The Weekend Sun - 26 November 2021 by Sun Media

26 November 2021, Issue 1087

Growing greatness In a corner of Oropi School, large garden beds filled with silverbeet, beans and seedlings are tended by students. In the converted container kitchen, other children are cooking up scones with fresh lemon curd.

These activities are part of the school’s Garden to Table programme, where kids learn how to grow food then turn it into tasty meals. To celebrate four years of the programme at the school, they have created

The Kōkako Kitchen cookbook - a collection of recipes tasted and created by students during their weekly Garden to Table sessions. Swayze Townley, 7, pictured, spent her morning learning gardening

and harvesting skills. During The Weekend Sun’s visit, veggie dumplings and scones were on offer and we can attest to their deliciousness! Read the full story on page 4. Photo: John Borren.

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The Weekend Sun is published every Friday, delivered throughout the Western Bay of Plenty with 70,000 copies circulated from Waihi Beach, through Katikati, Tauranga, Mount Maunganui, Papamoa and Te Puke and available to collect at many stand locations throughout the area. NEWSPAPER For a full list of stand locations see https://theweekendsun.co.nz/stand-locations Produced by Sun Media Ltd, an independent andAudited locally owned company based at Circulation 1 The Strand, Tauranga. ABC Audited Circulation 31/03/2021. 31/09/2019

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Turning the lights on There’s a book called Mothership which has quite a good sub-plot in it.

need to indicate left just prior to exiting the roundabout. There were some sceptics at the time who suggested the Labour government was only making the rule change to It is set in a huge ark ship 14,000km Weekend Sun Combined Circulation BOP Times force people to indicate left, even if they longThe which is transporting the remnants circulation 69,062 circulation of NZME 10,162 were a right turning person. of humanity across space in search of a However, it makes sense and in all new planet to call home. other respects, the rules are no different After 1000 years of this, things have to any otherAdvertiser intersection. Give way Combined BOP Times, Katikati altered somewhat – the crew have to traffic on your become ruthless and Te Puke Times circulation is right and indicate p: 07a 578 0030ruling class called which way you plan to the Technocrats, and less than HALF with only 32,138 in total. e: ads@thesun.co.nz turn before entering all the commoners the roundabout. If have long since been you are going straight convinced that they though the roundabout, are not on a spaceship you don’t indicate at all. when you approach It is a huge agrarian the roundabout, but society floating everyone indicates left blissfully through prior to their exit. space, but what they So many people get are all unaware of is this wrong that it that they are being doesn’t pay to take any slowly attacked by notice of which way aliens, until the lights they are indicating. go out. Some people even The reason they indicate they are turning are being slowly left before they enter the and imperceptibly roundabout, regardless attacked is that the of which way they are aliens are a much going. The logic behind slower species – they that, presumably, is live a lot longer that they are going than humans, but around the left side of everything takes them the roundabout, rather a lot longer to do. It’s than opting to drive the a slow-motion attack. wrong way around the It’s a lot like New roundabout. Zealand politics really, except the opposition is slowly gnawing itself to death at the same time. Two-second rule And traffic lights are no different, And instead of the lights going out, especially in Tauranga. they are about to come on. Green means you don’t have to worry about anything, orange means speed up Red light district and red is okay, in the same way as it’s The new ‘traffic light’ alert system is cool to eat a garlic prawn if it’s been on more than a little bit disturbing, mainly because Kiwis have never been very good the ground for less than two seconds. All over the country business owners with intersection rules. are pondering the implications of the For example, in 2004 the roundabout traffic lights system and what it means rules were altered slightly to include the

to deny someone access because of their vaccination status. Astoundingly, the government left it until this week to rush through the required legislation to make this system legal. Taking away basic human rights is a big deal, so a few weeks to debate the details might have been a good idea.

Keep it mellow

Like a trip down Hewletts Road, no region is expected to start on a green light, but it is yet to be revealed which regions will start on red and who starts on orange. Not very helpful for the organisers of large events. For people who have been vaccinated and have got their vaccine certificate, the only thing that will harsh your mellow is the restrictions on large events at a red setting. Those large events can go ahead at green and orange settings, but only those with vaccine certificates can attend. In all other respects, the vaccinated can go about life as they did before Covid-19, albeit with some rules around wearing masks. About 10 per cent of the population has decided they don’t want to be vaccinated, and it is now up to many business owners to enforce those rules at the door. The logic is sound – basically Covid19 is a pandemic that mainly affects unvaccinated people. It is a pandemic for those who are not immune to it, and until vaccination rates reach well into the 90s, there is still a large enough group of at-risk people to threaten the health system and everyone who uses it. All I can say is I’m glad I don’t work in hospitality. daniel@thesun.co.nz

IMPORTANT STUFF: All material is copyright and may not be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. Sun Media makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information and accepts no liability for errors or omissions or the subsequent use of information published. Transport Agency data shows that changing a T intersection or a crossroad to a roundabout reduces death and serious injury crashes by 90 per cent. The total number of crashes reduces between 25 to 80 per cent. *Source: NZTA.

The Weekend Sun

Friday 26 November 2021

Lifeguards unfazed by mandate Lifeguards in the Bay of Plenty say they aren’t fazed by having to be vaccinated before patrolling our beaches this summer. Surf Life Saving New Zealand announced the mandated Covid-19 double-vaccine requirements late last week, with all paid and volunteer lifeguards needing to be jabbed by January 1, 2022. But Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service chair Jamie Troughton says his club’s board already incorporated the policy early last month. “It’s a no-brainer as far as we’re concerned,” says Jamie. “We often dwell on the frontline of emergency services, and our first priority is the safety of our volunteers, closely followed by the safety of the public we’re committed to protecting. “The club is expecting a busy season on the beach this summer, once Aucklanders are allowed to travel. “The forecast La Nina weather patterns can also produce more swell on the east coast of New Zealand.” While a handful of club members are wavering on whether to get vaccinated, the vast majority

see it as an inevitable step in the next phase of living with Covid-19. “Our staff and committees have spent a lot of time developing plans so that our lifeguards can continue to patrol and train,” says Jamie. “But it’s a pretty dynamic situation and we’re constantly adapting. “That’s exactly what our roles involve anyway – there are no two days the same on the beach and assessing risks and hazards is a big part of our role of keeping the public safe.” Surf Life Saving New Zealand spokesperson Lwindi Ellis says that if lifeguarding services had to be shut down during the busy summer period, the risks of drowning at patrolled beaches would be high. Ellis says the mandate decision comes in the wake of consultation between the Surf Life Saving NZ medical director and the Ministry of Health, which concluded that lifeguards are covered by the government vaccination mandate for certain roles. She says their own risk assessment also indicates vaccination is a necessary protection measure, and that Health and Safety at Work Act obligations mean they “have a duty of care to both our volunteers and members of the public”.

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Friday 26 November 2021 A selection of local breaking stories featured this week on...

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Couple’s $10.3m win A Tauranga couple has 10 million reasons to celebrate after winning $10.3 million with Powerball First Division last weekend. The couple are regular Lotto players who have been playing the same numbers for a while now – and one of them has a well-established routine for checking their tickets. On Sunday morning, the man sat down to check his ticket on the Lotto NZ App as he usually does, and was completely unaware of just how much their lives were about to change. With the reality of their win beginning to sink in, the lucky couple are looking forward to making the most of their winnings.

Vaccination rates up Vaccination rates in the Bay of Plenty have led the country over the past week, as the days until the Covid-19 traffic light system tick down. The government will set out what restrictions will apply to what areas on Monday, but it is increasingly clear that vaccinations are key to loosening restrictions. Previously one of the country’s laggards, the Bay of Plenty is fast approaching 90 per cent for first doses. Over the past week it led in first dose rates, and was second only to Canterbury in second shots. It should hit 90 per cent first doses in the next week or so.

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Sowing seeds of success Children chatter excitedly as they make dumplings and harvest broad beans from the Oropi School garden. The young gardeners are engrossed in their weekly Garden to Table session, where they learn how to grow produce then prepare it. Oropi School was one of the first schools in the region to introduce the programme four years ago, and they’ve marked their success by creating a vegetarian cookbook. The Kōkako Kitchen is a collection of around 70 seasonal recipes that have all been tried, tested and made by students. Each class got to vote on their favourite recipes, and the most popular made it into the book. Garden to Table supervisor Heron Rickard says the students that first started in the programme are now heading off to college, so it felt like a good time to create the cookbook. “It’s a reflection of our journey over the last four years,” says Heron. The vegetable dumplings are a firm favourite amongst the students, and it is one of the recipes Israel Ottesen loves to make. The eight-year-old says he enjoys preparing and cooking food, and has learnt where to plant things in the garden to help them grow properly. “I like the cookbook because it stores everything we’ve done in the past,” says Israel. “I’m always with my friends when we’re doing Garden to Table, and we just have a blast doing the cooking and making the yummy food.” Willow Exelby has learnt how to bake, sow seeds and how to “pick stuff out of

Andre Hawes, 8, loves the The Kōkako Kitchen cookbook. Photo: John Borren.

the ground without killing them”. Her favourite recipe is veggie schnitzel. Heron says the programme is a wonderful experience for the children because they can be outside, in nature and asking questions. “The most important thing is seeing where their food comes from,” she says. “The real instantaneous wins we see and that parents tell us, is their kids are trying foods that they wouldn’t ordinarily try. “That has mostly to do with the fact that there’s a personal pride in having planted the seed and grown the plant and pulled the weeds out and kept it watered and fertilised.” Children can see very quickly that what they are planting is on the way to

Tauranga water restrictions Tauranga’s new Water Watchers Plan is now in place. The plan replaces traditional outdoor watering restrictions with a year-round plan. Sprinkler use will be banned completely from December 1, however other methods of outdoor watering, such as handheld hoses with a trigger nozzle, are permitted all year round at certain times of the day. The new plan is in response to three dry summers in a row which have taken their toll on groundwater levels in our region.

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Listen out for sirens Western Bay of Plenty’s Neighbourhood Support will be leading the emergency services food drive around the streets of Pāpāmoa on November 30, with sirens blaring and lights flashing. And one week later, the entourage will be cruising around the streets of Mount Maunganui on December 7, collecting nonperishable food donations from letterboxes. Neighbourhood Support manager Bruce Banks says they’ll have 10 teams and more than 100 volunteers running the streets, accompanied by police, fire and ambulance vehicles with lights and sirens blazing. This year the collection is contactless, with households leaving donations at letterboxes to be collected by runners.

becoming food for them, says Heron. Garden to Table does more than teach gardening and cooking skills, with maths, science and English all incorporated into the sessions, she says. “The other cool thing is that teachers use it as a springboard for learning in the classroom.” Heron, like the students, has her favourite recipes from the cookbook - the lentil bolognese and flatbread. All money raised from cookbook sales will go back into the Garden to Table programme, with the goal of upgrading the greenhouse and adding irrigation. To order your copy of The Kōkako Kitchen, visit: www.oropi.school.nz

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Friday 26 November 2021

Boxing up kindness this Christmas It will be a Christmas filled with kindness and joy for many of Tauranga’s homeless this year, when ‘Santa Carrus’ - in the form of Te Tuinga Whānau staff - personally delivers boxes of goodies. Currently living in emergency housing administered by Te Tuinga Whānau, 100 families will be opening their doors one Friday evening in December to the sight of Santa’s sleigh on wheels. “It’s always all about the kids,” says Te Tuinga Whānau imagination officer Tommy Wilson. “We have a big tow truck, and we’re looking at having a sleigh with a piano on the back when we go and sprinkle joy to those families. Santa Carrus will be helping us.” Since 1987, Te Tuinga Whānau has been strengthening families, supporting at-risk youth and responding to community need. For the past five years, Te Tuinga Whānau have hosted a large Christmas party for all the families they care for. At the annual Te Tuinga Whānau Carrus Christmas party in 2016, 100 bikes and helmets were given away to the kids, thanks to community contributions to fundraising. In 2017, Paul Adams and his friends helped give away

150 parcels, including ukuleles. The Christmas party in 2019 was held at the camping ground next to the Mount Hot Pools, with Pato Alvarez of Pato Entertainment dressed as Hana Kōkō. In 2020, the village green at Tauranga Historic Village was bursting with families enjoying bouncy castles, a bubble machine and a sausage sizzle, with guest celebrities Elmo and Poppy dropping in. This year, with Covid restrictions around gatherings and parties, Te Tuinga Whānau have got their imagination hats on. They’ve come up with something different in the form of Santa Carrus Christmas Kindness Boxes, and they’d love the community to help fill them. “Good Buzz have provided 100 bottles, and Comvita have provided some honey,” says Tommy. “We’ve also reached out to Priority One and Holland Beckett, and we’re leaving it open to anyone to give anything to the frontline of homelessness. “People can donate soap, chocolate, toothpaste, food items - anything that helps us take joy to the homeless. What we’re doing is making sure it gets to actual homeless families and kids.” To help spread joy to the homeless, the public are invited to drop off items to Te Tuinga Whānau, 190 Chadwick Road, Greerton, or call: 07 571 0875.

