The Weekend Sun 29 December 2014 by Sun Media

29 December 2014, Issue 732 Pr

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Splashes and clashes Swimmers, young and old, are strapping on goggles to push through the waves in two water-filled Bay events this weekend, which will each bring endurance-testers out of the woodwork. On January 3 swimmers line up for the annual Murray Dingle Memorial Bridge to Bridge swim. Then on January 4, Harry Low, 13, and Matthew Wagstaff, 11, pictured here will be among more than 250 swimmers racing from Pilot Bay in the 32nd edition of the Round the Mount swim. To learn more about the gut-busting events, see page 4. Photo by Tracy Hardy.

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Thank you Sun readers The Weekend Sun wants to thank its almost 65,000 readers for a fantastic a year. Thanks for all the calls, emails, letters, visits and photos during 2014, we’ve loved creating the Bay’s most well-read community newspaper that focuses on community in every way possible. The Weekend Sun team is taking a break during the festive season, but we’ll be back in the New Year. The first edition for 2015 is on January 9, so watch your letterboxes. To keep up with what’s happening during the break, go to SunLive.co.nz – because the Bay’s best online news site is manned 24/7 to cover the region’s breaking news and holiday fun. Call in your news tips to 0800 SUNLIVE or email holiday pictures to newsroom@thesun.co.nz

The Weekend Sun

The Weekend Sun is published every Friday, circulating throughout the Western Bay of Plenty, delivered free to 64,980 homes of more than 159,700 residents from Waihi Beach, through Katikati, Tauranga, Mt Maunganui, Papamoa and Te Puke including rural and residential mailboxes. The Weekend Sun is produced by Sun Media Ltd, an independent and locally owned company based at 1 The Strand, Tauranga.

Sun Media Ltd Directors: Claire & Brian Rogers Editorial: Andrew Campbell, Hamish Carter, Letitia Atkinson, Hunter Wells, Elaine Fisher, Zoe Hunter, Luke Balvert, Merle Foster, David Tauranga Photography: Tracy Hardy, Bruce Barnard. Advertising: Kathy Sellars, Suzy King, Lois Natta, Rose Hodges, Aimee-Leigh Brunsdon, Tasha Paull, Lucy Pattison, Bianca Lawton, Cath Jump, Doug Britton (as himself). Design Studio: Kym Johnson, James Carrigan, Sarah Adamson, Kerri Wheeler, Kyra Duffy, Amy Bennie. Digital Media: Lauren McGillivray, Jay Burston. Office: Julie Commerer, Melanie Stone, Kathy Drake.

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Fabulous and Groovy Awards for 2014 The Sun newsroom has painstakingly pored over the year’s headlines and judged for your reading pleasure, the 2014 Awards for contribution to the community and incredulity. Here they are, in no particular order… Horticulturalists of the Year: The Tauranga City Council, for propagation of the Black Mould. Fungus of the Year: The Tauranga City Council’s black mould. For surviving in a hot air atmosphere. Hero of the Year #1: Tauranga 13-year-old Rhyhan Faithfull. For attempting to save a drowning man’s life. Hero of the Year #2: Greerton station officer Steve Wright. For spending half an hour rescuing a “tiny kitten” from under the dashboard of a “tiny vehicle”. The Blowfly Award: Murray Guy, for not going away when he’s swatted. Standing again for TCC. Freedom award of the Year: Phillip Smith, for our borders have no control! Belly flop of the Year: Dotcom for leaving no water in the pool for the Tamihere clan. After his masterstroke political stunt. Dodged Bullet of the Year: Cyclone Lusi. Marketing Fail of the Year: The few event organisers who signed into “exclusive” media marketing deals with the other newspaper, then found their events were not so well attended. Event Management 101: Promote with the largest circulating, best read newspaper; because deliberately missing out is event management harikari! Better still, support the locally-owned media with the big coverage, putting back into your community. The ‘Whoops I did it again’ Award: Phil Rudd. The ‘What a man, what a man’ Award: David Cunliffe The ‘Really mate, just because you can

read doesn’t mean you know a WOF from a woof ’ Award: Every single TCC parking warden past, present and future. The ‘We want a vibrant, humming, well populated CBD, so let’s turn prime waterside real estate into a carpark and make rents ridiculously high cause that’s just smart’ Award: TCC The ‘Putting the ‘mutiny’ back into ‘community’ Award: TCC Attention Seeker of the Year: Kim Dotcom – although he probably shouldn’t get this award as his party didn’t make it into Parliament. So maybe give him Failed Attention Seeker of the Year. Wine of the Year: Mills Reef Reserve Merlot Malbec. Runners-Up Wine Award: Really any wine would do. Best Thing We’ve Heard: The Andrew London Trio. Funny and brilliant musically. Live at the Omokoroa Boat Club. Which by the way, wins Venue of the Year.

Most Annoying Person of the Year: Dotcom. No contest. We just wish he’d bugger off. Best Eating Place: Brooklyn, on The Strand. Great food, nice folk, neat venue. Best New Politician: Todd Muller. Seriously nice guy and a hard worker. Best Old Politician: Ian McLean. Not really old, but you know what I mean. Committed to the environment, strums a mean mandolin. Most Annoying Device of the Decade: The leaf blower. They

must have been invented in Guantanamo Bay. Racists of the Year: Waikato Police for admitting they’d treat an Irish tourist driver differently to a local. (In the case of the sideways kayak). Defence Force Star of the Year: Sub Lt Kevin Duncan, recipient of the Minister of Defence Sword, for all round potential brilliance. Nephew of the Year: Kevin Duncan. For winning a bloody big knife from Gerry. Shoe of the Year: Crocs. They win every year. The Navy should try them. Quote of the Year: Re Crocs: “Those little holes, that’s where all your dignity leaks out”. Runner up Quote of the Year: Phil Rudd, AC/DC: “I'm going fishing, flying this afternoon and lots of fornicating tonight”. The Most Cunning and Profitable Media Person of the Year: Nicky Hager for publishing ‘Dirty Politics’ right before the election. The earnings should keep him going till right before the next election. Swamp Plant of the Year: Mangroves. Someone has to stand up for them. Volunteer of the Year: My crewmate Gavin Brown, from Coastguard. For looking out for his mates. Crane Driver of the Year: Ben Rogers, McLeod Cranes. No favouritism here. Okay, so maybe some. Wife of the Year: It’s a draw; both of you. (I hope you never meet). Husband of the Year: No nominations received. Headline of the Year: The Rogers Rabbits Fabulous and Groovy Awards. Strange, it wins every year. Have a great new year and take care. brian@thesun.co.nz

IMPORTANT STUFF: All material is copyright and may not be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. Sun Media makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information and accepts no liability for errors or omissions or the subsequent use of information published. Crocs Inc. is a shoe manufacturer founded by Scott Seamans, Lyndon “Duke” Hanson, and George Boedecker, Jr.to produce and distribute a foam clog design acquired from a Quebec company called Foam Creations. The shoe had originally been developed as a spa shoe. The first model produced by Crocs, the Beach, was unveiled in 2002 at the Ft. Lauderdale Boat Show in Florida. Today the company sells millions worldwide.

CRICKET

The Weekend Sun

Swapping science for summer Zach Latif and Jesse Morgan and ladies Brittany WatersBright, Alex Gardner, Melanie Knottenbelt get ready to spread summer messages.

A PACKED SUMMER OF

CRICKET

Photo by Tracy Hardy.

Tauranga’s Melanie Knottenbelt is swapping science studies for sun, sand and surf this summer holidays as she diches the lab coat for a navy blue summer ambassadors T-shirt. As one of the six Tauranga City Council Summer Ambassadors, the 20-year-old Otago University Bachelor of Science student will be out and about with fellow ambassadors spreading important summer messages about liquor-free zones, buses, events and New Year’s Eve information, from 10am-4.30pm daily until January 11. Based at the Beach Base below Mount Drury, the young advisors will also be handing out summer passports and other giveaways

to beachgoers. Melanie saw the opportunity on Student Job Search while at university and applied straight away. “The job description was talking to locals and helping them out and walking around the beach, which are some of the things I like to do. “I have worked in hospitality before so I enjoy that line of work – and you get to be out in the sun and everything and on the beach with everyone which is always good fun. “It’s just a good way to spend the summer holidays for a short period of time.” Bay of Plenty born and bred, Melanie has a good idea of how to spend the summer holidays. “Summer is getting out there and enjoying the sun, having fun with the family and catch-

ing up with friends – and getting involved with what’s on. “I just enjoy having a break from university and getting out there, trying new things.” Look out for the summer ambassadors at the Beach Base, or keep an eye out on the beaches, in the streets and at shopping areas for the 2014/2015 Summer Ambassadors. “We’re all friendly and are happy to help,” says Melanie. The Hits Beach Bach will also be running next to the Beach Base, with Will Johnston presenting live from the site running games and giveaways – and of course the popular, free, daily midday barbecue. For more information, visit www.tauranga.govt.nz or the Hey Tauranga Facebook page.

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Life on SunLive in 2014

The Bay of Plenty has seen an assortment of stories this year – and through it all, the SunLive team has made good on our motto of delivering the Bay’s news first. But one story on October 1 stopped a city – and a region – in its tracks, and drew the nation’s gaze to this corner of NZ for the very worst of reasons. No amount of words could do justice to the grief caused by five-year-old Jack Dixon’s disappearance from a secluded beach at Mount Maunganui, and the outpouring of emotion from a community in shock was as strong as the wave that took him. Through dark days, an unmistakable message was relayed to Jack’s family on every platform imaginable, be it seaside vigils or social media. It was clear: You are not alone. What Jack’s family are feeling as they navigate the holiday season without their little boy is unimaginable, but that bleak day didn’t just display a community’s strength and resolve, it framed it in bold and underlined it. Unshakeable support was felt down every phoneline, in every email and through every message to SunLive’s newsroom following – many from readers simply wanting to reach out in any way they could. So there’s proof, that when adversity does strikes one of its own, the community pulls on its boots, takes them by the hand and walks with them.

Looking forward

SunLive’s reach continues to spread, with the site consistently placing third nationally behind big-hitters Stuff and the NZ Herald. The growth of our Facebook community gives a unique window into life in the Bay and its inclusive and interactive nature has brought our readers closer, keeping them up-to-date 24/7. Our well-used comments section often sparks intense debate, showing what’s important to the region’s population and what makes them tick. But our readers are the beating heart of SunLive, and we’d like to thank each and every one of you who took the time to call us, drop us an email, send us a pic or throw us a comment in the last 12 months. Keep them coming, and let’s do it all again in 2015.

The stunning backdrop of Mauao and Mount Main Beach will once again provide the perfect setting for swimmers taking part in two swimming events synonymous with a Bay of Plenty summer. On January 4 more than 250 swimmers are forecast to set off from Pilot Bay in the 32nd edition of the Round the Mount swim in what looks set to be a hotly-contested race for the title. While 24 hours earlier swimmers, both young and old, will line up for the annual Murray Dingle Memorial Bridge to Bridge swim – a 1500m from the Sebel Trinity Hotel to the railway bridge by Harbourside Restaurant. Shorebreak Aquatics event manager Sheryl McLay says both events are looking as popular as ever, with a late flurry of people expected to enter on the day too.

“I’m pretty sure it [Round the Mount] will be every bit as big as it has been in recent years; as long as the weather behaves itself.” In the men’s division is some strong competition for the title including Mount Maunganui’s Perry Farrell and Wellington’s Ben Campbell-Macdonald – both podium placers in recent years. Adding another level of intrigue is the return of a 7.5km distance set aside for 28 participants, picked from their entry times – including NZ 1500m record-holder and Greerton swimmer Nathan Capp tentatively added if it suits his training commitments. The long distance sees the swimmers continue along

Main Beach, clockwise around Rabbit Island before returning to the Main Beach finishline. “It’s one of those swims that you have to actually prepare properly for it,” says Sheryl. “It’s not like ducking down and doing a 1500m or a 2km swim, it has enough of a challenge with it that you have to think about.” Sheryl says the Murray Dingle Memorial Bridge to Bridge on January 3 will provide a perfect warmup for the top swimmers who tend to race both events, along with all levels of athlete. “Quite a number of them do the Bridge to Bridge as a warm up but what we also get at bridge to bridge is lots of kids, which is pretty cool. “The children tend to start out with Bridge to Bridge and then progress to round the Mount.” Perry and Ben loom as favourites for the January 3 race, while Hamilton’s Sarah Mortimer could take line honours in the women’s field. The Bridge to Bridge race gets underway at 2pm on January 3 and the Round the Mount swim starts 8.30am at Pilot Bay on January 4. By Luke Balvert

Matthew Wagstaff, 11, Harry Low, 13, Jan Lichtwark, 42, and Tim Mills, 36, will be competing in the Round the Mount swim. Photo by Tracy Hardy.

