The Weekend Sun 19 December 2014

19 December 2014, Issue 731 The Bay’s largest circulating, most read newspaper.

64,980 copies

to the homes of 159,700 residents throughout TAURANGA, MOUNT MAUNGANUI, PAPAMOA, WAIHI BEACH, KAIMAI, KATIKATI, TE PUKE, PAENGAROA, OTAMARAKAU and all RDs

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A peek from the peak Checking out the chimney tops from the heights of Mauao Santa Claus has been spotted by The Weekend Sun six days out from the big day.

Enjoying the sights of the Bay, Santa reckons it was a rock climbing mission to map out a route for the reindeer and his

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over-loaded sleigh. “It’s very important to take the right route – we don’t want the naughty children getting presents for those who’ve been good,” says the jolly red-suited fellow.

“I love the Bay of Plenty – I am always sneaking up here with Rudolph to catch some surf, sun and sand; and to pick up a

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few avocados and kiwifruit to keep Mrs Claus happy.”

The Weekend Sun wishes everyone a Merry Christmas – we hope it’s a festive day filled with family, fun, laughter and Christmas pud.

And remember, Santa is watching!

Photo by Bruce Barnard.

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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.

1 The Strand, PO Box 240, Tauranga

ads@thesun.co.nz newsroom@thesun.co.nz

Sun Media Ltd Directors: Claire & Brian Rogers Editorial: Andrew Campbell, Hamish Carter, Letitia Atkinson, Elaine Fisher, Zoe Hunter, Luke Balvert, Merle Foster, David Tauranga, Hunter Wells. Photography: Tracy Hardy, Bruce Barnard. Advertising: Kathy Sellars, Suzy King, Lois Natta, Rose Hodges, AimeeLeigh Brunsdon, Tasha Paull, Lucy Pattison, Bianca Lawton, Nikki Lean, Cath Jump, Alfred Pennyworth.

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.

Crackers and crackpots The Christmas crackers are out there, alright.

On the home straight to Christmas and you’d think the news would be all goodwill to men and women and peace on earth, right?

There’s some good news and some bad news with that concept. The bad news is there’s little good news, there have been some horrific headlines in the last week from nasty road crashes, to tragic deaths and axe murders.

Some young people returning from Christmas in the Park gathered at the rail station. You’d think they’d be full of peace and love and enlightenment, right?

So they have a full-on brawl, bringing the Auckland rail network to a standstill. Ah, the Christmas spirit. Alive and kicking…the daylights out of one another.

“Deck the bros, we’re off our trolley; Fa la la la la, la la la la.”

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A woman who heard someone try her front door, then spotted a man in her driveway with an axe, was quoted as saying she “didn’t think much of it”.

Turns out, the axeman went on to attack four of her neighbours, killing one of them.

This has us confused. Anyone appearing in my driveway with an axe is not going to be let off so lightly. I reckon a dodgy dude at night, wielding any sort of implement is going to raise a few alarm bells, right?

You know, unless it’s Santa with some blokey gift, such as a new axe, chainsaw or brushcutting gear for me, it’s pretty unlikely I’d welcome anyone with any item of a bludgeoning, hacking nature. I reckon a call to 111 and a quick assessment of the stockades would be appropriate.

And here’s a warning to any wayward lumberjacks out there, who may stumble into the Rabbit’s front porch carrying tools of trade, do not expect me to take it quietly.

Show up on my doorstep around Christmas with a bottle of rum and a couple of shot glasses and you might get a different welcome. Appear with anything involving a blade and you’re likely to get some fairly

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Then Sydney is rocked by a crazed Iranian refugee, taking two innocent lives with him.

All the warning signs were there, the guy was on multiple charges and had a long history of lunatic ranting, yet our PC world allows these fruit cakes to kill, before they are stopped.

We still don’t know the details about how and when the order was given to force an end to the siege. But we know from experience that when the perpetrator is given any benefit of the doubt, or given a chance to be “talked down” then the risk increases of harm to the innocent.

We have to urge the police to take swift and decisive action against anyone taking up arms against innocents and the Police. We cannot let the “rights” of a perpetrator continue to mean a lesser chance of survival for hostages or innocent bystanders.

The message here must be that if you raise a weapon, all your rights have been waived.

New Year’s Resolution: Do it them before they do it to you!

Our thoughts are with those affected by this tragedy.

Some positive

On the lighter side, there have been some more positive headlines this week.

We’ve dug deep into the Bay to find you some wonderful stories of Christmas cheer that restore our faith in humanity. Shipping goods to Cambodia; dishing up free Christmas dinner at St Peters; plus the professionals and volunteers stepping up to keep us safe on the beaches, on the ocean and on the streets.

A wonderful teacher retires, we have concerts and shows; heaps of stuff for readers to win; and some hilarious stories from our readers on their worst ever Christmas gifts. Our special commiserations to Michelle Best. (“A broom, seriously, a broom?”)

There’s also been some lighter moments this week. Thank goodness.

Miss Mount: I saw this headline and thought it was a story about a man falling off a horse. Turns out, it’s girls in bikinis.

Ironic name of the week: Goes to NZ Nurses Organisation manager, Cee Payne.

I’m sure nurses do see pain. I wonder if she shares an office with Anne Suffering?

Okay, have a fantastic Christmas – rest, live it up, chill out and spend some good times with your family and friends. Forget the PC control freaks demands (as long as you’re not hurting anyone) and relax.

We’ll be back in your mailbox with one more paper this year, on December 29. And remember, SunLive.co.nz will keep on pumping out the news every hour, every day, right through the summer.

Parting shot

Downtown Christmas shopping and a red Ferrari cruises along The Strand. Rogers Rapiti is dialling on my portable telephone at the time and decide it funny to stand beside the Ferrari while talking and pretend it’s mine.

A few moments of shameless posing. A couple of schoolboys saunter past, admiring the car. As they wander off, one says to the other: “Nice wheels. But who the f*** drives a Ferrari, wearing Crocs?”

Merry Christmas! brian@thesun.co.nz

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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. Recommended footwear for driving a Ferrari: “New colour shades characterise the screen-printing on the sole of Tod’s iconic suede leather lace Gommino shoes, whilst the inner sole resembles the pattern on the Ferrari driving seats, creating brilliant chromatic contrasts and the iconic metal Cavallino Rampante on the side highlights the racing soul of this accessory.”

A shoe that pays tribute to a brand that has represented Italy so splendidly all over the world: In fact, the number 56, screen-printed on the soles, is an accolade to the number worn by the very first Ferrari car to win a Grand Prix race.

The Weekend Sun

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Cruising for data A Matua woman who utilised a high seas holiday cruise to gather Tauranga tourism data has uncovered what she believes to be a litany of lost marketing opportunities for the Bay of Plenty.

Questioning cruiser Wendy Napier-Walker with the Tauranga brochure showing one Tauranga tour out of eight offered to passengers on the cruise boat.

Photo by Tracy Hardy.

“I hate to say it,” says Wendy Napier-Walker. “But we have missed the boat.”

The former diplomatic corp worker recently spent 13 days aboard the cruise liner Dawn Princess, relaxing and compiling a passenger’s perspective marketing analysis of how the Bay of Plenty is sold and received.

Wendy concludes tours are too expensive, Tauranga did not register with passengers, the city is perceived as a gateway to Rotorua and passengers are more impressed with Napier.

She also believes cruise ship passengers get dated, inaccurate and confusing information about the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga needs to be more welcoming – and the city needs a theme to sell.

Wendy cruised Auckland, Napier, Wellington, Akaroa, Port Chalmers, Fiordland and Melbourne.

As result, she believes she could make a reasonable comparative assessment of New Zealand ports of calls after questioning passengers, attending passenger briefings, absorbing passenger information and brochures – and, more importantly, experiencing the Tauranga stopover.

For example, the port guides supplied to passengers on-board the liner are prepared in North America – the Tauranga map is out of date, images are blurry and obscure, there could be confusion about the locality of the shopping area at the Mount and population figures are nearly 10 years out of date.

That is just symptomatic, says Wendy.

There were nearly 2000 passengers on the cruise – most Australian with a smattering of Kiwis and Americans. Passengers Wendy mingled with complained tours at Mount Maunganui are too expensive.

A top end tour like the Rotorua and Polynesian spa experience would cost an adult $299 and a child $229 and a Waimangu Valley and Rainbow Spring tour costs $239 and $169 respectively.

“Many passengers preferred to do their own thing” says Wendy.

For its part Tourism BOP says it will happily meet with Wendy.

The organisation told The Weekend Sun it’s aware the information the cruise ships use needs improvement for all local ports of call; and its working with Tourism NZ to improve this.

To read the full story, go to SunLive.co.nz and search ‘Deck quoits and data’.

By Hunter Wells

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Police apologise for ‘Irish’ mix up

Waikato Police have issued an apology after wrongly assuming a driver with a kayak lying sideways across the roof of his car was a tourist.

The man – believed to be New Zealander Jonathan Waters according to One News – was pulled over as he drove along a Coromandel highway, but has escaped a fine after police presumed he was visiting from Ireland.

District road policing manager, Inspector Freda Grace, says when an officer stopped the man on SH25 to speak to him about the danger his kayak was posing, the man’s accent sounded Irish.

“Unfortunately, we did not check his identity documents and as a result the driver was issued a warning, ordered to remove the kayak and told to head back into town to get suitable transport arranged for the kayak before continuing his journey,” says Freda.

Christmas cheer for Cambodia Mention Cambodia to Brad and Ange Wheeler and their hearts melt. Their minds wind back to Christmas 2012 when they took their daughters, aged seven and two, to the Southeast Asian country.

They remember living among the povertystricken communities, educating children, bringing food parcels for families in need and taking supplies to a rubbish dump the whole village lived on top of, sorting through the waste just to make a living. “[They were] some of the happiest people I’ve meet,” says Brad.

He remembers building a toilet for one family, digging and laying bricks for a few days – and the 80-year-old woman who lived in a pole shack on the river bank with her daughter’s family.

“She didn’t have long to go and couldn’t move,” says Brad.

“That memory was hard for me. In New Zealand we’re taken care of in our old age.

“She, however, didn’t know any better. She was loved and had faith.”

Daughter Courtney used hit song ‘Gangnam Style’ to solve the language barrier and communicate with the village children.

“All the girls dissolved into giggles together over and over,” says Brad.

“The desperateness of certain situations combined with the gift of giving was a very emotional and uplifting experience for me and my family – a life-changer and a massively positive experience for my sevenyear-old daughter.”

The treasured memories have prompted the couple to seek their own community’s

Charity container organisers Brad Wheeler, Tim O’Connor and Courtney Wheeler with some of the goods to be shipped to Cambodia in January. help in filling a 20ft shipping container with goods to ship to Cambodia’s coastal city Sihanoukville in late January.

The idea coincides with childhood friends and full-time missionaries Ben and Cherie McGonagle’s Princess Project – getting girls and families off the streets, into school, jobs and a life out of extreme poverty.

Mount Maunganui surfer Tim O’Connor is riding the wave too, donating boards gifted by him and fellow surfers.

The three-time NZ junior champion and

Bridge rebuild starting 2015

School secures robotics success

Contractors have this week started demolition of part of the Tauranga Eastern Link’s Domain Rd interchange, which was burnt by arson on November 20.

Otumoetai Intermediate have won the excellence award at the inaugural VEX IQ National Championships thanks to a vision to align itself with seasoned robotics experts from Otumoetai College.

At the Palmerston North Events Centre last weekend, the school’s nine participants, competing in teams of three, took on the Highrise challenge with great success.

A first for intermediate school level robotics, the VEX IQ Highrise challenge involves teams having to move blocks of varying colours, from one end of the course to the other before stacking them.

NZTA senior project manager Wayne Troughton says demolition is expected to finish finished by Tuesday and preliminary estimates put the cost of repair in excess of $2 million.

“However, the exact figure will not be known until additional strength tests have been completed and the contractor starts dismantling damaged components.”

In the last three weeks design engineers and insurance assessors carried out

Arrest made in Bayfair mugging

A Mount Maunganui teenager has been arrested for allegedly mugging a young girl of her Christmas present money at Bayfair Shopping Centre.

Tauranga Police Senior Sergeant Tristan Murray says the 14-year-old was arrested last Friday and will appear in the Tauranga Youth Court facing one charge of both theft and trespassing.

The accused is alleged to have snatched the 10-year-old Mount Maunganui girl’s money bag before sprinting off through the exit doors last Thursday.

The arrest was made after police identified the teenager having viewed CCTV security footage released by Bayfair management.

Murder accused denies guilt

“You killed my son”, and “it’s on now” were just some of the things the family of murder victim Takena Tiepa-Ranapia shouted as one of the men accused of murdering him appeared in court this week.

The 36-year-old Tauranga man pleaded not guilty to single counts of murder, wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and assault with a weapon.

A second man, aged 37 and jointly charged with the 36-year-old man, also appeared in Tauranga District Court facing the same charges. No pleas were entered.Both men have been remanded in custody until January 28.

Under-16 NZ Nationals winner jumped at the opportunity.

“To give them some surfboards seems is a small gesture knowing that it could have big impact of someone’s life over there.”

Brad and Ange encourage Bay residents to donate children’s clothes, educational tools, picture books and un-broken toys to AllWall Building Products at 90a Maleme

By Zoe Hunter St after January 5.

inspections of the damage, and a range of tests to better understand the extent of the damage.

From initial investigation the NZTA knows the fire destroyed about a five-metre section of the expanded polystyrene blocks and concrete deck of embankment two, damaged some concrete facing panels, concrete deck beams and columns of one of the Domain Rd bridge B abutments.

“The TEL team are focused on keeping the project to their target completion date, although this will be a challenge,” says Wayne.

“Demolishing the damaged parts of the bridge before Christmas will allow the rebuild to start in the New Year.”

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A selection of some local breaking stories featured this week on...

The Weekend Sun

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St Peters’ Church Christmas dinner organisers Rob William, senior minister Simon McLeay and Cate Burton will be helping out on the day. Photo by Tracy Hardy.

Christmas spirit About 200 people are set to enjoy a festive feast on Christmas Day with St Peters in the City hosting its 25th free dinner at the church on December 25.

St Peters’ Church senior minister Simon McLeay says the church’s quarter-century effort is a special occasion – but it’s even more special for those who receive the generosity on a day that’s not easy to spend alone or when the chips are down.

He says from 3pm on Christmas Day about 70 volunteers will flood St Peters to busily prepare the feast, which is served at 5pm.

“This year we’re serving chicken, ham, roast vegetables, new potatoes and peas,” says Simon.

“We’ll have ice cream and fruit for dessert – and the children will receive a Christmas gift.”

The food for the event is generously donated by church followers and the local community – and the church is set up with tables festively decorated for the event.

Being St Peter’s Minster for five years, Simon says this is his first time coordinating the event – which he know brings joy to a cross-section of the Tauranga community.

“It’s a real mix who come along. We get large families, single older people who’d otherwise be on their own, and some of the street guys who are homeless.

“It’s a really nice atmosphere; and if not for the dinner some needy families may otherwise spend the day with a much simpler Christmas meal.”

