The Weekend Sun - 24 February 2023

Patience vs pace!

Arson won’t put a stop to the Bay of Plenty Rapid Chess tournament this year, with players coming from up and down the country to take part in the competition tomorrow, February 25.

In the entire 16 years it’s been held, re gutting the tournament venue is the only

thing that’s halted the chess players and pieces in their path.

“Last year there was an arson at the Masonic Centre venue so that’s the only thing that’s stopped us,” says tournament organiser Caleb Wright of Mount Maunganui RSA Chess Club.

Playing since 1988, Caleb will show o his A Grade level skills at the tournament this Saturday, February 25. “To be a good player you’ve got to have some patience, calculation, strategy, and you’ve got to use common sense as well. You can take some risks but not be too reckless.”

e chess games played this weekend will be quick rather than hours long. “ ey start with 25 minutes each then there’s a bonus ve seconds every time players make a move.” If you know the art of the black and white squares, get along! Read more on page 9. Photo: John Borren.

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‘Nice’– a throwaway word

It was one of those...well ‘NICE’ moments.

And God knows, we’re all in need of an urgent intravenous injection of ‘niceness’ as we grapple with the aftermath of a deadly tropical cyclone called Gabrielle and 6.3 magnitude earthquake that had Wellington rocking and rolling.

Gabrielle translates as ‘God is my strength’ or ‘woman of God’ – but I suspect God would want to distance himself from Gabby’s fury on this occasion. Anyhow – niceness!

Nice gesture #1

A ‘nice’ young couple are dealing with a tyre puncture by the entrance to the Four Square in Katikati. ey are trying to put a “space-saver” on their ‘fart-on-roller-skates’ – a tiny car – ‘compact’ is the o cial manufacturer term. Everyone, bar none, going in or coming out of that Four Square was stopping to ask if they were okay, if they needed help. ey didn’t, but each time the

couple would stop what they were doing, chat and politely decline o ers. en, just as they got back to work, someone else would step up to o er help and they’d go through it all again. Niceness in abundance.

“But because of all the niceness, a ve-minute job took 45 minutes,” observed the observer. “It was very funny, and lovely and nice all at the same time.” ey do ‘nice’ very well in Katikati and that’s why the observer loves her wee town.

Interesting that a couple of days later, the Katikati observer passed a young guy dealing with a at tyre on Takitimu Drive. If there was any ‘niceness’, it drove past at 80km/hr.

I always considered ‘nice’ to be one of those nebulous, saccharine and unsatisfying words. He’s a nice person – someone between a saint and a serial killer. It’s a nice day –do we take a brolly or break out the Speedos? Nice cake – which you bury it under your tongue until you can spit it out later. at’s a nice dress – a face-saving compliment covering everything from stylish to

cheap, tacky, tawdry, trashy or garish. Yep, ‘nice’ covers it. But we are sticking with that word ‘nice’ today because great things, famous things, really nice things happen in the name of ‘nice’.

NZ is collectively NICE

Remember wee Eve van Grafhorst – born premature, she contracted AIDS from life-saving blood transfusions. Fearmongering drove her out of her home town in Australia, and she was welcomed with open arms in Hastings, New Zealand. at was nice.

It was also nice when in 1987 an unprotected and gloveless Princess Diana strode bravely into a London AIDS clinic and shook hands with an AIDS patient. With just one nice, compassionate gesture, the Princess challenged the false belief you could die from AIDS by just touching someone. We all felt the niceness.

NICE is a sacri ce

en 24 years later after the nuclear power plant crisis in Fukushima, Japan, there was a collective outpouring of niceness. Two hundred Japanese pensioners volunteered to risk working at the radioactive site rather than exposing the young workforce. ey gured any cancer they might develop would take 20 to 30 years to manifest by which time they’d be dead anyway. at’s at the upper extremes of being nice. Niceness can occur in many guises and on many levels. Here’s how it happens at home.

Spontaneous NICENESS

Leap forward 11 years to a cheap and cheerful barber shop on Cameron Rd. Two chairs are going at out on a busy Friday morning. e pressure is on. e hair is piling up on the oor. A gru old guy in a wife-beater and Stubbies has had his eece groomed vaguely respectable. He pays up, then just before leaving, grabs the broom and sweeps the barber shop oor clean. “Saves a job,” he says cheerfully before whistling his way out the door. NICE touch mate.

NICE is beating the grumps

ere’s a woman who walks every morning before work and steadfastly greets everyone she passes, often the same people on her regular route. “After a while we become ‘Hullo’ friends, we exchange greetings and smiles. We’ve lost our stranger-ness. at’s a nice feeling.

And the guy who walks to work and picks up 15 pieces of rubbish every day. “I can’t x the problem, but I can contribute to the solution.”

Do some math – 15,000 of us, 10 per cent of the Tauranga’s population, each pick up 15 pieces of rubbish a day, then tatty Tauranga would be tidy town. NICE work!

Perhaps the personi cation of niceness at the moment is the cherubic troubadour, Ed Sheeran, who’s just charmed his way through the country. Cynics may call it smart marketing, but I prefer to think he’s just a nice bloke. He reckons the main thing you have to remember on this journey – in life I think he means – is be nice to everyone and always smile.

He can a ord NICENESS – damned near nine million people have paid $350 a ticket to watch his last 260 shows. NICE guy makes NICE coin.

NICE is getting someone wrong

A big, burly, heavily-tattooed guy follows my friend in the lunchtime queue in a local bakery. He had one of those wild ZZ Top beards with its own ecosystem. Friend reminds himself not to cross BBHTG in an alley on a dark night. However when friend’s Eftpos card refuses to work, and he’s standing stranded with an unpaid-for pie, two club sandwiches and a raging hunger, who steps up and o ers to pay for his lunch?

Friend says he must remember not to prejudge people. at was a year ago, big burly heavily tattooed guy’s NICENESS lingers on.

TINO RAWE – very NICE

I must have looked lost, and I was...on a ride somewhere near a stunningly beautiful marae in Judea on a Sunday afternoon. An elegant Māori woman with a moko kauae was mowing her berm. She senses my hopelessness, turns o the mower, wipes away the perspiration and asks if she can help. I say: “I hope so, cos I am lost.” “No, you aren’t lost cos I know where you are,” she chuckles.

She directs me out of trouble and back to the harbour track. And with a ‘Kia pai tō rā’, she cranks up the mower. ank you, I’ll have a NICE day, because of our very NICE encounter. Had a NICE moment recently? Please share it with us. Make us all feel good.

