The Weekend Sun - 11 August 2023

Babes and balls

The Tauranga Coasters – our very own women’s representative squad – will compete in the D-League tournament in Auckland on August 16-19 with their kids cheering on the sidelines. Some will even need breastfeeding once the game is over. That’s because this year Tauranga City Basketball Association has invested heavily in the women’s side of

the game. “The development league has created space for women to compete,” says coach Chelseah Savage. “It’s a competitive league. It’s tough.” Chelsea admires players such as Laura Kuka, pictured with her two year-old son Lua Kuka, who juggle busy family lives with basketball training. Laura is one of three mums on the Coasters team.

“I’m so proud of our mothers in the team who commit to this,” says Chelseah. “Young kids get to see their mums playing which is so cool. I take my hat off to the women. “They get full credit.”

Read more about how the culture of basketball is changing, to where having children isn’t a barrier, on page 6. Photo: John Borren.

Friday 11 August 2023

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Balderdash, blather and beauty

“O

jogo bonito!” said the The Doe. Pardon? “Futbol, le

What on earth? “Edson Arantes do Nascimento – ‘Pele’, they’re his words.

“Football the beautiful game.’”

Pele could certainly play the game – a genius with both feet, a tower in the air, his name is uttered in the same breath as Maradona and Messi. But, the bucks and I would challenge his right to use the words ‘beautiful’ and soccer or football in the same sentence.

‘Beautiful’ suggests exciting aesthetic pleasure, or delighting the senses, or the mind.

But we reckon football’s just another ritual, rag tag, tribal skirmish involving a ball – like rugby

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

or league. It doesn’t qualify to be called ‘beautiful’.

It just doesn’t.

Sheer unpredictability

“Now listen up you lopeared lunkhead,” says The Doe from the depths of the sofa where, every day, she’s been intravenously feeding herself three hours of live FIFA Women’s World Cup TV games, replays and bits and bobs of highlights.

“There might not be a cast-iron globally accepted explanation for football being called ‘beautiful’,” says The Doe. “But it’s adored and beloved for its sheer unpredictability, its ability to unite people through the fanhood, and for being a visual spectacle. It’s not sport, it’s religion – and you can’t shake the faith. So beautiful on many levels.”

An estimated 270 million people in 200 countries play football. Billions more watch on TV. “Tell THEM football doesn’t tickle their senses; that the beautiful game falls short of what you perceive as something beautiful.” Well…let’s try. The bucks reckon, and I agree, that beauty in sport is something like ‘the try from the end of the world’ at Eden Park in 1994. Philippe SaintAndre gathers the ball 80 metres out, it passes through nine sets of hands and a ruck, and after a medley of draw and pass rugby and angled running lines Jean-Luc Sadourny scores to win the game for France right on time.

An All Black crowd is gut-shot. Silenced. Beautiful!

But we don’t forget nor forgive, we will repay “avec intérêt” at the RWC come September. There’s a killer-blow forward pass that needs redressing too. Four thousand people saw that Eden Park game in ‘94. “Not quite the 42,958 people who packed out the same venue for the see Portugal versus USA group

game last week. “No New Zealand team, but a record football crowd for men or women in this country. A strong statement for the pulling power of the beautiful game.”

A book...

But 90 minutes of scorelessness? “A game of football is a book of many chapters,” explains The Doe. “And each chapter in this book was a thriller. The champions survive a huge scare from the decided underdogs, could have been one of the great tournament upsets with a late shot off the woodwork.

“A beautiful thing.”

Okay – what about the Olympic 100 metres? Surely it’s the most pure and beautiful of sporting events? The fastest man, or woman on the planet.

Incredible athleticism and intensity.

Less than a second for every 10 metres raced, and from a standing start.

“Elisha Lehmann” says The Doe. What?

“You want beautiful. Well, Elisha Lehmann, the world’s hottest footballer, the most beautiful footballer in the world. She earn $300,000 a year with Aston Villa, plus sponsorships and

endorsements. And a standard bearer for women in football.” Is that relevant, or even appropriate?

What about Sugar Ray Leonard – now there was a thing of primal sporting beauty. Without question one of the greatest boxers in history. Blinding hand speed, dazzling foot-work, toughness and an eye for the kill. Like a wild animal hunting down its prey. All the basics with a unique dash of flair… his was a truly beautiful game!

What about cricket’s cover drive – that’s a thing of exquisite beauty. The control, the poise and placement required to execute makes the cover drive a thing of great elegance and beauty.

Think Virat Kohli, arguably the best exponent. That sharp crack when the ball hits the sweet spot of the bat and races away through cover for four. Beautiful.

I sense I’m not getting traction here. Eyes are rolling and Doe’s muttering penalty shootouts – another weird anomaly of the game of football.

A millimetre!

“Lost by a millimetre!” she exclaims after the USA/Sweden epic. “A heartbreaker. The magic and the cruelty of football. The ref decides the penalty wasn’t a goal, and the VAR over rules.”

The champions exit – Abba’s ‘Dancing Queen’ is blaring across the stadium for the triumphant Swedes and the US players are sobbing all the way to the airport. A beautiful boil over. Mildly interesting I concede. Then would it be churlish to suggest just having the shootout. Forget the 90 minute palaver – the feigned injuries, time-wasting, post goal love-ins, bitching at the ref. Just turn penalty shootouts into a game in their own right. Quick and dirty. Imagine what Kerry Packer could have done with a World Series Soccer Shootout. Beautiful.

foot, football – o jogo bonito! The beautiful game.”

Having no barrier ‘unacceptable’

“Unacceptable.” These are the words of a school principal and rail union general secretary, who are learning the rail crossing – where a young girl died last week – was denied a safety upgrade in 2020 by Waka Kotahi.

The upgrade proposal included automated gates for pedestrians and cyclists for the rail crossing located near Golf Rd and Hewletts Rd.

Jorja-Ray Smith, aged 11, was struck by a freight train at the crossing while biking home from Mount Maunganui Intermediate on July 31, at 2.55pm.

The crossing was also identified as one of a number of railway crossings “posing a safety risk” across the country, according to Waka Kotahi.

Rail and Maritime Transport Union general secretary Todd Valster says the crossing upgrade, if progressed, could have “absolutely” prevented a fatality, and the crossing is “outdated”.

“Mount Maunganui is getting busier and busier, and the areas have a high frequency of trains. Just having the signage there is unacceptable.”

Asked if he was surprised by the safety upgrade being denied funding, he replied: “Unfortunately, no”.“I come across this stuff around rail safety for the public and workers almost every day. Nothing surprises me anymore. It’s a real tragedy for everyone involved. But the reality is that crossing could be made much safer.”

Mount Maunganui Intermediate principal Melissa Nelson says her school is situated in a busy place.

“Having no barrier for pedestrians across a train track which is located closely to a school is unacceptable.”

Melissa says her message to Waka Kotahi is the school

would “appreciate some rigour” and “priority” on ensuring another tragedy like this “doesn’t occur”.

Waka Kotahi regional manager for maintenance and operations Rob Campbell says the crossing was “one of about 65 safety improvement projects” which was unsuccessful in securing construction funding in the 21/24 National Land Transport Funding Programme.

The proposal cost between $1 million to $2 million.

Asked why the project wasn’t funded, Rob says there are “many parts” of the network that need improving.

“Waka Kotahi prioritises improvements to address as much as we can as fast as we can, within available resources and the funding constraints that we have.

“Funding goes to the projects which will mitigate the highest risk. We await the outcome of a police investigation and this will help inform what measures will be most effective in improving safety at this site.

“Waka Kotahi is having discussions with Kiwirail and Tauranga City Council about the potential for level crossing improvements at a range of sites including Hewletts Rd.”

On whether a life could have been saved if the proposal was funded, Rob says Waka Kotahi “can never know how many lives may have been saved” by completing projects that are funded. “We just wish we could prevent all deaths and serious injuries, because every loss of life is unacceptable. Waka Kotahi is committed to continuing to implement the NZ Road to Zero strategy that moving towards the target to reduce deaths and serious injuries on our roads, cycleways and footpaths by 40 per cent by 2030.”

SunLive approached TCC, which said they are “unable” to comment on Waka Kotahi’s scrapped upgrade proposal. Transport Minister David Parker’s office also redirected questions to Waka Kotahi, where the “funding decisions” are made.

Taylor Rice

Photo

Tauranga loses tireless ratepayers’ advocate

Family, friends and former city leaders are mourning the passing of former Tauranga city councillor Bill Faulkner, who died unexpectedly at home on Monday

August 7, aged 76.

William Ross Faulkner, known as Bill, was born on October 17, 1946, and was brought up by parents Ross and Thora

Faulkner on Matakana Island.

“This was where he learned to drive, in a wartime Jeep, and where his love of sailing and boating began,” says his sister Andi Faulkner.

His first job was at the Union Steamship Company in Devonport Rd.

He soon married Barbara, and moved to Brisbane for a year. Returning to Tauranga, sons Mark and Brendan were born. A remarkable individual, Bill’s achievements and lasting impact on Tauranga serve as a testament to his unwavering and tireless commitment

TODD MULLER

to the community. He became interested in Local Body Politics through ‘Fair Go for Ratepayers’ which he started in the early-1980s. This led to his lifelong commitment to ‘user pay’ policies and advocating for the ratepayers through his council work.

“‘Fair Go for Ratepayers’ was a very successful coup d’état because he brought a whole lot of likeminded councillors onto the council,” says long-time friend and fellow former city councillor Ross Harris.