Simon says there will be light entertainment, including a short video of the Christmas story, but mostly people are “all enjoying dinner together”.

“It’s a festive fun time – and there’s smiles on peoples’ faces all around the place.”

The dinner starts at 5pm Christmas Day at St Peters in the City, corner of Cameron Rd and Spring St. Simon says the event is “pretty full” but people can call St Peters Church office on 07 578 9608 and the church will try to serve them a meal. Volunteers are welcome on the day.

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New alcohol limits this season This festive season Bay drivers should keep in mind the breath alcohol limits for drivers, which came into effect on December 1, before they turn the key to get home.

Passed into law in August, The Land Transport Amendment Act (no 2) 2014 has lowered the drinkdriving limits for adult drivers.

The new breath alcohol limit for adult drivers aged 20-plus is 250 micrograms of

alcohol per litre of breath. The new blood alcohol limit is 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood.

Drivers who commit an offence between 251-400mcg of breath will face infringement fee of $200 and will receive 50 demerit points.

Drivers who accumulate 100 or more demerit points from driving offences within two years receive a three-month driver licence suspension.

The zero alcohol limit for drivers under the age of 20 remains the same.

The Weekend Sun

Patrol presence With patrol flags and a keen safety eye on swimmers, volunteer surf lifeguards are preparing to keep watch over Mount Maunganui’s second busiest stretch of beach for the next fortnight.

Omanu Surf Life Saving Club volunteer lifeguards Yvonne Jarvis and Jack Beaumont. Photo by Cameron Avery.

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From December 28 surf lifeguards will be at Tay St after a successful bid by Surf Life Saving New Zealand for a flagged area from Tauranga City Council.

During summer volunteer lifeguards from the Mount Maunganui and Omanu services will be stationed at the beach – a halfway point for the two clubs.

SLSNZ Eastern Region manager Chris Emmett says Tay St has been an area in need of a patrol for quite some time and TCC’s approval allows for a greater presence and a better management plan.

SLSNZ figures show between December 30, 2013, and January 1, 2014, there were two rescues at Tay St and six rescues the year before from December 29, 2012, and January 7, 2013.

“Tay St is the second most frequented stretch of beach during the New Year and post New Year period.

We have 1500 on the beach and up to 1400 in the water each day.”

“For us, it’s very much getting back to patrolling that area a little more regularly.”

Chris understands beachgoers will swim where they want, but SLSNZ encourages them to always swim at a patrolled beach and within a flagged area – the Tay St patrol giving them a further option. Omanu club’s

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patrol captain Mike Swan endorses the move, saying SLSNZ data shows a prudent move to allocate a form of regular patrol on the stretch of coast.

“It’s a reaction to the increased usage of the Tay St destination as a swimming beach. Its popularity has been increasing steadily over the last few years.”

Mike says effects from partial removal of the artificial reef in front of Tay St are yet to be seen, but in the past it’s “undoubtedly contributed” to holes and rips.

“Once it’s gone the effects of its removal remain to be seen, but beaches are forever changing.

“There will always be rips along the coast and whether or not the removal of the reef removes all dangers I find it highly unlikely.”

The next fortnight will see volunteer lifeguards patrol the flagged area 10am-6pm Monday to Friday.

Chris says when the flags are not up, based on conditions, the clubs resort back to roaming patrols from either end of the beach.

“If in doubt of the safest place to swim, always seek advice from the lifeguards; they’re there to help you.”

Mount Maunganui and Omanu Beach volunteer lifeguards will mirror the paid Regional Lifeguard Service during weekends, either side of the Tay St patrol.

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The Weekend Sun

All aboard!

A very cute and apparently necessary initiative has been introduced to Arataki School for pupils who can’t find their friends at play times.

The Friendship Bus Stop is the newest addition to the school for lost pupils to sit at, as an indication they’ve lost their friends.

The idea is that fellow pupils will see them and invite them to play.

“It’s a sort of support friendship network – and very cute,” says Year 2 teacher Kylie Whitehead, who is leading the initiative after hearing her niece’s school in Whakatane introduced the idea.

Kylie says the bus stop is part of an enquiry learning unit, where the students identified a need at the beginning of the year to help children who were upset in the playground because they couldn’t find their friends – or

the Friendship Bus Stop

didn’t have anyone to play with.

“We surveyed the children and they decided there was a large percentage of them that sometimes do lose their friends,” says Kylie, who believes it’s the junior pupils who most expressed the need.

“They’ll go to the toilet and can’t find their friends again, or their friends might be away sick that day.”

Kylie says the children wrote a letter to Bunnings, where staff created a bus-shaped seat for the school and donated it to the pupils this week. By Zoe Hunter

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Arataki Primary School pupils Jarome Bidois, 7, Lucy Goodwin, 7, Naera Wirihana-Cole, 7, and Taj Morgan, 7, at the Friendship Bus Stop. Photo by Tracy Hardy.

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The Weekend Sun

Navy recognises top Bay personnel Te Puna’s Kevin Duncan and Katikati’s Liam Forsyth have this month brought home two of the top accolades from the Royal New Zealand Navy’s recent graduation ceremony in Auckland.

The 23-year-olds are among 89 junior officers and sailors who graduated from the RNZN’s Junior Officer Common Training and Basic Common Training Course.

Kevin was awarded the pres-

tigious Minister of Defence Sword of Honour for being the Junior Officer who has displayed the most potential to achieve peak performance as a future leader in the Navy.

The top honour, the sword is awarded only to an exemplary candidate in recognition of excellence and distinguished performance as a midshipman.

Liam received the Spencer Tewsley Cup, awarded to the best all round Basic Common Trainee.

Kevin, a former Otumoetai College student, joined the Navy to apply his mechanical engineering degree to something more meaningful than a job “just computer modelling components or increasing profit for a company”.

Midshipman Duncan’s most enjoyable moment from training was being put to the test in the Damage Control module, fighting fires and floods.

“You’re in the field all week and I enjoyed the variation.” Hours after graduating Kevin was promoted to sub lieutenant at an award ceremony at the officer training headquarters. Next year he’s off to the United Kingdom for six months’ spe-

OCWS Liam Forsyth with his two brothers, Leading Seaman Combat Specialist Boyd Forsyth (left), and Able Electronic Warfare Specialist Taylor Forsyth.

cific naval engineering training before joining a ship.

Liam, an Ordinary Communications Warfare Specialist, followed two brothers into the Navy.

“I’ve gained good friends, self-discipline, enjoyed great food; now I have the ability to travel the world for work. What more could anyone ask for?”

From Katikati, Liam completed a carpentry apprenticeship before joining the Navy.

“My older brother Boyd was always pressuring me to join, as he thought it was great career option.”

Liam commences branch training early-2015.

By Merle Foster

Kevin Duncan receiving the Minister of Defence Sword of Honour from Minister of Defence Gerry Brownlee.

9

The Weekend Sun Garry King will be competing in tomorrow’s Mount Monster event.

Photo by Barbara Newton.

Mastering Monster For one group of Mount Maunganui surf lifesavers proving age is no barrier is vital when it comes to taking on the challenge of conquering the Mount Monster.

Nestled among tomorrow’s field of more than 230 will be a group of masters lifesavers bent on showing they can foot it with the young guns taking on the 25km endurance classic.

None more so than Garry King, whose chance to line up has been exactly 12 months in the making.

“Last year we did the event guarding, where we looked after all the all the competitors with the IRBs. “This year all the masters got together and said: ‘we can do this’ so we entered some teams.”

Training a minimum three times a week the 60-year-old will team up with Russell Reardon, Jim Allen, and Doug Miller to complete the multi-disciplined event.

The race, starting from 10am, features 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.

It starts and finishes on Mount Maunganui’s Main Beach, with the

ski leg taking competitors down to neighbouring Omanu Beach.

“I will be doing the swim leg as I’m the stronger swimmer of the out of the four.

“Doug is a better runner, but he’s done his Achilles in so I think Jim is doing the run; and Doug is doing the board.

And despite being the oldest of the group he wouldn’t have it any other way.

“Age is no barrier, especially when you look at old Sid from Omanu [quipping about 84-year-old Sid Salek], he’s still out there. He’s a good inspiration that boy.”

“We are there to compete and finish the race. And that’s what masters is all about, having fun and enjoying yourself, and keeping fit. As long as we all have fun that’s the main thing.”

Looking to the front of the pack defending men’s champion Cory Taylor is returning to the surf lifesaving showpiece, while his NZ teammate, Omanu’s Max Beattie, is also competing.

Taylor and Beattie are likely to face stiff competition from a handful of eager young locals, including Papamoa’s Mason Bryant, Mount Maunganui’s Sam Shergold and Whangamata’s Bjorn Battaerd.

Beattie and Taylor will chase the $2000 first prize, having returned from their Queensland base after an incredible

By Luke Balvert 12 months.

Frantically busy unemployed Jodie Turner is 40, not the least guarded about her “touch of cerebral palsy” and has never held down a fulltime job.

A slight speech impairment is a telltale sign but not an obstacle.

She’s still on three Government advisory panels, mentors more than 20 young needy Tauranga people and MCs national seminars and conferences.

Jodie is also the three-term president of People First New Zealand Incorporated – because she’s good at it.

And she agrees to be photographed for The Weekend Sun, but only after an all-day meeting in Rotorua and before she flies to Christchurch on business the following day.

And this for someone who doesn’t hold a job.

The indefatigable Jodie is an impressive advocate for those she serves.

Those are people with learning dif-

One-of-a kind president of People First, Jodie Turner. ficulties – not learning as in the ABC or maths or spelling – but learning as in financial management, caring for yourself and the other curve balls life can throw at a person with a disability.

“For example, I have a friend in a wheelchair who is having money problems – and that could become a burden for all of us if we don’t manage it.”

To read the full story, go to SunLive. co.nz and search ‘Putting people first’.

By Hunter Wells

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The Weekend Sun

Anna’s $5000 bonanza Instant Effect’s Rebecca Osmond, winner Anna Stowers and nursery owner Mark Osmond.

A cheque for $5000 cash lies on the kitchen bench at the Stowers’ household in Papamoa.

Both Anna and Shannon Stowers keep staring at it, touching it. It’s burning a hole.

“We’re blown away,” says Anna.

“Nothing like this ever happens to us.”

But eureka! It did happen – Anna Stowers, wife of Shannon and mother of nine-year-old Brayden and seven-year-old Tayla takes home the cash in The Weekend Sun’s big $5000 Shop ‘n’ Win promotion at Papamoa.

It’ll make a big difference for the Stowers.

They were staying home this Christmas – now there’ll be a holiday to Whitianga or Auckland at the end of summer.

The children wished for a trampoline. That wish will become a reality.

On Wednesday Anna was lured back to Instant Effect garden nursery in Papamoa, where she entered the Shop ‘n’ Win. She was overcome when SunMedia director Claire gave her the $5000 and a hug.

“I don’t believe this. I love you all.”

And she was buzzing all the way home, to where a sick hubby Shannon was asleep in bed.

“He sat bolt upright when I told him about the money. He said to me: ‘Hey Babe, you so deserve this’. Now we are just standing here watching the cheque.”

Anna says she’s never won anything. Well she has now, and she’s won big courtesy of The Weekend Sun and Papamoa Unlimited – a

consortium of Papamoa business interests.

A beaming and proud Mark Ormond of Instant Effect garden nursery got $1000 for being the successful retailer in The Weekend Sun promotion.

“It’s been a hugely successful partnership with Papamoa,” says Claire. So expect another Shop ‘n’ Win next year.

Anna is just one of 20,158 entries from a suburb of 22,000 people.

Papamoa Unlimited’s David Hill says it’s by far the most successful promotion ever conducted in Tauranga’s biggest and fastest growing suburb.

“And we appreciate the confidence of The Weekend Sun for tapping into Papamoa’s sense of community.”

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11

The Weekend Sun

City roadworks shutdown Growing awards

Tauranga City Council is advising residents and visitors that all roadwork sites throughout Tauranga will be shutdown from 5pm Saturday, December 20, 2014, and will not start up until 7am on Monday, January 5, 2015.

Plus, work around The Strand, Devonport Rd and Grey St in the Tauranga City Centre and streets north of Bank and Salisbury Aves at Mount Maunganui will be suspended for an extra week and will restart after 7am on Monday, January 12, 2015.

But emergency works may still take place during this time if necessary.

Rhyhan’s ‘a hero’

Happy Easter!

Rhyhan Faithfull is being dubbed a hero. Photo by Bruce Barnard.

He’s just a typical, chilled-out teenager. He greets his mates with a secret handshake and jolts his head back to say hello – or “sup” as they say.

He likes hanging out with his friends at the skate park – and doing things teenagers do.

But that’s not how others see him. They’re dubbing the 13-yearold Rhyhan Faithfull a hero.

It was 3.30pm on December 13 and Rhyhan was just chilling with his buddies at McLaren Falls moments before he jumped into the water to try and save Pakistan man Muhammad Jawad from drowning.

In front of more than 10 people, Rhyhan climbed down to the rocks and grabbed the man’s arm in an attempt to pull him to safety. “Someone was drowning. I had to go rescue him so I

just jumped in.” He didn’t think twice about it. “I was just thinking about trying to save the man.”

Rhyhan says one of the man’s friends was already at the water’s edge desperately trying to pull him out – but he had to let go and motioned for Rhyhan to help.

Rhyhan tried a little longer, pulling with all his might to bring the man above water.

But he too had to let go to save himself from being dragged under.

Speaking to The Weekend Sun three days after the incident, the teenager is quietly reflective of what happened that day.

His eyes drop and his head droops when he remembers the man died that day.

“The man was too heavy for me and I started getting dragged under the water too, so I had to let him go.

“He just sunk straight away,” says Rhyhan.

Images of the man sinking below

Brookfield Kindergarten has been named the Tauranga Regional Winner of the Daltons Sunflowers in Kindergartens Project.

The kindergarten grew the tallest sunflowers reaching 178cm to win the accolade in the competition, which is an initiative to encourage kindy kids to learn more about gardening by growing their own sunflowers.

With 245 kindergartens involved from nine regions, there were awards for tallest plants and widest sunflower heads in each region.

the surface play over in his head.

“I’ve been trying not to think about it,” says Rhyhan. There’s also a ‘what if?’ that plays over in his head.

“What if I died too? What if he lived?”

But the teen, who tried his darndest to save a man’s life, comes across as emotionally mature and reassures us he’s coping well following the tragedy.

Mention the fact more than 40,000 people have read of his bravery on SunLive’s Facebook page and the teen smiles, nods, takes a deep breath and says: “It feels pretty good”.

He’s very humble.

To him, a hero is someone who can help someone else.

“Or someone who does something good in their life,” says Rhyhan.

“That means I’m a pretty good person; and it feels like it.”

By Zoe Hunter

See us this Christmas holidays at Freedom Villages, and you could be in your new Freedom home by Easter 2015 – making it a very happy Easter indeed.

COME SEE OUR STUNNING PAPAMOA VILLAGE OPEN 7 DAYS MON-FRI: 10-4PM WEEKENDS: 11-3PM STAGE 2 NOW OPEN!