Email: hunter@thesun.co.nz

Hon Jan Tinetti

Labour List MP

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

Authorised by Hon Jan Tinetti MP, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

Mammoth mentor callout

Rallying support on the rail

Get along to the Memorial Park Railway Tauranga to support the Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal this Sunday, February 26.

Using their railways and locomotives for good, the memorial park railway team will be providing rides to rally donations for the NZ Red Cross/NZ Herald Cyclone Gabrielle appeal.

All ticket sales will be donated, says club secretary Jason Flannery.

A programme to help young people in the Western Bay of Plenty community is on the lookout for 108 mentors from Katikati through to Te Puke – with 38 mentors needed for Te Puke alone.

Project K is a Graeme Dingle foundation programme designed for Year 10 students, building their con dence, teaching them life skills, promoting good health and encouraging a positive attitude. e programme runs for 14 months and the foundation is on the lookout for 108 mentors from Katikati, Mount, Ōtūmoetai through to Te Puke – with 38 mentors needed for Te Puke.

“ at’s a lot of students that need that one on one mentoring,” says Dave Gillies, who has been a Project K mentor for eight years and is now mentoring his fourth student.

“If you feel you can commit half an hour to an hour a week out of your life – then that’s a really good thing to do and you’ll see these young people develop.”

See a future

Dave says when he meets students starting Project K, they don’t see who they are as a person or possibility for themselves. at changes, however. “By the end of the programme they can

see what they’re capable of. ey can see a future.

“ ey can see a possibility – that for me is the biggest thing because if you can’t see possibility for yourself, then you can’t see a future.”

So what does mentoring look like? Dave says: “Anything from sitting talking, playing cards, going for a walk, going for a drive, mountain biking, shing, all sorts of stu ”.

He adds good qualities for a mentor are: “good listening, awareness around what people say and what they don’t say, acknowledging, and ability to build trust”. rough mentoring, Dave’s developed greater awareness of himself. “I can re ect on my kids and how I could’ve done things slightly di erently as well, and I have been then been able to share that with students I’ve been mentoring.”

Give something back

He says you don’t know how good you can be as a mentor. “You’re always better than you think you are, so just give it a punt, give it a go, you can only help…and just believe in yourself that you can do something good for these students. It’s challenging and rewarding at the same time because every person is di erent. For me, it’s around wanting to give something back.”

Training for new mentors begins March.

For more information, visit: dinglefoundation.org.nz/project-k

Georgia Minkhorst

“ e railway doesn’t cost us anything to run, it’s time for us; if we can turn that time into something else that helps those

in need.” e club also held a donation railway run last weekend for the appeal, which raised $2020.

“ e day’s runnings could have gone in the bank and maybe it would be needed one day to repair a locomotive, but that is not what’s important this Sunday… it’s about the people who have been a ected.” Let’s hope this weekend sees another great show of community e ort!

e Memorial Park Railway Tauranga trains will run this Sunday, February 26, from 10am-12.30pm and 1pm-3pm, weather permitting. Tickets cost $2 per ride or 12 rides for $20.

Dave Gillies says mentoring helps both you and a young person develop as people.

Photo: John Borren.

Cameron Rd Stage 2 update next month Sports clubs to protest

Tauranga City Council will next month come back to the community to share ideas on Stage 2 of the Cameron Rd infrastructure project. From March, TCC aims to share ideas and seek public feedback on the shortlist of options and plans to upgrade Cameron Rd from Seventeenth Ave, through Gate Pa and Greerton Village, to Te Ranga in Pyes Pa, to make it safer, more attractive, and improve travel options.

“...we have been working with local iwi and talking to community organisations, local residents, schools and businesses to get an understanding of the things that are important to them,” says the Building Our Future – Cameron Rd Stage 2 update in the January 31, 2023, ENews document.

Readers can nd out more about Cameron Road Stage 2 by visiting a virtual info room at: cameronroad.ghdengage.com

Sports clubs a ected by council “extinction notices” have organised a protest against plans that could displace them from the Tauranga Domain.

Tauranga City Council’s Active Reserves Masterplans propose sweeping changes to the city’s sport facilities. e plans for Baypark, Blake Park and the Tauranga Domain include building a $170 million 8000-seat stadium at the domain. If built, the stadium would displace the Tauranga Croquet Club, Tauranga Bowling Club and demolish the all-weather athletics track.

e croquet club, Tauranga Millennium Track Trust, Tauranga Lawn Tennis Club and the Baypark Speedway Association have formed the Hands O Tauranga Domain alliance. e alliance has organised a protest at the domain on March 5 to oppose plans and create community awareness.

Suitable sites

Tauranga Millennium Track trust member Garth Mathieson told Local Democracy Reporting some of the a ected clubs were o ered relocation, but suitable sites haven’t been identi ed. “ e master plans are an extinction notice for a number of city

assets and organisations.” e trust raised $1.7m to build the world class athletics track in 2008 and don’t want to see it “ripped up” for a stadium.

Plans propose to build an athletics track at Baypark, Mount Maunganui, but the land is swampy, oods and is too small, says Garth.

It’s also situated next to a transfer station, sewage treatment plant with two fertiliser businesses nearby making it a “totally unsuitable area”.

Used by schools

Trust chairperson Malcolm Taylor says the track is used year-round by schools and athletics clubs and some clubs indicated they wouldn’t travel to Baypark if the relocation occurred.

Tauranga Croquet Club president Gretchen Benvie says the protest is important to create awareness about the plans. “People just don’t know. I don’t know whether it's apathy or it’s [the plan] just being snuck under the radar.”

Gretchen says the club had one meeting with the council – and it was at the club’s request. “[ ere’s a] lack of consultation. One meeting doesn’t make consultation.”

Sites for relocation have not been discussed with club either, says Gretchen.“ e excuse is if they

Hands of Tauranga Domain alliance members Gretchen Benvie, Michel Galloway, Mark Decke, Murray Clarkson and Garth Mathieson want the domain to stay a greenspace.

‘extinction notices’

[council] gave us any ideas and it doesn’t turn out, we might be upset. Well that’s nonsense, give us some ideas we might buy in.”

Gretchen, along with the other a ected clubs, want the green space at the domain retained. “I believe this should all be left as an open green space. It’s used all the time... it’s criminal.”

Tauranga Lawn Tennis Club’s club captain

Michel Galloway says the club faces the loss of two courts and encroachment from the stadium.

In the stadium proposal the club would have two of its courts relocated to make way for another entrance and parking.

e club would lose its view and instead have one of the stadium wall, says Michel.

“ e whole beauty of our club is that we’re in the domain and it’s a beautiful environment. It’s a shame to put a big building [on it].”