“Council had lost its way and was not concentrating on its core values which Bill understood. Bill subsequently with some of his likeminded councillors became part of a self-styled ‘A Team’ which greatly influenced council to get back to its knitting.

“He rose to the ranks of being deputy chair of the committee that spent more than 80 per cent of council’s budget and along with the A Team was able to keep council on the straight and narrow.”

Former city councillor Larry Baldock says Bill has to be remembered as a hardworking and tireless advocate for ratepayers throughout his years serving the city.

“I worked with him when he initiated the Marine Precinct project a decade ago and there is no doubt that asset in the city would not be here today without Bill’s vision for it.”

City infrastructure

Former Tauranga City mayor Stuart Crosby says Bill had a strong understanding of the need to provide good infrastructure to a growing city, while trying to balance that with affordability of people to pay rates as well. “He had a passion for community, affordability and infrastructure. Bill was absolutely committed to the community in terms of his role on council and he had a strong focus on providing high quality infrastructure for the city,” says Stuart.

Ross says Bill was “a significant contributor to construction of the then Waikareao Expressway”.

Former mayor Greg Brownless says along with other councillors Bill was involved in buying the K Valley land, which permitted a bypass of Cameron Rd and Waihi Rd and the route alongside the Waikareao

estuary. He was right behind the purchase of Smith’s Farm and Parau Farms as valuable green space for future generations,” says Greg.

“Not in favour of growth for growth’s sake, Bill put current residents first and 20 years or more ago suggested putting ‘Sorry – Full’ signs at the top of the top of the Kaimai Range.”

Ross says Bill and councillor Gordon Taylor were instrumental in revising water processing and distribution throughout the city,” says Ross. “As a result Tauranga City had a world-best microfiltration plant which was the envy of most councils in NZ.

“One thing the city can be immensely grateful for is Bill led the charge on good quality drinking water,”

says Stuart. Former city councillor Mary Dillon says: “We were the first council to have a microfilter water supply and Bill did the donkey work and paid the price for it as he got kicked off council because of water meters.”

Former Tauranga City Mayor Greg Brownless says Bill loved getting his teeth into practical projects that were supported by the evidence. “As a result he was also heavily involved in planning for Tauranga’s sewerage system upgrades.”

Robust debates

Ross says Bill steadfastly stuck to his principles and in the face of opposition from within council and was largely successful in most of his endeavours. “He wasn’t there to make friends, he was there to do a job. And he not only did that job but he did it very well.”

Stuart says Bill had a strong focus on rates and affordability. “There were numerous debates around the council table on Bill’s view on that, and it was all around people’s ability to pay rates.

“One of his admirable traits was you could have a robust debate in the council chamber and leave that behind and go sailing with the man.”

Ross says on occasions Bill could be divisive “but he always stuck to his guns and his principles, and he always had the common good in his mind whether that was divisive or not”.

“Though we at times disagreed on some things Bill was someone you could get on with who you had to respect for his convictions and service to the city,” says Larry Baldock.

Former councillor John Robson says Tauranga is a poorer place without Bill. “He had courage of conviction and I think people don’t realise how important that is.”

Bill also wrote a no-holds-barred column for The

Weekend Sun from the paper’s inception in 2000 through until 2013. He regularly aired his opinions on council business, much to the dislike of some other elected members. His only rule was ‘don’t edit my columns’. “The other councillors hated it so they tried to shut me down,” said Bill.

Sun Media owner Claire Rogers says Bill’s columns were a huge part of The Weekend Sun. “Bill came in every week and debated with Brian [Rogers]. Julie, our receptionist, had a great relationship with him –having to decipher his handwriting every week to type up his columns.”

Ross says Bill’s “whole family were proud that he was out there on his white horse, flag waving, in an intelligent way through The Weekend Sun”.

Bill’s lifelong love was the sea. He was a competitive skipper to the end, with Tauranga Harbour winter series’ final race, which he’d been leading on-board his yacht ‘No Regrets’, due to take place this Sunday.

Crew member and friend Kent Jarman says will take Bill’s boat out Sunday, including Bill’s son Mark who sailed with him regularly. “You always knew where you stood with Bill. He spoke his mind. Sometimes that ruffled feathers but pretty much he was on the money.

“I found him a very caring person, a very fine human being and a good sailor.”

Family man

“Above all Bill was dedicated to his wife Barbara and family,” says Greg. “He spoke frequently of them.”

Bill was incredibly proud of his sons Mark and Brendan. “He was fantastic grandfather, just lovely with his grandchildren,” says Mary. “Bill was very much a family man, and was very supportive of his grandchildren and incredibly proud of their success,” says Ross. Bill is survived by his wife, two sons, and four grandchildren.

Above: Wayne Spear, BIll Faulkner at helm, and Kent Jarman on board ‘No Regrets’. Right: Bill in 2013 at The Weekend Sun office.

Rosalie Liddle Crawford

Tauranga residents are invited to talk turkey with the council’s four Commissioners about the city’s big issues at a series of five events being hosted across town during August and September.

‘Let’s talk: A conversation with Commissioners’, hosted by Scott Campbell, will take place in Ōtūmoetai on August 21; Mount Maunganui on August 22; Welcome Bay on August 28; Pāpāmoa on August 29; and at Greerton on September 4.

Put on by Tauranga City Council, the explanation is that Tauranga the fastest-growing city in New Zealand, this growth come challenges.

As such, council invites to join a conversation with the Commissioners, to talk about the big issues that matter to them and their aspirations for Tauranga.

Each of the five events is on from 6pm-7.30pm with tea and coffee available at respective locations around the city. For further details, go to: www.tauranga.govt.nz/ commissioners

Basketballs, bibs and babies!

When they’re not delicately wiping away baby dribble, they’re likely to be dribbling a basketball down the court.

The Bay’s women’s representative squad, Tauranga Coasters, will compete in the D-League tournament in Auckland August 16-19 with their kids cheering on the sidelines. “It’s been a big push getting women back into the sport so we’re proud to get such a competitive team up,” says Tauranga Basketball director of development Rachel Gwerder.

“The culture is changing to where having children isn’t a barrier.”

Three women on the team are mums. May Tai is breastfeeding two of her three children, eight monthold Zharaiah and 18 month-old Zhavia, between practices and games. “It’s hard. Sometimes I’m breastfeeding both, holding one in each arm. But then I have little Zhavia doing stretches beside me or trying to bounce the ball and I feel as though it does make me a better mum. I hope I’m a good role model for them.” Away from the sport for 12 years, May says it’s very different returning as a mum.“The mind’s there but the body’s not quite in the same place yet. If I

hear one of my kids crying, my attention goes straight there. I need to bring my focus back to the game.”

Tainakore Tapiata, mum to six-month-old Maiāria, has returned to basketball after a five-year break.

“I was really scared to come back just because of the fitness. I wasn’t worried about baby because I’ve got such a big whanau to help with her, but I was worried about getting back on the court because I had been such a fast player. It’s been great, though.”

Laura Kuka jumped back into basketball two years ago when son Lua was just a few weeks old.

“As soon as I could run, I was straight back into scrimmages. It was hard but I had support from my parents and it took my mind off motherhood for just a short amount of time. I really enjoy it.”

Tauranga City Basketball Association has invested heavily in the women’s side of the game this year.

“The development league has created space for women to compete,” says coach Chelseah Savage.

“It’s a competitive league. It’s tough.”

Chelseah admires players juggling busy familes with training. “I’m so proud of our mothers in the team who commit to this... I take my hat off to the women.

“They get full credit.”

Laura Kuka with 2-year-old Lua Kuka, Tainakore Tapiata holding 6-month-old Maiāria Tapiata and May Tai with 18-month-old Zhavia Collier. Photo John Borren.

Debbie Griffiths

Connecting amputees

He lost his leg three years ago, now Darren Ross is wanting other amputees to know that there’s support in our community.

The Amputee Society of Waikato and Bay of Plenty Districts is a non-profit organisation seeking to promote the welfare of amputees through advocacy, peer support and social events.

Darren, who is now vice president, joined the society in 2020 after he had an amputation. “I lost my leg through an infection I got in my body,” says Darren. “When you go into hospital and have a leg cut off or have an amputation there’s no support really there for you…you’re just let back out into the world, and then people are like: ‘Where do I start? What can I do? Is there support out there for me because I’m feeling really emotional about this?’

“People that have just had amputations or amputees – they’re a bit funny about interacting with other people again for a bit. It’s just like you go through a shutdown period. I did as well, but we’re trying to get more people in our society again, and more awareness for amputees as well because there’s not much awareness out there.”

Darren says amputees are not often thought of in the community. For example, Darren shares a story of when he parked in a mobility space at Fraser Cove

Shopping Centre. “This guy came up to me and he goes: ‘You can’t park there’ and I said: ‘I’ve got a disabled sticker’ and he said: ‘What’s disabled about you?’ So I had to get out of the car and show him I have no leg – and it happens more often than you actually think.”

Experiences such as this cause a lot of amputees to get to a point where they don’t want to go out, says Darren. Yet, the local Amputee Society wants to change this. “We’re trying to get people to come out more, to realise that life still goes on and that just because you’ve lost a limb doesn’t mean your life’s finished. It just means it starts another journey.

“We try to do fun events…we’ve got a 4X4 trip coming up in Taupō, we’ve got golfing days, bike days, all sorts of stuff!”

The Amputee Society of Waikato and Bay of Plenty Districts also partners with Good Neighbour to support amputees by way of meals.

“Good Neighbour are the most wonderful and caring people. Every fortnight we go down and pick up a pile of food in the truck and the girls bag it all up and then it gets picked up or delivered to people that are struggling.”