Dora Boca from Te Tuinga Whānau with one of the kindness boxes. Photo: John Borren.

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Looking for a popping good home Precious Popcorn is looking for his forever home. This sweet little bun is still a little shy, but is beginning to settle in really well and enjoys his gentle pats. He will need a loving family who will be able to work with him through his shyness, with heaps of treats and time! Rabbits prefer to live in pairs; do you have a female bunny looking for a devoted ‘husbun’, or do you intend to bond one later on? If you would like more information, please give the Tauranga centre a call on: 07 578 0245, quoting reference number: 525968. Richard Scott 027 499 9668

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Parking petition hits parliament Tauranga resident Claire Dale is calling on the community to help support her petition to parliament to make mobility parking enforceable. “In my view, mobility parking spaces make life substantially easier for disabled people and misuse of mobility parking is rampant,” says Claire. “I believe we need national enforcement, larger fines and legislation that covers both public parking and private-land parking.” Private-land parking includes supermarkets, blocks of flats, schools and shopping malls. Claire says that public parking is currently only covered by by-laws, and that the 24 per cent of Kiwis who have a disability need support with making mobility parking enforceable. “The shop owners, the mall owners and the supermarkets are not the bad guys,” she says. “As usual it is the government, and they’ve got broader shoulders. “Instead of shopping centre owners saying: ‘please remove your car from my shopping centre’, now it can be the law nationally.”

Claire Dale. Photo: John Borren.

Claire managed to launch her petition an hourand-a-half before the August lockdown began, but found that the timing meant that people were unaware of it. “That is why the word hasn’t been heard as well as other voices. I have done everything I can think of to contact people. I wrote to news media, CCS Disability Action and a press release went out.” She also enlisted the help of students from Otūmoetai College. “I called the college and asked if they had a couple of students who could help with the webpage and the technical side of things, as I’m technologically handicapped.” She’s delighted with the support received from the students as well as help from Grey Power. “I believe fines must be enforced equally across New Zealand. Help uphold the rights of the 150,000 mobility parking permit holders.” So far 1427 have signed the petition, which closes on February 14, 2022. To support Claire’s petition, visit: www.parliament.nz/en/pb/petitions and search ‘disability parking’ in the keyword filter. Rosalie Liddle Crawford

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Policing under the spotlight Tauranga MP Simon Bridges says he is committed to ensuring the city gets a beefed up specialist gang unit, more police resources and greater mental health capacity following the release of the 2020/21 Police Annual Report. “Our growing city deserves nothing less,” says Bridges. National Party Spokesperson for Police, Simeon Brown, says the report “paints a clear picture that the government is failing to take the safety of New Zealanders seriously, with many of the key law and order trends all going in the wrong direction”. “Increasing violent crime, increased sophistication of gangs, mental health demand pressures, increased family violence and a shortage of frontline police officers paints a bleak outlook on the state of law and order in New Zealand,” says Brown. Labour List MP Jan Tinetti says police will not tolerate illegal behaviour by gangs and organised criminal networks. “We have put a record number of police on the frontline with a specific focus on organised crime,” says Tinetti. She says six new constables from the most recent police training wing were deployed to the Bay of Plenty region in late October. Labour List MP Angie Warren-Clark says the number of FTE police officers in the Bay of Plenty

district has increased by 116 since October 2017. “That’s a more than 17 per cent increase on top of what the previous government left us,” says Warren-Clark. But Brown says police are also taking longer to respond to emergency callouts - a point Bridges agrees with. “While these issues are New Zealand-wide, it is clear they are even more of a crisis in the Bay of Plenty given we have more gang members than anywhere else and yet no significant increase in police numbers,” he says. “I’m told regularly of serious incidents where police are called but don’t turn up. “They’re simply too stretched resources-wise, and sadly this soft on crime government doesn’t seem to care.” Warren-Clark says police need to prioritise calls, so the most urgent calls where there is a real risk to safety - are attended first. “I believe that every New Zealander should feel safe in their community, and I know that when there is an immediate risk to life or property, our police will respond,” she says. National also says police are failing to attend around half of all mental health-related callouts. “Mental health incidents are playing into this picture in a big way,” says Bridges, “but despite a lot of talk, the mental health capacity in Tauranga hasn’t yet gone up by a single bed under Labour.”

Driving the vaccination incentive

Christmas Vax in the Park will provide the ultimate early present, with those receiving their first and second vaccinations entered into a draw to win a car. “A car is the present every young person wants,” says Blue Light CEO Rod Bell. “Blue Light is passionate about keeping our tamariki and rangatahi healthy and safe in our communities, so we are making it as attractive and easy as possible for them to have their first dose before Christmas.” The car draw will stay open until January 6, 2022, so those vaccinated at Christmas Vax in the Park, who have their second vaccination before this date, can gain a second entry. There will be drive-through and walk-in vaccinations available from local District Health Board staff, who will be administering the site. Every person vaccinated at the event will also receive a $25 grocery voucher and an additional entry into a draw for one of two Christmas hampers, valued at $500 and $250. Christmas Vax in the Park runs from 1-7pm at Tauranga Racecourse on Saturday, December 4.

Friday 26 November 2021

Blue Light CEO Rod Bell and driving programme manager Ken Harema, with Kayla Murphy in the car Blue Light is giving away.

Santa will be there giving away spot prizes, and there’s also a barbecue and plenty of Christmasthemed entertainment. No bookings are required unless you need transport to the event – you can book your ride by phoning: 0800 VAX PARK (0800 829 7275) or by texting: 022 502 1184.

Hon Jan Tinetti Labour List MP

For appointments and assistance please phone: 07 571 2492 jan.tinetti@parliament.govt.nz @jantinetti

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Friday 26 November 2021

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Rozanne’s fight after vaccine anguish Three months ago, 50-year-old Rozanne de Wild was a highly functioning business woman, running admin, marketing and accounts for her friend’s business while also organising a major annual event.

Rozanne de Wild back at work. Photo: John Borren.

But after receiving her first Pfizer shot on August 27 at a pop-up clinic, she began experiencing side effects almost immediately. She describes them as “head pains, acute hypersensitivity to low and high frequency sounds, vision issues, brain fog, and loss of mental clarity”. She also struggled to put words together and found it difficult to concentrate. “I had severe pain in three distinct locations in the right side of my head,” she says. “My head felt so fragile.” On days six and seven after receiving the first dose, she was on the floor of her lounge unable to function. “I had nausea, violent vomiting, hallucinations, and felt like I was going in and out of consciousness.” On making a call to the Covid Healthline, she was advised

to go hospital. “I was checked three times for signs of stroke, blood clots and bleeding on the brain. “I was then discharged with advice from the doctor to not get the second vaccine.” Despite being prepared to have her second shot and going with husband Paul, who received his on October 9, the clinic refused to administer it due to her on-going reaction to the first. The following weeks were filled with relapses, brain fog, extreme head pain, fatigue and an uncontrollable body twitch. Barely able to function, there was more bad news. Because she hasn’t received her second vaccination, under the new traffic light system she’ll be officially categorised as ‘unvaccinated’. “Without that second vaccine lodged against my name in the Ministry of Health database, I

am considered ‘un-vaxed’ and therefore lumped in with anyone who has made their choice for whatever reason.” She’s called on the government to acknowledge her and others who are suffering extreme side effects, and are not allowed to receive a second vaccine. Rozanne found herself having to make it clear to people that she’s not an ‘anti-vaxer’ but a realist, recognising that Covid-19 vaccines are essential. Three months on, she is starting to find she is improving. “I took myself off social media,” she says. “I was living and breathing Facebook and getting angry at all the division and the lack of compassion.” The enjoyment of life is returning as she allows her body and mind to heal. “It’s been 12 long weeks, but I’m healing.” Rosalie Liddle Crawford

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The Weekend Sun

Friday 26 November 2021

A dog with Soul

Simon Bridges and his Youth MP Ben Cosford.

Fresh faces for Youth Parliament As a Youth MP, Ben Cosford will not only get to spend time in parliament representing Tauranga, he will take part in community events - something he’s really excited about. “It will be awesome to get out in the community and talk to people,” he says. Ben has been named as Simon Bridges’ Youth MP for 2022, and will head to Parliament in July next year and sit in Simon’s chair on the opposition bench. The Tauranga Boys’ College student does economics and accounting, and it’s the political debates in economics that lead him to apply. “When you sit in an economics class you go: ‘man, that National Party, they actually get this stuff’,” says Ben. Simon chimes in laughing, and insists he didn’t pay Ben to say that. It is Ben’s keen interest in business and politics that lead Simon to choose him. Simon had a number of applicants who completed video entries about why they’d make a great Youth MP. “What impressed me is that he seemed very practical,” says Simon. “He showed he has an interest and understanding of politics. “He is obviously thinking economically and about business. Dare I say it, we like that sort of thing in the National Party.” Ben is looking forward to learning more about the inner workings of parliament.

Simon says Youth Parliament is good for democracy. “We want to make sure that young people understand what it’s about in a deeper way. “This is actually about democracy and keeping our democratic traditions going.” Ben says the biggest issue facing New Zealand at the moment is getting the economy going. “We’ve got to get businesses open,” Ben says. “We’ve got to get people back to work. “The economy might be holding up now while they keep throwing money into it, but 12 months down the track, when government subsidies dry out, you’re going to be in real trouble - especially with interest rates rising. “A lot of businesses are taking on a lot of debt.” The 17-year-old says the challenges students face include Covid disruptions to schooling and the future housing market. “Housing is extremely expensive. “People go to university, then they might earn $80,000 in a year, but the house prices have gone up $200,000, so they’ve just gone backwards.” Ben is also a volunteer lifeguard at Mount Maunganui Surf Lifesaving club. Next year will be his last year at college. He then plans to study engineering at university. Although a career in politics isn’t in Ben’s sights yet, it could be in future. “I want to get something else behind me, go out into the world and create some value for the economy and society.” “I think we’ve got future finance minister here,” Alisha Evans adds Simon.

Soul is a three-year-old, grey and white coated, beautiful Blue Staffy. She came to us as a result of unfortunate circumstances, was severely under-weight and suffering from a bad case of mange. But now she has put on some muchneeded weight, her fur has grown back and her personality has spread its wings. Soul is very affectionate and loveable. She is microchipped, house trained and up-to-date with all her shots. Can you give this gorgeous girl a happy, loving home? For more information, visit: www.facebook.com/RRRcanine

Friday 26 November 2021

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Friday 26 November 2021

The changing face of Tauranga’s CBD

At Priority One we often get asked about Tauranga’s CBD and its prospects for the future. Generally these discussions don’t start off on a positive note - it’s no secret that the CBD has struggled in recent years. Many are concerned at the flight of retailers to places like Bayfair and Tauranga Crossing, and certainly Devonport Road has its fair share of vacancies. This is not a unique problem to Tauranga. Worldwide, suburban malls tend to dominate retail business. There are a few factors that haven’t helped in this city too, including an historic lack of civic investment, seismic and geo-technical issues, lack of parking and a fragmented owner base. At Priority One we are fortunate to see the planning for many developments years before they happen. Based on that, I’m very confident for the future of Tauranga’s CBD - it might just look a bit different from what it has in the past.

Confidence in the CBD is underpinned by several major developments that are either underway now or will be in the future. Leading this is the Thirty Eight Elizabeth/Farmers development, which will combine a retail and hospitality offering with city living. There are also several office developments about to commence construction, with a trend for businesses to move back into the city centre. Alongside this are other large developments, like the new and expanded courthouse announced last month. Expect to see further developments near the university as it expands and attracts more students over the next few years. This will require more dedicated buildings and student accommodation blocks, like the one opened earlier this year on Selwyn Street. I also expect to see more developments on the civic front, in part replacing buildings that are no longer fit for purpose but also providing more spaces for people to enjoy the city. Combined, the

value of the developments from all sectors are worth around $1 billion in construction value, with most of this coming from the private sector. More importantly, these developments will collectively bring a lot more people into the city centre; working, studying and living. In catering for the increased amount of people, particularly those living in the CBD, we have a real opportunity to add vibrancy and interest - think making the most of our alleyways, waterfront and views. Rather than developments being

retail-led, I expect retailers to pop up around the changing needs of the city, so expect more boutique or non-mainstream offerings. One type of development that we haven’t seen a lot of yet, but we very much need, is mid-market apartment units. So far, developments have been oriented to the higher end of the market which is understandable, but I would expect that the strong demand for more affordable housing will drive this part of the market, and the CBD is perfect for it.

Friday 26 November 2021

The Weekend Sun

Region’s Covid milestone on track and in sight It’s been a big couple of weeks in the Bay of Plenty, with Delta’s unwelcome and uninvited arrival.

Our communities have responded by checking the locations of interest and going out to get tested if symptoms arise. This is exactly how we need to adapt to Covid-19 as we enter the next chapter of this historical story: minimise and protect.

