The Weekend Sun - 16 December 2022

Ten monstrous battles!

By day, Andrew Fergusson is a mildmannered 55-year-old franchise development manager. When the gun goes on Mount Maunganui’s Main Beach tomorrow morning, however, he’ll turn into a Monster-slaying, wave-chasing

weapon. Andrew is one of nearly 400 surf lifesavers lining up in the 10th anniversary of the Dexion-sponsored Mount Monster – but he’s the only one to have lined up every year. Tomorrow’s race has attracted lifeguards from all over New Zealand,

using the 23km endurance race to build crucial tness ahead of a busy summer on the beach.

ey’ll paddle, run, swim and stroke their way up and down the stunning coastline, with families and friends lining

up alongside high performance athletes and old salts alike.

In their midst will be Andrew, who epitomises what the event is all about.

Read more on page 9.

Photo: Jamie Troughton/Dscribe Media.

With this Christmas being the first without our beloved Rogers Rabbits earthside, a loyal Sun reader has requested that we re-print one of his favourite columns from the late Brian Rogers. It’s a festive one – and one that we know will be a favourite of many RR readers. Enjoy the Rabbits once more!

Christmas delivery delays possible

It’s 16 years since this Rogers Rabbits was rst published in e Sun and went viral around the world, so we thought we’d celebrate the season with a little “re-gifting”, especially for our loyal readers who have requested it. Merry Christmas!

Dear Mr Claus, We have thoroughly examined your vehicle, which was delivered in a sorry state to our yard by Rudolph Towing & Salvage Co. and have prepared the following report on its condition and made some recommendations.

I have to say from the outset that the vehicle seems to have su ered some most unusual damage and repairs will not be easy, due to the age and the rare nature of this vehicle. is model, a Sleighland P76, is of course no longer in production. It may require a complete repower by John Deer.

ere were considerable complications, also, due to the fact that it has undergone some major custom alterations during the course of its life, presumably to cater for your peculiar line of work.

ere is considerable corrosion in the chassis and mudguards, which seems to have been exacerbated by the large amounts of bovine excrement accumulated under the vehicle. Some of these deposits have been frozen solid, due possibly to travelling in subarctic conditions and at high altitudes.

e vehicle at some stage must have been used for some sort of o -road herd mustering, or possibly a venison recovery operation in the Kaimais?

e suspension on this vehicle is completely knackered, worse on the driver’s side, and we suspect that it has been used for long periods by a grossly overweight individual. Has it been subjected to rigorous work over rough terrain? It looks like it has been dropped repeatedly from three storeys up!

ere are roof tile fragments embedded in the shocks and what looks like the remains of a TV antenna has been removed from the leaf springs.

We recommend complete overhaul of the

suspension and bee ng up of the shock absorbers. And in future, you will need to take more care when parking. Which brings us to the handbrake. Our mechanics report that it is showing major wear and they estimate it has been left on for the last 24,900 miles, which oddly enough, is approximately the circumference of the Earth. We have taken the liberty of installing handbrake warning lights. ese are multicoloured, some lantern shapes and others in various fruit con gurations, which blink and ash to remind the operator that the brake is engaged. ere has been considerable damage to the electronics, including the satellite navigation system, apparently caused by the spilling of beverages on the control console. We have therefore installed gimballed drink holders and Tommy Tippee cups on the dashboard.

I am sorry we are not able to extend the cargo capacity any further, particularly since the boom box takes up so much space. Perhaps if you did away with the CD changer playing Jamaican rum drinking songs and Des O’Connor’s Christmas Favourite Singalong, there’d be more room. We realise from the attached market survey report that your client base has increased since last year, but we suggest that you follow the lead of a couple of our other clients in related lines of business (E. Bunny and T. Fairy) and instead of taking on more customers this year, you adopt a ‘limited supply policy,’ and only deliver to your top performing clientele. ose with poor records or bad credit history may then take heed and improve their performance during the next 12 months, in order to regain a preferential listing. We will attempt to repair the deerskin upholstery, and we thank you for the supply of the carcass which we have sent to the tannery to have the hide prepared.

Unfortunately there is a awed area of the hide, which seems to have been damaged by impact with hot bricks. Also in line with your requests, we have installed the forwardfacing LED ashing lights on the dashboard which can be programmed to read: “Move it, Rudolph you slackass or you’re next,”

although we should point out that these do not comply with MOT regulations.

As for your request for panel and paint to remove the unusual hoof-shaped dents in the bonnet: we will do our best, but that particular shade of red with the iridescent sparkle is going to be very di cult to match. May I suggest the installation of a hood ornament, perhaps a staghorn, to cover the damaged area or tting of bullbars to prevent damage from roadkill.

I have taken the liberty of sending some photos of the vehicle to my cousin Marcus in Ponsonby who is a colour and design specialist. He and his partner Sebastian have just made a beautiful job of redecorating their Citroen in a lovely combination of purple and pink with sheepskin and silk trim. I’m sure they can come up with some helpful suggestions to brighten up the old buggy, which is just SO seventies.

ey’ll help you accessorise, too. e chromed chain link steering wheel might have to go, and for the sake of Political Correctness we need to dispense with the Barbie with the ashing boobies dangling from the rear view mirror and the bumper stickers that read “I Might be Fat, but I’m in Front” and “Honk if you’re Horny.”

As we are only a small team of volunteers, it will be necessary to have our sta working around the clock in order to have this vehicle ready for service, according to the deadline imposed by the contract.

I must point out however that you’ve had nearly 12 months notice to get this right, and suggest that next year any such major repairs be started in su cient time. We’re all busy at this time of year.

If repairs cannot be e ected within these time constraints, I have secured an undertaking from Mr Rudolph of the towing company (although I hear they are quite dear) that he and his team will again be available at short notice to tow your vehicle to complete your contract deliveries, should it not be possible to operate on its own motive power.

Alf’s Motors, Specialist Transport Consultants

Banned from the berms Banned from the berms

Upset Sixth Avenue residents say it’s unfair they can’t park on berms outside their homes.

On December 1, Tauranga City Council’s berm parking ban between Marsh St and Eleventh Ave on the Te Papa Peninsula took e ect.

e Sun understands in the rst week of this change nearly $400 worth in nes have been imposed and more than 70 infringement warnings issued.

Sixth Ave residents were surprised by the changes and they’re not happy as they believe parking on berms doesn’t create issues. “You can’t park outside your own property... it’s the most stupid, weirdest thing,” says Aarron Fenwick, who owns a home-based hairdresser business on Sixth Ave.

Harmony shattered

Aarron, who has lived at and operated his Sixth Ave business for 17 years, says parking behind the kerb on the berm has never been an issue and is where many of his clients park.

“It was never a problem so I really don’t get why they would remove anywhere for anyone to park.”

One side of Sixth Ave restricts parking with yellow dotted lines; the other has limited on-street parking.

“So now you can’t even park on the street and you can’t even park outside your own house. It’s just so ridiculous.” Surprised with an infringement warning was Sixth Ave elderly resident Patricia McMamara, who has lived at her address for 20 years. She parks

on the berm outside her home as it gives easier accessibility to her front door as someone with mobility issues. “I should be able to question what I do if I’m disabled just to unload my car or something like that. I think there’s a lot of things that they probably haven’t looked into.”

TCC’s network safety and sustainability manager Anna Somerville’s response is: “Parking on the berm damages the berm and surfaces under the soil. e resident should park on the road or in her driveway”.

“ at’s pathetic!” says Patricia.

“ ey’re not even listening.”

Little warning

An issue for the residents was the apparent lack of warning from council about berm parking prohibitions. Peter, who also lives on Sixth Ave, says residents receive mail about Cameron Rd roadworks, yet did not receive mail about berm changes.

“We haven’t had anything about this.

“ e only hint I got was a sign appeared down the road on a power pole but from down there right to the top of the street there’s nothing.”

Anna says TCC advertised the berm parking ban in e Weekend Sun, which is delivered to all residential addresses in this area (aside from those with no circular signs) “which was the most cost-e ective way to reach the large number of people a ected by these changes”. Read this story in full at: www.sunlive.co.nz

Patricia McMamara questions what thought was given to people with a disability, in cases where berm parking provides easier home access. Photo: John Borren.