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Top stories for 2014: Child sea search at first light (Oct 1) Christmas cruelty for Bayfair boy (Dec 12) Snow on Kaimai Ranges (July 22) ‘Toxic’ fire in Papamoa (Nov 11) iPhone 6 thief caught red handed (Nov 14) Body found on Mount (Nov 24) Drop in dollar would be welcome (Sept 28) Rudd back in police custody (Dec 4) Comedian’s secret love (Oct 5) Armed police close roads (July 30) Hoarding artist strikes again (Sept 5) Popular Mount bar faces closure (Oct 14) Shock at Karangahake Gorge mining (Sept 10) Bank robbery – CCTV footage (Oct 10) Water works for Baypark (Jan 16) AC/DC drummer on bail (Nov 6) Fire victim thanks hero officer (July 7) Maungatapu fatal: driver charged (Jan 8) Homicide investigation in Ohauiti (Nov30)

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5 Volunteers Scott Jones and Gareth Yates with surfer Janette Barclay on the new chair. Photo by Tracy Hardy.

Beach freedom

Disabled people with mobility issues on sand will have the opportunity get to the Mount’s waterline this summer with a donated, free-to-use adjustable beach wheelchair.

The beach wheelchair is one of five being donated to regions around the country by the Flightcentre Foundation, to see disabled people hit the sand and sea more often. The move to provide beach wheelchairs came out of a Halberg Disability Surf Day at Mount Maunganui on December 13. The inaugural event, which saw about 15 physically disabled people have a chance to surf, was hosted by the Halberg Disability Sport Foundation as part of the Flight Centre Foundation Halberg Surf Programme. At the event one adjustable beach wheelchair was donated to the area for disabled people to use at Mount Main Beach. Halberg disability sport adviser Cherryl Thompson says the wheelchair will be held by Hibiscus Surf School for disabled people to use to get onto the beach or into the water.

“This equipment will enable wheelchair users to be able to traverse beaches and roll straight into the water. “So over the summer it’ll be down on the beach with Hibiscus Surf School – so anyone going to the Mount who can’t get down from the sand dunes to the shoreline can use this chair,” says Cherryl. Feedback from the surf days is very positive, with Cherryl saying some participants now want to join surf clubs. “And this is what it’s all about – we’re trying to empower the community to assist disabled people to get out and do what everybody else does.” “So our next job is trying to set up clubs by training and resourcing, and inviting people to come and try it. “From that a couple of kids will want to take up surfing – even if it’s just for recreation.” Cherryl says the surf days and beach wheelchairs also show parents “what they’re able to do with their disabled family member”. The Mount’s adjustable beach wheelchair will be on offer all summer. “Anybody with a disability can go to the beach and use it – it doesn’t matter how young or old you are or what disability you have,” says Cherryl. By Merle Foster

The Weekend Sun

Calling all beach babes

By Zoe Hunter

Registrations for Miss Mount Maunganui 2014 are now open. Thomas-Long says judges will be looking for fun, lively and confident people, with 27 the cut-off age for Miss and Mr Mount entrants. “ZM Miss Mount is an event targeting the young beach-goers. But if we have a hottie who is 30 years old they should definitely still enter. The summer competition on December 31 invites “This is more of a guideline – we are flexible.” bikini-clad babes to grace the iHeart Radio beach stage Sanctum Beauty Therapy and Spa and other in a bid to be crowned Miss Mount Maunganui 2014. Tauranga businesses are offering some major prizes, Tots and teens are also invited on stage for the Little with the winner of Miss Mount 2014 featured in Miss Sunshine and Miss Teen Mount competitions, ‘Girlfriend Magazine’. with the fellas encouraged to strut their stuff too for ZM Miss Mount Maunganui 2014 is at the iHeart the returning Mr Mount event. Radio stage at Mount Main Beach on December 31 NZME brand engagement co-ordinator Monique from 3pm. Register online at www.zmonline.com

Care for Chrissy ‘Chrissy’ was found with her two kittens and nowhere to go. Her two kittens have since been adopted into loving new homes and now she’s ready for her own new family. She’s still a young cat, at just one-and-ahalf years old, very affectionate and she just loves attention. All of ARRC’s cats for adoption have been de-sexed and vet-checked, and cost $60 to adopt to help with some of the vet costs. If you’d like to meet Chrissy, or one of our other lovely cats, please ring ARRC’s foster carer Maureen on 07 578 8335 or have a look at www.arrc.org.nz or Facebook.

Bikini bods and beauties will be the centre of attention this New Year’s Eve when the annual ZM Miss Mount Maunganui competition returns.

Give Hugo a loving home My name is Hugo and I’m a gorgeous seven-year-old male beardie-cross. I came to the SPCA with a nasty wound to my neck from a collar that was too tight and left on me for far too long. I was stitched up at the vets and I’ve made a full recovery. I’m looking for my new loving forever home with wonderful people who’ll not leave me tied up for long periods of time and who’d like to add an older calmer dog to their family. I’m a very kind and love people but I can be a little intolerant of other dogs jumping on me so it’s probably best my new home is a one-pooch household with no small children. Please come in and meet me if you’d like to add a sweet older dog to your family. Or call 07 578 0245. Ref no. 20751.

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A ‘rad’ end to 2014 The drinks may not be flowing for 16-year-olds Rory Priest, Cormac Seymour and Jake Nicholas this New Year’s Eve – but the “good tunes and sweet vibes” will be. The talented teens are possibly the youngest band to be part of the celebratory line-up on the iHeart Beach Stage at Mount Maunganui Main Beach on New Year’s Eve. “I think that gets us a bit closer to the crowd because we’re the same age as most of them,” says Cormac. “We’re not 18 so we can’t play in the pubs. “But we’ll have the good tunes and sweet vibes flowing – it’ll be rad.” Their band Joe’s Van will be performing in the 9am-10.30pm slot on December 31 – and

the boys are “pretty stoked” to be sharing their sounds with the crowd. “We’re pretty prepared and are feeling pretty good about it,” says Cormac. They’re also pretty relaxed about the big gig, fitting in rehearsals when the mood is right. “We kind of just jam more than rehearse because if we start practising seriously it takes the fun out of it – and that’s what we’re all about aye.” The chilled-out trio’s 2015 plan is to keep jamming, having fun and getting their music out there and into the ears of Bay of Plenty listeners. “We’re just going to keep at it, because it’s pretty rad.We like what we’re doing.” They wish everyone a happy New Year, safe holidays and a “rad” end to 2014.

By Zoe Hunter

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Joe’s Van band members Jake Nicholas on base and vocals, Cormac Seymour on guitar and Rory Priest with his drums are ready to send off 2014. Photo by Bruce Barnard.

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Watchful eye on penguins For many Kiwi families hitting the beach at summer marks excitement and fond memories, but spare a thought for the young penguins of Mauao leaving their nests to venture out in to the world for the first time. This summer many dead penguins will be found along the beach, with the Mauao Area Wildlife Trust urging the public to do their bit and help keep the species safe. More than 700 penguins in the Mauao area are currently microchipped for scientific studies the trust is running on the life of the penguins in the area. Mauao Area Wildlife Trust projects manager Dave Richards says during December and January, hundreds of young penguins leave their nests for the first time to venture out in to the world on their own. And life isn’t as easy for a young penguin as it may be for a human, because with no parental support once a penguin leaves the nest up to 80 per cent of the young won’t survive their first few weeks alone. Dave says the reasons are varied, but in the end it comes down to the survival of those that can adapt to life alone and can find enough food. “For people walking the beaches of the Bay during this time, it is common to see a lone, sad-looking penguin sitting on the beach or struggling in the waves. “The bird is not sunbathing or enjoying the surf – it is most likely close to death due to starvation.” Ahead of the busy penguin season the trust is releasing helpful tips in case a member of the public

stumbles across one of the birds in need. These include putting dogs on a lead, if they have one, carefully picking up the penguin and wrapping it in a dry towel or shirt and ring the Mauao Area Wildlife on 021 077 6851 to arrange collection. If someone takes a bird home keep it wrapped warm in a dark box in a quiet room until a trust member comes to collect it – and do not put the penguin in water. Dave encourages the community to stop for a moment this summer and soak up the penguins in their natural habitat – whether it is floating on the water and diving down hunting for food or coming ashore at night to feed their young. “They are an integral part of what makes the Bay By Luke Balvert such a special place.”

Plenty for everyone Keen photographers are encouraged to hover their fingers over the shutter to snap their best photos to enter in the Photographic Society of New Zealand’s 63rd annual convention and exhibition. A selection of the most eye-catching shots will be displayed at the 2015 ‘Exploring Pixels’ exhibition, hosted by Tauranga Photographic Society, at Tauranga Racecourse from April 29-May 3. Aspiring shutterbugs are encouraged to start snapping their photographs from January 1 to March 20, with

images to be submitted between February 1 and March 31. Entries can be uploaded to media@bayofplentynz.com with the subject line: photography competition entry. Or go to www.sunlive. co.nz under the competitions section. Photographers are asked to spontaneously capture the natural beauty of the region or show family and friends enjoying what the Bay of Plenty has to offer. The National Photography Exhibition’s convention – dubbed Natex – will showcase about 350 high quality printed images and 200 projected images, open for public viewing on May 2.

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Dictionary donation for decile one school Their smiles and excitement says it all. The way the pupils engage in this brightly-coloured illustrated book – you’d never guess it’s a dictionary Merivale School Year 5 pupils Te Ihi Hemopo, 10, Annie-Lee Tukaki-Johnson, 9, Jade Walker, 10, Hemi Ormsby, 10, and Cody-Rei Hunapo-Harrison, 9. they’re holding. It’s called ‘The Usborne Illustrated pages, the dictionary is one of the ing at home and at school.” Dictionary’ – and Merivale School’s Former Rotary International best Jan says she’s ever worked with. 17 Year 5 pupils are loving it. world president Bill Boyd visited the “[That’s] because of the pictorial School principal Jan Tinetti can school in late-November to personnature of it and the fact that it’s a almost guarantee her Year 5s will be ally donate the dictionaries to very easy one for the children to doing homework during the school the Merivale pupils. navigate their way through. holidays, with their new dictionaries Bill believes many children in low “It’s colour-coded and the kids gifted by Otumoetai Rotary Club. decile schools struggle with aspects actually have favourite pages. “They really love it,” says Jan, of English or literacy, so it’s hugely “Now I never had favourite pages who reckons the dictionaries will important for these pupils to have in my dictionary when I was growset them up beautifully for their last access to this learning tool. ing up.” year at the school in 2015. “It’s interesting because you get the The book retails for about $30 – a “Because it’s such an engaging odd person who says dictionaries are figure Jan believes most parents of dictionary, they’ll actually sit there old news and nowadays everybody children at the decile one school and read it.” looks up spelling on the computer,” can’t afford to throw around. Featuring about 1000 illustrations, says Bill. “It’s theirs to take home. This 10,000 entries and 20,000 defini“But these are much more than allows them to have this important tions printed in full colour on 288 just spelling.” tool to help them with their learnBy Zoe Hunter

Asia scholarships open The Prime Minister’s Scholarships for Asia programme – enabling students from throughout New Zealand to study at Asian institutions in some of our key markets – is now open for applications. The aim is to enable young Kiwis to build important and enduring relationships and their international skills as they study and travel in the region so they can contribute to New Zealand’s economic future. The next round of scholarships close March 30, 2015. See http://enz.govt.nz/how-we-work/scholarships/pmsa

Library on the move

The Greerton Library is moving to temporary premises in February 2015 so the original building can be demolished and rebuilt. The $3.5 million development will see the library double in size and open up on to the Greerton Village Green. It will include a computer-based learning area with workstations and a meeting room with exterior doors accessible for community use after-hours. During the rebuild the library will lease empty commercial premises in Greerton.

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Harris’ lofty expectations

Chiefs and All Black hooker Nathan Harris enjoying some downtime during rehabilitation in Papamoa.

