my friend Oceanah when I was 10 years old, from there we both were so in love with the sport and would beg our parents to take us out surfing everyday after school.

I did my first competition when I was 13 and made the final so the following year decided to travel around the North Island on the NZ surfing circuit. From there I continued to progress and started to get really good results, and my competitive surfing was then taken to a few places overseas.

Congrats on your recent win in Raglan. How did it feel to take out the title?

I was so happy to win the King and Queen of the point. It was my first big win in a few years, and first win in the open women's division. It was even more special that it was at home.

How has the last year of comps gone for you ?

The last flurry of comps I didn't do to well. Surfing for me was full time when I was in school, I would surf usually twice a day everyday.

Now that I'm in my second year of studying Nursing at the UoW I had to definitely step back a little from surfing unfortunately. As I was struggling to balance full time study and full time surfing. However I'm still really keen to get out for a surf or do surf specific training when I can.

What do you hope to achieve in the next couple of years?

SURF SERIES

For now my main focus has become getting my degree, after that I would like to give international competitions another crack.

What other things do you love doing?

My new passion is now Nursing. I love contributing to helping people and making their day or their condition better. I also love all sports I love to be active, in summer I love all water sports such as swimming, wakeboarding, and in winter I love to snowboard.

If surfing wasn’t your thing to pursue what would of been?

Before I started surfing I was really into my netball and it was my dream to be a silver fern. However when I started surfing consistently i realised I had to make a decision what sport I would rather focus on to get really good at, it was either surfing on saturdays or being in hamilton playing netball.

How do you think growing up in Raglan has influenced you?

Growing up in Raglan has definitely influenced me to surf, there are so many amazing surfing role models. Surfing being a part of the curriculum at Raglan Area School was definitely what gave me the confidence and got me into surfing. There's not many schools that will take you out after lunch to go surfing, so I am super thankful for the opportunities Raglan Area School gave me.

Who would you like to give thanks to for their support?

Firstly I would like to thank my sponsors Raglan Surf Emporium, Ripcurl and my parents, they supported me from day dot, and a lot of the opportunities I have been given probably wouldn't have been possible without them. I would also like to thank DK, Bugsy, Larry, and Dean, who have helped me along the way in my surfing journey.

Afrothing young team of surfers has been selected to represent New Zealand at the 2023 ISA World Junior Surfing Championship.

A stepping stone into the world of top-level surfing, the ISA World Junior Surfing Championship is the largest junior surfing event in the world playing host to over 340 surfers from 44 nations.

In 2023 New Zealand will send a full team of the best twelve athletes in the country to compete in the Under 18 Women, Under 18 Men, Under 16 Boys and Under 16 Girls divisions.

Local Navryn Malone will make his debut after becoming the 2023 Under 18 Boys National Champion in a showstopping display of talent at Piha in January.

In the Under 16 Boys Division, we see Raglan’s Theo Morse join the team for the first time, “I’m super excited to have qualified for the New Zealand Junior Team. Stoked to have completed a bunch of my goals this year and now working hard on my skills and preparing new goals for competition on the world stage. I’m so extremely grateful for the incredible support from friends and family and the Raglan community, especially the Raglan Surfing Academy who are helping me to prepare for the event. I am looking forward to the whole experience

BROUGHT TO

YOU BY

RAGLAN SURF CO

NZ JUNIOR SURFING TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT

and stoked to be sharing it with my little sister Alani,” he added.

Finally, we will see Leia Millar of Piha make a return to the team after an outstanding performance throughout the 2023 Grom Season. She looks to better her 22nd place finish at the 2022 ISA World Junior Championships whilst Alani Morse (Rag) and Lola Groube (Pau) make their debut on the team.

Alani Morse, who qualified for the team alongside her brother Theo, also looks forward to the challenge ahead. “Personally, I’m feeling extremely blessed to be a part of the team and being able to represent New Zealand. I’m so excited to challenge myself in a new environment. I am pumped to see the different cultures and being a part of an incredible event. I am also looking forward to travelling with my older brother Theo, stoked we can be together and share the experience which is super special”.

The last time New Zealand competed at the Championships was El Salvador in 2022 where the New Zealand Junior Team placed 13th.

As an IOC recognised event, New Zealand has been represented at ISA World Junior Championships since 2003 when the junior divisions were separated from the World Surfing Games.

The ISA has yet to confirm a date or venue for this year’s event.

THIS CONTENT WAS MADE POSSIBLE THANKS TO SPONSORSHIP FROM RAGLAN SURF CO.

GROWING KAI IN WHĀINGAROA, A BLAST FROM THE PAST

INTERVIEW WITH WAATI ORMSBY WITH KATIE LOWES

Q: What did you call this space you created with veggies and kunekune and dirt being dropped off?

Waati: Spending time there, it was called a garden. We called it a garden. Dad’s fella up the road (sic. Kaiwhenua), he used to sell to the supermarket – I cut the track up the back at his place, and he came and picked up the off-cuts off the trees, tea tree, and mulched it, and we put that all around our garden too. It’s a lot of work, but we fed that garden.

Q: What about this work made you joyful?

Waati: To be fair it was also to do with mental illness, a place to go to and do something; it calmed me, it made me think straight and I could focus on what was needed to do.

It was for survival, my grandfather had a half acre garden, his veg would be hanging up, there was no fridge. In 1905 grandfather would fish, hunt, grow, cook, eat, he would do everything. I have a farming heritage. I also have hope and have that ‘call to the land’ like farming. It’s also a creative space, and it’s really good to have it.

I liked when friends and whānau called in, the place had a nice feel about it and we would show off what we had succeeded to do. We had a place to get away from weather and have lunch or even a few cold beers.

Q: Were any children involved in the garden, growing or maintaining it?

Waati: We were like, “Try this and try that,” all the kids liked the baby carrots and peas. Everyone liked the baby carrots! There will come a day there’ll be those that don’t know what these taste like from the garden, but we loved them, we all did.

Q: You live in a more urban environment now. What can you tell us about that different gardening space?

Waati: I have been growing tomatoes in a container, pulled the roots out and there are thousands! These things wanna grow!

KatieLowes talks to Waati Ormsby, a former Raglan resident who, back in the 90s, recognised the potential of some land near his home and developed an abundant vege garden with his neighbour and whānau.

Kia ora Waati! It was great to speak with your cousin about a garden that was grown here near Wainui Rd. I appreciate the garden is no longer active because you have moved elsewhere, but like many others new to maara kai I would love to talk to you about your experience growing in Whāingaroa.

Waati: “We moved to Raglan; my wife had a job at the childcare centre next to the Raglan Hotel. We lived on Wainui Road just up from the garden. Raglan was a great place - we had a good run as my son won a Suzuki Swift from the Westside Store when he bought a KitKat.

My cousin Peter Tuteao told his dad who is also my uncle that we were here. Uncle Sid is a legend to us and we got chatting and the next thing I’m cutting down trees and scrub as a job on some land near my house. Long story short, while I was there I noticed a spring/ creek. The place was basically four seasons in one as it offered unused ground, water, had all day sun and it had shelter. So I said to Troy Nicholson my neighbour, we should put in a garden and the answer was yes.

So the garden began after the clearing area was done properly, we dammed the stream in 3 places so that we had water 24/7, made little channels off the stream so it basically watered the garden. We sloped it and regulated it. We even made the water cascade over some rocks so it naturally filtered the water.