Georgia Minkhorst

Home ownership

Two Tauranga families have taken their rst step towards home ownership, receiving the keys to their new homes through Habitat for Humanity’s rent-to-buy Progressive Home Ownership system. A dedication ceremony took place for the three-bedroom houses at Sanctuary Point in Tauranga on Friday, December 9, before the families took possession of their new homes and began the rental phase of their Progressive Home Ownership journey.

Habitat partnered with Venture Developments to build the three houses at Sanctuary Point. Habitat is now accepting expressions of interest from families for an upcoming buil at West Dune, Papamoa. To nd out more, visit: habitatcentral.org.nz

BOP’s big win

Bay of Plenty has won its rst New Zealand Men’s Interprovincial title in a decade in front of hundreds of their home supporters at Omanu Golf Club.

e last time a BOP side won the national match play competition was in 2012 at Otago Golf Club. Since then, they’ve developed a brand-new team and returned to their winning ways at home, defeating Auckland in a tense nal that came down to the wire.

e home side won 3.5-1.5, but the match was decided on the nal hole last week between the number one’s Mitchell Kale and Auckland’s Joshua Bai.

Home testing

A new cervical cancer screening study will give participants the option to test at home.

e University of Otago, Christchurchled, pilot study, backed by Te Whatu Ora’s National Screening Programme, will look for any issues with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) test, which will be NZ’s main screening method for cervical cancer from 2023. About 3000 participants will be able to choose whether to have their test at a doctor’s surgery or do it themselves from home.

e HPV self-test is much less invasive than a traditional smear test as no speculum is required, instead a swab is used. A test will be required every ve years, rather than three.

Preparing your pets

e Veterinary Council of New Zealand is reminding pet owners that a little bit of preparation now will help keep their animals t and healthy during the summer holidays.

VCNZ professional advisor Seton Butler says whether going away or having a staycation, it is important people plan ahead to ensure pets are vaccinated, have necessary medication, and have received essential routine care before the Christmas break. If you’re taking your pet on holiday, VCNZ suggests giving the closest vet to your destination a call to check if they’d be able to see your animal if needed, and if not what alternatives are available.

Keep your child safe by being

Tauranga lifeguard Lauren McLellan was standing poolside earlier this year, scanning the busy Baywave crowd, when she spotted a small child attempting to jump towards a pool noodle in the deep end.

It was too late to intervene.

e kid jumped, couldn’t make it to the oating noodle, and started sinking.

Lauren dived into the water fullyclothed – Crocs included – and pulled the crying child out of the pool. eir parent wasn’t watching.

Bay Venues has had almost 50 wet rescues this year across its ve aquatic facilities and more than 80 per cent of them have involved children aged between two and 10.

“Most of the incidents we respond to are the result of a child getting into

trouble in the water while their parents aren’t watching,” says Lauren.

Suddenly changes

“Sometimes the adult is actually in the pool, but they are distracted or aren’t actively supervising their children.”

Child supervision is of course not a new issue when it comes to water safety.

In fact, Lauren has a vivid childhood memory of watching her mum – who is also a Bay Venues lifeguard – dive into a pool to save a kid while on holiday.

“Having now experienced that myself for the rst time, I can see just how fast it all happens.

“One moment everyone is having fun and splashing, and then it suddenly changes. It legitimately takes a couple of seconds of inattention or distraction for something to happen. It certainly is an adrenaline rush but not the sort we want

to experience.” To try and tackle this issue, Bay Venues launched a new child supervision policy and campaign in 2020.

Keep Me Safe

Keep Me Safe is all about caregivers taking ownership of their child’s safety in and around the water and new pool rules have been implemented to drive home the message and force change.

Caregivers must be 16 years or older and if they’re looking after children who are aged ve and under, they have to be in the pool with them and within arm’s reach.

Both the children and their caregiver also have to be wearing red wristbands, which are issued on arrival.

is helps lifeguards identify the youngest swimmers in the pool and their adult supervisors.

Children aged six to 10, meanwhile,

Baywave lifeguard Lauren McLellan saved a small child from drowning at the pool complex earlier this year. Photo: John Borren.

their personal lifeguard

have to wear yellow wristbands and their caregiver should also be actively supervising them.

is means the adult must be able to provide immediate assistance if required, they should be watching their child at all times – and they should be close enough to see, hear, and be heard by their child.

Keep Me Safe, which won a Recreation Aotearoa National Aquatic Innovation Award last year, also has parent-to-child ratios that have to be followed.

A silent process

For example, with children aged ve and under, it is one adult looking after no more than two children.

is new policy and campaign has led to a positive change, with a 36 per cent drop in the number of wet rescues across all venues in the rst year. However it has not eliminated the issue altogether and it is still mainly children being rescued from the water.

Bay Venues acting aquatic network manager Matthew Strange says there are situations where a parent is within arm’s reach but does not recognise their child is drowning.

“It can be a silent process and look like they are playing. Trained and experienced lifeguards can see it and feel it in their gut within an instant but untrained caregivers can take a while to actually

New campaign

Matthew says Bay Venues is about to run a new campaign around how to identify a child in distress in the water.

“Families visiting our centres have done a fantastic job of getting on board with being their child’s personal lifeguard, but at times even caregivers doing a great job with supervision have looked straight at their child and not recognised they are in distress.

“It is our aim now to help all caregivers by providing some education around what drowning looks like, so that no matter what aquatic environment they are in, they can make the lifesaving judgement between someone having fun and playing, and someone in distress.”

Lauren says the moment she saw that small child sizing up the jump in the deep end at Baywave, she knew they weren’t going to make it to the pool noodle.

If someone had been watching the child all along, that wet rescue could have been avoided.

“My number one tip this summer for parents at the pool is to put down your phone, get in the water and have fun with your child. ey will be safer as a result, and you’ll have a great time bonding too.”

Netherlands make Tauranga base camp

Tauranga has been announced the base camp for the Netherlands team while they compete in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, kicking o next July in New Zealand.

Bay Oval will host the team for their training, while the team will reside at Trinity Wharf Tauranga hotel in the city centre.

Nicknamed the Oranjeleeuwin (Orange Lionesses), the Netherlands are currently ranked number six in the FIFA Women’s World Rankings and were nalists in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2019 in France.

Team representatives visited Tauranga in October when they were in NZ for the tournament draw. After visiting several potential training camp options,

they selected Tauranga as their preferred Team Base Camp.

Tauranga City Council venues and events manager Nelita Byrne says it’s a great honour for Tauranga to be selected as base camp by such a high-ranking team. “We are thrilled, we can’t wait for the team to experience the manaakitanga our city is becoming renowned for.

“ e selection recognises Bay Oval as a premier sports facility and is a testament to how wonderful our city is. We stood out to one of the world’s best football teams as the place to be.

“We look forward to embracing the Orange Lionesses alongside our community and supporting them in their World Cup campaign.”

A total of 15 Team Base Camps have been con rmed in Aotearoa.

The rules have changed

realise their child in front of them is in trouble.”

Kayle Lawson holds his son, Lucky, 18 months, while in the water at Baywave.

Photo: John Borren.

Barry’s very suite retirement

How long is long enough on a comfy couch? Mount Maunganui’s furniture connoisseur and retail icon Barry Muir has decided it’s time.

He’s occupied his Maunganui Rd building for around 30 years, starting out with business partner Kevin Long who passed away about 10 years ago.

“ e decision to retire was really because the lease on the building had run out,” says Barry. “I didn’t want to renew it, thought it was time that I called it a day.”

Barry’s overshot the usual retirement age of 65 by nearly 20 years. He’s 82, and two of his long-term employees Bill Strang and Marie Peck – “our curtain lady” – have already retired.

“I didn’t feel one little minute that it was time to retire. I was enjoying myself too much and the business had been very good to us.

“We’d been on a couple of cruises. We’ve been overseas many times.”

His lease nished at the end of October, but Barry wants to make sure all outstanding orders are lled, and plans to nally shut the doors in the rst week of January.

“My landlord Hayden Wall has been very good. “He’s been a wonderful person to deal with all these years.”

He’s previously considered selling Barry Muir’s Furniture Gallery. “A year or two ago we had a couple of likely people who may have purchased the business but it didn’t turn out to be the right thing at that stage.”

e name Barry Muir is of course synonymous with quality furniture, which could be a disadvantage if someone without the same standards of business took the business name on into the future.

Barry’s parents

When Barry’s parents arrived in Tauranga in 1948, they were unable to nd a state house, so his father built their home in Greerton.