Let’s keep checking the locations of interest, self-monitoring for symptoms and getting tested if any arise. Please be patient with our testing staff - they are all working diligently. New Zealand enters this next phase with high vaccination rates, a strong economy and fewer hospitalisations and deaths. It wasn’t long ago that getting our country to a 90 per cent vaccination rate almost seemed like a pipe dream. Yet here we are, on track to reach 90 per cent fully vaccinated next month.

Here in the Bay of Plenty, at the time of writing we are currently sitting at 88 per cent for first doses and 78 per cent for second doses. The reality is that 169,679 of us have had both doses! We only need 4238 people to roll up their sleeves for their first dose and have just 25,568 second doses to go. These numbers give you the bigger picture of where we are at as a community, demonstrating unity much more than division. A huge thank you for this collaborative effort! On December 3, the whole

country will move into the new traffic light system, with decisions around which level each region will move into announced this coming Monday. Even at ‘red’ in the new system, schools remain open and businesses using vaccine passes can carry on with some limits – for example gyms can be open with up to 100 people and one-metre social

distancing. Hospitality is much the same, granted people are seated. Events and celebrations like weddings go on, with up to 100 people and one-metre distancing. In preparation for this, download your vaccine pass from: www.mycovidrecord.nz email: help@mycovidrecord. min.health.nz or call: 0800 222 478. We can now look ahead with relative privilege compared to many other countries. What a time to live in New Zealand!

Vaccinations for the good of us all Having been free of Covid-19 for such a long time in Tauranga, it’s disappointing to see community cases spread throughout our city.

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I hope that those who have tested positive make a quick and full recovery in time to enjoy our upcoming summer break. Last weekend I visited Tauranga Racecourse during its mega-testing event, and there was an excellent turnout for what is, let’s be honest, not the most fun thing to do. It’s also heartening to see Bay of Plenty locals respect the health needs of our community by following social distancing recommendations, scanning in at businesses and wearing masks, even when outdoors.

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And I take my hat off to the awesome medical staff who are working long hours at testing stations, medical centres and labs. Thank you to everyone who is vaccinated. I believe that a wider range of vaccines should be offered, and that we should have rapid antigen testing as an option for those who can’t or won’t be vaccinated with Pfizer. But the science is clear - the vaccine greatly reduces the incidence, severity and reach of Covid-19, and I congratulate the community spirit of those who have been vaccinated for the good of us all. Let’s stay vigilant in the lead up to our summer holidays and do everything we can to avoid more lockdowns like the ones we’re seeing in Europe this week.

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Friday 26 November 2021

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Friday 26 November 2021

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New Zealand at a previous Bay Oval fixture against England in 2019. Photo: Daniel Hines.

The Blackcaps have announced their international schedule for 2021/22, and will kick off the season on New Year’s Day in Mount Maunganui. New Zealand men’s cricket team will be at the Bay Oval on two occasions this season, facing off against Bangladesh in a New Year’s Test match and the Netherlands in Twenty20 action in March. Bay Oval general manager Kelvin Jones is honoured to be welcoming the Blackcaps back to New Zealand for their first fixture on home soil since being crowned ICC World Test Champions in June. “That is a bit of a coup for us,” says Kelvin. It will quite literally be a homecoming for some of the New Zealand stars. Captain Kane Williamson and bowlers Trent Boult and Neil Wagner all call the Bay of Plenty home. “I know it seems like a long time since they have played at home, so this will be a nice chance for us to acknowledge that and support the team,” says Kelvin. “What they did was pretty incredible, so it is a double honour for us to have the first

home game after that match.” Kelvin says it is also a timely return to tradition for a New Year’s Day game of cricket, hopefully in the January sunshine. “Traditionally we used to have a Northern Knights game at the Bay Oval, which was always well attended. “So this is almost like a tradition or maybe even the start of a new one.” The spectre of Covid-19, as always, looms large, but Kelvin has his fingers crossed that by January, protocols will be in place that allow for a healthy crowd to be present. With the Women’s Cricket World Cup and the Black Clash charity rugby versus cricket match, which he expects to be the Oval’s most attended event, all coming up, Kelvin is excited for the venue’s future. “Northern Districts are back in action here this week, and we have the Black Clash coming up, which will be a bit of fun,” he says. “It is nice to be hosting these different things. “We have even got a polo game at the end of the season, so we are really becoming a true event venue, which is great because it means more of the community coming to enjoy the Mathew Nash Bay Oval.”

The Weekend Sun

Reaching new heights Tauranga City’s young star Isla Ganley is going up in the world. All Photos: John Borren.

Tauranga City AFC Women enjoyed an unbeaten WaiBOP W-League title-winning campaign last season, scoring 73 goals in 17 games. Now they’ve been rewarded for their hard work on-and-off the pitch with promotion to an expanded NRFL Women’s Premier League for 2022, where they will face the best the Northern Region has to offer. “The players have done brilliantly to win the W-League undefeated, and we have an exciting opportunity in front of us in 2022 and beyond,” says Tauranga City chairman Brendon McHugh. The promotion gives the club’s senior players, such as captain Emma Cawte, the chance to finally play at a higher level. Meanwhile, young talent such as Isla Ganley now have a genuine regional pathway. “It is really great for the senior players to get the opportunity to play at the highest level,” says Tauranga City director of football Barry Gardiner. “Especially for our younger players. Some in the past have had to travel to Hamilton to get that level of football, which means they are travelling a lot which isn’t ideal at a schooling level.” Chairman Brendon agrees. “There’s so much great talent in the Bay of Plenty,” he says. “This shows our junior and youth players what they can achieve in the game without leaving the region.” As Barry alludes to, historically, the Bay of Plenty’s best players have ended up crossing into the Waikato to play at a higher level. “The biggest thing is for our region,” he says. “As a region we want to make sure we are

Friday 26 November 2021

Tauranga City captain Emma Cawte and up-and-comer Isla Ganley will keep their eyes on the prize.

offering equal opportunities for men and for women as well.” WaiBOP Football chief executive Karyn Walters is delighted for the Links Avenuebased club. “It is a great opportunity for the wider Bay of Plenty region to be represented at that level,” says Karyn. “It is great to see more opportunity for our female players across the board.” Barry also makes it clear that success on the pitch is only possible due to some excellent work behind the scenes, including coaching. Barry confirms the club is actively looking to add more coaches to the set-up ahead of the 2022 campaign. “The knock-on is to hopefully inspire more female coaches and people into the women’s game, to get chances to coach at that level as well,” says Barry. The team begin pre-season training in midJanuary and, long-term, Barry has his eyes set on qualification to the New Zealand Women’s National League. “That’s the aspiration,” says Barry. “But the first target is to perform well at that level, because we are playing against some big clubs. “It is a great opportunity for the Bay of Plenty to have representation at that level.” Mathew Nash

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Originally earmarked for sports fields, the land is close to shops, schools and public transport, which makes it ideally placed to provide much-needed homes for Tauranga residents instead. Find out more and tell us what you think at www.tauranga.govt.nz/paraufarms

Friday 26 November 2021

The Weekend Sun

THE BAYVIEW

BUY AN APARTMENT AND ENJOY A LUXURY HOLIDAY.

Your oasis awaits at The Bayview. Brand new, spacious apartments, available now. There’s a hidden oasis located on the sunny slopes of Tauranga, and it’s waiting for you to call it home. As soon as you set foot in The Bayview, you’ll not only be met with breathtaking views of the harbour and Mount Maunganui, but a vibrant and close-knit community too. Since every apartment comes with stylish fittings and open-plan living, there’s nothing you won’t love about your brand new home. Though you will have to leave it at some point because, as a welcome gift, we’re giving away a $5,000 luxury holiday with every apartment sold in October and November*. With so much on offer, there’s been no better time to move to The Bayview. Fixed weekly fee for life - Guaranteed. For residents 70 years and above.

To view our vibrant village, call Trudi on 0800 333 688 today. 159 Waihi Rd, Tauranga. oceaniahealthcare.co.nz *Terms and conditions apply, including eligibility criteria. Limited time offer. Offer only applies to applications for independent living apartments at The Bayview, Tauranga. Holiday vouchers valued at $5000 will be provided for use with a third party service provider. Only one voucher per apartment. Vouchers are non-transferrable and cannot be exchanged for cash. Full terms and conditions available at www.oceaniahealthcare.co.nz/current-offers

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Friday 26 November 2021

Grant makes a difference for community crafters Tauranga Crossing’s Local Legends campaign recently announced its latest grant recipient, who walked away with $5000 to put towards their community initiative. Community Support and Crafting BOP works alongside local charities to support members of the community in need, by identifying then supplying the hand-crafted items they need most. The community group, which has been running for almost four years, has more than 90 crafters who regularly make items to be donated to around 30 local charities. The group has donated more than 6000 items this year alone. Community Support and Crafting BOP founder, Lisa Stirling, says she is

Community Support and Crafting BOP founder Lisa Sterling was awarded a $5000 grant to go towards her work for the community.

very grateful to Tauranga Crossing and everyone who voted for them for the Local Legends Grant. “As a trust, we provide a lot of the materials that are needed,” says Lisa. “Having funding means we can purchase

machine washable, 100 per cent wool for items for small babies, and the appropriate materials for other projects to continue to support our community. “We are excited about being able to continue to grow what we do in the

DHBs seek input from disability community People with a disability, and those that care for them or work in the sector, are being given the chance to shape the future of disability services.

The Bay of Plenty and Lakes District Health Boards want to know what they need to change to make the lives of disabled people better, what is going well and what is currently missing. Input from the survey will lead to practical actions to be included in the Waiariki Disability Action Plan, which will be completed by February 2022. These actions will address removing barriers, providing greater access and Paul Curry. improving the health outcomes for all people with disabilities in the Bay of Plenty, while ensuring equity to health community and the DHBs have services for everyone with disabilities. created the survey that covers Disability support service Momenta, health, access and employment. representatives from the disability “It’s a great opportunity for

people to really share what their experiences are and then have that translated into some real actions,” says Momenta chief executive Tania Wilson. “It’s their voice; they are the ones that experience it, so it’s hugely important that we hear their voices.” Paul Curry, who has years of experience finding solutions to access issues for disabled people, is one of the drivers of this project. “We have enough strategies for the disability community,” says Paul. “Now it’s time for a plan with clear deliverables and milestones, and that is exactly what this is all about.” At present, 27 per cent of people in the Bay of Plenty live with a disability. “As a DHB we need to be disability confident, not only in how we provide healthcare but also in our role as an employer,” says Bay of Plenty DHB CEO Pete Chandler. “Together with their whānau and

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people working in the sector, they know where the problems lie and can help us look for the solutions. We are out to make a real change.” To have your say, visit: www.momenta.org.nz/ actionplan by Wednesday, December 1.

community. Thank you for supporting us with this. “The most rewarding thing has been being able to help people, provide what they need when they need it, and also provide a support network for the crafters. “When I started this I was contacted by a number of crafters who loved making things but didn’t necessarily have anyone left in their families to make things for. “This community group gives them an outlet, but it also gives them a sense of community whilst helping those who need it.” Tauranga Crossing runs the Local Legends campaign every three months, with the next nominations open now. To nominate a local legend, head to: www.taurangacrossing.co.nz/local-legendssubmit-your-nominations/

Simon Bridges MP for Tauranga Upcoming Drop in Clinics Wednesday 1 December, 1 - 2.30pm Electorate Office, 35a Third Avenue Questions/queries call 07 577 0923 Funded by the Parliamentary Service. Authorised by S Bridges, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.

LOCAL LEGENDS $5,000 GRANT Tauranga Crossing is proud to be part of the Bay of Plenty community. Nominations are now open for the next Local Legends $5000 grant. Join us in supporting a local community group to continue doing what they love. Next grant awarded November 2021. Visit www.taurangacrossing.co.nz to nominate your community group or club.

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Friday 26 November 2021

The Weekend Sun

Friday 26 November 2021

What’s Your Property Worth?

Seeing the good

In response to your challenge, Demali Wilson! I retired to Tauranga eight years ago and am still positive about this city I now call home. I love the progress being made downtown; the Hairy Maclary statues, the Bayfair construction - all of it the creativity of locals. I watched with interest when the Welcome Bay underpass came to life. It took three years, however I have a new understanding of engineering and if I had my career to choose

An ode to Mother Earth

Mother Earth is losing her lovely shape, By the greeds and wants of the naked ape. The naked ape gouges the precious minerals out of the ground, At such a rate that soon no more will be found. The naked ape does this mainly for his own needs, Gaining temporary luxury. At the expense of Mother Earth’s abundant larder going to weeds. Ken Jones, Katikati.

again, it would be engineering. Help out in your community, question things - particularly workers onsite as they just love curious minds. Don’t be negative. Every day you wake be thankful, and at the end of the day be thankful for at least one thing. Thank you Tauranga for the wonderful city you are becoming. Good things take time. Sue Reese, Maungatapu (abridged).

Call me for your free, no obligation Market Appraisal No pressure, and it’s good to know the value of your property.

Connecting over java

I’ll keep you updated from time to time as the market changes.