For a guy who dreamt of becoming nothing more than a Bay of Plenty Steamer, the sky’s the limit it seems for Nathan Harris, who this year took his first steps as the next generation of All Black. September 28, 2014, marks a special date in the Harris household with the 22-year-old capping a meteoric rise, running out as an All Black against Argentina in Buenos Aries and in the process eclipsing a conversation he had with parents Quentin and Barbara upon leaving high school. “I actually said to my parents I would be happy if I was a Steamer. “So that was my main aspiration out of school. “Obviously, people from smaller towns don’t tend to make it or having other distractions like working and focusing on that because rugby doesn’t pay the bills.” Rewind 12 months and this was the case with the Te Puke product just called into the Chiefs Super Rugby squad for a fortnight following Hika Elliot’s season ending neck injury – without the slightest clue his rugby career was set to skyrocket. The rest is hearsay with the Te Puke rake going on to usurp incumbents Rhys Marshall and Mahonri Schwalger, playing 410 minutes in 12 games for the Chiefs, gaining three Test caps with the All Blacks and a test try. Yet he still can’t really explain how it has all happened. “[This year] 2014 was a dream, to be honest I still can’t put it down to anything.” And despite having his season cruelly ended five

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Cheaper cover beware I was contacted by a client saying they wanted to cancel their life insurance cover because the bank had offered cover at a much cheaper premium. I always get a bit sceptical when I hear the offer of cheaper premiums, especially when it’s a claim made by a bank. To their credit the clients afforded me the opportunity to first discuss what it was the bank had done for them, as they compared to the were replacing compre44 they already had. hensive cover they’d had in It ceased at age 65, place a long time. By Peter Grifﬁn from compared to no age On the face of it, it Planwise Financial Services limit on their looked like they were existing cover. getting value for money. They The Total Permanent Disability had been given life cover, critical benefit was only paid out if they conditions insurance and total and could do no job of any descrippermanent disability. But when we looked a little deeper they were tion. Whereas their existing cover paid out in the event of not being being offered an inferior product. able to do just their own job. The critical conditions cover And worse still, they had ended only covered seven conditions

the

up with exclusions they hadn’t got with their existing cover. The Government places financial advisers under strict guidelines around replacing business. The first rule is the clients’ interests should always be placed first and they should not be disadvantaged. It is clear this was not the situation here. So talk to a professional adviser before deciding to accept the enticement of cheaper premiums!

Beware of the holiday crims THE MOUNT

DRYCLEANERS

It’s that time of the year but unfortunately even in the Bay of Plenty it’s not all ho-ho-ho, gifts and goodwill to all men. The fraudsters love the festive season too. It’s a time of rich pickings for them because the carefree, spend up and be merry spirit presents them with wide opportunity. That’s why the New Zealand Bankers’ Association is urging us to beware of card fraud during the holidays. “Enjoy but be vigilant,” says NZBA chief executive Kirk Hope. “At this time it pays to keep your guard up when using bank and credit cards, when you’re out shopping or having a few drinks with friends and family.” So whether you’re using an Eftpos terminal to buy gifts, getting cash from an ATM, or buying a round at your local pub, here are some tips on how to keep your card safe and how to ensure your money stays your money. • Guard your card. Treat it like cash. Don’t leave it lying around. Make sure you know where your card is at all times.

• Protect your pin. Never tell anyone your pin or passwords – not the Police, bank staff, friends or family. Sounds paranoid but it’s the safe way. • Cover up. When entering your pin at ATMs and Eftpos terminals, shield the pin pad with your other hand. Criminals may ‘skim’ your card details by attaching a device to the card reader, and then ‘shoulder surf ’ or use hidden cameras to record your pin. • Check your statements and advise your bank immediately of any unauthorised transactions. Banks work hard to protect their customers from financial crime but they can’t do it on their own. “It requires a joint effort” says Kirk. “By protecting your card and pin, you’re helping protect yourself and your money.” The bank will reimburse any losses if you’re the genuine victim of fraud. But that promise doesn’t override your responsibility to protect access to your accounts. “If, for example, you give your pin number away, you won’t be covered.” So beware, be safe and have a ‘cool yule’.

New fund for young entrepreneurs The government has launched a new Youth Enterprise Fund to help young people become entrepreneurs. The aim is to grow the next generation of confident citizens, who can contribute to their communities and make their mark in ways that deliver cultural, economic and environmental benefits. The fund will make $2 million available during the next three years for projects that provide hands-on learning opportunities to help youth develop entrepreneurial skills and know ledge. The skills and attributes the fund aims to foster include leadership, communication, innovation, problem solving, environmental and social responsibility, personal management and resilience. Funding is available for new or existing projects, including internships, business start-ups and mentoring opportunities. Projects can be in a school, tertiary, business or community setting. Applications close January 16, 2015. For more information, see www.myd.govt.nz/funding/ youth-enterprise-initatives-fund.html

By Hunter Wells

New jobs for the Mount

Industrial engineering company South Pacific Industrial Limited is opening a branch in Mount Maunganui in February 2015 and expects to employ 40-50 staff within the next six months. This will be SPIND’s third New Zealand site for the company, which was set up in Ruakaka, Northland in 1975 and added an operation in Auckland 18 months ago. And it is now expanding to meet increased demand. The company, with 200 staff, is looking for skilled tradespeople, including fitter/welders, boilermakers, registered electricians and instrument technicians. SPIND has clients in the oil and gas sector, as well as the agri-industry in Tauranga. The company is also developing a new product with export potential, so proximity to Port of Tauranga was also a key consideration.

The Weekend Sun

Digging for treasure Sand is expected to fly as children ditch the buckets and spades to dig for buried treasure at Mount Maunganui’s annual beach dig in 2015. The 93.4 More FM Mount McDonald’s Beach Dig invites children to hunt through the sand at Mount Main

Beach for buried ping-pong balls in exchange for treasure on January 6. More FM operations manager Jolene James says the beach dig has been a summer tradition for about 15 years. “We had about 500 people there last year and we’re expecting about the same again. It seems to get bigger every year. It’s lots of fun.”

Karise, 2, and Tasman, 4, McHutchison and Peyton Duffy, 6, perfect their sand-digging skills for the Mount beach dig on January 6. Photo by Tracy Hardy. Children aged two-11 are invited year is very valuable and a great slap and wrap too.” to enter, with a separate digging chance for beachgoers to support The 93.4 More FM Mount area for children aged two-five. them too.” McDonalds Sand Sculpture is also Entry is a gold coin donation, Major prizes include $75 worth on January 14. with all funds going towards the of Mount Maunganui McDonalds From 10.30am, families are Mount Maunganui Lifeguard vouchers and more. The More FM encouraged to create giant sand Service's Junior Surf Programme. Mount McDonalds Beach Dig is sculptures in front of the Mount “More FM are official sponon January 6 on the sand directly Surf Club at Mount Main Beach. sors of the lifeguard service,” says opposite Mount Surf Club. Entry is free for all ages and the Jolene. “It’s the way we support Jolene is encouraging people to first 50 people receive a free small them every year and obviously register before 10.30am on the cheeseburger combo voucher from what they do on the beach every day. “Don’t forget to slip, slop, McDonalds. By Zoe Hunter

Hook some family fishing fun in the sun Keen fishing families are encouraged to head out to their favourite fishing spots this summer in an effort to bag the biggest fish for The Hits 95FM annual fishing competition. Sponsored by Broncos Outdoors, The Hits Fishing Competition on January 4 invites fishers of all ages to The Hits Beach Bach below Mount Drury before heading out to try and hook the heaviest fish. NZME brand engagement co-ordinator Monique Thomas-Long says the competition is all about having fun and giving it a go. “Bring the kids in the morning and check, then head out all day and fish in your secret spot.”

Beach sports and sandcastle fun

The Waihi Beach Surf Club is hosting a day of beach sports on New Year’s Day. The event is free to all and starts at 11am. And on January 2, the surf club is hosting a Sandcastle Competition. Registration is at 1.30pm, and 2pm-4pm. Entry is via gold coin donation. For more information on the events, contact Waihi Beach Surf Club on 07 863 5108.

People can register for the competition at The Hits Beach Bach on Sunday, January 1 from 10.30am, head to their favourite or secret fishing spots and drop their lines until January 4. Monique says they can fish anywhere and any way they like, as long as they’re back in time for the weigh in and prizegiving at the beach bach at 1pm on January 4. Thanks to Broncos Outdoors there’s heaps of prizes up for grabs for first, second and third in each age category, says Monique. “This competition is designed for families. Prizes are broken down for kids and adults and some sneaky fun prizes are in there too – including a prize By Zoe Hunter for the ugliest fish.”

Must-dos in the Bay

Four Bay of Plenty tourist attractions have made the annual AA 101 Must Do list for travellers. They are Bay of Plenty Islands Tours, Karangahake Gorge, Te Puna Quarry Park and ENZED V8 Jetsprints. The 101 Must Do’s list for Kiwis was launched in 2006 and is hugely successful with people throughout New Zealand voting on their favourite experiences. This year the list has been specifically designed for summer activities.

The Weekend Sun

A Wellington Firebirds batsman in full swing against the Northern Knights at Bay Oval during the 2013/2014 Ford Trophy season.

Knights chase Bay win Swashbuckling white ball cricketing action returns to the Bay Oval in the New Year and with it a Northern Knights side intent on a change in fortune, to an end to a trio of luckless outings. On January 1 and January 4 the Knights will push their claim in the annual Ford Trophy in Mount Maunganui, looking to go one better and lift this season’s domestic One Day International trophy. Last season the Knights fell to the Wellington Firebirds in the final at the Bay Oval – and January 1, 2015, presents a prime opportunity to exact some revenge on the Wellingtonian’s who are fresh from winning the Georgie Pie Super Smash T20. Three days later the side takes on the Otago Volts, who in recent seasons have been a shortform frontrunner.

“We’re looking forward to it [the Ford Trophy]. It’s a big thing for New Zealand as we have got the World Cup coming up afterwards,” says Northern Knights coach James Pamment. “One day matches are going to be the thing this year.” In a dash of extra spice the competition’s early rounds give fringe Blackcaps the chance to stake a claim for a spot in the 15-man World Cup squad, jointly hosted by NZ and Australia in February. While Bay of Plenty’s Blackcaps, Kane Williamson, Trent Boult and Corey Anderson, won’t be available due to national duty, up to half of dozen BOP players could wear the Knights’ uniform at the Bay Oval next month. Northern Knights captain and Bay product Daniel Flynn is one Pamment is touting to have a strong season, while Anton Devicich and new Knights recruit Dean Brownlie will both be keen to secure a World Cup spot.

Pamment says it was disappointing to lose all three matches at the Bay venue last season but he remains confident for January’s outings. “The intention is to play some good cricket, enjoy ourselves and see where that takes us. “Wellington and Otago are two of the better short-form teams in NZ over the last couple of years.” The Knights return to Bay Oval on January 21 for their final Ford Trophy round robin clash versus the Auckland Aces. The Ford Trophy is the NZ Cricket Limited Over (50 overs per team) prize dating back to the 1971-1972 season. Northern Districts Cricket is trialling a BYO policy for its one-day Janury matches at the Bay Oval. The policy allows people aged 18-plus to bring in alcohol in cans or plastic – with a limit of 12 cans each – to the matches at the Bay Oval on January 1 and January 4. By Luke Balvert

Fruju Beachball Challenge returning January This January head down to Mount Drury Reserve for the return of the Fruju Beachball Challenge. Mount Maunganui is one of 15 beach hotspot locations throughout the North Island the challenge will visit during January and February. Locals will be given the chance to play threeaside football with a twist – from inside giant inflatable balls. Free Frujus will be given to players and winning teams will walk away with some, literally, sweet prizes. Discount coupons offering locals 50c off of their

Are you ready for the Fruju Beachball Challenge this January? Photo by Fruju NZ/Instagram

next Fruju will also be available. The Fruju Beachball Challenge takes place at Mount Drury Reserve, corner of Marine Parade and Pacific Ave, Mount Maunganui, on Friday, January 9, 2015. By David Tauranga

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The Weekend Sun

Providing ‘a home away from home’ Registered nurses on-site 24/7, an on-site physiotherapist and hairdresser and weekly activities are just a few of the features offered at Oakland Lifecare in Tauranga.

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Oakland Lifecare acting facility manager Anne Bruning says the well-established resthome and hospital facility has a commitment to providing the best possible healthcare services to residents and families. Anne says all residents are cared for by caring and supportive staff who help to create a relaxed atmosphere. “We pride ourselves on being a home away from home for our residents.” Situated in a picturesque park-like setting, Anne says Oakland Lifecare offers peace and quiet, tailormade care plans, and 24-hour registered nurse cover. Among many other reasons, Anne says the Thirteenth Ave resthome’s family atmosphere makes for a great place for people to spend retirement life. “Being centrally located and close to the city allows residents to easily venture out on scooters. “Built around an original 1870s villa Oakland the resthome is in the heart of the city in quiet, peaceful surroundings where residents are able to listen to the birdlife, including tui and woodpigeons that frequent the oak trees.” Anne says the raised gardens built by their maintenance man are also very popular with the By Zoe Hunter greenfingered residents.

Helpful home care hints for holidays The holiday period can be a stressful time for all, to say the least.

info@scottsdaletours.co.nz | www.scottsdaletours.co.nz info@scottsdaletours.co.nz | www.scottsdaletours.co.nz

Oakland Lifecare’s acting facility manager Anne Bruning.