I went to your old garden and it was obvious that some climbing plants were designed to grow up a bank, it was clever! There would have been water below and space to ramble…

Waati: Yeah we had cucumbers on that bank and kamokamo. Everyone looked at the dirt that I was working for Uncle, and I put all that good stuff in the ground – we had irrigation, it was a natural spring.

Q: Was it wet all year round?

Waati: We had a couple of spots that got damp. We fed it with food which at that time was grass cuttings from Raglan Lawns, that type of thing. The Council was ditching dirt from somewhere, 50-60 trucks of dirt, filled in that bank. We were a bit of a dump place, there was no money exchanged. But we built a garden.

Q: You say ‘we’; did you do this with others?

Waati: Martin, yeah he did a lot of work for the old fella too, it was a community effort.

Q: Can you tell me about any bumper-crop or memorable experiences?

Waati: Carrots! Our carrots were pretty good. We went into it like you have to “be” what you wanna grow; we would say, “What does a carrot need?” It’s the same with hunting, you also need to be what you’re trying to catch - I’m going off things I heard in my past. We did pigs there as well as that garden, we got them from up the road, they ate all our waste, kunekune.

Oh yeah and the garlic, it’s funny what you can remember! The garlic is like you put it in and, wow! I had Troy Nicholson there too; we battled each other to see what we came up with, solutions for how to do something. We had a plan, and we always had something we were trying to do.

Now I have one hundred pot plants; it’s my instinct – I will turn anything into a garden!

Q: Do you have any advice or tips for the next generation of gardeners?

Waati: Enjoy it! …. It’s priceless.

Thanks for your time telling us the story of the garden, ngā mihi Waati. And for those of you reading this inspired to tend to the land, there are many community groups working toward food resilience in Whāingaroa.

At Whāingaroa Environment Centre there is a group of volunteers that pack seeds into origami paper pouches, enough for households to get started growing veggies and herbs. Head to the Town Hall and you will see the aroha seed stand outside the office/tool Library. The seeds are funded by larger Trusts such as Trust Waikato and WEL Energy Trust; often we have enough money in the kitty to put some seed-raising mix there too.

This is part of a larger project by the Growers Network, encouraging local crops to go to seed, thus enabling us to share seeds widely as a community. These actions mean that we can keep growing heritage crops and celebrate the food of this place.

Growing our food means less freighted food, less chemicals, less carbon emissions, less plastic wrap from the packaging, and the reason why I love the locally grown food… it just tastes better. Thanks Waati, I will grow carrots and peas this year for my kids; thanks for the inspiration.

TALKING ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH

WITH RUBY GIBBS - CREATOR OF THE MENTAL HEALTH TOOLBOX

person I've ever met; he would say “first truth, then peace”. I loved his incisive simplicity, which is rare. I was so messed up that when I found him I went down to Nelson and lived with him and his wife for two weeks and had one session a day with him. They actually gave a shit about me. He ran a three week school and I did that in Hamilton. At that stage it was a way of equipping myself to help other people. I knew I didn't want to absorb all this truth and keep it to myself.

When you've been at the lowest points, what is it that got you through?

What lessons have you learnt throughout your life?

Bevan Lockwood has lived in Raglan for 27 years. We sat down on a rainy afternoon to talk about his journey and how it’s made him who he is today.

What is your relationship like with your mental health?

I would say it’s mostly good, but I can have dark phases. Being 57, I've learnt some good management tools. I'd say I'm the best me I've ever been but it's taken a lot of work. It's not in the forefront of my everyday life, I just get on with it. I am acutely aware of it though and it's a passion as well. I want to make sure this lovely village of ours stays lovely and I try to check in on others too. Not in an invasive way, in a trusting way.

What has your relationship been like in the past with your mental health?

I was abused for the first 16 years of my life instead of nurtured. It wasn’t the physical but the psychological and emotional stuff that was the worst. I attempted suicide at 16, thank God I didn’t manage it. I was a very angry, confused man from 16-25, then at 28 I learned about forgiveness. I flew from Raglan to Dunedin to forgive my abuser and they wept in my arms, there was so much guilt. It took a while to come to that.

I liken abuse to buying a computer that has a blank hard drive; that's a child. It's got no Windows or iOs or Firefox, it's blank. If you're nurtured, it gets filled with all the programmes you need to survive, but if you're abused it gets filled with malware, spyware and viruses. I was with a psychologist from 30-33 and he helped me replace all those lies with truth. I hate to think what I'd be like if I hadn't met him. He's the most truthful

I found this GP who I bonded with over our clinical background. I was a medical scientist for 20 years. When I was 40, he told me I was burning out and it would take me two plus years to deal with it. It was almost a relief to burn out and just stop and not be able to work. I'd never done anything for myself. Leo, my GP, said, “Have you ever been selfish?” It's one of the qualities I hate the most but he taught me about healthy selfishness. Unless you're any good for yourself you're no good for others. How long had I ignored that? So it took quite a few years to deal with the burnout. But the lowest point in my entire life was when my 13 year marriage failed and I wasn't able to see my three children all the time. I wanted to give them a perfect childhood because I hadn't had one. I lived the perfect life that I dreamed of as a kid, and then it was gone. It took a long time to get out of that. I was drinking very heavily but I just needed to blank out. I ended up in a hut that I built on a mate’s property in Whale Bay. I spent two years, from 47-49, battling almost daily. I was broken. It was worse than my childhood, it was worse than the burnout. But now, I'm the best person I've ever been because I've done the work. In the last seven years, especially. I just thought, I'm going to let this make me. It's hard to own your shit; some of it might not be that pretty. Not only have I been abused but I've got learned behaviours from being in that environment during a formative time. I didn't think I was going to get out of that dark phase at all. It was a slow process. I just took it one day at a time. I thought, I'm going to be a brilliant ex-husband. And our children are happy, well-adjusted kids, much better off than two parents not loving each other at home. We broke an inter-generational cycle on both sides.

It’s the hardest thing to do, and I had to overcome the lies from my childhood, but it is to be kind to yourself. It's really high on any list of having good long term wellbeing; just being good at selfassessing and being kind to yourself. And cut yourself some slack! My oldest daughter is named Grace for a reason. It's crucial; it's a key ingredient of living. If you can't extend it to yourself, you won't be able to extend it to others. Also I’ve learned to not regret yesterday, to not worry about tomorrow and to live in the present.

What are the tools in your toolkit?

My toolkit is incredibly simple. I don't drink a lot as alcohol is a depressant. Sleep is super important to me; you cannot function at any level as a human without quality, regular sleep. It sounds cliché but it's eating clean as well. Checking in with people that you know are safe and I want to be that person for other people as well. We need to be a lot more open when we are having a tough time or suffering. Even though I've had a hard life, I'm grateful. I believe whatever the question is, love is the answer. Considering my start, I've lived large. I've given it a good shake. I still find meaning in where I'm at, because every day I try to spread love.

Where to get help

737, Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 to talk to a trained counsellor.

Depression.org.nz 0800 111 757 or text 4202

Lifeline 0800 543 354

Mental Health Foundation 09 623 4812, Rural Support Trust 0800 787 254 Samaritans 0800 726 666 Suicide Crisis Helpline 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)

Yellow Brick Road 0800 732 825 thelowdown.co.nz Web chat, email chat or free text 5626

What's Up 0800 942 8787 (for 5 to 18-year-olds). Phone counselling available Monday-Friday, noon-11pm and weekends, 3pm-11pm. Online chat is available 3pm-10pm daily.

Youthline 0800 376 633, free text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz, or find online chat and other support options here. In a life-threatening situation, call 111.

