The Weekend Sun - 21 July 2023

High achiever!

You can hear it in her voice, see it in her smile, and believe it from what she’s achieved. Pyes Pa youngster McKenna Hills loves highland dancing – so much so she’s overcome a foot injury to win her second national title at the tender age of nine. After three days’ worth of performances on

Matariki weekend, McKenna was named Under-10 champion of the Highland and National Dancing New Zealand Championships hosted in Tauranga. She beat more than 25 competitors for the title. is comes after winning the Under-8 title at the same competition

two years ago, when aged seven.

What makes a good highland dancer?

McKenna’s mother Jacinda Hills says you have to be dedicated. “In dancing they say ‘you don’t practice until you get it right –you practice until you can’t get it wrong’. So there’s a lot of thinking and athletic ability

in highland dancing. It’s a pretty hard sport in terms of tness and coordination.”

Jacinda reckons McKenna has grown in maturity “and is realising when you put in the hard work, it pays o ”.

Read McKenna’s story on page 6.

Photo: John Borren.

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Sun Media Ltd Director: Claire Rogers Editor: Merle Cave Editorial: Letitia Atkinson, Alisha Evans, Rosalie Liddle Crawford, Taylor Rice, Georgia Minkhorst, Hunter Wells Photography: John Borren. Publications Manager: Kathy Sellars. Advertising: Jo Delicata, Karlene Sherris,

When truckers came to the party

e other Oliver story is a very personal one. ere are parallels and then there aren’t. is Oliver story change my life rather than my day.

One simply brightened my day. Brightened my week. It shone through the gloom of cluster bombs, super-charged heatwaves, robberies and ram raids, and mums charged with killing their kids. You know, the otsam that is the day’s news. Oliver’s was a feel good story. Made a lot of people feel good.

So I will start there. irty-three years ago I stood in a church, God’s house, holding a tiny white casket. My rst son, a little boy called Oliver.

‘He’ had blessed us with this gift, then just six weeks later, inexplicably took him from us.

Beautiful

He was beautiful. Fine jet black hair, angular features and electric blue eyes.

But it was a little face that would never smile, never laugh, never cry, never be sad or angry. Just beautiful. We had lost him and it crushed me.

I stood there clutching Oliver, soaking up Beethoven’s sad and wistful ‘Fur Elise’ and looking to the 150 friends and family gathered in the pews for answers. ere were none of course.

But I did wish for him a wild, boisterous adventure on his way to where beautiful, innocent souls go to play out their forever days.

I pleaded with the Angels to give this child the ride of his short, sad life. Spare nothing on the road to Heaven, I asked the Angels… if there is one. You endure a deep sense of helplessness in these circumstances. You cling to anything and everything. And so, if there was the remotest chance of there being a place for Angels, saints and souls, then I demanded Oliver be given admittance.

A truck driver

e other Oliver wasn’t in need of divine help, but help nonetheless. And an Angel stepped up – in this case his Mum. She created a slice of heaven for him. is Oliver is truck nuts. Some kids love Kylian Mbappe, others Taylor Swift – but give this Oliver a DAF, Scania, Kenworth, or Peterbilt any day. He’d probably tell you the average class 8 semitruck engine is 14.8 litre, six cylinders with 560hp and 1850lbs of torque. He’d probably also tell you semi-truck engines regularly pass 1,000,000 miles.

Important stu , meaningful stu . His Mum says all he wants to do is be a truck driver.

Now this Oliver is an eight-year-old whom they say is ‘given to solitude’, is a wee bit lonely and was set to have another quiet birthday.

Until his Mum created the warm, loving presence of an Angel. She posted an o er of $50 for a truckie willing to take Oliver for a birthday romp. A local trucking rm put the word out and 34 truckers responded. en on the day 64 big rigs rolled up to show goodwill to someone they didn’t know.

“Bout a mile outta Shaky Town, I says Pig Pen, this here’s the Rubber Duck, and I’m about to put the hammer down.”

I hope C.W.McCall was blaring away.

“Yeah, we got a little ol’ convoy, Ain’t she a beautiful sight.”

Oliver’s quiet birthday suddenly became a global event, the world was talking about him. Or were they talking about community, the fact good people had done a good thing for OIiver?

Back them

e owner of the trucking rm said he would “like every kid to know there is people out there that will back

them and stand beside them.”

We all need that sometimes.

Either way, Oliver’s story is powerful enough for me to be banging on about it two weeks after the event. So when the media’s angsting about the All Blacks Rugby World Cup chances – you know, the big issues – or when business scribes are picking over the shocker food in ation gures, I continue to take comfort from Oliver.

I will ride with him thank you.

Hey Oliver, we’ve never met, probably never will, but you can add one more mate to your list of reserves if you like. en, I suppose, you now have 64 new buddies, and each with a big rig, so you don’t need me.

And no, I don’t begrudge you your convoy. I just wish the other Oliver had the same opportunity.

And I can only hope there were Kenworths plying the highway to heaven when he travelled down it.

So there – the story of two Olivers and their respective journeys. And an after-thought – the wonderful things about grief is that it keeps giving. You don’t get over loss and you don’t want to. irty-three years after my Oliver was spirited out of my arms, he can still make me weep. I cherish that.

And, of course, I will always wonder about the smart, beautiful, giving man he would have become.

It’s the story of two Olivers, the two very di erent journeys they took, and the impact they had on me.

More hats in the ring!

e road to the General Election is heating up, with more candidates announced for the Tauranga and Bay of Plenty electorates during the past week.

Erika Harvey is again standing in Tauranga for NZ

First, while Christine Young is standing in the same electorate for the ACT Party.

Erika, who lives in Tauranga with husband Dan and their two children, is currently general manager of a local youth charity. She stood in the 2020 General Election for NZ First in Tauranga.

Erika says she is intent on giving her community a stronger voice in Parliament, transferring her own experiences into inspiration to further advocate for Tauranga as a New Zealand First candidate.

Christine is the cofounder of the Martial Arts Academy in Tauranga and Pāpāmoa and holds the rank of 7th Dan Master in ITF TKD.

“I have put myself forward as ACT party candidate because I am deeply concerned with the direction our country is taking under the current and previous governments,” says Christine.

Tauranga electorate

Both Erika and Christine were announced as candidates on Sunday. ey join Jan Tinetti who con rmed her Tauranga electorate candidacy for the Labour Party about six weeks ago and also National’s Sam U ndel, who is standing in Tauranga after winning the city’s by-election June 18, 2022. e Green Party has not con rmed a Tauranga candidate.

Bay of Plenty electorate

In the Bay of Plenty electorate, Cameron Luxton was announced on Sunday as the ACT Party’s candidate –

swapping from the Tauranga electorate where he stood for ACT in the last General Election. e married father-of-two lives in Pāpāmoa and is a self-employed builder who is 11th on ACT’s list. “As a builder and a business owner, I understand better than anyone the challenges that Tauranga faces with infrastructure.

“I’ve also watched as gang numbers have exploded here, it’s time someone took on the real issues facing this region,” says Cameron.

He joins Pare Taikato – who was announced as the Labour Party’s BOP candidate last month, after current BOP List MP Angie Warren-Clark planned to move to Whangarei – and National’s BOP candidate Tom Rutherford, who takes over from retiring Todd Muller.

Tauranga-born-and-bred Pare has been an MP Support person for the past ve years; while Taurangabased Tom is fresh from a communications role working for Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell.

Coromandel electorate

In the Coromandel electorate – which takes in Katikati – ACT so far has no announced candidate.

However, NZ First announced Sunday it has Matamata Piako district councillor Caleb Ansell standing for Coromandel. Based in Manawaru with wife Holly, Caleb has a background in customer service. He joins the National Party’s Scott Simpson, who was reselected as their Coromandel candidate for the 2023 election back in December. And Beryl Riley, who is standing for Labour in the Coromandel this election. As of print time, the Green Party could not con rm its BOP or Coromandel candidates.

Nominations close for candidates on September 15. e 2023 General Election will be held on Saturday, October 14, 2023. Find out more at: https://vote.nz

So far Jan Tinneti for Labour, Sam U ndel for National, Erika Harvey for NZ First and Christine Young for the ACT Party have been announced as Tauranga electorate candidates in the upcoming General Election.

Ticketed by council’s roving vehicle

A Tauranga woman has called into question council’s carpark ning methods after its roving vehicle failed to pick up on her mobility card and issued an infringement.

Morgan Byrt has several disabilities which causes her di culty walking and requires fast access to her vehicle due to fainting. She has a mobility permit issued by disability support and advocacy organisation CCS Disability Action to

enhance her accessibility to spaces in the community.

In May, Morgan was parked in a standard parking space outside Repco Tauranga when she was issued a parking infringement. “We’re forced out of the actual

Electricity upgrade

Transpower is exploring options for essential upgrades to its electricity network in the Western Bay of Plenty and is calling on feedback from the community.