I take up the Demali Wilson ‘challenge’. On Facebook, check out ‘Coffee to Connect’ (CTC) which started last Friday and runs every Friday from 10am-12pm at the Community Centre, Welcome Bay Hall. Don’t feel isolated - connect with others, get out of the house and have a coffee or a tea. Come and join this approachable new group. It is open to anyone to share ideas and support each other in the area. Rupal Mehta, Welcome Bay (abridged).

Phone 0800 RACH 4 U

Rachel Cole

of events Sing while you work Diversity I take up Demali Wilson’s ‘challenge’. Thank you to the staff at Bobby’s Greerton. Not only do you get fantastic fish and chips, but the staff sing for you while preparing your order! I suggest that if you are in the area, call in and see them in action. They are fantastic! Mike Shennen, Greerton.

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Check out the ‘Creative BOP’ website. I commend all of the team on what is happening in Tauranga and the Western Bay area. There’s so many diverse events, workshops and more! Karyl Gunn-Thomas, Hairini.

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Finding balance

We keep hearing of employees having to be vaccinated to be employed, with the government even paying a month’s salary to unvaccinated government staff. I have heard of a few smaller companies in various parts of New Zealand where the staff are

vaccinated but the owners or managers are not. What happens if the staff refused to work? Will they be told to look for another job? Wendy Galloway, Ōmokoroa.

Pre-determined outcome consultation I’ve just tried to fill in the council questionnaire on Parau Farms and City Vibes. Those two questionnaires are designed to produce a predetermined outcome in my opinion. Nowhere is there space allowed for my comments. Like life in New Zealand today, it’s all tick-box stuff. Briefly, Parau Farms was purchased 20 or so years ago to cater for the recreational requirements of the city, demanded by predicted future growth (which happened). Fill Parau Farms up with housing and you double the problem you were solving, don’t you? Parau Farms is that land to the south side of Bethlehem as you drive down to the Wairoa Bridge. As for ‘City Vibes’, what an airy-

fairy load of nonsense. They may as well have asked: “Do you want a Lamborghini?” What answer would you expect? What they needed to ask was: “Do you want to pay for it?” Council’s prime function should be basic infrastructure, like water/ wastewater/roads. Slugging ratepayers for this airyfairy stuff is not the true function of council, but the governmentappointed commissioners that are doing the government’s bidding. I’ll wait with baited breath to see these four government appointees stand at the next election as an affirmation of the direction they have dictated to the rate-paying sector of Tauranga. Bill Faulkner, Tauranga (abridged).

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Friday 26 November 2021

The Weekend Sun

Bay businesses clean up at awards The country’s most dependable firms have been announced at the fifth Annual Most Trusted Business Awards 2021, and Bay of Plenty new home designers and builders Barrett Homes have been named as overall winners.

Pāpāmoa-based Barrett Homes came out on top out of 2456 eligible businesses across the 15 regions of New Zealand that the awards cover. With an impeccable reputation that is trusted by their clients and the public, Barrett Homes

finished ahead of runners-up McClurgs Jewellers. A Napier company steeped in history, McClurgs have been in business since 1914, and specialise in bespoke, customdesigned jewellery. The approved votes and reviews

that decided the 2021 winners can be viewed at: www.mosttrusted.co.nz Some of the local winners at the Most Trusted Business Awards can be found on the following pages, including Matahui School, Burnett Piper, Barrett Homes,

Mike Pero, Creative Kitchens, Solomons Gold, Auctus, MWB Locksmiths, The Thorne Group, Awnings and Covers, Active Testing Solutions, First call Construction, Pacific Stone, Undercover Industries, Oceanside Homes and 3 Design.

Printing success in the Bay of Plenty

Chad with the D600pro and F430s.

3Design Ltd is a company that sells and services a range of 3D printing, scanning equipment and consumables. Established in early 2014, director Chad Vorwerk takes pride in helping many New Zealand business and individuals adopt 3D printing technology. 3Design offers a range of quality 3D brands, with desktop solutions for hobbyists and education through to production of end-use parts. Chad is able to add value with his skills in design for machinery fabrication and years of experience with the equipment 3Design sells and uses. In 2020, Chad welcomed Dr. Jonathan Zyzalo, drawing on his wealth of experience in commercial 3D printing, scanning metrology and application development. Together the pair have 30-plus years of

experience in 3D print technology and materials. With the addition of Jonathan to the team, 3Design now has a presence in the Auckland market where Jonathan is based. The most popular 3D printers that 3Design customers use are the F430 and D600 Pro by Creatbot. With good print bed sizes, these printers are versatile for a variety of applications, such as industrial machine parts, automotive, agri-tech and more. One of the keys to successful reliability of equipment is the fact that 3Design tests and validates equipment received from its suppliers, and ensures customers receive a perfect working printer at installation. It is this combination of experience and service that has seen 3Design pick up the 2021 Most Trusted Business Award for their industry.

The Weekend Sun

Friday 26 November 2021

The Barrett Homes team in 2020.

Barrett Homes are the overall New Zealandwide winners in the 2021 Most Trusted Business Awards. Formed in 2013 by co-owners Mike and Laura Bryant and Grant Eynon, Barrett Homes is now in its eighth year of trading. With more than 800 completed builds, they have a world class system in place for every project from concept to completion, and strive to deliver great outcomes and results. Operating from their head office in Pāpāmoa, Barrett Homes also have satellite locations in Cromwell and Whangārei and are in the process of establishing a Barrett network in Taupō. “Our company continues to grow and we’re currently on a sizeable growth curve, budgeting for 195 house builds in this current financial year

across the nation,” says Laura. They have a wealth of outstanding builds in their portfolio and a well-earned reputation for ‘making things happen’. More choice, better quality and an enjoyable build process are standard fare at Barrett Homes, who create a customer experience that is second to none. An all-inclusive build package means no unexpected surprises and much more value. “Our in-house interior design advice and the unique Barrett Better Build Programme keeps clients updated every step of the way,” says Laura. “In essence, our company is about having a great working culture, good top-down policy deployment and client satisfaction.” Helping people achieve their hopes and dreams and delivering to a high standard and long-term quality is at the core of Barrett Homes.

Excellent design

No franchise fees

Quality materials

Our inhouse designers pay special attention to the details of our homes, honouring that homes are a combination of comfort and functionality.

This allows Barrett Homes to offer higher specifications as standard. We are NZ owned and operated and always will be.

We understand that a home should be built to last. Our materials use the latest innovative technologies to provide a quality that is strong and durable.

You get so much more in a Barrett Home.

Visit a Barrett Homes showhome today.

There is simply no comparison. With Barrett Homes you get more

barretthomes.co.nz l Ph 07 574 9009

choice, better quality and a more enjoyable build process.

Friday 26 November 2021

The Weekend Sun

Helping to keep homes safe Trust is earned when actions meet words. Nothing gets us more excited than navigating the business and investment journey with our clients. Helping reduce roadblocks and create avenues for success and growth. At Auctus, you are our focus. We seek, share, and guide – together.

BAY OF PLENTY

P. 07 281 1588 E. tauranga@auctus.co.nz A. Unit 2, 144 Third Ave, Tauranga 3110 0800 AUCTUS (282 887) | www.auctus.co.nz

Active Testing Solutions is fast becoming New Zealand’s largest and most trusted property testing company, with flagship products in healthy homes standards assessments, meth testing and asbestos testing. “It is with great pride that we accept the award for Most Trusted Business – Property Testing, Bay of Plenty,” says ATS’ Grant Kedian. “We enjoy fostering lasting relationships with our amazing clients, which we find leads to us becoming an extension of their own business. We have seen this apply to both property management companies and private landlord clients. “It is this sense of support and trust that has seen ATS release New Zealand’s most comprehensive Property Assessment Subscription.” The Visual Assessment Maintenance Programme (VAMP) offers landlords and property managers complete peace of mind when it comes to meeting key areas of the Residential Tenancies Act. “In addition to this, we provide landlords with the opportunity to take the wheel when it

Grant Kedian.

comes to maintenance, with an incredibly detailed maintenance assessment completed by one of our own internal qualified builders,” says Grant. The VAMP costs just $249 plus GST annually, and includes an in-depth annual maintenance assessment carried out by one of their qualified builders, a detailed report with maintenance recommendations and an annual assessment of the property against the existing Healthy Homes Standards (HHS) Assessment Report. Also included are unlimited smoke alarm assessments, including free replacement with

top-end $49 smoke alarms, and a $100 discount on all baseline meth testing at the property should the customer elect to have methamphetamine testing conducted. If the property has not previously had an HHS Assessment conducted, the maintenance assessment will be replaced with a standalone HHS Assessment and a standalone Smoke Alarm Assessment in the first year of the subscription. All other services remain unchanged. If you would like to jump on board with ABS’ VAMP programme, call: 0800 005 321.

WWW.ACTIVETES TIN GSOLUTIONS.C O.NZ PH: 0800 005 321

The Weekend Sun

Friday 26 November 2021

Four years at the top for Creative Kitchens & Interiors “We produce kitchens and interiors that give our clients a sense of pride and wellbeing. “It is important to us that the clients understand our traditional manufacturing processes. Everything we make is done by hand, by qualified tradesman. “There’s no CNC machines here, we’re keeping tradition alive, and we’re proud of that approach.

The team at Creative Kitchens and Interiors, Chey (left), Glen, Al, Matt and Sean.

In 1984, two family members decided to set up a small joinery workshop in a shed out the back of a family orchard. Some 37 years later, the team at Creative Kitchens and Interiors have taken home their fourth Most Trusted Award for Joinery Manufactures in the Bay of Plenty, and their first New Zealand-wide Most Trusted. Creative Kitchens and Interiors owner Sean Wood says Most Trusted is basically a sounding board for clients to give pros and cons about working with the team. “Four years ago we were most fortunate to pick up the first Most Trusted Joinery Manufacturer award in the Bay of Plenty,” says Sean. “This year

we’ve just picked it up for the fourth year running, which is incredible. “We’re pretty proud of that, and this year, to pick up the New Zealand Most Trusted Award, is pretty good.” The team at Creative Kitchens and Interiors is a tight-knit one, with only five staff members. Sean credits these awards to the continued efforts of the team. “We’re very close here,” he says. “You kick one of us, we all limp.” The backbone of Creative Kitchens and Interiors is the meticulous skill of their craftsmen, who bring a rich knowledge of cabinetry, building and traditional craft techniques to every project, says Sean.

“Don’t be fooled by the imitations in the market. “If you’re going to make something special, make it right. “When you are going to commission a piece of furniture, a kitchen, vanity or wardrobe, why not have one that is made with precision and with passion by a team of people who care about its clients?”

Friday 26 November 2021

The Weekend Sun

The Thorne Group team.

Thorne Group have won the 2021 Most Trusted Builder for Tauranga (single region) award. Considering the Thorne Group is not a franchise and only operate locally within the Bay of Plenty, this is quite the accolade. “To be honest, as there were so many larger companies that were nominated, we didn’t think we stood a chance!” says Thorne Group director Aaron Thorne. “We are extremely honoured that so many of our clients took the time to write in and vote and

share their experiences. “Thorne Group is a family business, and we strive to work in a way that we hope will make our kids proud of us. This means staying true to our values and doing what is ethically right. “Holding firm to that in all facets of our business has meant we are able to maintain the highest quality standards and ensure an enjoyable client experience.” Staying true to this philosophy also means limiting the number of building projects they undertake, in order to

provide each client with the attention they deserve. “The hardest thing is to stay no to people - particularly if they have had a bad experience in the past,” says Aaron. “But sometimes saying no is necessary, not only to maintain our quality standards but to enable us to deliver on the promises we make. “At all stages, particularly in relation to pricing, we will always be honest and won’t hide things away. Integrity starts from the moment we first meet our client and continues long after they move in.”

Second win for Tauranga embroider

The team at EmbroidMe Tauranga enjoying some minigolf. Lani, Gini, Steve, Mireia, Luna and Patty.

Since 2018, EmbroidMe Tauranga has been helping brands get noticed with customised apparel, and this year they have won their second Most Trusted Award for Uniforms and Promotional Products. EmbroidMe Tauranga supplies and brands garments using embroidery, screen printing, vinyl heat transfer and dye sublimation techniques. They also have a large range of branded promotional products, such as pens and drinkware. Co-owner and director Steve Smith says Most Trusted is a great way of validating their customer service focus and is a real compliment. “For the team it also gives some recognition to them in how they’ve contributed to the award,” says Steve. “We focus strongly on our Google reviews, but Most Trusted Award winners are there based on votes. ‘Best in class’ is very satisfying. Steve says if you can brand it, then they can supply it.

“Our ‘bread and butter’ work is mainly in the corporate, trades and services industries but we will try and accommodate most of anything. “With the name EmbroidMe, embroidery is obviously our main branding technique but more and more jobs involve screen printing or vinyl heat transfer, which we are equally comfortable with.” The team of seven carry out 90 per cent of production on site, which Steve says helps to maintain high quality standards and fast turnarounds. “We work with a wide spectrum of businesses and individuals; from corporates, trades and services to clubs, sports teams and more. “Our whole ethos is focused on the customer and we take service very, very seriously. In just under four years we have accrued more than 120 positive Google reviews.” This is EmbroidMe Tauranga’s second Most Trusted win and the team hopes to make it three years in a row in 2022.