There’s the trips away, juggling children and their activities if they’re still at home with you – and the care of loved ones, who also needs assistance. One can feel very stretched at this time of the year. Sometimes the care of a loved one becomes tricky, or you wish to go away and feel you can’t due to your loved one needing you to be there for them too. However, there are options available to you so you can have time out. There are a number of

organisations that can assist with respite care.There’s a number of resthomes provide respite care, including Carter House, Althorp, Aspen and Lexham House to name a few. There are some small owner-operators including Shelley’s in KatiKati that also provide such care. Then there are companies including Home Instead that can offer respite care in your own home. They have staff to provide oneon-one care as required. It’s important to shop around

and note the differences and to work out truly what you desire in terms of respite care. Each service provider offers a slightly different service; and as we are all individuals with different needs and desires, it’s important to find the one just right for you. From the team at Home Instead, we wish you all a happy New Year. We trust 2015 brings forth all your dreams. And finally, thank you to the many people who’ve used our services and continue to support us.

Walking for fun and fitness Cruise into the New Year The city’s elders are encouraged to enjoy some weekly fun and fitness by joining Age Concern Tauranga’s Walking Group. The group meets at different locations around the city every Wednesday morning at 10am, and is open to people of all fitness abilities, setting off at a pace that suits even the slowest walker. For more details about the weekly walking group and where to meet, visit www.ageconcerntauranga.org.nz or see the ‘What’s On’ section in The Weekend Sun.

Families are encouraged to view the first sunset of 2015 in a relaxing cruise across the Wairoa River on New Year’s Day. People can relax with easy listening sounds of musician Anthony Coulter – dubbed the piano man – while cruising the river at Waimarino on January 1. There’ll be a barbecue prior to the 6pm departure and non-alcoholic beverages available on board. The New Year’s Day Sunset cruise departs Waimarino at Taniwha Place in Bethlehem at 6pm on January 1 – and arrives back at about 9pm. Tickets are available from www.paddleboat.co.nz or by phoning 0800 289 849.

The Weekend Sun

’Tis the season to consider your liver Last month, researchers at the University of Tsukuba in Japan released news of their study showing people suffering from fatty liver disease could significantly improve their condition.

It showed they could do this by regular use of a vibration training platform that moves in both vertical and horizontal directions. The research, led by professor of gastroenterology Junichi Shoda, utilised a Power Plate machine, with a vertical displacement of 1mm to 2mm, in addition to horizontal displacement, with a frequency range of 25-50Hz.

accumulates inside liver cells, slowing down the metabolism of body fat stores. This means the liver burns fat less efficiently, resulting in weight gain and inability to lose weight. It’s most commonly caused by poor diet, obesity, alcoholism and diabetes. Left idle, the condition could develop into liver cirrhosis. Patients could reduce the fat through regular exercise, but many fail to do so.

Kicking off in the New Year, Aevum Wellness at Faulkners Pharmacy is offering tailored detox and weight loss programmes based on the Power Plate training protocols used in these research studies. Power Plate is available for use or purchase at Aevum Wellness Centre, under the supervision of an exercise professional. Call 07 578 5205 for an appointment.

Exercise on a Power Plate machine can improve liver health. The 30 subjects, all with poor liver condition, spent 20 minutes twice a week performing a variety of exercise positions on the Power

Plate. Researchers found after 12 weeks the subjects’ liver fat was reduced significantly. Fatty liver occurs when excess fat

Ensuring social inclusion and respect of elders Respect and social inclusion is goal one of the Age-Friendly City Strategy – which proposes older people in the community are included, valued and appreciated. Many actions within that goal set out what we can do to assist. For example: present positive images of older people; provide improved access to facilities where people can get together for social, recreation and leisure activities; promote intergenerational programmes and events; promote awareness of the value, needs and preferences of older people especially to the business community to improve service delivery and support; and ensure inclusion of the older person in Tauranga City Council’s policies and strategies. Achievements made include a compilation of a photo essay of positive images of people in the community by photographer Ross Brown – the photos have since been donated to Tauranga Hospital. The Older Persons Activity Forum was established to undertake a stocktake of outdoor facilities and activities available for older people. Priority One pointed out in a monthly newsletter to all business owners the cost-effective action of providing chairs for shoppers, especially in changing rooms. Involvement continues with recreation and leisure activities, especially regarding how some could be made free of charge and with intergenerational programmes that involve communities. Goal one is closely aligned to a couple of action points in goal four – social participation, which proposes to hold events and activities at locations and at times that are suitable with and for an older person, and to support networks within the community who provide services to older people.

We can all assist in these two actions just by being aware of the older people within our community and the value we place upon them.

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Summer holiday picnic time

The Weekend Sun

LUNCH

It seems like a such long time ago that I’ve been on a picnic or been under canvas. Maybe it’s that we don’t venture into the countryside or the beach like we used to and instead tend to eat alfresco around the barbecue or outside bustling restaurants or cafés. There are some wonderful areas to have picnics here in the Bay. Occasionally, you see the odd couple or family enjoying a picnic but it seems to be in decline. Getting a dose of the countryside while relaxing beside a lake and enjoying some wonderful prepared foods with a glass of wine or fresh brew of coffee is something that takes a little planning. But quite often it’s all worthwhile. Food that can be prepared ahead of time, like bacon and egg pie and scotch eggs are great – and so is this week’s big sandwich recipe. My famous frying pan focaccia bread is only really a recipe – and an easy way to make a huge sandwich. When the bread is freshly made you can press the whole sandwich before cutting and it’ll stay together longer, making it easier to wrap and transport. There’s numerous fillings you can put in your sandwich. Recently, I made the biggest sandwich for 120 people using roasted asparagus, roast beef, horseradish sauce, homemade mayonnaise, leftover roast gravy and a large dose of microgreens.

Frying pan focaccia Ingredients 3-4 cups strong flour 3 cups warm water ½ cup olive oil 2 Tbsp honey 1 Tbsp instant yeast granules 2 Tbsp sea salt flakes Rosemary leaves (optional)

Method Put half of the flour and all of the salt into a large bowl. Heat up the honey by adding half of the warm water to it, then pour this from a height into the bowl to make loose puddle with bubbles. This activates the gluten in the flour. Leave for a few minutes then add the yeast to the remaining water. Stir well then pour this into the sloppy puddle, and you can stir in some of the olive oil as well. Stir well with your hands, and add more of the flour until you have a soft, loose dough. Cover and leave undisturbed for about an hour. Tip out onto a bench and add more flour to form a dough that won’t stick to your hands. Select a large pan, or two small ones that have ovenproof handles, or use a large cake tin. Oil the pan with the rest of the olive oil, squish the dough into the pan and poke down well with your fingers. Put more olive oil on top, to fill finger holes. The dough should cover the pan and be only three-four centimetres thick. Rub with some fresh rosemary and sea salt and leave to rise in a warm place for about four-five hours until dough has reached top of pan. Bake at 180 degrees Celsius for about 20 minutes, or until the pan sounds hollow when tapped. Remove to cooling rack, then simply fill with your favourite fillings. Press for a while with a plate, then cut and wrap for your picnic.

www.flaveur.co.nz

The Weekend Sun

Growing the community together of trouble is by ensuring that more of them do Work and Living Skills training as part of their sentence. Corrections has set a target of 10,000 offenders completing WLS by 2017.

ticipating in Work and Living Skills programmes. Many offenders simply do not have essential life skills and this leads to their offending. One of the ways Corrections is helping community-based offenders to stay out

By Letitia Atkinson

CIDERY&& tasting shed O factorie: CIDERY

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People at the opening of the garden in October.

Vote for your favourite milkshake A great milkshake is a Kiwi summer staple and this summer Anchor is setting out to find New Zealand’s best.

Maybe it’s your local café or that quirky ice-cream bar with queues out the door from dawn to dusk. New Zealand’s Best Milkshake Competition calls for Kiwis to get their hands on a milkshake, and decide if their delicious offering deserves the top spot.

People can go online to Bestmilkshake.co.nz/ vote to vote for their favourite milkshake. With four categories to pick from – best protein, best lactosefree, best smoothie or best creative combination milkshake – there’s something to cater to every taste. The top milkshake in the four regions – Upper North Island, Central North Island, Lower North Island and South Island – will be decided by popular vote.

Top regional milkshakes will then be judged by milkshake aficionado Deanna Yang. Deanna says there’s nothing quite like a frothy, sweet milkshake to quench your thirst on a summer’s day. “I’m so looking forward to seeing the amazing creations that will come from all around New Zealand.” Deanna will be calling on Tiraubased Fonterra farmer Joanne Leigh to help with judging as she travels NZ to find the best in the land. Voting is open now for Kiwis to pick their favourite milkshake, and closes February 28.

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The garden on Chadwick Rd grows food for the Work and Living skills course ‘KFC’ or Kai For Cheap. This is a cooking course run at the community work centre looking at cooking healthy food on a budget. The garden is named Te Rourou, which means weaved flax plate or basket. The name is derived from the whakatauki, ‘naaku te rourou naau te rourou ka ora ai te iwi’ which translates to ‘with your (food) basket and my (food) basket, the people will thrive’. “Built and planted by offenders while completing their community work sentences, plants were donated by Spring Hill Corrections Facility horticulture training yard, along with community organisations and staff,” says Community Corrections Tauranga community work team services manager Karen van der Zee. The garden was officially opened in

October by Minister Simon Bridges, who commended the team involved for the “tremendous piece of positive work”. He spoke about the changes to what was a very barren piece of land to a resource that will have a positive effect on the local community. “Community Corrections Tauranga has had fantastic support from The Good Neighbours Trust, which has provided fantastic support and advice. “As per their recommendation the gardens are built to be sustainable using a ‘lasagne gardening’ technique of layering. “As with all gardening, the quality of the soil is paramount and the raised beds will result in longer seasons of produce being produced. The garden beds also have their own inbuilt watering system developed to conserve resources throughout the summer.” Along with The Good Neighbours Trust, the gardens have also been supported by Fridolin Katalin who donated a beehive, and Deb McCarthy from Merivale Community Garden who donated a worm farm. Tauranga Community Corrections regularly feature as a site with the highest number offenders par-

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A community garden in Greerton built by offenders on community-based sentences is helping to supply a community cooking programme.

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The Weekend Sun

Racing to top class in the Bay Top results and a love for ‘letting loose’ on four wheels helped earn 4WD driver Phil Jones top honours as Motorsport Bay of Plenty’s overall club champion for 2014.

The long-time club member and passionate driver also collected awards as both 4WD Class and Speed champion, along with claiming the Patron’s Challenge Trophy as Old Coach Rd sealed sprint champion. Introduced to motorsport 38 years ago, at age 18, Phil has been passionate about car racing ever since his first hill-

Motorsport BOP Club Champion Phil Jones shows his top form at MacDougall Quarry Hill Climb; B Class and 2WD Speed Champion Shane Wright at the TECT Park Day-Night Sprints and C Class Champion Dianne Fellows on the Te Puke Hill Climb. Photos by Jason Byrne www.alittlebitsideways.co.nz ahead of B class 1601-2000cc champion Shane Wright climb in a Morris Minor with Mk 1 Cortina 1500cc on 173 and D class 3500cc-plus champion Chris engine when he came fourth. Hawkes on 169. “My friend who was involved thought I was a bit of “It was great to win, especially with it being so close a natural and it’s just gone from there,” recalls Phil, with those guys,” says Phil, who says a personal highwho loved being able to get our and “thrash” the car light during the year was beating Phil Campbell in the without having to worry about traffic coming around Oropi Gorge Tarmac Sprint. the corner. Phil Jones, who raced on the rally circuit from 1978 “I’ve always loved getting out and giving the car a to 2001 when he gave it away because of the cost, hard time. It’s good to something that you like,” says enjoyed competing in the club’s range of events saying Phil about his motorsport hobby. it keeps him on his toes. If his prowess behind the wheel isn’t enough, his “I ended up taking part in two motokanas and found commitment to motorsport is clear as the club’s most it was a lot harder getting around those cones. active member. Phil took part in 19 of the club’s 23 The C class 2001-3500cc award went to Dianne Folevents of the year – collecting a total of 273 points lows and the A class, to 1600cc, was won by well ahead of 3500cc+ champion Chris Hawkes who Jay Pittams. competed in 14 events for 190 points. For other awards and club details go to Just focusing on his 12 best results, which decide club champion, Phil came out on top with 177 points, www.mbop.org.nz By Hamish Carter

The All-new

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The Weekend Sun

Appraised Used Vehicles

The Weekend Sun

Give the car some love before turning the key With many cars heading off on their biggest journeys of the year, it’s a smart time to give your vehicle some extra attention before leaving on holiday or long trips.