No nancial assistance

e Active Reserves Masterplans also propose to remove Trustpower Stadium from Baypark, which the speedway has called home since 2001.

e speedway association hasn’t been o ered a site for relocation, but unlike the others there hasn’t been the o er of nancial assistance.

BOPSA president Mark Decke says the cost of building a ‘like for like’ stadium now would be $100m not including the cost of land. “Where does a club come up with a hundred million dollars? No club can generate that sort of money.”

In response to the alliance’s concerns, TCC city development and partnerships general manager Gareth Wallis says the council has committed to

working alongside the relevant sporting groups and users. “Initial meetings with these groups have taken place and will continue as the project develops, so we can hear from these groups and work through any potential issues together.”

On greenspace, Wallis says: “If the community stadium does go ahead, maintaining open spaces, public access, and the provision of green space would be a key consideration in the design and planning”.

No decisions made

Asked if the commissioners planned on attending the protest, commission chair Anne Tolley replied they did not. “ e commission is very happy to meet with any organisations who are concerned about possible impacts on their activities. No decisions have been made and any future proposals would be subject to a full community consultation process, so clubs and the wider community will de nitely have the chance to share their feedback.”

Priority One CEO Nigel Tutt acknowledges the prospect of change might be challenging for some. “We have also been heartened to hear some really positive feedback by existing and future users of a community stadium. Our focus now is on completing a business case to ensure the viability around use, a ordability, and economic bene t. e business case is expected to be completed April 2023.”

e protest is 1pm Sunday, March 5 at the Tauranga Domain grandstand. Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air.

e Tauranga Millennium Track Trust raised $1.7 million to build the world class athletics track in 2008.

Lending a helping hand

e Takitimu North Link Project team is o ering their help to the community for any clean-ups or outdoor maintenance needed in the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle.

Contractors for the Takitimu North Link project, Fulton Hogan and HEB Joint Venture have been o ering help to their project neighbours in the Bethlehem area, through Wairoa and Te Mete valleys, and Te Puna. Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency’s regional manager of infrastructure delivery, Jo Wilton, says they sent out an email to residents asking after their welfare and o ering to help clean up sections, unblock drains, or anything else they require.

“Due to the weather, the team couldn’t get much construction work done so they’ve been only too happy to help those in need after Cyclone Gabrielle.”

Jo says Waka Kotahi has received about 30 responses to their community callout. “Most of the requests have been to help out with clearing trees and large branches that have come down during the cyclone.”

Others just needed some general yard work done. Eighty ve-year-old Bethlehem resident Mary Watson jumped at the opportunity to get some free garden maintenance from the project team. Mary says she can’t a ord tree and lawn workers anymore, so was thankful for the help. “ e tree person is just getting over the top as far as costs are concerned,” says Mary. “ e fact that they’ve [road work contractors] come around because they can’t work on the Takitimu North project –it was just a miracle.”

One neighbouring resident of the project responded to Waka Kotahi saying: “Fortunately we are okay and do not need help but we wanted to say how impressed we were by the email you sent out. We thought that was an incredible example of community involvement”.

Jo says the Takitimu North Link project team will be working in this “awesome community” for around ve years.

“It’s just about being good neighbours.” e restart-date for works on the Takitimu North Link project is yet to be con rmed. “As soon as weather conditions allows, the team is really keen to get back on the job,” says Jo. Georgia

Minkhorst

omas Courtney, Bethlehem resident Mary Watson and Campbell Harrison are happy all-round with the garden clean-up e orts.

Same faces, new place

After nearly half a century of operating in the heart of Greerton, the James Place Opportunity Shop will close its doors this coming Tuesday, February 28.

It won’t be for long however, and the op shop will have a new lease of life in a fresh location.

Shona Middendorf, who has been a volunteer at the op shop for 40 years, shares some of its Greerton history ahead of the move.

Shona says the op shop opened in 1974, the year her son was born. “ e op shop started in the tyre room that was attached to the Caltex service station, which was on the corner of Chadwick Rd and Cameron Rd.” en the shopping block was built in Chadwick Rd and the op shop shifted there upon completion. “We’ve been there ever since 1989.”

New beginnings

With more than 48 years in Greerton, the op shop isn’t about to leave the village yet. e shop will reopen in the Saint James Union Church at 70 Pooles Rd. “ ey’ve got a reasonable space in the church hall and that will just be partitioned o . “It’ll be quite pleasant and open, and it’ll be looked after too.”

Shona says closing the op shop based at 217 Chadwick Rd has been a nancial consideration. “We were in a situation where we were paying for

rent, paying for electricity, a shop manager and we were only making enough to cover those expenses really.

“We’ve only ever sold goods that are donated.

“We’ve never purchased goods to sell.” e op shop’s earnings over the years have supported the church and community. “We gave a monthly donation to community groups,” says Shona, including Homes of Hope, Stroke Foundation, the community patrol and more.

Mixed feelings

Asked how she feels about this chapter of the op shop coming to an end, Shona says: “I’ve got mixed feelings of course because it’s been part of my life for a long time. We’ve met people from all around the country who’ve popped in to see us for whatever reason.

“You have a chat with them, nd out where they’re from and it’s a real community thing.”

Now Shona hopes this community spirit follows the shift. e op shop will reopen at Saint James Union Church, 70 Pooles Rd, Greerton, earlyApril. “You’ll still nd the same happy, helpful volunteers – just in a di erent location.

“We’re just looking to the community to continue coming in and seeing us, having a chat and nding a bargain… so that we can continue to support the church and the community.”

Georgia Minkhorst

Volunteer Shona Middendorf inside the James Place Opportunity Shop, which is on the move to a new location at Saint James Union Church. Photo: John Borren.

Fire’s out and the game is on!

Bay of Plenty Rapid chess tournament

happening in the last 16 years has been arson. is year things are back on board –starting tomorrow.

“Last year there was an arson at the Masonic Centre venue so that’s the only thing that’s stopped us,” says tournament organiser Caleb Wright of Mount Maunganui RSA Chess Club.

Caleb says the e ects of the 2021 re were “pretty serious”. “It literally gutted all the inside [of the venue]. It was a huge job [to x the damage] and we’re fortunate that they just nished it in time for this year.”

And so the Bay of Plenty Rapid – one of the most popular rapid chess events up and down Aotearoa each February – is back for its 17th round this Saturday, February 25.

Caleb says chess players will travel from around New Zealand to enjoy their craft and for some glory on the board.