“I went to Tauranga Boys’ College, and for an after-school and holiday job I worked for Greerton Furnishing,” says Barry.

“ e original owners were John and George Sherwin and Ray Stratford.” He became fully employed with them in 1957.

‘Ray said to me: ‘I want you to remember Aloysius Chumley’s Chipwhistle’. at stands for Ask, Choose and Concentrate’.

‘And that’s how I was taught to be a salesman.

“You ask, you choose and you

concentrate on what that person may be interested in.

“Ray taught me that when it comes to the closing of the sale, if the customer is looking at a lounge suite, he would say to them: ‘Would you like it in green?’ and then shut up.

“ e next person to talk has got to be the customer. ey will say: ‘No, I don’t want it in green’ and then you’re straight in because you know they’re ready to buy.”

Barry says none of his children are interested in coming into the business.

“One lives in Sydney... the other one married a farmer in North Canterbury and I have a son in Oropi who has an engineering business,” says Barry, who also has ve grandchildren.

Many changes

He’s noticed many changes during 30 years in retail.

“Designs have changed. About

Tauranga’s furniture man Barry Muir. Photos: Rosalie Liddle Crawford.

six years ago Lazy Boy took the agency from us, which was a real blow. We were quite big with Lazy Boy, and they opened their own stores here.

“But that gave us the opportunity to go to China and nd more styles of chairs to compete with Lazy Boy. We were very lucky as we were able to get a range from Zedea that tted the bill really well. We directly imported our own kind of recliner and lounge suits in from China.”

He enjoyed the opportunity to choose new styles.

China

“China was fantastic. Shanghai – a beautiful city. It was just unbelievable the selection of furniture. e furniture fair they had there would have been three football elds in size. And the quality – we’ve been to two or three factories and

found the quality to be very good.”

e last few months Barry has been busy lling nal orders.

“ ere’s only a small container still to come but I should be able to ful l all orders by the end of December, maybe rst week in January.”

He’s not accepting any more forward orders but one of his employees, Shaun Reed, will be opening a furniture shop at the same location.

“Shaun has been with me for 17 years.

“He’s been with me to China twice. He’s been a loyal employee, he’s almost part of the family.

“He could change the name on the front and keep rolling.”

Meanwhile Barry and wife Trisha plan to sell their house and head to a retirement village for a suite life. With maybe a comfy recliner or two.

Rosalie Liddle Crawford

Community celebrations

New YEAr'S EvE

Welcome in 2023 with your family and friends this New Year’s Eve at our community celebrations held across Tauranga.

These free, picnic-friendly events start at 6pm and finish with a 9.30pm fireworks display, except in Greerton where a laser light display will be enjoyed. We look forward to seeing you there!

All events are alcohol and smoke-free.

Fireworks can be scary for animals, please keep your pets inside.

City Centre

Tauranga Waterfront

Greerton

Tauranga Racecourse

Matua

Fergusson Park

Mount Maunganui

Blake Park

Pāpāmoa

Gordon Spratt Reserve

Trade Depot has launched a series “inflation busting” initiatives to help Kiwi shoppers cope with the ongoing cost of living crisis.

Monster-slayer hopes for a perfect 10th race

Andrew Fergusson may not be gunning to win this Saturday’s Mount Monster but in one aspect at least, he’ll be impossible to catch.

e Dexion-sponsored 23km surf lifesaving endurance race up and down the Mount Maunganui coastline on December 17 will celebrate its 10th anniversary and Andrew, a 55-year-old franchise development manager, is the only person to have raced as an individual every year.

Andrew lined up in the inaugural 2013 event just a month after qualifying as a lifeguard. He’s raced it alongside son Seb, met plenty of mates and it helped entice

him to Tauranga three years ago, where he joined the Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service.

Getting out there “ ere’s always the hope you’ll have a perfect race and I just really like getting out there. “After I'd raced it for a few years, I thought I could maybe get to 10 Monsters and then look at ‘retiring’ and entering in a team but maybe I’ve got a few more in me. I’ve certainly got to work harder to get there these days but little things about the race just keep me coming back.”

When Andrew was su ering on the nal 6km board leg last year, young Mount clubmate Lily Pearce paddled alongside and encouraged him to hop on her wash. “It was an awesome o er and I wish I could’ve but I was absolutely stu ed so just told her to keep going!”

Andrew has a background in multisport events but was roped into surf lifesaving when Seb was in nippers at Napier’s Westshore club. He’s also completed the iconic

Coolangatta Gold race, but training under Mount coach John ‘Spindles’ Bryant alongside the senior squad has given him a new lease of life.

“Because of my kayaking, paddling on a ski wasn’t too bad when I rst started but the board was a huge challenge – I could barely go on my knees. I also can’t seem to master a tumble-turn so swimming is a bit of a weak leg for me but Spindles is gracious enough to let me be there training with his squad so I owe it to him to at least try and keep

up. at’s been really awesome, to train alongside some great kids and amazing athletes.”

Mini Monster

Organisers have reintroduced the Mini Monster for under-14s, which starts 8am tomorrow. e main race is 10am. Individuals and teams paddle 12km to Omanu and back, run 5km along soft sand to Tay St and back, then back to Moturiki Island for a jump o the blowhole, a 1500m swim and 6km board paddle.

After tomorrow Andrew Fergusson, 55, will have competed in all 10 annual Mount Monster events.

Photo: Jamie Troughton/Dscribe Media.

Growing herb knowledge for 40 years

Learning how to identify, cultivate and harness the powerful properties of plants is what has kept the Tauranga Herb Society ourishing for 40 years.

Tauranga Herb Society president Helen Loe says people become members of the group because they are keen to learn the best way to grow herbs.

“ ey also want to discover the many ways that these can be used.”

What’s

e society, which marks its 40th year in 2022, o ers education around the medicinal, culinary, cosmetic and craft uses of herbs.

Society members meet monthly for workshops that cover a wide range of herb-related topics.

A year-round programme o ers guest speakers, garden trips, craft displays and more.

Surprised

ere’s also a monthly opportunity to access the extensive library that’s been amassed by THS members during 40 years of existence.

Past president and life-member Pamela Mail was present at the rst meeting of the society.

“I was a young mum who wanted to nd alternative ways to treat my children’s minor ailments. When we had a few more members join, who were interested in herbs for health, we started to make our own herbal teas.”

Pamela believes people today would be surprised at what they might nd in their gardens.“Plants like dandelion, chickweed and kawakawa can be

easily used, if you know how. Some chopped up for salads, others for powerful ointments.”

Society members range in age from 35-72, with two-thirds being women. Just as varied are their backgrounds and life experiences.

“We have naturopaths, herbalists, nurses, and professional herb growers,” says Helen.

“We even have a couple of retired, highlyquali ed scientists who bring another aspect to the understanding of herbs.”

Helen believes an added bonus of being a THS member is the relationships formed.

“To be immersed in conversation about herbs and the study of herbs with like-minded people is wonderful.

“ e friendships formed are very special.”

Pamela would like more young people to join.

“Mothers and fathers who want to learn how to manage the little things like coughs and eczema with their children would be great.” Visit: herbs.org.nz/local-societies/tauranga-herb-society Catherine Sylvester

Tauranga Herb Society president Helen Loe says most people become members to learn the best

way to grow herbs.

Photo: John Borren.

How to survive a lonesome festive season

e Christmas season is traditionally a time for connecting with family. For those newlydivorced, separated or widowed, navigating their way through the festive season can be challenging.

is is where Kathryn Michel can help.

rough C3 City Church, Kathryn facilitates a one-night course in November called ‘Surviving the Holidays,’ and in February, a 13-week ‘Divorce Care’ course.

Having been divorced herself, Kathryn understands the change in family dynamics can be hard for many people.

“For those who are newly on their own or who have a new or di erent family situation, the lead up to Christmas, the parties, and the day itself can be di cult.”

Be kind

For those sharing custody of children, it may also mean the rst Christmas without their tamariki, or a change in budget available for present shopping.

Kathryn encourages people to be kind to themselves during this time. “Don’t put too high expectations on yourself.”

When faced with these changes, Kathryn believes it’s important to be prepared to do things a little di erently. “Create new memories for yourself, or with your children.

“Do something di erent – especially

if you nd yourself alone on Christmas Day. Do something out of the box!”