The New Zealand Automobile Association is reminding motorists not to forget about preparing the family car before its put through its paces with summer holiday trips. Areas the AA recommend motorists look at and give their car a late Christmas present include tyres, safety features and battery.

Check your tyres and make sure they are in good shape. Not only does it make driving safer, but it can save money on petrol. Check the tyre tread is not too worn. If you need to treat your car to a new tyre or two then do so, and check all tyres are properly inflated before you head off so they perform at their best. Tired drivers and busy roads increase the holiday driving danger, so take the time to check steering, seatbelts, brakes and your car’s various safety features to make sure everything is at its best. While you may not be due for a service it’s always a good idea to make sure your car is in good shape, so a quick check by your mechanic is always recommended before heading off on a long drive. With 40 per cent of its road service callouts for dead batteries, the AA is urging motorists to get a new one if it looks unlikely to last the summer. Hot temperatures and long drives mean the radiator will be working overtime, so make sure it

has plenty of water. Also check the cooling system for leaks and make sure hoses are secure and in good condition. Check the engine oil and add some more if it is low. For more tips on what to do to prepare for holiday motoring, go to: www.aa.co.nz/cars/maintenance/

Slow down at roadworks sites this summer

Motorists are being urged to take care on the roads and allow extra time when travelling this summer, with a number of maintenance and safety projects underway in the Bay of Plenty and Waikato regions. New Zealand Transport Agency regional performance manager Karen Boyt says an extensive programme of reconstruction and resealing is planned to April 2015. “For most people summer is a time to get outdoors, head to the beach and have fun but it’s also a time when our contractors are busy

repairing road surfaces and carrying out important safety improvements,” says Karen. She acknowledges roadworks can be dusty, noisy and frustrating for drivers, but says the work does ensure better and safer roads for everyone to travel on. “Summer is the best time to reseal our roads as warmer temperatures and dry air helps new seal to stick to the road surface. “We try to minimise the impacts but people can expect short delays due to speed restrictions and stop/

go traffic control. Karen says it’s critical motorists slow down and observe speed restrictions through work sites. “Speeding through the sites can be dangerous for road workers and other motorists, as well as causing damage to the work.” There will be no works on state highways in the Bay of Plenty from December 24 and January 5, 2015. “However, there will be speed restrictions in place.” Find out more at www.nzta.govt. nz/bay-of-plenty-maintenance

The Weekend Sun

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The Weekend Sun

Cole drives for a hometown advantage After two years of disappointing results at the ASB Baypark round, Tauranga drift racer Cole Armstrong is determined to claim his hometown advantage this year.

“It’s never been good for us. You’ve got your family, your friends and supporters there backing you so you want to give

them your best,” says Cole, who after some disappointing results in the first two rounds of the D1NZ national drifting championships is now confident of competing strongly at the 2015 Mount Maunganui meeting. “It’s definitely my favourite round and I’m determined to turn it around out there in front of my supporters and sponsors.” Problems with a few ‘gremlins’ in his

new 250 GT Skyline had been hampering Cole’s performance as he settled his second car in, but a strong performance at Hampton Downs before Christmas has him convinced he has it running at its best. “It’s been shutting down when the oil’s low, but the computer’s helped us diagnose that and we think it’s sorted,” explains Cole, who despite qualifying top at round two at Mount Smart Stadium in November struck car problems and was knocked out early. This follows earlier car problems at the opening round at Manfeild.

Despite having his new car ready to go in late autumn, his decision to return to work in Western Australia prevented him from tweaking the car’s set-up during the off-season. “It’s my first V8 and the Nascar setup has taken a bit to get used to,” explains Cole, who despite poor results in the first two rounds is in seventh place in the Pro division thanks to his top qualification at Mount Smart. “I put high expectations on myself because I think I’m one of the best drivers so I’d

After a frustrating start to the drifting season, Cole Armstrong is aiming for a turnaround at ASB Baypark on January 17-18. Photo by Tracy Hardy.

like to be up in the top five by the end of the season and I’m definitely aiming for the top next year.” Minor damage to the Skyline’s rear at the DriftShifters event in Auckland in early December has been repaired and his focus is now completely on preparing for the Bayfair round on January 17-18, where the drifting showdown will include a fun team’s event – he’s pairing up with Te Puna Pro-Am driver Kelvin Clark– a freestyle motocross demonstration and fireworks display. Meanwhile, Cole is considering letting another pro drifter drive his RB34 Skyline at Baypark, but was waiting for confirmation when he spoke to the Sun Driver. Beyond the Baypark event he’s planning to engineer both cars for different track types to help him perform at his best wherever he competes. At Baypark last year Cole had to pull out after blowing the gearbox and hitting a barrier wall on a qualification round, and was knocked out the previous year when he crashed and broke his steering rack. For more details on the Baypark round, which will see drivers compete in the ‘concrete jungle’ track setup for the event in the carparkpits area, go to D1NZ.com By Hamish Carter

The Weekend Sun

Teens help city hospital’s children’s ward Sometimes teenagers get a bad rap, but four Tauranga Girls’ College students are proving they can be model citizens too.

brave face for their children. “What Madison, Ruby, Joy and Francesca have done is wonderful and it’s great they are so engaged,” says Tauranga Hospital Children’s Ward Nurse Manager Lynnece Dowle. “What is clear is that they genuinely care about the children and their parents and what they are The school’s Year 10 extension class were given the going through. opportunity to plan a project for the benefit of the “It’s a privilege they took the time out and that they community – and Madison Randall, Ruby Matthews, chose our ward.” Joy Ackerley and Francesca Taylor willingly took up The students applied to Legacy Trust for funding and the challenge. set about arranging a morning tea for the parents in Together they wanted to do something to help the ward as well as preparing a number of care packthe children’s ward of Tauranga Hospital. Following ages for distribution to parents in temporary residence discussions with the hospital’s management, it was at the hospital. decided they would support the parents of the sick “We realised that a number of parents arrive at hospichildren, as many of them were shouldering stressful tal with their children in an emergency situation. situations and at the same time putting on a “They have nothing with them to cope for a short stay so a basic pack of goodies such as shampoo, toothbrushes, facecloths and soaps would give them some help,” says Lynnece. The students made up 30 care packages in total – 20 for women and 10 for men. “So many of the parents really appreciated the packs they were given,” says Madison. “It made us all feel great knowing that we’d made such a difference to their lives.” Lynnece applauded the effort from the students. “It shows remarkable foresight to put the care packs together for the parents in temporary residence. “While many may think about the effects of illness or injury on the patients it’s sometimes easy to forget the significant impact it has on their families as well. “Actions like this are a credit to them, their school and their own families.” Legacy Trust representative Taina Savage and the students’ teacher Felicity Pitt accompanied the students to the hospital to participate in the event. Madison Randall, Ruby Matthews, Taina Savage, Joy “It was fantastic to see the kindness and conAckerley, Felicity Pitt and Francesca Taylor at Tauranga sideration that these young people showed to Hospital’s Children’s Ward preparing to meet the parents. others through this project,” says Taina.

Setting New Year resolutions

It’s that time of the year again when we all feel we can achieve anything at all, regardless of what life throws at us. I think the New Year and resolutions are great for setting our intentions for the year ahead, but I wonder how many people set goals at this time of the year, then spend the rest of the year feeling bad for not achieving them or wondering what direction to head in. New Year’s resolutions don’t need to be oncein-a-lifetime events. For example, quitting smoking and losing 20kg – although those types of goals are definitely worthwhile. If you’re prone to not sticking to your resolutions think about setting really little ones that will be easily achieved and then setting more little ones after that. Instead of one or two massive resolutions at

the beginning of the year, a number of small progressive goals that take you through the whole year might just

be the ticket to your success. Lifestyle change goals work really well like this, because lifestyle change works best a little at a time. If your goal is to live better, just change one thing this week; don’t change everything. Change the number of

days you have takeaways or reduce your chocolate intake or have four alcohol-free days each week, or add extra greens to your dinner every night. Make it easy so it is achievable. All the best for 2015. Take care of yourself and each other.

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The Weekend Sun

Programme for vulnerable newborn babies A special health programme to educate the parents of newborn babies vulnerable to Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy is taking a step further, with funding gained for baby’s sleeping pods.

extended family and friends.” Raewyn and the team, including midwife Natasha Rawiri and registered nurse Margie Rolleston, provide follow-up calls to the families eight-10 weeks after the initial placement of the pods. “We seek feedback from the users of the pods to gauge their understanding of the messages we’ve provided. It’s also a time to clarify anything that families are

Thanks to a $2000 grant from Legacy Trust, the programme will purchase 20 special sleeping pods for distribution to selected families in the community. This follows the programme being implemented in the Bay of Plenty from funding received in June 2013 by the Bay of Plenty District Health Board and the Midland Maternity Action Group. The criteria for determining the risk factors to enrol into the programme are identified by specialists and include: the ethnicity of the baby; the mother’s exposure to smoking during pregnancy; premature and low birth weight babies; regular alcohol and/or drug use in the baby’s household; and the parents’ intention to co-sleep with the baby. “The Pepi-Pod [baby pod] Programme was an innovation developed by Change for Our Children and our goal is to educate parents and whanau about protecting babies when they’re sleeping,” says Raewyn Lucas, who co-ordinates the Western Bay of Plenty Pepi-Pod Programme. The programme has a trained workforce in Tauranga and Whakatane, who consult with families and provide practical information about safe infant Raewyn Lucas and Kiri Randall hold one of the new baby sleeping practices. pods purchased with a Legacy Trust grant. “We give the family a sleeping pod for the baby and help them understand why it’s essential to create a safe sleep environment for their infant,” says Raewyn. “In return for the pod, we ask the family to embrace the programme’s ideals and spread safe sleep information to their social networks including their

unsure about,” says Natasha. The opportunity to have users spread our message is extremely empowering for the families, says Raewyn. “Our team needs to gain trust with the families so that the safe sleep messages are practical and relevant. “Their passion for protecting infants

makes those messages believable.” The Legacy Trust grant is a “heartfelt gift to a vulnerable sector of our community” says Kiri Randall, from the trust. “We applaud the work that Raewyn and her team are doing to educate new parents about such important messages.”

Youth programme expands Three Bay of Plenty communities are being included in the Youth in Emergency Services programme, with Youth Minister Nikki Kaye announcing an extra $100,000 in funding to expand it. Katikati, Maketu and Murupara are among 10 new communities to benefit, meaning up to 16 youth in each place can be part of the programme in 2015. Nikki says the exciting programme opens the door for young people to volunteer or follow a career path in emergency services, such as fire, ambulance and search and rescue. “From chatting to communities where the programme has already run, I know what a boost it can be for areas that struggle to find volunteers. “At the same time, the programme engages young people, helps them learn valuable skills and enables them to serve their community in a meaningful way.” For more information, see www.myd.govt.nz/youngpeople/youth-in-emergency-services.html

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The Weekend Sun

A present for ‘Tinku’ By Hunter Wells

Tinku’s Kiwi connection – Amy Brown and Caitlin Watson. Photo by Tracy Hardy.

A small, breathless Indian boy who’s living out his numbered days in a tumble-down shack in a remote Fijian village has inveigled his way into two young hearts 2500 kilometres away in Tauranga. He is nine-year-old Avishek Kumar – but to Tauranga residents Amy Watson, 17, and Caitlin Brown, 18, he is ‘Tinku’ and “he’s the loveliest, sweetest kid”. But Tinku has limited time – he suffers severe mitral regurgitation, pulmonary hypertension and congestive cardiac failure which all add up to one very sick little boy. Amy says Tinku has a poor prognosis. “If he doesn’t get his heart operation, he will die; and if he does get his operation, there’s a real chance he won’t survive it.” At home in Rakiraki – halfway between Nadi and Suva on the Kings Rd, Tinku is confined to the house because the heat of the day leaves the boy breathless and could kill him. Now Caitlin and Amy want to play Santa – they want to bridge the oceans and the cultures and offer him a little Kiwi kindness. And they need $6500 to do it. The Tauranga duo were smitten by Tinku while on volunteer service in his village. “We dug a well and fought off frogs in the shower and spiders the size of a cinder block.”