The Weekend Sun

Friday 26 November 2021

Local jewellers with plenty of experience Trust is a vital factor when it comes to buying jewellery, and Hammon Diamond Jeweller hugely value their reputation for trust and integrity earned over more than 70 years in the industry.

The boutique, located in the heart of downtown Tauranga, stocks a wide range of diamonds, gems and jewellery, plus exclusive brands such as Karen Walker and Swarovski Crystal. Premium watch brands include Seiko and Michel Herbelin, as well as Ice-Watch. Hammon Diamond Jeweller recently won Most Trusted Jeweller at the Most Trusted Business Awards. Full service watch and jewellery repairs are provided, including remodelling, pearl rethreading, jewellery valuations, watch batteries and more.

Their family-owned business, managed by Julie Hammon and Alexandra Hammon Elliott, is very aware of the need to stay relevant in such changeable times; that’s why they are so passionate about exceptional customer service. Julie says that while current business trading conditions in the CBD are challenging and difficult due to the

Julie Hammon and Alexandra Hammon Elliott.

Undercover are back in the spotlight

Mount Maunganui-based pergola, awning and shade cover specialists Undercover Industries have taken home their third Most Trusted Award. They boast a small but passionate team that believes precision and perfection are not a luxury but a simple necessity. “Undercover Industries pergola systems are proudly made and manufactured right here in the sunny Bay of Plenty,” says UC Industries owner Shay Hulsebosch. “We’re locally owned and operated and people like the fact that we’re Mount based. “I’m proud that people think we do a good job; it always makes you feel pretty good that people recommend you. That’s essentially what the Most Trusted Award is – it is people willing to go out there and say that you’ve done a good job. “Quite often we’ll put a pergola in, then we will end up doing a couple of the neighbours and suddenly we’ve done the whole street!” Undercover Industries was born out of the need to create outdoor rooms that enhance the community’s living experience, while allowing you to entertain all year round, protecting family and assets with 99.9 per cent UV protection. “We’re a small company but we’re honest and

A customised pergola by Undercover Industries. reliable, which I think is a big part of our brand,” says Shay. “The one benefit of being tiny is that we can build relationships with people and build our custom pergolas. “We don’t have a single kitset or standard package. “They’re all made and fabricated in Mount Maunganui to suit the property. People come and ask us what our standard kitset is, but we come to your house, measure up and come up with a custom solution for your space, so that’s one of our point of differences. Our customised approach ensures you get exactly what you want, with a simple and easy, stress free process, giving you peace of mind that your job will be completed on time and on budget.”

Burnett

Piper

insurance brokers

many factors around its redevelopment, it is vital that locals keep up the support and patronage of CBD businesses. “The need to attract new and innovative stores into the city centre will add to the many established and boutique offerings that enjoy their niche in the CBD, Hammon Diamond Jeweller included,” says Julie.

Friday 26 November 2021

The Weekend Sun

Stunning stone for your home or business

Pacific Stone’s benches and splashback at the Landmark Taupō Showhome. Cabinetry by Detailed Joinery.

For Pacific Stone, winning a Most Trusted award cements their status as providers of a quality product and exceptional service.

extraodinary opportunities for extraordinary learners

117 Matahui Road, Katikati www.matahui.school.nz 07 552 0655

A leading supplier of natural and engineered stone for the commercial and domestic market since 1985, the Tauranga-based business covers the central North Island for residential customers and all of New Zealand for commercial. Owner Murray Davies says

they always strive to exceed their customers’ expectations and manufacture their products locally. It is the first year Pacific Stone have entered the Most Trusted awards and they are the industry winner for the kitchen stone benchtops category. “It reinforces and endorses us as being all the things we should be,” says Murray, “which is customer focussed with an assurance of quality that meets the client’s needs.” Pacific Stone offers products

for kitchen benchtops, vanities, splashbacks and hearths. They have an extensive range of natural stone from marble to quartzite. As well as natural stone, there are more than 200 varieties of engineered stone so there is something to suit everyone’s taste, style and needs. Products can be viewed online or at Pacific Stone’s showroom on Koromiko Street, where a talented team member will show you through the range and ensure the perfect stone for your new build, renovation or commercial project.

School wins for third year running An independent primary school in the Western Bay of Plenty has been voted Most Trusted School for the third year running. Matahui School, a small rural primary school located just outside of Katikati, is this year’s winner in the Most Trusted Business Awards for 2021. The winners of the 2021 awards are based on more than 2000 client reviews and feedback. Matahui School Principal Mary Woods says the school is “over-the-moon” to receive the award again, especially since they were facing closure because of financial difficulties earlier this year. “We see the students grow and evolve every day,” says Mary, “and while I know the teachers and staff are doing their very best to foster the children’s love for learning, we don’t always get the feedback. This is a fantastic morale boost after what has been a tough year.” The school’s ethos recognises that students have individual strengths and different ways of learning, and provides them with an education that caters to their particular learning style so they get the most out of their education. Matahui is an alternative school and offers a progressive curriculum that caters for diverse learning needs, gifted children and divergent thinkers. “Our small class sizes offer a nurturing environment for children who may struggle with a learning disability, or for children who are perhaps bored in their current learning environment and

Matahui School students with principal Mary Woods.

may benefit from a more stimulating hands-on approach,” says Mary. The school is currently taking enrolments.

The Weekend Sun

The Awnings and Covers team installing a shade sail.

Awnings and Covers pride themselves on superior customer service and quality products. They are often praised for providing excellence in the four Ps: people, product, process and price. The Tauranga-based company has more than 35 years of experience in custom designing, manufacturing and installing Alu-Lite canopies, pergolas, shade sails and outdoor curtains. This year, Awnings and Covers are the Awnings Industry winners in the Most Trusted Awards. This is a reflection of their longevity in the city and

great customer service. Administrator Gilly Bateman says ensuring customer satisfaction is key to their business and they provide follow up care once the work is done. A recent testimonial from a client highlights the impressive level of service Awnings and Covers deliver. “We really appreciate the attention to detail and the craftsmanship. We’re very pleased with our new window canopy covers, your crew have been a pleasure to work with.” Awnings and Covers manufacture with top grade materials. The Alu-Lite Canopy is constructed from genuine high-grade 6061 T6 aluminium

due to its high tensile strength. Where possible, unique hidden attachments are used to avoid visible mounting brackets. Other products manufactured on site include outdoor curtains, fixed frame awnings, folding arm awnings and wire tensioned shade sails that don’t flap in the wind. Made right here in Tauranga, the products are fitted by the Awnings and Covers team or by installers around New Zealand. They can also be ordered as a kitset and sent to most destinations. For more information about what Awnings and Covers have to offer, see the advert on this page.

Talking quality with Oceanside Homes

Alan Clark, Kris Nero, Claudia Fischer, Tim Boys and Parker Cook (absent) from Oceanside Homes Ltd.

Oceanside Homes have placed second in the Most Trusted Awards 2021 for Home Builder - single region Tauranga, and have been named in the most trusted category for three years running. “We want to thank our clients and suppliers for voting for us,” says Oceanside Homes sales manager Alan Clark. “It’s great that they appreciate us, and we certainly appreciate them.” Tauranga owned and operated, Oceanside Homes have successfully built many new homes in the Bay, which they closely manage from start to finish. It’s clear they have a point of difference. “We offer a unique service in that we have an in-house architectural designer and technologist, enabling us to consult fully with clients not only on their design, but the entire building process to create the home of their dreams.”

Anyone who is looking to build can be assured that the Oceanside Homes team will listen carefully to their ideas. “We work with our client from concept to completion, whereas a lot of other builders send their plans to be drawn off site.” Oceanside Homes’ professionalism, excellent levels of service and depth of general trade knowledge helps to ensure happy, satisfied new homeowners. Clients have found their service exemplary, from guiding them through the subdivision process which can be complex - to liaising with council, surveyors, geotechnical engineers and septic tank specialists to help make it all happen. Being able to have technical terms and issues explained clearly can be very helpful and reassuring, and Oceanside deliver quality homes with an excellent standard of workmanship.

Friday 26 November 2021

Fight for your whakapapa.

Get vaccinated. www.fightforyourwhakapapa.co.nz

The Weekend Sun

Friday 26 November 2021

Shop local and get Situated on the southern gateway to Tauranga and just 6km from downtown, with more than 120 retailers and a mix of attractive shops, eateries and services, Greerton Village is a hidden gem. Although current Covid-19 restrictions have caused Greerton Village to cancel this year’s annual Christmas Show, Main Street manager Sally Benning says the community has come together to create three amazing Christmas hampers. “Unfortunately we have had to cancel our Christmas Show but our Christmas hamper promotion will begin on Monday, November 29,” says Sally. “We have 63 businesses that have all donated either a voucher or a Christmas gift, and anyone who makes a purchase in any of the 63 shops will go into the draw. “There will be three prizes all together, and they are all equally great.” Sally says the promotion is all about getting people to come into Greerton and to have an opportunity to win a great prize just before Christmas. “It’s all about pushing Greerton and pushing the fact that it’s a good place for Christmas shopping. We have such a wide variety of shopping here. “We differ from a lot of other shopping centres, as most of our store owners are small owner-operated businesses. “Due to Covid we have been running a lot of campaigns that push ‘buy local because it matters’, which I think is really important here. “A lot of members of the community have taken that on-board, and we certainly have tried to encourage people to keep shopping locally.”

With 15,000 entries in last year’s Christmas hamper promotion, this is something you don’t want to miss out on. Entries close just before Christmas on Friday, December 17.

There are three fabulous gift hampers to be won in Greerton Village this Christmas season.

Friday 26 November 2021

The Weekend Sun

Should I renovate my home before selling? But the increase in house New Zealand’s property sector remains a prices is a double-edged sword. hot topic, with the market moving at an How can you stand out from extraordinary pace and homeowners looking the crowd and take at record returns on their investment. full advantage of the

With median house prices continually on the rise, market upswing? There are modern-day homeowners are looking for ways to optimise the conveniences that potential selling of their homes. buyers have come to expect when purchasing a house, and a renovation before selling might be your best option. One thing to consider is recladding. It will modernise your home and remove any ‘leaky house’ worry from potential buyers. Consider the layout. A house with great bones can often be turned into an open plan home

far easier than many expect, and doing so offers buyers far more flexibility when it comes to space. It can also create the illusion that the home is bigger than it actually is. The second option is to extend, creating additional rooms by developing the basement, adding another storey or extending into the yard. Renovating is an effective way of addressing any ‘weak points’ that could decrease its overall value. The real balancing act is choosing the right renovations, where costs can not only be recouped but exceeded during the sale process.

High cost of building supplies under review Ensuring Kiwis have access to fairly priced building materials is a driving factor in the government’s decision to review the residential building supply market. Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, David Clark, has confirmed that government are looking at ways to lay the foundations for a more competitive building sector. “We are delivering this manifesto commitment because good housing underpins a range of social,

economic and health outcomes,” he says. “Therefore it is critical Kiwis have access to fairly priced building supplies. “Understanding any market barriers could play a key role in supporting New Zealanders achieve home ownership, so I’m pleased the Commerce Commission will be getting this work underway. “It’s clear a significant portion of the costs associated with building residential housing is tied to building supplies. As New Zealand’s population has increased over the last decade, residential building consents have more than tripled. Alongside that, current demand for renovations and extensions to existing homes is at the highest it’s been in 15 years.” The study will allow the Commerce Commission to investigate any factors that may affect competition

for the supply or acquisition of key building supplies. “This includes the foundation, flooring, roof, walls and insulation. “There have been long-standing concerns about potential competition issues, particularly due to the highly concentrated nature of some markets in the supply chain,” says Clark. This is the third market study of its kind in New Zealand. It follows a similar piece of work into the retail fuel sector completed in December 2019, which found that motorists were paying higher petrol prices due to a lack of competition, and led to the Fuel Industry Act. The second market study into the retail grocery sector is ongoing, with the final report due in March 2022. The Commerce Commission will present its final report on residential building supplies in December 2022.

07 552 5822 murray@thedwellingco.co.nz www.thedwellingco.co.nz

The Weekend Sun

Friday 26 November 2021

Lifestyle property sales ‘levelling out’

Build with confidence Debbie and Craig Williams of Signature Homes Tauranga and Bay of Plenty know a thing or two about building beautiful Kiwi homes.

They’ve been doing so in the region for more than 30 years. Signature Homes takes care of all the nuts and bolts, so you can relax and be confident your build is in good hands from start to finish. On-time, on budget and with no nasty surprises, they promise New Zealand’s most comprehensive building guarantees, including their fixed price guarantee. Whether you have an idea of your dream home planned out, or you’re just starting your build journey, their team can help you create a space that’s perfectly in tune with the way you like to live.