When it comes to end-ofyear parties, where partners would have once attended, Kathryn’s message is again one of self-care and new

experiences. “Don’t feel you have to go to everything –sometimes it’s better not to go. Where you used to take a partner, it can now feel very uncomfortable, so allow yourself to not attend if that’s the case.”

Supporting others in this area is important for Kathryn as she well remembers her rst Christmas after her divorce. By reaching out and helping others in similar situations she’s able to share some tips and strategies that were useful for her.

“ at rst year, I bought myself my own Christmas present. My children loved seeing it under the tree tucked in with their gifts... And, of course, it

was exactly the gift I wanted!”

With Covid restrictions in the past two years, Kathryn believes it’s bene ted those she supports.

“People have had to learn quickly how to be alone, which is strangely somewhat of an advantage.”

To sum up her advice, Kathryn reiterates the importance of making sure you “treat yourself well” this Christmas.

Catherine Sylvester

Kathryn Michel knows what it’s like to tackle your rst Christmas alone.

Photo: Merle Cave.

From Bluff to Cape Reinga for male survivors

Sam Troth is raising awareness for male survivors of sexual abuse step by step by walking from Blu all the way to Cape Reinga.

On Friday, December 9, Male Survivors Bay of Plenty hosted a breakfast for Sam to celebrate making it to his hometown here in Tauranga as part of his hikoi. e 39-year-old started his walk

from Blu on October 24 and plans to stride into Cape Reinga on December 30. Sam is doing the walk for his healing journey after surviving sexual abuse perpetrated by a family friend for several years. “I’m also doing it for everyone – all survivors of sexual abuse whether they’re male or female… just to be an ambassador to get help and be a face that people can relate to and an example of if you put in the work you can get past it and move forward in life.”

Walking for more than 50 days – Sam has connected with a lot of people along the way. “ ose have been cool. Some conversations have been quite brief and others you end up on the side of the road for 15 to 20 minutes talking to someone about their experience or their family member’s experience – so it sort of reiterates the fact that it is widespread and it happens so much more than everyone talks about.”

Social barriers

Male Survivors BOP branch manager Bruce Montgomery, who is also Sam’s counsellor, says there are a lot of social barriers for men who have experienced sexual abuse seeking help.

“Men aren’t conditioned or it’s not in our DNA for us to talk about what’s going on with us…for men there’s a higher level of shame attached to actually putting your hand up. It was only around the year 2000 that it became legal for women to be

charged for raping men. People don’t know that. “ ere’s just over 150,000 men in the whole of the Bay of Plenty and what we know is that one in six men will experience some form of sexual assault in their life.” at statistic equals 25,000 men locally, says Bruce.

Does happen to men

“We’ve had just under 90 men come through the service in the last two-and-a-half years.”

Asked what needs to change for men to start speaking out more and seeking help, Bruce says: “Society accepting that it does happen to men”.

“Sexual abuse is a taboo subject for a lot of people and people don’t like talking about it –that’s what we’re up against.”

Sam is continuing his journey to Cape Reinga where he’ll be met by family. Follow Sam’s journey at: www.facebook.com/roadtohealingaotearoa

Georgia Minkhorst

Sam Troth at the Male Survivors BOP breakfast last Friday.

Photo: Georgia Minkhorst.

A patch-worked community

A delicate needle with a ne thread weaves in and out of beautiful colours and patterns, revealing the brilliant patch-worked tapestry of a quilted masterpiece.

Each Monday the Papamoa Patchers meet up to get creative and craft wonderful quilted treasures. It’s not just quilts for the bed that the group makes either. “ ere’s lots of quilty items that we’ll make,” says Papamoa Patchers’ president Angela Robins. “We’ll make table runners, covered boxes, bags are quite popular too… so there’s lots of di erent things.”

Friendly

e group is made up of ladies of lots of di erent ages too. “We cover a very broad range of ages and everybody just gets along and we’ve all got quilting as our interest. We’ve got one member who’s 95 and another one who’s 91; then they trickle down and we’ve got a couple in their 50s.” Angela enjoys how friendly the group is. “ e way everybody supports each other and the friendships, and I think they’re a lovely friendly group of women, they’re very welcoming

“Since we’ve come back from Covid-19 it’s been really interesting because it’s become a real support group for some of those women who live on their own and I think we’re ful lling a really vital role in that community.”

A challenge

With Christmas just around the corner, the group is doing the “ugly fat quarter” challenge this year. e challenge involves swapping a onequarter metre of fabric that you think is ugly, with someone else’s fabric and make something new from it. “At Christmas they have to bring them back and show us what they’ve made with their ugly piece of fabric because you know one person’s ugly could be another person’s beautiful, so it’ll be interesting to see what people have made.”

Papamoa Patchers meet at St Andrew’s Church Hall, corner of Dee St and Ranch Rd, Mount Maunganui, 9.30am-2.30pm on the rst and third Monday, and 9.30am-12.30pm on the second and fourth Monday each month. “We welcome new members. Come along and check us out!”

Georgia Minkhorst

Elizabeth Althuizen with a lovely patch work piece.

Papamoa Patchers’ Barbara Smith getting crafty on the sewing machine. Photos: Bob Tulloch.

Papamoa Patchers’ oldest member, Dawn Ryder, aged 95.

Support for those overcoming a suicide

ere are few people in current times who haven’t been touched in some way by suicide.

Grief Support Services o ers a range of free support options for those experiencing suicide bereavement or have been impacted by someone’s suicidal behaviour. is range is o ered so people can choose what suits their unique situation best at any particular time.

While counselling is o ered, “sometimes people aren’t comfortable speaking to a counsellor but just want to connect with someone who ‘gets it’,” says Grief Support Services suicide bereavement support coordinator Jeanette Jones. “If they wish to connect with an individual, we have volunteers trained as suicide loss support peers who have lived experience of suicide loss and are able to meet with the person informally, in a community space or even their home.”

Horizons

If anyone wishes to connect in a small group setting, GSS o ers Horizons in both Pāpāmoa and Greerton. Horizons runs every second Tuesday of the month at Papamoa Family Service, Hartford Ave, from 10am-11.30am; and every third Tuesday of the month from 6pm-7.30pm at Grief Support Services in Greerton.

ere is no need to book and

participants are made most welcome.

Jeanette says there’s also the WAVES programme – an eight-week psychoeducational group especially designed to support those who’ve lost someone to suicide and are ready for a group like this. e facilitator meets with each person prior to the group starting to ascertain this.

Waves

Jeanette says the experience of suicide loss may have happened many years ago. “Sometimes people notice that there are issues occurring presently for them that stem back to that time and that loss. “Sometimes the stigma surrounding suicide meant that it was not well-talked about at the time. Also, emotions in general used to be pushed aside more, with an attitude of ‘Harden up!’ “Now, there’s a recognition within the

Build to begin on new timber office

City residents will soon see the emergence of New Zealand’s largest mass timber o ce building in their CBD, with construction of Tauranga City Council’s future administration building to begin at 90 Devonport Rd next month.

Property development and investment company Willis Bond has worked alongside Warren and Mahoney architects, TCC sta and mana whenua to design a building that will lead the way in sustainable design.

Once complete council will lease the building to house all of its administration sta under one roof for the rst time since 2014.

Willis Bond executive chair Mark McGuinness says the building will set a new precedent for sustainable design, with a strong emphasis on mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge systems) and connection with the surrounding natural environment. “ ere is true alignment here with the design in uences and narrative shared by mana whenua and the actual

e mass timber construction means we are

CBD. “ is is all part of our wider strategy to transform the city centre into a place where more people want to live, work, learn, play and visit –now and in the future.”

LT McGuinness, which demolished the old administration and library building, will lead construction of the 10,000m2 building. It is expected to take about two years to complete.

community that our mental health bene ts from being able to explore and communicate what we are feeling and those events in the past that had a signi cant impact on us.”

Jeanette and job-share partner Amy Colonna can also share information and support after loss to suicide with workplaces, schools and organisations. See: www.griefsupport.org.nz or phone: 578 4480.

Tauranga outdoor water restrictions are in place

TheTauranga water supply is drawn from spring-fed streams. Despite recent rain the Tautau stream hasn’t fully recovered after years of dry summers.We all need to be mindful about how we use our share. It’s simply a matter of balance - as a rapidly growing city we mustn’t consume water faster than the streams can replenish themselves.

“Some of our WAVES attendees stay

“Some of our WAVES participants have gone on to become peer supporters themselves.”

