The Weekend Sun - 17 December 2021

17 December 2021, Issue 1090

Light up the night Children giggle delightedly and eye Tauranga city centre’s stunning light installations with awe.

The Strand is lined with light sculptures by acclaimed light artist Angus Muir to celebrate Christmas in the City.

Mila Kidd, pictured, had a great night checking out the displays. The nine-yearold’s favourite is the hundreds of strands of green tubing, because it resembles cold spaghetti. Not surprisingly, the installation is titled UV Spaghetti.

The display is also popular during the day, with children tangling themselves in the long strands.

A giant illuminated Christmas tree and star are just some of the spectacles to see along the waterfront.

Angus Muir’s spectacular works are a small part of what’s on offer in the city centre this Christmas, and will light up The Strand until January 5, 2022.

To find out more, turn to page 9.

Photo: John Borren.

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Friday 17 December 2021 1 The Strand, PO Box 240, Tauranga Phone 07 578 0030 www.theweekendsun.co.nz ads@thesun.co.nz newsroom@thesun.co.nz

The Weekend Sun

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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.

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Worrying about the wrong things I’m not sure where the fear of heights came from.

put all your faith in someone else and something else.

Since I was a child I’ve been scrambling The leap of faith around rocks and tramping in the So, in the end, I decide to have a go. mountains, hopping across swing What pushes me over the edge is that bridges without Sun thinking twice.

The Weekend Combined Circulation BOPenvisage Times plummeting to I just can’t We69,062 even circulation built a four-storey treehouse of NZME my death 10,162incirculation a crater of ferns – excited in a silver birch. fantails waiting to guide me to the In my teenage years I’d pop down final destination. to the aerodrome across the road in BOP Times, Katikati Advertiser Combined It’s a short drive to the forest and one the Mount and0030 hitch rides on theand Te Puke Times is p: 07 578 of ourcirculation guides, Sean, reassures us that the tow planes that took the gliders up. I less than HALF with only 32,138 in total. e: ads@thesun.co.nz most dangerous part of the trip is over. craved the sensation of falling and weightlessness you get when the plane dives after releasing the glider.

Somehow, over the last 20 or 30 years, things changed. Maybe it’s the job – I mean you rarely get called upon to cover adventures that end as planned, without a glitch.

I’ve only been to Queenstown three times – two of those trips were for coroner’s inquests.

Nowadays, the thought of standing too close to the edge fills me with a creeping terror. I can’t even watch rock climbers on TV without tensing up. Those people who hang off things with one hand, high up in the air, just makes the skin crawl.

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A firm ‘no’

So when I got the chance to do a Rotorua Canopy Tour zipline it was a definite ‘no’, even though it looked amazing. Come to think of it, the flying fox was one of my favourite activities when I was younger – the longer and higher the better.

I do make myself do stupid and terrifying things sometimes. My daughter loves all the roller coasters and death-defying contraptions at amusement parks, so I do them all too.

I still shudder when I recall the Stratosfear at Rainbow’s End. What really gets me is the thought that just one thing needs to malfunction and it’s all-over Red Rover. At least in one of those little planes you can still land if the motor runs out.

I think that’s the key – being able to rationalise the whole thing, be comfortable with the process and then

To my ears, that just means the rest of the trip is going to be terrifying.

Nevertheless, we set off, with the little pully system on our harnesses clanking as we walk up higher into the forest.

There are a few stops to talk about the birds and the plants and serial killer stoats, in between the adventurous bits.

It turns out it’s not so bad – the forest below is green and thick; the tops of the trees give a false sense of being closer to the ground.

After a few ziplines and swing bridges, our two guides and three of my

colleagues are standing on a platform halfway up a 1000-year-old rimu, 22 metres off the ground.

There’s a staircase to nowhere that we are supposed to walk backwards down before stopping to pose for a photo and then stepping off into nothing.

“Is that your best smile?” asks Stacey, the other guide.

I feel like it was an appropriate smile for someone about to throw themselves off a platform, however I found another version of a smile for the camera and then stepped back into space.

Hurtling down 200-odd metres of zipline is exhilarating and I land with the grace of a swan – albeit one that has had a run-in with a microlight.

Stay safe

By the last swing bridge, I’m hanging back off the rope and then trying to flip upside down on the last zipline. Tom Cruise has got his Burj Khalifa moment, and I’ve always got the time I lost my inhibitions in a virgin forest.

The next day, driving from Pāpāmoa to Rotorua, we come to those annoying road works traffic lights that only let five cars through before holding everyone up for another 10 minutes. It’s red, there’s eight cars in front and the car behind us decides to pass everyone and race through anyway. They must have made it because there was no wreckage when we finally went through.

I think I’ve been worrying about the wrong things. I’d rather plummet headfirst into a silver fern than die doing something as mundane as driving.

Stay safe these holidays and have fun while you’re at it.

There’s so much to do right here in our daniel@thesun.co.nz own backyard.

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.

Tom Cruise’s underwater stunt in the fifth Mission: Impossible movie, Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation, was shot in one long take, with Cruise holding his breath for over six-and-a-half minutes. It was shot in a giant tank set filled with 20 feet of water.

The Weekend Sun

Friday 17 December 2021

3

A wish come true

Wish 4 Fish manager Tony Pearce is thrilled to have the boat on the water. Photo: John Borren.

The Wish 4 Fish vessel gleams brightly at her mooring, the sun glinting off her fresh paint.

The 18m catamaran is no ordinary boat - it is purpose built to provide the more than one million New Zealanders living with illness and disability access to the ocean.

After more than a year of construction, Wish 4 Fish has been launched and is ready for summer.

Floating the boat is a dream realised for Bryce Dineen, who envisaged Wish 4 Fish whilst lying on his back in the Burwood Spinal Unit in 2007 after a shallow water diving accident severely damaged his spinal cord.

“It’s a massive accomplishment,” says Bryce.

“I’m pretty humbled by it. The intrinsic reward for me will be when you see those people out on the water with smiles on their faces.”

Wish 4 Fish is named after the charity Bryce started in 2011, so people like himself could experience fishing and salt water activities.

The $2.5 million dollar vessel is fully equipped with wheelchair access in mind, and has space for up to 25 people with varying levels of disabilities.

A wheelchair access lift to the fly bridge enables people to experience the ocean from the skipper’s point of view.

www.matagas.co.nz

A full-loop gantry crane allows bathroom access for all levels of wheelchair users, while hospital beds for overnight trips are a possibility, although most excursions will span half-a-day.

The fishing equipment has been designed by project manager Ray Lowe for people with all levels of disability.

There are electric rod holders to enable independent angling and a fully automated rod for those with limited mobility.

Television screens on the fly bridge and main deck are hooked up to 30x zoom cameras to show dolphins playing in the bow wave and other marine life they encounter.

Wish 4 Fish manager Tony Pearce says the wheelchair is the king or queen of the vessel.

He says things like rushing to the side of a boat to see marine life is something able-bodied people take for granted, so to have screens gives everyone a true seagoing experience.

“You have to go out on the water to witness what we call the magic moments,” says Tony.

“A day out on the water can bring so much joy and provide lifelong memories.”

Wish 4 Fish has 200 beneficiaries booked for trips in December, which are free of any charge.

For information about trips, or to donate, visit: www.wish4fish.co.nz Alisha Evans

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Friday 17 December 2021 A selection of local breaking stories featured this week on...

The Weekend Sun

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School relief staff “very tight”

The only local daily news source you need, constantly updated, seven days a week

www.sunlive.co.nz News tips ph

0800 SUNLIVE

Testing times

The Bay of Plenty District Health Board have acknowledged any stress caused to residents who have experienced delayed Covid-19 test results.

Covid-19 incident controller Trevor Richardson says results are generally available within 48 hours from receipt of the sample at the lab, depending on testing volumes.

“It should be noted that samples of close contacts of cases and high-risk individuals are prioritised by laboratories. Negative results will be sent via text and Public Health Unit will contact individuals for positive results.”

Information on financial support while awaiting results is available on the Unite against Covid-19 website.

Gates memorial

One hundred years after the lives of young Tauranga men who were killed in the First World War were first honoured, the city is remembering them once more.

Council is commemorating them with a new interpretation panel at the Tauranga Domain Memorial Gates, which were officially opened on December 11, 1921.

A collection of posters in the city centre titled ‘More than a name’ – will also put faces to the names of some of the men who lost their lives serving their country.

There is also a ‘Together we remember’ display in the Ngā Wāhi Rangahau research room at Tauranga Library, which provides more details about the memorial and showcases connected items.

Western Bay of Plenty Principal’s Association president Suzanne Billington.

Photo: John Borren.

Some children have finished the school year without the teacher they started with because of government vaccine mandates.

Western Bay of Plenty Principal’s Association president Suzanne Billington says some students are missing their teacher at what would normally be a time of celebration.

“At this stage of the year, most students will have celebrated a great year with their usual teacher,” she says.

“In many cases that’s happened, but for some students, it's difficult to do that without the teacher they've had all year.”

Suzanne says schools have worked hard to make sure children with a relief teacher were settled and learning until the end of the school year.

The mandate requires anyone working in an education setting to have had their first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine

by November 15, and their second by January 1. Those who have not had a vaccination can no longer work in an education setting.

After receiving feedback from schools throughout the region, Suzanne admits relief staff numbers are “very tight” as relievers are being used to cover normal teaching positions.

“That means for normal relief for things like sickness, it is quite hard to find those people.”

Suzanne, who is the principal at Tauriko School, says she’s lucky because all of her staff are vaccinated.

“Classes are settled and functioning well here, as they are in other schools too.”

Despite requests by The Weekend Sun, the Ministry of Education was unable to provide information about the number of staff that have left since vaccine mandates came into force.

They have, however, provided nondefinitive vaccination data.

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Crash investigation

Police have launched an investigation after a woman died in a collision on Chapel Street earlier this month.

She has been named as 65-year-old Maree Annis Geary of Otūmoetai.

Emergency services were called just after 5pm on Wednesday, December 8.

Initial indications suggest three vehicles were involved.

One person was found in a serious condition and another in a moderate condition.

One other person was treated at the scene.

Police serious crash analysts are still in the early stages of the investigation and the exact cause is yet to be determined.

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Border exceptions

Hundreds of specialist tech and agricultural workers will be allowed to travel to New Zealand under new border exception rules.

Software and application programmers, ICT managers, ICT security specialists and multimedia specialists will be welcomed to help meet demand that can’t be matched domestically.

The government has also approved border class exceptions for some agricultural jobs, including 200 mobile plant machinery operators, 40 shearers and 50 wool handlers.

For the Bay of Plenty, 96.2 per cent of registered teachers have been vaccinated and, as of 2020, there are 4310 teachers in state and state-integrated schools in the region.

This means around 164 teachers are unvaccinated at present.

Ministry operations and integration leader Sean Teddy says they asked school leaders for aggregate information on vaccination data.

Around 84 per cent of schools in the Bay of Plenty have responded to the Ministry’s request.

“This is not a mandated process, as we are not the employer of teachers,” says Sean. “The information collected isn’t definitive.”

Prior to the mandates, the Western Bay of Plenty Principal’s Association surveyed schools in the region.

It was revealed they were potentially losing between five to 20 per cent of their staff.