Transpower is working in partnership with Powerco, the local lines company, on an integrated Development Plan for investment in both electricity networks to ensure the Western Bay of Plenty has the electricity supply it needs to continue to ourish, now and in the future.

Transpower’s John Clarke says the rapid population growth and economic development in the region means the power networks will need upgrades, expansions and enhancements. More information is available on the Transpower website.

Tax fraud

A man has been sentenced to two years in prison for tax fraud.

Phillip John Smith, 47, has been in prison since 1995 on non-tax related charges and was sentenced on 17 July to two years imprisonment on tax fraud charges. Smith was charged with dishonestly using documents intending to obtain a pecuniary advantage, namely a Small Business Cash ow Scheme application to Inland Revenue; 17 GST returns; and an income tax return. e total fraud added up to $66,197.62. Smith

mobility spaces because of the roadworks and everything... then because the [council] roving vehicle doesn’t check our windscreen, we’re then given a $40 ne.” TCC rules for vehicles displaying a valid mobility card allow for double a parking time restriction (maximum two hours), and card-users are

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permitted to pay half of their parking time needed. Morgan was parked in the space for 15 minutes when she was issued the ne. Council waived the ne with a warning, but Morgan says the ne is not the issue.

“I don’t give a crap about the ticket. It’s $40. It’s the fact that the council knows they’re making a mistake… the practice is discriminatory. ey don’t intend for it to be discriminatory – it just is, so they need to stop it.”

She adds: “It’s the council’s responsibility to maintain and ticket mobility spaces according to their own laws and bylaws. ey should be doing their due diligence

received $53,593.41 and was ordered to pay full reparations on that amount.

Mount theft arrest

One person is in custody after a theft at a Mount Maunganui store worth more than $1000.

A police spokesperson says Police responded to reports of a theft on Macdonald St at 2.50pm on Tuesday.

“Members of the public held the individual at the scene until police arrived. One person was taken into custody.

“A 37-year-old man is due to appear in Tauranga District Court this week on charges of shoplifting (over $1000). Enquiries are ongoing.”

Full Mauao closure next week

Mauao will be closed to the public next week. Tauranga City Council is planning on removing eight large exotic trees located on the Pilot Bay/Waikorire side of the mountain to ensure the archaeological preservation of the area.

Several trees fell during Cyclone Gabrielle and others are deteriorating, damaging the archaeological terraces near the base track. e trees will be removed using a helicopter to minimise damage to the land below, similar to works undertaken in 2022.

A full closure of Mauao is scheduled between 5am Tuesday, July 25, until 5pm Wednesday, July 26. Pilot Quay and the boat ramp and carpark near Pilot Bay will be closed from 7am Monday, July 24, until 5pm Friday, July 28.

when they’re ticketing to ensure they’re not ticketing illegally.”

e council’s two roving vehicles use Licence Plate Recognition technology to capture a vehicle’s location and check for valid parking payments against the vehicle’s registration.

“Council use LPR technology to enforce paid parking o ences in the CBD as it is the most e ective method currently used in the parking industry,” says TCC regulation monitoring team leader Stuart Goodman. “ is technology also drives compliance levels due to the increased chance of receiving an infringement for parking illegally.

“

e LPR is not used to enforce mobility carparks – this is still done by o cers on foot – only paid parking o ences.”

However, in Morgan’s situation she was using her mobility card in a standard carpark, meaning the roving vehicle would not identify her permit.

“On this occasion, the driver was parked in a standard parking space and did not pay for parking.

“Council were not aware of the driver’s mobility card but has since added their registration to our system,” says Stuart. “In future, if she does pay, we will double the time she can park for. Read this story in full at: www.sunlive.co.nz

Georgia Minkhorst

Morgan Byrt has issue with council’s roving vehicle failing to pick up on mobility cards. Photo: John Borren.

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

Warm welcome for the Dutch

e Netherlands team is receiving a warm welcome from the people of Tauranga as they prepare to compete in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 in Aotearoa.

Nicknamed the ‘Orange Lionesses’, the team was rst embraced by Tauranga with a pōwhiri at Bay Oval on Wednesday.

As part of the welcome, the team sang ‘Zie die leeuwinnen’, or ‘See those lionesses’ – a tribute song made for the team by Netherlands artist Claudia de Breij.

Amongst the crowd of supporters at the event was team mascot ‘Kicky’, who joined children from across Tauranga in celebrating the team’s arrival at Bay Oval.

e Tauranga cricket ground has also been temporarily changed into a soccer pitch, after being prepared to host the training sessions scheduled for the team ahead of their upcoming matches.

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.”

e Orange Lionesses will begin their world cup by playing against Portugal this Sunday, July 23 at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin.

Currently, the team is ranked number six in the FIFA Women’s World Rankings, and were nalists in the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup, held in France.

e world cup o cially kicked o ursday, July 20, with the rst match played at Eden Park between New Zealand and Norway.

For more information on the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, visit the FIFA.com website.

Taylor Rice

Team mascot ‘Kicky’ and a crowd of supporters at Tauranga’s Bay Oval on Wednesday. Photo: John Borren.

Research Study for adults living with a chronic health condition

Research Study for adults living with a chronic health condition

P3 Research is looking for volunteers to join a research study for a new investigational vaccine that might offer broader protection against pneumococcal disease (especially pneumonia). To be eligible, you must be between 18 and 64 years old and have one of the following medical conditions:

P3 Research is looking for volunteers to join a research study for a new investigational vaccine that might offer broader protection against pneumococcal disease (especially pneumonia). To be eligible, you must be between 18 and 64 years old and have one of the following medical conditions:

diabetes, COPD, asthma, chronic kidney disease, chronic heart disease, or chronic liver disease.

diabetes, COPD, asthma, chronic kidney disease, chronic heart disease, or chronic liver disease.

Participants will attend regular visits for six months and will be reimbursed $200 for onsite study visits and reasonable travel expenses. To learn more, apply online or contact us to speak with one of our team.

Participants will attend regular visits for six months and will be reimbursed $200 for onsite study visits and reasonable travel expenses. To learn more, apply online or contact us to speak with one of our team.

McKenna flings to the top!

Scottish lineage runs through her curved ngers above raised arms mid- ing, right down patterned sock-covered legs to the tip of her pointed toes in black Ghillies.

But for Pyes Pa girl McKenna Hills, highland dancing is more than just a family tradition – it’s a passion she loves, and is quickly learning that if she works hard at, the practice will pay o .

Website QR Code

Website QR Code

After nine solo performances during three days on Matariki weekend, the nine-year-old was named champion of the Under-10 section of the Highland and National Dancing New Zealand Championships hosted in Tauranga. “I love highland dancing because I get to perform on the stage – and I like to make lots of friends,” says McKenna, a Year 5 student at Pyes Pa Road School.

Not only did she compete against more than 25 dancers in her grade, she also had an injury to contend with. Mother Jacinda Hills says most competitors go into peak training mode before national championships, but McKenna had injured the base of her heel. “She had really good help from Avenues Physio...and her dance teacher Christine Paul also helped ne-tune her training. Usually it’s pretty intense, but we had step back a bit due to the injury.”

ird generation

Luckily, with Jacinda being an ex-dance teacher, some training was done at home. “McKenna is the third generation in our family to do highland dancing. It was a tradition for my mother and then me – because my grandparents came out from Ayrshire in Scotland.”

McKenna began highland dancing at age three –and this isn’t her rst win at the nationals. “Two years ago she entered the championship when it was held in Oamaru. en aged seven, she took won the Under-8 section,” say proud parents

Jacinda and Darin. McKenna trains at Christine Paul School of Dance in Te Puna – and swimming squad with Liz Van Welie Aquatics is the nearest rival to her passion for dance. “She knows seven out of the possible 10 dances that all Highland dancers eventually learn,” says Jacinda.

“I like them all but I really like ‘ e Sailor’s Hornpipe’,” says McKenna who gets to dress up in traditional sailor’s attire and hat. “Our hats can fall o but my nanny sows my hats the perfect size!”

To claim her 2023 title, McKenna achieved six wins and three second placings from nine performances.

Two rankings

e championships, from July 15-18 at Baycourt, saw more than 150 youngsters from around Aotearoa compete in sections from Under-6s – at two-year increments – to Under18s. “All Under-18 and Under-16 performances were NZ Championships, which are combined to rank the top 10 dancers in these grades,” says Jacinda.“Two of our local girls were ranked.

“Tyra Heng is now NZ number four in the Under-16s; and Isla MacFarlane is NZ number ve in the Under-18 category.”

McKenna likes watching the older girls dance. “I’ve got lots of idols and role models; mostly I like learning o them.” Go McKenna!