To get connected with our local amputee society, visit: www.facebook.com/ampswbop

Have your say on emergency management group plan

Western Bay of Plenty residents have until August 13 to submit their thoughts on the Bay of Plenty Civil Defence Emergency Management Group Plan.

According to Western Bay of Plenty District Council, the Group Plan is a strategic document about how the Bay of Plenty CDEM Group works with the community before, during and after emergencies.

“It includes our vision and future direction for Civil Defence and Emergency Management across the region.”

In this plan, BOP CDEM says you won’t find details about how they will respond to individual hazards such as floods, earthquakes and tsunami across different parts of the region.

“Emergency management and council teams have separate operational plans for different elements of emergency risk reduction,

readiness, response and recovery. Those plans are always being revised and fine-tuned, but the Group Plan is designed to chart our strategic course for the next five years.

“The Group Plan is a document that sets out how the Bay of Plenty CDEM Group works together with the community to prepare for

and respond to disasters in the Bay of Plenty. The plan includes the vision and direction on what we want Civil Defence and Emergency Management to look like in the BOP.”

A copy of the draft Group Plan 2023-2028 can be found under the ‘document library’ tab at: www.participate.boprc. govt.nz

Amputee Society of Waikato & Bay of Plenty District’s vice president Darren Ross and Good Neighbour’s Angela Rogers.

Photo: John Borren.

Georgia Minkhorst

HELLO BETHLEHEM

Te Puke residents will go the polls for one seat on the Te Puke Community Board following the resignation of Anish Paudel.

Anish, who is stepping down from the role effective immediately, triggers a Western Bay of Plenty District Council by-election to fill the vacant seat.

A by-election must be held to fill the vacant seat because it is more than 12 months before the next local body election in 2025.

Anish received 523 votes in the October 2022 Local Body Elections, alongside Dale Snell with 959, Kassie Ellis’ 940 and Karen Summerhays’ 937.

Electoral officer Dale Ofsoske has confirmed the by-election process began on Thursday, August 10, with nomination papers available to pick up and the electoral roll available for inspection.

Resignation triggers Te Puke by-election

To be eligible to stand for election, a candidate must be enrolled as a Parliamentary elector; and a New Zealand citizen; and nominated by two electors of the Te Puke Community Board area. If more than one nomination is received when nominations close at midday on Thursday, September 7, then a postal ballot will be held for the electors of the Te Puke Community Board area. There are about 7400 eligible voters in the area.

Voting would run from Thursday, October 12 to midday Friday, November 3.

Nomination papers are available from: Te Puke Library and Service Centre, 130 Jellicoe St; Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s Main Office, Barkes Corner, 1484 Cameron Rd, Greerton; at: www.westernbay.govt.nz or phone: 0800 922 822.

Anish Paudel has resigned from his seat on the Te Puke Community Board. Photo: supplied.

Donate books you’ve looked at!

Katikati’s community is being called on to donate their clean, saleable books to the Monster Book Sale, which is set to happen September 16-17.

The sale, which is run by Katikati Catholic community, has books, jigsaws, indoor games, CDs and DVDs to purchase at great prices at

Katikati Memorial Hall from 8am5pm September 16, and 8am-2pm on September 17.

Donations of books, jigsaws, indoor games, CDs and DVDs can be dropped off at the front entrance of the Catholic Church, 89 Beach Rd, Katikati. For more information, call Pauline van Rijen on: 07 549 2449.

Tauranga mum goes to US for Prune Belly Syndrome Convention

A Tauranga mother is the first from New Zealand to attend a gathering in the United States of specialists, parents and survivors of a rare condition that affects her own son.

Heather Kalisch’s 20-month-old son, James, has Prune Belly Syndrome. It gets its name from the wrinkled stomach that’s typical of babies born without abdominal muscles. The cause is still unknown but it’s common for those with PBS to have kidney or urinary tract problems.

“There are literally just a handful of people in New Zealand with PBS that I know of,” says Heather.

Thanks to a grant from the Lottery Minister’s Discretionary Fund, she was one of about 100 attendees at the Prune Belly Syndrome Convention in Columbus, Ohio, from July 19-22.

“It paid for my flights and accommodation.

“I couldn’t have done it without that grant. I’m so appreciative.”

Doctors first caught an abnormality at Heather’s 13-week pregnancy scan in 2021. They noticed an enlarged bladder that meant her baby’s urine was getting blocked.

“It was a difficult whirlwind of a pregnancy having to go back and forth to Auckland during the 2021 lockdown. We spent the whole time not knowing whether James was going to live or die.”

When he was born, James was diagnosed with Prune Belly Syndrome. “Statistics from medical research estimate that just one in 50,000 babies are born with this condition,” says Heather. “Most doctors in New Zealand have never seen a case.

“I learned so much so fast and I’m still learning so much. I wish I didn’t have to, but I do.”

Looking for answers

With no support network in New Zealand, Heather looked to the US for answers.

“There’s a doctor in Columbus who’s researching whether there’s a genetic cause of PBS. She’s the only one in America and one of only a few around the world who would be considered experts, so I wanted to hear her speak.”

Heather also attended lectures by medical experts from urologists and nephrologists to physiotherapists. But it wasn’t just the doctors who passed on valuable advice. “For the first time ever,

I met someone else with Prune Belly Syndrome. “I can’t even describe how special that was. “That, and meeting other families on a similar journey to ours, was priceless.”

Renewed hope

For Heather, hearing about breakthrough surgical methods such as muscle transposition has given her renewed hope for James’ future.

“It’s not the fault of our doctors here; it’s simply a rare condition that most have never seen. There’s no reason James can’t have the best medical care here. Going to the states and finding out what they’re doing for people with Prune Belly Syndrome means I’ve returned to New Zealand armed with more tools and awareness to fight for what James needs.” Debbie Griffiths

AIMS Games prep guide for local businesses

With the largest Zespri AIMS Games ever set for September 2-8, the countdown is on for more than 11,700 competitors heading to Tauranga in a month’s time. To help the Western Bay of

Plenty’s visitor sector businesses plan for the estimated 25,000 people who’ll participate in this year’s tournament, Tourism Bay of Plenty has created a handy guide for them. ‘Making the Most

of Major Events Zespri AIMS Games’ give advice and tips to businesses, and lists at the venues and sporting codes in the Zespri Aims Game for 2023. For a copy, visit the TBOP website.

James Kalisch, who suffers from Prune Belly Syndrome, with his mother Heather Kalisch.

Photo: Debbie Griffiths.

Young Tauranga musos make finals in iconic comp

Three young Tauranga musicians carving a name for themselves on the Bay of Plenty music scene have made the finals of the 2023 Smokefreerockquest competition.

Unit 51, a three-piece band from Tauranga Boys’ College, are among 10 acts from around the Aotearoa who will compete for the national title next month.

“I feel really excited to show people our music and perform,” says 18-year-old drummer Aaron McDaniel. “It doesn’t feel like a competition, for us it’s just a lot of fun.”

Aaron, along with 16-year-old

bass player Otto Blake-Palmer and 16-year-old Daniel Leabourn on vocals and guitar, have been performing together for around a year-and-a-half.

“We rehearse twice-a-week, if possible,” says Otto.

“Maybe one lunchtime a week and after-school. Then we have gigs most weekends.”

As finalists, Unit 51 will receive mentoring from industry professionals and will have a chance to record a song in a professional studio. They describe their originals as a unique mix of music genres.

“We’re rock‘n’roll, funk rock with a bit of reggae thrown in,” says Daniel. “When we’re coming up with a new song, one

of us will bring an idea and the others will add to it or just say it’s bad. It’s a team effort.”

Bay of Plenty has historically done well in Smokefreerockquest including national winners Georgia Lines in 2014 and Ben Mollison and Joes Van in 2015.

“Bay of Plenty really does stand out as a strong region for budding young musicians,” says event manager Georgia Parker.

The Smokefreerockquest National Final is on Saturday, September 16, at Q Theatre in Auckland.

“It’s a tough competition,” says Daniel. “It would be really great if our community could come and support us. That would mean so much.”

Debbie Griffiths

Unit 51 is Otto Blake-Palmer, Aaron McDaniel, and Daniel Leabourn. Photos: supplied.

More than a feeling!

Bay of Plenty retirement

village residents who are preparing for a concert next month have found their mood improving alongside their singing.

Six choirs will put on two concerts at Bayswater Metlifecare Retirement Village on August 12-13; the culmination of a project to get retirees more socially active.

“We realised after Covid-19 that a lot of people were quite depressed, so we needed a way to keep the aging population occupied,” says event organiser Helena van der Merwe.

“When you sing, you can’t think about anything negative.”

Singing helps

Omokoroa Country Estate formed a choir three years ago and found it has helped people to settle into the retirement

living environment and even to overcome depression and deal with grief.

“The value of the interaction between the elderly during rehearsals and the positive health effects that it has on the body is widely acknowledged and published,” says Helena.

“We’ve seen amazing improvements in people who had sunk into acute depression after experiencing loss in their lives.

“They have a new focus.”

At the Music Festival, 120 singers will perform a range of songs from classics like ‘Sweet Caroline’ to nostalgic tunes like ‘In The Mood’. A ukulele band and 99-year-old Coreen Gray, QSM, who sings and plays piano are also in the line-up.

“I can tell you the average age is 83,” says Helena.

“I’m in awe of our participants.

“They have age-related mobility issues; some are in wheelchairs, some are sight impaired and

Artists wanted to transform cabinets

Bay of Plenty creatives have until the end of August to apply to be part of a paid project to transform the city’s civic spaces.