Quick game

He has played since 1988 and will compete in the tournament’s A grade. “To be a good player you’ve got to have some patience, calculation, strategy, and you’ve got to use common sense as well. You can take some risks but not be too reckless.”

e longest game of chess Caleb has played was a whooping six hours. “A decent game of chess will be at least four to ve hours normally.” is weekend’s tournament is all about rapid chess however. Caleb and his club were the rst to introduce the 25 minutes plus ve-seconds-permove increment rapid time control game format. “It stopped people trying to run opponents out of time. at just happens sometimes and there were disputes and so on.” is style of play is now used throughout the country in rapid chess!

Only arson

Holding the tournament every year since 2006, e BOP Rapid has always managed to escape Covid-19 restrictions and lockdowns – and Caleb has his poker face ready for Saturday.

“ e more serious you get, the more you have to show as little emotion as you can, otherwise your body language tends to give away emotion to your opponent and whether they’ll get con dence or not.”

ere will be a total of $1440 in prize money to be won across the grades – A, B and C. e tournament is at the Bay of Plenty Masonic Centre, 33 Hairini St, Hairini, starting 9.15am on Saturday, February 25. If you know how to play, rock up before 9am for a last-minute sign-up and join the chess action!

conviction and sentence.

Delight in an awesome 30-minute scenic experience and spectacular views over the Bay of Plenty. Learn about the history of our unique aircraft and take a very special trip with our dedicated crew. Taking off from Tauranga in association with Classic Flyers on Saturday the 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th of March 2023 .

News tips ph 0800 SUNLIVE

Double-murder appeal fails

A convicted double-murderer jailed for 17 years for his role in a deadly drama that involved a crossbow killing, police shoot-out and four deaths in total has failed in a bid to appeal his

Samuel Dean Fane was jailed in July 2021 at the High Court in Rotorua in what was the nal chapter of a saga that saw, among those killed, Fane’s brother Anthony Fane who died in a hail of 49 bullets red by police after a pursuit through residential streets in Tauranga. Before his death police say Anthony Fane had used a crossbow to murder his partner Jessielee Booth over his belief she had been having an a air. at belief was also the catalyst for the next two murders, as he believed it was with Paul Lasslett. Samuel Fane was sentenced after a jury found him guilty of the killing of Lasslett, 43, and Nick Littlewood, 32, in Omanawa on February 11, 2020.

Fur seal

While enjoying a walk around the Mauao base track, local photographer Nicholle Roberson spotted a New Zealand fur seal or kekeno sunning itself on the rocks.

Regarded as “our local Mauao seal” Nicholle took photos from the safety of the track as the seal snoozed, sni ed the air, and hauled itself over rocks. ree types of seal breed in New

Zealand: fur seals, sea lions and elephant seals. Leopard seals also visit.

Visitors to Mount Maunganui often see fur seals sleeping on the rocks around Mauao – they tend to be found on rocky shorelines, whereas sea lions prefer sandy beaches.

People are advised to keep their distance from these animals.

Budget date announced

e Government’s Budget 2023 will be delivered on ursday, May 18. All eyes will be on this year’s budget, which will be built in the shadow of Cyclone Gabrielle, a cost of living pinch and ooding recovery.

“We are committed to working with local communities to get a ected families, farmers and businesses back

on their feet and their regions back moving. e economic and scal impact is not yet fully known, but we know the rebuild will be in the billions of dollars,” says Finance Minister Grant Robertson. “ e recovery is going to take a long time and the Government will need to step up with considerable resources to repair and x broken infrastructure.”

Record rents

Rent in New Zealand is at an all-time high, with the national median weekly rent reaching $595 in January, according to the latest TradeMe Property data. Following three stagnant months, when the national median weekly rent remained at $580, rent jumped four per cent or $25 a week in January when compared to the same month last year.

TradeMe Property sales director Gavin Lloyd says the jump will be “unpleasant news” for renters.

Along with the new national record, the Auckland ($630), Bay of Plenty ($615), Marlborough ($550), Northland ($580), Taranaki ($580), Waikato ($540), and Wellington ($660) regions hit their highest median weekly rents of all time last month.

Young chess players Nrusingha Rath and Brian Lin will compete in Saturday’s tournament. Photo: John Borren.

Georgia Minkhorst

If

A community that is there for each other

I’m incredibly proud of our community and its response to the back-to-back weather events.

It has revealed the true character of our people and the willingness to get prepared, roll our sleeves up when needed to, and help each other out.

A heartfelt thank you to our community response teams and iwi who opened up emergency shelters, to our roading teams who continue working tirelessly to repair our local roads, and to everyone who listened to the advice and prepared for Cyclone Gabrielle.

Together we all stepped up to support our communities.

Our hearts go out to those a ected by Cyclone Gabrielle – and most particularly the whānau and friends of those who have lost their lives in this catastrophe. e images of widespread devastation, and the long road to recovery ahead for countless whānau and businesses certainly puts things in perspective for us.

Plenty of mahi

As things begin to (hopefully) dry out, there is still plenty of mahi to do across our district to restore things.

But we must be mindful of what other regions are currently facing – 10,000 or more people displaced and in need of the very basics – and the prioritisation of materials and resources where they are most needed through the National State of Emergency. We’re still calculating the total clean-up cost, but our roading network

took a large hit in recent weeks and there are still a number of roads and some infrastructure that requires attention.

e No.4 Rd bailey bridge installation, and the assessments of Te Puna Station Rd, Wairoa Rd and Lund Rd remain a priority and require more time before we can provide a clear picture going forward.

Please be patient

So, please be patient as we work quickly and e ciently to bring things back up to speed as fast as possible. Repairs will take time and have a ow-on e ect for other services such as maintaining our parks and reserves with mowing. e silver lining for me was witnessing how good our community is at preparing for such events. It was great to see people taking the advice from various organisations seriously and being ready to evacuate or take in their neighbours or friends if needed.

ese events, following a tough couple of years, all take a toll.

So, I encourage everyone to look after yourselves and check in on each other. Don’t be too proud to lean on the incredible support services and groups across our district, and nationwide that are there to help and guide you.

And remember, sometimes a simple phone call or kōrero with friends or whānau goes a long way.

Oceans ’23 rolls back onto Mount Main Beach

e Oceans ’23 Festival of Junior Surf Lifesaving event – which brings 700 junior Surf Life Saving members, their families and friends to Mount Maunganui – has decided to push on in the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle.

e event began on Mount Maunganui’s main beach yesterday, February 23 – and runs for four days to nish this Sunday, February 26.

“While our thoughts are with everyone impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle, we have made the decision to go ahead with Oceans

’23 to bring some muchneeded positivity to those who are still able to attend,” says SLSNZ chief executive Paul Dalton. “ is decision has not been taken lightly.

“Postponement or cancellation was considered.