Merle Cave

Pyes Pa girl McKenna Hills just loves highland dancing.

Photo: John Borren.

Restoring the reserve

After their local reserve turned into a boggy swamp area last year, Matua residents are steps closer to enjoying their usual stomping ground once again.

With a summer of heavy rain, Matua resident Michael Esdaile and other locals noticed Shaw Place Reserve was transforming into a diabolical, mud trap in December.

“We noticed all this water running across the footpath, so some of us tried to walk through the long grass to see what was happening.

“It was clear that there were two patches that were complete bogs, “says Michael. “One older gentleman actually got stuck! He was walking back up to come up the hill and his walking sticks got stuck in the mud so a passer-by had to help him out. He changed his walking route because he didn’t want that to happen again.”

Michael says there was drainage put into Shaw Place Reserve years ago when the stone harbour wall was built along the reserve’s northern edge.

“[ e drainage] just happened to get blocked right around the time we got the heavy rain [in December]. I don’t know if it was grass roots, tree roots, whatever in it, but it nally gave up so then the park got saturated and it didn’t dry and then [council] couldn’t mow it.”

is all set to change however, with Tauranga City Council undertaking works at the reserve last month. “We’re undertaking minor earthworks at Shaw Place Reserve to help drain some of the excess water that’s been collecting along the public pathway,” says TCC’s principal natural environment advisor Karne Robertson.

“We’re adding some drainage channels and piping in the reserve to move the water into the current stormwater system.”

Comparing Shaw Place Reserve to other outdoor gems such as Fergusson Park and Kulim Park, Michael says: “It’s great that the love is going to get spread a bit”. e earthworks are scheduled to be complete by week’s end, weather permitting, with safety fencing remaining in place until the reserve’s grass has grown back. Georgia

Minkhorst

Matua Resident Michael Esdaile is happy to see the love getting spread to his local reserve.

Photo: John Borren.

Set on 21 acres of lush grounds and framed with tropical palm trees, Bayswater village is located just a stone’s throw from Bayfair Shopping Centre, popular eateries and Mount Maunganui beach.

With a range of facilities offering endless recreation or relaxation, regular shopping trips and organised outings – you can live life your way at Bayswater.

Take a tour at our Open Day and discover resort-style retirement in the heart of Mount Maunganui.

For the life you want to live Call Amy on 07 547 4175 amym@metlifecare.co.nz metlifecare.co.nz

Bayswater Village Open Day

Thursday 27 July

Tours at 10am and 1pm 60 Maranui Street Mount Maunganui

Aiming to become the ‘Fieldays of STEM’

Tauranga’s STEMFest is set to return this October – and has even bigger goals for 2023, according to its founder Tia Lush.

e festival has been running since 2018, nurturing our region’s next generation of problem-solvers, innovators and leaders – and this year is set to break new ground when it launches this October 1.

“Over the past six years we’ve been rapidly growing the festival with more and more o erings to inspire and engage our young people and their families,” says Tia.

“ is year we are excited to be working on an even bigger festival that will showcase the opportunities and latest advancements in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.”

Tia says the festival plays a vital role in engaging young people in critical sectors of our economy and by doing so helps address the predicted future skills shortage.

“ ere is a global shortage of people becoming scientists, technologists, engineers, and mathematicians. is will

ultimately result in a shortage of future problem solvers.

“STEMFest aims to address this by inspiring, empowering and nurturing a new generation of young people in these elds.”

Free tickets

With more than 10,000 free tickets issued last year, STEMFest 2023 is looking forward to breaking new attendance records since releasing tickets on June 20.

“Each year we have seen an increasing number of families from Auckland, Waikato and across the North and South Island come to attend STEMFest,” says Tia.

“ is year, from the interest we have already had to date, we’re excited. Ultimately our vision is to become the ‘Fieldays of STEM’ and in doing so really shine a light on vital career paths by engaging our future problem solvers in some amazing and fun hands-on experiments.”

Exciting line-up

Billed as a blockbuster interactive event for all ages, STEMFest 2023 is on Sunday, October 1. With a strong STEM knowledge base in the BOP

Shy bunnies need a loving home

Mickey and Minnie are a cute teeny tiny duo –but don’t let their size fool you. ey’ve got big personalities. Mickey is always rst to investigate new things, and Minnie is never far behind. ese cuties are adorable to watch zoom around their enclosure. Mickey is a cheeky chap, full of energy. Minnie loves to huddle in a comfy spot for a snooze but will appear in seconds for greens.

ey are excellent at using litter trays but require a quiet, adult home. Call the Tauranga centre on: 07 578 0245. Ref: 556265 and 556266.

region, the festival will have an exciting line-up of exhibitors and interactive elements, including animal dissections, rockets, robotics, smoothie bikes, fossils, building activities and much more!

Tia says STEMFest is scheduled for the second weekend of the school holidays – allowing out-of-town families to attend. Get free STEMFest tickets at: www.stemfest.nz

Cyclists beware: Blindzone demo awaits

After being canned last month due to bad weather, a Blindzone demonstration being hosted by Travel Safe and Share the Road will take place at Mount Maunganui on July 23.

e free event from 10am-2pm this Sunday at Tauranga Hockey Club carpark, Kawaka St, is for all the public – but is particularly aimed at cyclists. Share the Road campaign manager Richard Barter says the demonstration will allow cyclists to experience several blind spots rst-hand that prevent truck drivers from seeing people on bikes – because few people have any idea of what a driver can and can’t see from the seat of their truck.

“ is is a unique opportunity to sit in the driver’s seat of a big truck to learn just where you can and can't be seen on a bike. We mark out the blind zones with cones and tape and position vehicles and

bicycles in the blind zone areas then ask participants to nd them when they are in the driver’s seat.

“In the past we’ve even put re engines in a blind zone and participants were quite shocked to realise a vehicle as big as a re engine can be invisible to a driver!”

Travel Safe team leader Sonia Lynds wants bike riders of all abilities to attend, saying it’s often more con dent and faster cyclists who are more reluctant to use the separated cycle paths. “Cycling is a fun, convenient, and healthy way to get around and is a great choice for the environment.

“We want to make sure bike riders have the right information so they can ride safely whether as a form of transport or recreationally.”

e free Blindzone Demonstration is 10am2pm this Sunday, July 23, at Tauranga Hockey Club carpark.

Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council is exploring what changes need to be made to ensure the health of freshwater is protected and improved for future generations. We are holding events to discuss what the freshwater management issues are for the region and your area, and the draft options we are thinking about to manage them.

Get involved and have your say while the policy options are still draft

Upcoming events in your area:

Tauranga: Thursday 17 August, 10am-2pm: Location TBC

For a full list, go online: boprc.govt.nz/freshwater

Me mahi tahi tātou mō te oranga tonutanga o te wai māori

Let’s work together for the future of freshwater

Some of the sights, and activities on o er at STEMFest 2022.

Photo: Tauranga STEM Festival (STEMFest).

Strum a tune when you’re happy

Pūkeko, Kiwi and Hōiho are back and this time they are expressing their emotions with musical instruments and colour.

Pāpāmoa author and illustrator

Rebecca Larsen has launched her new book ‘Strum a Tune when you’re

happy Kei Te Pai’ where the birds perform with actions and waiata in Te Reo and English.

Big feelings

“ ere is a lot of anxiety around at the moment and lots of big feelings out there that a ect our kids, but it doesn’t have to be scary, emotions ow,

What’s Your Property Worth? Rachel Cole

just like the song in this book,” says Rebecca.

e 32-page full-colour book, for three-to-seven-year-olds, comes with a CD and is bursting with vibrant illustrations and fun actions, all to the tune of the well-loved song ‘When You’re Happy and You Know It Clap Your Hands’.

Rebecca is the well-loved author of ‘Row, Row, Row your Waka’, ‘Tane Mahuta has a Forest’, and ‘Twinkle Twinkle Matariki’.

An avenue

With ‘Strum a Tune’ she’s providing an avenue for children to tap into their feelings.

“I wanted to bring emotions to the forefront but express them in a way that’s approachable and fun.

“I chose to put this into a waiata so emotions are broken down in a way that are easy to understand, that can be aligned with actions, musical instruments and colour.”

Easy-to- nd instruments can be played with the book – which has English and te reo Māori words on every page and includes the

musical score. Each emotion is represented by a colour and musical action. Yellow is happy, strumming a tune; worried is green, whistling; anger is red, banging a drum. Orange is silly, with the cheeky kea clapping his feet, then all the colours form a rainbow with the love bird ringing a bell — the only non-native bird but chosen due to a special memory for the author.