One of the many benefits of working with Signature Homes is that you get access to your own team of experts who will be with you every step of the way, including their highly-experienced end-to-end design and build team. Signature Homes is committed to building together for a better future, and positively contributing to New Zealand’s goal to be carbon neutral by 2050. Together, through innovative partnerships and improved construction and supply processes, they will hone in on three defined areas of work – protecting our environment, caring for our people and building better homes for Kiwis. Contact Signature Homes Tauranga and Bay of Plenty on: 0800 102 105 for more information.

Be inspired by Signature Homes’ beautiful design and build customer home in Pāpāmoa.

New data from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand shows there were 44 fewer lifestyle property sales for the three months ended October 2021 than the previous month. Overall, there were 1645 lifestyle property sales in the three months ended October 2021, compared to 2788 lifestyle property sales for the three months ended October 2020 and 1689 for the three months ended September 2021. There were 9170 lifestyle properties sold in the year to October 2021 – some 1174 more than were sold in the year to October 2020. The value of lifestyle properties sold was $10.16 billion for the year to October 2021. The median price for all lifestyle properties sold in the three months to October 2021 was $951,90, and was over 23 per cent higher than the three months ended October 2020.

“Sales figures just released for lifestyle properties show a major drop of 41 per cent compared to the same period in October 2020,” says REINZ rural spokesperson Brian Peacocke. “But interestingly enough, they are very similar to the results last month and those for October 2021. “Availability of supply and emerging caution in response to likely increases in interest rates, plus the need for sizeable deposits, are all likely factors impacting on the wider marketplace. “For all that, however, the national median price at $967,500 is still the highest seen in the last two years at least.” Bay of Plenty and Rotorua results reflect a recovery from the slide of the past two months, which was lower than 12 months ago but better than in 2019. The Western Bay of Plenty dominated the region, with the median price being reasonably consistent.

Building togethe r for a better future

Building a new home shouldn’t cost the environment Signature Homes is proud to announce that our greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions created by the construction of each Signature Homes home will be counteracted by planting native trees with Trees That Count. We’ll also be protecting our unique biodiversity by helping to save the kiwi as part of our premium partnership with the kiwi recovery programme ‘Save the Kiwi’. Learn more at Signature.co.nz/page/building-together-nz

B U I L D I N G TO G E T H E R F O R A B E T T E R F U T U R E

VOG20211105

Friday 26 November 2021

The Weekend Sun

32 THE WEEKEND SUN

The Weekend Sun’s ever popular guide to ‘What’s On’ in the Bay.

Please try not to kill musicians I thought I’d narrowed last week down to gigs that would definitely happen. Yeah right. The Legends Live show (December 4) is off - the latest in a long line.

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But finally I get the feeling things might be about to turn a corner, at least in live music terms. We seem to be getting to the pointy end of things, specifically to the vexing issue of vaccine and mask

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mandates. A number of people are becoming increasingly vocal, and inconveniencing other folk by driving really tardily. Good work there – thank you for contributing that peculiar slow-motion tantrum to society. But I do feel a certain right to broach this subject, since vaccine and mask mandates are going to have a direct effect upon whether live music returns to many venues and events. Oh, and those increasingly vocal people? There are a number of people who oppose vaccine and mask mandates. There are only a few of them; turns out the vast be fun. At some point it usually involved them majority value their safety and support mandates. getting the chills and feeling sick, but there was I know most musicians do. plenty of drinking and dancing before that so More than a few have in fact been avoiding who cared? playing live because of the risks. I know musicians who are immunocompromised. Billions They are unable to be vaccinated and are Now those same people tell me they’re refusing a therefore at greater risk of catching Covid. vaccination supported by an absolute majority of Oh, and if they do they’ll most likely die. the world’s scientists, that has been rolled out to They support vaccine mandates for venues. billions without noticeable problems, because they “don't know what’s in it”. Families Then there are the people who don’t like to I also know musicians who have be told what to do. No government’s going to immunocompromised partners; I know take away their freedoms. If they’re old enough I two musicians who have suspect they’re the same people who vowed never immunocompromised children. They are understandably wary about taking home to have a drink again in a pub when smoking was banned indoors by “the smoking Nazis”. a disease that might kill their loved ones. Yep, that old Nazi thing again. Funny how And that’s partly why there are vaccine and quickly those people’s boycott of pubs passed, mask mandates. Because if you are vaccinated and pretty much as soon as it inconvenienced them... masked you are far less likely to catch Covid, and These are people who probably drive around if you do catch it you are far less likely to pass it without seatbelts. Cause, y’know, they don't like on. And that makes it far less likely that you’ll kill to be told what to do. these musician friends of mine and their families. The problem is, not getting vaccinated isn’t like Perhaps, if you like music, you could make that not wearing a seatbelt. The damage you cause a consideration. by not wearing a seatbelt is to yourself. Being Other than that, I might mention that I’m unvaccinated is more like ignoring the speed limit: really struggling to remain polite to the “vaccineit’s you plus whoever else you happen to kill. hesitant” as I listen to the illogical nonsense many And hey, I’m sorry to keep using blunt terms spout. Of course, when polls show that 20 per like “you are going to kill people”, but I’m not cent of the vaccine-hesitant would get vaccinated if given $100, you really start to lose sympathy for exaggerating. There’s going to be Covid all around us and I’m sorry if you feel your freedoms are their reluctance. being impinged upon, but as far as gigs go I’d like I know people who, a few years back when party to see musicians feel safe enough to go out and pills were legal, would gobble the damned things play without fearing for their lives. by the handful every weekend, happily declaring And yes, I’d prefer it if you didn’t kill them that they weren’t sure what they’d do but it would

The Weekend Sun

Friday 26 November 2021

Tauranga’s brightest night walk

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Hundreds are expected to walk the city streets for the first Walking Stars in Tauranga. Photo: Supplied.

A new Tauranga event is set to give participants the chance to experience the city at night while raising funds to support local people living with cancer.

a positive impact for whānau affected by cancer in their community. “Most people will know someone affected by cancer, and some walkers will even have had their own cancer experience.” CANCER SOCIETY The Cancer Society has three nurses working in TAURANGA WALKING STARS the Bay of Plenty region. They provide one-on-one support and information for people living with cancer. They also connectAD people(180x110) with practical - OPTION services, such as transport to treatment and prepared meals, to help ease some of the stress. THE “These services are free,” says Shay, “which is why TA U R events like Walking Stars are vital for us, because the funds they raise make this possible. “Walking Stars is a great way to set yourself a fun, physical challenge for the New Year, and a fundraising challenge that will make a difference for your community.” To register, visit: www.walkingstars.org.nz

Cancer Society event coordinator Shay Rout says she’s excited to bring Walking Stars to Tauranga for the very first time. The night-time event, on February 12, 2022, will see hundreds of walkers set off from The Strand at twilight on either a 12km or half-marathon route around the city centre, incorporating Memorial Park. “Walking Stars is all about being part of a vibrant community experience,” says Shay. “I’m expecting to see a lot of colour and energy on the streets of Tauranga. “But the real motivating factor for people signing on for Walking Stars is the desire to have

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Learning to value your personal health “The first wealth is health.” Ralph Waldo Emerson.

Health is our greatest asset. Without it our other assets can be restricted. When we have health issues our thoughts, if we allow them, are filtered through our pain and those pain filters can colour and distort everything. However, we can use our other assets to take back control of what we still have, as we always have a choice in how we deal with those health issues.

We can either allow them to control us or take back control of how we respond, no matter how challenging they may be. What insights and attitudes could you draw on that would help you extract the wealth (of your other assets) when you face your health issues? If you would like to know more about relationship or narrative coaching phone Mary Parker, The Fast Track Coach, on: 07 577 1200/021 258 2145, or visit: www.thefasttrackcoach.co.nz

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1.30pm 4pm

11.30am 1.45pm

11.35am 1.30pm

2.15pm 7pm

A Boy Called Christmas (PG)

12.40pm

1pm

11.15am

4pm

The Power of the Dog (R13)

1pm 3.20pm

1.20pm 8.10pm

11am 3.50pm

11am 6.30pm

11am 6.20pm

11.20am 3.40pm

8.10pm

4pm 1.50pm

11.15am 3.10pm

11.20pm

5pm

The Many Saints of Newark (R16) Juniper (M)

2.50pm

4pm

No Time to Die (M)

6pm

5.30pm

5.40pm

6pm

5.45pm

3.45pm

1.50pm

2.35pm

The Rescue (E)

BE PART OF TAURANGA’S BRIGHTEST NIGHT WALK!

SATURDAY I2 FEBRUARY 2022

walkingstars.org.nz

Friday 26 November 2021 THE WEEKEND SUN

Saturday 27 November Association Croquet

Sat, Mon & Wed at Club Mt Maunganui, 45 Kawaka St. 9:15 for 9:30am start. New players & visitors welcome. Ph Jacqui 574 9232

Bay Singles Social Club

Join a bunch of over 50’s young singles. Weekend dinners, potlucks, occasional outings. Have a go! Ph Delia 027 284 8762, Andrea 021 133 0313

Baycourt

Type Cast presented byKJ Studios. 5pm at Addison Theatre (dance). Tickets available from ticketek. co.nz 0800 TICKETEK (Nov 26-29)

Beth-El Messianic Family

Celebrate Shabbat (Sabbath) as did Messiah Yeshua (Jesus), his disciples and early believers. All welcome. Otumoetai Primary 10am or Facebook Live 11am. Joel 02 176 8043 info@bethel.org.nz

Free Water Safety Sessions

Water Safety Month - Free Water Safety Community Sessions NZ 12-2pm Mount College Pool. Fun, sausage sizzle, bring togs and towel. All welcome

Greerton Hall Market

2nd & last Saturday each month. 8am-12noon. Stalls inside/outside. Discounts for charities. Kitchen open level 1. Ph/txt for site. Tricia 07 543 1487 or 027 908 2952, www facebook.com/ greertonhallmarket

Jigsaw Library

Saturdays 10am-12noon. Everyone must wear a mask. Hire: 500p 50c, 1000p $1. Choose from 500 jigsaw puzzles, landscape, wasgij, children’s. roo field, off ighmore errace

Katikati Bowling Club

8 Park Rd 12:45-3pm

Katikati Crop Swap

to put some spice back into their lives. Book @iTicket (26 Nov-11 Dec)

Tauranga Farmers Market

7:45am-12noon at Tauranga Primary School cnr Cameron Road & 5th Avenue. Rain, hail or shine. Direct from the producers. Support local

Tauranga Fuchsia Group

Open day, free entry. 1:30-4pm Tauranga Art/Craft Centre, Elizabeth St. Fuchsia/perennial plants for sale. Workshops on cuttings and fuchsia care. You must wear a mask!

Petanque Tauranga BOP Association

Club days Sat, Tues & Thurs. Tawa Street, Mt Maunganui. French game layed ith i i flair, bo les a ailable. Ph John 022 075 4251 for playing times

Village Radio Museum

Community Radio broadcasting nostalgic music & Community Notices seven days on 1368 KHz AM Band. Radio Museum open from 10am. Request line 571 3710

Sunday 28 November Croquet

Sun, Tues & Fri at Tauranga Domain, Cameron Rd. 12:45 for 1pm start. Beginners welcome. Ph Peter 571 0633

Farmers Market - Mount Mainstreet

Every Sunday 9am-1pm rain or shine! Te Papa o Nga Manu Porotakataka (Phoenix Park) www.mountmainstreet. nz

Golf Croquet

Sun, Tues & Thurs at Club Mt Maunganui, 45 Kawaka St. 9:15 for 9:30am start. New players & visitors welcome. Ph Nev 575 5121

Oropi Sunday Market

Rain or shine, the market is housed in the vibrant Oropi Memorial Hall where you can browse the awesome array of stalls comfortably. 9am-1pm.