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The Weekend Sun

Friday 17 December 2021

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since vaccine mandates PPTA president Melanie Webber.

Busy month for rescue helicopters The TECT Rescue Helicopter and Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter completed a combined total of 18 missions to the Coromandel during the month of November – more than double what was carried out the previous month.

Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter crew carried out a total of 53 missions, with 15 of these being to the Coromandel. Thames Hospital was

the most visited out of 30 total interhospital transfers completed.

“Your rescue crews continuously assist patients in and around the Coromandel regions all year round,” says a spokesperson.

“Kiwi beaches like Whangamatā, Waihī and Whitianga are common hotspots for families who can rest assured knowing their rescue helicopter will be there for them.”

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Oropi School principal Andrew King.

The association represents more than 60 schools from Whakatāne to Waihī.

Suzanne knew of three schools that could be losing half of their staff, with three or four retaining all of their workforce.

She says she is unaware of the number of staff schools may have lost since the mandates came into force, and that it is “very much a private process”, with each school working through it with staff members individually.

“It is highly confidential, so people really can’t talk about the detail of that.”

Post Primary Teachers’ Association president Melanie Webber didn’t want to speculate on numbers “as people can change their minds depending on circumstances”.

“Field staff are helping their members explore their options, and negotiating on their behalf with school management to get the best outcomes for them,” says Melanie.

NZEI Te Riu Roa president Liam Rutherford says those not vaccinated at present represent a “very small number” of their 50,000 members.

“NZEI Te Riu Roa will work with unvaccinated

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members who request assistance, to ensure that any employment processes resulting from noncompliance with the vaccination mandate are conducted fairly,” he says.

Oropi School principal Andrew King says the vaccine mandate has received a “mixed, but generally very positive” reaction at the school.

“It’s very complex because you’re managing a variety of perceptions; everything from mask wearing to parents on site, to unvaccinated views and vaccinated views,” says Andrew.

“It’s a really complex matter to deal with, but in terms of the mandate and staffing it’s been as smooth as can be expected when navigating new territory.”

Andrew didn’t want to go into numbers of staff who aren’t working because of the mandate.

He says their jobs are open until January 1, when the requirement is they are fully vaccinated.

Suzanne says the next challenge is to work through what the traffic light system looks like for schools, and managing any Covid cases that arise in educational settings.

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The Weekend Sun

6

Bay Venues announce vax pass requirement Bay Venues have announced they now require vaccination passes for all of their facilities in accordance with the Covid-19 Protection Framework.

CEO Chad Hooker says the decision was made for the wellbeing of their staff, the wider community and the local health system.

“Many of our facilities are complex, interconnected spaces and it’s inevitable that a range of people will mix with each other in common areas,” says Chad.

“The most practical way to manage the spread across all of these environments, and to ensure the wellbeing of our staff and customers, is to apply a consistent approach based on the lowest risk to all.

Trustpower Arena.

“This approach is also supported by risk assessments that were undertaken internally.”

Chad says it’s important to highlight that under the Covid-19 Protection Framework, public facilities can choose to operate with My Vaccine Pass requirements.

“It’s important for residents to know that we can choose these requirements and we have done so based on the current information available to us.

“The rules for Covid-19 continue to change rapidly and regularly.

“We are monitoring developments closely and will update our dedicated web page and communicate directly with our customers if anything changes in future.”

Bay Venues entry requirements, as a Tauranga City Council organisation, are in line with council’s approach to their other public facilities, including the city’s four libraries.

Commission chair Anne Tolley says the vaccination entry requirement has been made to protect the community by limiting opportunities for Covid-19 to spread.

“In making this decision there were many factors to consider,” says Anne.

“We want to keep facilities open to everyone, but we also have a responsibility to keep our people safe and protect the public.

“Libraries and community facilities attract a significant number of people who are vulnerable to the Covid-19 virus, and after consideration and a risk assessment, we believe this is the right approach to take.”

The vaccination requirement is also aligned with other large cities across New Zealand who are also requiring My Vaccine Passes for entry into their public facilities.

For up-to-date information, visit: www.bayvenues.co.nz/covid-19

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The Weekend Sun

Friday 17 December 2021

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Hon Jan Tinetti Labour List MP

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

Authorised by Hon Jan Tinetti MP, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

New beds for Bay health board Funding of $15.14 million has been approved for the expansion of intensive care unit and high-dependency unit facilities in the Bay of Plenty.

This means an increase of six beds in Tauranga – two in ICU beds and four in HDU. “We’re thrilled that our bid for expanding our Bay of Plenty ICU facilities has been supported by the Ministry of Health,” says Bay of Plenty District Health Board CEO Pete Chandler.

“With our population growth, this is now a critical need for the Bay, serving both the potential needs of Covid patients and our elective major surgery and medical emergency patients as well.”

The board’s acting chief operating officer, Bronwyn Anstis, says the announcement will be very much welcomed by clinical staff.

“The constrained capacity of ICU and HDU beds has been an area of concern,” says Bronwyn.

“Of course, additional capacity will require appropriately skilled additional staffing resource, and the requirements of this are being worked through.

“For patients this is great news, as it will mean that less patients requiring ICU level care will be required to be transferred out of area in those times of peak demand.”

The Bay of Plenty’s two main hospital centres, Tauranga and Whakatāne, have intensive care units run as combined critical care units. Tauranga ICU has six beds and four high dependency unit beds. Whakatāne Acute Care unit has two beds available for intensive care patients.

The health board serves a population of

approximately 255,110, according to their 2020 Annual Report. That figure is split between 199,751 served by Tauranga Hospital and 55,359

by Whakatāne.

The Bay of Plenty has experienced a significant and sustained growth in population over the last few years, and this has resulted in a paralleled increased demand on health services and facilities, says Bronwyn.

“Frequently this means that our ICU and HDU facilities are at, or near, capacity. Additionally, the presence of Covid in our community means that there will be increased demand for this level of healthcare for some.

“This expansion to ICU and HDU is very timely and welcomed.”

Work has been underway since October to upgrade wards as part of the pandemic response for the Bay of Plenty.

“With the current works to upgrade our facilities underway, confirmation of this further investment at this point is extremely helpful and will allow those necessary work schemes to continue seamlessly together,” says Pete.

“This is great news for the communities we serve.”

“I would encourage all those who have not been fully vaccinated yet to take up the opportunity, so we can continue providing this level of care to all who need it,” says Bronwyn.

“Vaccination works, and is highly effective if people have both doses. That means if you do catch Covid-19, you’re far less likely to fall seriously ill and less likely to need ICU/HDU level care.”

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Friday 17 December 2021

The Weekend Sun

8

Building our future on Cameron Road, Te Papa.

BRE STEWART Cameron Road cyclist

Here’s what we’re building.

Acknowledging tangata whenua connections to the land.

Landscaping & native tree planting.

Creating more public spaces.

Room for outdoor street dining.

Five new signalised pedestrian crossings.

Two-way cycle lane.

Designated peak-hour bus lanes.

Improved street lighting & safer footpaths.

Better access for everyone.

Three new sets of traffic lights at key intersections.

Upgrading 100-year-old sewer pipes.

Existing traffic lanes retained.

We’re making Cameron Road more accessible, safer and attractive for everyone.

WAVE20048

www.tauranga.govt.nz/cameronroad

The Weekend Sun

Friday 17 December 2021

9

Christmas in the city From my family to yours I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year!

Best wishes, Simon Bridges MP for Tauranga Mila Kidd, 9, loves the light displays on The Strand.

35a Third Avenue, Tauranga 3110 taurangamp@parliament.govt.nz 07 577 0923

Photo: John Borren.

A collection of world class light sculptures and giant-sized Christmas decorations are bringing liveliness to Tauranga city centre this month.

“The Christmas in the City project, which includes a wonderland of illuminated installations in Tauranga’s CBD alongside decorations and events, provides the perfect backdrop for residents and visitors to celebrate Christmas in our city centre,” says Tauranga City Council arts and culture manager James Wilson.

Some of light artist Angus Muir’s installations along The Strand include brightly-lit stacked baubles, titled Shishkaboi, strands of UV spaghetti and illuminated multi-coloured triangles.

“Angus Muir is renowned for creating some of the most incredible light-focussed installations in New Zealand and abroad,” says James.

“It’s exciting for Tauranga City Council to bring these striking installations to the city centre and to see them spark joy with the public as they interact with them.”

Also in the mix of inner-city festivities is the Trustpower Toi Tauranga large scale Hononga exhibition on The Strand.

“As people, we are connected through place,

culture, relationships and experiences,” says Tauranga Mainstreet manager Millie Pidwell.

“We are enriched, we share a bond.

“The Trustpower Hononga exhibition of magnificent UNO Magazine images celebrates our people and their connection to all that matters.”

Visitors to the city centre can also enjoy a giant gingerbread house in Red Square, large lit boxed Christmas presents and crackers, and a gingerbread hunt for kids.

Millie says they have focussed on creating a safe inner-city environment.

“We have a beautiful open-air city centre and an abundance of things to see and do for Christmas, all safely within social distancing restrictions.”

There’s colouring activities for kids, a rock hunt and entertainment over the festive season to add to the magical spirit of Christmas, says Millie.

James says Christmas in the City is about creating enriching and exciting experiences for all.

“There are a lot of events and activities happening in our city centre in the lead up to Christmas and through summer, and we want to encourage our community to come in, soak up the festivities and enjoy themselves.”

The installations and exhibition are on display until January 5, 2022.

Authorised by Simon Bridges, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.

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M 027 232 1535 | DD 07 542 2550 E rachel.cole@harcourts.co.nz Find out more downtowntauranga.co.nz

Friday 17 December 2021

The Weekend Sun

10

A takeaway on Christmas Day Government stuck at the traffic lights

With Christmas only a week away, St Peters in the City is reaching out to help share some festive spirit.

For the past 32 years, the church has held a free community Christmas Day dinner, inviting the public to have a meal and meet new people.

Due to Covid-19, things are a bit different this year. Instead of a sit down dinner, the church is providing

250 takeaway meals to those in need.

Community Christmas dinner coordinator Julz Mariner says this year is going to be the largest yet, with demand growing since last year.

The dinner will be held at St Peters in the City, 130 Spring Street, Tauranga. To receive a meal, call: 07 578 9608. To volunteer or donate food, visit: www.stpeters.org.nz

I want to touch on the government’s handling of Covid-19, since its re-emergence in the community in August in the form of the Delta variant.

While the government duly received some credit for its Covid response the first time around, its handling this time around has been underwhelming.

Firstly, the downsides of the Labour government’s restrictive approach to Covid have outweighed the upsides.

For instance, some of the consequences of the restrictive lockdowns - that we know of so far include the many Kiwis who’ve had surgeries and critical health screening delayed, kids who haven’t been at school, the thousands of businesses who’ve gone to the wall, and people separated from dying loved ones.

Secondly, we’re now a couple of weeks into the new traffic light system and it’s still about as clear as mud to me and many of my constituents and our local businesses too. My simple view is one of two things is likely to happen over the summer period - either New Zealand will become a temporary police state, with police looking here, there and everywhere for proof of vaccine certificates, or the response will completely fall by the wayside as Kiwis struggle to understand the unclear and constantly moving goalposts.