Creative Bay of Plenty has opened submissions for talented artists and visual communicators to participate in this paid opportunity to contribute to the beautification of our region by painting the telecommunications cabinets scattered throughout the area. There 10 cabinets, previously

overlooked and nondescript, which will serve as canvases for your artistic expression across Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty. This year’s theme is Diversity of Aotearoa New Zealand. Designs must fit this theme before they are considered. Register to be considered for Chorus Cabinet Art Project 2023 at: creativebop. org.nz/projects/chorus-cabinet-artproject-2023 by August 31, 2023.

almost all wear hearing aids.

“There are so many physical challenges and yet they sing like angels.”

First time

The individual choirs practice weekly, and this will be the first time they’ve come together for a concert that will culminate with a mass choir performance.

“We’re hoping it will become an annual performance,” says Helena. “Everyone is working so hard. It will be a really beautiful event.”

All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to Waipuna Hospice and StarJam.

The Bay of Plenty Villages 2023 Music Festival is at Bayswater Metlifecare Retirement Village, 60 Maranui St, Mount Maunganui, from 2pm on Saturday, August 12, and Sunday, August 13. Tickets cost $10 each and can be purchased by emailing: samantham@metlifecare.co.nz

and welcoming community at The Bayview.

a

Just minutes from the city, overlooking the beautiful harbour and The Mount, The Bayview is an idyllic place to call home. There’s always something to look forward to at The Bayview, whether it’s relaxing in the library with a puzzle or joining neighbours for a drink during happy hour. Our spacious

apartments will feel like a private oasis, as you entertain friends and family.

Event organiser Helena van der Merwe, in the middle, amongst some of her festival choir singers.

Photo: John Borren.

Debbie Griffiths

lifestyle block owners

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 Aug, 2-6pm, The Historic Village, 17th Avenue West, Tauranga

Whakatāne: Saturday 2 Sep, 10-11.30am, ONLINE

Ōhiwa Harbour: Thursday 7 Sep, 12-1.30pm, ONLINE

Rangitāiki: Friday 8 Sep, 2-5pm, Galatea Hall, Mangamate Road, Galatea

Waihī: Tuesday 12 Sep, 2-6pm, location TBC.

For ONLINE events please register your interest at boprc.govt.nz/freshwater-events

For a full list of events or to feedback online head to 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

Travel the Silk Road through melody

Experience the stunning sounds of Chinese music at the ‘Silk Road Echo –Global Tour Concert’ for its New Zealand premiere here in Tauranga!

The Silk Road Echo International Tour has journeyed across France and Italy to the UK and has now weaved its way to Aotearoa – and is ready to enchant our community with their talent.

On Saturday, August 12, the orchestra will provide a free show at the Performance Art Centre at Bethlehem College. NZ China Friendship Society Tauranga president Tina Zhang is delighted to see the orchestra come to the Bay of Plenty.

Reincarnation

“[The concert] is a reincarnation of youthful innocence and a showcase of our diverse cultural heritage. The concert exhibits novel creativity, impeccable choreography, and breath-taking stage visuals, making it a perfect blend of contemporary relevance, cultural nuance, and

Superintendent Steve Greally, who is director of the National Road Policing Centre. “Trains can come at any time and from either direction.

“Recent unfortunate events across the country act as a timely reminder for road users and pedestrians to take further care at rail crossings.”

Entertainment figure found guilty An entertainment industry figure battling almost a decade’s worth of sex crime charges has been found guilty of attempted sexual violation and indecent assault – but cleared of a further 23 charges.

Rail safety calls

Take another moment to look for trains at railway tracks and level crossings is a reminder from Police as part of Rail Safety Week. The annual awareness event runs from August 7-13, and comes after Tauranga 11-year-old Jorja-Ray Smith was fatally hit by a train on Hewletts Rd, Mount Manganui, early this month. “It might sound like a simple request, but we can’t afford to become complacent,” says

Despite the two guilty verdicts, and Justice Layne Harvey convicting the man of the charges, he still cannot be named as defence lawyer Ron Mansfield KC requested continued name suppression.

The jury returned their unanimous verdicts at the end of a 12-week trial – originally scheduled for six weeks.

He was found not guilty of a raft of charges including indecent assaults, sexual violation by unlawful sexual connection, rape, perverting the course of justice, supplying MDMA and methamphetamine, burglary

international style.”

Saturday’s concert will feature the Silk Road Echo Little Stars Art Troupe, the Five-Colour String Orchestra, and the Beijing Instrumental Association Youth Chamber Orchestra. Showcasing traditional Chinese Music and Chinese Folk songs, audiences will experience the unique sounds of Chinese instruments such as guzheng, erhu, and yang qin. Soprano singer and stage director Luxuan Liu and baritone singer Zhou Nan will elevate the music with their powerful melodies.

Passion

“Luxuan Liu’s passion for storytelling through music shines through as she weaves together melodies that evoke the warmth of family bonds and the longing for the familiar landscapes of one's homeland,” says Tina.

Luxuan says: “The Silk Road

and attempted sexual violation. In total he faced 25 allegations from nine complainants.

Funding injection

The latest round of the Tauranga Western Bay Community Event Fund has seen 18 applications receive a combined $223,000.

The fund aims to provide a coordinated approach to supporting community events in the region. Offering a streamlined process for applicants to one centralised fund, also allowing access to new and additional funding not previously available to the community.

The fund has up to six funding rounds each year, and $223,000 of the $900,000 annual funding pool for 2023/2024 was allocated in round one.

The 26 events granted funding are spread throughout 2023, with all community-driven events that aim to enrich the Tauranga and Western BOP communities.

Cannabis & meth cheaper

Methamphetamine and cannabis are becoming cheaper and there’s a sharp increase in cannabis availability, a survey of drug trends in New Zealand shows.

Massey University SHORE and Whāriki Research Centre’s online

Melodies concert provides a window into the beauty, depth, and significance of Chinese culture, enriching the cultural exchange between China and NZ and fostering mutual understanding and appreciation between the two nations”.

“New Zealand audience's openness to different cultures and their passion for music will create a harmonious and unforgettable experience!” The free concert is 6pm-8pm at Bethlehem College on Saturday, August 12. To RSVP. email: tauranga@nzcfs.com

survey was completed by more than 13,000 people with knowledge of drug use and markets, between August 2022 and February 2023.

Drugs research team leader associate professor Chris Wilkins says the sharp rise in reported cannabis availability might reflect the introduction of the Medicinal Cannabis Scheme in 2020, a shift away from strong crackdowns on cannabis possession and small-scale cultivation, plus a change in public attitudes to cannabis following the recent referendum and debate.

Pāpāmoa East project

Construction of a new interchange over the Tauranga Eastern Link continues this month and will see Pāpāmoa East connected to the motorway and enable further development of the area.

While earthworks continue to build the necessary height on the Bell Rd side of the TEL, the second phase of the project, construction of an extension to Te Okuroa Drive and a new intersection with future The Sands Avenue, is also progressing.

This phase includes: The Te Okuroa and The Sands Avenue signalised intersection, Te Okuroa Drive four lane continuation (east) to the new intersection and shared bi-directional cycleway and footpaths.

Georgia Minkhorst

The Silk Road Echo - Global Tour Concert will grace our community with wondrous Chinese music on August 12. Photos: supplied.

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Try your hand at silent film No regrets for outgoing MP

The annual search is on for the best young Kiwi filmmakers, with submissions open for the 2023 International Youth Silent Film Festival New Zealand Nationals. There’re many ways to make films these days, multiple platforms to upload them to, and countless video rabbit holes to go down. What makes the IYSFF NZ competition unique? Not only do young filmmakers have the chance to see their films on the big screen in NZ and the United States, they can win awards and cash prizes

too. This year there’s prizes for the top three placed films plus seven ‘Best Of’ category awards. In addition, the top two Kiwi films will represent NZ at the annual IYSFF Global Awards in Portland, Oregon, USA, in 2024.

This global competition tasks filmmakers to create a threeminute silent film set to one of 10 musical scores composed specifically for the festival.

Submissions close at 11.59pm September 1.

Visit: www.makesilentfilm.com

He’s ditched the suit and tie – and is all smiles reflecting on his nine-year political career.

Todd Muller has been the Bay of Plenty MP since 2014 – and is calling it quits at the 2023 General Election after feeling as though he “doesn’t have enough l eft in the tank”.

With years of experience doorknocking and navigating the “yappy dogs” belonging to seemingly “every home” in Pāpāmoa, Muller says he’s “absolutely loved” getting to know his electorate and representing them in Parliament.

Across the country, Muller is

known as the shortest-serving leader of any political party represented in Parliament, after resigning as the National Party leader 53 days after taking up the reigns in 2020.

Great privilege

Despite this, he says there are “no regrets” in his roller-coaster career, and views his famously short time as the National Party leader as a highlight.

“It was a great privilege to be the leader of the National Party. You know, it will always be defined by the fact I wasn’t there very long, and the unfortunate events I had to walk through afterwards, but it’s a highlight.”

Outside of his short stint as the

party leader and battle with his mental health, Muller says there are no bad memories during his time in Parliament.

“When I look back over those nine years, with the exception of obviously having a pretty public breakdown, I absolutely loved it.”

Highlights

Muller says major highlights of his political career include becoming chairman of Foreign Affairs and Trade, going to America to see Trump, Obama and Clinton in person, and working to get the Zero Carbon Bill up with Climate

Funding Policy

We have a range of funding available to support community groups and we want to make sure that funding support is given in the right way.

We have drafted a revised Community Funding Policy and want to know what you think about the proposed changes which will guide a more consistent approach to funding and give us greater oversight of our funding streams.