Then one night a small boy emerged from the shadows as the girls were teaching local children to play Last Card. It was Tinku and he immediately charmed them. “He was so quiet and shy,” says Caitlin. Tinku will get his chance at life with an operation early next year, but it will be in India because Fiji doesn’t have the facilities. The operation’s been paid for by the Fiji Government and local Indian community, but the family still needs the $6500 for accommodation, food and other bits and bobs. That’s where Caitlin and Amy come into the equation.“Please, please understand the family’s predicament,” says Amy. “They come from a village with little, and Tinku’s dad is a sugar cane worker earning $40-$60 dollars a fortnight. “They have saved $500 which, considering what they have, is amazing.” They ask: “Can you spare a little Kiwi Christmas cheer for Tinku please?” And there’s a heartfelt appeal from a desperate mother, Tinku’s mother Suman. “Can you help us please? We are trying our best to save him. We don’t have enough time. “We are praying.” Prayers will help but a small donation would be gratefully received at a difficult time in a distant village. To make a donation to Tinku’s plight, see https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/heart4avishek

NEIGHBOURHOOD BEER• KITCHEN

The Weekend Sun

Racist driving rules in NZ? I am absolutely gobsmacked the man driving his car with a kayak lying sideways across the roof escaped a fine. Waikato Police have since apologised for wrongly assuming the driver was tourist, hence letting him off scott free. Well it shouldn’t matter if he was tourist or not – he should have been pinged like the rest of us would have been. It was a stupid act, and if as Kiwi committed the same misdemeanour on a highway overseas I’m sure they would be reprimanded. In New Zealand recent crashes involving tourists have been highlighted – and with summer upon us there will be many tourists on the roads – I hope not acting the same way as this man. And why should these particular drivers escape punishment? Does it teach them anything when they get let off a fine for bad driving? Talk about a racist rule. K Morland, Katikati.

Stand up for your region - don’t be afraid It’s always sad to read the letters to the editor from former elected members of council, defeated at the election box. They are caught up in a negativity that blinds them to anything positive, which might be happening in local government. Mike Baker in his letter ‘Be very afraid’ (The Weekend Sun, December 12) criticises former TCC CEO Stephen Town for his supposed support of reorganisation of local government in the Bay of Plenty. Yet Mike was not present at the very informative and wide-ranging address given by Stephen to a Chamber of Commerce function on December 12.

Stephen made the point that amalgamation of Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty District Council would not bring about immediate cost savings, but it would introduce truly effective and efficient governance that would enhance the competitiveness of our region by driving population growth and adding economic value. Yes, be afraid of a unitary council but stand up for the amalgamation of our local territorial authorities remembering there is so much that unites and so little that divides our Western Bay of Plenty. Graeme Horsley, Tauranga City.

Learning from 2014’s criticisms This year I’ve submitted many letters to the The Weekend Sun. There’s been a constant theme of criticism and complaint to my letters. I don’t regret this but wish for once, at this time of year, to write a letter full of praise and thankfulness to my fellow men. I find the simplest of things, such as smiles, politeness, consideration and thoughtfulness in interpersonal relationships brings me much joy.

If somebody makes me laugh, this is a great bonus. People are fundamentally good and re-act to the way we conduct ourselves. I’ve been criticised in print and to my face - and 50 years ago I was labelled a whinging Pom. But I never learnt anything from people who agreed with me. I wish you all a very happy festive season and a long season of goodwill to all men. P Dolden, Papamoa.

Send in letters Do you have an issue or concern to raise? The Weekend Sun welcomes letters and photographs. Preference is given to short letters (200 words), supplied with the writer’s full name and contact details. Photographs are best in jpeg format. Email: letters@thesun.co.nz

The Weekend Sun

E N T E R T A I N M E N T G U I D E The Weekend Sun’s ever popular guide to ‘What’s On’ in the Bay.

Monday 29 December

MUSIC

SPECIAL EVENTS

OUT THERE

News, reviews and opinionated raving on the music scene.

Community events and occasions across the Bay.

Stories, snippets, strangeness, and general entertainment.

Citizens Advice Bureau-

Free, confidential info & advice about anything call in Mon - Fri at 38 Hamilton St, Tauranga 9am - 5pm or free-phone 0800 367 222 or 578 1592. JP service every Mon 1-5pm,

Baypark Family Speedway South Pacific Sprint Car Championship/Burger King Super Saloon Series. www. bayparkspeedway.co.nz

Weds & Thurs 9am - 11.30am. Weds CAB service at Welcome Bay Community Centre 9.30am - 12.30pm, Fri at Mount Library 11.30am - 1.30pm. Christmas holiday hours: Dec 29-31 9am – 4pm. No appointment necessary. Omanu Bowling Club Twilight bowls every Mon 6-8pm. Flat shoes essential. Water for the Soul Do you feel spiritually isolated & seek relationship with like-minded people? Join us for biblical study, shared meals, relationship, celebration & social times. All things working together for good. 571 5188

Tuesday 30 December Alcoholics Anonymous Mt Maunganui Open meeting every

Tues at St Peter’s Hall, 11 Victoria Rd 7.30pm. For more meetings & assistance 0800 229 6757 Ocean Running Club Every Tues 5k family fun run & walk. Registration at Sport Fishing Club, Pilot Bay 5.30pm, starts 6pm. $5 entry, free drink & spot prizes. Phil 021 383 354 Welcome Bay Lions Support your local community along with lots of fun. Meet 2nd Tues at Greenwood Park Village 6.30pm. Jim 544 1248

Wednesday 31 December

Antique & Collectables Fair At Waihi Beach

Community Centre Dec 31 10am – 5pm & Jan 1 10am – 3pm. Antiques, collectables, vintage & retro for sale including glass, furniture, linen, jewellery, books, curios etc. Proceeds to Waihi Beach Community Centre. Admission $4. Diane 021 609 399 Healing Rooms At Bethlehem Town Centre, cnr shop behind PO/Bookstore, Christian prayer for healing. Weds 1-3pm. 021 110 0878 www.healingrooms.co.nz

New Year’s Sequence Dancing

At Greerton Hall 8pm - midnight. Live music. Men $7, ladies a plate please.

Tauranga Embroider’s Guild

Every Weds at Tauranga Rowing Club rooms, Memorial Park 10am - 2.30pm & 7-9pm. Juniors 4-5.30pm. Beginners & experienced stitches welcome. Nancy 544 4778

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Thursday 1 January

Cricket - Skycity Northern Nights

Vs Otago Volts at Bay Oval, Blake Park 12pm. NZ’s domestic one-day competition. Tickets on sale at the gate. Adults $10, seniors $5, kids free. Happiness & Our Mind Dropin meditation classes, beginners welcome. Classes are self-contained so start any date. Cost $14 per class. At Tauranga Plunket, 471 Devonport Rd. Monthly classes, next class Jan 15 7-8.30pm. www.meditateintauranga.org Katikati Tramping Club New Years Day family walk. Poupou Springs & picnic. Meet at Upland Rd end 10.30am. Easy. Keith 552 0215

Tauranga Twilight Athletics Meeting Tauranga Domain all

weather athletics track. Children’s programme 2.30-4.30pm. Adults programme 4-8pm. Details: www.taurangaramblers.co.nz

Friday 2 January

23rd Annual Model Train Show

Jan 9-11 at Mt Maunganui College, Maunganui Rd 10am – 4pm daily. Displays, trade stands, train rides for the kids, raffle. Family $20, adults $7, children $3. Baypark Family Speedway Sprint Car Gold Cup/South Pacific Super Saloon Championship. www. bayparkspeedway.co.nz Chess Tauranga Every Fri at Tauranga RSA, Greerton 6pm & 7pm onwards for the whole family. Werner 548 1111 http://www. westernbopchess.weebly.com/ Interislander Summer Festival Tauranga Races At Tauranga Racecourse 9.30am. Racing action, local food, free kids entertainment & live music. www.theraces.co.nz Papamoa Lions Market At Simpson Reserve 7am – 12.30pm. Stalls must be set up by 7.30am. Great range of goods for sale including fruit & vege, arts & crafts. Fundraising stalls to support needy causes. $10 per car space. 542 2559 a/hs

Saturday 3 January

Alcoholics Anonymous Women’s meeting at St Andrews, Dee St 10-11am. Children welcome. Art in the Park Coronation Park, Mt Maunganui 8.30am – 5pm, weather permitting. Tauranga Society of Artists offer for sale a variety of art to suit all tastes. Baypark Speedway Sprint Car Gold Cup/South Pacific Super Saloon Championship. www.bayparkspeedway.co.nz

Katikati Twilight Concert Tina Cross and her band at Haiku Reserve 6-9pm. Come & support a true Kiwi Icon for a fabulous evening’s entertainment for only $20 per person. Wet weather back up concert held Jan 4. www.katikaticoncerts.co.nz Messianic Weekly Meetings The Way meet in the Kingfisher Room, Arataki Community Centre, Zambuk Way, Mt Maunganui 10am. 542 1438 Tauranga Farmers Market

Tauranga Primary School cnr 5th Ave & Cameron Rd every Sat 7.45am - 12pm. Fresh & artisian produced food. Trixie 552 5278 or www.taurangafarmersmarket.co.nz The Little Big Markets Cnr Matai St & Maunganui Rd 9am – 2pm. Fashion wear, craft, food & music. www.thelittlebigmarkets.co.nz Village Radio Community radio broadcasting from Tauranga Historic Village 1368 kHz AM. Music of 1920’s - 80’s weekends 9am - 5pm, weekdays 10am - 5pm. Specialty programmes. www.villageradio. co.nz or 571 3710

Sunday 4 January

Bethlehem Lions Market 1st & 3rd Sun of month at Bethlehem Town Centre 8am - 12pm.

Cricket - Skycity Northern Nights Vs Auckland Aces at Bay Oval, Blake Park 12pm. NZ’s domestic one-day competition. Tickets on sale at the gate. Adults $10, seniors $5, kids free.

Exhibition – Four Katikati Artists Jean McLean, Margaret Robertsopn, Leigh Bassinger, Julia Blackler Jan 11-18 at the Little Blue House, Main St, Katikati 10am -4pm. Pottery, paintings, vintage china with a new life.

Mount Mainstreet Farmers Market Every Sun in Phoenix

car park 9am - 1pm. Fresh fruit & veges, breads, cheese, oils, plants & more. All home grown & home made. 575 9911 mountmaunganui.org.nz Quakers in Tauranga Every Sunday in hall behind Brain Watkins Historic House 10am. Mainly silent worship, hour long meeting followed by tea & talk. 544 0448

Radio Controlled Model Yachts

Meet Sun 1.30pm & Thurs 5.30pm at pond behind 24 Montego Drive, Papamoa, to sail electron & similar 3ft long yachts for fun. Beginners welcome. Graham 572 5419

Tauranga Night Market Bayfair Every Sunday in the Bayfair, cnr Maunganui & Girven Rds

GUIDE The Weekend Sun’s guide to who’s playing and where. undercover carpark 5.30-11pm. All weather, fully undercover. Fresh produce, gifts, fashionware, antiques, live music & more.

Monday 5 January Baypark Family Speedway

Round 2 top Half Midget Series/Saloon bay Champs. Andrew Edwards Trophy Sprintcars. www.bayparkspeedway.co.nz Omanu Bowling Club Twilight bowls every Mon 6-8pm. Flat shoes essential. Water for the Soul Do you feel spiritually isolated & seek relationship with like-minded people? Join us for biblical study, shared meals, relationship, celebration & social times. All things working together for good. 571 5188

Tuesday 6 January Altrusa Club of Tauranga

Women’s community service group. Dinner & business meeting 2nd Tues. Social programme 4th Tues monthly. Interested? Denise 570 3134

More FM Mt McDonalds Beach Dig And sand sculpture. Register

from 10.30am in front of the Mount Lifeguard Centre, Mount Main Beach, Marine Parade. Entry for 2-11yr olds with separate digging area for 2-5 yr olds. Gold coin entry. Welcome Bay Lions Support your local community along with lots of fun. Meet 2nd Tues at Greenwood Park Village 6.30pm. Jim 544 1248

Wednesday 7 January Healing Rooms At Bethlehem

Town Centre cnr shop behind PO/Bookstore. Christian prayer for healing. Weds 1-3pm, begins again Jan 21. 021 110 0878 www. healingrooms.co.nz Tauranga Embroider’s Guild Every Weds at Tauranga Rowing Club rooms, Memorial Park 10am - 2.30pm & 7-9pm. Juniors 4-5.30pm. Beginners & experienced stitches welcome. Nancy 544 4778

Thursday 8 January

Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting Salvation Army, Eversham Rd, Bayfair 7.30-8.30pm.

Awesome Clothing Sale

9.30 – 10.30 am Good quality, all sizes & styles - men’s, women’s, children’s, shoes, sheets, duvets etc Only $3 a bag. You pick! Rain or shine. Historic Village, 17th Ave,

Continued...