“Something I included from my childhood in the book, was a stage that used to be set up in Foxton beach, it was a rainbow stage, we used to go as kids, there were free concerts in summer, and we’d sit in the stands and listen to music. is was a really happy memory. To me all

the colours represent love, love is the rainbow and acceptance.”

e Weekend Sun has one copy of ‘Strum a Tune when you’re happy Kei Te Pai’ by Rebecca Larsen to give away to one lucky reader. To enter, tell us what emotion in the book is expressed by the colour yellow. Enter at: www.sunlive.co.nz under the ‘Competitions’ tab. Entries must be received by Tuesday, July 25.

Tauranga Zinefest takes new direction

Tauranga’s annual Zinefest will in future be administered by Tauranga Arts Festival following co-founder and director Hannah Wynn gifting it to the festival.

Hannah, a graphic designer, wanted to ensure the future of the city’s one-day Zinefest now she’s moved to Hamilton and says that with an established relationship with the Arts Festival, the event couldn’t have a better guardian. “Lynette Fisher and I were studying together at Toi Ohomai when she suggested we put on a zinefest in 2016,” says Hannah.

“And I said: ‘what’s a zine?’.”

Pronounced ‘zeen’, zines are small, short-run, selfpublished, (maga)zines, covering all sorts of topics, including music, politics, sexuality and humour. Written, drawn by hand or digitally, painted, collaged, zines can take any form their maker desires. Culturally and historically, zines have served as an outlet for content outside the mainstream.

“Zinefests – and zines in general – provide a safe, independent platform for underrepresented and marginalised voices including Māori and other BIPOC communities, rangatahi, disabled people, the LGBTQIA+ community, and people with limited economic resources. One maker, Jakob, has been with us from the start, beginning as a rangatahi.

“His art has grown incredibly over the years and he’s inspired others to share their creativity through zines.

“ at’s why I’ve loved it.”

Hannah isn’t cutting her ties to Zinefest, which she’s managed solo since 2019, and will provide design and delivery support for the free event, as well as volunteering on the day.

Zinefest o ers sales stalls, talks and workshops, as well as networking opportunities.

Stall-holders have come from as far as Christchurch and Auckland. e rst Zinefest attracted 250 visitors, while last year it was a record 500. is year’s Zinefest is on Sunday, October 22.

Tauranga Zinefest in 2022. Photo: supplied.

Rosalie Liddle Crawford

Rebecca Larsen with her new book.

Photo: Logan Anger.

Watchdog’s five years of work

Tauranga Moana Biosecurity

Capital launched ve years ago this month, to champion regional biosecurity through awareness, connection and capability building.

“I’m so proud of what we’ve achieved in that time,” says outgoing TMBC co-chair Graeme Marshall. “We’ve come together as a group of people and organisations with a passion for protecting the environment against the devastating impact a biosecurity incursion would have on our economic and cultural health and wellbeing.”

e aim of the organisation is to ensure people are aware of the ow-on e ects of many industries being brought to a halt if a pest or disease was detected.

From the complete shutdown of the Port to the impact on transport networks and the resulting loss of income for horticulture and agriculture sectors, Graeme warns an incursion could have a bigger impact on our local and national economy than Covid-19.

Shift perception

“We are on a mission to shift New Zealanders’ perception of biosecurity, how it connects to our everyday lives and livelihoods, and how we can all play our part.

“Our focus is on working with mana whenua, highlighting the importance of biosecurity, and

building collaboration across iwi, hapū, community organisations, industry, business, science and mātauranga Māori experts, central government and local government to achieve biosecurity excellence.”

TMBC co-chair Carlton Bidois says a biosecurity incursion has the potential to a ect future generations – not just economically but culturally.

“We take the task of protecting against unwanted organisms seriously,” says Carlton.

“Biosecurity matters to anyone who harvests kaimoana or interacts with our mountains and native forests.

“It also matters to anyone earning a living and operating a business in the Western Bay of Plenty, where the economy is dependent on the natural environment.”

Collaborates

TMBC collaborates with organisations with ‘skin in the game’ regarding biosecurity, including regional councils, Port of Tauranga and stakeholders in the kiwifruit and avocado industries and Plant & Food Research, ensuring education, awareness and knowledge about ‘what to do if you spot a stink bug’, for example.

“We also take a multigenerational approach to our work with schools on getting children engaged with the environment through classroom lessons, garden projects and holiday programmes, as well as public awareness campaigns,” says Carlton.

For the past ve years, TMBC has worked as a loose collaboration but has now become an incorporated society. “ is will give us a more robust governance structure and deliver certainty for our partners and funders as a legal entity,” says Graeme.

“Building on our foundation of expertise, passion, and connection, TMBC is a great example of regional collaboration and partnership.

Hope

“Our hope is that other regions will pick up and adapt the TMBC model to extend biosecurity excellence across the country.”

At its inaugural AGM on July 17, TMBC formalised the change and welcomed new co-chair Dr Beccy Ganley.

Star hunt nearly over: Youngsters have only days left to celebrate Matariki at Tauranga Art Gallery! Until this Sunday, July 23, they can embark on a mission to locate all nine Matariki stars hidden throughout the gallery. A treat awaits the successful.

Debbie Griffiths

TMBC co-chairs Graeme Marshall and Carlton Bidois.

Photo: supplied.

Pāpāmoa man’s jungle mission

With a little help, it’s possible to save African lions from anywhere in the world, as proved by Pāpāmoa’s James Dorrington who is heading to South Africa in November.

Saving African wildlife has become his life mission and he’s asking Tauranga locals to pitch in and help raise funds for wildlife conservation projects there.

“I will be involved in the rescue of lions being bred illegally into captivity to be sold to trophy hunters.”

e lion rescue mission, his third wildlife trip, starts mid-November. “We have to wait until then to sort out all the equipment, get the team together and raise the funds for everything.”

Lions

James will be rescuing and relocating the lions to a safe area in Zimbabwe. “I am also planning some rehabilitation work for animals such as rhinos that have been orphaned or injured due to poaching.”

It all began for James when he volunteered at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa last July.

What was supposed to be a short working holiday quickly turned into a life-changing experience.

“I’ve since gone back to South Africa to study with the Nature College and continue working in wildlife conservation.”

Elephants

He’s worked closely with orphaned elephants, rescue lions and wild animals such as cheetah, white rhino, bu alo, gira e and many other species. “I have now made it my life mission to assist in the conservation of African wildlife and wherever possible,

assist in the war against poaching and canned hunting.”

James is now asking Kiwis for nancial help through a Givealittle page.

“ e money raised from this will cover the transportation costs of rescued lions between the canned hunting facility in South Africa to their new safe and healthy home in Zimbabwe.”

While the money will be used for a short operation involving the rescue and relocation of lions, any excess funds will go towards other ethical sanctuaries and wildlife conservation projects such as rescue and rehabilitation of orphaned rhinos.

“ e costs will also help to cover equipment, food and water during the rescue mission and nally money will be given to the sanctuary that will end up looking after these lions to support their ethical work in caring for them.”

James says the lion rescue mission will be followed by a lm crew and any operations he’s involved in will be shown through his Instagram.

“Just so people can see where the money they donate is going. A lot of people donate money to large charities and don’t see where it goes, but I want people to be able to see the animals they’re helping.”

Donate

His Givealittle page is an opportunity for anyone to help raise money for the operations.

“And I need help getting the word out there.”

To donate funds, visit: givealittle.co.nz/cause/ wildlife-conservation-and-rescueanimals-south Follow James’ updates on Instagram at: www.instagram.com/ james_dorrington

If you’d like to help James further, email him at: james_dorrington@hotmail.com

Rosalie Liddle Crawford

James Dorrington has worked closely with orphaned elephants. Photo: supplied.

A country estate that really feels like home

A place to call home awaits you at the multi award-winning retirement village, Carmel Country Estate.

Nestled in the heart of Ohauiti and north facing, Carmel Country Estate boasts magni cent gardens and Villas amongst 16 acres, soaked in all day sun. Carmel is situated 10 minutes from Bayfair and e Crossing at Tauriko, and provides a courtesy bus to go shopping each week. “We have a beautiful,

elevated site, enjoying all aspects of living from expansive waterviews, countryside vistas or just private seclusion. So, it’s a special location,” says Carmel Country Estate owner Jason Rowling.

Jason says one of Carmel’s biggest assets is that it’s privately owned and operated and has an open-door policy.

“Residents get treated more like a family member rather than a number; and our sta go beyond their call of duty to make sure our residents enjoy the golden years of their retirement.”

The Village Community Centre is fully equipped with a hair salon, beauty salon, library, gym, billiards and games room, outdoor/indoor bowling greens, woodwork and engineering workshop and a croquet and pétanque court. “We also host a visiting podiatrist and our resident nurse conducts free health checks.

“I see residents every day when they

come through our doors in the Community Centre and I’ve got to make sure they’ve got a smile on their face,” says Jason.