“However, we’ve decided to proceed because this event was cancelled in 2022 due to Covid19 and we know how many people were looking forward to this year’s festival.”

e four-day festival aims to

provide an opportunity for junior members, aged 10-14, to challenge themselves and celebrate the camaraderie of surf lifesaving in a fun, exciting, and safe beach and surf environment.

SLSNZ national sports manager Lewis McClintock says Oceans is an event SLNZ junior members “our future lifeguards” aspire to attend. is is the 23rd edition of Oceans – the last full-scale event was in 2020.

Mauao track day closure

taurangaMP@parliament.govt.nz

Applications

With Tauranga City Council working to help Mauao in good shape by undertaking vegetation management, another track closure is happening this Monday, February 27.

On this day the Waikorere track will close from 7am to 5pm. If works cannot take place on February 27 a backup day of Wednesday, March 1, will be in place.

Suya Haering and Myara Flint from Mairangi Bay competing in Oceans ’19.

‘O for orsome’ Omanu

Come and meet Omanu! is little fella was left in a park with his litter, but is now thriving in the rescue.

Still young, when Omanu nds his new home he will need to continue his puppy training and socialisation.

We believe he’ll grow to be a medium sized dog, but we cannot guarantee this.

Omanu loves cuddles and is a super chill dude, but gets pretty excited for his walks.

He’s learning to walk nicely

on a lead, will sit and wait for his food and understands ‘stay’ and ‘wait’ and is learning new things daily.

Omanu can be quite chatty and will let you know when he wants something. He’s currently fostered with his sister, two large dogs and four cats – who he is very respectful of. He’s a beautiful boy with a soft nature who will make a fantastic family dog.

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

Acquire your Easter bunnies early!

It’s not Easter yet but the SPCA has bunnies to rehome.

Mickey and Minnie are a super-cute, teeny tiny duo – but don’t let their size fool you. ey’ve got big personalities.

e shy pair do take a little while to warm up to new people. Mickey is rst to investigate new things, especially if you o er him treats. Minnie is never far behind.

Mickey is learning that gentle nose and cheek rubs feel oh so good, while Minnie is taking a little longer to be convinced.

ese cuties zoom around their enclosure, dash in and out of their tunnel, and snuggle up together in a bunny-puddle.

Mickey is a cheeky chap, full of beans and energy. Minnie loves to huddle up in a comfy spot for a snooze but will appear in seconds for greens.

is pair are excellent at using litter trays, making them the perfect option for indoor living.

Mickey and Minnie are looking for a quiet, adult home where they can be spoilt and loved. Ask to meet these cuties today! Call the Tauranga centre a call on: 07 5780245. Ref: 556265.

TODD MULLER

Still in a state of emergency

Responding to Cyclone Gabrielle is a mammoth task, so the National State of Emergency has been extended for seven days.

is means strong, experienced coordination across all arms of government can continue on a national level, in partnership with local government, the business community, social service providers, iwi and community groups.

e National Emergency Management Agency we know as NEMA continues to operate its National Coordination Centre to support the ongoing response and is coordinating the all-ofgovernment response.

A new Cyclone Recovery Taskforce ensures local voices have direct input into decision making, and that recovery is led by the needs of those on the ground. Lead Ministers have been assigned to each a ected region, working within their communities and reporting back on their local

needs. ey will join a new cabinet committee making decisions relevant to the recovery chaired by Grant Robertson, who has been appointed as the new Cyclone Recovery Minister.

Barbara Edmonds has been appointed as Associate Cyclone Recovery Minister.

More support has been announced. is includes $250 million being provided to help Waka Kotahi and local councils to assess and x roads. And $50 million will deliver interim emergency business and primary sector support. Inland Revenue is being supported to deliver interest write-o s, tax concessions for donated trading stock and an extension of R&D Tax Incentive ling deadlines. is is only interim support and there will be more to come. It certainly helps but it doesn’t undo the destruction, anxiety and heartache. My thoughts are with all a ected, we will get through this together. Kia kaha!

Thanks in the wake of the cyclone

I’d like to thank our community for their incredible generosity towards victims of Cyclone Gabrielle, and especially Tenby Powell and the pilots, ground crew and suppliers at Tauranga Aero Club. Tenby and TAC were supported by Auckland and Waikato pilots who ew six tonnes of essential supplies to the East Coast and Hawke’s Bay.

ank you to TAC, Brett Marsh Transport, supermarkets, social clubs and everyone in the Bay of Plenty who helped with supplies, logistics and nancial donations. If you’d still like to contribute, TAC would appreciate help towards fuel costs; they are accepting donations to 02-0372-0019669-00 with ‘DB donation’ in the reference eld.

I am so proud that the Bay of Plenty has been represented in such a special way, when we ourselves are still recovering from the anniversary weekend storms that a ected many in our region, including families in Maungatapu who still can’t access their properties. e coming months will continue to be challenging for us locally and for many regions in the North Island, including neighbouring Coromandel. For a tourism destination whose international market has been locked out for two years, losing their domestic market due to bad weather and ood damage is devastating.

I urge you to support them and other local businesses while they provide products, services and employment under stressful conditions.

Churches Active In Our Community

The Bible: the mouth of God

We sometimes hear the saying that goes like this: “doctrine divides, but experience unites”.

While there are many beliefs held by the Christian church that have caused serious divisions over the millennia of church history, there is surely one doctrine over which all Christians agree: that the Bible is the Word of God.

Jesus – the incarnate Son of God – described the Scriptures as “the mouth of God”. In Matthew 4 we read that when tempted by the devil to turn stones into bread, Jesus answered by quoting from

Deuteronomy 8:2-3, where God reminded the people of Israel (through Moses) that, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God”.

e same thing is said in 2 Timothy 3:16: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness”.

In Isaiah 50:4 we are invited by God to wake up every morning and listen to His voice: “Morning by morning he awakens; he awakens my ear to hear as those who are taught”. Dear reader, where are you seeking the daily bread of sustenance for your soul? Simply open the Bible and when you read it, you will hear God speaking to you from His own mouth, the Holy Spirit inspired Scriptures. Listening to God’s own words is the primary means of growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ, and becoming more like Him.

Another bonanza for government

To carry on from my last letter ‘Government gets money too easily’ ( e Weekend Sun, February 17), it should be noted that governments sometimes get up to other ‘tricks’. In the 1970s wage-earners paid no tax on their deductions for the equivalent of Kiwisaver contributions and the employer contribution was tax-free to the employee.

Now employee

Kiwisaver deductions are fully taxed and the employer subsidy is taxed at the employee’s highest rate, diverted at source. In other words – of your total Kiwisaver funding the Government grabs about 25 per cent to 33 per cent straight away. So Kiwisaver, too, is a bonanza for Government.