Grief Support Services’ suicide bereavement support coordinators Jeanette Jones and Amy Colonna.

Have a safe and happy summer

Coast Care 2022 highlights

It’s been a busy planting season for our dedicated Coast Care team. From Waihī Beach down to Ōpōtiki and beyond you’ll find restored dunes planted up by communities keen to make a di erence to our coastline. Despite a challenging season getting plants in the ground amidst Covid and lots of inclement weather, the team have persisted. 57,105 native dune plants were rehomed with the help of 3107 volunteers. Demand from the community for planting and education events continues to be strong, with interest from schools and businesses growing. The team welcomed Ashley Robertson as Restoration Coordinator for the Tauranga and Waihī Beach areas and they’re preparing for the imminent retirement of stalwart Restoration Coordinators Chris and Jayne Ward. Chris and Jayne have dedicated more than 10 years of service and more than 30 years involvement in dune restoration –they will be missed!

If you’ve attended any Coast Care events this year, planted or weeded up a dune, or helped to protect our dunes by keeping to the paths – thank you! If you’ve ever considered being a part of Coast Care, the team are always keen to host volunteers to help restore local dunes – check out their Facebook page for more details: Coast Care Bay of Plenty. Lastly, Meri Kirihimete – Merry Christmas from the Coast Care whānau!

Rotorua Lakes Photo Competition

Navigational safety bylaw review

We are reviewing our Navigational Safety Bylaws and are keen to hear what you think.

The current Bylaws have been in place since 2017 and help minimise the risk of fatalities, injuries, accidents, and collision in our navigable waters. We’re seeking feedback this summer to help guide changes to our Bylaws.

It’s easy to have your say by signing up to the Participate page on our website at www.participate.boprc.govt.nz/navigational-bylaw

Got some snaps of your favourite swimming spot? Some photos of your tamariki enjoying the Rotorua Te Arawa lakes? Perhaps you’ve taken a shot of the perfect sunrise over Lake Tarawera? Share your snapshots with us and go in the draw to win a paddleboard.

The Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Programme works to protect and restore the lakes as a taonga for the future.

To enter the competition, tell us why you love our lakes and upload your photo at rotorualakes.co.nz

Entries close 12pm, 1 March, 2023. Terms and conditions apply.

If you’ve already signed up, you’ll know how simple it is to have your say.

If you haven’t, just click on the ‘join’ button on the homepage – easy!

Bay of Plenty Regional Council

Toi Moana works to ensure our region’s environment and its people thrive. Find

It was 1.58pm Wednesday arvo last week and the phone was ringing in Bobby’s. It rang and rang and then rang o . Probably someone calling in an order for two sh, a scoop of chips, a hotdog and a cuppla oysters or scallops. Unashamedly cooked in animal fat… and anyone who’s hooked into a parcel on the dock at Bobby’s would testify to the deep avour and glorious texture that lard creates. Just sometimes you have to forget the big fat scare; worry waist lines and cholesterol levels tomorrow. But hadn’t that caller to Bobby’s heard the world order had changed, at least on Dive Crescent? At least in the Tauranga institution that is the eponymous Bobby’s Fresh Fish Market.

All manner of people

Because Bobby had passed on, gone home to Matakana. And the shop was closed for now.

e picnic tables were stacked and stored, the sun shades apping gently, it was respectfully quiet.

Normally Bobby’s re-opens for the week on a Wednesday. Normally there’s someone behind the counter yelling ‘76’ three or four times because ‘76’ doesn’t understand they are number ‘76’ and their order is ready. at’s all part of the charm.

Normally, there’d be all manner of people –blue collars, white collars, dog collars, no collars – all a cionados of a deep-fried x standing, slavering, waiting. And on any normal day they’d be rewarded. But not that day, because that Wednesday, things weren’t normal.

Not so long ago we had a work potluck lunch where no luck was needed. We were all winners.

A bunch of ‘Sunners’ ordered in a cubic metre of

A parcel of perfection – smell it, taste it, love it. Cheers Bobby.

Brook Sabin/Stu .

Bobby’s stu for lunch, and we wolfed it. Enthusiasm and output slumped in the o ce that afternoon – post sh and chip inertia. Wasn’t it Heraclitus who said everything changes except change itself – well Bobby didn’t get the email because the shop has been stuck in its own delightful time warp since I arrived in town 10 years ago. A lick of paint or two, but nothing’s really changed. Again it’s part of the magnetism. It’s also a bit of an achievement to weave a Greek philosopher and a Maori chippy magnate into the same sentence.

e signs

And there are the signs; lots of them. ‘Job vacancy – apply within’ despite a shop bursting with sta there’s always opportunity for an enterprising soul who owns white gumboots and knows the di erence between a sole and a ounder. Another sign on etiquette: ‘Please return all trays, salt and vinegar’ – do people really need to be reminded? And: ‘Please be patient and kind’ – now that’s a message we should all be taking on board at this time.

Some people are never happy because another sign apologises for Bobby’s not making burgers or crumbed sh – I admire that.

Stick to your knitting and knit well.

I hadn’t seen the ‘Gold Card Wednesday’ sign before. at’s my demographic – I wonder if there’s something in it for me. Perhaps a few extra chips or a seat while I wait and take in a one-act reality play on cooking up sh and chips.

It’s a riveting watch – funny as all hell. I’ll be in next Wednesday guys, and I will pause and remember a good man gone. RIP Bobby. en I will eat with gusto. Animal fat and all.

Make darling Layla’s day...

Layla has given so much since we met her, raising her own babies and another three orphaned kittens she took in as her very own. She really has been the best mumma in her short life so far; now she deserves to be the priority!

Layla is the biggest smoocher once she gets to know you – or sooner if you happen to be holding roast chicken! She has a beautiful little chirp and

likes to tell you about her day; she will jump up to for pats and scratches when you enter the room. is sweet girl would love a quiet home where she can really shine and be your loving companion.

Please message us if you think Layla could be for you. To nd out more, message the RRR Facebook page: www.facebook.com/RRRFeline

FIRST HEARING CENTRE

Hunter Wells

Photo:

Getting the heart of our city

pumping

Looking back, then forward...

is is my last Sun column for 2022 and I want to wish readers well for a relaxed, happy and safe Christmas.

I hope you and your loved ones enjoy special time together and that we can all enjoy the summer weather our region is known for.

Highlights

As you look back at 2022, hopefully you’re able to appreciate the highlights that made you smile. It’s been a positive year for me. I’ve enjoyed my varied portfolios and have especially liked working in the primary industries space again. Since growing up on

our Te Puna kiwifruit orchard I’ve always had a love for horticulture, as well as for agriculture and sheries. However, I’m hearing a growing number of complaints from constituents and there is increasing anger in our community. People are upset, scared and concerned about what this country’s economic challenges will mean for them and their families, their businesses, their jobs, their homes.

As the National Party’s

con rmed Bay of Plenty candidate in 2023’s General Election, I’m excited about what possibilities lie ahead for my electorate and my country. It is time for change and I, together with the National caucus, will do everything possible to make this change happen next year.

ank you

Have a safe and happy Christmas and New Year. ank you to those who are working through the festive season to provide hospitality to locals and visitors.

My team and I will take a break December 22-January 13. We look forward to working with you, and for you, in 2023.

Further action taken to tackle crime

As we head into the holiday season, I want to let you know that making sure Rotorua communities are safe places to live, work and raise a family is a top priority for me.

As a Government, we’ve been focused on getting under the problems that cause crime as well as making sure rm consequences are in place.

Youth o ending has been trending down for the past few years, but the recent spike that we’ve seen in ram raids is really worrying.

It’s upsetting for communities and creates victims. Clearly more needed to be done.

Practical measures

at’s why the Government has announced a package of practical measures to tackle retail crime, alongside new initiatives to partner with small businesses and local councils. It includes a new fog cannon subsidy scheme, which will be open to

all small shops and dairies in NZ.

And we’ve extended the Retail Crime Prevention Fund to help businesses that have been the victim of an aggravated robbery, or a ram raid, to access better security measures, like CCTV systems, shatter-proof glass and bollards.