“Residents often comment that when they

drive through Carmel’s gates, they feel like they are home and that’s what is important to us; it’s more than a village, it’s a home.”

Govt encourages uptake of increased Rates Rebates

Local Government Minister Kieran McAnulty has recently announced an increase to the Rates Rebate Scheme.

He says the increase will help ensure about 100,000 low-income homeowners be able to pay their local council rates this coming nancial year.

e Rates Rebate Scheme is a partial refund for people who pay rates to their council. It exists to provide nancial relief for low-income Kiwis owning their own home, including those in retirement villages. “More than 100,000 successful applications were paid out in 2022/2023. is year we hope to see even more people eligible people

apply. We know times are tough for households and we hope to let those who are struggling know that support is there for them,” says McAnulty. e maximum rebate will increase from $700 to $750, and the income abatement threshold will rise from $28,080 to $30,100. ese adjustments match the 7.2 per cent rise of in ation of the 2022 calendar year.

Georgia Minkhorst

Carmel Country Estate owner Jason Rowling (left) with residents on the bowling greens.

A parent has dementia – does that mean I’ll get it?

Wondering if you can inherit dementia is a common concern. Most types of dementia are not inherited, but there are a few very rare types that have a genetic component.

Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common cause of dementia. More than 99 per cent of people with Alzheimer’s Disease do not have a form that can be passed on to their children.

e second most common cause of dementia is Vascular Disease. e percentage of people that can pass on Vascular Dementia to their children is even smaller than those that can pass on Alzheimer’s and is

incredibly rare. When thinking about reducing our risks of developing dementia, the most important thing to consider is how to keep your overall health good – because what is good for your heart, is good for your brain.

It’s also good to keep socially connected. When we interact with other people, we use every part of our brain and give our brain a really good workout. A simple chat over co ee with friends, musing over the day’s hot topics, is the mental

Get ya’ dancing shoes on in mural town

Get your dancing shoes on and suit up for a fun day of dancing in Katikati.

e Muraltown Line Dancers of Katikati are hosting their line dance fundraiser social event at the Katikati War Memorial Hall from 11am-4pm on Sunday, August 13.

Pull out your cowboy boots and your checkered shirt, because the theme of the

day is Western style. Hot drinks will be provided, but attendees are asked to bring their own lunches.

Entry costs $5 at the door and all pro ts will go to supporting St John Ambulance and St Peter’s Church.

For more information, email Lurline Plummer on: lurline.plummer@gmail.com or phone: 07 552 0885.

equivalent of a full physical workout at a gym. Missing out on these social conversations can cause the brain to shrink in size.

Being socially isolated or lonely has also been linked to increasing

the risk of developing dementia. If you are worried about your risk of getting dementia, give me a call: Ruth omas, EnlivenPlus. Phone: 07 547 4349. EnlivenPlus provides specialist dementia care from $60.

Make Matua Village your home

Enjoy living independently in a tightknit community of like-minded people at Matua Village.

Family-owned and tucked away in a great location, Matua Village has been providing high quality senior living facilities for the past 40 years.

General manager Tristan Rodgers says Matua Village is unique in that it is small, quiet and provides residents a calm pace of life. “It’s a nice community where people look after each other and has more of a family feel,” says Tristan.

Set on 10 acres, Matua Village is handy to Cherrywood Shopping Centre, Fergusson Park, Tauranga Harbour’s waterfront and scenic walking tracks. “We’re next to the Matua Salt Marshes so the village lends itself to people who like gardens and the outdoors.”

With only 68 units, Tristan says all the sta and residents get to know one another by name.

“We will check on our residents every day – whether it’s

the weekend or public holidays.”

Residents can also enjoy bus trips, exercise classes, happy hours and more. “For Matariki, we had a weaving class for the residents which was very popular, an astronomy tour and a tour around the Port of Tauranga. So we provide fun trips for our residents as well.

“If people are interested in joining a community of likeminded people who are sociable, friendly and want to be in a small family atmosphere village community, then this is the place for them.”

Matua Village has cottages and apartments available now. Meet the village for yourself!

Georgia Minkhorst

MSD office in city closes for renovations

e Ministry of Social Development o ce at 73 Durham Street in Tauranga – which has a Senior Services section – is closing temporarily while building improvements are underway.

“We’re upgrading our Tauranga service centre to help it work better for clients and sta ,” says Bay of Plenty Social development regional commissioner Mike Bryant.

“We’ll have a more welcoming o ce, clients will have more privacy when they talk with a case manager; and there will be added security for

clients, visitors, and our people.”

Mike says these changes have been tested in some service centres and they’ve had good feedback.

“Our recent Greerton re t was very well received.”

e Tauranga o ce will close midday today, Friday, July 21, and it will take about three weeks to complete the work.

Although the service centre will be temporarily closed, sta will be working from other locations and will be able to help online or by phone, says Mike.

Anyone who needs help can still get in touch with us by logging into MyMSD or calling: 0800 559 009 (general enquiries), 0800 552 002 (Senior Services) or: 0800 889 900 (StudyLink). e o ce is scheduled to re-open on Tuesday, August 15, at 9.30am.

WAIHI BEACH

Matua Village sta and residents get to know one another by name.

Photo: John Borren.

May we have this dance?

Darryl Jensen credits dance for his marriage. “My wife and I met through dancing,” he explains. “I was invited to a rock and roll party that was a vice versa theme. All the guys went to one of the lady’s homes to get our make-up done – and I met Joan.” at was more than 30 years ago. “ ose were the days when we were younger and I could throw her up in the air,” laughs Darryl. “I couldn’t manage it now, but we still have so much fun

on the dance oor.”

Darryl and Joan used to teach and now organise weekly socials on Tuesdays from 1pm-3pm at the Tauranga Citizens Club.

“Since Covid-19, numbers have dropped o a lot,” says Darryl.

“It’s nice to have so much space on the dance oor – but the social aspect is one of the things we love, so we’d love to get more people coming along to give it a go.”

It’s mostly ballroom-style dancing to suit the older age group, but Darryl is open to any dance style.

“I have a music library with around 6000 songs,” he says.

“But dancers can make requests or even bring along their own music.”

Darryl says the socials are open to anyone interested in learning how to dance to take a look and to get information about dance classes around the city that would suit them best.

To nd out more information about ballroom dancing, phone Joan on: 021 323 325.

A retirement village flourishing with life

Since its opening in 2017, e Vines at Bethlehem has become home to 230 residents seeking an active retirement experience. Originally the iconic Mills Reef winery, this Classic Life retirement village has transformed into a thriving community, preserving its original Art Deco look and feel.

e Vines recently celebrated the o cial opening of the Clubhouse, bringing together residents and individuals involved in the project from its earliest stages. e Clubhouse stands as a testament to the visionary spirit and dedication of all those who contributed to its creation.

Award-winning clubhouse

Nominated for the Property Council’s Industry Property Awards, e Vines o ers a range of amenities within its vibrant Clubhouse. From a co ee lounge to a movie theatre, bar, hairdresser, and beautician, residents enjoy a variety of services.

Additional features include a meeting room, library, art and craft space, a cards room, billiard and snooker room, indoor and outdoor bowls, a function room, indoor heated swimming pool, gym, and outdoor spaces to enjoy seasonal occasions.

With its rich history and modern o erings, e Vines presents a retirement village surrounded by the scenic beauty of the area o ering a wonderful choice of indoor and outdoor activities.

Open day

e Vines will be hosting open days in August to provide an opportunity for those interested to visit the village, take a tour of the showhome and join the team for some freshly baked specialities and a barista co ee.

“Please keep an eye out for details,” says e Vines sales manager Tony Stack.

“We will announce dates and times to join us. is might be an ideal time to talk through your retirement options, and we have some aces up our sleeve to sweeten the deal!”

e award-winning e Vines’ village Clubhouse.

Darryl Jensen and Joan HansfordJensen just love to dance!

Photos: John Borren. Debbie Griffiths

Where is the Chondroitin? – Part 2

Abundant Health Bettaflex Super Joint Formula

What is Bettaflex?

• Bettaflex is a joint support formula to promote healthy joint cartilage function.

• Bettaflex has 400mg (per capsule) of high-grade avian chondroitin, 400mg of glucosamine and 100mg of BioSolve® bioavailable Curcumin (from turmeric).

• Try Bettaflex for 3 months and see for yourself. How can Bettaflex help?

BEST BUY!

$99.95 for 3 bottles free freight or 1 bottle for $36.95 plus $5.99 postage 60 Capsules per Bottle

• Chondroitin and glucosamine are building blocks of cartilage.

• Supplementation with correct levels can support healthy cartilage function and cartilage repair processes.

• New BioSolve® bioavailable curcumin helps joint function while gentle on the stomach.