Merry Christmas from Freedom Villages

Keeping an eye out for algal blooms this summer As summer temperatures begin to warm up our favourite swimming spots, monitoring of the Bay of Plenty’s lakes and rivers has begun to ensure safe recreational water use for all.

Monitoring is for signs of potentially toxic algal blooms, which can affect

lakes and rivers.

Direct exposure to the algae can cause skin rashes and stomach upsets.

Hayfever and asthma may also be worsened.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council and Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service will monitor main lakes and

rivers throughout summer, taking weekly records for signs of the blue-green algae.

If significant blooms are found specific health warnings will be issued.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Jim Mille, says look before you leap.

“If the water looks discoloured, smells unusual, or if there is scum on the surface of lakes or on the beds of rivers, swim or play somewhere else.

“If you have concerns about possible blooms let BOPRC or your local council know.”

61 Golden Sands Drive, Papamoa Phone 0800 OVER 5O (0800 683 750) www.freedomvillages.co.nz

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12

The Weekend Sun

Repairing soldiers’ gravestones A campaign to replace two soldiers’ headstones in the old Tauranga cemetery has now been completed with an unexpectedly happy result.

Thanks to a successful fundraising effort and generosity of Ray McKenzie Monumental Masons the final resting places of not two but three old soldiers have been marked.

Genealogy society member Heather McLean, who has been researching for many years the “fascinating history” revealed on headstone inscriptions, started the campaign when she discovered two veterans’ headstones in the old cemetery had been destroyed.

One belonging to World War I Canterbury Mounted Rifles Trooper Robert Cooper had been smashed, and the plaque marking the grave of World War II’s 25th Battalion veteran Private Lewis Jones had been stolen – possibly for its scrap value.

Heather and fellow WW100 Committee member Fiona Kean consider it important those who had fought and died in those conflicts are properly remembered, and earlier this year launched a fundraising appeal to have them repaired.

Thanks to generosity of the Mount Maunganui RSA, the Tauranga historical

and genealogy societies and some private donations sufficient, funds were obtained to provide not only a new headstone for Trooper Cooper and bronze plaque for Private Jones, but mark the previously anonymous grave of WWI Pioneer Battalion veteran Private Pani Retimana.

All three headstones were installed late last month.

Originally from Opotiki, Private Retimana, who died in 1948, was incorrectly recorded in the cemetery register as “Barney” Richmond.

His grave, in the cemetery’s Catholic section, was never marked and simply grassed over.

While born elsewhere all three veterans subsequently worked and died in the Tauranga district.

Heather has recently made contact with descendants of both Trooper Cooper and Pani Retima, who had themselves been seeking information about their ancestors.

“They both plan to visit the graves next year,” says Heather.

By Dave Blanshard

Pictured: Genealogy society member Heather McLean.

Join TSB Bank and you could have an even happier New Year with a new iPhone 6.

Become a TSB Bank customer before the end of December and you’ll go in the draw to win a brand new iPhone 6. Just open a new account and you’re in the draw.

A Disclosure Statement is available from TSB Bank Ltd. Offer available only to new personal customers who join the bank between 12-31 December 2014. New transactional, savings and investment accounts, as well as new lending taken out during the promotional period will be given one entry into the prize draw to win a 16GB iPhone 6, valued at $999 RRP. TSB Bank’s standard product and lending terms and conditions apply, including minimum deposit and loan values. See TSB Bank for full product and lending terms and conditions. The prize draw will take place on Monday 12th January 2015. See prize draw terms and conditions for full details. Apple is a trademark of Apple Inc. Apple is not a participant in or sponsor of this promotion.

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13

The Weekend Sun

Lasting impression

Twilight concerts go to Saturdays Katikati’s 2015 twilight concerts series is shifting to Saturday night performances, straying from the traditional Sunday evening shows.

Spokesperson Jenni Wilson says wet weather in the last few seasons hampered numbers attending; and gigs on Sundays leaves no space for postponing.

“So we’ve done gone for Saturday night performances, with a back-up day on Sunday.”

The January 3 concert features the Tina Cross Band; January 24’s concert is the American Great Tribute Show; and the final concert on February 14 is NZ Blues Brothers.

Concerts are at the Haiku Reserve, Katikati. Gates open 5pm.

Gate tickets cost $20 each, or a season pass costs $45 from Katikati Information Centre. For updates 07 549 3549 or www.katikaticoncerts.co.nz

Outgoing teacher at Mount Maunganui Primary School Lesley Howat will always remember her time at the Orkney Rd school. Photo by Bruce Barnard.

She’s won many medals in her gymnastics career – but Lesley Howat is Mount Maunganui Primary School’s trophy.

Known for doing the splits in class, the outgoing teacher of Mount Primary is charismatic, funny and tough when she needs to be.

It’s only because she wants the best for her pupils.

Lesley’s been at MMPS for 42 years, teaching every level and age group in the school along the way, moulding little lives into success.

Success because she’ll never forget her former pupils calling in to catch up, telling her of their achievements years later.

Principal Damien Harris says that’s Lesley though “she always makes time for people, to talk, to share – to listen”.

“It’s been great when children return as parents to the school and their children are involved in MMPS,” says Lesley.

Damien says Lesley is a trusted, loved and respected teacher and will leave a lasting impression on the school.

She already has, having taught today’s ‘Mounties’, their parents, their brothers and sisters – and possibly their grandparents.

“My fondest memories and what I’ll remember the most is the close involvement with children and parents,” says Lesley.

“I’ll remember the camps, musical productions, creative art activities and sports, such as lunchtime T-ball, Olympic Sports days, triathlons and gymnastics.”

Lesley has spent 42 of her 48 years in the education sector, saying: “This school is very special to me and has been an extremely large part of my life”.

She thinks of Mount Primary as a family – and Damien says she’s the matriarch.

“Students who’ve been in Les’ class have had an education that’s prepared them for their futures.

“Credit to Les that she’s moved with the times, changed, improved, reinvented herself as needs arose to ensure her kids got the best possible education in their time with her,” says Damien.

“As one of her former pupils, I wish Lesley all the best for the future. You’re smile, ‘way-to-go’ stickers, and no-fuss attitude will always be remembered.”

By Zoe Hunter

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14

The Weekend Sun

Photographing plenty for everyone ‘Throw it already’

by Jay Drew.

On Resene premium paints, stains, primers, sealers, wallpaper, decorating accessories and cleaning products

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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 eyecatching shots will be displayed at the 2015 ‘Exploring Pixels’ exhibition, hosted by Tauranga Photographic Society, at Tauranga Racecourse from April 29-May 3.

Committee member Annette Johnston says 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.

Tourism Bay of Plenty’s Kristen Dunne says the theme for this year’s competition is ‘Plenty for Everyone’.

“Plenty for Everyone’ is the Bay’s tourism campaign. Photography is such an important part of selling our region to international and domestic visitors.

“We are asking photographers to spontaneously capture the natural beauty of the region and

show its diversity and abundance, as well as show family and friends enjoying what the Bay has to offer.”

Entries will be judged by a panel of representatives from Tauranga Photographic Society, Tourism BOP and SunMedia.

First prize includes an A2 Premium Canvas valued at $250 from Carters Photographics, while second place offers a Canon Printer PIXMA MG5560.

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.

Spotlighted in Natex will be the Ronald D Woolf Youth Award and Silver Medal, awarded to the best print entered by a photographer aged under 25.

Annette says 2015’s annual convention is expected to bring as many as 300 photographers from throughout New Zealand to Tauranga.

“The convention will feature world class photographers, who as keynote speakers will inspire and educate through presentations and workshops.

“The convention will be a great opportunity to experience the trends, techniques and development of photographic art and of course the chance to meet fellow photographers.” By Zoe Hunter

A real shopping treat Would you like to win the ultimate shoppers’ dream prize? If so, keep reading – The Weekend Sun is pairing up with NZSALE.CO.NZ to give one lucky reader a real online shopping treat this Christmas.

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homewares and living, toys, wine and more.

Plus, new sales start daily – membership is free – so head to nzsale.co.uk, or download the app.

The Weekend Sun has one $500 credit for NZSALE.CO.NZ to give away to a lucky reader who can tell us how many hours the online shopping club operates daily?

Enter online at www.sunlive.co.nz under the competitions section. Entries must be received by Monday, December 22.

15

The Weekend Sun

Helping the children Tauranga families are being encouraged to spare a few dollars for local children who’ve experienced abuse and neglect this Christmas.

Homes of Hope CEO and cofounder Hilary Price says the charitable trust will provide these children with protection, shelter and support for as long as they need it this festive season.

“Two things will happen at Homes of Hope this Christmas.

Lives will be protected and the children will be showered with love – the love that the Christmas story tells.

“We’ve cared for 150 children so far – and your donation will help to ensure that we can help the next 150.”

According to Homes of Hope, critical child abuse and neglect is

the reality for an average of one in four children in Tauranga.

There are two children suffering abuse every hour – an average of 20 per cent of the child population.

“These precious, hurting children need our help,” says Hilary. “If unsupported they could become hurting adults, and hurting adults create more hurting children – unless we help.”

Begin a monthly donation and become part of the Homes of Hope Family today. Automatic Payments can be set up via 01-04340258543-00. Visit www.homesofhope.org. nz or www.facebook. com/HomesofHopeNZ to find out more. By Zoe Hunter

What does the festive season mean to you?

“Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before! What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store? What if Christmas...perhaps... means a little bit more!”

– DR SEUSS

I recently read some Christmas gift suggestions that remind me of what the true spirit of Christmas can be… to extend to your enemy, forgiveness; to an opponent, tolerance; to a customer, service; to a friend, your heart; to every child, a good exam-

ple; to all, charity; and to yourself, respect.

What does Christmas mean to you?

May you all have a very happy and blessed Christmas!

If you’d like to know more about coaching phone Mary Parker on 07 577 1200, or visit www.coachingtheattitude.co.nz

16

The Weekend Sun

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Battle exhibition returns

The walk-through exhibition of the Battle of Gate Pa is returning to the city due to “very supportive and encouraging” feedback from visitors.

The exhibition, launched in May, proved so popular with locals it’s seen the Battle of Gate Pa Trust re-open the display at Tauranga Moana Hall at No.3 The Strand today.

The exhibition, running to April 2015, showcases artefacts of the April 29, 1864 battle.

Trust chairman Terry Molloy says about 11,000 people saw the exhibition at Greerton Hall from May 3-June 2, ending with a visitor comments book filled with positive feedback.

“One thousand comments were made and all were very supportive and encouraging us to find a home for it and keep

it going. We’ve found the exhibition has stimulated an interest and a thirst for more knowledge in our early history in Tauranga; and we need to fill that interest and thirst as best as we possibly can.”

The aim is to educate the community of its history; that’s why the trust is seeking a permanent home for the exhibition. One option is warehouses opposite The Cargo Shed, says Terry.

“There’s so many people who don’t really know of our history and they don’t know the impacts that history had on the people of Tauranga at that time.

“Some of those impacts have been quite dramatic and they affect our relationships right through to today.

“The more people who know and understand the facts of our history, the more we’re able to relate to one another more comfortably.”

The exhibition is 10am-4pm Fridays to Sundays, and cruise ship days.

Outdoor workout equipment for the Mount?

Outdoor exercising areas are becoming a popular trend all around the world, in places like parks, and on coastal walks and other recreational areas.

The equipment is modern, streamlined and very userfriendly with easy to follow instructional signage.

There is something for all levels of fitness and strength, including

assisted pull-ups, dip bars, shoulder presses, triceps and biceps curls, lat pulldowns, a balance beam and other agility type equipment.

It would be great to see similar areas developed around The Mount and Tauranga, as it’s such a brilliant way to add crosstraining elements to any walk or run.

Enjoy a lovely Christmas passionate people One of the most common questions I receive is: ‘What have the first months as an MP been like? Is it what you expected?’

My answer: “No – it’s harder work, more intense, immense fun; and I love every minute of it”.

Being an MP often calls for 70-80 hour weeks, Monday to Saturday, and includes a lot of travel and

time away from the family.

As a rule, I try to have Sunday with the family. In most jobs you specialise over-time; however, an MP is exposed to an extraordinary breadth of issues that exist in the community and parliament.

On an evening in Wellington I could be pouring over reports and summaries on a current bill in the House.

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Tamati Tata and Terry Molloy at the blessing of the exhibition earlier this week.

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The Weekend Sun

17 Fall in love with Fearless Fred

Sporting sensations on sand Sand and surf is expected to fly at Mount Maunganui from Boxing Day, with three popular sporting events unfolding on the main beach.

First to the starting line is the annual Mount King and Queen of the Mount on December 26, when keen runners racing a 4.5km circuit from the beach opposite Mount Drury to the summit of Mauao.

Junior runners can join in the race too, in a shorter 3km track half way up The Mount.

Tauranga Ramblers president Malcolm Taylor is expecting the usual 160-plus entries this year, with the race attracting the usual suspects including the McDonald brothers, and Ben Ruthe.

He’s also expecting the women’s race to be left wide open for the win this year, with the absence of 2013 Queen of the Mount Helen Roundtree, who he says isn’t returning to defend her title.

“I think that will give Tauranga’s Sarah Backler [placing a close second last year] a good chance,” says Malcolm, who’s encouraging all runners to be fit and rearing to go on the big day.

The junior race starts 2pm on December 26, with the main event from 2.30pm. Register at www.taurangaramblers.co.nz Next to hit the sand is the Mauao Beach Volleyball Series 2014 Grand Slam at Mount Main Beach on December 27-28.

Volleyball Bay of Plenty administrator Maria Woods says beach-goers can view some top New Zealand teams digging their toes in the sand for double points towards January’s national series, in two days of intense volleyball.

“The top NZ men’s team comes from the Bay – Sam O’Dea and Mike Watson. They quite like winning here.”

Games begin 9am on Saturday and Sunday, December 27-28.

Sharing the sand at Mount Main Beach on December 27 is the Eves Surfbreaker Triathlon from 8am.

The Surfbreaker Triathlon is the first of the three Eve’s Triathlon Series 2014/2015, which includes the Eve’s Pilot Bay Classic on January 26 and Eve’s Coronation Classic on March 1. Events will include sprint and super sprint triathlon distances – and a duathlon option. Register at www.triathlon.net.nz By Zoe Hunter

Fun bike riding for Pukehina’s brigade

of fun. Anyone can be The Pukehina Fire involved.

Brigade’s fun walk was If people can only so much fun last year do half the walk, we they’ve extended it by have a John Deer adding a run and a walk gator at the back. It’s a to the fundraiser on six-wheel vehicle with December 28. trailer that can take the “It’s not a race, it’s bikes. a family thing where “And there’s the firstpeople pay $2 to enter,” Ants Meyer and Pukehina fire brigade supporters response vehicle, and says organiser Ants are inviting people to take part in the fun bike the car that does the Meyer. ride walk on December 28. community patrols.”

The walkers’ route is the two “We had a great response, so The Pukehina brigade, with 19 kilometres or so from the Pukehina this year we have incorporated the volunteers, has attended 109 call Fire Brigade to the star location of biking and the walking to get more outs so far this year. the movie The Z Nail Gang, the Chief fire Officer Errol Watts will bar and restaurant The Hippy Pipi, people involved, like nanas with their grandies in pushchairs and be taking part in the bike ride with and back again. things like that. his grandson. Ants doesn’t think The walkers and runners travel “Afterwards, there are spot prizes Errol will need the help of the the six kilometres from the fire staand a sausage sizzle to raise funds gator, or the first-response vehicle. tion to the estuary and back. for our first-response vehicle.”