Further, if a Capital Gains Tax is implemented, as threated, it will hit most Kiwisaver funds hard.

Bill Capamagian, Tauranga City.

The biggest scourge on NZ is ageism

Re: Patricia Wilson’s letter ‘Total Arrogance and disrespect’ ( e Sun, February 17). Good on you Patricia – not only is Hunter Wells totally arrogant, he is also ageist!

e biggest scourge on this country is not racism but ageism!

To say he doesn’t apportion any credit for building our roads,

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railways, hospitals or provision of electricity to anyone because of the state they are all in is ludicrous.

It is Hunter’s generation who are responsible for the upkeep of these services, not those who have long since passed!

Maybe we have been the ‘silent generation’ for too long; and that is the reason for ageism to ourish!

J Allan, Katikati.

Absolute lunacy at work...

On the morning of Friday, February 17, I was walking along e Strand and couldn’t help but notice all the empty shops in the city.

I passed two men dressed in a dark grey/ black uniform (am I in Russia?). Anyway, I thought to myself who are they? On walking another 50m I was on Grey St and there were another two men dressed

the same, so I stopped and asked who they were. “Oh we are parking wardens” what about the other two? “Oh they patrol a di erent area to us.”

On walking another 50m down Grey St there is another grey/black uniformed man. Again I ask what he is doing “Oh I’m counting cars”.

Craig Malpas, Maungatapu.

Wrong officers!

Night after night on television the Government is advertising for correction o cers. Instead, they should be hiring truancy o cers. ose o cials would investigate why the children aren’t at school and then make recommendations to deal with the real problem of truancy. at way, if children have a good standard of education, we will not need the correction o cers.

Jim Sherlock, Parkvale.

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Support your favourite cause via Acorn

In 2023, the Acorn Foundation celebrates 20 years of connecting generous people who care with causes that matter.

Over the years, hundreds of donors have enabled the foundation to distribute more than $13 million to community organisations in the Western Bay of Plenty. In February and March, Acorn is running their annual Give Back and Get Back campaign to highlight the tax bene ts that can be gained this year by supporting the community before March 31.

“More and more, we’ve found that many of our donors like to support their favourite

causes at this time of year to receive an immediate tax credit,” says Acorn CEO Lori Luke.

Endowment funds

Generous locals set up endowment funds with Acorn to support causes in the community that are close to their hearts. e capital in the fund is invested in

Beyond what your bank can offer

perpetuity, with a portion of the investment income distributed annually.

Donors get to choose whether they name speci c charities, choose a cause or causes that they support or leave the money unrestricted.

Modest

“It’s important to understand that community gifting is not just for the wealthy; most Acorn supporters are

very modest people who are passionate about this region,” says Lori.

People give to the causes that they value most; the 33.3 per cent tax credit this year just provides a really nice incentive to act before March 31.

For more information on how to support the Western Bay of Plenty, visit: www. acornfoundation.org.nz

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‘Ear and hearing care for all!’

World Hearing Day is an annual global advocacy event for raising awareness regarding hearing loss and promoting ear and hearing care, and calling for action to address hearing loss and related issues.

World Hearing Day is held on March 3 each year to raise awareness on how to prevent deafness and hearing loss and promote ear and hearing care across the world.

Each year, the World Health Organisation focuses on a theme to

raise awareness on how to prevent deafness and hearing loss and promote ear and hearing care across the globe. e 2023 theme is ‘Ear and hearing care for all!’

According to the WHO, more than 60 per cent of ear and hearing problems can be identi ed and addressed at the primary level of care.

Hearing New Zealand uses the white cat as a symbol to make the invisible symbol of hearing impairment visible and relatable, as white cats are also hearing impaired. For more information, visit: www. hearing.org.nz and www.who.int/ campaigns/world-hearing-day/2023

The advances in hearing technology

Technology has revolutionised the health industry –think pedometers, heart monitors, blood sugar tests and more.

Information and upgrades are more readily available than ever before. It’s an exciting time in the medical eld, including hearing and audiology. Researchers and technology developers are creating never-before-seen options for auditory devices.

More connected lives

Most hearing aids (specialised medical devices), today could classify as a ‘hearable’ but not all hearables are considered hearing aids. No longer just tools for directing sound, ‘hearables’ are helping people live more connected, inspired and healthy lifestyles.

Ear-level devices can now measure heart rate, track steps, translate languages and detect falls.

FIRST HEARING CENTRE

Although there are several companies building hearables that o er some degree of enhanced hearing, typically those devices are not designed as ‘hearing aids’ but rather, lifestyle enhancers that utilise the ear and hearing.

Opportunities

Hearables may not be suitable for everyone, but if you’re wondering how a hearable might improve your life, give the team at First Hearing Centre a call. ere are so many opportunities to enhance how we experience the world around us, don’t leave your hearing out!

For more information, phone: 07 926 6010 or visit the team on Pyes Pa Rd.

Making this invisible condition visible!

Do you know that white cats are hearing impaired but very much like people? at’s why Hearing NZ uses the white cat as a symbol to make this invisible condition, visible. So what is Hearing NZ? And what do they do?

Founded in 1932, Hearing NZ’s mission is to improve the lives of people with hearing impairment through

supporting the individual, advocacy, education and research.

ey can support those in the community who are deaf or hard of hearing.

ey educate people, particularly youth, on how to keep their hearing safe and about noise-induced hearing.

ey commission their own research and help fund research projects relevant to hearing and hearing loss. ey are the consumer voice of the hearing impaired by advocating for accessibility to hearing healthcare and venues. You can purchase a Hearing NZ white cat pins from your local Hearing NZ branch. Or see: https://www.hearing.org.nz/ product-page/white-cat-pin

Experiencing an Ear360 is very easy!

ey’re the new hearing specialists in town and I thought what better way to nd out what ‘Ear360’ is all about than by putting my own ears to the test!

Opening earlier this month, Resonate Health o ers a holistic approach to hearing health and provides their unique 10-point hearing assessment, Ear360. Walking into their stylish studio space in Bayfair, I was greeted by the friendly faces of Resonate Health’s audiologist Clara Kwaramba and navigator Sharon Higgison.

Questionnaire

en it was straight into Ear360. Up rst was the ‘Hearing Impact’ questionnaire where Sharon asked a series of questions about how my hearing impacts my daily quality of life. “Does a hearing problem because you to feel embarrassed when you meet new people?” My answer was ‘no’, but this is a very real thing for some. “People are often frustrated and in denial about their hearing,” says Sharon. Clara then checked my ear hygiene which was ne – phew – and guided me through a series of audibility and hearing intelligibility tests. “With extended audibility, we’re testing a higher frequency than people would normally test because we’re nding when you have poor extended audibility scores you also nd it hard to hear speech

among other speech – so a typical café scenario.” Unlike other hearing clinics, Ear360 also tests memory, sleep, balance and tinnitus. “Sometimes people think they have bad memory but actually it turns out they have bad hearing, which is why they look like they have bad memory,” says Clara.