For more information and to take the survey visit letstalk.tauranga.govt.nz/cfpr Consultation closes 5pm Sunday, 13 August 2023.

Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller is stepping down at the 2023 election.

Photo: John Borren.

Change Minister James Shaw.

As part of the Zero Carbon Bill, Muller and Shaw set up an independent commission to advise successive governments on how to best go about the journey of decarbonisation.

“Bipartisanship is relatively rare in New Zealand politics.

“To have bipartisanship on an issue as important as climate change, I think, it was really critical and is still critical.

James Shaw

“I’m really proud of being able to pull that together with James Shaw. I credit it to him. He was the [Minister of Climate Change] and opened his office and said: ‘Let’s do this together’ and that’s pretty special to be able to do.”

When asked who the best politicians to work with, Muller says Shaw comes to mind, despite describing his party’s policies as “largely mad”.

On who were the worst politicians to work with, Muller simply says “they know who they are”.

Looking at the future of the Bay of Plenty and the wider country, Muller says New Zealand’s capacity to deal with internal challenges “worries” him.

“I do feel Covid-19 knocked the stuffing out of us, both as a community and country in general.

“I worry it is going to take a fair amount of turnaround to get us back where we need to be. There are some big questions for New Zealand around how we want to grow as a country, where we want to be in terms of population, and how we are going to fund things.

“For better or for worse, governments have decided to borrow money.

“Now we have to decide how to grow out of it. Should we be more aggressive with immigration? How to we manage that? How do we speed up the building of things?

“It’s one thing to commit to infrastructure building, which is clearly what has happened, but we seem to have lost the ability as a country to build quickly and

Tell Coastcare what you think!

Bay of Plenty communities are being asked to have their say about what matters most to them about their coast – and help guide the work of a programme dedicated to protecting and enhancing our coastal environment.

Coast Care’s Beach User Survey is currently open, with every submission helping to steer the future of the programme. All submitters will also go in the draw to win a deluxe beach picnic hamper worth $150 for having their say.

groups, corporates, and everyday good sorts to keep our coastal sand dunes in good order, has been in operation since 1994.

“Over the years our team has witnessed firsthand the power of community driven coastal restoration.

“From volunteer planting days to school groups learning about the importance of sand dunes, the programme is as much about practical application as it is education.”

efficiently. We seem lost in this morass of process and grumpiness.

“That’s going to take more than a couple years of good governing to turn around.”

Home

On returning home to his family, Muller says it has been “fantastic” to be back home with his wife Michelle and kids Bradley, Amelia and Amy – who are finding it “happily strange” to have him back. As for his next steps, Muller says he’s planning on picking up “a mix of things” both locally and nationally in a portfolio as opposed to one job, but is not prepared to say what they are just yet.

**With Tauranga-based Labour List MP Angie-Warren Clarke moving north to Whangarei to contest a seat there in the upcoming General Election, voters in the Bay of Plenty electorate now have a group of fresh faces to vote for on October 14.

Learn more about the 2023 General Election at: vote.nz

Coast Care regional coordinator Russell Knutson says the programme, which works with schools, community

The survey is open until Monday, September 8, at: www.participate.boprc.govt.nz

For more information, visit: boprc.govt.nz/coast-care

Taylor Rice

They can’t remember the last time one was held, and that’s reason enough to put one on!

On Saturday, August 19, Mount Maunganui RSA will hold a Winter Ball for a night of great food, music and dancing. Mount Maunganui RSA entertainment committee member

Noeleen Bell guesses the last ball Mount RSA had was around 50 years ago. “This will be first time in many, many years. No one can remember the last ball – it’s that long ago!”

To literally get the ball rolling after all this time, Noeleen says it’s going

to be a “proper ball”. “We’re having a supper and we’ve got a live band from Auckland!” Roger Skinner and The Motivation will get Mount RSA grooving, performing rock‘n’roll hits from the 1950s-1990s.

Dance winter away at the RSA Familiarising with the forefathers

A glass of champagne will be provided on arrival and ball guests will be provided with a delicious supper too. Held at Mount RSA, the ball will run from 7.30pm-11pm on Saturday, August 19. Bookings are essential. To reserve your ticket, email: bellnoeleen9@gmail.com. Tickets cost $100 per couple (no singles sold).

It’s a pocket handkerchief patch of grass, right at the end of an inner city cul-de-sac. Underwhelming.

A nightingale might have famously and romantically sang in Berkley Square, but only seagulls squawk and caw over Tunks Reserve. Generations of Tauranga folk have wandered over it, around it, sat on it, and given it little thought. No! Tunks Reserve hasn’t figured large on the cityscape. “I don’t know who Tunks is,” admits one passerby who has lived and worked nearby for a few years. At a stretch she could have lobbed a crust for the seagulls onto the reserve from her kitchen window. “Should I know? I am curious now.”

She’s not alone. No-one The Weekend Sun spoke to knew Tunks or Tunks Reserve. Just lots of shrugging and vacant stares.

Knowledge gap

So we took this gap in our local knowledge to the Heritage and Research team at Tauranga City Library. “Tunks was a former Mayor,” the researcher offered up immediately. Impressive. “I think he was Mayor. Now, where did I read that?” I don’t know, but we are all learning something together.

Tunks – Alfred Francis Daly Tunks, aka ‘Alf’ or ‘Alfie’ – Mayor of Tauranga between 1933 and 1935, the first Tauranga-born Mayor, a one-term Mayor and two-term councillor.

We know he was gritty – he contested the mayoralty four times before he finally got his hands on those chains. Obviously Alfred Francis Daly Tunks didn’t accept rejection. And he was also renowned for his “sterling qualities as a Christian gentleman”. So a fine, upstanding chap.

Tauranga Borough Councillors and staff in 1914. ‘Alf’ is front left with the dog. Photo: Tauranga City Libraries.

Holder of the Mayoral chains. One-term Mayor A.F.D – Alf or Alfie – Tunks. Photo: Tauranga City Libraries.

He was industrious during his 66 years – sheep farmer, stock auctioneer, Public Trust agent before WWI service in Belgium, France and Egypt as a captain with the Tauranga Mounted Rifles. He was even presented to King George V at Buckingham Palace.

Memorialised

And for that, and his service to the citizenry, the ‘burgomaster’ was memorialised with his own patch of grass, albeit a postage stamp patch, in the cul-de-sac right at the top of Elizabeth St, just off Devonport Rd.

The area is a war zone at the moment –machines, metal barricades, road cones, a ‘NO ENTRANCE’ sign. But that’s a good sign, a sign of progress because when all that’s pealed back one day soon, the streetscape on Elizabeth St East, and Tunks Reserve, will have had a classy makeover. It’ll be a little oasis at the top of town – grass, seats, trees, plantings and sweeping views of Te Awanui Tauranga Harbour from high above the rail bridge. Also new steps linking Elizabeth St to The Strand Extension below.

“We’re committed to acknowledging the rich history of the area,” says Tauranga City Council’s Gareth Wallis, the man driving the project. “It has made our city what it is today.”

And all the time the spirit of A.F.D Tunks – Alf or Alfie – will be swirling. And those of his Mum and Dad. After all, this is their patch too.

Times were formal in 1916, the year Mum died – her obituary celebrated a Mrs E.F Tunks. But her name was Elizabeth, and this “well educated, cultured lady of the old school” would graciously give her name to Elizabeth St in our city. The obit also suggests she was generous, never had an unkind word and enjoyed a chuckle. I will reflect respectfully on Mrs E.F Tunks when next stuck

at the Devonport Rd lights. She’d probably get a ‘chuckle’ out of the bizarre, newfangled Barnes Dance traffic lights and the department store and apartments soaring on her strip.

In the centennial document ‘Gazetting of Tauranga as a Borough’ there’s also mention of Tunks Point at the eastern end of First Ave. It’s probably a nod to a “gallant officer” Captain Thomas Tunks – husband of Elizabeth and father of A.F.D Tunks, the former Mayor.

Tunks senior Tunks Senior was an Imperial Army officer who joined the 68th Durham Light Infantry at just 16 and served in Crimea. The career soldier couldn’t put his sabre or musket down. And, after arriving in New Zealand in 1861, served with the 1st Waikato Militia during the ‘native war’. On several occasions Captain Tunks served as chairman of the Town Board and the Borough Council. But in September 1886 he was suddenly “seized by a spasm of pain in his chest, causing him great agony until he became unconscious and died in his bed” early one morning. Uptown Tauranga had apparently lost “a good man and true”. His son had a more ignominious end, which was also publicly recorded in great detail. Alfred Frances Daly Tunk was cycling into town from his Fraser St home one day when he apparently “found the exertion too much”. He collapsed and died on the street.

And there’s a thought, a vague thought, that Tunks Reserve may have been named for Dad, Captain Thomas Tunks of the 68th Regiment. After all he was lauded as “a favourite with all, a man of strict integrity”. Give us something to think about as we’re hooking into a kebab or Korean fried chicken for lunch on Tunks Reserve in a few weeks.

Major changes at Te Maunga interchange

In

Temporarily, all northbound traffic travelling on SH2 Tauranga Eastern Link from Pāpāmoa will use the newly signalised interchange.

The detour on Truman Lane will be removed.

You can pick up one of our FREE publications from any of these places

Papamoa Library

Countdown Bureta, Otumoetai

Four Square Cherrywood, Otumoetai

Brookfield Food Mart, 75 Bellevue Rd

Matua Dairy, 97 Levers Rd, Matua

Patrick’s Pies, 19 Bethlehem Rd, Bethlehem

Four Square Bethlehem, 233A SH2, Bethlehem

Décor Gardenworld, 165 Moffat Rd, Bethlehem

For people travelling from SH29A Maungatapu towards Bayfair, the left-turning slip lane from the top of the interchange will be controlled by traffic lights.