“He’s a fit man, he does Coast to “You can either run all the way Start time for the walkers is 10am Coasts and things like that.” or use your bike all the way,” says with the runners and bikers starting Among prizes is one for Ants.

10.15am. best-dressed on the bike ride, “We started off last year and we “Just come along and have a bit says Ants. want it to be an annual thing.

‘Fearless Fred’ is the sweetest cat. He loves pats, cuddles, attention and has a lovely nature. He’s an older boy but still acts like he’s young at heart.

His owner went into a retirement home, so ARRC is finding him a new home.

All of ARRC’s cats up for adoption have been desexed and vet-checked and cost $60 each to adopt, to help with some of the vet costs.

If you’d like to meet Fred, 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.

18

The Weekend Sun

Loving and loathing from the public My kids are 23 and 21 respectively.

They’re’ adults. And still, after all this time, we have never ever questioned the existence of the big fat chap from the North Pole and his largesse.

ALWAYS WANTED TO FLY?

Give yourself the opportunity this Christmas!

I suspect the young adults no longer buy into the myth and the magic but we all love the ritual so why destroy something that brings such pleasure.

They also have a vested interest in at least appearing to “believe” because we do presents well.

For example, I do get socks but they’re a $35 Thorlos for jogging.

This year will be the same. We’ll sit under a real Christmas tree with our red hats and Boney M in full throat, exchange gifts, open them in turn; and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

But presents can go wrong. We assume people close to us know us well enough to get us good gifts. So if you strike a bad one, it can impact badly on a relationship.

Men and women handle it differently – the woman pretends it’s what she always wanted while the man vents. And the arguments start.

Sunlive’s Facebook page asked for your ‘argument starters’ – these are the best of your worst Christmas offerings: • “A broom, seriously a broom” – Michelle Best.

• “Bathroom scales from my husband” – Sharon Hare.

• “A cheap second-hand cellphone in an S5 Samsung box – worst and meanest gift ever” –Ilana Davies.

• “I didn’t want anything for Christmas so my partner gave me a big, nicely wrapped empty box” – Janine Durham.

• “A jacket with someone’s shopping list in the pocket’ – Carol Gibbons.

• “A fire alarm from my volunteer fireman uncle who gets ‘em free” – Chad Crowther.

• “Pink rubber washing up gloves from my husband’s grandmother” – Toni Fisher.

• “A dead strawberry plant in a hanging planter” – Rochelle Belcher.

• “A plastic bag full of magazine product samples” – Olivia Gray.

• “An electric can opener from my

boyfriend” – Rowena Crowly.

• “Barbie doll’s yacht but no Barbie doll” Lisa Makitae.

• “A shower rose” – Michelle Trembath.

• “An optometrist’s voucher” – Nancy Crossan.

• “A dirty and used batterypowered can opener” – Paul Turner.

• “A vacuum cleaner that my ex-husband wanted for his commercial cleaning job” – Liz Grant.

• “I got seven presents, seven pairs of socks” – Gary N. • “My fav pair of Nikes – both left feet, one size 9 and one size 8” – Amo Rach Kairuku Tukaki.

• “My then husband bought perfume packs and cologne for the brothers and their partners and nothing for me!” – Kelly-Anne Waite.

• “A 1B4 school exercise book when I was 13” – Cara Hight.

So do your damnedest Santa. Think carefully, buy wisely and let everyone be content with their lot.

By Jim Bunny

S1449abtgglide

Gifting foster children a fun day Tomorrow’s Western Bay of Plenty Christmas family fun day at Baywave Aquatics Centre is offering the region’s foster children a chance to celebrate the festive season.

Sponsored by local businesses and the community, the event is for children in foster care –plus other deserving children are given entry coupons.

Funds raised above the event’s cost go to Fostering Kids New Zealand, which works with children in foster care in the community.

Children who attend will be treated to free access to Baywave and greeted with

a fun party atmosphere, with free food and drinks, clowns entertaining, games and spot prizes.

Plus, Santa will make an appearance and give Christmas presents to the children.

Businesses are welcome sponsor the event – tickets are $50 each and upon receipt of payment the business’ details will be printed on the back of tickets so children and their parents will know who sponsored them. Businesses also receive a receipt for tax purposes. To get involved, email Robyn Schwass on promotions.31@familyfunday.co.nz

19

The Weekend Sun

Shop smart this silly season Consumer NZ has 10 tips to help you through the preChristmas rush to buy presents and the Boxing Day sales.

1. Not sure the present you’re buying is right? Ask for an exchange card so the recipient can change it. No exchange card? Some stores may exchange the item as good customer service if you have a receipt.

2. Buying something electronic and asked if you want the extended warranty?

In most cases we don’t think they’re worth it because the Consumer Guarantees Act means retailers have to repair or replace faulty goods or refund your money.

3. Buying a gift card? Ask about the expiry date. Short expiry dates mean the card can become worthless before the recipient can redeem it.

4. Use gift cards as soon as you can to avoid losing it. Ask the store for a grace period if you can’t use it before expiry.

5. Bought something online that never showed up? Or maybe it did but was nothing like what was described? If the retailer refuses to put things right, get to your bank for a credit-card or debit-card chargeback. If your claim is accepted, you’ll be returned your money but unsuccessful claims cost $5-$10.

6. Safety is most important when buying for children. Watch for parts a child could pull off and swallow. For toys with button batteries, ensure the child can’t get to them.

7. Check receipts and bank statements.

It’s a busy time and mistakes happen.

8. Under the Consumer Guarantees Act, online retailers who arrange delivery have to ensure items arrive on time and in good condition.

And retailers have to put things right when an item arrives damaged, not the courier. For problems with overseas traders, see econsumer.gov about consumer rights in other countries.

Win some natural products There’s no better body care products, made from natural organic New Zealand ingredients, than those from Pure Blend.

Pure Blend has a huge range of products covering facial, lip, oral, hair, hand and foot care.

There’s also a sun care range, massage products and deodorants and perfumes.

All products are fresh and made in small batches to maintain

quality – and don’t have sodium lauryl sulphate, petrochemicals, parabens, artificial colours or fragrances, caustic soda, bleaches or animal products.

The Weekend Sun has one Pure Blend prize pack to give away to one lucky reader who can tell us what size batches are made?

Enter online at www. sunlive.co.nz under the competitions section.

Entries must be received

by Monday, December 22.

9. Not sure what model to get? See consumer. org.nz to compare test results for thousands of products.

10. Making the most of the Boxing Day sales? Check you’re really getting a bargain. Browse retailer websites to ensure there’s no better deal.

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20

Masonic Family Fun Day this Sunday With bad weather last Sunday, the second annual Masonic Family Fun day is now on this Sunday, December 21.

The event’s format hasn’t changed with entertainment starting at 11am with face painting, a bouncy castle, bucking bull challenges, fire engine and lawn mower rides, a lolly

scramble and, of course, a visit from Santa himself!

The Masonic Park Family Fun Day runs from 11am-2pm and entry is via gold coin donation, with all proceeds going to the Variety Children’s Charity.

To keep up to date should the weather dampen things again see The Phoenix’s Facebook page.

The Weekend Sun

Youngsters’ competitive summer edge About 400 junior surf lifesavers will compete in this year’s Bay of Plenty Junior Championships.

Junior surf lifesavers will not only be honing their skills for the summer season but ensuring their respective clubs enter the festive season with bragging rights following this weekend’s Bay of Plenty Junior Championships.

On Sunday, Mount Maunganui’s Main Beach will be transformed into a competitive cauldron with nearly 400 lifesavers under the age of 14 competing in the annual event.

Taking to both sand and water the competitors, ranging from under eight to under 14, will participate in an array of events including beach sprints, surf races, and board relays.

“It’s all about recognising the performance of our athletes as well as giving them opportunity to test their skills,” says SLNZ Eastern region sport manager Scott Bicknell.

“Our main focus is to have fun and create better, more skilled experienced lifeguards and to retain them.”

Scott says the event returns as a standalone event following popular demand from across the region.

This is the only junior club competition held at on Mount Maunganui Main Beach prior to the Eastern Region Junior Championships and 2015 U14 New Zealand Championships.

“I think there was a massive demand to fill the gap

with a championship event; plus all the clubs are competitive.”

Of clubs attending Mount Maunganui, Papamoa and defending champions Omanu return with the largest competitive rosters, with between 74 and 84 each, setting their sights on the overall title.

There are also good contingents from Waihi and Whangamata coming.

“It should be a really good competition between the Mount, Omanu and Papamoa to take out the title.”

The Bay of Plenty Junior Championships run from 9am-4.30pm at Mount Main Beach.

By Luke Balvert

Skate competition at Christmas event A skateboard competition is set to roll at Tauranga’s Christmas in the Park tomorrow afternoon at Blake Park.

The competition, along with a kids’ workshop and free giveaways, will run simultaneously to the park event, from 2pm-9.30pm. The competition has two sections: under 13s and under 16s. Entry costs $5 and children under five enter for free. For information, visit: copious.co.nz

TRYathlon buddies up for early event

Free Face Painting!!

Tauranga’s Sanitarium’s Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon is next year to be held in conjunction with The Mount Festival of Multisport for the first time, pushing the event forward by one month.

Entries are now open for the Mount Maunganui TRYathlon for children aged seven-15, which will be at Pilot Bay on January 11, 2015.

Kiwi shotput sensation Valerie Adams has signed on as the TRYathlon ambassador for the 2014-2015

series. Kiwi kids can enter the TRYathlon as individuals, or in a team of two. But with limited places available, schools and individuals who want to be involved should get in as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

The Mount Maunganui event is on January 11, 2015, at Pilot Bay. School group registrations close December 18, 2014, and online registrations close January 7, 2015. See www.tryathlon.weetbix.co.nz

21

The Weekend Sun

Riding high after passing her restricted The experience of riding a motorbike is almost unbeatable. This week, I practised hard and thoroughly enjoyed being able to legally ride around the streets.

On 1 October 2012 NZTA changed to a new motorcycle rating system called Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme – or LAMS. This allows learner riders to purchase motorcycles up to 660cc, with a maximum power-to-weight ratio of 150kw/tonne. This means the learner or restricted licence holder now has a wide range of options, as they’re no

Displaying a learner licence plate is an extremely important safety precaution, as it shows motorists you still have your ‘trainer wheels’ on.

To receive greater enjoyment from riding, I seriously want to move past the beginner stage and reinforce all the skills I’ve learnt.

longer restricted to a 250cc motorcycle.

Examples of some of the new bikes fitting this criteria are: Hyosung 250cc or 650cc, Yamaha FZ6, MT07, XV650 and XV250cc, Triumph Street Triple 660cc, Ducati Monster 659cc So best to check out your local motorcycle shop and test ride what’s on offer to see what ticks your boxes.

Nerve racking

I want to become a safer, more experienced rider, which I encourage all learner motorcyclists to do by aiming to get their restricted licence.

Sitting my restricted was nerve wracking, but practice makes almost perfect – and I passed!

I cannot stress how much Chris Welch from Western Bay Driving helped me with her tuition; there’s no way I would’ve passed without doing her training courses first. The reason she teamed up with Bayride is because she knows her students will get so well looked after by Bayride’s managing director Lindsay Beck. I can certainly vouch for that!

Educated decision

I went to Bayride Motorcycles to look at buying a LAMS motorcycle and some gear.

Lindsay was fantastic to talk to about bike choice and what best suits me.

Christmas in the park Tauranga’s Christmas in the Park event is on at Blake Park tomorrow, offering a range of food, entertainment and activities in what is sits third consecutive ear.

Tomorrow’s offering includes performances by Tiki Taane, Jason Kerrison, Benny Tipene and Tali,

proud to support Chloe Brown outside Bayride.

In future, I’d like to get in to track racing so Chrissie from Bayride offered a wealth of knowledge and assistance, helping me to make an educated decision on types of riding apparel I need for the type of riding I want to do.

I’m looking forward to my future association with the Bayride team, their ladies’ rider group Bayride Babes and Chris’ free-of-charge monthly rides and lessons around the North Island.

Georgia Lines and Daughters of Ally, to raise money for the local community.

There will be markets, a free skate demonstration, free rides on slides,food trucks, free Night Owl cinema, Santa’s grotto and much more.

The event December 20 is at Blake Park from 2pm-9.30pm.

Western Bay Driving

By Chloe Brown

Entry cost $5 and donations of tinned food and presents are also welcome.

Created in 2011 by Rachelle and Chris Duffy, event directors from Tauranga’s The Little Big Markets, Christmas in the Park is a familyfriendly event held on the last Saturday prior to Christmas Day every year.

Bayride works alongside Christine Welch, to help educate and equip new motorcycle riders as well as those returning to this enjoyable and affordable mode of transport.

337 Cameron Road, Tauranga P 07 571 3040 info@bayride.co.nz www.bayride.co.nz

22

The Weekend Sun

Community feeling in Fairview Fairview Estate residents Ross and Glennis McKay relaxing by the new spa. of us,” says Ross. “It’s been built to a very, very high spec.”

Mostly living in bustling places like Auckland and Australia, Ross and Glennis didn’t want their retirement life to be filled with cups of tea in their dressing gowns and slippers.

That’s the life Ross and Glennis McKay lead – and That’s for when they decide to wind down from their they love it. busy days socialising in the café and members’ lounge, Ross and Glennis have lived at Fairview Estate for or barbecue and petanque area – or playing tennis or about 18 months. And they’ve fitted perfectly into the golf.

Fairview community – a community they feel lucky to “We’re in our 60s but we wanted somewhere where live in. we could be active,” says Ross.

“We love everything about it,” says Glennis. “The “We love it. There’s a lot of people with a similar golf, the community, the feeling of community – and mind here. That’s why we came here. You can be as the wonderful café and club house.” involved as you wanted to be.

The newest addition is the indoor pool and spa, “It was a great choice for us.” which Ross swims a few laps in, while Glennis attends Ross says Glennis had never even picked up a Monday morning ladies-only aqua aerobics. putter before moving to Fairview. “Now she’s

By Zoe Hunter “The pool has been an incredible addition for all playing extremely well.”

Imagine stepping off the front porch onto a perfectly groomed 18-hole golf course, or taking a short stroll to the indoor pool and spa for a dip.

23

The Weekend Sun

Milk the way it used to be – with a modern twist many people are also buying it to make cheeses,” says Ruth.

Milk producers are allowed to sell up to five litres of raw milk at any one time from the farm, direct to a consumer and are required to ensure the milk is safe

Walnut Tree Farm owner Craig Roughton with fresh milk. Photo by Tracy Hardy.

There’s a brand new, modern vending machine at Welcome Bay dispensing a very old fashioned product – raw milk virtually straight from the cows.

Walnut Tree Farm in Welcome Bay Rd began selling fresh raw milk last week and already it’s a hit with locals, including some who’d travel to Ngatea and Putaruru to buy raw milk.