THIS CONTENT WAS MADE POSSIBLE THANKS TO SPONSORSHIP FROM SWOP RAGLAN

Content Warning: This article contains sensitive content and discusses mental health topics, which may be triggering for some readers. Reader discretion is advised. Professional helplines can be found at the end of the article.

wāhine

A showcase of local businesses in Whāingaroa, Raglan run by women. Support these local businesses - follow their socials, spread the word and celebrate this great community we live in.

If you would like to be included in the next WOMEN MAKING WAVES feature please email geb@g-design.co.nz

Thelong standing shop and art gallery on the main street of Raglan welcomes 2 new members into the collective - ceramics artist Sarah Bing and photographer Geraldine Burns.

JET is a tiny shop packed full of goodness, selling work by 7 Raglan based creatives, as well as work on behalf of other NZ makers and crafts people.

Sarah Bing creates quirky and colourful ceramic art pieces. Not your average potter - Sarah's work includes large scale sculptures, boobie mugs, keep cups and whimsical one off platters and teapots.

Geraldine - known for her moody Raglan imagery, will have some of her larger fine art photography for sale in the shop, as well as a new range of framed and unframed art prints. Geraldine is excited to have a permanent space to showcase her work and also to be working in the store selling the other artists' work too.

Painter Hayley Hamilton has an exhibition on September 15-30, with Jane Galloway at the Artists at Work Gallery on Wainui Rd.

JET COLLECTIVE IS: Hayley Hamilton - painter

Karla Stevenson - ceramics

Sarah Steed - jewellery

Sarah Bing - ceramics

Jillian Lankshear - photography

Sarah Aitchison - clothing

Geraldine Burns - photography

Bow Street, Raglan P: 07 8258566 IG: @jetcollectiveraglan

FB: @jetcollective E: jetcollectiveraglan@gmail.com

PERMANENT MAKEUP & MEDICAL TATTOOING BY SARAH COX

THE LOCAL RAG CHATS WITH SARAH COX

Describe what service you are offering the community:

Permanent Makeup, which is also known as Cosmetic Tattooing, Medical Tattooing, Saline Removal, Dermal Needling, Inkless Scar & Stretchmark Revision, and Cosmelan Peels for pigmentation.

What are the different types of tattooing you perform?

I do cosmetic tattooing - eyebrows, eyeliner and lip blushing, which gives a natural makeup look that doesn't smudge. Perfect for anyone that has trouble applying makeup or would just like the ease of not having to every day. It's also great for outdoor enthusiasts that don't want to worry about makeup running or smudging!

I also do medical tattooing for ladies that need a 3D nipple and areola post breast cancer. I have a great relationship with the breast cancer department at Waikato hospital and was recently

invited to the Breast Cancer conference to showcase my work.

My nipple tattooing is done at the cost of my consumables only, my time and skill is free of charge for this service.

With the medical tattooing following surgeries what positive effects to you observe?

The most positive effect I see in my ladies following the 3D nipple and areola tattoo is the confidence they feel when they look in the mirror and see the symmetry that the tattoo gives them. It's also the full stop and final finishing touch, in an often quite long and emotional journey. I receive a lot of positive feedback and for me is the most rewarding service to offer!

What is your background? What training is required?

I am originally from the Waikato but spent 18 years in England on a very extended OE. I trained in beauty therapy in 2002 and had my own studio for a number of years, I then went on to train in Cosmetic Tattooing in 2017 and Medical Tattooing in 2018 with Finishing Touches UK. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to train with a number of award winning artists in the UK before returning to NZ in 2019 and setting up my business in Auckland.

Where do you operate from and how do people get in touch?

I have a studio in Ponsonby, Auckland and currently another studio on Cross St in Chris Meeks gallery.

EVERYONE'S STORE RAGLAN

A COLOURFUL CLOTHING STORE IN THE HEART OF WHĀINGAROA!

MIND BODY BLOOM

COUNSELLING, ARTS & PLAY THERAPY NOW IN RAGLAN

My store, situated in the heart of Whāingaroa, is filled with all the feel good things with sustainability and quality as our priority.

We stock brands like Afends, who use natural fibres such as hemp grown on their own farm, Misfit, which reflects our fun lifestyle here and Baggu, whose products keep your daily items organised in a creative way.

The brands we stock are carefully curated for our community. We are pretty lucky here in Whāingaroa that all of our stores complement each other in their unique ways.

My aim is to forever make people feel special and feel good in themselves. I want everyone who walks through my door to feel something, from the music that hits their ears, to the smell and to the smile that greets you. I want to keep that kotahitanga alive and for the people in our community to have a comfortable space to just be.

Nau mai haere mai ki Everyones' Store Raglan! Indya Gibbs.

IG: @everyonesstoreraglan

W: www.everyonesstoreraglan.com

E: everyonesraglan@gmail.com

P: 0212348488

GINA JANSEN LAWYERS

SCALE THE PROPERTY LADDER - ORIGINAL & ETHICAL LEGAL SOLUTIONS

Mind Body Bloom offers support to individuals, couples and families who are navigating life's challenges.

Many of us face difficulties like relationship breakdown, separation/divorce, grief, anxiety, depression, tantrums/meltdowns, trauma and other emotional or behavioural difficulties. Having a safe space to express, process and make sense of what's going on can make a huge difference to how we navigate it.

Established by Beth Ivy Buxton, Mind Body Bloom uses traditional talk therapy alongside tools such as movement, yoga, art, journaling and sensory play. This means we can work with both adults and children, tailor the approach to best meet your needs, and quickly support you to move forward.

The new space in Raglan (Wallis St) is also used by 2 other amazing therapists, trained and experienced in counselling, arts and play therapy. Zoom and phone sessions are also available.

To find out more or book a time for a chat see details below. Funding is available (criteria apply).

IG: @themindbodybloom W: www.mbbloom.com

E: beth@mbbloom.com P: 0212059618

BESPOKE FLOWERS FOR YOUR SPACE

BY LEEF FLORAL DESIGN

Everyone knows that buying property can be stressful. But at Gina Jansen Lawyers, we don’t believe you should be stressed out when purchasing a house, home or bach, whether it’s your first or 50th. It’s an exciting time.

Knowledge is power and knowledge gives you confidence. So we 100% promise to empower and inform our clients. We will expertly guide and support you through the property minefield, and we 100% promise you will only be working with senior and highly experienced lawyers. And yes, we know our stuff. Obtained through years of experience in the New Zealand property game. We design tailor made, value driven legal solutions that allow our clients to scale the property ladder with ease and confidence, getting you the results you dreamed about.

We also provide a wide range of other legal services, including property, business, and divorce/relationship property settlements. We specialise in Inland Revenue tax debts, tax disputes and tax litigation. We love Raglan and helping locals to achieve their goals and dreams. So check out our website and our Google Reviews. Then get in touch. We’d love to help.

W: www.ginajansen.co.nz

E: admin@ginajansen.co.nz

Leefstyle can be described as anything from wild, deconstructed and romantic, to modern and sophisticated. Florist Ange Hardy loves to create something unique for every customer, wedding or special event, she will craft flowers to delight your senses.

Ange textures each arrangement, combining classic flowers with unexpectedly shaped foliage and natives. With her passion for the amazing foliage in this country, (the incredible textures and greens) she loves to incorporate it in all her work, if and where she can.

Bring a touch of colour and class to your space with bespoke floral arrangements for your home or accommodation - Ange specialises in creating beautiful flowers for your businesses, events, weddings or for that special friend or loved one.