Funding

We’ve also made funding available to councils where this kind of crime is prevalent – in Auckland, Hamilton and the BOP – matching them dollar-for-dollar to help fund better crime prevention measures that they see working for their communities. at’s good news for Rotorua! Together, all these things make this the most signi cant crime prevention nancial package in recent memory and they add to the measures this Government is already taking to combat crime. Read this column in full at: www.sunlive.co.nz

Santa’s Christmas Grotto opens

Katikati’s Santa Christmas Grotto opens today, Friday, December 16, and is free for all to come and view a range of festive displays daily until Wednesday, December 28.

e grotto has six displays to see, with admission via gold

coin donation into a wishing well. Santa will be onsite for sel e photos as well at set times. e grotto is open 9am-4pm weekdays and 10am-2pm weekends inside e Junction eatre in e Arts Junction, 36 Main Rd, Katikati.

How to achieve simplicity...

“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication”Leonardo Da Vinci.

How often do you manage to complicate things that then lead to more stress in your life? At Christmas, you probably desire more simplicity – not more stress. So how can you bring this about? It can help by focusing on your biggest intention

in life, then making decisions to allow this intention

to in uence you in all the events and actions that occur in your day. What’s your biggest intention? e one that a ects all other areas of your life?

If you’d like to know more , phone Mary Parker, e Fast Track Coach, on 021 258 2145, or visit: www. thefasttrackcoach.co.nz

Give blood this summer!

is summer, the New Zealand Blood Service is calling on Kiwis to give blood, plasma – and hope to others.

NZBS needs people donate blood or plasma in the lead-up to Christmas and into the summer.

e Service estimates it needs to collect more than 5000 units of blood and plasma every week to enable it to continue to meet demand and give hope to those facing an unseen emergency.

Always a need

“We are approaching the time when we all take a well-earned break from our normal life, but the reality is people still get sick, require ongoing treatment, have accidents and have babies. is continues throughout the lead up to Christmas and the summer, all of which means the demand for blood and plasma doesn’t

go away either,” says NZBS communications manager Asuka Burge.

“Last year 53,537 units of blood, plasma and platelets were issued across Aotearoa between December to February. is summer we’re forecasting a four per cent increase in demand during the same period due to general increased usage we’ve seen during the course of 2022.”

Easy to donate

To make it easy to donate wherever you are over the summer, Asuka suggests downloading the NZBlood Donor app where you can check your eligibility, search for a donation location using geo-location, check available bookings and book your next donation slot.

e NZBlood Donor app is free to download from the Appstore and Google Play. Or to book an appointment to donate, visit: www.nzblood.co.nz or call 0800 448 325.

Stop sunburn with sunscreen – not makeup!

I am using makeup with SPF30. Do I still need to wear sunscreen? is is a question we get asked a lot; and the answer is: ‘Yes!’

Reason 1

We tend to apply foundation in a thin layer on the face, but sunscreen should be applied generously to work well. To protect yourself from sun damage, you would need about ve layers of

Skin cancer can develop at any time.

foundation, which is quite a strong make-up look! You will need one teaspoon of sunscreen to cover your face, ears, neck and décolletage.

Reason 2

While your make-up will last all day, your sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours –or sooner if you are in water or sweating.

Reason 3:

Cosmetics don’t have the same SPF testing standards that proper sunscreens must meet. Make-up with SPF is a useful start, but sadly, it doesn’t replace the need for ‘proper’ sunscreen under New Zealand’s harsh UV conditions.

If you need advice on sun protection products, or you want an assessment of the sun damage on your skin, come and see one of our friendly team at Skinspots.

Achieve glowing skin on your wedding day!

Weddings are a topic of conversation lately here at Jamele!

Skincare therapist Kathryn Hancock is getting married in April, our former marketing manager Kathryn Overall just got engaged, and our new marketing manager Hollie Jones is still glowing after her gorgeous DIY wedding in Aongatete.

Start early

It’s a great time to pass on advice about how we can help you achieve beautiful skin on your special day. Firstly, start early. Six months before your wedding come and see us for a one-hour skin consultation. It is essential to use good quality skincare products that are tailored to your skin type and skin goals.

Don’t play guessing games with your skin when it comes to your wedding day. Let us fast-track your progress with trusted advice that is just right for you. Take an essential fatty acid supplement daily to support glowing skin from within.

We recommend Bestow Beauty Plus Oil.

Hydration

Book in a facial treatment for one week before your wedding day. is provides a huge hydration boost and will help your skin feel soft and look

radiant. e Dermaviduals Bespoke Facial is very popular as it has an alginate mask, which leaves the skin positively glowing. Add a lash and brow tint to give shape to the face and create a nice

Give the gift of relaxation

your massage – bliss!

Baywave Massage erapy is in a handy location with lots of parking and has a couples’ massage room available. ere is also a steam room, sauna and spa onsite for wellness options to complement and enhance the massage experience.

Full range

base for your wedding make-up.

We also have some beautiful pampering packages if you want to

bring your bridal party together for a luxurious treat in the lead-up to the big day. Take time to relax.

A massage is just what’s needed after the busy silly season.

Do you need to nd a present for the person who has everything? Are you looking for something to sneak under the tree for yourself? Do you just need a break from Christmas shopping?

Give the gift of enhanced wellbeing this year with a massage voucher.

Physical and mental wellness is such a crucial part of day-to-day life that massage should no longer be perceived as a ‘personal treat’ but as a critical component to achieving overall wellbeing.

Boost and refresh

Massage not only relieves tension and stress by addressing those underlying aches and pains, the simple act of taking a break from the hustle and bustle of life can boost your mood and refresh your mind. Just what’s needed after the busy silly season!

Bay Venues o ers traditional, remedial and specialty massages from two handy locations: on-site at the Mount Hot Pools and Baywave.

Massage at the Mount Hot Pools provides a unique experience where you can soak in the only hot ocean water pools in the world before or after

Massages range from $50 for half an hour, through to $160 for specialty massages that include keeping the beauty products used in your massage. To review the full range and to book, visit: mounthotpools.co.nz Baywave Massage will be closed from January 16 to February 13, 2023.

HORIZONS

Suicide Loss Support Group

Rest, relax & unwind

Papamoa

2nd Tuesday of each month 10am - 11:30am

Papamoa Family Services 35e Hartford Avenue Papamoa

Tauranga

3rd Tuesday of each month 6pm - 7:30pm

Grief Support Services 147 Chadwick Rd Greerton

We warmly invite you to our safe space to find and offer hope and make connections with others who understand grief after a loss to suicide. Suitable for age 18+

Amy Colonna 021 0903 9568 amy@griefsupport.org.nz www.griefsupport.org.nz

BOOK NOW mounthotpools.co.nz

Churches Active In Our Community

The first Christmas

e four Sundays before Christmas are called Advent – a time of waiting and preparing for Christ in history (Christmas), while paying attention to Christ in mystery (the ongoing work of Christ today), and looking ahead to Christ in majesty (when all God hopes for this world is ful lled).

Advent reminds us that Christmas is more than a day of presents and food, it is a celebration of God’s faithfulness to this world and the hope that swords will be made into ploughshares and children and lions will feed together (Isaiah) – where relationships between people and between humanity and creation are healed.

e themes of Advent are hope, peace, joy, and love. We all long for these things. But for many, Christmas is hard.

e rst time without a loved one. Struggling with grief, health issues, or not enough to pay for food and housing, all with the constant demand to buy to nd a real Christmas.

And for many living in war or the e ects of climate change, or as refugees far from home.

e rst Christmas is the story of a baby born among the animals, whose family ed as refugees with the cries of those killed by Herod behind them, and eventually living in a poor community in the caves of Nazareth.

Christmas is about God’s commitment to those who need hope, peace, love, and joy the most.

So instead of focussing on what we want this Christmas, how about joining others in giving hope through groups like Christian World Service or Salvation Army?

Rev. John Hebenton.

Churches Active In Our Community

May you find Light in your life

“A star lled the sky with light on the rst Christmas morning: It lit up the stable room where the Baby was born!” ese are words of one of the myriad of songs sung by Christians celebrating this festive season.

Jesus Christ is spoken of as ‘Light of the World’ and the star mentioned in the song is often used as a centrepiece of festive decorations.

e theme of ‘Light’ echoes through most religions worldwide.

Hindu faith has the Aarti ceremony, in which a handheld ame is a symbol of the presence of e Lord.

For Jews, the seven-branched golden menorah burned continuously in the ancient temple of Jerusalem. e seven lit candles carry for today’s Jews a sense of this sacred history.

e Baha’i faith teaches that justice is the brightest light in the

world. e Qur’an teaches Muslims that ‘God is the Light of Heaven and Earth’.