The Weekend Sun M U S I C

P L U S

By Winston Watusi

The Best of 2014: Music and more... And here we are in limbo. One year nearly gone; one not yet started. It seems as good a time as any to do one of those ‘Best of...’ things. Except this one isn’t. I waxed eloquent about the futility of ‘Best of...’ lists recently and I still feel the same. I can’t claim any of these to be the best. But for 2014 they were my favourites. And since this is –albeit nominally sometimes – a music column, let’s start with music. My favourite album from 2014 was by someone I’d never heard of before, part of my resolution to hunt down a new (to me) artist for each week of the year. Sun Kil Moon is a band named after a Korean boxer but it is really just a nom de plume for Mark Kozolek, who has a prodigious output and writes songs so confessional that they could be diary entries. He backs them largely with sophisticated classicalstyle acoustic guitar reminiscent of early Leonard Cohen. His 2014 album was ‘Benji’, a rumination of mortality and family, taking its start from the coincidental deaths of two family members in fires and expanding to cover the world's rich and tragic randomness. What seems loosely unstructured slowly reveals itself to be sad, ironic, wise and strangely moving. Not music for everyone but a man daring to dig deep who exposes profound truths through accumulation of mundane detail. Other albums popping my cork included Aussie elec-

tronica exponent Chet Faker’s ‘Built on Glass’, Damon Albarn’s ‘Everyday Robots’, Jack White’s second solo outing ‘Lazaretto’, New Orleans group Hurray For The Riff Raff ’s Americana exploration ‘Small Town Heroes’, and Wilko Johnson’s R&B collaboration with Roger Daltrey, ‘Going Back Home’. On the local front I enjoyed Silver Scroll winner Tami Neilson’s ‘Dynamite’, but my favourite Kiwi album and pretty much favourite overall album was the self-titled debut from Auckland indie-pop outfit Model Train Wreck. There is literally nothing I don’t like about this CD and its 11 songs. The four-piece band mix spooky rockabilly with jazz chops and great pop sensibility to produce music that is smart, funny and engaging, complicated enough to still reveal new layers after multiple listenings yet catchy enough to have immediate appeal. Aside from the muscularly cool rockabilly guitar there’s a dynamic rhythm section and a guy who doubles on keyboards and horns and is fantastic on both. The production is also excellent. I could rave about this album for a long time. Singer/songwriter/guitarist Chris Howard creates dazzling songs that are as sophisticated lyrically as they are musically. He has an impressively relaxed tenor voice with a vast range. The opener knowingly revels in Beach Boys’ harmonies (presumably to reflect a lyric mentioning ‘vibrations’), the second song is an ode to Twin Peaks’ Laura Palmer, while Port Chalmers gets an amusing name-check as the setting for ‘Port Chalmers Murder Ballad’. Every song is a winner.

...Continued Tauranga. Organised by Turning Point Trust ph 5786934 Happiness & Our Mind Drop-in meditation classes, beginners welcome. Classes are self-contained so start any date. Cost $14 per class. At Tauranga Plunket, 471 Devonport Rd. Monthly classes, next class Jan 15 7-8.30pm. www.meditateintauranga.org On the Lawn Wine & food music festival at Blake Park, Mt Maunganui 1-10pm. R18 event. General admission $44.50

SLAM NZ Beach Volleyball Festival The largest volleyball beach

party experience in the Southern Hemisphere, serving up a slice of the Australian dream to iconic beaches on NZ’s North Island this summer. January 8-9 at Mt Maunganui. www. slamfestival.co.nz

Smiths Sports Shoes Everyone’s Run & Walk Until April 2. Walkers start 5.45pm & runners 6pm with registration from 5.15pm. 3km & 5km options starting Maxwells Rd Reserve. $5 adults, $3 students. $100 Smiths Sport Shoes voucher each week. Tennis Seniors WBOP Next session today at Tauranga Lawn Tennis Club, Wharepai Domain, Cameron Rd, Tauranga 9am. All players 35+ welcome. $3 ball fee.

Friday 9 January

23rd Annual Model Train Show

Jan 9-11 at Mt Maunganui College, Maunganui Rd 10am – 4pm daily.

Displays, trade stands, train rides for the kids, raffle. Family $20, adults $7, children $3. Alcoholics Anonymous Open meeting every Fri at Hamner Clinic, 1235 Cameron Rd, Greerton (behind Bridgestone) 7.30pm. 0800 229 6757 for more meetings or assistance. Chess Tauranga Every Fri at Tauranga RSA, Greerton 6pm & 7pm onwards for the whole family. Werner 548 1111 http://www.westernbopchess.weebly.com/ Gay/Bi Men Support Group Do you need a trusting person to talk to? Discretion assured. For meetings & locations ph/txt Alex 027 358 5934

“What’s On” in the Weekend Sun is a free service for non-proﬁt clubs and organisations. Email julie@thesun.co.nz or fax 571 1116 or post to PO Box 240, Tauranga. Deadline 3pm Tuesday. Contributions should be less than 20 words.

Told you, I could go on and on about them. There’s video online and if you can find the album, snap it up – physical copies are via the band’s Facebook page or there’s iTunes – a future classic in the making. Okay. Enough music. Other bits ‘n’ bobs. My favourite film was ‘Grand Hotel Budapest’, with a cast of thousands, overthe-top production design and director Wes Anderson controlling everything with the greatest of skill. This seems a natural culmination of his work so far, building on last year’s ‘Moonrise Kingdom’ and even incorporating some of the animation from ‘The Fantastic Mr Fox’. Very cool. TV series? Damn, I seem to have watched so much television this year,

particularly on Soho and Sky’s new sci-fi channel The Zone. ‘Game of Thrones’ seems so long ago. ‘Homeland’ is still going strong. But my favourite for the year was the brilliantly left-field TV reimagining of the Coen brothers’ ‘Fargo’. Martin Freeman looking confused, Billy Bob Thornton as the devil in disguise, bodies all round and bucketloads of black laughs. I loved it. (Kudos also to ‘True Detective’ and ‘Broadchurch’). So we’re out of space. If I had to pick one book it would be James Ellroy’s ‘Perfidia’, since I’m only three chapters into the new Chuck Palahniuk, ‘Beautiful You’. And I’m always on the lookout for new stuff or things I missed. Email watusi@thesun.co.nz with any of your recommendations.

The Weekend Sun

Celebrating 2015 in style When the circus Santa Claus has gone and it’s time to start preparing for the big countdown to 2015.

Tauranga City Council event manager Jo Bond says people will be able to see in the New Year with a celebratory line-up of some great local talent, including Mount Maunganui College’s Joe’s Van, New Reptiles, Daughters of Ally and Spank the Funky, plus sounds from DJ Candy and Hipstamatics. “We’re constructing a stage on the Mount toilet block [iHeart Beach Stage] and another one by the tennis court on Marine Parade [The Hits Street Stage].” Expecting about 45,000 people at the Mount on New Year’s Eve, Jo is reminding people of the liquor bans and encourages them to take advantage of the free Park ‘n’ Ride.

DISCOUNT ON PRESENTATION OF THIS AD Does not apply for Family Pass or concessions. Each voucher valid for discount on 1 ticket only.

“We try to provide a safe family environment. We have a big security contingent. We want to make it an event that’s safe for everybody to come to.” The Mr and Miss Mount Maunganui competition will take place on the iHeart Beach Stage from 3pm on New Year’s Eve. Entertainment begins 8pm, with music taking party-goers into the New Year until 1.30am. Astrolabe Brew Bar in Mount Maunganui will also have free entertainment on the night. Papamoa is celebrating with an exclusive event at Papamoa Tavern and the Papamoa Beach New Year’s Eve 2014 line-up features Jetski Safari, ZM’s Ministry of Sound Radio DJ General Lee, Official Edge Radio Station DJ D-Rail, NZ DMC 2014 Champion DJ Spell as well as Ric Rush and Kellyn.

comes to town Costumes, contortionists and clown acts promise to keep the family entertained these school holidays when the Zirka Circus comes to town. Managing director Jeni Hou says the New Zealand’s only full-time touring international circus is back with its third tour at Palm Beach Plaza in Papamoa from December 27 until January 11. Jeni says one thing the circus performers have learned from their second tour is that Kiwi’s love a good laugh. So they felt there was only one thing they could do for their third tour – and that’s to send in the clowns. “Our ridiculous clowns have multiplied, with more clowns and clown acts than ever before. We have clowns to the left and clowns to the right.” Jeni says they still have amazing, awe-inspiring, death-defying acrobatics which have to be seen to be believed and girls in gorgeous costumes performing incredible acts of contortion. “These girls put themselves in positions that will leave you wondering how they will ever get out. And our beautiful magician will leave you wondering how it’s done.” She asks audiences to be prepared for the incredible Wheel of Death. “You won’t believe what these guys put them-

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The Weekend Sun

Revving up the gears and racing into 2015 It’s going to be an exciting end to 2014 and a roaring start to 2015 at the Baypark Family Speedway as the excitement moves up a gear in the New Year.

Thrills and spills galore of Speedway will not end tonight, with the first 2015 event ripping up the track on January 3.

with a buffet meal and entertain the little ones in the Speedway fans will be treated to an action-packed final race supervised children’s zone with a bouncy castle and meeting for 2014, with the Burger King Super Saloon Car face painting. Series inviting New Zealand’s top saloon car drivers to the By Zoe Hunter track on tonight. Speedway promoter Bernie Gillon says there’ll be all the usual thrills and spills with a big field of cars taking to the track. “There’s about 30 super saloon cars in the race. We’ll also have all of the best sprint car drivers from around the country race in the South Pacific Sprint Car Championship.” The new, entry-level Six Shooter Sprint Cars will also be Saturday 27 – Gerry Lee 7.30pm. Club Mt Maunganui Sunday 28 – Last Chance Wednesday 31 – New Year’s Eve joining the action. 4.30pm. Party, through the decades. See “They’re the new entry level class of sprint car racing at Wednesday 31 – Bruce & out 2014 and welcome in 2015 speedway and it’s really catching on and provide a lot of really Chipper 5pm. with all the tunes from the 50’s good racing,” says Bernie. to now. Party starts 7pm. Dress The Matua Racing into 2015, the super saloons will be back again to the era you like. Specials, Sunday 28 – Blarney Boys seeking revenge in the South Pacific Super Saloon Car Champrizes & fun. 3-6pm. pionship on January 3. Sunday 4 – The Shirleybirds Mount RSA Bernie’s also excited for the Midget Shoot Out on January 3-6pm. Friday 26 – Andy Bowman 5, when he says a large number of midget car drivers from the Sunday 11 – Blaze 3-6pm. 7.30pm. USA will be at Baypark Speedway for the first time. “We’re fortunate enough to have some of America’s top midget drivers coming and racing at Baypark.” PLUS 25% and 50% off sale racks in-store! Stretch and speedy, the speedway clowns, will be back at the track from tonight, with event-goers invited to fill their bellies

Sikh parade returns to city streets The inaugural Sikh parade on Tauranga streets last January was a colourful affair.

January 3’s parade starts in Burrows St and makes its way round the avenues. For the event, Burrow St is closed to traffic from 10am-1pm on January 3.

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By Andrew Campbell

Tauranga’s avenues will receive a gift of culture and colour on January 3 as Tauranga’s Sikh community marks the birth of their religious leader with prayer and costume. In January 2014, about 2500 people turned out for Tauranga’s inaugural Sikh parade, hosted by the Tauranga Sikh temple, Gurudawra Sikh Sangat Tauranga. The street march parade is part of a traditional Indian ritual, which marks the birth of the religion’s

10th leader, Guru Gobind Singh, says Gurudawra Sikh Sangat Tauranga spokesperson Puran Singh. While the parade has been conducted several times in Auckland, this January’s event is only the second such annual for Tauranga. “We are absolutely rapt with the numbers. We are very appreciative of Tauranga City Council, the Government and the police for helping us out,” says Puran after the first parade. Last time led by a truck carrying the Sikh scripture, the 2500-strong crowd followed on the two-hour procession chanting sikh prayers and hymns while dressed in traditional Indian garb.

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The Weekend Sun

Tina to open 2015 twilight concerts Katikati’s first twilight concert of the 2015 summer series is on this Saturday – and promises to deliver an unforgettable night of entertainment. The Tina Cross Band will rock Haiku Reserve from 6pm, with local performer 14-year-old Caitlin Merriman the night’s supporting act. Tina, along with keyboardist Barbara Griffin, guitarist Neil Watson and two of New Zealand’s finest singers, Leon Wharekura and Sharon Emirali, will take the stage offering music from the 1960s

through to 2014, plus a couple of Tina Cross originals. Concerts spokesperson Jenni Wilson says Tina has been in the music industry four decades – and will offer a stellar night of entertainment for the whole family. “Tina is a pop princess, song contest winner and recording artistturned-musical theatre star and most recently, singer-songwriter.” Meanwhile, for Caitlin, a Katikati College student, the show will be her first in front of such a big crowd. “She recently won the college’s 2014 talent quest and is the daughter of Karen Merriman, who sang in Kiwi television show ‘Stars in

their Eyes’ a few years ago. “She’s looking forward to performing in front of a crowd and hopes one day to be a primary school teacher.” The concert series is on Saturday nights for the first time, so if wet will be rescheduled for the next night. BYO alcohol is permitted and people are encouraged to bring chairs and picnics for the night.