You will find Leef bouquets fresh everyday at Raglan Supervalue, wrapped in her signature brown paper, finished with twine. The bunches are generous and the flowers will last. Or she is happy to deliver around the local Raglan community. Contact Ange for any special requests or to arrange meeting up for a cuppa and a chat about your floral requirements.

IG: @leef_floraldesign E: leef.floraldesign@gmail.com P: 0273780787 FB: leef floral designs

WHĀINGAROA WEEDBUSTERS

a Saturday morning if you take a walk along Kaitoke Walkway you might hear chatter, laughter, sometimes a little huffing and puffing and the occasional "gotcha ya bastard", or words to that effect.

On

approval and support, to voluntarily remove the pest plants and make space for more natives like Nikau, Kohekohe, Puriri and Kowhai that will give the native manu year round food sources. The Piwakawaka, Tui, Kereru and Ruru we all love to see and hear, but why shouldn't we also welcome Kaka and Korimako/ Bellbird or even Hihi/Stitchbirds ? Make the place more inviting ?

You might have to step around a pile of plant matter or a discarded tool, or maybe a lunchbox full of homemade baking for morning tea. Maybe you can't see anyone but we're there; this is the dream team at work, Friends of Kaitoke Walkway, removing the garden escapee pest plants like privet, pampas, honeysuckle, climbing asparagus, agapanthus and much, much more clogging up the forest, draping themselves over and suffocating, or just out-competing with massive seeds drops, the native trees.We've noticed that the Kotare/ Kingfisher using nests in the clay banks year after year must go elsewhere because the climbing asparagus grew so thick over the bank it blocked the access.

Pest animals are a major problem but so are pest plants.

New Zealand has 2500 native plant species but we have brought into New Zealand an additional 25,000 and counting, exotic plants from overseas, many of which are happy to jump the fence - or be thrown - and climate change is helping them feel right at home here where they don't have natural predators keeping them in check. That beautiful Monstera, cute little String of Pearls, pretty purple tradescantia, various Ficus species, Alocasia, Philodendron, on and on - these could be the next privet or gorse or climbing asparagus.

Friends of Kaitoke Walkway are locals who took the initiative, with council

connected Check if you’re eligible and register with your Bee Card to get activated.

As a group we like doing good for nature, hanging out together and seeing the changes - freeing the native seedlings from veils of pest plants, replacing these with what should be here and boosting habitat for insects, lizards and bats, as well as year-round food and safe nest sites for birds.

Kaitoke walkway totals over 10 hectares of space. We could do with a hand so why don't you join in ?

We meet all year round, 1st and 3rd Saturday each month, 9-11am more or less as the mood takes you. Meet at the East Street entrance.

Email Whāingaroaweedbusters@ gmail.com if you'd like to know more. Or keep an eye on the Whāingaroa Weedbusters facebook group.

VISIT ROCK-IT THIS WINTER

J

acqui caught up with Kirsten from Rock-it kitchen to get a winter update from the popular destination eatery.

What is unique about Rock-it and what it offers ?Rock-it is a family run company, based on a re-purposed wool shed with a sunsoaked deck overlooking rolling green hills.

Our staff are welcoming to all and our menu is made up of classics done right and original flavours you’ll want to try. We have a kids menu and welcome dogs on our deck and lawn. This place will make you feel right at home.

What are your hours over winter ?

For the next few winter months Rock-it will be open for Breakfast and Lunch from Wednesday-Sunday from 9am til 3pm.

Any changes to the menu over winter?

A new winter menu filled with hearty and warming meals will be available from late June.

A: 248 Wainui road

W: rockitraglan.co.nz

P: 07 825 8233

Ilove the stories of how people meet their lovers, fall in love (or not fall in love!) and how different couples hook-up prior to this melting pot of school-playground connection.

Many parents struggle with identity change, firstly in the wilderness of physiological change in pregnancy, followed by practical changes in our life-style, this means that maintaining our adult friendships gets tested when we raise our kids.

Just before Christmas last year Jess’s husband Jair asked if I could collect their son from school for a few days while he was away, as Jess would be teaching dance and they could see a calendar crisis ahead.

“Of course,” I said, “Where are you off to?” (knowing that they are both still connected to the national and international performance world).

“Oh, I will be in Wellington, I am a flying Elf next week”. At this point I was sure that I needed to make better efforts maintaining these adult friendships. Who wouldn’t want to be friends with a flying elf?!

Before long I found out how Jess and Jair met, and I couldn’t keep it to myself. I proudly present: a local love story, the foundation of the dream-teamsuper-couple that make up our local Dance and Circus company Freedom 2 Fly.

Q: Tell me about when you first met? What was life like then?

Jess: When we first met I was a dancer on a cruise ship, living the dream, haha.. I was traveling the world, doing what I love and getting paid for it, I couldn't have felt happier! Then I saw Jay and his team performing and practicing and I was like.. WOW.. NEXT LEVEL, I wanna do what they do! Also Jay was like this gorgeous tiny Tarzan with his long curly hair, flicking it around as he literally flew around the stage on the top deck and doing handstands as we sailed under the Sydney Harbour bridge. It was next level kinda stuff that blew my mind. I wasn't sold on him being for me, but he grew on me. I realised I actually really liked him one day when a member of his team fell during a show. My roommate and I ran upstairs (it was the first show we hadn’t watched) and we heard an alarm to get the medical team to the top deck, I was horrified Jay had hurt himself so we ran up in our pjs and saw him helping his team mate be wheeled off to the medical centre. It was pretty bad, but it wasn't Jay and that's when I realised I actually had feelings for this COLOMBIAN CIRCUS DUDE haha. I didn't want him to go home.

Jair: We met in Singapore Nov 2009 on a cruise ship. It was super funny the fact we couldn't understand each other and had to use a mutual English friend to translate (she didn't speak any Spanish by the way). I was part of a 6 acrobats troupe, and Jess was part of the resident dancers cast, when we were officially

introduced (round of names and nationality sort of thing) it was a “Uuuuuuuuu!” from everyone else when I said ‘Jessica is an easy name to remember’.

Q: Tell me about what you thought when you saw this person? Was there a spark, or a mutual appreciation, or another emotion like anger? Passion? Intrigue? ... Throw some words at me!

Jess: We were being introduced to our teams his cirque team and our dancing team and I said my name.. he said, “Oh that's an easy name to remember,” and everyone went, “OOOOOOOOOOOOOOHHHH,” and I went bright red and was like.. what just happened? haha.. We were actually wing men for our roommates who were wanting to tap each other. Their thing went nowhere and we ended up together forever.

Jair: The feeling was more like a challenge - Was she too pretty? Out of my league. So, what happened next? Well, she became a more and more interesting girl, she started to learn Spanish, she can dance (especially salsa), she is a super funny and fun person to be around. Within a couple of months, I thought she was the whole package!

Q: So, what happened next?

Jess: We almost broke up forever when we got off the contract and went our separate ways. I was like.. DAMN I LIKE HIM ALOT.. that was a sad goodbye. I was offered a world cruise contract as dance captain and also a contract on the same ship as him but around the pacific (which I had already done 4 times) and not as dance captain. I asked him what he thought I should do.. he said.. “I don't know” ( I just wanted him to come with me. He didn't, so I took the world cruise to spite him. Then we were both sad and he said, “What, Why did you choose that?” I said, “’Cos you didn’t say you wanted me to come on the cruise with you”, and he said, “But I do,”

It just so happened the director of recruiting managed to fix it so I ended up not taking the world cruise and was on the next contract with him. This was one of those ‘meant to be moments’ that magically brought us together. I ended up meeting his family after our first contract. That was wild. I didn't speak much Spanish, had bright red hair and he didn't' live in the safest of places.