What was needed instead was a clear, simple plan - while supercharging vaccinations - which would’ve given Kiwis certainty and the opportunity

to be with family at Christmas. Instead, thousands of Kiwis stuck in Australia and other low-risk countries will be apart from family this Christmas.

Let’s not forget that much of the pain of the past four months of lockdowns and restrictions could’ve been avoided if the Labour government had moved more swiftly to procure, and thus administer, vaccines during the first half of the year when New Zealand was largely Covid-free.

Instead, our vaccine rollout was the slowest in the OECD when the Delta outbreak began.

As this is my final column for 2021, I want to wish you a very merry Christmas as you spend time with friends and family. I look forward to seeing you out and about in 2022.

Pania needs a home!

Tips for using your food scraps bin over the summer Save space in your rubbish bin and send less to landfill by using your food scraps bin this summer. If you notice your bin is a little smellier this season, try the following:

You may recognise this lovely girl. We are sad to say that Pania has been returned to us as her last adoption was not the right fit.

Pania is a two-year-old, black and white, American Bulldog cross.

Alongside her babies, she was found wandering next to a busy road.

She loves to play, cuddle and absolutely loves attention! She's a little wary of loud cars, but loves going places with her people.

Pania is up-to-date with all of her shots and is desexed, registered, microchipped, house trained and is in good health.

To find out more, please message the RRR Facebook page via: www.facebook.com/RRRCanine/

Give your food scraps bin a rinse between collections.

Our gift guide is here and made just for you, For him, for her, the whole family too.

Freeze your food scraps, then empty them into your bin near collection day.

Wrap your food scraps in a used paper towel, serviette or newspaper.

Keep your food scraps bin in a sheltered spot, away from the sun.

Line your bin with newspaper, a brown paper bag or paper towels to keep it clean. www.tauranga.govt.nz/kerbsidecollections

07 577 7000

For a clean cut Christmas

Creative gifting

PRORASO GIFT BOX $69.95

CANDLE HOLDERS $95 EACH

BAY BARBERS SHOP 23 PICCADILLY ARCADE, 44 GREY STREET

THE COLLECTION PICCADILLY ARCADE 21/43 DEVONPORT ROAD

A collectable to cherish

For someone special

HOPSCOTCH COLLECTABLE DOLL LEXIE $45.90

9CT YELLOW GOLD, OPAL, AND DIAMOND BANGLE WITH ENGLISH HALLMARKS $1,300

INDELIBLE GIFTWARE 39 DEVONPORT ROAD

COLONIAL ANTIQUES 129 WILLOW STREET

For all your Christmas shopping visit www.downtowntauranga.co.nz

The Weekend Sun

Friday 17 December 2021

11

Give your home a makeover, without the DIY. Great range, great brands, now with Airpoints.

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Friday 17 December 2021

12

The Weekend Sun

Meow’s the time to foster There may be no room at the inn for many at-risk animals this Christmas, with volunteers’ own homes “bulging” with an influx of rescued pets in Tauranga.

Rescue, Revive, Rehome are calling for more fosters to join their ranks as they deal with one of their busiest times of the year.

“This is a really tough time for us,” says RRR secretary and feline manager Liz Proudlock.

“We are getting four or five calls a day in the feline division alone of kittens being dumped.”

Liz tells the heart wrenching story of a box of kittens dumped in Te Puke earlier this month. The box was eventually hit by a car with just one kitten surviving, and all just metres from the vets.

“It was just down the road,” Liz laments. “They only had to walk down the road and deliver them.

“It is just endless - continuous cats and kittens and puppies being dumped and dropped at this time of year.”

RRR does not have a facility. Instead, they rely on fosters taking poorly pets into their own homes.

“We just have such a shortage of houses where we can put these animals,” Liz explains.

“They’re our own homes, as volunteers are already bulging.”

Clair Batley’s home is one such at-capacity location. Clair, who leads the feline team of RRR with Liz, adopted a puppy from RRR three years ago. Soon she started fostering and it “snowballed” from there.

Currently she has a spare room which has been repurposed into a cat hospital, such is the influx of felines at this time of year.

“We rely on fosters 100 per cent,” says Clair.

“We can’t take animals in without foster homes. We have so many followers and supporters, but I don’t think it is well known that we don’t have a facility.

“We are just doing what we can, when we can. We always need more fosters on board.”

Whilst Clair admits it can be an “emotional rollercoaster”, the rewards can be plentiful. “It is hard, but we have some amazing success stories.”

Anyone interested can fill in an application form via: www.rrr.org.nz/foster/ Mathew Nash

Clair Batley’s home is full to the brim with kittens for Christmas.

Photo: John Borren.

Sprinklers and irrigation systems are a no-go from December to March but handheld hoses with a trigger nozzle are A-okay for an hour between 7pm and 10pm. Buckets and watering cans are all good too.

The Weekend Sun

Pets are for life, not just for Christmas A new puppy or kitten might seem like the purr-fect Christmas present, but people need to consider the longterm needs of their loveable new gift.

“Adopting a pet is a big commitment and it’s a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly,” says SPCA Bay of Plenty area manager Sue Kinsella.

“If you are planning to give someone a pet this Christmas, make sure it’s something they really want and have planned for, and that they are able to care for the animal for the entirety of its life.”

When adopting a pet, people need to consider how they will meet the animal’s physical and mental needs, and the cost of doing so.

This includes everything from food, regular veterinary care, vaccinations, worming, flea treatments, exercise and any unexpected trips to the vet in case of illness or an accident.

Other things to think about when adopting or gifting animals is that pets are for life - they’ll be part of the family for up to 20 years.

Pets need training, care and attention, while dogs also require extensive training and daily exercise.

For those who are renting, having an animal can make it harder to find a home, with most rentals having a ‘no pets’ policies.

Friday 17 December 2021

13

Liquefaction maps for Western Bay

All residents in the Western Bay of Plenty can now access new liquefaction maps online.

The maps are available on Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s website and show where ground damage from liquefaction is possible, unlikely or yet to be determined.

Liquefaction can occur during an earthquake and causes soils, such as sand and silt, to act more like a liquid than a solid.

Earthquake shaking moves the sand and silt in wet soil underground and forces water to the surface, taking silt and sand with it.

“It’s always important to adopt responsibly, no matter what time of year you’re considering welcoming a pet into your family.

“I wouldn’t encourage people to surprise a friend with a kitten under the tree, but if you’ve been planning to adopt, have done your research and are prepared to welcome a new family member, then Christmas could be a lovely time to adopt.”

SPCA has processes in place to ensure a good match between personalities, energy levels and lifestyles and to make sure animals are adopted into responsible, forever homes.

Fortunately, the charity doesn’t see an influx of animals being surrendered or returned after the holiday season, which indicates most people have thought carefully before taking on the responsibility of a pet, says Sue. Visit: www.spca.nz if you’re looking to adopt a pet for Christmas, where you’ll find advice about picking the right pet and the things you should consider when preparing to welcome a new furry family member.

l a k esi de r eti r em e n t i n mou n t m au nga n u i. set a mongst t r a n qu i l pa r k l i k e g r ou n d s a n d p r i va t e l a k e s , a r a n g e of s pa c iou s mode r n v i l l a s h av e b e e n de s ig n e d t o c r e a t e a v i b r a n t r e t i r e m e n t c o m m u n i t y.

Stage three villas are selling now. 242 Grenada Street, Mount Maunganui.

phone 07 262 0191

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pa c i f i c l a k e s . c o . n z

In this process the ground loses strength and stiffness. It can tilt, sink and cause damage to property, buildings and infrastructure such as roads, pipes and tanks.

“These maps help us to build a picture of what places, properties and infrastructure could be affected by liquefaction in the event of a large, one-in-500-year earthquake,” says council’s group manager for policy, planning and regulatory services, Rachael Davie.

For more information visit: westernbay.govt.nz/liquefaction or call: 0800 926 732.

Friday 17 December 2021

14

The Weekend Sun

Tauranga student’s app wins two awards A Tauranga Boys’ College student has won two Priority One Young Innovator Awards for his inventive work developing and perfecting an app to enhance his school’s CRM system.

At the school’s recent awards ceremony, Year 12 student Michael Ren also received both the Supreme Senior winner’s award and the top Category Award for Creativity.

Originally from China, Michael arrived in New Zealand at the age of 10 in 2015 with his mother Niki.

Upon starting high school at Tauranga Boys’ College, Michael’s passion for technology came alive - despite the fact he’d never used a computer before arriving in New Zealand. “I became obsessed with programming when I was 14, and started teaching myself,” says Michael.

“At school the next year I did a design course, which got me interested in design and digital art.”

His motivation to create his awardwinning app came from seeing his own parents struggle to understand Michael’s NCEA academic results on the school’s CRM system.

Realising that people needed display formats other than tables to understand results and track students’ progress, Michael set about creating what would become Insightz - an app that converts grade data into easy-to-understand graphs and visual aids.

Now in its third version, the app provides rank score and weighted GPA calculations, NCEA progress (endorsement) tracking across multiple year levels, and a variety of graphs to help students understand their current progress and what they should be aiming for in upcoming assignments to maximise Tauranga Boys’ College student Michael Ren, pictured their performance and academic goals. with his mum Niki, won two awards for his work.

Priority One’s Young Innovator Awards aim to inspire and build the development Michael has undertaken,” says next generation of New Zealand innovators, and Cucumber CEO Rob Ford.

Bay of Plenty students were challenged to come “What stuck with us most was his understanding up with a unique innovation that could make the of his target market and the problem to be solved. world a better place.

“That is ultimately what separates great There were 417 entries in this year’s competition, technology from that of the pack.” all of which were judged by top New Zealand and For Michael, the Young Innovator Awards are international innovators. a leaping-off point for what he hopes is an Michael became the first international student exciting future career. He plans to use his to win the awards. As the Supreme Senior learnings from his time at Tauranga Boys’ winner, Michael received $2000 in prize money College, as well as his unique international and a formal internship with local technology experience having lived in two different company Cucumber. countries, to further his technology career.

Jordan Boyd “We were all so impressed with the software

The Weekend Sun

15

Friday 17 December 2021

Friday 17 December 2021

A newly opened, eye-catching gallery in the fast growing arts precinct that is the Tauranga Historic Village has local artists and passers-by buzzing.

“The Artist Window Gallery is a new initiative,” says The Incubator Creative Hub director Simone Anderson.

“Continuing with its purpose to grow and support a vibrant community of artists, the kaupapa of

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this new gallery is to develop a collective working model to enhance professional development and profiles among fine artists in our region.”

The new gallery will be a professional platform for painters, sculptors and jewellers, and will firmly align with The Incubator’s intention of working with the art sector and not for it.

“Artists will represent the collective through volunteer days and have the opportunity to be the ‘artist in the window’, painting and working to demonstrate their practice to passers-by.”

Both The Artist Window Gallery and The Pot House Ceramics Gallery and Studio received a blessing by kaumātua Tamati Tata of Ngāi Tamarāwaho at an early morning ceremony attended by The Incubator Creative Hub team, resident artists, Tauranga City Council staff and Commissioner Bill Walmsley.