Take extra care when travelling through the area while you get used to the new layout, especially during peak times.

FreshChoice Papamoa, 20 Coast Boulevard, Papamoa Papamoa Plaza

FreshChoice Omokoroa, 160 Omokoroa Rd, Omokoroa

Katikati Information Centre, 36 Main Road, Katikati

The vision for Tunks Reserve – connect with Awanui Tauranga Harbour and fondly remember ‘Alf’.

Photo: Tauranga City Council.

Hunter Wells

Empowering women strand by strand!

A Tauranga hair coach is hoping to collaborate with a local charity to ‘pay it forward’ in the community.

Chrissy Heathorn has worked with Dressed For Success in Auckland to give free coaching sessions to women – now she wants to find a similar partnership here in the Bay of Plenty.

“Not knowing what to do with your hair is like going out with a mismatched outfit. It can be disheartening,” says Chrissy.

Tips and tricks

“I take the time to discuss issues with the hair and my ladies walk out with tips and tricks that they feel confident doing at home.”

Chrissy is seeking an organisation that’s actively engaged in supporting women who need help to feel confident.

“I want to offer the ‘Beautiful You’

hair experience, but I need to find women it would most benefit,” says Chrissy. “They’d get to work oneon-one with me in an empty salon to figure out solutions to their hair issues or offer a new perspective.”

Chrissy describes hair as ‘the crown you wear every day’ and believes every woman deserves to be happy with theirs.

“Some come to me after major trauma or illness and don’t recognise the hair they have to deal with anymore. It has a huge effect on them,” says Chrissy.

“What I offer is more than a haircut or colour; it’s a holistic experience.”

Chrissy says the fast-paced environment of modern hair salons often fails to cater to women grappling with hair-related difficulties that are affecting their self-esteem.

“For most people it works, but it doesn’t allow for the hairdresser’s

Tauranga hair coach Chrissy Heathorn wants to help charity with her skill.

Photo: John Borren.

expertise to shine. “Some clients simply need to spend time talking about what’s best for their face shape, or they may have thinning hair, be worried about going grey gracefully, hair loss or they may have frizzy or fine hair. I send them home with expert care and styling techniques.”

A need

It’s not just practical knowledge, though. For Chrissy, it’s more the feeling that her clients leave with that gives the most satisfaction.

“The ultimate goal isn’t just a pretty new ‘do’; it’s to have them feeling pampered and nurtured and walking out feeling confident and happy. After a lifetime in the industry, I can see there’s a need for this kind of service.”

To collaborate with Chrissy, call her on: 021 039 3450.

Check carefully before you cross

With new cycleways taking shape across the region, Tauranga City Council is encouraging pedestrians to ‘check before you cross’ these new cycle lanes to avoid disaster.

Cyclists have right of way on these cycleways, and pedestrians are reminded to give way to people on bikes using the bike lanes.

Road users are also being asked to take extra care and be aware of one another as everyone adjusts to the new road layout.

“If you’re driving on Cameron Rd, and you’re turning into or

out of a side-road always check before turning, as you must give way to anyone using the two-way cycleway,” says Tauranga City Council director of transport Brendan Bisley.

“Our habit, as drivers, is to always check right, where traffic is usually coming from. But we also need to ensure we always check left, especially with multiple modes of transport including ebikes and scooters which can move quicker than traditional bikes.

“They all have the right of way.”

Debbie Griffiths

This lovely girl Bobbley!

Bobbley is a smoochy, chatty girl who just loves lots of attention. Bobbley has a head-tilt so can struggle a little with balance and possibly hearing. But this lovely girl doesn’t let that hold her back and gets around confidently. Given her bobble-head she is looking for an understanding home who will give her a little extra care. As such, she’s looking for a home where she can be mostly an indoor cat as she may not hear cars too well on the road and can get a little off-balance. Bobbley is super friendly and would fit in well with most families. To meet her, phone the Tauranga centre on: 07 578 0245. Ref: 583141.

100%&naturalorganic

We need action on SH29

The recent announcement from the National Party around investment in State Highway 29 at Tauriko should be a welcome one for this community.

For those who may not be familiar with the project, it increases capacity of the road between Barkes Corner to the lower Kaimai, either via widening the road or bypassing it altogether.

Priority One works across the political spectrum; we welcome initiatives that will improve our community and economy, and this project certainly does that. Despite large growth, our region hasn’t had the favour of government investment in the past decade, and we desperately need to catch up.

It is clearly the best transport project that we have available in this region to ease congestion, project access to the Port of Tauranga, unlock residential and industrial land, and to provide better public transport in the future. Pleasingly, State Highway 2 to Ōmokoroa is also part of the transport policy, which will help congestion and access to work, education and healthcare for our community. While these outcomes are great locally, the importance of a good connection between Tauranga and Hamilton cannot be overlooked. The Port of Tauranga is of critical importance to Aotearoa’s

economy, and freight demand is forecast to increase at a higher rate than population in the decades to come. Since the excellent investment in State Highway 1 around Hamilton, this route is now a key connection for us to the rest of the Golden Triangle. For the good of our nation, it is important for us to keep supply lines to the Port as free as possible. This project cannot be completed quickly enough. While it is still at business case stage, it needs to be fast-tracked to ensure that we can keep up with expected growth and to unlock housing land in the area. An affordable housing market is essential to living standards in our region, now and in the future. We must act to address this quickly.

Go for a wander with your dog this month

Western Bay of Plenty District Council is stretching its Wander Dogs series into cooler months with a walk on Saturday, August 12.

The walk begins 9.30am at Uretara Landing Reserve, Noble Johnston Drive, Katikati.

WBOPDC animal services team leader Peter Hrstich encourages the canine community of every shape and size to join in the fun.

“Our summer dog walk series is really wellloved amongst dog owners in Western BOP so we thought why not put one on during the

Pre-arrange your funeral, for complete peace of mind.

Thinking about your own funeral is not always easy. It is a reality however, that one day the time will come when we will all need funeral services in some form. Whilst some might be comfortable leaving their funeral arrangements to loved ones after they die, others may choose to outline their wishes beforehand.

At Legacy Funerals, we believe pre-arranging your funeral is one of the most thoughtful things that you can do. Having some plans in place can be very reassuring for loved ones and can often help to ease the burden during a difficult time.

To get pre-arrangements started, one of our experienced Funeral Directors will meet with you to determine the specifics that will form a service unique to you. Meetings can take place at one of our premises here in Tauranga, at your home or, in a neutrally chosen space.

The Funeral Director will work alongside you, discussing the funeral options available to you and guiding you through the funeral process. They will help you to decide on such things as your preferred style of service, your ideal venue or location and in some cases, specific personalised traditions. Your wishes can then be recorded so that when the time comes, remaining family and friends know exactly what you wanted.

We understand cost is an important factor when considering your final farewell. By working

colder months as we all know dogs still need exercise and socialisation during winter.

“It’s a great chance to get outdoors in the fresh air with your furry bestie and explore a part of Katikati you might not have before.

“Plus, our dog expert Betty will be on hand to answer all your dog-related questions. So give her a yell before the walk if there’s something you’re keen on getting some tips and tricks on,” says Peter. Council is also holding a walk in Te Puke during September. See: westernbay.govt.nz

through your wishes, we can calculate an estimate for you and adjust it to suit, eliminating any concerns or worries you may have had prior. Once arrangements have been made, we advise that you discuss them with family or friends so that they understand the decisions that have been made.

Funeral services vary greatly, but they all fulfill the same need - to acknowledge and celebrate the life of someone we love. We believe that everyone should have a service most fitting to them and that each service should reflect the uniqueness of the person whose life is being honoured.

To take the first step toward pre-arranging your funeral, call us on 07 543 4780 or fill in the downloadable pre-arrangement form available on our website - legacyfunerals.co.nz.

The Legacy Funerals Tauranga Team

Legacy Funerals, Tauranga. 383 Pyes Pa Road, Tauranga | 167 Otūmoetai Road, Tauranga Corner of Te Okuroa Drive and Ashley Place, Pāpāmoa

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Construction begins on luxury retirement village

“Public biking tracks are woven all around the edge of our property, and golf and bowls will be a big part of life here. We’re going to have our own golf driving range and putting facility on-site, plus an internationalsize four-lane bowling green and croquet lawn.

“We’re excited to create a really unique, warm, relaxed, very high-

Construction of 159 stand-alone villas, which will create one of the finest retirement villages built in New Zealand, is underway in Ōmokoroa.

The Ōmokoroa Country Club is looking forward to residents moving in next April, with developer Sanderson Group confirming pre-sales have exceeded all expectations and many villas have already been snapped up.

“We’ll be raising the bar as high as possible at the Ōmokoroa Country Club,” says director Daryl Scott. “Combining all our previous years’ experience to ensure it will be the finest retirement village in the Bay of Plenty by some margin, alongside our other Sanderson Group villages, and will set the benchmark for the very best of retirement living in the country.”

Daryl says there’s huge demand for luxury retirement living and premium care facilities “and we feel Ōmokoroa is the perfect location for our high-end approach”. “We wanted to make sure every requirement was catered to and provide the ultimate retirement living experience.”

In addition to the villas, Ōmokoroa Country Club will provide peace of mind for residents with a full continuum of care including a range of care suite options and memory care in its dementia-friendly facility.