Jair: After one year we were together I told my best friend "If I don't get married with this girl I won't ever be married”, it was a way to say she is ‘perfecta’.

Q: And did you think this person was going to be the person you started a family with?

Jess: I didn't, but now I can't imagine life without him!

Jair: Our life is the one I always dreamed of, having your soul mate by your side everyday is the best thing that can happen to a human being, you can even laugh in tough moments of life.

Q: And how about your families, what would or what do they say about you?

Jess: I think my family ADORE HIM! He is fun, helpful, easy to talk to and gets on with everyone.

Jair: My family has always thought I married a princess :) They love Jessica and they find her Spanish super cute, on the other hand, as soon as Jessica's dad found out she was dating a Colombian, he said, "Colombia is not a place to raise children" and now they have me every Christmas at the table :) They are super lovely and supportive in-laws.

What are the big dreams ahead? Tell me about those.

Jess: We want to build a purpose built studio theatre for Raglan, we want a place that serves as a studio that can host multiple classes at the same time, Dance, Circus, Aerials, Performances etc. that outlives us and serves our community into the future! The thought of building something that could inspire future generations to be awesome, creative and inspirational is very exciting and everything we have set our minds on until now has happened. This one is a huge, terrifying, but a possible goal!

Jair: Too many big dreams ahead, to get a purpose build studio for F2F, keep performing internationally with our own produced shows, buy a house in Raglan, see our kids growing in a such a good environment to name a few. We feel super happy and privileged to live in a supportive community like Raglan, we started to feel like locals now (after 6 years living here) and the feeling of belonging to this town and this country, make us wake up every morning and feel blessed and inspired to keep doing our best and enjoying every single step of it.

Thanks so much to Jess and Jair for sharing their love story with us. On behalf of many of us in the community I want to say a big thank you to them!! Their energy, passion and exceptional skill brings an experience for us (kids and adults) that would be hard to match anywhere in the world.

PLAYING WITH FIRE REALLY CATCHES ON AT TE UKU

BY EDITH SYMES

Te Uku School students got to play with fire – but safely – last month when a visiting duo from performing arts group Te Ahi Ora gave lessons of a different kind.

Over two days tutors Liam Smith and James Frick taught everyone from littlies in year one right through to year eights the art of fire performance, which they say is fast becoming a new sport designed “to get kids active and off their (digital) screens”.

The children’s interest was certainly ignited when the Chronicle called by one lunchtime – the whole school chanting “Fire! Fire! Fire! Fire!” while waiting for Liam to fuel up and do his stuff outside on the courts with flaming staffs.

The night before they’d had a go themselves, putting their daytime class-by-class lessons – with staffs but no fire – into practice after dark, flames and all.

“The kids loved it,” said principal Paula Malins, of the performance to which their families were invited. “They got to enjoy experimenting with fire but in a safe way.”

They were taught never to play with fire indoors and to wear only natural fibres like cotton rather than the more flammable synthetic or plastic fabrics when handling flaming staffs, she explained.

While this art form now being delivered to schools all around the country may sound dangerous, it is just as safe as any contemporary sport and in some cases even safer, Te Ahi Ora insists. “We are proud to have a spotless health and safety record.”

The performing arts group has been funded this year for the first time by the Ministry for Culture and Heritage to deliver its programme to 56,000 students across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and the Waikato, with two tutors assigned to each region.

Raglan Area School was one of the first schools in the Waikato to have Te Ahi Ora come and take sessions. The February visit involved all student levels through to year 10s and was followed up with evening fire performances and lessons for the community.

It’s billed as an exciting discipline which “engages the mind, connects with the body, and is incredibly stimulating”. Each classroom session consists of eight basic moves, three combos and two group games.

LIVE AND LOCAL JULY AT THE OLD SCHOOL ARTS CENTRE

MATIAS CEBALLOS

Matias Ceballos is a NZ-based multi-instrumentalist, composer and vocalist, originally from Chile. His original music is influenced by the roots of the native culture, the traditions of Latin America and the identity of the guitar in different countries of Latin America.

In his compositions, Matias mixes styles of Spanish guitar and on stage he will take you on a musical journey, playing different indigenous instruments from Latin America.

Sat July 8th, 7pm. Doors open 6.30pm. $25 presales from matiasceballosmusic.com and $30 door-sales

Door sales $30, pre-sales $25. To book: Lester Silver 021 259 1526, Basan Madhur 021 035 7954

Raglan Ukulele Festival

Raglan Ukulele Festival - will be held on Saturday Sept 9th, with a programme of workshops and concerts. Workshops are for beginner to intermediate players and presented by a mixture of professional musicians and local ukulele enthusiasts. In the afternoon there will be concerts and a strum-along session, followed by an evening concert at the Raglan Club (the evening concert will be open to the public as well as festival participants). Already there is a lot of interest from ukulele groups from Waikato and Auckland regions. Bookings for festival places open soon (numbers strictly limited).

For more infoabout the festival go to: www.ruf.co.nz

Live & Local is taking a short break over the winter.

SOUNDS OF INDIA

Sounds of India is Lester Silver (sitar), Basant Madhur and Akhil Madhur (tabla). These musicians have all trained in the traditional form of North Indian classical music and have been playing and performing both individually and together for many years. Together they present a unique musical experience for audiences in New Zealand, opening a window to this intriguing atmospheric music.

Sat July 29 5.30pm, doors open 5pm. Ticket includes Chai

Liam performs for the whole school at lunchtime.

Liam teaches the kids how to use the staffs.

Matias Ceballos.

‘RETURN-TO-OFFICE’ MANDATES & FLEXIBLE WORKING ARRANGEMENTS WITH

HAYLEY

WILLERS - DTI LAWYERS

In turbulent economic times, having a degree of control over costs, productivity and employees is important. With varying needs and priorities each business will have a different approach to what is considered acceptable as a ‘place of work.’ The important consideration is, who can decide the ‘place of work,’ the employee or the employer?

Covid-19 acted as a compulsory experiment for many businesses to test out flexible and remote work options. However, as Covid’s shadow recedes many businesses can now re-evaluate whether working from home remains an appropriate model to meet the needs of the business, both internally and externally. Large global companies including Tesla, Twitter, Disney, Lyft and Uber have rolled back their work-from-home policies and are now requiring employees to return to the office. Communication was listed as a core concern, followed by the impact on creativity, culture, productivity, and employee supervision.

On the other hand, with rising costs, recession concerns and employee shortages being front of mind for many employers the benefits of work-fromhome arrangements may outweigh any concerns. Flexible working arrangements are a highly desired yet low-cost benefit that can be offered to entice potential employees and retain current employees. With fluctuating priorities and different circumstances, it is important that the changing needs of the business are considered when drafting employee agreements and policies. Ensuring these documents are drafted in a way that allows for future change and does not lock the employer into fixed terms is important to prevent employment issues later down the track.

The employment agreement must state the ordinary place of work for the employee. Any changes to the terms of the employment agreement must be through mutual agreement of the employer and employee. Therefore, the ability for the employer to insist on the employee’s return to work or to change the employee’s place of work will be dependent on what the terms of the employment agreement allow. For an employee, it is important to know and understand the terms of the employment agreement as they are binding on both parties and can prevent the employer from making changes which are central to your employment without consent.

Workplace policies can be more flexible and are generally easier to change if drafted appropriately. Underestimating the importance of the wording in both the employment agreement and workplace policies can cause costly employment implications for businesses further down the track.