Craig and Ruth Roughton own the 9.6ha Walnut Tree Farm, milking eight Friesian cows in a brand new eight-aside herringbone dairy.

They imported a raw milk vending machine from Italy, which refrigerates and dispenses milk 24 hours a day from the farm’s self-service shop.

The couple, who are also sharemilkers at Te Puke, were inspired to begin a raw milk business after receiving requests from people to buy untreated milk, then reading in Coast & Country News about a raw milk company in Nelson.

“We thought, this is a good idea, and began to research what was involved,” says Ruth.

It took time to find the right property – close to Tauranga City so customers wouldn’t have to

Long grass woes in Pyes Pa

Tauranga City Councillors are to reappraise the long-look grass mowing style adopted in July for some city parks as a cost-saving measure, after seeing a video of children complaining about the knee-high grass on the Condor Reserve at Pyes Pa. The youngsters told councillors the long grass was ‘ridiculous’ they couldn’t play in it, and some of the little guys couldn’t even walk in it.

Condor Reserve’s grass was so long neighbours thought contractors had forgotten about them, neighbour Mark Weston told city councillors this week. He also challenged the costs of leaving the grass to grow.

Saving council $50,000 a year, the mowing length will be reconsidered in the 2015/2025 long term plan deliberations, timetabled for January.

travel too far to buy milk.

Now every afternoon the grass-fed cows are milked and the milk is snap-chilled to six degrees Celsius before going into a refrigerated vat connected to the vending machine.

Customers can take their own containers, or buy glass bottles from the farm shop, then pay for their milk with coins or tokens and dispense their own milk – a maximum of five litres per person per day.

“Our customers are enthusiastic about our milk and we’ve heard so many ‘milk stories’ about how they enjoyed fresh raw milk as children.

“As well as drinking our milk,

and fit for purpose. Raw milk is unprocessed, receiving no pasteurisation, homogenisation, additives; and demand for it is growing among fans who believe it tastes better and is more nutritious.

By Elaine Fisher

24

The Weekend Sun

Back into business for mums Pacific Coast Technical Institute is on the cusp of something brand new. The innovative Mount Maunganui tertiary educator has designed a technology course specifically for mums of any age re-entering the workforce.

It’s called Biztech.

PCTI director Mark Hellyer says the small to medium business/enterprise environment is dynamic and technology reliant.

“Prospective mums who don’t necessarily have any high school qualifications can successfully complete our zero fees Biztech – and will automatically achieve their NCEA Level 2 high school qualification.”

Qualified

The two-pronged approach provides students with a high school equivalent qualification, which Mark says is becoming increasingly important to employers and technology skills to get a foot in the door in Bay of Plenty business administration roles.

“More importantly, the large proportion of career-advancing tertiary education

Pacific Coast Technical Institute has designed a technology course specifically for mums re-entering the workforce.

opportunities available in the Bay require a Level 2 qualification as entry criteria.”

Suitable hours

Mark says programme hours are designed to work around the children if they’re still at home.

“The 26-week technology-focused programmes are focused on BOP industries and opportunities exist to expand into other industry areas.

“At the end of PCTI experience tutors help students take the next step going as far as assisting with pathways to employers and other BOP educators.”

Catch up

For more information come and catch up with PCTI over a barista made coffee in their training café – The Jungle – visit www.pcti .co.nz or simply call them on 07 575 2185.

Lawns, wages and housing areas This week two council meetings were scheduled.

At Monday’s council meeting elected members received a petition regarding the mowing and upkeep of Condor Reserve at Pyes Pa. A video, showing the length of grass and concerns raised by local children who use the reserve to play soccer and cricket, was presented during the presentation.

Elected members reduced the lawn mowing level of service on reserves to reduce expenditure. The level of service will be revisited

THE MOUNT

DRYCLEANERS

during the Long Term Plan budget process.

Chris Lee made a presentation to councillors regarding ‘Closing the Gap’ and introducing a ‘living wage’, which is $18.80 per hour.

Elected members have requested more information regarding salaries and this matter will be discussed next year.

A proposed special housing area at Papamoa East was discussed.

Many submissions have been received from residents in this area.

Councillor Steve Morris added some wording to address the concerns of many submitters.

This was supported by elected members.

Council has a Long Term Plan meeting set down for Wednesday – and the agenda includes Major Events Framework, Tauranga Domain Athletics Track resurfacing and Parau Farms Development.

I wish you all the best for a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year – and safe holidays.

Council meetings recommence at the end of January with Council’s Long Term Plan being the major focus.

Broadband work sites

Work to install Ultrafast Broadband is taking place across Tauranga City.

And while most work is being done off the road, if residents experience any problems associated with the work sites call 0800 FIBRE LTD (0800 342 735).

Route K has roadworks

Civil works north of the toll booths on Route K are underway and will continue for the next few months.

Tauranga City Council says most of the time a two-way flow will be maintained “with temporary traffic management plans in place”.

25

The Weekend Sun

Council’s final week of 2014 What a way to finish the year! The final week of council in 2014 contained a few surprises, but overall it shows we’ve made good progress during the last 12 months.

The year-to-date looks like we’ll make $11.7 million operating surplus by June 30, 2015 – which is $3.7 million more than budgeted.

Staff forecast our net debt at June 30, 2015, to be $72.4 million less than budgeted, with $60 million assumed for Route K. However, the relocation of 200 staff out of council’s administration building on Willow St is likely to change some financial forecasts.

I understand the building has leaked during many years following constant additions and alterations.

We aim to deliver most services without disruption as we transition from response mode to recovery mode during the summer break.

Council agreed to support the Papamoa East Special Housing Area, subject to conditions around building height, road safety, and tsunami evacuation routes as requested by councillor Steve Morris.

Council directed the chief executive to report back on the implications of council setting a living wage policy for its employees.

I didn’t support it; not because I don’t acknowledge the growing inequality problem, but because it’s likely

to require a lot of internal resources and media attention, yet achieve relatively very little.

I support council being a good employer and setting professional development programmes to mutually benefit staff and the organisation. I also think our resources are better focused on supporting the Bay of Plenty Tertiary Education Partnership to ensure local people can fit the skill shortages in our local economy.

The Bay of Plenty Tertiary Strategy, as discussed at SmartGrowth on Wednesday, will play a key role in reaching out to those who may have fallen off the vocational pathway by delivering accessible work-related skills, which is demanded by local industries.

Thank you for reading and providing feedback on my columns throughout the year. This will be my last column for a few weeks as council takes a break from formal meetings.

You can reach all elected members by emailing electedmembers@tauranga.govt.nz if you have any thoughts during the summer break. We’ll be around the city throughout summer attending lots of different events.

On behalf of all elected members, we wish you all an enjoyable and safe festive season. See you in 2015!

Feel free to email me your thoughts (matt.cowley@tauranga.govt.nz), call/text me on 027 6989 548, and follow me at www.facebook.com/a.younger.voice.

Investing help in mid-range companies A government service to help businesses raise capital and accelerate international growth is turning its focus to innovative firms and mid-range companies valued at up to $25 million.

Better by Capital was developed from research revealing some potentially high-growth firms find

it difficult to access capital.

Under the programme, NZ Trade and Enterprise works with companies to develop a tailored plan to identify the work they need to do to prepare for new capital investment.

It is run in partnership with national and international financial

institutions, intermediaries, banks and investor networks.

The programme will seek investment for companies with an enterprise value of less than $25 million requiring growth capital between $2m to $10m.

See www.nzte.govt.nz/ BetterbyCapital

Strong today, strong tomorrow We’re pleased to introduce Holland Beckett’s four new Associates. Tim, Ben and David have been promoted through the firm, while Catherine recently joined us to lead the family team. All four are highly skilled in their areas of specialty, adding further strength to our senior legal panel. Need the best? We’ve got it here in the Bay.

David Fraundorfer - Litigation

DDI (07) 927 2750 | david.fraundorfer@hobec.co.nz

Catherine Andrew - Relationship Property, Family Law DDI 07 927 2755 | catherine.andrew@hobec.co.nz

Tim Neill - Property & Commercial

DDI (07) 571 3834 | tim.neill@hobec.co.nz

Ben Eagleson - Commercial

DDI (07) 928 0195 | ben.eagleson@hobec.co.nz

Rotorua 1108 Pukaki Street T 07 349 4400

Whakatane 97 The Strand T 07 308 8325

Opotiki 125 St John Street T 07 315 6058 WAVE21773

Tauranga 525 Cameron Road T 07 578 2199

26

The Weekend Sun

The best way to go nutty this Christmas As it’s called the silly season, we often find ourselves going nuts with a mix of stress and endless rushing around getting things done before the big day.

Italy with a strong coffee any time of the year. It will keep well and looks great wrapped in some cellophane as a small home-made gift.

The fact you can actually make something so yummy will impress even those fair-weather, fussy friends who think you’re a talentless waste of space.

You a can choose any mix of nuts and add in any type of dried, candied fruit to personalise your panforte. The recipe is all most fail safe.

Chocolate Panforte

Makes 1 large 16-22 portions Ingredients 1 Tbsp cocoa powder 1 ½ cups flour 3 cups mixed nuts – cashews, macadamia, Brazil nuts, almonds and hazelnuts – roughly chopped and oven-roasted 1 cup dried, candied fruits – figs, peaches, mangos, papaya etc – chopped 2 tsp ginger 1 pinch nutmeg 1 tsp mixed spice 130gdark chocolate, broken into small pieces 1 heaped cup caster sugar 1 cup honey

Toss in the chocolate pieces also.

Slowly bring sugar and honey to a boil and simmer until a soft ball is formed when a little is dropped in cold water.

Add honey mix to the bowl and stir well until all ingredients are amalgamated, then pat into the cake tin with milk-dipped hands – careful as this will be very hot!

Bake in the middle of the oven for about 35 minutes and allow to cool before slicing into small wedges. A little goes a long way.

Method Preheat oven to 160 degrees Celsius, then line a 22 cm cake tin with greaseproof paper, then grease and dust with cocoa powder.

Sift flour, cocoa and spices together and add dried fruits and chopped nuts.

Festive fun fused with gourmet food There may be food stalls and a boutique farmers’ market at tonight’s Gourmet Night Market’s Christmas market – but entertainment is the event’s key ingredient.

Ph 0508 KIWIFRESH (0508 549 437)

wares in a market environment.

But Kim says entertainment is a big draw-card for this event, with performances from the Inspire Children’s Choir, Mount Maunganui College band Joe’s Van, Aaron and Alicesea – and a carols by candlelight performance by Tauranga Civic Choir.

The Mauao Performing Arts Centre is teaming up with the musical acts to create what Kim says will be a unique experience never seen before in the Mount.

“We wanted to involve a range of local musicians and musical groups and have a fun Christmas celebration.

“People are encouraged to come along with their families and friends – and bring blankets and rugs for when the sun goes down.”

The alcohol-free event is at Coronation Park from 5pm-9.30pm tonight.

Entry is free.

The Gourmet Night Market in on Fridays from December-February from 5pm-9pm.

For more information, see www.gourmetnightmarket.co.nz

Two Tauranga choirs and two live bands will entertain the public as they explore about 60 stalls at the Gourmet Night Market’s – A Community Christmas – at Coronation Park from 5pm-9.30pm.

Market manager Kim Renshaw says tonight’s special Christmas-flavoured market will bring the community together to share in the festive spirit.

“After the success of the Earth Hour off-the-grid market in March, we wanted to create another special candlelit atmosphere.”

The market will include street food stalls, dessert and drink stalls and a boutique farmers’ market.

There’ll also be a special Kid’s Market operating for part of the evening, so children can have a taste of selling their

55

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27

The Weekend Sun

Baking and bonding the holidays away School holidays are the ideal time to bond with your children with an afternoon of baking – or keep to your child and their friends busy.

Last holidays my wee lass and her friend where kept busy with

this project making cupcake shoes.

These may look complex but they’re very easy to make.

I just showed the girls once and they were away and had a ball making the cupcake shoes.

It’s also a great idea for tea parties, birthdays or just because.

Here’s a wee secret for all you girls: Even the boys liked them!

Cupcake shoes

Ingredients 1 pkt sponge fingers 2 cups icing sugar

200g butter 2 Tbsp water Food colouring of your choice Piping bag Wafer sticks Method Makes 12 cupcakes Mix butter, icing sugar and water until combined and creamy-looking.

Divide the butter icing into separate dishes. In each dish, mix in a food colouring of your choice.

Using a piping bag make a design on top of each cupcake.

Cut a small hole in each cupcake on top, to allow the sponge finger to be placed inside to give the design some structure.

Decorate the sponge fingers

Health warning for shellfish collection A health warning is still in place for a section of the Bay of Plenty coastline, with six people suffering toxic shellfish poisoning during a 24 hour period this month.

The public the health warning issued on November 28, 2014, advising against collection of shellfish from Mount Maunganui and along the Bay of Plenty coast to Whakatane Heads in the Eastern Bay of Plenty is still current, says Medical Officer of Health Dr Jim Miller.

The warning includes all islands and estuaries along this part of the coastline.

“I’ve had reports that people have been continuing to eat shellfish and have felt unwell after doing so. The toxins can make people very ill and I strongly advise not collecting or consuming shellfish from any part of the affected area,” says Jim. Jim says this week’s cases are the first reported since the Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning outbreak in the Bay of Plenty in late 2012.

“The PSP toxin levels in shellfish from this area are rising and I urge people to heed the warning and make sure that their visitors and friends are aware.”

The health warning applies to all bi-valve shellfish including mussels, pipi, tuatua, cockles, oysters, scallops as well as cat’s eyes, snails and kina (sea urchin).

Shellfish in the affected area should not be taken or eaten. Shellfish containing the toxin don’t look or taste any different from shellfish that are safe to eat.

Cooking or freezing the shellfish does not remove the toxin. Paua, crayfish and crabs can still be taken but as always, the gut should be removed before consuming.

Consumption of shellfish affected by the PSP toxin can cause numbness and tingling around the mouth, face, hands and feet; difficulty swallowing or breathing; dizziness; double vision; and in severe cases, paralysis and respiratory failure.

Symptoms can start as soon as one-two hours after eating toxic shellfish and usually within 12 hours.

Anyone suffering illness after eating shellfish should seek urgent medical attention.

Residents’ last chance for market’s Christmas produce Tauranga Farmers’ Market is offering city residents one last chance to stock up on fresh produce and goodies ahead of Christmas – on Tuesday, Decem-

ber 23 from 5pm-7pm.

The pre-Christmas Twilight market will be at the usual location – Tauranga Primary School – offering the chance to buy the

freshest of fruits and vegetables, artisan food and flowers direct from the producers. All markets after this return to the normal Saturday mornings from 7.45am-12 noon.

with remaining icing and place in the cupcake.

Then use the wafer sticks as the

heel for the shoe.

Place a little icing on the wafer to allow it to stick to the sponge finger.

28

The Weekend Sun

No challenge too big for little Emily When faced with the massive task of raising $100,000 for lifesaving treatment, you can either lie down and give up – or stand tall and fight.

Emily Palairet has chosen the latter.

The 12-year-old Tauranga girl has a very rare connective tissue disorder so uncommon she could be the only one in

the world with the condition.