The Pot House ribbon was cut by Tauranga Historic Village manager Blair Graham, and the ribbon to The Artist Window Gallery was cut by Tauranga City Council arts and culture manager James Wilson. “Alongside the Pot House, the list of initial artists whose work will be displayed in The Artist Window Gallery is a great indication of the quality

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Simone Anderson at The Artist Window Gallery. Photo: John Borren.

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The Weekend Sun

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and creativity that will be available for sale through the new gallery,” says James.

It will offer premium art work for sale by artists such as Sue McDougall, Nick Eggleston, Constanza Briceño, Lynette Fisher and others.

Simone says that people visiting the Historic Village will see an artist at work through the window, providing them with a valuable interactive experience.

They will be able to browse the variety of paintings, sculptures, jewellery and other art pieces on display.

“The Artist Window provides opportunities for creative expression and artistic celebration by interaction between artists and the community,” says Simone. “It is the new go-to place to purchase and experience authentic high-quality local and original art.

“The addition of this stunning gallery at the entrance to the village will further grow this as a destination rich with galleries, arts and cultural experiences, artisan boutiques and speciality shops, valuable community organisations and bespoke creative events.”

Established artists interested in getting involved or selling their work through the gallery can contact The Incubator Creative Hub via: Rosalie Liddle Crawford www.theincubator.co.nz

The Weekend Sun

Friday 17 December 2021

17

Helping each other through COVID-19 With more cases of COVID-19 in the community, it’s possible you and your whānau will be exposed to the virus. To make sure you’re ready, have a plan in case you or someone in your house tests positive and needs to isolate.

Everyone who tests positive for COVID-19, and those who live with them, will need to isolate for at least 10 days to stop the spread of the virus. If someone else in your house tests positive for COVID-19, they’ll be advised how much longer they need to isolate.

Make a plan

Support while isolating

If you’re travelling and away from home, know how you will get home or self isolate where you are.

It’s normal to feel anxious about isolating with COVID-19.

While isolating, you will need to have all of your food and necessities delivered. You cannot go to work, school, church or any community or private events or gatherings. No one outside of the people you live with can visit or enter the home.

Most fully-vaccinated people with COVID-19 are likely to have a mild to moderate illness and will fully recover at home.

Who can help out Be prepared in case you’re exposed to COVID-19. Speak with a neighbour, friend, or whānau about the support you could need. For instance, dropping off food and supplies, and help with activities outside the house. Being ready is about people, conversations, connections and knowing what to do, so your whānau and community can help each other when needed.

You’ll have a support person who will contact you often to check that you and your whānau are safe and supported – even if you’re travelling and away from home. You will also get a telephone number for 24-hour health support.

If you need more help or support to manage at home, you can access a COVID-19 welfare line.

What you’ll need To help you get through, you will need to have food, medications and supplies available to you. Find a detailed checklist to help you prepare at Covid19.govt.nz/prepare

Check what support is available for self-isolating at home and find more preparation tips at Covid19.govt.nz/prepare

Friday 17 December 2021

The Weekend Sun

The Greerton Maarawaewae study 18

The Weekend Sun

4.

Tauranga City Council in partnership with Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities is looking at the future use of Crown-owned reserve land in Greerton.

The land is currently leased by the Tauranga Racing Club (34ha) and the Tauranga Golf Club (45ha). Tauranga Equestrian Sports Association and a range of other sporting and community organisations also have access to and use the land and facilities at various times.

The project team have been seeking ideas and input from mana whenua, existing users and the wider community since October on what they

believe the best use of this land is over the next 10, 20, 30 and 50 years.

The 650 plus ideas/concepts and feedback provided so far have been developed into seven options for your consideration.

The eventual outcome may be one of these options, a combination of these options, or something completely different.

Note: if the option selected by the Commissioners in April includes relocation of an existing user, further discussions will be undertaken with those organisations and user groups.

The Greerton Maarawaewae Study is seeking your input into the future use of this land so that it can benefit all the people of Tauranga and the Western Bay

New houses

1.

Road

Walking/cycling track

Potential new school

Existing schools

Connection to Kopurererua Valley & Cameron Road Existing commercial zone

Green edge

Significant cultural sites

Kopurererua Valley

• Equestrian enhanced

• Sports pavilion and outdoor sports fields, artificial turfs, netball, tennis, 3x3 basketball courts etc • Community centre with multipurpose bookable rooms

5.

• Golf course

• Enhanced connections to Kopurererua Valley - providing a link for cyclists, walkers and other green space users

Recreation reserve

• Racecourse

6.

• Some community use

• 1000 to 1500 new homes with a range of different housing types

• No walking or cycling access to Kopurererua Valley

• Enhanced connections to Kopurererua Valley - providing a link for cyclists, walkers and other green space users

Enhanced community activity combined with racecourse, golf course and equestrian use • Sportsfields/artificial turfs within the Racecourse area • Possible community centre with multipurpose bookable rooms

Valley - providing a link for cyclists, walkers • Mana whenua cultural values and narratives integrated for reserve and surrounding area • Reduced equestrian space

Community spaces and active recreation combined with golf and equestrian • Golf course • Equestrian enhanced • A destination recreation park with outdoor courts, sports fields, artificial turfs and play space • Community centre with multipurpose bookable rooms

surrounding area • Option for new school • Option for new community centre • Racecourse relocated • Equestrian relocated

• Enhanced connections to Kopurererua Valley - providing a link for cyclists, walkers • Mana whenua cultural values and narratives integrated for reserve and surrounding area • Racecourse relocated

narratives integrated for reserve and surrounding area • Option for new school • Option for new community centre • Racecourse relocated • Equestrian relocated • Golf course relocated

• Mana whenua cultural values and

7.

Enhanced community spaces, golf course, active recreation and potential health services • Golf course • Active recreation • Potential health services • Community centre with multipurpose bookable rooms

• Enhanced connections to Kopurererua

3.

• Golf course relocated

Destination park, new homes and potentially a new school • A destination parkland with active fitness trails, cycle-ways, pump track, barbecue areas, playground and community gardens

• Equestrian

• Golf course

• Racecourse relocated

Potential health services site (14ha)

Stay the way it is now (status quo)

• Racecourse

• Mana whenua cultural values and narratives integrated for reserve and surrounding area

• Mana whenua cultural values and narratives integrated for reserve and

• Golf course

2.

• Enhanced connections to Kopurererua Valley - providing a link for cyclists, walkers

Golf course, new homes and potentially a new school • 700 to 1000 new homes with a range of different housing types

Legend Vehicle access point

Community spaces and active recreation destination park combined with equestrian • A destination parkland with active fitness trails, cycle-ways, pump track, barbecue areas, playground and community gardens

Securing a future for the racecourse and golf club reserve land in Greerton

Friday 17 December 2021

19

• Mana whenua cultural values and narratives integrated for reserve and surrounding area • Racecourse relocated

• Enhanced connections to Kopurererua Valley - providing a link for cyclists, walkers and other green space users

Go to the website www.tauranga.govt.nz/greertonmaarawaewae - here you will find printable pdfs of each of the options.

Email us at: greertonmaarawaewae@tauranga.govt.nz if you have any questions.

To view printed copies of the Greerton Maarawaewae Study options – you can go to any library or Council office in Tauranga. There are also copies available for viewing at Greerton Village Mainstreet office, Le Chat Noir Café, the Tauranga Racecourse and Golf Club offices and the Western Bay of Plenty District Council head office at Barkes Corner.

Friday 17 December 2021

The Weekend Sun

The Greerton Maarawaewae study 18

The Weekend Sun

4.

Tauranga City Council in partnership with Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities is looking at the future use of Crown-owned reserve land in Greerton.

The land is currently leased by the Tauranga Racing Club (34ha) and the Tauranga Golf Club (45ha). Tauranga Equestrian Sports Association and a range of other sporting and community organisations also have access to and use the land and facilities at various times.

The project team have been seeking ideas and input from mana whenua, existing users and the wider community since October on what they

believe the best use of this land is over the next 10, 20, 30 and 50 years.

The 650 plus ideas/concepts and feedback provided so far have been developed into seven options for your consideration.

The eventual outcome may be one of these options, a combination of these options, or something completely different.

Note: if the option selected by the Commissioners in April includes relocation of an existing user, further discussions will be undertaken with those organisations and user groups.

The Greerton Maarawaewae Study is seeking your input into the future use of this land so that it can benefit all the people of Tauranga and the Western Bay

New houses

1.

Road

Walking/cycling track

Potential new school

Existing schools

Connection to Kopurererua Valley & Cameron Road Existing commercial zone

Green edge

Significant cultural sites

Kopurererua Valley

• Equestrian enhanced

• Sports pavilion and outdoor sports fields, artificial turfs, netball, tennis, 3x3 basketball courts etc • Community centre with multipurpose bookable rooms

5.

• Golf course

• Enhanced connections to Kopurererua Valley - providing a link for cyclists, walkers and other green space users

Recreation reserve

• Racecourse

6.

• Some community use

• 1000 to 1500 new homes with a range of different housing types

• No walking or cycling access to Kopurererua Valley

• Enhanced connections to Kopurererua Valley - providing a link for cyclists, walkers and other green space users

Enhanced community activity combined with racecourse, golf course and equestrian use • Sportsfields/artificial turfs within the Racecourse area • Possible community centre with multipurpose bookable rooms

Valley - providing a link for cyclists, walkers • Mana whenua cultural values and narratives integrated for reserve and surrounding area • Reduced equestrian space

Community spaces and active recreation combined with golf and equestrian • Golf course • Equestrian enhanced • A destination recreation park with outdoor courts, sports fields, artificial turfs and play space • Community centre with multipurpose bookable rooms

surrounding area • Option for new school • Option for new community centre • Racecourse relocated • Equestrian relocated

• Enhanced connections to Kopurererua Valley - providing a link for cyclists, walkers • Mana whenua cultural values and narratives integrated for reserve and surrounding area • Racecourse relocated

narratives integrated for reserve and surrounding area • Option for new school • Option for new community centre • Racecourse relocated • Equestrian relocated • Golf course relocated

• Mana whenua cultural values and

7.

Enhanced community spaces, golf course, active recreation and potential health services • Golf course • Active recreation • Potential health services • Community centre with multipurpose bookable rooms

• Enhanced connections to Kopurererua

3.

• Golf course relocated

Destination park, new homes and potentially a new school • A destination parkland with active fitness trails, cycle-ways, pump track, barbecue areas, playground and community gardens

• Equestrian

• Golf course

• Racecourse relocated

Potential health services site (14ha)

Stay the way it is now (status quo)

• Racecourse

• Mana whenua cultural values and narratives integrated for reserve and surrounding area

• Mana whenua cultural values and narratives integrated for reserve and

• Golf course

2.

• Enhanced connections to Kopurererua Valley - providing a link for cyclists, walkers

Golf course, new homes and potentially a new school • 700 to 1000 new homes with a range of different housing types

Legend Vehicle access point

Community spaces and active recreation destination park combined with equestrian • A destination parkland with active fitness trails, cycle-ways, pump track, barbecue areas, playground and community gardens

Securing a future for the racecourse and golf club reserve land in Greerton

Friday 17 December 2021

19

• Mana whenua cultural values and narratives integrated for reserve and surrounding area • Racecourse relocated

• Enhanced connections to Kopurererua Valley - providing a link for cyclists, walkers and other green space users

Go to the website www.tauranga.govt.nz/greertonmaarawaewae - here you will find printable pdfs of each of the options.