The January 3 concert is at the Haiku Reserve, off Main St, Katikati. Gates open 5pm and show starts 6pm. Gate tickets cost $20 each, or a season pass costs $45 from Katikati information Centre. Children under 15 enter for free with an adult. For concert updates, call the info line 07 549 3549 or see www.katikaticoncerts.co.nz

Kiwi singer, performer and entertainer Tina Cross and her band are going to rock Katikati’s Haiku Reserve this Saturday.

Welcome Bay’s winning lights It’s the colour co-ordinated lights and cute Christmas Rd,” says Cath. “It was really inviting. “It even had a sign that said: ‘Come and have a look’ characters at the Torr family’s Welcome Bay home that so people could walk up the driveway and view the caught the eye of SunMedia’s official Christmas Lights lights up close.” Trail judge Cath Jump this month. Cath says carefully Kevin and Carol’s home placed lights in the hedges, on Kaitemako Rd has seen reindeers and other festive them named winners of friends dotted around the The Weekend Sun’s 2014 home stood out for her. Christmas Lights Trail, “You could see a lot of which had more than 50 time and effort has gone homes light up the Bay of into it. It was all of the Plenty in December. little touches that made it “It was up on top of the hill and we could see the Kevin and Carol Torr’s Welcome Bay home won stand out.” house sparkling as soon as them The Weekend Sun’s 2014 Christmas By Zoe Hunter we started up Kaitemako Lights Trail title.

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mobility FOR ALL disability needs, visit our showroom 29 Burrows St, Tauranga Ph 578 1213 MES “Supporting your Independence” for 12+years.

to let LARGE DOUBLE ROOM available includes full share of a large modern comfortable home, Papamoa Beach. High speed internet, safe parking very quiet. $225pw includes utilities. Suit responsible mature adult couple, non-smokers, no pets. Ph 021 953 987

trades & services APPLIANCE REPAIRS For service of all Fisher & Paykel, Haier and Elba appliances, Ph 0800 372 273 for your local technician. BOAT BUILDING repairs and maintenance. Timber & ﬁbreglass trade qualiﬁed, boat builder. Ph Shaun 021 992 491 or 07 552 0277 BRYCE DECORATING Interior & exterior painting, wallpapering. Quality work. Ph Wayne 579 5588 or 021 162 7052

cars wanted

Buyers of Damaged, Unloved & Unwanted Vehicles

Great NZ People who are Honest Vehicle Buyers Follow us on Facebook

0800 382 828

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www.sunlive.co.nz/classifieds.html trades & services

trades & services

transport

ELECTRICIAN, 18+ years experience, NZ registered. Residential & commercial, maintenance & service, new builds, renovations. Fast, friendly service. Ph Andrew 022 354 1960

in residential and more. Quality paint at trade prices. For your best advice in all areas. Ph Shane Mount/Tauranga Decorators 07 544 6495 or 021 575 307

FUTURA PROPERTY Building SERVICES maintenance, timber repairs, landscape features. Contact us about the best new sunroof materials available. Ph Bill Purdie on 575 0407 or 027 6247 247 info@futura247.co.nz

PAINTERS AVAILABLE for immediate start. Interior/exterior. Guaranteed workmanship. For free quotes, Ph Graeme today 022 0466 776 or 07 544 5234

DRIVING MISS DAISY – more than a taxi service! We will attend doctor’s appointments with the client and transmit relevant information back to family, assist with shopping or ensure children safely attend sports practices or music lessons. Safe, friendly, reliable service. Ph Jackie from Driving Miss Daisy 552 6614

13th Feb. East Cape Summer Escape - 21st-24th Feb. Hamner Springs, Molesworth & Rainbow Stations 17th-21st March. Tasmania - 21st March 13days away. Seats are limited, don’t miss out, book now! Ph 579 3981

travel & tours

No.1 The Strand, a beautiful historic setting. Ph Tony 07 928 3676 or email tony@thesun.co.nz

HANDYMAN BUILDING and section maintenance, decks, fencing, pergolas, painting, water blasting, odd jobs. Free quotes Ph Rossco 027 270 3313 or 544 5911 INSECT SCREENS Measure. Make. Mend. Ph Rob at Magic Seal 543 4940 PA I N T E R / D E C O R AT O R Interior and Exterior, quality workmanship friendly services. Over 20 years specialising

ROOF PAINTING and maintenance. Roofs rescrewed. Waterblasting, moss removal. Free quotes! Ph Mark 543 3670 or 021 0273 8840 ROOF REPAIRS free quotes for all maintenance of leaking roofs, gutter cleaning & repairs. Chimney maintenance & repairs. Registered roofer, 30yrs exp. Ph Peter 542 4291 or 027 436 7740

TIMBER RETAINING WALLS decks and all types of fencing. Excellent work at a competitive price. Ph Clive 021 048 2833 or 552 6510

“A A A” - SOUTH ISLAND BY RAIL - Tour 1 including: The Coastal Paciﬁc, TranzAlpine & Taieri Gorge - Tour 2: Discover The Chatham Islands - Tour 3: Kenny Rogers show live, with gold tickets - & many more Tours! Contact us to receive your free newsletter for our door to door tours. Ph The Hinterland Tours Team on 07 575 8118 NO.8 TOURS TRAVEL CLUB Specialists in fully escorted day & extended tours. Free pick-up, free newsletter. Up and coming tours; Sunny Nelson Stayput - 24th-28th Jan. Tiritirimatangi Island Cruise & Tour - 11th-

travel & tours

contin.

Trust us – we’ve got your keys

venues FOR WEDDINGS, FUNCTIONS OR MEETINGS check out

WEDDINGS, PARTIES, MEETINGS etc. With stunning Harbour views, fully licensed bar & kitchen onsite. Restaurant open every Friday from 5pm & Sunday from 4.30pm. Tauranga Fish & Dive Club, 60 Cross Rd, Sulphur Point. Ph 571 8450 or text 027 318 5760 www.tfdc.co.nz

wanted FURNITURE COLLECTABLES & household items. House, shed & estate lots a speciality. Cash buyer, Ph Peter 571 0161 or 027 682 4926

Despite the low ranking on the trust scale for real estate agents it’s remarkable just how much you really do trust us. You meet us a couple of times and then hand over the keys to your most valuable possession . We then invite strangers in to peruse your personal space. As agents, it’s a constant priority to leave a property secure. I will often go back into a house to check that I’ve closed everything and switched off the lights etc. It’s really important you keep personal items of value out of sight and in a safe place. If things go missing during a viewing or an open home it’s quite likely your insurance will not cover this as the people have been invited into the house and not actually broken in!

With the festive season underway there can often be presents left lying about; and sadly there are those who prefer to do their shopping via other people’s homes. Neighbourhood support groups are an excellent deterrent and good community sense. If you’re not part of one, create your own – google Neighbourhood Support for details. Let your neighbours know you are away, leave a car in the drive and some washing on the line, or get your neighbours to do this. Big boots on the doorstep could put an opportunist off. Most of all: be safe, think safe and consider others. If you see something – say something. By Shirley Wells,

Crockford Real Estate

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ROMANS

Renaissance Sundays 10am 345 Maunganui Rd w. www.shoreline.org.nz e. info@shoreline.org.nz p. 022 043 2334

Take the time to help others www. www.

.org.nz .org.nz

Sunday Services 9:30am & 6:00pm Come along!

07 576 5387 252 Otumoetai Road www.citychurchtauranga.org.nz

Some years seem to drag and others just fly by. So much has happened for us this year it seems more like three years since the last New Year. And 2015 is the year I turn 60 – that feels much older than I could possibly have imagined ever being. Yet I also feel surprisingly youthful, with 80 being the new 70 (you choose your own number). And time does seem to speed up. What seemed an endless summer day now flits by a week at a time. So there is really only one message. Grasp the time you have and make the most of it now. Which doesn’t mean being selfish. Ecclesiastes states a real truth: “Whoever loves money never has enough, whoever loves wealth is never

satisfied with their income”. Now we all need enough, and, if there isn’t enough, life can be a miserable existence. But even when we have enough we can suffer the deep ongoing dissatisfaction, which comes from simply wanting more – that won’t go away no matter how much we have. Satisfaction will more likely come when we help someone else, no matter how much we have or haven’t got. So, squaring up to the year ahead – the time will run away – resolve to grasp the time we have and make the most of it, knowing we’ll reach the end of 2015 a far more satisfied human being if we have taken the time to help others along the way. By Paul Williamson, Holy Trinity Tauranga

The good news and the bad news

Have you ever had someone say to you: ‘Do you want to hear the good news or the bad news?’

And there is that tension. If I have the ‘bad news’ first then I have to hope the ‘good news’ will make up for the bad news. If I have the good news first, I hope that I will be in better shape to receive the bad news The best option is, when you say: “I’ll have the good news first, What’s the bad news?” and the person says: “There isn’t any”. We all like good news. This last

week we have celebrated Christmas. One of the special things about this Christmas if marks the 200th year since the gospel came to New Zealand when Samuel Marsden preached at the Bay of Islands using the scripture from Luke 2, where the Angels said to the shepherds: “I bring you god news of great joy. Today is born a savior”. And sometimes, today, we fail to see the “goodness” of the good news. I pray this Christmas you will have seen the good news that a savior, Jesus Christ, has come. This is good news to all people. By Stephen Tyrrell Pastor, South City Baptist Church Tauranga

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Flying fun at the circus

Surf champs

Just under 400 junior lifesavers, from under eights to 14s, competed at the BOP Junior Championships at the weekend, with Omanu finishing back-to-back winners. The juniors competed in an array of events including beach sprints, surf races, and board relays at Mount Main Beach.

The Fuse Circus performers enjoying a flying picnic.

A Columbian tui, back flipping bogan, Latino tourist and a multisport manipulator are some of the star attractions of a free open-air outdoor circus below Mount Drury this summer. Starting tomorrow, the talented cast of Fuse Circus is bringing its theatrical performance ‘Campground Chaos’ to Mount Maunganui for the first time. Company director Tom Beauchamp says they performed the show in Downtown Tauranga a couple of years ago – but this is the 2015 version with a new colourful cast, who’ve returned from various corners of the globe.

“Set in a campground, it’s all Kiwiana-themed. There’s a grumpy campground manager, a bogan a tourist a sports geek and a tui in the mix, using 100 per cent NZ music as well.” Tom says audiences can expect comedy, combined with a high-skilled circus, with action happening on and off the ground as performers climb, swing, and soar eight-metres above the amphitheatre at Mount Drury. The free Fuse Circus is at Mount Drury on December 30 to January 3, with daily 2pm and 8pm shows and a New Year’s Eve showcase at 6.30pm and 8.30pm. Donations are accepted after the shows. “People can bring a picnic and a blanket and make a nice evening or afternoon of it,” says Tom. By Zoe Hunter

‘Enspiring’ video competition Tauranga City and Western Bay of Plenty youngsters are being encouraged to get creative on film these summer holidays in a bid to inspire others to take action to care for their local land, air, water and wildlife. The Enspire video competition is calling for entries from youth aged 12-14, with cash prizes on offer for the best five-minute TED-style video that will inspire people to think about what the natural environment means to their lives. Entrants can use a smartphone or video camera to make a clip, which can be entered online on the Bay of Plenty Regional Council website or the Enspire Facebook page. Bay of Plenty Regional Council spokesperson Denise Robertson says what they’re looking for is a five-minute video of someone presenting a talk on their local environment that inspires people. “It’s to create a short video presentation to inspire people to either think about the natural environment, what it means for their work life, or their play, or advise people to take action to protect their local land, air, water or wildlife,” says Denise. First place receives a $500 present card prize, second prize a $300 prize , third prize get a $200 prize and runner up wins a $100 prize. Other prizes include six $2000 project grants to help action an idea into reality, a video screening at Earth hour march 2015 and local events and the

chance to present live at TEDxTauranga in July 2015 and input from speaker coaches. Delivered by Tauranga City Council, Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Bay of Plenty Regional Council, the competition closes March 13, 2015. To find out more, email: enspire@boprc.govt.nz

Mount Monster

A field of 250 competitors took on the challenge of conquering the Mount Monster at the weekend. The race featured a 25km endurance classic consisting of a 5km beach run, a spectacular swim leg, which includes a jump off Moturiki Island’s blowhole, a 12km ski leg and a 6km board paddle.

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accepted.