• Research indicates that chondroitin is highly effective at 800mg daily.

John Arts comments:

“My latest Bettaflex formula includes BioSolve® bioavailable curcumin for faster results. The normal dose is 2 capsules daily but I recommend an initial higher dose for 1-3 bottles to saturate joint tissue.”

John Arts, Founder, Abundant Health Cautions:

TO ORDER PHONE: 0800 423 559

PROBLEMS WITH YOUR

EARS?

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Last time I asked why most New Zealand-made osteoarthritis support supplements have little or no Chondroitin Sulphate. e research in favour of CS is overwhelming. So much so, that CS is listed as a prescription medicine by the European Medical Agency. e daily dosage recommendation is 800mg, which is the dosage I use in my joint supplement. I combine CS with 800mg of Glucosamine and 100mg of new generation Biosolve curcumin from turmeric.

Positive e ects

Experts suggest CS has more than 30 positive e ects on joints. ese are changes that create cartilage (anabolic), and those that prevent the destruction of cartilage (anti-catabolic). Cells called chondrocytes are responsible for repairing, maintaining, and

secreting cartilage. ey produce CS as it is an important part of both joint capsule uid (synovial uid) and actual cartilage.

Critical

CS is critical as it helps chondrocytes to repair damaged cartilage. If these cells are damaged or die, the cartilage they maintain will eventually disintegrate.

e second role of CS is preventing the loss of chondrocytes from damage by destructive enzymes and free radicals. is is all great in theory, but what are the impacts of adding therapeutic doses of

CS in someone with advanced osteoarthritis? I was contacted by someone in her mid-70s with severe osteoarthritis in one knee and moderately severe in the other. is a ected her mobility and she was unable to walk for any distance. I started her on my standard osteoarthritis programme based on an intensive dose of my joint supplement and Omega 3 sh oil to reduce in ammation. After two months she noticed her knees were more comfortable. After six months the pain had signi cantly reduced, and she can now walk freely. For more information give me a call or email: john@abundant.co.nz

Read my newsletter at: www.abundant.co.nz

John Arts is a quali ed nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health. Contact John on 0800 423 559. Read more at: www.sunlive.co.nz

Hearing solutions tailored to you

Starting from the boot of a car in 2013, Hear Again is delighted to have opened their third clinic right here in the Bay of Plenty!

Hear Again has been bringing exceptional ear care and hearing aid services to Auckland and Christchurch for the past 10 years – and is now welcoming clients to their Papamoa clinic.

Kiwi owners, Steve and Samantha Foster, and their professional team, are dedicated to enhancing your quality of life through hearing.

“Hearing loss is very personal. It is something many people can be embarrassed about and reluctant to address,” says Samantha.

“We are passionate about making your journey to improving your hearing as simple and comfortable as possible; from the removal of ear wax to the provision

of the very latest hearing aids.” As independent operators, Hear Again deals with a diverse range of hearing aid manufacturers to bring you the best and personalised solution. “ e big chains are owned by hearing aid companies, which is not really common knowledge.

“ ey’re limited with what to t and it’s generally not a ‘one size ts all’ with your hearing.

“Customer service is our absolute main goal. With us, you’ll always see the same clinician and build up a rapport with that clinician. We can tailor make something with the client and if it’s not working, we can try something else.”

Hear Again is o ering a special deal for e Weekend Sun readers. Mention you read this editorial at Hear Again’s Papamoa clinic and receive a free hearing check or $10 o earwax removal.

Georgia Minkhorst

Hear Again’s Samantha and Steve Foster. Photo: supplied.

Overcoming stumbling blocks Service marks 25 years

e New Zealand Blood Service is marking quarter of a century of lifesaving work this month when it turns 25.

Established in 1998, the service transformed what was then a disjointed blood transfusion sector into a national organisation that’s helped to save or improve more than 540,000 lives.

NZBS chief executive Sam Cli e says New Zealand is internationally recognised for its safe, quality supply of blood and blood products. “We’ve consistently introduced new

“But none of what we do would have been possible without our donors’ sel ess generosity.”

e heroes

More than 610,000 people have donated during the service’s lifetime, with active donors at around 117,000 people.

“Our donors really are the heroes of our story,” says Sam. “ ere is no substitute for what they gift to us – they enable us to supply blood and products that improve or save the lives of around 30,000 people every year.” A single blood donation can save up to three lives and NZ needs more than 5000 donations weekly to meet demand.

5.1 million

“When we began in 1998 we served a population of around 3.8 million,” says Sam “But that gure has now climbed to more than 5.1 million, and demand for plasma

has increased exponentially and continues to grow by around 10 per cent every year.”

In 25 years, more than 1.3 million kilograms of plasma have been transformed into 11 products used to treat people who have lost a lot of blood, or who have severe bleeding during surgery. is ‘liquid gold’ is also used to boost immune systems of people with low levels of antibodies, to control some autoimmune disorders, and to support people with certain bleeding disorders.

Since 1998 NZBS has collected more than 3.1 million donations of whole blood and 98,000 donations of platelets, and issued more than 2.5 million units of red blood cells.

To ensure Aotearoa remains selfsu cient for its blood and blood products the NZBS invites new donors to join its lifesaving whanau – even if it means only donating once or twice a year.

“We’ll be seeking around 40,000 new donors during the next 12 months, and every drop counts,” says Sam. To learn more about becoming a donor, visit: www.nzblood.co.nz

A collagen treat for your skin

Looking for an advanced skin treatment with a range of bene ts and minimal downtime?

Have you ever considered micro-needling? We understand if you’re a bit apprehensive, it can sound scary at rst, but we promise it isn’t. Collagen Induction erapy – CIT – is a revolutionary procedure that is non-invasive yet extremely e ective.

CIT, also known as medical microneedling, is a skin-enhancing procedure that triggers your skin’s natural regenerative processes, igniting the production of collagen. With expert precision, we skilfully penetrate the top layer of your skin using a professional device equipped with very small needles. is controlled action triggers a natural healing process without signi cantly a ecting your skin. e creation of these micro-channels awakens the broblast, which

is a powerful skin cell responsible for producing healthy collagen.

After a course of CIT, your skin is visibly revitalised, rejuvenated, replenished, and regenerated. Fine lines will minimise, pores will shrink, acne scarring will reduce and your skin texture will improve. It’s like hitting the refresh button for your complexion.

After your treatment at Jamele, we’ll apply a Cooling Epi Nouvelle Cellulose face mask to soothe and cool the skin and reduces downtime.

You can also take this mask home with you. Let us show you the power of Collagen Induction erapy. With its remarkable bene ts, and minimal downtime you’ll be hooked in no time. Book a 30-minute CIT Initial Consultation with Jamele to assess the suitability of this advanced treatment for your skin. We can’t wait to treat you.

“ e di erence between a stumbling block and a stepping stone is how high you raise your foot” – Benny Lewis.

ere will always be hurdles and obstacles in our lives. What moulds your future is how much e ort you put into overcoming those stumbling blocks. ey can be overwhelming and will remain stumbling blocks until you challenge them and explore what can be more productive ways around how to deal with them. Are these stumbling blocks

holding you back? Or are you willing to face your fears and explore how to turn them into stepping stones?

Would you like to learn more about coaching, to explore more of your potential and to deal with stress or con ict? Phone Mary Parker, e Fast Track Coach, on 021 258 2145, or visit: www.thefasttrackcoach.co.nz

Gigs – this week folks, it’s just gigs...

I have a great story to tell you but no space this week. It’s like that sometimes. Gigs, gigs, gigs. Even halfway through writing this column I got a call asking if I could mention another gig happening next week. And since that takes priority over my stories – however fascinating I might personally

SUDOKU

nd them – we’ll head immediately to ‘Stu Coming Up’.

First up, next Tuesday, July 25, is when the Tauranga Acoustic Music Club does its business. ey’re hosting award-winning Waikato duo Sadie and Jay (who were recently at Katikati Folk Club for what was I hear an excellent show) at the RSA, Greerton.

of years back and says: “As far as I’m concerned coming down here was the best thing I’ve ever done. I love the town people; the musical community is friendly, helpful and encouraging; it

from ragtime blues and comical ditties

Both are multi-instrumentalists: expect harmonies, stringed instruments including guitar and upright bass, and music ranging from ragtime blues and comical ditties to folk epics. Local legend Bill Ward plays support. It’s a 7pm start with no admission charge but a hat for koha. e next thing on my radar is Aucklander Jazmine Mary, coming to e Jam Factory next ursday, July 27, to promote her new album ‘Dog’, joined for the night by ARAHI.

Jazmine Mary is rather extraordinary, singing slow, thoughtful, lyrically-striking songs with a constantly surprising voice, intimate and very beautiful with unexpectedly dips into a lower register.