Please contact DTI’s specialist employment team should you require a review, and corresponding advice on your current or proposed employment documentation or if you require assistance drafting these documents to best meet the needs of your business.

SOLD

SOLD

Raglan 91b Greenslade Road

What the heart wants

Here’s the one you’ve been waiting for. A tranquil Raglan retreat where you will find peace, rejuvenation, and relaxation. From the moment you arrive you feel there is something uniquely special about this property; it instantly soothes the soul and warms your heart, you know this is the ONE! Fern Cottage is a chalet style home with beautiful rich timber floors, and wooden joinery throughout, perfectly complemented by the high sarked ceilings. bayleys.co.nz/2314531

Raglan 239 Hills Road

1,355 sqm 2 1

For Sale

View by appointment

Stephen O'Byrne 021 969 848 stephen.obyrne@bayleys.co.nz

Michelle O'Byrne 021 969 878 michelle.obyrne@bayleys.co.nz

SUCCESS REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS,LICENSED REAA 2008

Space, views and endless potential

All day sun falls on this impressive 5,204sqm property in a secret spot on the edge of Raglan town. Sought after views of not only the harbour and the majestic Mt Karioi, but also the Raglan bar, with enough space to build two dream homes and have work-fromhome options.

The infrastructure is already in place, including a warm, stylish 1-1/2 storey shed lined, insulated and double-glazed which boasts a log burner, bathroom, kitchen facilities and two decks to enjoy the views. bayleys.co.nz/2314176

5,204 sqm 1 1 1

For Sale

View by appointment

Stephen O'Byrne 021 969 848 stephen.obyrne@bayleys.co.nz

Michelle O'Byrne 021 969 878 michelle.obyrne@bayleys.co.nz

SUCCESS REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS,LICENSED REAA 2008

Raglan 23 Main Road

Price reduced - be quick!

Built in the 1920s, this character-filled villa is ready for new owners to add to its long and interesting history. It started life as the Raglan Police Station and constable’s residence, but after 40-odd years of police work the stunning villa on Main Rd is now a beloved family home. Renovated for modern living, the house has lost nothing of its old-world charm, and features high stud ceilings and polished native wooden flooring throughout imbuing a rich warmth into this stunning property. bayleys.co.nz/2314211

bayleys.co.nz

921 sqm 5 2

Asking Price $1,099,500

View by appointment Mark Frost 022 150 2244 mark.frost@bayleys.co.nz

Stephen O'Byrne 021 969 848 stephen.obyrne@bayleys.co.nz

SUCCESS REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS,LICENSED REAA 2008

Artist's impression

Raglan 26 Rangitahi Road

Lock up and leave, coastal homes

Designed by Red Architecture, West Village offers a diverse collection of sustainable, cost effective, community orientated homes that prioritize sun, expansive harbour views in Raglan's newest coastal community.

Take advantage of this turnkey opportunity with a minimal deposit required to secure your new lock up and leave home or family holiday Bach. Several bedroom options (2-4 beds) are available to suit your family dynamic. Prices from $1,085,000 - $1,575,000. bayleys.co.nz/2313765

Artist's impression

For Sale by Private Treaty

Phone for viewing times

Mark Frost 022 150 2244 mark.frost@bayleys.co.nz

Rachel Waldegrave 021 748 001 rachel.waldegrave@bayleys.co.nz

SUCCESS REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS,LICENSED REAA 2008

Raglan 131 Riria Kereopa Memorial Drive

Architectural waterfront heaven

This pristine waterfront coastal home or family holiday home designed by award winning architect, Malcolm Walker is the perfect place to relax and live your dream coastal lifestyle. Fish for dinner across the road, launch your foil or kite board meters from home or simply walk the dog with the family along the beach. The open plan living area has been designed for all day sun and to maximise the expansive views of the Raglan harbour, famous bar and stunning west coast. bayleys.co.nz/2314658

Artist's impression

825 sqm 3 2 2

Price by Negotiation View by appointment

Mark Frost 022 150 2244 mark.frost@bayleys.co.nz

SUCCESS REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS,LICENSED REAA 2008

Raglan Lot 407 Rangitahi Peninsula

Large premier waterfront section

Secure one of the last premier waterfront sections here at the stunning Rangitahi Peninsula, a homely destination that promises beauty, nature, simplicity, and your own private coastal retreat. Take hold of the opportunity now to design and build your forever coastal home or family holiday Bach. Lot 407 is a large 1015 sqm (more or less) section that will allow you to build an expansive home. bayleys.co.nz/2313472

1,015 sqm

Price by Negotiation Phone for viewing times

Mark Frost 022 150 2244 mark.frost@bayleys.co.nz

SUCCESS REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS,LICENSED REAA 2008

Raglan 7 Koromiko Lane

Fantastic harbour and mountain views

If you are looking for an elevated section to build an amazing home where you will have expansive views across Raglan harbour and Mt Karioi then look no further. A key element to this private and elevated section is that your view will never be built out or changed due to the existing Olive Grove and Reserve immediately below your home. You can create privacy with good planting yet have easy access to the Olive Grove and Reserve where the kids and family pets can run about. bayleys.co.nz/2314480

Raglan 199a Checkley Road

646 sqm

Price by Negotiation

Phone for viewing times

Mark Frost 022 150 2244

mark.frost@bayleys.co.nz

SUCCESS REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS,LICENSED REAA 2008

Immaculate home / shed / office / accommodation

Looking for an idyllic lifestyle property with all the creature comforts and great schooling nearby? Look no further. This beautifully designed two year old Jennian home (with a 10 year master build warranty) was made with families in mind. Featuring a large kitchen, dining and living area connected to a grand north-facing wrap around deck where you can capture expansive rural views. Added bonus is the brand new 175sqm Kiwispan shed complete with kitchenette and bathroom - office or second home. bayleys.co.nz/2314256

3 1 2 2

Price by Negotiation

Phone for viewing times

Mark Frost 022 150 2244

mark.frost@bayleys.co.nz

SUCCESS REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS,LICENSED REAA 2008

Coastal concept with amazing views

This

Water

It takes a True Team to get you the best results.

We don’t just say team, we guarantee it. Professional support, clear communication and the sharing of local knowledge allow us, as a true team, to get the best possible outcome for you.

If you’re looking to buy, sell, invest or have your property managed?Call Property Brokers Raglan on 07 825 7170 or email raglan@pb.co.nz

Waikato Regional Manager

M 027 288 0563

E chris.moore@pb.co.nz

Cathy

Sales Manager

M 021 266 3823

E cathy.oshea@pb.co.nz

Residential/Lifestyle Sales Consultant

M 021 488 766

E jono.hutson@pb.co.nz

Residential/Lifestyle Sales Consultant

M 027 433 6083

E mark.crarer@pb.co.nz

Residential/Lifestyle Sales Consultant

M 027 253 6344

E debbie.crarer@pb.co.nz

Residential/Lifestyle Sales Consultant

M 027 628 8622

E matt.macfie@pb.co.nz

Rural/Residential/Lifestyle Sales Consultant

M 021 624 826

E matt.sweetman@pb.co.nz

Recent sales results speak for themselves

M 027 553 8811

E chas.farrant@pb.co.nz

Branch Administrator E raglan@pb.co.nz

8 Violet Street, Raglan

10 Kaitoke Street, Raglan

1 Koohunga Street, Raglan

2 East Street, Raglan

6 Te Whare Hauora Place, Raglan

Chris Moore

O’Shea

Matt Macfie

Jono Hutson

Debbie Crarer

Matt Sweetman

Mark Crarer

Helen West

THE AGENCY THAT NEVER SLEEPS!