Her mother Jo Amrein-Palairet says while there’s plenty for Emily to be sad about her daughter just smiles and gets down to business.

“She’s very acceptant of her situation and while she’s got some tough challenges ahead overall she does really, really well.”

Emily has a 110 degree curve in her spine and while surgery would be the

Taylor Burley

Kleiman

Dollar Warriors, which usual option, in Emily’s encourages people to register case her heart would not be as ‘warriors’ and donate $1 or strong enough to survive the more to various causes. operation.

The warriors’ support has But the family has discovhelped raised $40,591 for ered a course of treatment Emily’s treatment, says Jo. which could be of huge “We are so grateful of One benefit to Emily.

Dollar Warrior, they have been The Schroth Method is a so amazing. Our family also non-surgical intervention are hugely thankful to everythat involves an intensive one who’s made a donation.” course of physiotherapy, While the future is looking a says Jo. An x-ray of Emily little brighter for Emily, she’s “So Emily will do intense Palairet’s spine. not out of the woods yet. stretching and physiotherapy But with a little help from the comthree to four hours a day for a very long munity there’s no reason why she can’t time.” reach for the stars – and touch them.

They’re hoping to start treatment this To make a donation to Emily Palairet’s month but are short of their goal by Emily Palairet needs Givealittle fundraising page visit www. roughly $59,000. to raise $100,000 for a givealittle.co.nz/cause/myspineneedshelp Jo says they “feel very lucky” Emily life-saving treatment.

By David Tauranga is being championed by website One

Seeking health care professionals achieved in their lives won’t Health care is one of the help them in the course, fastest growing sectors in the but it absolutely will. If you world and Bay of Plenty Polare practical, organised and ytechnic offers an 18-week caring you will do well in certificate which gives people health care.” the skills and confidence to Graduates of the 18-week step into the wide range of course can care for people roles on offer. in a resthome or home care The next Tauranga and situation, or can continue Thames courses start in with their studies for careers February and are ideal for in midwifery, occupational anyone who loves helping people and wants to work in Health care professionals are in high demand. therapy, nursing, physiotherapy, or social sciences. the health care sector, or for “There’s a mixture of ages, ethnicities and genders on those already in the industry who want to upskill. the course. You get the life experience in the mature Topics include the human body, professional students and the computer skills in the younger ones – practice, community wellness, dementia and the New they help each other out and it works brilliantly,” says Zealand health system. This is combined with 40 Jo. hours of first-hand experience within a healthcare setEnrolments for the 2015 Certificate in Health Care ting as an employee or volunteer.

“I often hear students underrate their own life experi- courses are now open. For more information visit www.boppoly.ac.nz or phone 0800 BOP POLY. ence,” says tutor Jo Kemp. “They think what they’ve

Snipping up a festive win for barber client The team at Strandz End Barber wish to congratulate Tony Cranston, who is the lucky winner of the Christmas draw.

Werner Gamma and Keith Harding also want to say a big thanks to all of their clients for the continued support.

“We wish everyone a very safe and happy Christmas.”

Werner Gamma, winner Tony Cranston and Keith Harding.

29

The Weekend Sun

Family recruiting support to help Team James He’s cheeky, mischievous, strong-willed and sometimes stubborn. He’s also a very special young man.

Like any other five-year-old boy, Papamoa’s James Reid loves anything with speed, watching DVDs and playing on his iPad. “He loves music, loves going on rides that are fast,” says mum Sonja. “He loves going to the beach, loves the waves. He goes horse riding with disabled.

“His horse’s name is Honey and it’s just awesome to see him up there on the horse.”

But James isn’t the typical able-bodied boy. He suffers from spastic quadriplegia cerebral palsy, epilepsy and hydrocephalus – or water on the brain.

It means James is unable to crawl, or stand without support – and can only take assisted steps with great difficulty.

Fighting back the tears, Sonja says her little boy has had a rough start to life.

He spent the first day of his life being airlifted from Tauranga Hospital to Waikato Hospital, where he stayed fighting for his life in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for the next few days.

It’s been “bloody tough and chal-

lenging,” according to Sonja and Don, whose baby underwent brain surgery at just eight weeks old. But they’ll do anything for their son.

“He’s very unique,” says Sonja.

“We’re doing as much as we can for him so he can grow into an awesome young man and be as independent as possible.”

Someone else who loves James dearly is his two-year-old sister Lily, who’s helped her big brother learn how to interact with other children.

“It’s quite cute actually,” says Sonja. “She’s very caring and quite

nurturing of him.”

Unfortunately, Sonja and Don can’t prove James’ case is an ACC injury, meaning other than the standard care all other therapy costs have to be privately funded by the family.

Wanting the best care for their son, James’ parents are exploring therapies and surgeries in the United States and Europe to help with his high spasticity – options o n l y available outside of NZ. It could cost the family about $150,000, which they’re

seeking the community’s help in raising.

Don’s also swimming 12.3km from Motiti Island to Maketu on January 31

Lily, 23 months, James, 5, Don and Sonja Reid. Photo by Tracy Hardy.

Natural cholesterol management A clinical trial into tangerine and red palm extract was an important study into natural support for cardiovascular health.

The study ‘Citrus Flavonoids and Tocotrienols for Hypercholesterolemia’ (Rosa, 2007) identifies the benefits of a combination of these extracts.

This was a high quality, double-blind placebo-controlled trial with the objective of seeing if these compounds had any effect on cholesterol and other heart risk factors.

The study involved 120 people otherwise healthy people with high cholesterol. They were divided into two groups. Group one was given a tangerine flavone extract combined with the palm fruit extract Tocomin; the other group a placebo, a sugar pill.

After 12 weeks all groups were given a blood test.

The results show on average, those receiving the active ingredients reduced total cholesterol by 27 per cent. This was reflected in a reduction of potentially dangerous LDL cholesterol by 25 per cent with a small increase of beneficial HDL cholesterol of four per cent. Triglycerides are the transported fat from excess calories and can lead to heart disease; these

reduced by 31 per cent.

Many people have been prescribed cholesterol-lowering medications called statins. These are very effective at reducing cholesterol as they inhibit the liver enzyme needed to create cholesterol. However, this same enzyme is needed for critically important co enzyme Q10.

By reducing CoQ10, statins can cause many side effects such as fatigue and muscle pain. I recommend most people on statins take CoQ10 as CoQsol but please call me to see if this is right for you.

There is a large group of people who cannot tolerate statins and another group who’d prefer to use nondrug solutions to improve heart health. The tangerine extract/palm tocotrienol extract mentioned in the above trial is now available.

Give me a call if you need more information. This column is now fortnightly. Join my full weekly newsletter at www.abundant.co.nz John Arts is a qualified nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health. Contact John on 0800 423 559 or email john@abundant.co.nz. To read more go to www.sunlive.co.nz

Abundant Health

to help raise more funds. To donate, visit www.givealittle.co.nz/cause/

By Zoe Hunter TeamJames

30

The Weekend Sun

The greatest gift to all It is that busy time of the year when people start decorating the Christmas tree, send out Christmas cards, watch the Santa Parade, plan special meals and buy presents.

It seems to be a stressful time for many, having to spend a lot more money they sometimes cannot afford.

Let’s face it, there is a great amount of excitement, especially among the

children. There’s nothing wrong with having a bit of fun with Santa and receiving presents at this time.

We can be caught up in all this excitement and forget all about the real reason for the season. We need to remember Jesus was born in Bethlehem to save us from our sins and that we celebrate His birth at Christmas time. He was the greatest gift to all of mankind, absolutely free.

Kitty Naude, Pyes Pa.

Bowlers dishing out too many lollies It would seem there are three basic skills required of cricket bowlers; line, length and pace.

When I was a lad we heard of bowlers practising by placing a sixpenny bit at the batting end of the pitch and seeing how often they could hit it.

Daniel Vettori can drop on a length and maintain it for long periods.

Now, in the days of professional players with big

salaries, we have bowlers who, in bowling too short, don’t seem to have the awareness or skill to alter their length and continue to dish ‘lollies’ for the whole match with dire results for their teams.

It’s as if they have immutable mind-sets. What are their coaches doing? The recent ‘one-dayer’ against Pakistan being a classic example.

B Johnson, Omokoroa.

Now, would you vote differently? Season’s greetings Less than three months since the 2014 General Election, and it’s official the rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer.

I wonder if those working in aged care, health care, those affected by the Fonterra’s payout forecast, those in the Far North who use our beautiful beaches and those who value truth would cast their vote differently?

Merry Christmas New Zealand.

D Cunliffe, Ohauiti.

The Weekend Sun wishes all letter writers and reads a very Merry Christmas! And don’t worry, you can still send in your letters during the festive break. Email: letters@thesun.co.nz

THE NEW SEA-DOO

Misled on milk prices We are so often misled by the barons of Fonterra when they claim “We have to charge New Zealanders the same prices for dairy products that we are paid by our foreign buyers”.

Well now, not wanting to attack farmers who are going to suffer with the lowered payout, one wonders how long we will have to wait

for the punishing retail prices of dairy products in NZ to drop 40 per cent.

Everyone who travels overseas, especially to England, is fully aware the English do not pay the prices we pay here and that’s a fact.

Further, they don’t have such a heavy freight bill when distributing around NZ. A Bourne, Bethlehem.

Home market’s rip-off?

The world price of oil has dropped dramatically and this is reflected in the prices we pay at the petrol stations.

Perhaps not all the reduction is passed on, but better than nothing.

The world price of dairy products has dropped by approximately 50 per cent since the beginning of the year. This is not reflected in the prices we pay at the supermarkets.

Note: Some supermarkets sell petroleum products that reflects the drop in world prices.

We are told we have the most efficient dairy industry in the world, yet we pay more than most Western countries for dairy products.

Is the dairy industry more efficient at producing dairy product or in ripping off a captive home market?

P Dolden, Papamoa.

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31

The Weekend Sun

your

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

DISTRICT

From all the team at Council.

Wishing you a very happy and safe festive season, and hoping you will make the most of our beautiful District this summer.

UPDATE

COUNCIL SERVICES OPEN FOR HOLIDAY CONVENIENCE

ISSUE 117 • 19 DECEMBER 2014

2014 Winner

Council’s libraries and service centres and recycling facilities will be open during the summer holidays.

Opening hours for Te Puke, Omokoroa, Katikati, Waihi Beach and Barkes Corner, Cameron Road (Tauranga) can be viewed on Council’s website.

A special holiday membership for visitors is available at our libraries on the payment of a refundable bond – and there is a great collection of adult and children fiction and non-fiction to choose from.

Green Ribbon Awards Whatungaro te Tangata Toitu te Whenua

USE WATER WISELY!

LIMITED EDITION

POSTERS ON SALE AT COUNCIL

For details on all opening hours of all Council’s offices, libraries and service centres please view our website:

LIBRARIES AND SERVICE CENTRES

WWW.WESTERNBAY.GOVT.NZ For enquiries, phone Council on 571 8008.

EACH

RUBBISH COLLECTION

With the warmer weather fast approaching it’s a good time to think about ways to use water wisely.

Recycling and greenwaste centres at Te Puke, Katikati, Athenree and Omokoroa greenwaste drop off have various opening hours. All centres are closed on Christmas and New Years Days.

Detailed collection information can be found on our website:

Some water saving ideas that can easily be used every day are: - Repair leaking taps - Turn off the tap when you brush your teeth - Don’t wash dishes under a running tap - Consider installing a water efficient shower head - Wait for a full load before using your washing machine - Conserve water in your garden and pot plants by using mulch

HURRY! WHILE STOCKS LAST

WWW.WESTERNBAY.GOVT.NZ Kerbside collections over Christmas and the New Year period are as per usual except for Te Puke whose rubbish will be collected on Saturdays: 27 December 2014 and January 03 2015.

WHAT WATER WE SAVE TODAY, WE CAN USE TOMORROW.

POOR ACCESS HAMPERS FIRE FIGHTING ON RURAL PROPERTIES Easy access to rural properties in the Western Bay is critical in the event of a fire in buildings or vegetation.

Entranceways to properties and access to water supplies should be a minimum width of four metres with a four-metre height clearance.

When reporting an emergency, rural property owners must quote their RAPID number and ensure that the number is displayed prominently on the letterbox.

Western Bay Moana Rural Fire Authority is happy to provide advice on safe burning practices and can be contacted by calling Council on 571 8008.

HIGH WINDS RAISE RISKS FOR OUTDOOR FIRES High winds in recent weeks have caused several fires in the Western Bay to flare out of control, prompting a warning from the Western Bay Moana Rural Fire Authority.

Principal Rural Fire Officer Alan Pearce urges people to think twice about lighting any fire in the outdoors until the late spring westerly winds abate.

The strong winds have arisen in the late mornings and through the afternoon, catching people unaware. “Lighting open air fires is prohibited in wind conditions greater than 10 kilometres an hour and they must be attended to at all times by the person responsible for conducting the burn. “If the fire gets out of control the fire service is to be contacted

2

Tauranga

Come out and play!

Te Puke 36 2

29 33

immediately via the 111 system,’’ says Mr Pearce.

An approved fire permit is compulsory for anyone intending to burn outdoors and the costs of fighting out-of-control fires can fall on the person responsible for lighting the fire.

Whakatane

5

30

Rotorua

2

WANT MORE INFORMATION? If you’d like more information about the TECT All Terrain Park: PHONE: 07 571 8008

APPLYING FOR A FIRE PERMIT Permits are free and can be obtained by contacting Council on 571 8008 or online through Council’s website:

www.westernbay.govt.nz Permits can be approved in two working days.

EMAIL: tectpark@westernbay.govt.nz OR VISIT: www.tectallterrainpark.co.nz

LIKE us for regular updates:

TECT All Terrain Park

PLEASE REMEMBER IF YOU HAVE A PROBLEM, QUERY, COMPLAINT OR COMPLIMENT ABOUT ANYTHING TO DO WITH COUNCIL AND ITS SERVICE, PLEASE CONTACT OUR CUSTOMER SERVICES TEAM

CALL 07 571 8008

EMAIL: CUSTOMERSERVICE@WESTERNBAY.GOVT.NZ TE KAUNIHERA A ROHE MAI I NGA KURI-A-WHAREI KI OTAMARAKAU KI TE URU

IF YOU’D LIKE TO CONTACT YOUR LOCAL COUNCILLORS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT

WWW.WESTERNBAY.GOVT.NZ

PROUD TO SUPPORT OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS

IF YOU’D LIKE TO RECEIVE UPDATES VIA EMAIL PLEASE SEND YOUR DETAILS TO

DISTRICTUPDATES@WESTERNBAY.GOVT.NZ

WWW.AVALON.ORG.NZ

PEOPLE • PLAN • PROGRESS

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WBOPDC117DEVCICH.CO.NZ

WWW.WESTERNBAY.GOVT.NZ

32

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.

Saturday 20 December

A Night Before Christmas The iconic

Bethlehem free festive event at Mills Reef Winery. The main event is 7.30-9.40pm with a spectacular fireworks finale. Entertainment, food & beverage vendors open from 5.30pm.