Email us at: greertonmaarawaewae@tauranga.govt.nz if you have any questions.

To view printed copies of the Greerton Maarawaewae Study options – you can go to any library or Council office in Tauranga. There are also copies available for viewing at Greerton Village Mainstreet office, Le Chat Noir Café, the Tauranga Racecourse and Golf Club offices and the Western Bay of Plenty District Council head office at Barkes Corner.

Friday 17 December 2021

20

The Weekend Sun

Living your best life by the numbers Pick a number - any number - and see how it applies to your weekend just gone by.

Numbers, when they are grouped together or put side by side usually paint a picture, and my numbers for the first few days of December lined up better than they have for the last few footy seasons, given the current climate of a word called C (a word that I am isolating from my narrative, not just for the purpose of kicking it into touch for this column, but more so for sanity’s sake).

So, here’s my numbers and how they lined up after I teamed up on the first tee of Tauranga Golf Course with my mate Mike King and his team from the I Am Hope Foundation, who were in town to talk about the topic of mental health and wellbeing for our tamariki.

3. The par of the first hole is four, but the bro shoots a three. Now that’s a birdie in golf speak and after not having hit a ball with the bro for 25 years, when we both danced to a different drummer, he smacks us all in the fairway face with a perfect drive, pitch and putt. Bugger!

2. The number of pieces my driver was left in when his buffed-up boys Tia and Terrence Trent gave it the ‘head high’ hit on the very last hole. Bugger again!

11.11. The magic Buddhist number of the day where the ears of the universe open up according to my brother to another mother, the Dalai Lama. And open up they did at the Adams High Performance Centre, when Mike talked it straight up the guts to a gym full of gentleman who had kindly given their time and their attention to tautoko the kaupapa.

It was put together by another amazing, sweet smiling community king pin, Ati Aaifou-Olive, the conductor who brought the beautiful orchestra of talent together on behalf of Bay of Plenty Rugby Union.

300,000. The number of kids that Mike and his team have talked to kanohi ki te kanohi - face to face - since the constipated system full of middlemen blew the whistle on themselves for failing to see the solution to suicide sitting right in front of them.

Or, as Mike said: “Knew nothing about how to back the ambulance up to the top of the cliff for our kids to get out of, not into.”

1. The only injury that needed the zambuck’s attention - and to the brother who found his Achilles’ heel and took one for the team, you were the player of the day.

4. Coaches, with a calibre rarely assembled. Sir Gordon Tietjens, Monsieur Vern Cotter, Ta Hika Reid and the no-nonsense Lipi Sinnott gave the game an aura of authority that was worth twice the admission fee of nothing more than two shots in the arm and a kete full of kindness towards our kids.

7. The sponsors, who came together for the kaupapa. Baia Build, Good Buzz, Te Tuinga, Body in Motion, Pacific Islands Community Trust, Local Gecko Productions and Bay of Plenty RFU can always say they were and are the foundation whānau of the first ever Mental Health Exhibition Game of rugby to support the wellbeing of our tamariki.

364. The number of days before the exhibition game for the I Am Hope foundation comes to Tauranga again, and you can bet your pension or your mokopuna’s pocket money that it will be the calendar event of December.

Zero. The amount of money that was talked about or needed over the weekend, because the I Am Hope Mental Health game was all about kaupapa and not cash.

9. The points scored by the number 14 jersey, and I don’t know what is going to be harder to live down - the birdie on the first or the gumboot conversion after the try he scored on Sir Gordon Tietjens Park, in front of Sir Titch himself.

And lastly but not least …

1. One Love. The community that plays together stays together, and the game the community played with the I Am Hope and Wasps team went a long way to feeding the ball of self believe back into the scrambled scrum our kids’ thinking can be in.

Tommy Wilson, Hayley Hope and Mike King ready to roll out One can be a lonely number, and all I know after the teams at the Adams Centre for High Performance. living the life of lockdown since the bat and the cat bumped into each other in a Wuhan wet market is 63. The number of players who laced up and locked in one is a number that none of us need to live by before, to the kaupapa of kindness that Ati, Pat and his team during and after the C word walks on by. had put together. All Blacks, including their captain One Love whānau.

Sam Kane, were there as was the coach and some of Tommy Wilson, chief imagination officer, his Chiefs team on the sideline.

Te Tuinga Whanau Trust

The Weekend Sun

Friday 17 December 2021

21

Getting your Covid certificate

If you do not have all of the required documents, such as a passport, driving licence or you cannot wait for a new birth certificate to arrive, or you do not have a computer or smartphone, then you might have problems setting up a My Covid Record to request a My Vaccine Pass.

In this situation you can: • Call 0800 222 478 to request a My Vaccine Pass. The line is open 8am-8pm, seven days a week. Interpreters are available if required and Relay is available for the hearing-impaired.

• Visit a vaccinating pharmacy (a pharmacy that also provides Covid-19 vaccination services). Check with them in advance and bring your NHI number. This will help identify you.

• Email: help@mycovidrecord.min.health.nz If you have an email address that only you use, your Vaccine Pass can be emailed to you (at no cost to you).

If you do not have a suitable email address, you can: • Get yourself a free email account from one of several providers, and use it to set up a My Covid Record and receive your Vaccine Pass; • Call: 0800 222 478 and ask for a My Vaccine Pass to be mailed to you.

• Visit a vaccinating pharmacy (a pharmacy that provides Covid-19 vaccinations – go to the Healthpoint website) and they will print the certificate. Check before you go, to ensure they are able to help. Take you NHI number to confirm your identity.

To contact CAB Tauranga, email: tauranga@cab.org.nz or call: 07 578 1592. Please leave a message, including an email address and telephone number, and we will get back to you.

Pharmac negotiates deal

Pharmac has negotiated an agreement with Pfizer for its promising new oral antiviral Covid-19 treatment.

While Pharmac officials retain the view that getting vaccinated is the best defence against the virus, they are pleased to have secured an additional treatment The signed agreement is for the supply of 60,000 courses.

Interim results from clinical trials were promising for those who were treated within three days of symptom onset.

Results showed that the treatment reduced the risk of hospitalisation by 89 per cent for adults with mild-to-moderate Covid-19 at high risk of progressing to severe illness.

The treatment is subject to Medsafe approval, and could be made available in 2022.

1303 Cameron Road, Greerton, Tauranga Phone: 07 578 2008 | Email: bongardspharmac y@xtra.co.nz Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:30pm .

Closed Saturday & public holidays

Merry Christmas!

Christmas hours: We will be closing at 12pm on Thursday 23 December 2021, and we will re-open again at 8.30am on Monday 10 January 2022.

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We focus on people, results, and never compromise on service.

Visit our website to find out more about our services.

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Friday 17 December 2021

The Weekend Sun

22

Churches Active In Our Community

Receiving good news this time of year We need some good news, and there is some. The Christmas story is more relevant than it’s ever been - especially against the backdrop of the world we live in now.

I never tire of the Christmas story; seeing it portrayed in dramas and children’s end-of-year presentations, or hearing the Christmas story on radio or seeing it on television. They all remind me of the wonder of the whole reason for the Christmas story – the love of God, Jesus coming

to earth, living a human life, leaving us His words of truth, the crucifixion, burial, and his triumphant resurrection.

Simply put, Jesus came for you and me.

One thing is for sure - all around the world Christmas will be celebrated in different ways in different cultures, with different environments and restrictions because of the virus.

My prayer is that we will not become distracted from our purpose, and the priority of living for the good news.

My prayer is that we will not become divided by the issues. Let’s remember to love one another as the

highest value and do all we can to preserve unity.

My prayer is that we will not become distressed at the enormity of it all.

This year we may be celebrating Christmas differently depending on where we live, but the reason is the same.

It’s about God loving us, sending Jesus, and giving us the opportunity to be forgiven and live with Him forever.

May this Christmas really be good news to you and yours.

Stephen Whitwell, C3 City Church, Tauranga.

The pre-eminence of Christ

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Last time we considered how in 700 years BC, the prophet Isaiah spoke with extreme clarity and accuracy concerning the gift of Divine grace that would be given to the world.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given,” (Isaiah 9:6), which was fulfilled when Jesus was born in Nazareth.

Today we consider the pre-eminence of this Son. In the New Testament we read: “And he is the head of the body, the church. He is la tyb the beginning,

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the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent.

“For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.” (Colossians 1:18-20).

Here we have three simple but eternally true statements about Jesus: One: Jesus Christ is the ultimate head and leader over the church; He alone governs, rules and has authority over the church (those who are His disciples and born-again followers); no human ruler or secular power has domineering authority over the church; Christ alone has that pre-eminent role.

Two: “In him the fullness of God was

pleased to dwell”; meaning, just like in the Old Testament it was God’s presence that filled and dwelt in the Temple, so in Christ all that is God dwells in Him. In other words, He is fully God – the promised Immanuel, God with us.

Three: as the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), Jesus alone is the one who defeats all sin and rebellion against God. The basis for Christ’s reign over sin, death and all rebellion is His blood on the cross, and His resurrection three days later.

Dear reader – this Christmas, the invitation is to bow the knee, humble and submit your heart to God the Son, place your faith in Him as your Lord and Saviour. “Come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!”

Richard Roodt, Redeemer Church, Tauranga.

It’s important to worship all year round One Christmas day, a Nigerian Catholic priest in Tasmania did not want to face his congregation.

Why? Because the tiny congregation strangely surged in number, and he felt the sting of the insult to the One worthy of worship all year round.

Here are 10 reasons why the wise men were very wise to worship Jesus: 1. His life and accomplishments were predicted in detail before He was born.

2. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit of God and human flesh, and is God’s Son. 3. He performed a multitude of wonderful and diverse healings, including raising the dead.

4. He demonstrated miraculous power over the

elements and nature.

5. He willingly laid down His life to reconcile humanity with God. Surely, such great sacrifice can be comprehended by us, a nation exalting sacrifice on ANZAC Day. 6. There is evidence the sky went dark for three hours the day He suffered and died for us on the cross.

7. After being raised from the dead, no-one has ever commanded so much attention and followers throughout history.

8. Historical time is divided by Him – BC and AD. 9. His following today continues to grow worldwide.

10. All of the above gives us every reason to believe He will fulfil His promise to judge the world and reward the faithful.

There is no-one like Jesus!

Attending church regularly (as opposed to twice a year at Christmas and Easter) to honour Him as He deserves is not only reasonable, but beneficial, and recognises the Bible truth that an isolated believer is like an eye saying to a hand ‘I have no need of you’.

David Kidd, Church of God’s Love.

The Weekend Sun

Friday 17 December 2021

23

How often should you have a facial?

Facial treatments are an important part of maintaining beautiful skin for a lifetime.

We can address your specific skincare concerns at a clinical level, intensively boosting your skin health and vitality.

Ideally you would have a facial every six weeks to match your skin’s natural renewal cycle.

The skin benefits of facials include regular exfoliation to prevent build up and renew a smooth skin tone, a hydration boost to plump up skin and targeted serums and concentrates to treat your skin’s unique needs.