Our doors are open 7 days.

When you require expert advice about all things real estate, our team of specialists have got you covered All Day Every Day.

Whether you’re a vendor, buyer, landlord, or tenant, we’re here to help. Stop by or give us a call.

Adams

RAGLAN 174 Pond Road

Ratanui Farm

This 266.2478ha (more or less) property lies at the foot of the spectacular Te Mata Hills in the peaceful and fertile Kauroa Valley, close to Raglan and handy to Hamilton. A genuinely unique offering in seven titles, the property is renowned for its crystal clear water, lush pastures, ethical farming practices and hospitality.

pggwre.co.nz/HAM37837

3 2 2

PRICE BY NEGOTIATION

Plus GST (if any)

VIEW By Appointment Only

Richard Thomson

M 027 294 8625

E richard.thomson@pggwrightson.co.nz

RAGLAN 3578 State Highway 23

Pretty Productive 38ha

Quality, easy contour, fertile, beautiful, practical, productive and versatile are all words that accurately describe this 38ha property. Located only 6km from Raglan this property can grow almost anything; quality pasture and horticulture with established avocados and citrus orchards nearby to name a few, making this farm suitable for all sorts of opportunities.

pggwre.co.nz/HAM37618

2 1

PRICE BY NEGOTIATION

Plus GST (if any)

VIEW By Appointment Only

Richard Thomson

M 027 294 8625

E richard.thomson@pggwrightson.co.nz

RAGLAN 154 Hills Road

Prepare to be Impressed

This 10.8ha block (more or less) of flat to rolling contour has a long road frontage and multiple breath-taking possible building sites all with impressive rural and ocean views. This property's location, size and setting is a cut above the usual lifestyle blocks or sections in the ever popular Raglan area.

pggwre.co.nz/HAM37806

PRICE BY NEGOTIATION

Plus GST (if any)

VIEW By Appointment Only

Richard Thomson

M 027 294 8625

E richard.thomson@pggwrightson.co.nz

RAGLAN 646 Te Mata Road

Simply Stunning- 3 Titles

Here's your chance to secure 15.0492ha (more or less) of fertile land close to Raglan. The area offers a warm and friendly community, excellent primary school and favourable rainfall for healthy pasture and crops. There are 3 titles here each with a taste of native bush, flat to easy contour, quality soils and amazing views of Mt Karioi.

pggwre.co.nz/HAM37843

$1.2M

Plus GST (if any)

VIEW By Appointment Only

Richard Thomson

M 027 294 8625

E richard.thomson@pggwrightson.co.nz

WAITETUNA 12B Bush View Drive

Solitude, Serenity and Space

Great views, elevation and a sunny lifestyle on an approximately 2.41ha (more or less) section imbued with nature await you here, up a quiet lane mere minutes (3km) from the Waitetuna community. The 302m2 modern, open plan home has strong architectural lines, making a statement with its full height windows and sunken living areas at the heart of the home.

pggwre.co.nz/HAM36981

4 2 2

PRICE BY NEGOTIATION

GST Inclusive

VIEW By Appointment Only

Richard Thomson

M 027 294 8625

E richard.thomson@pggwrightson.co.nz

WAITETUNA 881b Old Mountain Road

Spectacular Lifestyle

Lifestyle properties of this quality don't come along everyday. This modern, comfortable family home on 1.235ha (more or less) had a lot of thought go into it - the layout works exceptionally well with multiple inside and outside areas to enjoy time alone or with family and guests.

pggwre.co.nz/HAM37379

4 2 2

$1.45M

GST Inclusive

VIEW By Appointment Only

Richard Thomson

M 027 294 8625

E richard.thomson@pggwrightson.co.nz

WAITETUNA 11 Parker Access Road

Access Granted

11 Parker Access is an exciting opportunity for those looking for a newly built home in a friendly quiet neighbourhood. Situated on an elevated sunny north facing rise, this quality built and thoughtfully laid out three bedroom home has a huge kitchen, dining and living areas which all flow to a deck built for entertaining.

pggwre.co.nz/HAM37630

3 2 2

$1.4M

GST Inclusive

VIEW By Appointment Only

Richard Thomson

M 027 294 8625

E richard.thomson@pggwrightson.co.nz

WAINGARO 1859 Waingaro Road

Work Hard, Play Hard

1859 Waingaro Road is a private 7ha (more or less) block set amongst native bush and rolling rural countryside. This property has a lovely pocket of native bush and natural springs that could be utilised for stock water.

The two bedroom home is nicely positioned in a sunny elevated spot on the property.

pggwre.co.nz/HAM36918

2 1 2

$800,000

GST Inclusive

VIEW By Appointment Only

Richard Thomson

M 027 294 8625

E richard.thomson@pggwrightson.co.nz

AUTOMOTIVE

BUILDERS

Dylan Botha 0273940981

Dylan@btncarpentry.com BTNcarpentry.com

DOCTOR'S

LAWN CARE/ HANDYMAN

Practice Plus provides virtual telehealth to all patients on weekdays from 5pm-10pm and on weekends and public holidays from 8am to 8pm, register at www.practiceplus.nz

ELECTRICAL

LAWN MOWING, PROPERTY REPAIRS, THOSE ODD JOBS? WE HAVE YOU COVERED! phone: 021 1546409 email: info@jobzdone.net.nz www.jobzdone.net.nz

LAWYERS

MIDWIVES

for friendly and proffesional advice email o ce@webbgould.co.nz

DIRECTORY

green waste drop off. HOURS:

12:30 - 5pm Weekends: 10am - 5pm

Raglan Resource Recovery Centre www.xtremezerowaste.org.nz

RETAIL - SKATE

BUSINESS

For all your scaffolding requirements Ph: 0800 655 655 or email: admin@raglanscaffolding.co.nz. • Low Cost Counselling • Free Budget Service • Drop-in Lounge • OpShop • Rooms for Hire • Justice of the Peace • Alcohol & Drug Services • Youth Programs • Information Technology Support Please contact us for more information Ph: 825 8142 info@raglancommunityhouse.org.nz www.raglancommunityhouse.org.nz 45 Bow Street, Raglan QUICKFIND

CLASSIFIEDS

WHAT’S ON

Notice of Meetings – July 2023

The following meetings will be held during July. All meetings will be held at the Waikato District Council, 15 Galileo Street, Ngaruawahia unless otherwise stated.