Every 1st Saturday of the month, 14 Jocelyn Street. Swap home garden rod ce, lants, flo ers, seeds, herbs, eggs, preserves etc. 07 549 4522

Maketu Market

LOL Laughter Wellness

Maori History Walks

Due to the nature of our activity, laughter sessions are on hold until return to Covid Level 1.Trish 022 036 6768 lollaughterwellness@gmail. com. Check our new website www. lollaughterwellness.weebly.com

Omokoroa Market

9am-12pm Omokoroa Settlers Hall. Come and shop for Xmas crafts, food, produce, coffee & loads more omokoroamarket@gmail.com

Swingers, 16th Ave Theatre

Ralph, Archie and George have been golf buddies for years. Their wives want

The Weekend Sun

3rd and 5th Sunday. Setup from 7am at Maketu Village Green. $10 per stall. Ph Maureen 021 267 1685 Experience our popular Maori history hkoi that retells stories of Maori settlement of Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty coastline. Book here: https://www. traveled.co.nz/upcoming-experiences

NZDA BOP Range Day

NZDA BOP branch run public open days last Sunday each month at their 300m range in TECT All Terrain Park. am-3 m $ 0 bring firearms licence

Papamoa Farmers Market

58 Ashley Place, Papamoa 8:30am-12noon. Live music, food trucks, vegetables, coffee, seedlings,

‘Dear readers, these events will mostly be affected by the COVID-19 lockdown but please browse through them for ideas and inspiration for when we are all back to normal.’ playground, fresh meat & seafood

Papamoa Lions Club Market

2nd & 4th Sunday. Gordon Spratt Reserve, Parton Rd, Papamoa. Gates open 7am for stall holder entry. Wayne 027 974 5699

Plant Sale Quarry

Te Puna Quarry Park. Plants, garden tools, coffee cart and more. Free entry. Please bring cash for stalls as well as bags’

Public Range Day

NZDA public range day - Last nday of each month. 300m rifle range at the TECT Park, open from 9am to approx. 3pm. $20/shooter

Quarry Park Plant Sale

10am-1pm, Te Puna Quarry Park. Plants, Chrismas trees, coffees, defibrillator demonstrations. ring cash. Plant donations welcome. tepunaquarrypark@gmail.com

Radio Controlled Model Yachts

Sun & Thurs 1:30-4pm. Pond behind 22 Montego Drive Papamoa, sailing Electron Radio Controlled Yachts for fun. Adult beginners welcome. Graham 572 5419

Tauranga Amateur Variety Concert

Light jazz/classical. 2-3:30pm. $10 admission, children +5yrs allowed. Holy Trinity Events Centre cnr Devonport & 3rd ave. www.tavac.co.nz

Tauranga Open Woodworking Group 2nd & 4th Wednesdays at 6:30pm & 2nd & 4th Saturdays at 10am. Workshop 3 Cherokee Place, Mt Maunganui

Monday 29 November Alcoholics Anonymous

Open meeting 10am Tauranga Central Baptist Church. cnr Cameron Rd/13th ave. All welcome. Ph 0800 229 6757

Badminton Club, Aquinas College

Mon & Weds Tauranga Badminton Club, 7-9pm, Aquinas College Events Centre. Seniors & Year 11 upwards, Casual players welcome, $8pp, Racquets available. Ph/txt Noel 027 622 9797 www.sporty/ taurangabadmintonclub.co.nz

Keep On Your Feet

Omokoroa 11am-12, Settlers Hall, 334 Omokoroa Road. Strength & balance classes for older adults. All le els of fitness elcome. h harnie 021 111 8617

Let’s Learn Something New

An A-Z of clubs, courses & classes happening now. Find an activity, join & do it! All ages. www.letslearn.co.nz or Ph 07 544 9557

Men4Change Men’s Support Group

Supporting men who are feeling low, anxious, depressed, experiencing relationship breakdown & loneliness. Every 2nd Monday 7-9pm (tonight). 1235 Cameron Rd. Info: men4change.org or support@men4change.org

Pickleball Morning Play

Mount Sports Centre 9:15am-12:15pm. Join the fun! Beginners welcome. Bats and balls provided. $5. The Mount Pickleball Club. Bob 027 478 6282

Tauranga City Brass Band

Come along and join our friendly band. New players welcome. Rehearsals 7-9pm at 10 Yatton St. Ph Jeremy 021 132 3341

Tauranga Creative Fibre

Every Mon 9:30am and 2nd & 4th Thurs 6:30pm. Join us learning new skills, knitting, crochet, spinning, weaving,dyeing & felting 177 Elizabeth St, Tauranga. Ph Cathy 07 570 2191

Tauranga Men’s Shed

Open Mon-Fri at the Historic Village. Toyshop selling wooden toys, mah-jong racks etc. Wednesdays, surplus tools and materials sold

Tauranga Stamp Club

Wesley Methodist Church, 100 Thirteenth Ave. 10am on the 2nd and 7:30pm on the 4th Monday of the month All welcome. Ph Tony 07 549 5015 or Brian 07 576 5210

Tauranga Wood Carvers Group

2nd & 4th Mondays of the month 9:30am-2:30pm at Tauranga Woodcrafters workshop 3 Cherokee Place, Mt Maunganui

Western Bay Museum Tour

Make your Museum experience come alive with a fascinating guided tour. Mon & Thurs 11am. WBOP residents and ratepayers FREE. Other: Adult $5/ GC $4. 32 Main Rd, Katikati. Ph 07 549 0651

Zonta Club of Tauranga

programme evening. Sandra 027 483 8454 www.altrusa.org.nz

Bayfair Petanque Club

A new season, try a new sport. Petanque at Russley Drive Tues & Thurs 12:45pm. Boules & tuition available. Turn up or Ph Alf 021 175 9282

Conversation Cafe Dee St

Friends in the making at Pressie Church Hall cnr Macville Rd and Dee St, 10-11:45am all ages welcome. $5. Ph 021 127 4277

Dark Green

A fresh start for our divided land www. meetup.com/DarkGreen midday via zoom

Fitness Fun & Coffee

Cardio, dance, weights, dance, floor or , dance, ha e f n and feel good. 9:30-10:30am St Columba Church, 502 Otumoetai Road, Cherrywood. Ph Gloria 021 139 2448

Keep On Your Feet

Katikati 10:30am-11:30am, Memorial Hall, Main Road. Strength & balance classes for older adults. All le els of fitness elcome. h harnie 021 111 8617

New Club Formation

Inaugural meeting to gauge interest in new U3A club Eastern Tauranga 7pm Papamoa SRC, Gordon Spratt. See u3a.nz

Otumoetai Walking Group

Meet at 9am at Kulim Park. Ph Danny 576 6480

Overeaters Anonymous

Is your eating affecting the way you, or someone else, live your lives? Overeating, undereating - meet every Tuesday 7-8pm and Friday 1-2pm. Ph 0210 236 3236

Papamoa Table Tennis

Come along for some friendly competition. 7-9pm Papamoa College Gym Cost: $5 for adults $4 for students. Bats available for use. Ph Brendon 022 157 3480

Recycled Teenagers Gentle Exercise

Service club empowering women & girls through service & advocacy. We meet on the 2nd Monday each month. Ph Leigh 0210 267 2631

St Mary’s Church cnr Girven & Marlin. 9-10:30am. Suitable for joint replacements, arthritics, recovery from accidents & illness. Strength, coordination & balance. Jennifer 571 1411

Tuesday 30 November

Tauranga Acoustic Music Club

Alcoholics Anonymous

Open meeting 7:30pm St Peters Anglican Church. 11 Victoria Rd. Mt Maunganui. All welcome. Ph 0800 229 6757

Altrusa Int’l Tauranga

Women’s Service Group meet every 2nd Tuesday for business meeting and projects and every 4th Tuesday for

Greerton RSA 7pm. Friendly gettogether, all instruments, all levels of ability. Come in & enjoy some live music. Grant 578 6448

Tauranga Model Railway Club

We meet every Tuesday 9:30am and Thursday 7:30pm at the clubrooms upstairs on the cnr of Mirrielees and Cross roads, Sulphur Point. Ph Mike ldfield 0 3 33

The Weekend Sun

Friday 26 November 2021

THE WEEKEND SUN

Tauranga South Bowls

Exercise your brain, body and meet new friends. Free coaching and loan bowls available. Don’t just sit there, book a time! 15 Tutchen St. Ph 578 6881 or 578 6213

Te Puke Pipe Band

Weekly 6-8pm at Te Puke Baptist Church, Station Road Te Puke. Learner Pipers & Drummers welcome. Free tuition provided. Ph Jo 021 052 6728

Te Puna Tennis Club

Senior tennis Tuesdays from 9am. Friendly club. New members welcome. Tangitu Road, Te Puna. Left past the rugby grounds. Ph Catherine 02 150 6855

Wednesday 1 December 10 Pin Bowling

1pm @ 10 Pin Tauranga, 135 13th Avenue. Play for fun but keep the score. Very occasionally competitive. Ph Glenda 021 257 8678

Alcoholics Anonymous

Open meeting 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month. Tauranga Central Baptist Church, Corner Cameron Rd/ 13th ave.All welcome. Ph 0800 229 6757

Adults Ballet Plus

Adults Ballet/Plus lots of dance styles covered. St Peter’s Church Hall Beach Rd, Katikati. 12:30pm Ph Gaye 07 577 1753 or 027 274 8753 gayehemsley@gmail.com

Age Concern Walking Group

Meet at 10am Memorial Park on Eleventh Ave Ph Renee 07 576 6699

Cards

Cribbage 12:45 at RSA Greerton. Friendly club. New members very welcome. Ph Jill 021 160 6143

Fernland Spa Gentle Exercise

Chlorine free warm mineral water. Suitable for joint replacements, arthritics & recovery from accident or illness. Great for strength, flexibility, coordination & balance. Jennifer 027 206 0776

Healing Rooms Prayer

Experience God’s healing touch. Last day this year is 8th Dec. Central Baptist Lounge. 640 Cameron Road. 1-3pm. All welcome. No charge. www. healingrooms.co.nz 021 213 8875

Kaimai Ramblers Tramping Group Ngamuwahine through to Cookhouse Clearing, North to Old West Tramway to Salvation Hut. Grade Easy/Mod. Kevin 0210 200 6306

Marching For Leisure

A non-competitive activity for mature ladies. Fun, Fitness & Friendship. For Tauranga team’s practice and details Ph Sally Smith 07 562 8684

Pickleball Morning Play

8-weeks 9:30am-12noon www. stpetershouse.co.nz to register or 07 571 5916

Floral Hub

Thursdays at Our Place on Willow St. My Place Flowers and Foliage grown and picked gresh by local growers for sale. Open 7-7:30am for florists and 7:30-9am for the public

Friday 3 December Alcoholics Anonymous

Open meeting 10am Tauranga Central Baptist Church. cnr Cameron Rd/13th ave. All welcome. Ph 0800 229 6757

Katikati Sewing & Knitting

Baypark 10am to 12noon. Join the fun! Beginners welcome. Bats and balls provided. $5. The Mount Pickleball Club. Bob 027 478 6282

Katikati Bowling Club

Te Puna Tennis Club

8 Park Rd Rummikub 1-4pm, $3 entry

Fridays 10-11am. 14 Jocelyn Street Katikati. Sewing machines and lessons/help available. Ph 07 549 4522

Katikati Concert Band

Pickleball Evening Play

Keynotes Womens Barbershop Chorus

Pickleball Morning Play

Social tennis from 6pm. New members welcome. Tangitu Road, Te Puna. Left past the rugby grounds. Ph Catherine 02 150 6855

Western Bay Museum Tour

Make your museum experience come alive with a fascinating guided tour. 2pm. WBOP residents and ratepayers FREE. Other: Adult $5/ GC $4. 32 Main Rd, Katikati. Ph 07 549 0651

Tauranga MidWeek Tramping Group

Tui Rd (Te Aroha) to Mangakino Shelter. Grade moderate. Heather 027 226 5269

Tauranga Scrollsaw Woodworking Group

1st & 3rd Wednesdays of the month 9:30am-2:30pm at the Tauranga Woodcrafters Workshop at 3 Cherokee Place, Mt Maunganui

Tauranga South Garden Club

Katikati Bowling Club, 8 Park Road, 7pm. Come and join our friendly band. All brass, woodwind and percussion players welcome. Ph Eryl 02 140 4163

7pm at Wesley Hall, 100 13th Ave. If you love singing come join us. Now taking bookings for 2022. Ph Bernice 576 4848. Facebook Keynotes Inc.

Kickstart Toastmasters

Develop your confidence and s Speaking skills in a fun, supportive club setting. 7am at Basestation, 148 Durham St, CBD. Visitors welcome. Ph Stan 022 390 2216

LOL Laughter Te Puke

Due to the nature of our activity, laughter sessions are on hold until we reach Covid Level 1. Trish 022 036 6768 lollaughterwellness@ gmail.com Website www. lollaughterwellness.weebly.com

1st Wednesday of the month. Central Baptist Church Hall, cnr Cameron Rd and 13th Ave. 1-2:30pm. Visitors welcome. Ph Carmen 027 378 2248

Tauranga Porcelain Artists

Tauranga Wood Turners Group

Thurs 9th Dec at Te Puna Memorial Hall: 7pm. Open meeting - Three waters, Te Puna a green wedge. Revision community plan. Howard 027 552 5015

Queen Elizabeth Youth Centre 9:15-11:45am. Join the fun! Beginners welcome. Bats and balls provided. $5. The Mount Pickleball Club. Bob 027 478 6282

Swingers, 16th Ave Theatre

Ralph, Archie and George have been golf buddies for years. Their wives want to put some spice back into their lives. Book @iTicket (26 Nov-11 Dec)

Tauranga Patchwork & Quilters

1st & 3rd Tuesday 7pm; 2nd & 4th Friday 10am. Tauranga Art & Craft Centre, 177 Elizabeth Street. Ph Denise 027 291 9917

Te Puke Bowling Club

9am Thursdays. You are invited to come and learn the very beautiful art of glaze on porcelain. Club Rooms, Elizabeth Street. Ph Maria 027 553 3042

New members welcome. Loan bowls available. Friday rollup 12:45pm. Ph Te Puke Club 573 9709

Across 1. Airline (3,3,7) 8. Manner (5) 9. Plant (7) 10. Bird (6) 11. Plaster (6) 12. Bonkers (5) 14. Observes (5) 18. Possesors (6) 20. Jabber (6) 23. Quack remedy (7) 24. Requested (5) 25. Governor General (1950’s) (7,6) Down 1. Allocate (6) 2. Fabric (5) 3. Component (7) 4. Nought (4) 5. Grown-up (5)

No. 1754

6. Lawlessness (7) 7. River (SI) (6) 13. Forgetfulness (7) 15. Confidence (7) 16. Drink (6) 17. Interfere (6) 19. Country (5) 21. Pastry cook (5) 22. Rascals (4) A A B A I A S A T A F A F

R O U N D B T U R M O I L

A C L C I C R C U C L C A

W E L C O M E D A L L O T

H E E E T E A E N E O E E

A S H Y F S K Y T O W E R

T G A G G G G G G G E G E

A C R O B A T S H B R A G

I I I I I I I I A I I I I

U S H E R J M A G P I E S

Solution 1753

S K A K D K A K R K R K T

E A R L I E R L E L I T E

D M I M E M U M E M S M R

Te Puna Heartlands Meeting

1st Tuesday & 4th Wednesday of the month at the Tauranga Woodcrafters workshop at 3 Cherokee Place, Mount Maunganui 9:30am-2:30pm

Turning Point Clothing Sale

Thursday 2 December Baycourt

Aladdin presented by Gillian Moore School of Dance at Addison Theatre (dance). Tickets available from ticketek.co.nz 0800 TICKETEK (Dec 2-5)

Cap Life Skills

Free budgeting, practical money saving, getting organised, healthy eating, positive well-being course.