But we know from our clients that facials go more than skin deep. Facials are a wellbeing gift women give themselves. They represent

precious ‘me-time’ to relax and unwind in the midst of a stressful life.

They offer a mini oasis; a welcome chance for women to let go of responsibilities and to be cared for in a peaceful environment.

If six-weekly facials are not feasible for your budget, aim to have one at least four times a year.

We release a facial special at the beginning of each season, using products and protocols that are matched to the season and the skin challenges it brings. Extra grooming treatments are thrown in as a bonus.

We have just released our Jamele Summer Antioxidant Facial. This luxurious Janesce facial will put you into a state of total relaxation and protect your summer skin with powerful antioxidant therapy.

This would be a beautiful seasonal facial to gift as a Jamele gift coucher this Christmas!

Buy Jamele gift vouchers at: www.jamele.co.nz

Keeping tabs on your skin this summer Summer is here New Zealand, and we are getting our clothes off – well, most of them!

It is a great time to check your own skin or get someone you know well enough to look at your skin in detail.

At Skin Spots we are accredited by the Skin Cancer College of Australasia, who produced this easy to remember guide to help you think about your own spots: we say ‘SCAN your skin’. If you have something that is Sore, Changing, Abnormal or New, please be sure to show a clinician with a qualification in

dermoscopy for their advice.

For more information about how to do a self-skin check, visit: www.scanyourskin.org or: www.skinspots.co.nz The Bay of Plenty is one of the worst places in the world for skin cancer!

Have a great summer, wear your mask, be kind and don't forget to SCAN your skin!

Being kind to others: the proof is in the pudding “Scientists have discovered the small, brave act of cooperating with another person, of choosing trust over cynicism, generosity over selfishness, makes the brain light up with quiet joy.”

Natalie Angier.

It is inspiring to read practical proof exists of the benefits we receive when we are thoughtful and generous in how we communicate with others.

Being kind and generous with our time, our encouragement and our empathy, and knowing it has a positive impact on our brain is just another reason to give without needing anything in return… perhaps especially in this season of Christmas.

The act itself is creating the reward.

What do you experience in yourself when you give generously without an agenda?

If you would like to know more about relationship or narrative coaching, phone Mary Parker, The Fast Track Coach, on: 021 258 2145, or visit: www.thefasttrackcoach.co.nz

y a d i l Ho

Friday 17 December 2021

24

The Weekend Sun

We set off on Lake McLaren at sunset.

Photo: Alisha Evans.

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Sitting in kayaks, staring at thousands of glowworms and listening to water trickle down the canyon walls, you wouldn’t think you’re only a short drive from Tauranga city centre.

The canopy of glowworm stars is in McLaren Falls Park, and the best way to see it is by doing the Waimarino evening glowworm kayak tour.

We started the tour with twilight refreshments of fruit and cheese platters near the shore of Lake McLaren.

Our guides, Josh and Hannah, gave a safety briefing then fitted us with life jackets and kayak spraydecks to keep us dry.

We pushed off as dusk set in, and the still of the evening was only broken by the sound of ducks and swans as we paddled past.

After a short kayak upstream to the mouth of the Mangapapa River, you start to see glowworms twinkling on the rocks.

Here is where we sat back and our guide took the reins. We linked kayaks and were paddled into the centre of the canyon.

Josh gave us a detailed talk about the lifecycle of a glowworm and how they eat and produce light as we took in the beauty of the night, surrounded by our glimmering hosts.

He sprinkles his chat with humour and adds his own flair, keeping us entertained and giggling.

Josh also shares the Māori story of creation, telling us that glowworms were Ranginui’s gift to Papatūānuku after they were separated.

The trip is as informative as it is fun and requires very little fitness. It is suitable for anyone aged eight and over.

Tours are in a double kayak, so you get to share

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The glowworm kayak is a unique experience. the spectacle, and if you’re on your own or in an uneven numbered group you’ll be paired with a guide or another person on the tour.

It’s a great activity for families and will make a memorable school holiday activity. For families with younger children, the tour is available in the Big Kanu.

The experience takes around three hours and you’re on the water for an hour-and-a-half.

Enjoying glowworms up close is not something I expected to be able to do in Tauranga, and it’s a night I won’t forget.

To find out more visit: glowwormkayaking.com Alisha Evans

The Weekend Sun

y a d i l Ho

Friday 17 December 2021

25

Fun in the sun at Waimarino With summer well and truly set in, enjoying the outdoors will be on everyone’s holiday wish list.

Waimarino Adventure Park offers a range of activities both in and around the water.

The Wairoa River becomes a playground, and you can even make your friends fly on New Zealand’s largest human catapult, The Blob.

A floating trampoline, hydro slide and Tarzan swing are other fun ways to hit the water and cool off.

Kayaks, paddle boards and pedalos are a great way to explore the river without getting wet, but the pedalos do have a slide if you do decide to take a dip.

There’s a rock climbing wall, low rope obstacle course and beach volleyball, while the pool is a safe way for younger children to splash around.

Owner Blair Anderson says they encourage participants of all ages and abilities to give the activities a go.

“Waimarino creates a

you’re able, and leaving as late as possible.”

The park is open 10am-6pm every day.

For more information, visit: www.waimarino.com

There’s heaps to do at the adventure park.

supportive environment where people can try new things, spend quality time with family and develop new skills.

“Bring your family, swimsuits, barbecue supplies or a picnic and make a day of it. With multiple pass options, choose a pass to suit your family. If you’re short on time, come down and rent a kayak or paddleboard by the hour.”

There are gas barbecues, picnic spots and marquees that

can be hired or included in large group bookings.

“Waimarino is a great place for families to spend some quality time together outdoors and away from their phones,” says Blair.

“The adventure park is a place for people to connect with nature, connect with family and with the wider community.

“For the best value for money and the maximum time for having fun, we recommend arriving as early as

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Friday 17 December 2021

26

The Weekend Sun

Windscreen claims and costs on the rise

With summer traffic about to ramp up across the country, AA Insurance is preparing for more windscreen claims and the costs that come with them.

AA Insurance operations GM Simon Hobbs says they typically see a rise in windscreen claims when

Kiwis are on their Christmas and New Year’s holidays.

“However, while we saw usual seasonal trends with windscreen claims increasing through December to the end of March 2021, this year it has not tapered off to the usual degree through May, June, and July.”

Over the 12 months ending June

30, 2021, AA Insurance handled more than 25,000 windscreen claims worth almost $10 million – a 20 per cent higher volume than in 2020 and 12 per cent higher than in 2019.

Average cost rising

The average cost for a windscreen is currently between $430-470, while the average cost five years ago was around $350 says Simon.

“As we head towards the summer months, it is likely people will be travelling around the country – Covid protection framework permitting – and we will see more cars on the road.

“This generally means more windscreen claims and, with the technological enhancements in modern cars, an increase in the cost of the average glass claim.

“Although New Zealand has a comparatively aging fleet of vehicles, this is gradually being replaced by newer models, which means we’ve seen an increase in the number of windscreens claims with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems technology, from seven per cent of claims to 12 per cent in the 12 months to June 30, 2021.”

A more complicated fix

In the past, fixing a windscreen was a relatively straightforward procedure, and involved simply replacing the glass. In modern vehicles, the procedure often involves recalibrating cameras or sensors and ensuring they are aligned and functioning.

As a result, a windscreen replacement could now cost up to $4000.

While AA Insurance’s main glass suppliers are having no difficulty keeping up with demand,

there are occasional exceptions where dealerships do not have windscreens available locally.

The wait time can be between six and 16 weeks thanks to Covid-related supply chain issues.

In addition says Simon, many businesses close over the summer holidays or operate with a skeleton staff, so the sooner drivers get their windscreen sorted the better.

“If you’re planning to hit the road this summer, ensure your car is in tip top condition early, including seeing to any windscreen chips and scratches.

“It’s also worth checking your insurance policy before you leave. Increasing windscreen repair complexity and costs really highlight the benefit of having the right cover for your car, such as excessfree glass cover so you don’t end up paying more than you must.

“Forward planning could save you money and time, which could be better spent with family and friends.”

The Weekend Sun

Friday 17 December 2021

27

Drunk drivers on the spot A mandatory in-car breathalyser system for high-risk motorists prevented more than 37,000 potential drunk drivers from taking to the road last year.

Alcohol interlocks became a compulsory sentence for a number of New Zealand drivers in 2018. Once installed, drivers are required to carry out a breath test before turning the key.

If the device detects alcohol above a certain level, it will prevent the vehicle from starting.

System working

The system halted 37,061 potential drunk drivers in 2020.

“Interlocks stopped more than 100 high-risk drunk drivers with alcohol in their system from being out on our roads every day in 2020,” says AA road safety spokesperson Dylan Thomsen.

“That is a staggering number – especially when you consider that there are only a few thousand interlocks in use across the country.

“The figures show once again why the AA calls interlocks the

“There is no follow-up in the current system to make sure the people who are sentenced to an interlock follow through on getting a device.

“It’s a huge loophole that needs to be urgently fixed.

“A few thousand interlocks are

stopping tens of thousands of potential drunk driving attempts a year, and we should be using them much more than we are.

“Alcohol impairment was a factor in nearly 70 fatal crashes in 2020, and we’ve stalled in making reductions in drunk driving since 2014.”

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“If there weren’t interlocks in those vehicles, those drivers would have simply turned the key and been able to put themselves and others at risk on the road again.

“Instead, the car just won’t start and there’s no risk of a crash.”

AA data does not consistently record what level of alcohol was in the driver’s system, but interlock providers say a substantial proportion of the attempts are at levels above the legal limit.

However figures obtained by the AA show that the number of

interlocks that should already be installed on New Zealand’s roads fall well short of the mark.

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Friday 17 December 2021

The Weekend Sun

28 THE WEEKEND SUN

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

No better Christmas gift than art “Why are all the artworks $113?” asked a visitor to The People’s Gallery.

Clearly that’s Christmas shopping sorted.

“How can there possibly be a better gift than art?” ask the team behind The Incubator For those who know the inside story Creative Hub. about the annual group show at the It’s a busy, vibrant time at the village, Tauranga Historic Village gallery, a with the recent opening of two smile plays out at the quirky concept new galleries, an exhibition at The that begun four years ago.

Incubator and the Community “We opened the People’s Gallery Christmas Tree display. four years ago on the 109th Doreen McNeil’s exhibition, anniversary of the building,” says Expressions, is at The Incubator The Incubator Creative Hub Creative Hub gallery until director Simone Anderson, “so we called it 109, made all the works December 22, and is open the same size and all $109. from 9am-4pm weekdays, “Every year since then it’s gone and from 10am-2pm on up a dollar and a number, so we’ve Saturdays and Sundays. reached 113 and $113 each.”

The Pot House Ceramics Gallery and The 113 show is The Incubator’s Studios, and The Artist Window Gallery annual pre-Christmas group exhibition.

Artwork on display are also open week days.

by Sabrina Fraser.