Dog

e 2022 winner of the Auckland Live Best Independent Debut Award, and opener for Kurt Vile, Billy Bragg, ‘Dog’ is Jazmine’s second album and comes on like a re ned luscious Courtney Barnett, both personal and mysterious. It’s a 7pm show, tickets $25.

A couple of nights later, on July 29, same place, it’s the complete opposite. Instead of youth and beauty, meet... Gary Harvey! Sorry Gary, I couldn’t resist. A self-described “old blues rocker”, this is a birthday gig along with new band e Loose Unit. Gary turns 77 on Wednesday. After decades in Auckland with previous bands the Red House Rockers and, since the 1990s e Night Owls, he moved to Tauranga a couple

reminds me very much of Austin, Texas, where I’ve spent a bit of time, it has a very similar vibe”.

is show showcases a new album Gary has been recording at Welcome Bay’s Colour eld. He started it with the musicians from R‘n’B band Brilleaux shortly after arriving here, but much has changed since.

Guitarist Bruce Rolands is the only Brilleaux member remaining, with the rhythm section now comprising Pat

Hawkins (bass) and Je Nilson (drums), two names long entwined with the Tauranga scene, a pair who have played together for decades. e Colour eld’s studio wiz Tim Julian is on keyboards and at the Jam Factory they’ll be joined by a couple of killer horn players, Mark Denison and Neville Grenfell. I don’t know Neville but saxophonist Mark is a monster player with a resume that includes Dave Dobbyn, John Farnham and Australian Crawl.

includes Dave Dobbyn, John Farnham and Australian Crawl.

Introductions

Gary says this show is about introducing him and his music. He’ll feature tracks from his previous two albums as well as previewing new songs. Ex-B-Side Band members Paul Parkhouse, Josh Durning and Mike Kirk will be playing support. It’s at 7pm with $25 tickets. And if you are of a bluesy persuasion, that music also features at e Jam Factory the following Saturday, August 5, which is International Blues Music Day and sees the combined talents of Rotorua’s Kaos Blues Revue Band, Mike Garner, a couple of Kokomo members, and various guests including a woman singer and a sax player, congregate for a serious night of jamming a bluesy fun.

Saturday, August 5, of

Tickets are $20 for a 7pm show. Lastly, and needing no introduction... multi-award-winner Reb Fountain is returning to the Katikati Folk Club at e Arts Junction on Sunday, July 30, with her full band. Just returned from a UK tour and on the back of the release of her new single ‘Faithless Lover’, this should be wonderful. Reb sold-out quickly last time so you might want to book on the Folk Club website. Members $20; casuals $25; show starts 7.30pm.

SAT 22nd Self Righteous Brothers 2pm–5pm Piston Broke 7.30pm–10.30pm

SUN 23rd John Michaels & Black Brothers 3pm–6pm

MON 24th Jack Dusty’s Ukelele Players 6pm–7.30pm

WED 26th Jack Dusty’s Open Mic All styles welcome - 7pm start

Instead of youth and beauty, meet...

Sadie and Jay.

Gary Harvey.

Jazmine Mary.

Photo Jim Tannock.

Reb Fountain (far right) and her band.

A magical concert celebrating Aotearoa’s favourite dog!

Opus Orchestra is thrilled to announce ‘Hairy Maclary’s Greatest Hits’, a magical concert that will captivate the entire family, commemorating the 40th birthday of Aotearoa’s beloved canine icon!

Prepare to be swept away as the enchanting characters from Lynley Dodd’s cherished stories come to life through the mesmerising melodies crafted by composer Jan Bolton.

Get to mini gala to support Katikati man

If you’re looking for a fun activity this Saturday, with a good cause, a mini gala day being held in Katikati could be the perfect solution.

Children’s Choir, this orchestral event is set to be a one-of-a-kind experience!

e theme of building your relationship with not only God, but all those around you is on o er at a Beauty for Ashes seminar titled ‘Friendships & Relationships’ this Saturday, July 22, in Tauranga.

Founded by pastors Tonia and Jim Butler in 1999, Beauty for Ashes Ministries is an interdenominational and itinerant faith-based ministry, with a vision to bring hope, compassion, restoration and healing to people’s lives.

Tonia says the ministry has been 24 years in the making.

“ is Saturday’s seminar is set to equip women to understand to go better at being friendship-makers and overall look at relationships in general. With one another, attendees will be able to take away tools for making and maintaining friendships, and working on healthy relationship life skills.”

Guest speaker Rosalind Sigurdardottir has an amazing moving personal story of God’s Restoration and Morag Russell will also be in

Hairy Maclary, Schnitzel von Krumm, and their adorable companions come to life through enchanting tunes matched with projections of your favourite books! It’s an event that will leave you and your little ones spellbound. Join us for this celebration of Hairy Maclary’s 40th birthday, a testament to the enduring legacy and timeless charm of these treasured stories. Tauranga City Council is thrilled to announce this concert will be interpreted by a New Zealand Sign Language interpreter, ensuring all individuals can fully participate and enjoy the event.

enchanting tunes matched with projections of

e Roy Nugter mini gala day is on Saturday, July 22, from 8am-noon at the Katikati Anglican Church, on the corner of Beach Rd and Carisbrooke St. Hosted in support of Roy, a Katikati resident, who has been

diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, the funds raised on the day will go to supporting Roy’s continued Keytruda treatments. ere will be a bake sale, orchid plants, a garage sale, face painting, balloons, and a sausage sizzle.

For more information and to make a donation to Roy’s treatment, visit: givealittle.co.nz/cause/for-myson-kobie

Singers to delight with big musical hits!

Katikati Mural Town Singers are ready to heat things up this winter with their upcoming concert ‘Spotlight on Broadway’ next month.

Hairy Maclary's Greatest Hits will be coming to Baycourt Addison eatre on Saturday, July 29, at 4pm.

For more information and ticket bookings, visit: www.opusorchestra.co.nz/upcoming or for Hamilton and Tauranga: www.ticketek.co.nz and Rotorua: www.ticketmaster.co.nz

Building better relationships

attendance. As such, Tonia encourages women from all walks of life to come and be a part of the day. “We cater for a wide variety of ladies across the board – we are an interdenominational

“New ladies come in with our regular ladies, who just love coming!”

Pastors Tonia and Jim currently attend Abundant Life church, and are based in Tauranga, however have been hiring Ōtūmoetai 20 years on

During the last few years they’ve also been holding retreat days in Tairua in e Anglican Church, and have travelled to many di erent locations including Fiji and the South Island with varied themes with the ministry, to build into ladies’ lives.

Beauty for Ashes is at Ōtūmoetai Baptist Chapel 241, Ōtūmoetai Rd, Tauranga, from 9.45am-3pm this Saturday, July 22. Bring and share lunch.

Door entry is a $10 donation – sorry: no childcare or Eftpos.

Choir director Edwin Randell says concert-goers will enjoy all their favourite songs from a range of musicals. “ ink ‘Chicago’, ‘Les Miserables’, ‘Phantom of the Opera’, ‘Grease’, ‘My Fair Lady’, ‘Rent’ – just to mention a few!”

Katikati Mural Town Singers’ concert ‘Spotlight on Broadway’ is on Sunday, August 6, from 2pm at St Paul’s Presbyterian Church, corner State Highway 2/Mulgan St, Katikati.

Door tickets costs $10 per adult, children can enter via gold coin donation.

To nd out more about Mural Town Singers, phone Julie on: 021 1733 777.

accompanied by the incredible vocals of Jackie Clarke and the Tron Songsters

Jackie Clarke will provide vocals to ‘Hairy Maclary’s Greatest Hits’ show. Photo: supplied.

Ella McConnell

Jim and Tonia Butler. Photo: supplied.

Conducted by Michael Joel and the

Let’s keep it serene, green and peaceful!

e saying ‘Why x something that’s not broken?’ pertains perfectly to the proposed community stadium

at the Tauranga Domain. Leave the stadium as it is. On a recent trip to Tauranga Hospital the tra c on

Churches Active In Our Community

One jealous God...

God is presented to us in scripture as a jealous God, but in a positive sense.

A secondary meaning of ‘jealous’ is being extremely careful in protecting someone or something. For example, ‘her parents used to keep a jealous watch over her...’ (source: online Cambridge Dictionary).

So God is jealous in the sense that He’s extremely concerned about His people’s physical and spiritual welfare.

e fact of God being jealous in this way is shared in the Bible in the context of a culture where people were greatly harmed through being deceived into worshipping the sun, moon and stars, and other fake gods. is harm, among other serious things, included the o ering of child sacri ces to false gods.

You could well understand being angry about this if you were the only true God. A fundamental teaching of Christianity, Judaism and Islam (monotheistic religions) is indeed there’s only one God who made everything.

What do you believe – one God, multiple Gods or no God?