Te Ao Māori brings us Matariki, a whole constellation of stars whose appearance marks the seasonal turning from dark to light.

Sikhs say the spiritual wisdom given by the Guru shines brightly and the darkness has been dispelled. e Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints lights up its temples.

From Jainism comes the teaching: “Selfassessment is the only light to cure inner darkness.”

Light is present in every faith or none. Each faith o ers a di erent way of walking in the Light.

e Light is limitless. May you nd Light in your life; whether or not you celebrate this season.

Mary Rose, Tauranga Moana Interfaith Council.

Tauranga stadium lunacy

Tauranga Domain’s croquet, bowls, lawn tennis and the kids’ playground are all under threat so quite rightly should be morti ed and incensed with Commissioners latest $170 million concrete jungle proposal!

We already have a stadium, it is called Baypark, acquired via ex-mayor Stuart Crosby and ex-CEO town in 2007 from Bob Clarkson for $12 million to continue using as a concert venue/speedway track and rugby ground, having already hosted NPC and Ranfurly Shield games there – capacity is 20,000 seats, 3500 carparks and 135 toilets. Mind you the idiot brigade in 2011 then erected the massive Trustpower Arena Events Centre nextdoor when it should have been at Greerton Reserve.

For a maximum of only ve NPC rugby games each, with crowds of less than 5000 a year, Tauranga Domain is good – but east end of the grandstand could be extended. Rejig seating and use temporary stands as they do currently on Cameron Rd side. Tauranga already has excellent hockey, athletic, cricket elite gym and soccer facilities available.

All stadiums worldwide lose money, are insolvent with horri c annual OPEX – short for Ongoing Operating Expenditure costs.

Want evidence? Just check out WACA sports stadium in Perth, the Melbourne Cricket Ground – known to many as MCG and the Sydney Cricket Grounds – Aussie cricket grounds with zero crowds.

Clearly the Commissioners have no idea about sport, no nancial nous and in two years have not even addressed the city’s essential

infrastructure, which was the invalid reason given for Commissioners’ appointment.

e Commissioners’ brief was to put things right – not to create the scal and practical mayhem that currently abounds on our streets.

Rob Paterson, Ohauiti.

Tauranga City Council Chair AnneTolley responds:

e proposal to construct a boutique stadium at Tauranga Domain is currently going through a business case process. Tauranga City Council is one of the organisations involved in that process, which is being led by Priority One.

e study will consider the nancial feasibility of any potential stadium development.

If that proposal does proceed, alternative locations and facilities would be provided for any organisations which were directly impacted.

It would also be the subject of a full community consultation process, so that everyone could have their say on whether they think the proposal has merit.

Baypark Stadium is not used for rugby matches because, as we understand it, the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union does not consider it to be a suitable venue. e only signi cant events it currently hosts are Speedway meetings.

e Commission has adopted a long-term plan, which includes an array of much-needed community amenity investments, many of which are projects which arguably should have been undertaken years ago. Some projects are already underway and others will follow, as planning and budgetary processes allow.

Political tokenism? The promise of an MP

I doubt that many of the nonMaori MPs would be able to translate correctly the te Reo names of the signage of all government departments without the subsequent English name being given.

It seems completely illogical that te Reo is given precedence over English, when it is spoken uently by only four per cent of the population against 95 per cent of uent English speakers. Political tokenism? ough te Reo is an o cial language, one may reasonably ask why it has such preference? Would most New Zealanders recognise Manatū Ahu Matua as the Minister of Primary Industries? How would foreign business people cope?

Bryan Johnson, Ōmokoroa

e promises of an MP

Should they mean a lot to you and me?

Or should we believe them at all?

When promised big changes, turn out to be very small?

Huge fanfares announce something fantastic on its way...

But turns out to be lukewarm.

Co ee and ‘wa e’ cakes on a tray. ere again running a country must be hard..

With so few choices and many dissenting voices...

Democracy is a beast with many faces.

A slow ponderous beast, and not designed for the races.

Ken Jones, Katikati.

Changing facility to make city inclusive For the love of Christmas

A new accessible changing station has opened in My Drury with a height-adjustable toilet and sink, ceiling hoist and adult changing table in the goal of creating a more inclusive city.

Tauranga Special School requested the facility, supported by the Tauranga Disability Advisory Group, to give everyone the opportunity to enjoy themselves in our coastal environment.

It’s the rst fully accessible changing facility in Tauranga, with

Changing Places NZ to become a facility within its New Zealand network too.

e facility is locked to maximise availability for people who need it, when they need it, and to reduce risk of damage to the facility, its xtures and ttings. It is open for access 7am-8pm daily.

e facility can be accessed by using a Tauranga City Council swipe tag, a Changing Places NZ swipe tag, or over the on-site intercom.

Change Point Church is hoping to share light and love with the community for this year’s Christmas.

e church is hosting host their contemplative interactive journey ‘When Love Came Down’ from December 17-23 at their facility 135 Poike Rd.

e event is family-friendly with stocking decorating for children, storytelling, music, a magni cent Christmas tree to admire and hot drinks and food.

Inside the interactive area there will also be a wall for people to write on. “We’re just asking people to ponder and think about what love means to them because we’re very aware that the world is getting very busy and quite stressful especially in the last couple of years,” says event organiser Ruth Tuiraviravi. Ruth is looking forward to people having personal interactions while enjoying the space and escaping life’s busyness. “It’s just having that space to slow down and listen to a Christmas story, listen to some music, hang around in our

cafe… and just enjoy the relationships and one another – like literally be whanau.”

e church has been doing Christmas journey events for about 20 years, says Ruth, and has often hosted productions and shows. is year is di erent.

“It’s far more around people because post-Covid we just want a bit more emphasis on relationships and people, and providing a place of peace in the crazy… and for people just to know that they’re

Children can take away their decorated stocking at the end of journey with a candy cane, and each family will be gifted a little wooden heart.

“We’ll be giving hearts away just as a symbolic way to take love home

‘When Love Came Down’ is at Changepoint Church, 135 Poike Rd, from December 17-23.

Georgia Minkhorst

with you.”

Taryn Angus. Photo: John Borren.

Kaosis on New Year’s Eve

I nd it a bit alarming that next year is only a couple of weeks away. Yes, of course Christmas is just around the corner, but two weeks until 2023 seems too soon.

Let’s immediately look for things on New Year’s Eve...

ere is – surprise! – a lot happening, but the big bash at Totara Street caught my eye because I was all set to write about its previous incarnation back in June. en the promoter asked me not to.

It’s been a year like that. I forget how many shows I’ve written about that have subsequently been cancelled by Covid.

Or, in the case of the Auckland Blues Festival, by weather. Several times I’ve had to rewrite columns because shows have been cancelled even before I can get the copy to my editor.

But this was di erent.

We were planning all sorts, including a competition, ticket giveaways; the usual promotion that helps sell a really big show. en I had a call from the organiser. It had already sold out.

We did no promotion. I didn’t even get to write about it.

But now it’s back: Overload 2 - Totara St New Year’s Tribute Festival.

As y’all might have spotted, I don’t regularly write about ‘tribute bands’. ere are many reasons – aside from being an unreconstructed musical snob – but I make an exception here for two reasons. Firstly, the sheer scale of the thing, with ve bands playing and ve bands being ‘tributed’. Secondly, one of the bands is not a tribute band. at’s the band I’m most interested in.

Details

Okay. Let’s get the details done. Doors open for Overload at 6pm December 31. It’s an R18 event and tickets, from the Totara St website, are $40 or $50 depending on how soon you buy them. And what can you expect by way of music?

ere’s New Zealand Black Sabbath tribute act, After Forever, which has been covering Ozzy-era Sabbath for more than 20 years. Expect: ‘Iron Man’, ‘Paranoid’, ‘War Pigs’. en it’s a set of Foo Fighters’ songs from the Faith Fighters. Expect ‘All My Life’, ‘Best of You’, ‘Everlong’, all the

Foo’s greatest hits as well as a few deep cuts for real Dave Grohl fanatics. Also on the bill is Australasia’s Motorhead tribute band, ’ Bast*rds. Apparently these guys are not just a covers band, but claim to “live and breathe the Motorhead personas”.