Simone says it’s been another “jam-packed The 113 Annual Group show runs until successful year”, with the gallery showcasing December 20 at The People’s Gallery, which is the art of many people and community groups. open from 10am-3pm weekdays, and from 10am-2pm “We continue our People’s Gallery tradition of on Saturdays and Sundays. offering an opportunity to artists to submit, and a chance to Gallery staff advise that the Covid-19 Protection Framework buy original and affordable artwork to keep or give away. must be respected, and includes mask-wearing, social distancing, “This exhibition is our annual fundraiser to deliver great providing a My Vaccine Pass and scanning in using the Covid app. community exhibitions in 2022.”

Watusi back next week Regular columnist Winston Watusi took a break from writing his regular column this week, but will be back at it, keeping readers across the local music scene, in next week’s paper.

Painting on display by John Baxter. Photo: Supplied.

Rosalie Liddle Crawford

Winners celebrate Pacific Music Awards

WHAT’S ON

The Pacific music community celebrated another year of outstanding music at the 17th annual Pacific Music Awards.

The big winner of the night was Jawsh 685. This year he’s celebrating three wins with APRA Best Pacific Song, the NZ On Air Radio Airplay Award and the NZ On Air Streaming Award.

Soul funk artist Lou’ana and her seven-piece band won Auckland Council Best Pacific Female Artist and Best Producer with Nathan Judd, for her debut album Midnight Madness.

Tree scooped two awards this year - one for her self-produced album Mrs Tree, that saw her take home the award for Recorded Music NZ Best Pacific Music Album, and another

SHOW UPDATED CLARA AND FRIENDS Turning Pointe Tauranga

Sun 19 Dec 10:30am, 2:30pm & 6:30pm Addison Theatre (Dance)

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Fri 04-Sat 19 Feb 7:30pm Weekend matinee 1:30pm Addison Theatre (Musical Theatre)

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25 Feb 7:30pm Addison Theatre (Comedy)

NEW DATE FOLK SESSIONS Folk Brewers

Sat 26 Feb 7pm

Addison Theatre (Music)

NEW SHOW ADDED GENTLE MAN - THE BEST OF CHRIS PARKER MDW

NEW DATE DRAG UP YOUR LIFE

X Space (Comedy)

Theatre (Drag Show)

Sun 20 Feb 5pm & 7pm

for NZ On Air Best Pacific Music Video for Afio Ane Loa, directed by Tree Manu and Quincy Filiga.

Hip hop sensation Melodownz won both of the categories he was a finalist for, with his track Fine.

He took out top spot for NZ Music Commission Best Pacific Male Artist and Base FM and Island Base Best Pacific Hip Hop Artist.

This year’s Manukau Institute of Technology Lifetime Achievement Award honoured Pacific music pioneer George ‘Fiji’ Veikoso. Fiji’s music captured hearts across the Pacific music scene with his blend of classic reggae, hip hop, RnB and jazz.

Alongside the opening performance

by Oceans Before Me, there were finalist performances by Lepani, Emily Muli and Diggy Dupe.

Kelly Fornia

Sun 27 Feb 7:30pm Addison

NEW SHOW ADDED POSTMODERN JUKEBOX - THE GRAND REOPENING TEG DAINTY & Nice Events Fri

11 & Sat 12 Mar

8pm Addison Theatre (Music)

NEW SHOW DATE DIVAS & DIAMONDS GTM

Sun 13 Mar 8pm X Space (Music)

ticketek.co.nz 0800 TICKETEK Baycourt Box Office – Ensure you are buying through Ticketek outlets only. BAYCOURT.CO.NZ

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29

Friday 17 December 2021

Twilight market set for Tauranga Emily’s looking for a home Support local this Christmas and find out what produce sprouts from the Bay of Plenty.

Tauranga Farmers Market was established 17 years ago with the purpose of enabling food growers and producers to sell directly to the customer. Since then they have supplied the city with freshly-grown seasonal produce.

Parking will be available on the school field and face masks must be worn at all times, with social distancing of one metre.

Gate monitors will be present at both entrances to assist people with scanning and signing in.

The market welcomes everyone.

Tauranga Farmers Market will host two twilight markets at Tauranga Primary School in the lead up to both Christmas and New Year’s Day, for locals, holiday makers and regulars to get a taste of what the Bay has to offer.

Market manager Trixie Allen says they want to welcome all visitors to the Bay in order to showcase what the region produces.

“The twilight markets are a short, snappy market enabling people to get their fresh produce for over the festive period.”

The two markets will occur on December 23 and 30, from 4-6pm, and will offer everything that the usual Saturday market does.

“For gift giving this season, be it a jar of relish or some special baking, the goods will have a story behind them because you can talk directly with the person that produced it.”

Summer produce is also in full swing for your Christmas Day spread.

“We have cherries from down South, as you cannot grow them in the Bay, early The Tauranga Farmers Market in full swing on a season corn, the melon family and, of Saturday morning. Photo: Supplied. course, all of the summer greens.”

Singing carols on high at Mount Maunganui

Come and join the carol singing at Mount Maunganui on Saturday, December 18.

The Pepi Toot train will be leaving from Mount RSA at around 3pm, with a group of carol singers on board. The train will then make three stops around the Mount, with around a dozen carols being sung at each stop.

The public are invited to dress up and meet the train at any or all of the stops, with the first

THE

TA U R A N G A

CITZ CLUB

half hour stop being at the Pilot Bay boat ramp at around 3.30pm, followed by a stop opposite Moturiki on Marine Parade and the last stop on Mount Mainstreet.

Everyone can join in and sing carols with the singers at each stop.

Mr and Mrs Claus will also be on the train, along with plenty of good cheer from RSA members.

The Pepi Toot train. Photo: Rosalie Liddle Crawford.

Meet Emily - a sweet and gentle soul who has had a rough start in life.

She really deserves a loving home where she can settle in and experience the best a kind family has to offer.

She is quite shy, and will require a quiet home without any other pets or young children as well as a kind owner who is willing to help Emily come out of her shell.

If you can offer Emily a loving home, please give the Tauranga centre a call on: 07 578 0245, quoting reference number: 528491.

Friday 17 December 2021 THE WEEKEND SUN

Saturday 18 Dec 113 Annual Group Show

The People’s Gallery (Historic Village) presents ‘113’ -The annual fundraising group show where all works are only $113 each! 28th Nov-20th Dec,10am3pm(weekdays),10am2pm(weekends). info@ theincubator.co.nz

Art in the Park

Original art for sale.

Weather permitting. 9am4pm. Coronation park, Mt Maunganui. Tauranga Society of Artists

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

Baycourt

Les Miserables. Tauranga Musical Theatre. 7.30pm (Weekend matinee 1.30pm) Tickets available from ticketek.co.nz 0800 TICKETEK (Dec 10-19)

Bay Singles Social Club

Join a bunch of over 50’s young singles. Weekend

Merry Christmas Everyone dinners, potlucks, occasional outings. Have a go! Ph Delia 027 284 8762, Andrea 021 133 0313

French game played with Kiwi flair, boules available. Ph John 022 075 4251 for playing times

Doreen McNeill’s ‘Expressions’ Exhibition

‘Precocious Vessels’ Ceramics Exhibition

The Incubator Gallery (Historic Village) welcomes Doreen McNeill. Recent works and launch of Doreen’s 2nd book ‘Expressions -Close up’. 28th Nov-22nd Dec,10am-3pm(weekdays),10am2pm(weekends). info@ theincubator.co.nz

The Incubator’s Pot House Gallery (Historic Village) welcomes Dominique Ford. Pottery works inspired by sea creatures, germs, triffids and body parts. 1st-29th Dec, 10am-3pm(weekdays),10am2pm(weekends). info@ theincubator.co.nz

Greerton Hall Market

A magical Christmas journey.

Be wowed by Christmas displays and take a photo with Santa. Ends 24 Dec. The Arts Junction, 36 Main Rd, Katikati. 07 549 1658

2nd and last Saturday of the month. 8am-12pm. Stalls inside/ outside. Discounts for charity groups. Refreshments at kitchen.

Phone/txt for site. Tricia 07 543 1487 or 027 908 2952, www facebook.com/greertonhallmarket

Jigsaw Library 2203

Saturdays 10am-12noon.

Everyone must wear a mask. Hire: 500p 50c, 1000p $1. Choose from 500 jigsaw puzzles, landscape, wasgij, children’s. Brookfield, off Highmore Terrace

Katikati Bowling Club

8 Park Rd 12:45-3pm

LOL Laughter Wellness

On hold until 2022. Trish 022 036 6768 lollaughterwellness@ gmail.com. Check out our new website for more details www. lollaughterwellness.weebly.com

Omokoroa Market

Across No. 1757 7. She was a famous 6. Indolent (4) suffragist (4,8) 11. City (NI) (8) 8. Utter (6) 13. Fish (8) 9. Fuel (6) 14. Separate (7) 10. Intellectual (7) 17. Begin (5) 12. Candour (5) 19. Edge (4) 15. Foe (5) 21. Wander (4) 16. Gun (7) 18. Stringed instrum- C O N A E D T A I L A A H ent (6) A P O S S E S S I O N S M S L U S E M L L M S T S S 20. Exclaim (6) T A R O E E L E C T R I C 22. Dance sequence E Z D R D A G E X E M S T (12) M A R T O N G P E T I T E Y E L E OWG T O R A T O Down T A N D E MG A P A T H Y 1. Herb (8) A L T A I A G P T V I E K 2. Flightless bird (4) C L A P T R A P I E Y R E 3. Famous Tongariro Z U P U E T I E I R O O K hotel (7) A D A N N Y W A T S O N M F E T Y E R E L O E T E R 4. Tool (5) Solution 1756 5. Untroubled (8)

The Weekend Sun

30

Settlers Hall 9am-12pm Christmas shopping galore Handcrafted locally made gifts plus more Orange restrictions apply. e-mail: omokoroamarket@gmail.com

Tauranga Farmers Market

Santa’s Christmas Grotto

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 19 Dec Art On The Strand

Original art for sale. Weather permitting. 9am - 4pm. The Strand, Tauranga. Tauranga Society of Artists

Baycourt

Clara and Friends. By Turning Pointe Tauranga.

10:30am, 2:30pm & 6:30pm. Tickets available from ticketek.co.nz 0800 TICKETEK

Croquet

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

Ph Peter 571 0633

Farmers Market - Mount Mainstreet

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

Direct from the Producers. Support local

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

Tauranga Fuchsia Group

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

Meet last Saturday of the month February to November at Art & Craft Centre, Elizabeth St West 1pm. Learn to care for fuchsia plants

Te Puke Scottish Society

Christmas Dance 7-10:30pm at Memorial Hall, Jellicoe Street, Te Puke. Entry $7. Great music, Christmas supper, raffles. Everyone welcome. Ph Valerie 573 7093

Petanque Tauranga BOP Association

Club days Sat, Tues & Thurs.

Tawa Street, Mt Maunganui.

Golf Croquet

Maketu Market

3rd and 5th Sunday.

Setup from 7am at Maketu Village Green.$10 per stall. Ph Maureen 021 267 1685

Maori History Walks

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

Papamoa Farmers Market

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

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 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 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

Tauranga Open Woodworking Group 2203

Te Puke 500 Cards

Tibetan Buddhist Teachings

Western Bay Museum Tour

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

Mondays 7pm start.