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 Family Speedway Christmas Meeting/Sprint Car Bay Champs. www. bayparkspeedway.co.nz Car Boot Sale Greerton School 7am start. Cost $5 per single site or $10 for double site. Weather permitting. Something for every-one. Shirley 577 1116 or 0274 146 040 Katikati Mural Tours Every Sat & Sun departs 11am from the Katikati Info Centre, 36 Main Rd, Katikati. $10pp. For group bookings ph 549 5250 Messianic Weekly Meetings The Way meet in the Kingfisher Room, Arataki Community Centre, Zambuk Way, Mt Maunganui 10am. 542 1438 Steve’s Vision Photography - Pop Up Gallery Open 12-6pm every day until Dec 21 at Bethlehem Shopping Centre opp Columbus Coffee. Up to 50% off all existing stock - come & grab a bargain! Steve Bolt 021 128 6781 or www.stevebolt.co.nz Tai Chi Qingong Every Sat in Memorial Park between mini golf & playground 10am. Free. All welcome.

Te Puke Scottish Soc Christmas dance with extra special Christmas items at Te Puke Memorial Hall, Jellicoe St. Entry from 7pm. Good company, live band, quality supper. Entrance $7. Organised by Te Puke Scottish Soc. Valerie 573 7093 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 21 December

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

Bethlehem Paper Plus Santa’s Day Free Christmas cake,

sweets, in-store specials, face painting & more. Plus special guests, local chef Peter Blakeway, Capt Claw & Queen Elsa from 10am.

Maketu Rotary Club Market 3rd & 5th Sunday at Village Green, Park Rd, Maketu. Stalls $10. Maureen 533 2340

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.

Mount Mainstreet Farmers Market

Tuesday 23 December

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 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 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 Friendship & Social Club

Weekend activities for over 60’s. Walks, dinners, day trips & good times. Richard 578 3894 Tauranga Night Market Bayfair Every Sunday in the Bayfair, cnr Maunganui & Girven Rds undercover carpark 5.30-11pm. All weather, fully undercover. Fresh produce, gifts, fashionware, antiques, live music & more.

Te Puke Country Music Club Club day at St Pats Hall 1pm. All welcome.

Monday 22 December

Citizens Advice Bureau Free, confiden-

tial 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, 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 hours: Christmas Eve 9am – 12pm. Stat days closed. Dec 29-31 9am – 4pm. No appointment necessary.

Omanu Bowling Club Twilight bowls every Mon 6-8pm.

Flat shoes essential.

Tauranga Civic Choir Every Mon at Wesley Church, 13th Ave, Tauranga 7.30pm. New members welcome.

Heather 575 9092 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

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 Altrusa Club of Tauranga Women’s community service group. Dinner & business meeting 2nd Tues. Social programme 4th Tues monthly. Interested? Denise 570 3134 Kids Christmas Fun Anglican Hall 10am - 3pm. Lots of Christmas crafts & baking. Mini concert presented at end of day.

Gaye 577 1753 or 027 274 8753.

A Christina Productions Event.

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

Pre Christmas Twilight Market

Tauranga Farmers Market cnr Arundel St & 5th Ave, Tauranga 5-7pm. A chance for you to stock up on fresh fruits, veges, artisan food & flowers direct from the producers. All markets after this as normal on Sat 7.45am – 12pm.

Welcome Bay Lions Support your local community along with lots of fun. Meet 2nd Tues at Greenwood Park Village 6.30pm. Jim 544 1248

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 25 December

Christmas Day Family Eucharist St George’s Anglican Church, 1 Church St, Gate pa 9-10am. Christmas Day family service including readings about the Christmas story, carols & activities for the children. Free admission.

Christmas Day Service St Peter’s Victoria Rd, Mt Maunganui 8am.

575 9945 Christmas Day Service St Mary’s, Bayfair 10am. 575 9945 Christmas Day Service At Salvation Army cnr Cameron Rd & 5th Ave 9.30am. 578 4264 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 Merry Christmas From the team at Sun Media.

Friday 26 December Wednesday 24 December Chess Tauranga Every Fri at Tauranga Carols by Candlelight At Salvation

Army cnr Cameron Rd & 5th Ave 9pm. Come & worship as a family & experience the true meaning of Christmas.

Carols on the Lawn At Wesley Methodist Church, 100 13th Ave 8.15pm, candles provided. Inside if wet. Bring a blanket or something low to sit on.

Christmas Eve Children’s Service St George’s Anglican Church, 1 Church St, Gate Pa 7-7.30pm. A short service aimed at children to help them learn what Christmas is really about. The service will include carols & activities to involve everyone who comes. A great way to start your Christmas. Admission: Free.

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 Midnight Christmas Service St Peters, Victoria Rd, Mt Maunganui 11.30pm.

575 9945 Midnight Mass & Carols St George’s Anglican Church, 1 Church St, Gate Pa 11pm – 1am. Carols at 11pm & then a celebration of Christmas with the ‘Midnight Communion Service” at 11.30pm.

Admission: Free.

New Year’s Sequence Dancing Dec 31 at Greerton Hall 8pm - midnight. Live music. Men $7, ladies a plate please.

RSA, Greerton 6pm & 7pm onwards for the whole family. Werner 548 1111 http://www.westernbopchess.weebly. com/ Mt Summer Carnival Enjoy the fun of the fair with great favourites like the Dodgem Cars, Hurricane, hotdogs, candyfloss, carnival games & more. Held Dec 26 - Jan 4 daily 1pm & 7.30pm (weather dependent).

Saturday 27 December

Alcoholics Anonymous Women’s meet-

ing at St Andrews, Dee St 10-11am.

Children welcome.

Gypsy Fair Original At Bowentown Domain, Waihi Beach Dec 27 30 9am - 5pm. Wooden crafts, tarot reading, face painting, food & more.

Katikati Mural Tours Every Sat & Sun departs 11am from the Katikati Info Centre, 36 Main Rd, Katikati. $10pp. For group bookings ph 549 5250 Messianic Weekly Meetings The Way meet in the Kingfisher Room, Arataki Community Centre, Zambuk Way, Mt Maunganui 10am. 542 1438 Tai Chi Qingong Every Sat in Memorial Park between mini golf & playground 10am. Free. All welcome.

GUIDE The Weekend Sun’s guide to who’s playing and where.

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 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 28 December

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 Rifle Range Public Open Day Open to public on last Sun of the month. Range at end of Ngawaro Rd, at the TECT All Terrain Park 9am - 3pm. Some targets available to purchase, or bring your own.

Must bring own ammo, shooting rests, ear muffs etc. Fire-arms license must be presented at registration area. $15pp (cash only). No cellphone coverage. www.deerstalkersbop.org.nz

Tauranga Friendship & Social Club

Weekend activities for over 60’s. Walks, dinners, day trips & good times. Richard 578 3894 Tauranga Night Market Bayfair Every Sunday in the Bayfair, cnr Maunganui & Girven Rds undercover carpark 5.30-11pm.

All weather, fully undercover.

Fresh produce, gifts, fashionware, antiques, live music & more.

“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.

33

The Weekend Sun M U S I C

P L U S

By Winston Watusi

More great Kiwi music Last column before Christmas.

No stress then...

Actually it does seem to be getting a bit frantic out there. Lotsa folk running in ever-decreasing circles.

If you’re one of them let me just assure you that, yes, the traditional pre-Christmas cocktail recipe is at the end of this column. I suggest you skip the inbetween stuff and start mixing right away.

Otherwise we’re looking at albums this week. Two Kiwi albums.

They’ve got a bit of a connection with Tauranga and they greatly impressed me. If you give CDs for Christmas then it might not be too late to track these down. Easiest is to find the band online and order one. There’s still time.

Boycotting Spotify

On the other hand, if CDs are now just part of your abandoned past and you only want something new to listen to, on Spotify then you may well find them there – I don’t know as I’m still boycotting the service until it actually starts paying musicians rather than just lining its own pockets and those of the remaining record corporations.

OK. The albums.

First up, recent visitors The Andrew London Trio. They played here a couple of months back, touring to support their new CD, ‘Ladies a Plate’, which is sorta a debut album, and sorta not...I say that because The Andrew London Trio used to be Hot Club Sandwich. That group, though actually a duo, usually played as the trio – acoustic guitar, bass, plus (most usually) a sax and/or clarinet. To become The Andrew London Trio they have changed bass player, a slot now filled

by Andrew’s wife Kirsten London, who also contributes a couple of very sweet vocals.

Humorous songs

The problem for the band is that Andrew has painted himself into something of a corner by specialising in humorous songs about white middle class New Zealand. Just how long can you mine that very specific vein without repetition?

Quite a while it would seem, as the songs here are amongst his sharpest and funniest. ‘I Think I'll But A Yacht’, ‘Three Little Words’ and, particularly the superb ode to confused Kiwi masculinity ‘I Hugged My Mate’ merit many repeats as do the Facebook Song ‘Like Me, Like Me’ and the timeless lament ‘Country’s Buggered’.

The band swings delightfully and the playing is immaculate, with sprightly sax from Nils Olsen and immaculate harmonies throughout. Sterling stuff!

Mudcats return

The other album is blues and it’s from Aucklanders The Flaming Mudcats, who return to town shortly to play at The Marchwood Blues Picnic.

Their second outing is called ‘Mistress’ and in terms of straight ahead no-frills blues it’s as good a set as I know from this country.

The band are a four-piece and seem like the perfect package: frontman Craig Bracken used to play with The Darcy Perry Band and is both a commanding singer and outstanding harmonica player; guitarist Doug Bygrave is endlessly inventive and plays like no one else in New Zealand; bass player Sean McCarthy writes great blues songs; and drummer Ian Thompson has a history stretching back to The Underdogs Blues Band. Together they’ve made a faultless, nononsense album of tight modern blues.

Mount RSA Friday 19 – Mark Taupiri 7.30pm.

Saturday 20 – Back Porch 7.30pm.

Sunday 21 – Helen Riley 4.30pm.

The Crown and Badger Friday 19 – Shabang.

Saturday 20 – Shabang.

The Matua Sunday 21 – The Blarney Boys 3-6pm.

Welcome Bay Bar Friday 19 – Xmas Factor Karaoke Competition – Grand Final from 8pm.

Featuring special guest “Howie Morrison Jr” Saturday 20 – Live music with “Chubby Renata” from 6-9pm.

Mean ‘n’ lean

It reminds me in a way of the legendary Fabulous Thunderbirds, not so much musically but in the mean ‘n’ lean approach – great 12-bar grooves, great soloing and some very cool colouring from the occasion horn section and various pianists.

This is absolutely my favourite blues album of the year – don't miss these guys next time they're in town.

And the drink for this year? In keeping with the way the world of cocktails is getting ever more sophisticated we’re going way beyond the usual Pina Colada or eggnog this time. Courtesy of Wellington chef Martin Bosley we have The Shalimar.

One measure Amaretto; two measures gin; three measures apple juice; and one measure of lime juice (freshly squeezed). Stir them all together with ice, strain out the ice, and then serve garnished with a couple of finely sliced mint leaves. You won’t regret it!

Good luck with the next few days until Christmas.

Try not to stress out. Remember, even if the food and presents are rubbish it’s friends and family that really matter. See you on the other side... presents are rubbish it's friends and family that really matter.

See you on the other side...

as ire ylinder SERVICES

34

The Weekend Sun

Local music under the summer sun

If you love live local music then head down to Coronation Park on December 27 for the Mauao Performing Arts Centre’s Summer Series Concert.

Don’t worry if you’ve got a case of the summertime blues because the Mauao Performing Arts Centre has got the medicine you need.

The centre’s Summer Series is back and taking place at Coronation Park in Mount Maunganui on Saturday, December 27, from 4pm to 8pm.

It will feature great music from acoustic duo Aves, musician and jammer Jimbob, guitarists and vocalists JD’z, and National Rockquest runners up Joe’s Van.

Now into its third year, and held on the last Saturday of every month during summer, the series exposes the many talented local artists living in the Bay of Plenty.

Spokesman Jay Munro says the centre puts on the show and production free of charge for the greater good of the community.

“We encourage all locals to come along and support some of the great creative talent the Bay of Plenty has on offer.

“Good tunes under the summer sun is the aim, lending to a laid-back vibe, which is great for the family.”

The December 27 event will promise to be a great afternoon and early evening of music, laughs, fun – and hopefully plenty of summer sun, so make sure you don’t miss out.

The Mauao Performing Arts Centre’s Summer Series Concert featuring Aves, Jimbob, JD’z and Joe’s Van is at Coronation Park, Mount Maunganui, on Saturday, December 27, from 4pm to 8pm.

For more info visit the Mauao Performing Arts Centre’s website at: www.mauaopac.co.nz By David Tauranga

Drink responsibly and drive safe this silly season Be a responsible drinker – that’s the message the new drinking regulations are trying to get out there. It’s not a ‘stop drinking’ message.

By being responsible for how, when and what you drink, you’re still going to be able to have a great time in your favourite venues as one or two extra drinks could lead to the confiscation of your driver licence.

And if you don’t drink responsibly then drive perhaps you could lose your job or your family or even the maximum offence of taking someone’s life.

No-one or no venue is responsible for your final decision to drink and drive, except you.

Personal responsibility is the key message to being a responsible drinker – so look at alternative beverage choices during celebrations.

Across 6. Previous All Black coach (6,5) 7. Trudge (4) 8. Logical (8) 9. Racecourse (NI) (6) 10. In the distance (6) 12. Picturesque (6) 15. Apprehended (6) 17. Town (NI) (8) 19. Den (4) 20. Shrub (11) Down 1. Sharpshooter (8) 2. Zodiac sign (6) 3. Talkative (6) 4. Unfasten (4) 5. Rotate (6)

No. 1402

6. Circumference (5) 11. Indistinct (8) 13. Bad-tempered (6) 14 Bovines (6) 15. Not far away (6) 16. River (Fiordland) (5) 18. Speck (4) C C S G E S Y A E A S A F

C A R R O T E S L O O P E

N N U O D R L C M C L C T

S T A G G E R D S C O P E

E E E E D S O S I A E H E

D R O O L S W I N D O O R

T B L C G F O X G G I T E

B U R E A U T T R E M O R

I R M A X L O E T I I G O

H Y M N S J C E N T U R Y

Solution 1401

A K A K A K A N I I O A T

S S T A G E T T A K A P U

H M A M E M O H K I K H R

For the beer drinker, there’s the DB Export Citrus; a sweet lemony citrus two per cent alcohol beer.

Or the DB Export Citrus with grapefruit; a dry, easyto-drink style beer with two per cent alcohol, or even Amstel Light at 2.5 per cent.

All are available in 330ml bottles and we even have the Amstel Light on tap here at The Phoenix.

The wine drinkers now have a better range of low alcohol percentage of between 8.5 and nine per cent – yet retain all the flavour and charm of bottled wine.

Mocktails are beautiful creations, limited only by the bartender’s passion and imagination, that look and smell like cocktails yet have no alcohol at all.

Venues and staff have the responsibility of providing a safe and enjoyable environment as per The Sale of Liquor Act, yet the customer is the responsible drinker.

So be responsible, drink responsibly, have a great time and get home safely.