Its 1700m² clubhouse will house a bar, café, dance floor, billiards room, state-of-the-art movie theatre and library. An exclusive 700m2 health spa will have a swimming pool, spa, sauna, gymnasium, hairdresser and two specialist consulting rooms for beauty treatments and massage therapists. Residents will also benefit from motorhome parking and a hobby shed.

Another jewel of the village will be the stunning Lakehouse overlooking Waipapa stream, which borders the site. Thoughtfully designed to blend in with the natural landscape, residents will be able to use the space to indulge in their favourite hobbies or meet friends.

Scott says this development appeals to retirees looking to live independently in a safe and supportive village where residents can enjoy a sense of community and belonging and an active lifestyle.

quality retirement option here in the BOP. It will set a new standard of retirement living, well above what has been offered before.”

Interested parties are invited to contact Ōmokoroa Country Club’s general manager of sales and operations Ray Webber on: +64 21 075 0845 or email: sales@omokoroacountryclub.co.nz

An artist’s impression of the Ōmokoroa Country Club’s Lakehouse overlooking Waipapa stream. Photo: supplied.

Give nature a space to flourish in your backyard

Morning sun streams over your backyard as a young kowhai tree bows to the breeze. The distinctive song of the tui is heard above, colouring the air with sound.

Space for Nature – which launched last month – is Envirohub Bay of Plenty’s latest initiative, with project manager Sam Mortensen – the natureloving powerhouse behind it – excited to get the community on board!

“Space for Nature in essence is all about inspiring our urban residents to provide habitat and look after wildlife in their backyards.”

Sam says Space for Nature comes off the back of Envirohub’s Predator Free Bay of Plenty project where locals have been trapping rats in their backyards to protect native birds. “This is basically a next step where we can provide some advice, resources, encouragement and inspiration for people to do a few more bits and pieces that help people bring wildlife into their backyard and give them a safe space to live.

“If you take a bird’s eye view of an urban area –gardens do make up a lot of green space in towns and cities, and they’ve got the potential to provide habitats and connectivity between bush areas.”

Informal pledge

Sam says people taking part in the initiative are encouraged to sign an informal pledge to make space for nature in their backyard with three promises. “[The three promises are to provide] a wildlife friendly habitat; keep wildlife safe from predators and pets; and observe what’s going on in

their backyard and also connect with what’s going on outside their gates – like their local reserves with their neighbours, their street, trees, berms and gardens.” When people sign the pledge, they receive a Space for Nature membership and special Space for Nature sign to put on their gate or fence.

Inspire

“The purpose of that sign is to recognise that effort, but to also inspire other people in their neighbourhood to get involved,” says Sam.

“As part of a membership they also receive a tree to plant in their garden and we’re also going to be running workshops and events to help them with their local community and learn about what they can do –so things like planting different types of native plants that flower at different times of the year to provide food for birds and insects.”

Space for Nature is focusing on Western Bay of Plenty areas in its initial stages. Schools and businesses can get involved too! To find out more about and how to get involved, visit: www.waiarikiparkregion.org.nz/home/ spacefornature

Georgia Minkhorst

Crop Swap every month in Katikati

Western Bay of Plenty residents with excess produce, seeds or garden-related items they’d like to swap have a great outlet to do so each month in Katikati.

Grow On Katikati has a Super Shed Saturday on every first Saturday of the month – so the next one is on Saturday, September 2. The GOK group hold the event from 9.30am-10.30am at their shed beside Katikati Community Centre, on Beach Rd. A seed library is also on offer – with a chance to buy seeds for a gold coin donation. Get in touch by emailing: growonkatikati@gmail.com

Project Manager Sam Mortensen wants WBOP residents to sign an informal pledge to make space for nature in their backyard.

Photo: Merle Cave.

Bedding worth dreaming about

M.M Linen is a business blooming!

The bed linen and homewares company was co-founded by creative director Kerry Jackson and is continually drawn to nature and beautiful botanicals for inspiration.

The company has seen steady growth from its humble beginnings 10 years ago, and is now stocked in about 700 stores in New Zealand, Australia, UK, USA, South Africa, Canada and the United Arab Emirates, including major British multinational retailer Marks & Spencer and high-end department store chain John Lewis as well as a strong presence in Myer across the Tasman. In recent years, entrepreneurial

Christchurch-based businesswoman Kerry has opened three New Zealand stores –Auckland in June 2020, and Christchurch in August 2022 where their head offices are based. Recently they celebrated the opening of their newest store, right here in Tauranga in the Eleventh Ave shopping precinct on May 5.

For Kerry, watching her business grow has been invigorating. “I just love being my own boss, and I’m proud it’s a New Zealand, homegrown company focused on treading lightly on our environment.

“I love the opportunity to be creative and hands-on, and to be in control of my own destiny.”

M.M Linen’s coveted new Spring/ Summer 2023/2024 collection brings renewed optimism for the warmer seasons and pays homage to the great outdoors of New Zealand, with inspiring imagery from Lyttelton’s Pony Point, Christchurch’s Sumner Beach and beautiful local gardens.

“We’re a small but creative team and we have grown an incredible synergy amongst our New Zealand and global designers.”

Rejuvenate your indoor plants!

You don’t have to be a gardener to enjoy those random bursts of hot pink blossom appearing all around town. Because they are almost a pest!

You wouldn’t want to plant a prunus campanulata unless it was one of the selected varieties. We can blame the birds for spreading them around but for many of us they’re a real harbinger of spring.

Now is a good time to rejuvenate your indoor plants, many of which may have been struggling with overheated rooms and lower natural light. If the surface potting mix feels dry and hard, and there are roots clogging up the drainage holes, it’s time for action.

Do not overplant into pots that are one or two sizes larger as the plant may not be able to cope with excess wet potting mix. Never use ordinary garden soil in pots as it can compact too much and keep food and air from the plant’s feeding roots.

Last week I scored a

plant in the garden centre that’s not available very often – a Kalmia Latfolia or the Icing Sugar Bush. Every spring it covers itself with pink clusters, in my variety, which look as if they’ve been squeezed out of an icing tube onto a

birthday cake. They are related to azaleas and rhododendrons, and grow under similar conditions with an acid soil. A situation with morning sun or dappled shade suits this lovely shrub, and regular moisture with good drainage and a mulch of compost or leaf mould will make your kalmia very happy.

M.M Linen Tauranga assistant manager Tracey Giles, Dame Trelise Cooper, founder and creative director Kerry Jackson, retail assistant Jeanne Laypeyrade and retail manager Meg Marsh.

M.M Linen has opened a store on Eleventh Ave in May.

Spotting all the wildlife in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is known the world around for a range of things – unbelievable inflation, gorgeous scenery, Victoria Falls. But it’s also the best place in the world to go on a safari.

My husband Dan and I were in Zimbabwe earlier this year and stayed near Hwange National Park; the largest and most popular park in the country. It boasts fantastic wildlife viewing and has most big safari animals.

We booked ourselves three nights at Gwango Heritage Resort – I highly recommend it if you’re planning a trip to Zim. The resort offers allinclusive safari packages, both full and half days, so we booked, went to bed that night and woke up excited for our day in the wild.

We bundled up warm – African mornings in May can be chilly – and boarded our safari vehicle for the day.

Our guide Mahko was full of knowledge and humour and had us laughing constantly. Being a safari, I decided it would be fun to make ‘Dan and Cayla’s Hwange Bush Bingo’; a bingo card with animals to spot. This definitely

added to the fun of the day and we even got Mahko onboard helping us spot animals hiding in the bushes - and breaking up squabbles. The very first animal of the day was a leopard. Notoriously elusive and with a small hunting radius, spotting leopard is considered uncommon when you’re on a safari. We got lucky for sure!

As the day progressed we saw everything you could possibly want – a few hundred elephants, two older lions and half a zebra (I’ll let you figure that one out), crocodile, hippo, lots of jumping impala, baboons, giraffes, and of course a few whole zebra too. And that’s not even mentioning the gorgeous birds! We saw more ‘Zazu’s’ from ‘The Lion King’ than I could count!

Around lunchtime we pulled into one of the park’s well-equipped picnic spots and Mahko unpacked a feast for us. Sitting around the shaded table with hot pasta and cold beer while watching the elephants walk off to find the next watering hole was a fantastic experience.

A lot of safari animals tend to hibernate in the hottest part of the day, so the mid-afternoon was for bird watching and a scenic drive through the park.

As the evening approached and the day cooled, creatures started to emerge again and we had to stop a few times to let elephants and giraffes finish crossing our road – something that boggled my Kiwi mind.

Mahko dropped us back off at our resort once night fell and most animals had gone to bed, where dinner was ready and waiting for us after warm showers and a fresh change of clothes. So, if you’re planning a trip to Hwange, a safari is certainly on the ‘definitely to do’ list!

Cayla-Fay Euinton

If you crave travel experiences beyond the ordinary coach tours and seek to journey with a group of newfound friends, you’ve come to the perfect place.

Welcome to Southern Exposure Tours, where authentic holidays to the world’s most captivating destinations are masterfully crafted by owner Silvana Gottini.

Silvana’s passion for travel has taken her

Let the world be your playground!

across Latin America, South East Asia, and Europe, leading and designing tours. Now, she, along with our expert tour leaders, are ready to help you unlock the allure of South America’s history and flavours, hike through the scenic European Alps, and immerse yourself in Japan’s serene landscapes and culinary wonders. Embrace the freedom of exploring the great outdoors, delve into diverse cultures, and savour authentic cuisine and experiences that leave lasting impressions. With carefully curated

itineraries, each journey guarantees camaraderie and adventure as you bond with like-minded individuals. Don’t settle for ordinary group tours; embark on enriching adventures where you can embrace new horizons and create cherished memories. Let the world be your playground as you embark on these exceptional journeys. Join them today, and let the thrill of exploring with newfound friends ignite your passion for travel once more.