Perhaps a bigger question is why do you believe what you believe?

Is your belief based on good reason, emotions, culture or bias?

I’ve discovered strong objective reasons for believing in the God revealed in scripture. As you’d expect, He’s not left the world in the dark as to what He’s like and what He requires. He’s even walked in our shoes. He can be known today.

I’m convinced He’s extremely jealous for both your welfare on this earth and your eternal welfare!

Please contact me at: churchofgodslove4@ gmail.com to hear more.

David Kidd, Church of God’s Love

Cameron Rd was horrendous, now the Commissioners want to create more tra c congestion on Cameron Rd by building a new stadium that will also see an increase in rates due to construction costs and ongoing maintenance.

When I lived in Christchurch I used to enjoy eating lunch at the Christchurch Botanical Gardens, it was very serene, green and peaceful – which is what many Tauranga residents feel about the Tauranga Domain.

If a modern stadium is on the

Commissioners’ wishlist they should consider building it at Baypark away from Tauranga’s main road and where the appropriate infrastructure already exists. Leave the Domain as it is and relieve the people of Tauranga of future stress over rates increases and more tra c congestion on Cameron Rd.

Fabian Lukich, Te Puke.

TCC replies: It’s encouraging to see so much interest in this community-led initiative, which the council could look to support, if there is su cient enthusiasm

for the proposal, which is still in the early stages. No decisions have been made yet and before going any further we’re looking to establish more detail around the costs, bene ts and get a better understanding of the views of the community. e current survey is an important part of that process and we encourage anyone with an interest in the proposal to get involved and go to the Tauranga City Council website to share their thoughts before Friday, July 21, 2023.

Priorities are amiss! A cycling hope...

I have been a ratepayer in this ne city for a relatively short time. What staggered me most was that a city that receives some 1500mm of rain per year did not have a reliable water supply with restrictions being applied for months during the summer. ere still does not appear to be any proposed reservoir construction – but funds can be found for a $250m stadium. Will the Commissioners, Nigel Tutt, and the Priority One group give personal guarantees to nance any budget overruns that will inevitably occur? Priorities are amiss! R Sapwell, Bethlehem. TCC replies: We’re planning for growth and resilience in Tauranga’s water network. As a rapidly growing city, we must adjust to changing environmental challenges by following good water conservation practices.

It’s important we are mindful of our water use all year round, and that’s why we launched the Tauranga Water Watchers plan. e streams providing our city with water are aquifer fed and rely on regular rain to replenish these aquifers.

During periods of drought or drier than normal weather these aquifers are not recharged at a rate that the city is using water – this is why we ask you to conserve water when it is hot. When it is wet, the rainfall is great for replenishing the aquifers that supply our streams. However, high rainfall stirs up dirty sediment in the streams which makes treating the water a lot harder.

We’ve recently celebrated the opening of the Waiāri Water Supply Scheme, which has boosted reliability in our water supply and will future proof Tauranga’s water demands for the next 30 years.

I have been to the Mount a few times in the past month and going on Maunganui Rd to Hewletts Rd, where the lovely cycleway is, I have not seen one bike rider on the cycleway. I saw on Saturday, July 14, three girls on e-scooters but they were on the footpath. My only hope that the cycleway being built on Cameron Rd will get more use. I rarely see a bike rider on the parts of cycleway that are complete. I, like many others, really feel for the business owners not only during construction of bus lanes and cycleways but in the future when most of the parking outside shops will have gone.

Wendy Galloway, Omokoroa.

BETH

BETH

The impact of traffic congestion

With the Western Bay of Plenty seriously short of transport infrastucture, the attention during the last few weeks has rightly been on the roads that we desperately need be built to ease congestion, move freight and free up land for housing.

While we need to catch-up on the roads that cater for current and future growth in our region, it’s also very clear that solely building roads for private motor vehicles won’t be enough – we need to use the roads that we have in a better way. For various reasons, we are a city that uses cars more than we should. ere are some very practical reasons for this – we have a distributed workforce, a spread out city and other commitments like children, sports etc. While those reasons are understandable, it doesn’t mean we can ignore the way we use our transport system – we all need to do our bit to get better outcomes.

e best way to do this is to make changes to our habits, reducing car-based travel and therefore the volume of tra c on the roads and, critically, at peak times. is is a very clear imperative, many cities and regions in the world are trying to make their transport systems more e cient.

At Priority One, we are keen for the business community and their sta to take the lead on

‘mode shift’. Transport congestion a ects businesses in a number of ways, from parking for sta to reduced productivity for freight, so businesses have a vested interest in making our transport system more e cient. So, earlier in the month we launched the Shift Hub, in collaboration with partners, a pop-up showcase of many alternative, more sustainable transport modes available to change our region’s travel habits – this includes e-bikes, e-motorbikes, public transport (bus), car share, e-scooters, e-mopeds, e-skateboards, rideshare, walking and cycling.

Clearly, if shifting the way we travel was easy, we would see a large amount of people doing it already, so we need to better understand commuter habits, barriers and needs. A key theme of the Shift Hub is to work with commuters to capture data on how they travel, to understand opportunities to shift and educate on options available.

Information collected throughout July via the Shift Hub will be shared with local government to help inform decisions on our regions infrastructure. Being willing to change is a key part of better outcomes for the whole community. We’re calling on local businesses to play an active role in this change so we can have a more e cient and sustainable transport system for everyone.

trades & services

HANDYMAN, section maintenance, lawns, decks, fencing, pergolas, painting, water blasting and odd jobs. Free quotes. Ph Rossco 027 270 3313 or 021 544 5911

funeral services

public notices

BAYPARK TO BAYFAIR LINK

OVERNIGHT CLOSURE OF MAUNGANUI ROAD

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency wishes to advise that Maunganui Road northbound (between Exeter Street and Concord Avenue) will be closed overnight from Sunday 23 July to Thursday 27 July (approximately 7pm to 6am each night).

During these hours, the following signposted detours will apply:

For Maunganui Road northbound between Exeter Street and Bayfair roundabout – detour via the Bayfair flyover, SH2 north, the Golf Road roundabout and SH2/Maunganui Road south.

• For light vehicles travelling Maunganui Road northbound between Bayfair roundabout and Concord Avenue – detour via Girven Road, Oceanbeach Road and Golf Road. Vehicles over 12m long will be permitted entry through the closure at the Bayfair roundabout.

In the event of bad weather or unforeseen circumstances, the closures may be moved to the next suitable night/s. Waka Kotahi thanks road users and local residents for their patience.

welcome bay

ACHILLES CRESCENT Sunday 23

July 8:30am, Crockery, plants/pots, handyman/gardening stu , shing gear and more.

20 Words for $25.00 with FREE signs & price stickers!

bible digest

BY THE SAME word the present heavens and earth are reserved for re, being kept for the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly. 2 Peter 3:7

curriculum vitae

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

gardening

ABLE GARDENER, experienced, e cient, knowledgeable, highly quali ed. Maintenance, pruning, hedges, shrubs, roses; disease/pest control, lifestyle blocks, garden renovations; design & plant. Ph Tita 027 654 8781 or a/h 542 0120

livestock

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

FOUND KITTENS & PUPPIES various places, colours and sex. Ph SPCA 07 578 0245 for further details.

HANDYMAN, decks, fencing repairs, painting, water blasting, lawns, and odd jobs. Free quotes Ph Rossco 027 270 3313

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

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

travel & tours

NO 8 TOURS New Zealand’s Senior Travel Club- Join our Club today to for free and receive all our VIP Members Bene ts exclusive to No 8 Tours. Our Brand-New Catalogue jam-packed ll of tours is now available, don’t miss out. These include Extended Tours, Day Trips and Shows with a FREE Door to Door Service. • Wearable Arts

Wellington & Martinborough 28th Sept - 1st Oct 2023 - 4 Days.

• Hawkes Bays Vineyards & Historic Homes 10th - 15th Oct 2023 - 6 Days. • Taranaki Rhododendron & Garden Festival 27th - 30th

Oct 2023- 4 Days. • Northern Coromandels Hidden Secrets 30th Nov - 1st Dec-4 2023 Days.

• Christchurch Stay & Play 18th24th Jan 2024 - 7 Days. BOOK NOW: Ph. No8 Tours team on 579 3981 Or Email admin@no8tours.co.nz Or visit www.no8tours.co.nz to view and book all our tours.

ZEALANDIER TOURS Wednesday

26th July – Mid-Winter Christmas Lunch – Due to popular demand, we are running a 2nd vehicle! A 3 course traditional Xmas lunch, including a visit from Santa. Still a couple of seats available. Ph 572 4118 to book yours.

"Oliver was a wonderful person to work with and showed genuine empathy and understanding"

Oliver Marriner - Funeral Director