The Weekend Sun has a $50 The Phoenix voucher to give away to a lucky reader who can name the two Export beers recommended.

Enter online at www.sunlive.co.nz under the competitions section. Entries must be received before Monday, December 22.

The Weekend Sun

35

‘A Night Before Christmas’ on tomorrow night

BETHLEHEM BAPTIST CHURCH PRESENTS

Hailey Reece, 8, and singers John Darke and Erinia McNeilly, 15, will be performing at ‘A Night Before Christmas’ tomorrow night. Photo by Tracy Hardy.

It’s only 24 hours until the stage lights up at Mills Reef winery for ‘A Night before Christmas’ to unfold in front of thousands of people, bringing a variety of festive entertainment with it.

Bay of Plenty residents are being encouraged to get their picnics, candles, rugs, chairs and families ready nice and early to head along to the night of music, art and entertainment.

“The show will feature a variety of performers with many different genres of music offering something for everyone,” says event manager Luisa Schroder.

“So pack your picnics early and make your way to Mills Reef for ‘A Night Before Christmas’.

“The stage is set and performers are ready – including 16-year-old Erina McNeilly, who has had the chance to develop her talent during the last four years she’s been part of this event.”

Erina will perform alongside entertainers such as John Darke, Georgia Lines, Ben Mollison, Venice Harris, the Urban Dance Crew and a host of performers young and old with a surprise guest ‘Chalk Artist’ coming from Auckland.

The Mills Reef gates will open at 5.30pm, with food and beverage vendors open and pre-entertainment on offer in the picturesque grounds, which can

hold up to 10,000 people. The biggest production yet – with one 40m2 LED screen, an extra 20m2 screen this year and at least 15 items of entertainment – the main event is from 7.30pm-9.40pm ending with a spectacular fireworks finale.

Sponsored by Bethlehem Baptist Church, Luisa says the night aims to present the tradition and nostalgia of Christmas in a vibrant and relevant way.

“It’s set to be unique night of entertainment reflecting the Spirit of Christmas – and by virtue of it being in a town called Bethlehem, the programme reflects that.”

This popular family event is free to attend and will not permit BYO alcohol.

And in keeping with the spirit of giving, a collection will be taken for the Waipuna Hospice.

“After months of planning and rehearsal – and with thanks to enormous community funding and support, the teams from Bethlehem Baptist Church and Mills Reef are ready to welcome thousands to their free annual Christmas event,” says Luisa.

The event at Mills Reef winery on December 20 opens 5.30pm, with the main event on from 7.30pm-9.40pm.

For all details, including parking options and wet weather details, visit www.anightbeforechristmas. co.nz or phone 07 576 2344.

By Merle Foster

Mills Reef Winery Saturday 20th December

5.30pm Food for sale & Entertainment

7:30pm Show & Fireworks FREE ENTRY - COLLECTION FOR WAIPUNA HOSPICE

Enjoy carols, entertainment & fireworks under the stars amongst family and friends. (NO BYO ALCOHOL) Supported By

Key Sponsors

For all details including parking and the Mills Reef “Dinner & Show Package” go to

WWW.ANIGHTBEFORECHRISTMAS.CO.NZ

36

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public notices

HON SIMON BRIDGES

MP FOR TAURANGA

TODD MULLER

MP FOR BAY OF PLENTY We wish you a Merry Christmas. Our office will be closed for the Christmas break at noon Wednesday 24 December 2014 and reopen on Monday 12 January 2015.

Simon Bridges MP | P: 07 579 9016 | E: taurangamp@parliament.govt.nz Todd Muller MP | P: 07 578 0175 | E: Todd.MullerMP@parliament.govt.nz Authorised by Hon Simon Bridges and Todd Muller MP, 184 Devonport Road, Tauranga 3110

www.national.org.nz

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arts & crafts GUITAR LESSONS Give the gift of music for Christmas with top value guitar lessons. www.guitarlessonsintauranga.co.nz Ph 027 677 1119 MERRY MERRY CHRISTMAS to all our students and clients.

Thank you for another fun filled year. Our very best wishes for a safe and happy holidays to you all. We are closed Dec 25 - 5 Jan inclusive. Urgent enquiries to 021 834 982 Lynn & Steve Leadlight Expressions & Clay Art Studio, Historic Village 571 3726

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NATURAL NEW ZEALAND Health Products & Clinic.

Something for everyone. NZ Registered Natural Therapies & Natural Medicine Practitioners.

Opposite BP Te Puke. Ph 573 5533 www.naturaltherapiesnz.com and www.kiwikitz.com

health & wellbeing RELATIONSHIP THERAPIST Betina Anderson now open for appointments. Betina is a mature woman with many years experience. Ph 027 479 1206 Email: care@flowerbank.co.nz Your first session free.

housesitters

PROFESSIONAL HOUSE MINDER available. Do you want peace of mind that your treasured home is in trustworthy hands while you are away on holiday? Excellent references.

Available from the 3rd January.

Ph Cathie 022 162 8301

join a club

WIN $500 CASH MONTHLY! Join Te Puna Hunting & Fishing club for only $10 per adult and enter our monthly competition Prime Explosives 500, you could win $500 Cash every month. Check out www.tepunahuntfishclubco.nz or check out our facebook page to keep up to date www.facebook. com/tepunahuntfishclub

livestock AC PETFOODS collect injured & unwanted cows & horses.

Ph 0800 369 6269

lost & found SPCA - Found Kittens various colours from various locations.

Found Maungatapu Area, DSH Calico Tortishell Female Cat Ref# 20890. Found Maungatapu Area, DSH Grey/White Tabby, Female Cat Ref# 20896. Found Maungatapu Area, DSH Grey/ White Tabby Female Cat Ref# 20901. Found Gate Pa Area, DSH Tabby Male Cat Ref# 20905.

Found Bethlehem Area, Black Collie x Puppy Male Ref# 20906.

Found Katikati Area, DMH Grey/ White Female Cat Ref# 20911.

Found Merivale Area, Young Rabbit White Male Ref# 20912.

Found Gate Pa Area, Staffy X Tan/White Female Ref# 20915.

Found Maungatapu Area, DMH Grey Torti Female Cat, Ref# 20916. Found Welcome Bay Area, DLH Black Female Cat, Ref# 20924. Found Te Puke Area, 2x Collie Cross Puppies Black/ White Male and Female. Found Gate Pa Area, DSH Ginger Cat Ref# 20928. Found Gate Pa Area, DSH Ginger Cat Ref# 20929.

Found Judea Area, DSH Tabby

lost & found

cont.

Short Tail Ref# 20930. Found Te Puke Area, DSH Tabby Cat Ref# 20936. If you have lost an animal please contact the SPCA on 07 578 0245

mobility MOBILITY SCOOTERS wheelchairs, walkers & more.

Visit our showroom 29 Burrows St, Tauranga. Ph 578 1213 MES ‘Supporting your independence’

plants for sale FUCHSIAS from $12! Buy direct from grower. Limelight plants, 629 Pyes Pa Road.

Open Sat/Sun 1-5pm.

real estate FOR SALE 1 Bedroom Flat in Pillans Point area. Been totally renovated etc. Price $250,000.

Ph 576 8193 leave details on answerphone message.

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 18+ years ELECTRICIAN, experience, NZ registered.

Residential & commercial, maintenance & service, new builds, renovations. Fast, friendly service. Ph Andrew 022 354 1960 FUTURA PROPERTY SERVICES Building 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

trades & services

cont.

newsletter for our door to door tours. Merry Christmas. Ph The Hinterland Tours Team on 07 575 8118

PAINTERS AVAILABLE for immediate start. Interior/exterior.

Guaranteed workmanship. For free quotes, Ph Graeme today 022 0466 776 or 07 544 5234

BRING A FRIEND and enjoy a days outing to The Rock Shop and Jade Factory - 14th Jan, Ph Zealandier Tours 575 6425

PLASTERER Interior 30+ years.

Skimming walls make good walls & ceilings. Fibrous, Plasterboard, Cornice, Cove, no job to small.

Contact Stan 021 130 2621 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

TREE SHRUB and hedges trimming, topping removal, rubbish removal, palm pruning or removal, satisfaction guaranteed free quote. Ph Steve Hockly 571 5958 or 027 498 1857

transport DRIVING MISS DAISY relief for busy families. Let us take care of the transportation of your parents/children to appointments, outings, afterschool groups.

Safe, friendly, reliable service.

Ph Jackie from Driving Miss Daisy 552 6614

5 DAY TRIP of a life time!

Molesworth Station Tour - Ph Zealandier Tours today for more info 575 6425

NO.8 TOURS TRAVEL CLUB We’d like to wish a very merry Christmas to all and if you are looking for the perfect gift we have travel vouchers available.

Up and coming tours; Sunny Nelson Stayput - 24th-28th Jan. Tiritirimatangi Island Cruise & Tour - 11th-13th Feb. East Cape Summer Escape - 21st-24th Feb. Great Barrier – (2nd trip) 11th -13th March - Hamner Springs, Molesworth & Rainbow Stations 17th-21st March. Tasmania - 21st March 13days away.

Specialists in fully escorted day & extended tours. Free pick-up, free newsletter, free to join, call now.

Ph 579 3981

venues FOR WEDDINGS, FUNCTIONS OR MEETINGS check out No.1 The Strand, a beautiful historic setting. Ph Tony 07 928 3676 or email tony@thesun.co.nz

venues

wanted

cont.

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

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

cars wanted

Buyers of Damaged, Unloved & Unwanted Vehicles

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

0800 382 828 lost

WEDDINGS, PARTIES, MEETINGS etc. With stunning Harbour views, fully licensed bar & kitchen onsite. Restaurant

firewood

travel & tours “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

wanted

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

travel & tours

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 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

health & beauty

health & beauty business opportunity New Year

New

Opportunity Looking for a clean start in 2015? You can afford to be your own boss.

Our quick start training programme gets you earning fast.

Cleantastic offers full and part time business packages with finance available (conditions apply).

Recession Proof Industry A Guaranteed Work Supply Guarantee is subject to the terms and conditions of the Franchisee Agreement

Commercial Cleaning Franchise

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR A FREE INFORMATION PACK

www.cleantastic.co.nz

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www. www.

.org.nz .org.nz

The Weekend Sun

Christmas time - making it special

Isn’t it hard to believe Christmas is upon us? Some people groan when they think of Christmas.

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

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

10am, Sunday 21st December, 345 Maunganui Rd www.shorelinechurch.org.nz | info@shoreline.org.nz | 022 043 2334

The busyness, the extra cost, the extra demands and pressure. And yes, this is all true.

But I confess, I enjoy Christmas, I really like the time we take in the church to celebrate the coming of Jesus.

The special service at midnight on Christmas Eve is always a highlight.

The still of the night, the candles and the carols all give it a divine sense of mystery.

If you’re reading this and haven’t been to a Christmas Eve service, how about considering making it a priority?

After all the rush to get ready for Christmas, the next day I find it so soul refreshing to pause, be still

and worship the Lord.

Giving thanks for the coming of Jesus. I warmly recommend this service to you.

Christmas Day is really for the family; and what a delight to see the children and grandchildren excited about their presents.

Christmas at its best is a time of giving, a time of celebration and a time of rejoicing in God’s Love in His generous gift of Jesus.

The Angel said to the shepherds: “I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people”. Christmas is meant to be a good news time.

Please don’t let the extra demands destroy it for you.

Remember what is important.

It’s not expensive gifts, or overindulging in food or alcohol. It’s Jesus. Its family and friends and generosity of spirit. Merry Christmas.

By Rev Jim Wallace, St Enoch’s Presbyterian Church

Exploring what’s in a word

By Rev Ian Pittendreigh, Bethlehem Community Church

There’s a simple proverb you may well be familiar with is: ‘Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me’.

If you’re anything like me you’ll believe this to be absolute rubbish!

Words often have an adjective attached to them to describe the impact they have made, such as – ‘those were powerful words’ or ‘encouraging words’.

There are also negative adjectives that can be used too.

We know words do have an effect on us and others, spoken or

written. They almost seem to have personality attached to them that can motivate or discourage, build up or tear down. At Christmas there’s a bible passage in John Chapter 1 we turn to that says: “The Word became human (New iving Translation)”.

We learn that this Word is more than a personality, and more than adjectives are needed to describe this Word’s reality.

This Word is in fact a person: “So the word became human and lived here on earth among us (New

Living Translation)”.

Why did the Word do this? Well the answer lies in the answer to the question: What’s in a word?

The word this time is his name, Jesus, which means Saviour; and we are invited to believe in him because “to all who believed in him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God (New Living Translation)”.

Now in this age of claiming ‘rights’ this is one to claim absolutely and unreservedly. The most wonderful gift to receive this Christmas.

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The Weekend Sun

Twisty tales for muscular dystrophy Tauranga authors Jan Goldie and Lee Murray’s Christmas tales have been printed alongside popular New Zealand authors in a book raising funds for muscular dystrophy.

December A Special Family Service featuring the Classic Carols, with Readings and Items, 21st 9:30am Mainly Music Songs and Sunday School Items.

Theme: The Four gifts of the Wise Men! December Christmas Eve Celebration Come to this Midnight Service filled with Wonder and 24th 11:30pm Nostalgia. Theme: Taking a Risk on Love.

December Christmas Day. A short Family Service 25th 9:30am Celebrating the Birth of Jesus Theme: The Greatest Gift of All

The pair’s tales are included in the 31 crazy festive fictions, written by NZ authors including Joy Cowley and David Hill, which feature in ‘The Best of Twisty Christmas Tales’.

Sales from the book will go to The Muscular Dystrophy Association of New Zealand.

Stories in the collection include tales of cat burglars, fairies, clones in Santa’s workshop, a haunted house, Christmas monsters, dragons, and even Santa Claus in jail.

Jan and Lee are thrilled to have stories in the anthology and to be supporting such a worthy cause.

“It’s an awesome collection of cool Kiwi Christmas stories with great authors and it’s fantastic that the book stores in Tauranga are helping us support such a great cause,” says Jan. “The stories are perfect for reading to children seven years or older and make a great stocking stuffer.”

Lee feels the same way.

“It’s great to support MDA with something we love,” says Lee, who describes the tales as fun, quality stories for Kiwi children.

Disabled surfing

Tauranga author Jan Goldie (far right) pictured with the Muscular Dystrophy Association, who’ll benefit from her Christmas-themed book.

‘The Best of Twisty Christmas Tales’ retails at $22 and is available at Books A Plenty, Tauranga, Paper Plus

Bethlehem, Paper Plus Papamoa, McLeods Booksellers, Rotorua, and Paper Plus Opotiki.

The first Flight Centre Foundation Halberg Surf Programme at Mount Main Beach for physically disabled last Saturday was a gnarly event.

Road to Bethlehem

Lester Phelps surfing at Shark Alley.

Zach Coley, 12, and volunteer Terri Warner, 12, getting ready to go surfing.

The Seventh Day Adventist Church – with supporting churches across the city – staged its interactive tour in a real-life re-telling of the Christmas story at the weekend, called the Road to Bethlehem.

44

obile

The Weekend Sun

udio

MARU ST

HOLKING ST

HEWLETTS RD  to Bridge

evelopment

to Mount 