Tauranga Boys College 7-9pm. Beginners welcome. Bats and balls provided. $5. The Mount Pickleball Club. Bob 027 478 6282

MEDIUM

Community clothing and linen sale, $5 to fill a bag, cash only. Starts at 9am, The Historic Village, 17th Ave, Tauranga

SUDOKU 3 2 5

No.2114

How to solve Sudoku! Fill the grid so that every row and every 3x3 square contains the digits 1 to 9

5 2 2 6 9 How to solve Solution No.2113 5 3 1 2 4 8 5 2 1 3 9 7 6 Sudoku! MEDIUM No.2114 5 9 1 3 6 7 2 8 4 7 4 2 8 3 1 4 9 5 7 6 3 32 THE BARREL ROOM Sun 28th Blaze + The Elvis Fill the grid so that 6 5 9 7 3 1 4 2 8 9 6 Sat 27th John Key trio 7pm Show 3-6pm 51 2 4 every row and every4 3 2 6 8 5 7 9 1 1 7 8 2 9 4 1contains9 2 7 4 1 6 38 56 53 LATITUDE 37 7 CORNERSTONE PUB 5 2 9 3x3thesquare 3 digits 1 to 9 3 4 5 9 2 8 6 1 7 Fri 26th Sam Fisher 8:30pm Fri 26th Mark Joseph 4 6 8 1 6 5 7 3 9 4 2 9:30pm Sat 27th Damo 8:30pm 2 6 9 Sat 27th Mark Joseph Sun 28th Josh Pow 4-7pm olution N No.2113 o. 2 1 1 3 9:30pm 5 3 7 6S Solution 1 2 4 8 5 2 1 3 9 How to solve VERY THE PHOENIX 5 9 1 3 6 7 2 8 4 Sudoku! JACK EASY DUSTY’S (Bureta) 7 Sun 28th The Anzacs 3 No.1622 4 2 8 3 1 4 9 5 7 6 Sat 27th Tracey McDonald 3-6pm 6 5 9 7 3 1 4 2 8 4 1 2 8 Band 7:30-10:30pm 1 2 Fill the grid 9so that 6 4 3 2 6 8 5 7 9 1 1 7 8 2 9 4 3 6 5 9 5 every AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD4NOW! 9 row and every 1 9 2 7 4 1 6 8 5 3 Your birthday Diplomatic, or merely secretive? Only those who know you well, know for sure. You love beautiful square contains 3 4 5 9 2 8 6 1 7 1 3x3the 5 7 2 4 this weEk objects, you love to travel and though your circle of friends is not large, you love your close companions 4 digits 6 1 to 9 8 1 6 5 7 3 9 4 2 intensely. A new opportunity for travel could evolve. A career decision requires special review. 2 8 5 7 Solution No.1621 5 6 3 9 7 3 2 8 6 1 4 7 9 5 5 7 1 2 9 8 6 3 4 5 6 7 1 9 4 6 7 5 3 2 1 8

Katikati Bowling Club

8 Park Road. Mixed Roll-ups 12:45-3pm

SUDOKU

Friday 26 November 2021

The Weekend Sun

CLASSIFIEDSECTION

PH: 07 557 0505 EMAIL: nadia@sunmedia.co.nz Pages can be viewed online at www.theweekendsun.co.nz

trades & services

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The mark of a good celebrant Summer is on our doorstep, with warmer weather and longer days just around the corner.

Funeral celebrant Mike Savage.

As these changes happen, so does our daily outlook on life, and we are not always accepting of change. However, following the loss of a loved one, the quality of service that Mike Savage provides doesn’t change no matter what the season or the time of the year. The mark of a good celebrant is someone who is willing to work closely with you and follow your create the right funeral service for you and your instructions, whilst bringing their own ideas to loved one. The celebrant’s role combines three qualities: a good listener, a good writer and a good performer. Mike provides these qualities with compassion, empathy and professional skill, combined with 30 years as a funeral director and celebrant. For Mike, it is an honour and a privilege to work alongside you and your family to create and officiate a unique service to celebrate your loved one’s life. If you would like to chat with Mike, or for more information, please call: 022 155 7204, email: mikes53@outlook.co.nz or visit: www.mikesavagecelebrant.com

Kerb Damaged Wheel?

0800 537 233 www.wheelmagician.co.nz

The Weekend Sun

Friday 26 November 2021

trades & services

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LAWNMOWING Totally Cut

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Friday 26 November 2021

The Weekend Sun

trades & services

health & wellness

gardening

automotive

situations vacant

funeral services

situations vacant

Our family helping your family wanted 07 543 3151 www.hopefunerals.co.nz 4 Keenan Road, Pyes Pa, Tauranga

The Weekend Sun

Friday 26 November 2021

deceased health & beauty

bible digest

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. naturalpetremediesstore.com

LORD, BE GRACIOUS to us; we long for you. Be our strength every morning, our salvation in times of distress. (Isaiah 33:2)

computers

COMPUTER PROBLEMS? Remote access/repairs, viruses, upgrades, hardware, tuition, advice. For a no obligation chat or quote call Anthony or Bruce on 07 576 7940

livestock

AC PETFOODS collect injured & unwanted cows & horses. Ph 0800 369 6269

curriculum vitae

CVs THAT STAND OUT. A C.V. For You can help you look great on paper. Targeted or generic cover letters also available. Samples to view on facebook www.facebook.com/acvforyou or Ph/text 021 27 27 912

gardening

lost & found

FOUND KITTENS & PUPPIES various places, colours and sex. Ph SPCA 07 578 0245 Found Adult Female Tabby & White Cat. Ohauiti Area. Ref: 528491

ABLE GARDENER, experienced, efficient, knowledgeable, highly qualified. Maintenance, pruning, hedges, shrubs, roses; disease/pest control, lifestyle blocks, garden renovations; design & plant. Ph Tita 027 654 8781 or a/h 542 0120 HANDYMAN HOME & GARDEN SERVICES tree pruning, weeding, hedges, water blasting, home maintenance, rubbish removal at affordable rates Ph Philip 027 655 4265

Found Adult Female Tabby Cat. Welcome Bay Area. Ref: 528239 Found Adult Female Black & White Cat. Ohauiti Area. Ref: 527725

trades & services

BRYCE DECORATING interior and exterior painting, wallpapering. Have your powdercoated windows faded? Can be cleaned and restored like new! Plastic car bumpers faded? Can be restored too! Quality work. Showroom finish. Ph Wayne 021 162 7052

trades & services

BUILDER AVAILABLE repair maintenance, decks, pergolas, fences, all housing work. Ph Roger 022 121 3356 DECKS, FENCES, shade pergolas, small home maintenance and alterations. Pensioner rates, no GST. Ph 02 186 2523 or 027 280 1015 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, rubbish, palm pruning or removal, satisfaction guaranteed free quote. Ph Steve Hockly 027 498 1857

travel & tours

#ZEALANDIER TOURS. DECEMBER –3rd– Resolution Retreat with lunch –5th– Ohaupo Tree Church and Lunch –8th– The Cave- Join us for a surreal experience–Give us a call for more information Zealandier Tours Ph 572 4118 NO 8 TOURS New Zealand’s Senior Travel Club- Join our Club today to receive all our VIP Members Benefits exclusive to No 8 Tours & receive our complimentary

beautiful colour catalogue. We specialise in carefully curated tours with bespoke itineraries, modern reliable vehicles, friendly guides & comfortable modern accommodation. 7 Days 13-19th Jan 2022 East to West-a Heartland Journey 3 Days- 14th-16th Jan 2022 Wild Horses of Kaimanwa 1 Day 18th Jan 2022 Lake Tarawera Cruise- Free Door to Door service, Extended Tours, Day Trips, Shows. BOOK NOW:Ph. No8 Tours team on 579 3981 or email admin@ no8tours.co.nz or visit www. no8tours.co.nz to view and book all our tours.

venues

WEDDINGS, PARTIES, MEETINGS, etc. The perfect venue. With stunning Harbour views, fully licensed bar & kitchen onsite. Restaurant open every Friday from 5pm & Sunday from 4.30pm, kids under 12 years dine free with every paying adult. Tauranga Fish & Dive Club, 60 Cross Rd, Sulphur Point. Ph 571 8450

what’s on

‘LETS GO’ RELEASE CONCERT Live Celeste Music/Dance. Mount Community Hall Dec 4 2.30pm/6.00pm. $10-$5 or $20 family. Bookings 0210 841 0697 celeste.music8@gmail.com

Churches Active In Our Community In the beginning Elohim (God) declared: “Let there be light.” Yeshua (Jesus) said: “I am the light of the world.” It is wonderful and exciting that God instituted and encouraged so many amazing festivals to honour Him. These begin with the Shabbat (Friday sundown to Saturday sundown - Sabbath). It shows He is a God of celebration. As disciples (Jews and Gentiles) of Yeshua the Messiah, who is Jewish, we follow only the festivals He celebrated and this includes the beautiful Jewish Festival of Hanukkah. Hanukkah, the Hebrew word for dedication, is an eight-day festival about a dedicated people who refused to compromise on God’s Word nor allow desecration of His name and were prepared to stake their lives on it. Today, the world around us is demanding that we compromise the Word of God to suit their comfort and world view. As we observe Hanukkah, we remember that we are to stand strong against the forces of compromise as the world darkens. How dedicated are you to the one who gave his life for you? And how will people around you know you are servants and disciples of the living one true God if you have love for one another (fellow believers) and are prepared to lay down our lives for each other. We are called to be salt and light. These testing, challenging times will prove whether Yeshua lives in us or not. We all need miracles at times. In the rededication of His temple, there was only

enough oil to keep the Menorah shining for one, yet it lasted for an entire eight days, enough time to produce more oil. The greatest miracle we all need is to be born again, making sure we have enough of the oil of the Holy Spirit until Yeshua returns. While you wait, be real, expressing the love and ways of Yeshua to all who will listen. Celebrate with us and let His light shine. By the way, we celebrate Yeshua’s (Jesus) birth 15 days before Pesach (Passover). Joel van Ameringen, senior overseer, Beth-El Messianic Family. For more information, please contact Joel via: info@BethEl.org.nz Joel van Ameringen, senior overseer, Beth-El Messianic Family

ST COLUMBA 502 Otumoetai Rd www.stcolumba.co.nz

Tauranga Churches ST JAMES Cnr Devon St & Pooles Rd Rev. Philipp Potgieter Church Office: 541 2182 10am Service

EVANS RD COMMUNITY CHURCH, PAPAMOA 30 Evans Road Phone 574 6190 10am Family Service Rev. Iain Dickson

ST PETERS Cnr Cameron Rd & Spring St www.stpeters.org.nz Phone 578 9608 Rev. Mike Uttley 8.30am Reflective Service 10am Contemporary Service ST ENOCHS 134 16th Avenue www.stenochs.org.nz

Phone 578 3040 Rev. Jaco Reyneke 9.30am Morning Worship

Phone 576 6756 Pastor Alec Wallis office@stcolumba.co.nz 9.30am Worship Service BETHLEHEM COMMUNITY CHURCH 183 Moffat Rd www.bcchurch.co.nz

Phone 579 1600 9.30am Rev. Ian Pittendreigh

ST ANDREWS Cnr Macville Rd & Dee St Mt Maunganui www.mountchurch.org.nz Phone 575 9347 9am Traditional Service 10.30am Contemporary Service

Please note that under Alert Level 2, Church numbers are limited to 100 people. Individual churches may require a pre-registration for attendance, so please call or email the church office first to make your enquiry. Thank you.

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Hanukkah: the miracle of lights

Friday 26 November 2021

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