Holistic Completing my Ear360 assessment, Clara explained my results to me.

“ e whole idea with 360 and why we’ve got the circle graphic is because we want complete

holistic hearing health.” Being in my twenties, my scores were low, indicating good overall hearing health. I feel relieved my ears are in check –for now at least.

Clara says: “It’s never too early to start checking your hearing annually with an Ear360 so you can objectively measure any changes.” With my

Ear360 pro le recorded, I’ll de nitely be keeping an eye on my hearing and catch up with Sharon and Clara again!

Giveaways!

anks to Resonate Health, e Sun has three Ear360 experiences to give away to three lucky readers who can tell us what four other aspects of hearing health Ear360 tests unlike standard audiologists? Winners can pass on the Ear360 gift to a friend or family member. Enter online at: www.sunlive.co.nz under the competitions section. Entries must be received by Tuesday, February 28

Georgia Minkhorst

Audiologist Clara Kwaramba getting Georgia Minkhorst set up with the audibility and intelligibility testing.

Navigator Sharon Higgison takes Georgia Minkhorst through a Hearing Impact questionnaire.

Audiologist Clara Kwaramba guides Georgia Minkhorst through some hearing tests.

Georgia listens to Clara explain her Ear360 results on-screen. Photos: John Borren.

The jazz festival’s big 6-0

Last week I mentioned the current glut of folk music; none of that today – this week it’s jazz.

And let’s start by following up on a column from a couple of weeks ago, as there’s been a lot of feedback about it.

I was writing about Oscar Lavën, who grew up here in Tauranga, so I guess a lot of people know him, and has since migrated to Wellington to follow his musical dreams.

Let me recap brie y in case you missed that column and don’t know Oscar. He’s the son of Tauranga musicians Marion Arts and Robbie Lavën and has been excelling on instruments that you blow since a very early age.

He currently holds the tenor sax seat in the Rodger Fox Big Band and is also in high demand for his clarinet and trumpet playing. He seems to be contributing to every second band in the capital, including the Air Force Band. He’s also the rst call bassoonist for the Wellington Orchestra and is about to start teaching at Victoria University’s New Zealand School of Music.

He has also played on a lot of albums, from neo-Dixie to Gypsy Jazz, and at the end of last year released his own debut ‘Questions In Red’, a complex and demanding set of be-bop in uenced instrumentals, which is on closer examination quite accessible and which has received international acclaim, thanks in part to the presence of awardwinning UK drummer John Rae.

12 compositions

It features 12 compositions by Oscar, who is also joined by ex-Blerta bassist Patrick Bleakley, trumpeter Mike Taylor and pianist Ayrton Foote; and, while Spotify o ers only one tune, you can hear and buy the whole thing on Bandcamp. If you’re a jazz fan you’re in for a treat.

Oscar is also coming to town for Easter. In fact a large chunk of the country’s jazz community are heading to the Bay this year since the National Jazz Festival, the jewel in the crown of Tauranga’s musical

events, is celebrating its 60th anniversary. ere is a suitably huge programme planned and you can nd Oscar all over the place. On ursday evening, April 6, he’ll be on display with the Rodger Fox Big Band at Baycourt in what should be a rather special concert. Rodger is presenting material from the band’s two latest recordings, both of which were slightly left- eld projects: an album of Dave Dobbyn songs, and an album of Hone Tuwhare’s poetry set to music. en that weekend Oscar is part of the Downtown Jazz Carnival. is year the carnival will be returning to its regular outdoor stages after a very enjoyable switch last year to taking place in downtown restaurants and bars due to the festival’s Covid-forced move from Easter to the rather colder Matariki weekend.

Shaken Not Stirred

Downtown you can nd Oscar both leading his own quintet and joining Wellington swing kings Shaken Not Stirred. en he’s back again at Baycourt on Sunday, April 9, sitting in with Liam Ryan’s Blue Riders, which features local singer Sarah Spicer.

He will also be part of a Sunday afternoon concert at Baycourt – though possibly not in person – when the Tauranga Big Band will be showcasing “some of New Zealand’s most innovative composers”. Oscar’s work will feature, alongside compositions from Wayne Senior, Lauren Ellis, and Ryan Brake.

And, as you can no doubt tell from this, the Jazz Festival programme is out, tickets are on sale, and the countdown to what promises to be the biggest jazz festival in recent memory has begun.

Actually, it’s a year of anniversaries: the festival turns 60, the Youth Band Competitions are in their 45th year and Rodger’s Big Band turns 50. e festival itself will be running for 10 days, kicking o with a street party in Katikati on April 1 (and that’s no joke).

at afternoon will also see the rst matinee performance of ‘Unforgettable – e Nat King Cole Story’ which has four performances at the 16 Ave eatre under the guidance of longtime music educator and Tauranga Big Band director Murray Mason and Tauranga director Merv Beets.

And that’s just the start... much more to come next week.

Oscar Lavën.

Just be yourself at Jammin’ in the Park!

A new music festival on tomorrow in Tauranga aims to empower youth to be themselves and not let struggles get in the way of life by enjoying the sounds and experiences of local young performers.

Jammin’ in the Park is a fun, free, sober youth music festival, which welcomes youth aged 12-21 to Carlton Street Reserve in Otūmoetai 3pm-7pm this Saturday, February 25, to enjoy music from college bands and local musicians. e line-up is Sophie-Maude, Unit 51, Seaside Jams, Brothers Uprising, Jahvis Stantiall, and Blah Blah Uh Huh Boo Hoo.

Hosted by Tauranga Youth Development Team, general manager Erika Harvey says Jammin’ in e Park is about empowering local youth to push through struggles – and be themselves. “Youth are going through so much these days – they’re in uenced by social media, by peers, by everything that they see – and we’re seeing a range of mental health and wellbeing issues because of it. We wanted to host a festival, where youth can be themselves and actually enjoy being who they are.”

Sophie’s message

Erika says the event is to highlight you don’t have to be like everyone else – that’s why she’s asked Tauranga musician Sophie-Maude to perform.

Sophie, aged 19, makes and performs music that draws from

her own life experiences and coping with Autism, ADHD, OCD and Tourette’s syndrome –via her stories and shared perspectives she connects with a range of audiences. Her latest single ‘Take Me Away’ went to number 1 on the NZ Hot 40 Singles Chart last July.