4 Queen Street, Te Puke. Cost $4. New players & visitors welcome. Ph Mike 027 495 5284 or Lou 07 573 8184

Prayers, mantras and meditation. Sunday 19 December from 10-11:30am followed by shared lunch. 25 Junction Road, Te Puna. Everyone welcome!

Find us on Facebook: https://www. facebook.com/tashichoepel.ling

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

Monday 20 Dec

Service club empowering women & girls through service & advocacy.

We meet on the 2nd Monday each month. Ph Leigh 0210 267 2631

Alcoholics Anonymous

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

Coffee & Chat

New Zealand first meeting and speaker.

1st Monday of the month. St Peters Hall, 11 Victoria Ave, Mt Maunganui.

Start 10am. All welcome.

Ph Roy 576 2025

Zonta Club of Tauranga

Tuesday 21 Dec 500 Cards

Open to all 50+. Enjoy a fun afternoon with like-minded people.

Coffee and Tea. Mount Maunganui Community Hall, 12:30pm start Tues & Thurs. Ph Margaret 027 658 6848

Alcoholics Anonymous

Dutch Friendly Support Network

Open meeting 7:30pm St Peters Anglican Church.

11 Victoria Rd. Mt Maunganui. All welcome Ph 0800 229 6757

Men4Change Support Group

Altrusa Int’l Tauranga

Coffee morning 1st Monday of the month, 10am-12noon. $4 entry. Vintage Car Club Rooms, Cliff Road, Tauranga.

Ph Bernadette 07 572 3968

Supporting men who are feeling low, anxious, depressed, experiencing relationship breakdown & loneliness. Next meeting: 27 Dec. 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

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

is coming your

way!

The Weekend Sun

Friday 17 December 2021

31

THE WEEKEND SUN

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

Divorce Support Group

A 13 week course for divorced or separated. Gain healing and hope.

Starts 22 Feb 2022. Register www. citychurch.co.nz/divorcecare contact Kathryn 027 737 3172

Fitness Fun & Coffee

Cardio, dance, weights, dance, floor work, dance, have fun and feel good.

9:30-10:30am St Columba Church, 502 Otumoetai Road, Cherrywood. Ph Gloria 021 139 2448

Horizons Suicide Bereavement Information

Guided conversation about grief after suicide. 6-7:30pm in Greerton. Free and open to 18+. RSVP to amy@ griefsupport.org.nz or 578 4480

Keep On Your Feet

Katikati 10:30am-11:30am, Memorial Hall, Main Road.

Strength & balance classes for older adults. All levels of fitness welcome. Ph Sharnie 021 111 8617

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

Scrabble

Stimulate your brain. Tuesdays 9:20am Tga Citz Club 13th Ave & Cameron Rd. Ph Jo Ann 578 3603

Tauranga Acoustic Music Club Greerton RSA 7pm. Friendly get-together, all instruments, all levels of ability. Come in & enjoy some live music.

Grant 578 6448

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 22 Dec 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

Cards

Cribbage 12:45 at RSA Greerton.

Friendly club.

New members very welcome.

Ph Jill 021 160 6143

Ph Cyril 022 639 2585

Katikati Bowling Club

8 Park Road. Mixed Rollups 12:45-3pm

Maori History Walks

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/upcomingexperiences

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

Baypark 10am to 12noon.

Join the fun! Beginners welcome. Bats and balls provided. $5. The Mount Pickleball Club.

Bob 027 478 6282

Tauranga Embroiderer’s Guild

Meets every Wednesday at Tauranga Rowing Club, Devonport Road 10am-2:30pm and 7-9pm. Beginners very welcome. Ph Carol Roband 027 348 5875 or 466 0075

Tauranga Scrollsaw Woodworking Group

3 Cherokee Place, Mount Maunganui

Tauranga Wood Turners Group

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

Te Puna Tennis Club

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

welcome. Bats and balls provided. $5. The Mount Pickleball Club. Bob 027 478 6282

Friday 24 Dec

Pickleball Morning Play

Alcoholics Anonymous

Open meeting 10am Tauranga Central Baptist Church. cnr Cameron Rd/13th ave.

All welcome. Ph 0800 229 6757

Carols On The Lawn

Wesley Methodist Church,100 13th Ave, tonight 8.15pm-9pm. Candles & carol books provided,Tauranga City Brass. Bring a chair/blanket to sit on (inside church if wet) & vaccine pass

Indoor Bowls

All welcome to a fun afternoon, Weds & Fri 12:30pm start at Mount Community Hall, 339 Maunganui Rd. Refreshments and prizes. Ph Cyril 022 639 2585

Pickleball Evening Play

Tauranga Boys College 7-9pm. Beginners

Thursday 23 Dec Katikati Bowling Club

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

Katikati Concert Band

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

Kickstart Toastmasters

Develop your confidence and s Speaking skills in a fun, supportive club

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

Healing Rooms Prayer

THE

TA U R A N G A

Healing Rooms is closed for the summer break. www. healingrooms.co.nz 021 213 8875

CITZ CLUB

Indoor Bowls

All welcome to a fun afternoon, Weds & Fri 12:30pm start at Mount Community Hall, 339 Maunganui Rd. Refreshments and prizes.

VERY EASY

3 VERY EASY

SUDOKU

5 4 8 7 1 9

6 9 4

2 4 1

Sun 19th Annie G 4-7pm

SUDOKU

How to solve Sudoku!

No.2117

2 3 5 8

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

SUDOKU5

How to solve 1 7 6 6 Sudoku!

No.2117 1 4 9 2 Fill the grid so that 8 33 9 every row and every 1 4 15 8 3x3 7 square 9 6contains23 the digits 1 to 9 7 4 3 8 5

5 4 8 MT RSA 7 1 9 4 82 Fri 17th Che Orton JACK DUSTY’S (Bureta) Sat 18th Brendan McCarthy 7-10:30pm 4 31 Sat 18th Bluebell3 & Lily & Scumbag College 7:30Boomers Band 4:30-6pm, 1 10:30pm The Harleys 7-10:30pm6 Sun 19th Tim Armstrong Sun 19th In Your Dreams 3-6pm 9 4 5 How6to solve1 7 4:30-7:30pm VERY EASY Sudoku! 4 No.1622 LATITUDE 37 THE PHOENIX Fri 17th Hoss 9pm Sun 419th1Sophie 4Dodson 82 8 3Fill9the grid so that 1 3-6pm Sat 18th Sam Fisher 9pm 9 5 AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD4NOW! 3 1every row 7 and 9 every 6 3x3 square contains 5 7 1 1 the digits 2 4 4 13to 89 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 CORNERSTONE PUB Sat 18th Sugafix 10:30pm

setting. 7am at Basestation, 148 Durham St, CBD. Visitors welcome. Ph Stan 022 390 2216

6 1 9 8 4 3 2 7 5

Solution Solution No.2116 No.2116 4 7 2 1 5 9 6 8 3

8 5 3 2 6 7 1 4 9

7 2 4 9 1 5 8 3 6

3 9 5 7 8 6 4 1 2

1 6 8 3 2 4 5 9 7

2 4 7 5 9 1 3 6 8

5 3 1 6 7 8 9 2 4

9 8 6 4 3 2 7 5 1

Solution No.2116 4 8 7 3 1 2 5 7 5 2 9 6 4 3 2 3 4 5 8 7 1 1 2 9 7 3 5 6 5 6 1 8 2 9 7 9 7 5 6 4 1 8 6 1 8 4 5 3 9 8 4 3 1 9 6 2 3 9 6 2 7 8 4

9 8 6 4 3 2 7 5 1

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

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

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

Friday 17 December 2021

The Weekend Sun

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CLASSIFIEDSECTION

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

trades & services

SPA POOL COVERS & BOAT COVERS

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The Weekend Sun

Friday 17 December 2021

33

trades & services

BUILDER BUILDER CONTACT JEFF CONTACT JEFF

Kerb Damaged Wheel?

LAWNMOWING Totally Cut

0800 537 233

LTD

Lawns & Gardens Residential - Lifestyle - Commercial

Mathew 021 507 182

www.wheelmagician.co.nz

Friday 17 December 2021

automotive

wanted

The Weekend Sun

34

mobility

thank you

florists situations vacant

memoriam

funeral services

deceased

Our family helping your family

07 543 3151 www.hopefunerals.co.nz 4 Keenan Road, Pyes Pa, Tauranga

The Weekend Sun

Friday 17 December 2021

35

for sale bible digest

PUT ON THE full armour of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes (Ephesians 6:11)

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

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

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

health & beauty

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

WE ARE

OPEN

livestock

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

lost & found

FOUND KITTENS & PUPPIES various places, colours and sex. Ph SPCA 07 578 0245 Found Adult, Grey and White, Female, Mount Maunganui Area Ref:531330 Found Adult, Ginger, Male, Welcome Bay Area Ref:531299 Found Adult, Grey and White, Male, Ohauiti Area Ref: 528606

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 BUILDER AVAILABLE repair maintenance, decks, pergolas, fences, all housing work. Ph Roger 022 121 3356 HANDYMAN, section maintenance, lawns, decks, fencing, pergolas, painting, water blasting and odd jobs. Free quotes.

Ph Rossco 027 270 3313 or 07 544 5911 ROOF REPAIRS Free quotes for all maintenance of leaking roofs, gutter cleaning & repairs. Chimney

SERVICES AVAILABLE TO YOU

FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON

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

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. 4 days 31st Jan4 Feb 2022 Kaipara & Waiheke 4 Days 4th-8th Feb 2022 Great Barrier Island. Free Door to Door service, Extended Tours, Day Trips, Shows. BOOK NOW:Ph. No8 Tours team on 579 3981 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

Friday 17 December 2021

The Weekend Sun

36

News from Bay of Plenty Regional Council December 2021

Check, Clean, Dry, Certify

To protect the lakes and rivers that you love, anyone using Rotorua Te Arawa lake boat ramps this summer is required to self-certify that their vessel is free of freshwater pest fish and freshwater pest plants where self-certification checkpoints are located.

There are checkpoints at 20 different boat ramps around the lakes so if you are planning on using one this summer please familiarise yourself with the rules.

Staff from Te Arawa Lakes Trust who are warranted under the Biosecurity Act 1993 will be undertaking boat ramp checks over the summer to ensure that everyone is complying and helping to stop the spread of freshwater pests.

Summertime office hours

Seen a wallaby?

Report It Dama wallabies were first released near Lake Ōkāreka in 1912 and since then they have been steadily expanding their distribution across the Bay of Plenty and into the Waikato.

It’s estimated that a third of the North Island could be impacted by the spread of wallabies within 50 years. That’s why we are asking everyone who is out in and around the bush this summer to report any wallaby sightings to www.reportwallabies.nz

All Bay of Plenty Regional Council offices will be closed from 5pm on Friday, December 24 and will reopen at 8.30am onBLACK Monday, January 10.10315 C PANTONE During this time, you can still call our 24/7 Pollution Hotline on 0800 884 883 or contact our duty Harbourmaster on 0800 5 KNOTS (0800 55 66 87).

Bay of Plenty Regional Council Toi Moana works to ensure our region’s environment and its people thrive.

Find out about the work we do at www.boprc.govt.nz

We wish you safe and happy holidays!

PANTONE 10127 C

PANTONE 103