COUNCIL

Waikato District Council Monday, 17 July 2023, 9.30am

A number of workshops are scheduled throughout each month for the Council to provide direction, these are on Council’s website under the following link https://www. waikatodistrict.govt.nz/your-council/council-committees-boards/council/council-workshops

COUNCIL COMMITTEES

Infrastructure Wednesday, 5 July 2023, 9.30am

Policy & Regulatory Tuesday, 11 July 2023, 9.30am

Proposed District Thursday, 20 July 2023, 9.00am Plan Sub-Committee **Public Excluded**

Development Agreements Monday, 24 July 2023, 9.30am

COMMUNITY BOARDS/COMMITTEES

Tamahere Tuesday, 4 July 2023, 7.30pm

Community Committee Tamahere Community Centre, 21 Devine Road, Tamahere

Taupiri Community Board Monday 10 July 2023, 6.00pm War Memorial Hall, Greenlane Road, Taupiri

Meremere Thursday, 20 July 2023, 7.00pm

Community Committee Community Hall, Heather Green Ave, Meremere

Tuakau Community Board

Tuesday, 25 July 2023, 6.00pm Tuakau Memorial Hall, George Street, Tuakau

Raglan Community Board Wednesday, 26 July 2023, 1.30pm The Supper Room, Raglan Town Hall, Bow Street, Raglan

Pokeno Monday, 31 July 2023, 7.00pm

Community Committee Pokeno Community Hall, Cnr Great South Road and Market Street, Pokeno

Ngaruawahia

Tuesday, 1 August 2023, 6.00pm

Community Board Committee Room 1 and 2, 15 Galileo Street, Ngaruawahia

Tamahere Tuesday, 1 August 2023, 7.30pm

Community Committee Tamahere Community Centre, 21 Devine Road, Tamahere

Te Kauwhata

Wednesday, 2 August 2023, 7.00pm

Community Committee St John Hall, 4 Baird Ave, Te Kauwhata

Rural-Port Waikato

Thursday, 3 August 2023, 6.30pm

Community Board Pukekawa Community Hall, 38 Clark & Denzie Road, Pukekawa

OTHER DECISION MAKING BODIES

Waters Governance Board

Tuesday, 25 July 2023, 10.00am Committee Rooms 1 and 2

Note: In the event that the business is not concluded on the advertised date, the meeting may be continued on a later scheduled date.

Agendas and minutes for meetings are available at www.waikatodistrict.govt.nz/your-council.

This notice is given under section 46 of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987.

G J Ion Chief Executive 0800 492 452 www.waikatodistrict.govt.nz www.facebook.com/WaikatoDistrictCouncil

CONTACT US TO ADVERTISE info@raglanchronicle.co.nz

MOVIES AT THE OLD SCHOOL

IN WINTER OUR THEATRE IS COSY AND WARM

Services Offered

Houses Wanted for removal

Great prices offered

Call today: 07 847 1760

Public Notices

Raglan Chamber of Commerce

AGM Thursday 27th July 2023

To be held at Old School Arts Centre

Eva’s room at 6pm All welcome Rsvp: accounts@ raglanchamber. co.nz

Sustainable Sewing Day with Sew Love at the Xtreme Zero Waste Whare Ako/Education Room this Sunday 9th July.

PART 1 = 10-12 snackage package class, book your spot www.sewlove.nz

$30

PART 2 = 12-3pm drop in and sew a super easy cloth bag for fresh produce for the supermarket, growers market or bulk bin! FREE

If you don't have a machine that's ok we can borrow some from WEC's Tool Library.

WHĀINGAROA TALENT FACTORY The much-anticipated Live Music Performance from local Rangatahi at the Raglan Town Hall. Saturday July 8 at the from 6.00pm.

RAGLAN 4 SQUARE INDIAN CULTURAL NIGHT Help us celebrate 7 years at Four Square Raglan When: 6:30pm, Friday 7th July. Where: Four Square. Raglan carpark. No parking available on site. Rain Day Saturday 8th July. HENNA, PERFORMANCES, FREE VEGETARIAN BUFFET, PRIZES FOR BEST DRESSED.

CROP SWAP. First and third Sundays of the month. 9.30 -10.30am at Bowling Club, James Street. Bring anything from kitchen or garden to swap – seedlings, plants, produce, preserves, baking. It’s not direct swapping, we share abundance, and everyone gets a bit of everything! All welcome

MUSICIANS NIGHT AT THE YARD - Open Mic night Every Wednesday from 6.30pm kick off at 7pm.

WHAT’S ON @ THE OLD SCHOOL

5 STEWART STREET, RAGLAN

RAGLAN HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY NEXT MEETING

Tuesday 18 July at 1pm in the Church Hall, Stewart Street. Guest speaker Liz Stanway. Floral Art theme – Anniversary. Normal competitions, display table, Garden Vibes, raffle. All welcome.

NOTICE of Annual General Meeting

Public Notices M11874

The Annual General Meeting of The Raglan Community House Charitable Trust will be held on Wednesday, 26th July 2022 at 6pm In basement meeting room

If you would like to attend, please contact us for more information.

Business of the Meeting:

• An Annual Report will be tabled at the meeting

• Apologies and enquiries to: info@raglancommunityhouse.org.nz or (07) 825 8142

5 Stewart St,

Raglan

MATIAS CEBALLOS – A LATIN AMERICAN JOURNEY. Matias mixes styles of Spanish guitar and on stage he will take you on a musical journey, playing different indigenous instruments from Latin America. 7pm, doors open 6.30pm. Presales $25 from https:// matiasceballosmusic.com/events, door sales $30. Licensed bar and café open.

RAGLAN CREATIVE MARKET – SUNDAY 9 JULY 10am – 2pm at the Old School Arts Centre on Stewart St. For more info - www.raglanmarket.com

MATARIKI EXHIBITION – 14 – 28 JULY Local artists Jason Messent & Dallas Mihinui will showcase 7 works of art on canvas signifying the Māori New Year. 14/15/16 July 10-2, then 10-2 weekdays only.

MATARIKI PAINT A BOWL WORKSHOP – SATURDAY 15 JULY 10AM – 12PM Brilliant hands-on fun for everyone over 8 - decorate a pair of dip bowls or other shape to keep as a lasting souvenir of Matariki 2023 - $20 per person, with support from Raglan Naturally. Book online to guarantee your place www. raglanartscentre.co.nz/workshops

MATARIKI COMMUNITY CELEBRATION – FRIDAY 21

JULY Art exhibition, RAS kapa haka performance, mau rakau demonstration with Jeremy Murray, waiata with Wiremu McCarthy, facepainting, Raglan Kindergarten kai fundraiser. Mihi whakatau 5pm, programme of events throughout the evening.

MAKING TEXTURED MUGS – CLAY HAND-BUILDING

FOR ADULTS 4-week programme with Merren

Goodison & Justine Davies | Mondays 24 July – 14 Aug | 6pm – 8pm | $140 RCAC+Clay members $160 RCAC members $180 non-members | Membership, 3kg clay + bisque firing included. Glaze firing extra | Bookings essential www.raglanartscentre.co.nz/workshops

AFTER-SCHOOL ART CLASSES TERM 3 2023 Theme – Funky Fungi | 8-week programme | Mon 24 July – 11 Sept with Belinda Thomas, Thurs 27 July – 14 Sept with Arlene Maidment | 3.30pm – 5pm | $115 first child/$105 sibling | All materials included | Bookings essential www. raglanartscentre.co.nz/workshops

MUSIC AT THE OLD SCHOOL – SATURDAY 29 JULY

Sounds of India – 3 musicians trained in the traditional form of North Indian classical music, presenting a unique musical experience for audiences in New Zealand. 5.30pm, doors open 5pm. Presales $25 from Lester 0212591526 or Basant 0210357954, door sales $30. Ticket includes chai. Licensed bar and café open.

INTERMEDIATE POTTERY WHEEL WORKSHOP

SERIES FOR ADULTS 6-week programme with Sarah Bing | Thursdays 3 Aug – 7 Sept | 7pm – 9.30pm | $280 RCAC+Clay members $260 RCAC members $300 nonmembers | all materials and firing included| Bookings essential www.raglanartscentre.co.nz/workshops

REGULAR EVENTS

Ragtimers Ukulele Group Weekly on Wed, 4pm

Clay Shed Members’ Night Weekly on Wed, 5-7pm

Karioi Quilters Monthly on 2nd Thurs, 10.30am

Raglan Art Group Monthly on 1st Fri, 10am

Backgammon Club Monthly on last Fri, 5pm

Mens’ Group Wed 29 Mar then every other week, 7pm