“I think this festival is a great opportunity to perform in a welcoming and inclusive environment for all youth of Tauranga with good vibes,” says Sophie.

Sophie, who has overcome health and con dence issues on the way to wellbeing, says it’s important to be upfront about your struggles – as you can help speak to and inspire people. “I really love giving people hope and getting them to acknowledge their possibilities – whether it be getting into music, coming to terms with themselves if they’re on the spectrum and things like that.

“I’m always trying to make people feel welcome because of the experiences I’ve had growing up being on the spectrum. I understand a lot of about how people who are struggling feel –as I’ve been there myself.”

Connect and understand

Erika says the free event o ers a sweet afternoon vibe, where TYDT can also connect with, relate to, and

Art and books wanted ahead of Rotary sale

Have you a got piece of art gathering dust? Or an artwork sitting in the bottom of the closet instead of proudly on the wall? Maybe a piece no longer brings you joy? If this is the case, Joan McKirdy wants to speak with you – ASAP!

Joan is kindly asking Tauranga and Western Bay of Plenty residents to donate their unwanted, unneeded and/or preloved artworks to a good cause.

Joan and Margaret Cooper run the Art and Painting sale at the Tauranga Rotary’s annual book and art sale –which is coming up on March 3-5 at the Seeka Coolstore, Harvard Way, Mount Maunganui – and they need more art to sell. “We welcome donated pre-loved art, which we can put into the art sale – which is a new section of the famous book sale.

“As we all know, many people have or are downsizing their homes and they may have art that they no longer require or do not have the space to hang so much art in their new homes,” says Joan. “Should people wish to donate pre-loved art, they can phone Margaret on: 027 497 9308 or myself on: 021 670044 and we’ll arrange to have the art picked up.”

Joan says we live in a beautiful community “and it is an honour to give every dollar earned from the art sale back into the community”. is year

Kennards Hire has assisted in the hiring of fencing to hang artwork on. “Hanging pieces on the wire fencing will make the art much easier to view.” e book and art sale is at the Seeka Coolstore, Harvard Way, Mount Maunganui, from noon6pm on Friday, March 3, and 9am-4pm on Saturday March 4, and Sunday, March 5.

better understand local youth. Artist Sam Allen will work on a collaborative artpiece onsite people can join in on, there’s roaming performers, food trucks, and a chill out zone with bean bags and giant outdoor games.

“ is event is focussed on providing a fun, safe and sober event for youth, but everyone in the community is welcome!”

Sophie-Maude will perform at Jammin’ in the Park. Photo: supplied.

Merle Cave

Joan McKirdy wants people to donate artwork ASAP.

TYDT’s Erena Lagas, Erika Harvey and Rebecca Kit have launched an online website for caregivers and teens to see what organisations and services are available to help youth navigate their teenage years. Photo: supplied.

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Role: Trustees for Tauranga Art Gallery Trust (1) and Tourism Bay of Plenty (2)

Location: Tauranga

Closes: Sunday 5 March 2023

Do you have a passion for the visual arts and creative sector? Or a passion for the coastal Bay of Plenty and growing the region’s visitor economy in a sustainable and regenerative way? If so, a trustee role on the Board of Tauranga Art Gallery Trust or Tourism Bay of Plenty may be your perfect opportunity.

Tauranga Art Gallery Trust owns and operates the Tauranga Art Gallery – toi Tauranga, on behalf of the residents of Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty.

The Gallery’s purpose is to create exceptional art experiences that engage, inspire, challenge and educate through exhibitions, public programmes, and events.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a trustee whose skills and experience complement those of the current board. Diversity is valued, and these trustees will typically have a mix of some of the following attributes:

• Future chair capability and leadership skills

• Legal expertise, in employment law or property

• Property management/ development or infrastructure experience

• Strong community relationships

• Marketing and/or communications skills

• In-depth appreciation and understanding of the cultural history of Aotearoa

• A strong interest and understanding of visual arts - locally and nationally

• Links with the local arts community and education providers, as well as local and central government agencies associated with the visual arts.

Tourism Bay of Plenty’s vision is to “share the love of Te Moananui Toi / the coastal Bay of Plenty with the world” and its mission is “growing a sustainable visitor economy for the benefit of the community.”

As a Destination Management Organisation (DMO), a partnership approach, engagement with the community and Council support is required to enhance visitor experiences.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for two trustees who will typically have a mix of some of the following attributes:

• Governance experience and a solid understanding of governance best practice

• Strong financial acumen, preferably at a governance or strategic advisory level and/or

• Legal experience at a senior level would be highly desirable, as this is an identified gap on our current board

• Experience in the visitor economy, possible industry links with local tourism operators and knowledge of the tourism industry in the coastal Bay of Plenty and New Zealand

• Understanding of the Tauranga business community and economic development agencies

• Empathy with and an understanding of the cultural history of the region.

If you believe you have the skills to make a difference and a real contribution to the Board of either Tauranga Art Gallery Trust or Tourism Bay of Plenty, your interest in the positions is welcomed. Both are council-controlled organisations, which operate autonomously but in a political environment, with a requirement to meet the expectations of both its shareholders and its community in accordance with an agreed Statement of Intent.

Applicants should reside in the Western Bay of Plenty region, with a demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships within the relevant communities.

For more information please visit: www.artgallery.org.nz and www.bayofplentynz.com www.tauranga.govt.nz/cco

Expressions of interest should be addressed to:

Chief Executive

Tauranga City Council

Private Bag 12022, Tauranga 3143

Apply online via email to: sanjana.france@tauranga.govt.nz.

Applications close 5pm, Sunday 5 March, with interviews being held on 13, 14 and 20 March. All applications will be dealt with in strict confidence.

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IF ANY OF YOU lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without nding fault, and it will be given to you.

(James 1:5)

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HANDYMAN HOME & GARDEN SERVICES tree pruning, weeding, hedges, water blasting, home maintenance, rubbish removal at a ordable rates Ph Philip 027 655 4265

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

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

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 nish. Ph Wayne 021 162 7052

BUILDER AVAILABLE repair

maintenance, decks, pergolas, fences, all housing work. Ph Roger 022 121 3356

PAINTER AVAILABLE NOW

Quality workmanship ph Riva 020 4116 7635

ROOF REPAIRS Free quotes for all maintenance of leaking roofs, gutter cleaning & repairs. Chimney maintenance & repairs. Registered roofer, 30yrs exp. Ph Peter 542 4291 or 027 436 7740

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

florists

"Deanwaskind,sensitive andcompassionate,and accommodatingofourwishes"