Whether that includes Lemmy’s legendary intake of methamphetamines remains to be seen. Expect: ‘Ace of Spades’, ‘Orgasmatron’, ‘Overkill’. But wait, there’s more! Faith Fighters also do a full set of classic Faith No More tracks. Expect: ‘We Care A Lot’, ‘Epic’, ‘ e Real ing’. And then just after midnight e Firestarters will end the night with a set of Prodigy songs including ‘Firestarter’, ‘Breathe’ and ‘Smack my B*tch Up’.

We can only hope this goes better than Prodigy’s incendiary Woodstock 99 set as seen in recent documentaries.

Kaosis

e tribute bands may be the ticketselling draw but it’s the other band that interests me. at is local out t Kaosis, a band that has largely skipped the scene here in favour of conquering the world.

Kaosis was founded by vocalist and producer X3N in 2018. e eight-piece band has since toured New Zealand,

Australia, and Japan multiple times and has played major festivals including Rhythm n Vines, Dead of Winter Festival, and Psycho Circus. Kaosis has released a debut album, ‘Hitech –Lowlife’, and in November added a bonus Rarities EP to celebrate the album reaching one million plays on Spotify. ey have just returned from a sold-out Australian tour, and are signed to the European label, Atypeek Music, known for their bizarre and highly creative roster of artists.

And they are certainly that. ey present a show of wild extravagance. e music is heavy industrial nu-metal and the full stage show includes lasers, smoke, dancers, and cold spark pyro.

It is genuinely spectacular. And they have a busy summer coming up, headlining a bunch of festivals, including Nemesis Fest, Distortion Fest, and Frenzy. So grab those tickets –if there are any left when you read this!

Kaosis. Photo: supplied.

Free entry to international tennis on show in Pāpāmoa

Professional tennis players from all over the globe are hitting Tauranga this weekend to have a swing at winning the inaugural EVES Open being hosted in Pāpāmoa.

e EVES Open – ITF World Tennis Tour: Tauranga is on from Sunday, December 18, through to Saturday, December 24 at Venture Developments WBOP Tennis Centre in Gordon Spratt Reserve. And it is free to watch!

e professional event for men and women with o cial ATP and WTA world ranking points has a total prize pool of NZ$70,000 – and has drawn players from more than 25 countries plus a strong Kiwi contingent.

Eyes on Pāpāmoa

Tauranga Business Chamber chief executive Matt Cowley says the tournament provides a fantastic opportunity to showcase our region to the world during summer. “Many tennis enthusiasts across the globe will have their eyes on Pāpāmoa as they watch the sport’s future rising talent.”

Matt says the EVES Open will also bring additional tourist visitor nights and expenditure into the Pāpāmoa community, “which will be appreciated by local businesses”.

e ITF World Tennis Tour has two events in New Zealand this month – in Wellington and Tauranga. Vicki Semple, sponsorship and events manager at EVES Real Estate, says the EVES Open will not only bring economic bene ts to

Tauranga and Pāpāmoa, “but it will create a buzz and sense of pride in the community”.

“ is international tennis tournament is a perfect example of that and in partnership with Tennis NZ, we would love to grow the EVES Open into an annual and iconic event on Tauranga’s summer calendar.”

Electric atmosphere

Vicki says hosting the event is a team e ort and would not be possible without the support of Tauranga City Council and TECT, local businesses, Tennis Western Bay of Plenty, Pāpāmoa Tennis Club, “and of course the community who we hope will pack out the stands and bring an electric atmosphere”.

International tennis action starts 11am daily, plus activities for kids are on o er 11am-1pm plus there’s courtside hospitality, music and entertainment from 3pm.

Tennis NZ chief executive Julie Paterson is excited to see international tennis back in Tauranga. “ ere are a lot of ourishing clubs in the region and having elite tennis in town is a fantastic way to ensure visibility of our sport and fuel participation growth even further.”

e Eves Open – ITF World Tennis Tour: Tauranga is on December 18-24 at WBOP Tennis Centre, Gordon Spratt Reserve, Pāpāmoa. Play begin 11am daily, with entry free to spectators. Courtside hospitality is available to book at: www.tennis.kiwi/evesopen

Cooking up excitement to get volunteering at Classic Flyers

If you’re keen to try your hand at aviation curation, Classic Flyers is looking for interested aspiring crew for their museum exhibit display team.

ere’s a free Christmas volunteer barbecue on Wednesday, December 21, from 1pm, where interested parties can meet the team and get an idea of what’s involved.

e museum exhibit display team do an amazing job of

creating displays and exhibits in and around the Classic Flyers aviation facility.

If you’re handy with a paintbrush, if you like the idea of assisting with things like light construction, setting up display scenes and even liaising with suppliers to make it all happen –you might be the perfect t for the team.

ere is plenty of training and instruction provided and a

lot of camaraderie.

Volunteers generally operate to a ‘morning/afternoon’ shift roster during a week, with the standard pattern for most volunteers being two-four-hour shifts on di erent days.

For more information, email: enquire@classic yersnz.com or visit: www.classic yersnz.com/ aboutus/Membership/ Volunteers.html

International players get to enjoy the Bay while in town to play tennis, while spectators get to watch the action for free.

Photo: supplied.

Start summer with a

Get ready to make a splash this summer by trying your luck in the Tauranga Moana Bomb Comp this Sunday, December 18, at the public wharf along Tauranga City’s waterfront!

e free event will be the perfect way to kick o summer with some fun water action – and is one of a range of events that Tauranga City Council is hosting this summer aimed at injecting vibrancy into the city, says TCC general manager city development & partnerships Gareth Wallis.

Popular past time

“We thought holding a friendly competition would be a great way to celebrate the end of the school year, give people a chance to display their talents and bring our community together to have a bit of fun,” says Gareth. “Bombing has become a really popular past time for people of all ages – and we’ve got the perfect spot for it along the waterfront in our city centre.”

Whether people are participants, or just keen to watch and get splashed, there will be live music from John Michaelz Black Brothers Band and free ice-cream and a sausage sizzle.

Prizes

e competition will be judged by Hads Te Huia from Bomblife New Zealand. “We’ve got some really talented ‘manu’ and ‘staple’ pros in our community so I can’t wait to see them in action,” says Gareth. “I’m also really looking forward to seeing people out and about enjoying our city centre and discovering everything that’s on o er there.”

Spot prizes and winning prizes will be given out on the day, including Prezzie Card vouchers and bomb comp caps. e event runs 12 noon-3pm on Sunday, December 18 – and the competition is open to those aged 10-plus. Register online at: https://www. mytauranga.co.nz/summer Spots are lling fast!

Start the New Year with language

Above: Jett Dyson, 13, bombs o Tauranga’s waterfront wharf.

Mount Maunganui Language Centre was hit hard by Covid-19 and the border closures in 2020, which brought international education to a halt.

MMLC continued running classes until late-2021, then went into a hibernation period as the border remained closed, meaning no new student arrivals.

Director Geo Butler is now pleased to let the local community know that MMLC will be re-opening its doors to students on

January 9, 2023.

e language school is placing students in homestays now and they are still looking for interested families in the Mount Maunganui/Papamoa/ Tauranga areas for hosting.

Students have varied preferences, so older or younger families, singles, couples, all are welcome to host.

Homestay families receive weekly compensation for each student, so if you have a spare room get in touch with MMLC at: 07 575 0146 or email: info@mmlc.co.nz for more information.

Georgia Minkhorst

Jett Dyson, 13, Axel Riley, 14, Jae Dyson, 15, get wet at Tauranga’s waterfront wharf. Photos: David Hall.

MMLC will re-open its doors to international students on January 9, 2023.

Photo: supplied.

your

home summer ready

Now that summer is here, there’s no better time to cool your home – and Graham from Tauranga Air Conditioning suggests getting in sooner rather than later while they have stock.

“Currently, we have a pre-Christmas sale on Haier heat humps with a cooling function, so get in touch now to secure the units we have in stock.”

Graham has plenty of top-quality brands and prides himself on his same-day installation policy.

He has more than 40 years’ experience in the

Graham says his van is usually remembered by customers.

industry and has been keeping Tauranga homes cool for more than 40 years.

He aims to o er good, honest advice and recommends only the best brands, as suggested by the consumer guide – something Graham and the team stick to closely.

Graham, who is a New Zealand trade certi ed refrigeration engineer, says the person who quotes and installs is always the same person to complete the job.

“We pride ourselves on our old-fashioned service,” says Graham.

“Our motto is ‘same day install and we come when you call’.”