The best place for trick pics

Art, not as you would expect it to be!

The 3D Trick Art Gallery in Rotorua is the perfect place to get memorable photos for your family and friends.

Being the only 3D trick art gallery in New Zealand, you will not be disappointed with the 53 pieces of artwork that you will find yourself a part of.

Where else can you find yourself climbing mountains, riding Alpacas, standing stranded on an ice edge, trying to stop yourself from becoming a crocodile’s dinner then flying away in a hot air balloon, all in one day?

This indoor activity is great to visit in any weather. So get out of the rain, or cool down on those hot days in our air-conditioned areas; the 3D Trick Art Gallery is the place to be.

Emirates celebrates 20 years of New Zealand flights

Last week marked 20 years of Emirates flying to New Zealand, as the airline celebrates amid its strongest presence in the market to date. On August 2, 2003, Emirates launched its first service from New Zealand, marked by two inaugural flights - the first via Sydney on a Boeing 777300ER and the second on an A330 from Melbourne.

During the past two decades

Emirates has flown more than 16 million passengers between Dubai and New Zealand across 49,000 flights to Auckland and Christchurch.

FOR ACTIVE OVER 50'S

& FOOD

Flowering meadows, the Italian dolomites and alpine villages. 23 Days Departs 19th June 2024

An extraordinary holiday that blends hiking with the delights of authentic Japanese food and some traditional homestays.

16 Days - Departs 16th May 2024

An epic journey through Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia & Peru. Includes Inti Raymi, the Sun Festival.

31 Days - Departs 4th June 2024

PURELY PERU or add GALAPAGOS

Are you ready to savor the flavors of Peru while exploring its rich culture. Add-on the Galapagos!

16 Days - Departs 20th August 2024

Emirates is currently flying 14 weekly flights to New Zealand from Dubai, with direct daily services to Auckland, and to Christchurch via Sydney, offering passengers the only opportunity to travel across the Trans-Tasman on an A380.

Emirates’ Dubai to Auckland service remains the longest route on the airline’s network, taking passengers on a 14,000km journey to their destination.

Christchurch remains the smallest city on the network to be serviced by the flagship A380.

JAPAN WALKING & FOOD

EUROPEAN ALPS WALKING

STH AMERICAN SOJOURN

Time to take action for nature!

This year for Conservation Week/ Te Wiki Tiaki Ao Tūroa – on from August 14-20 – the Department of Conservation is asking Aotearoa to take action for nature.

“Whether it is by picking up rubbish, donating time or money to a local community group, there is always something you can do to help our environment and the native

species that make Aotearoa special,” according to DoC.

The week’s aim is to promote greater interest in the environment and to encourage people to take practical actions to look after it. If you’re looking for something to do during Conservation Week, check out: www.doc.govt.nz/news/events/ conservation-week/events

Ten days of arts in the city!

A lively programme of 27 events that traverses the full gamut of arts experiences will take over the city from October 19-29 as the 13th biennial Tauranga Arts Festival unfolds.

The festival programme is now live at: www.taurangafestival.co.nz

And audiences are in for a real treat, with some of our finest theatre makers, writers, comedians, poets, singers and artists set to energise the city with 10 days of arts.

The festival will host artists such as rising star and altpop sensation Theia, novelist Emily Perkins, filmmaker Gaylene Preston, award-winning theatre maker Katie Wolfe, Morgana O’Reilly of ‘Mean Mums’ fame, The Veils’ Finn Andrews, ground-breaking director Anapela Polata’ivao, local hero Lynley Dodd, revered Samoan actor Maiava Nathaniel Lees, ‘That Bloody Woman’s’ Esther Stephens, Ockham Book Award winner Tusiata Avia, NZTrio and songbirds like Anna Coddington, Julia Deans and Mel Parsons.

Something for everyone

The first programme curated by new artistic director and Arts Foundation Laureate Shane Bosher, he wants everyone in Tauranga Moana to feel like the festival has made space for them.

“From hip-hop street dance battles to interactive space adventures to raucous funnies with Aotearoa’s queens of comedy, there really is something for everyone.

“The programme strikes a balance between thoughtprovoking contemporary work, which will expand your mind, and inclusive free community events for the whole whānau.

“Locals, visitors, arts buffs and first-timers are all welcome,” says Shane.

The theatre programme offers the opportunity to experience some of the finest original works made in Aotearoa in recent years. ‘The Haka Party Incident’ joins ‘The Savage Coloniser Show’, ‘UPU’, ‘Stories About My Body’ and ‘Tea with Terrorists’ to bring provocative and inspirational theatre to the stage.

For ages seven to 70-plus, ‘Mission Control: Mars’ combines live performance and video game engine technology to team up and launch a rocket to Mars. Meanwhile, ‘Moon’ is created for younger audience including pre-school youngsters.

The live music programme is an exciting blend of genres from Ireland’s award-winning Gráda to the soft alt-country tones of Jenny Mitchell.

Ten years ago, vocalist Tama Waipara knocked out Tauranga audiences in Silo Theatre’s ‘Brel’.

He returns to the festival with ‘Te Katoa’, a stirring catalogue of new waiata that explore whakapapa and legacy.

Whole whanau

The whole whānau are invited to the waterfront on Saturday, October 28, for Waiata Mai. Aiming to bring people together through song while uplifting te reo Māori, this free event is led by local heroes such as Ria Hall and is curated by Tauranga’s own Jason Te Mete.

Biggie & Smalls is an epic show of street dance fun

For ages seven to 70-plus, ‘Mission Control: Mars’ combines live performance and video game engine technology to team up and launch a rocket to Mars. Photo: supplied.

for the whole whānau. Locals are encouraged to join in a free workshop one night – then get to show off their skills at a family-friendly street dance battle the next night.

Winners are judged and crowned by the audience. For comedy lovers, Tauranga’s favourite country music legend from Cripple Creek, Colorado, Wilson Dixon returns with an all-new show made especially for Tauranga Arts Festival. And 2023 Billy T Award, winner Abby Howells will offer a hilarious take on love and nautical trauma. Fellow comedians and TV stars Justine Smith and Kura Forrester round out a comedy programme.

The Visual Arts programme celebrates the work of Tauranga Moana artists through special partnerships with Toi Tauranga Art Gallery, Toi Ohomai | Te Pūkenga and the Heritage Collection.

Highlights include an interactive installation where punters follow a hidden city-wide trail for Wunderboxes, and a wickedly playful take on inclusion via ‘A Seat at the Table’. Plus, a meeting of old and new ideas informs ‘Te Whakaata I Te Matapihi: Glimpses’ which asks rangatahi to respond to objects found in city’s Heritage Collection.

Multiple locations

The 2023 festival takes over the city in multiple locations including the Cargo Shed, Carrus Crystal Palace, Edgewater Fan, Baycourt Community & Arts Centre, University of Waikato and special pop-up locations such as Red Square. Tauranga Arts Festival runs October 19-29. For more information and bookings, visit: www.taurangafestival.co.nz

A superfluity of festivals

I learnt something from ‘Brokenwood’ the other night; it’s nice when the telly offers a side-order of education. There’s something about ‘Brokenwood ‘that makes it a laid-back guilty pleasure. There’s the country-leaning Kiwi soundtrack but I also get a touch of Tauranga pride that the best episodes are often written by ex-local lad Tim Balme. What I learnt in the weekend, not from a Tim Balme script as it happens, is that the collective noun for nuns is a superfluity.

Since the town of Brokenwood apparently suffers the highest murder rate in New Zealand, one of the – spoiler alert – not-actually-nuns living in the local not-actuallya-convent became deceased. And the very capable Fern Sutherland pronounced that the collective noun for nuns is a superfluity. Which – nerd alert – I immediately looked up. It seemed odd that a collective noun would be, well, slightly rude.

And indeed, the Oxford tells us that superfluity means “an unnecessarily or excessively large amount or number of something”. But that’s the enduringly wonderful thing about collective nouns. They often manage to be completely surprising yet satisfyingly apt. Like a French tomato and banana soup: it’s hard to imagine the flavour, yet the minute you taste it the combination becomes perfectly understandable.

Animals

The animal ones are the best. Who doesn’t love a parliament of owls; or a bloat of hippopotamuses?

A new one for me is a shrewdness of apes, which is very good and apparently dates back to the 1500s. But they are simply endless. I hope you will be as amused as I am by a few of my more recent favourites, and I haven’t made up any of these...

Here we go: a damning of jurors; an incredulity of cuckolds; a misbelief of painters (that’s painters of paintings, not of houses); a tabernacle of bakers; a balance of accountants; and a drunkenship of cobblers. A big thank you to the English language for providing such endless entertainment.

And we better move onto the arts, since this past week has provided a superfluity of festival announcements in Tauranga. Taking them in order, the first thing on the calendar is Tauranga’s edition of the NZ International Film Festival. Things kicked off earlier this week on August 10 and run until August 27, and while several of the tastier treats from Auckland haven’t

made it here there is still a lot to enjoy. Be warned, some of the online programmes are incorrect and miss out several films. The Rialto has hard copies.

Music docs

There are three music documentaries, about Ennio Moriconne, Little Richard and one that’s local: ‘Tiki Taane In Session

With CSO’, which documents his one-off 2021 collaboration with the Christchurch orchestra. Elsewhere there is recent Cannes Palme d’Or winner, the French film ‘Anatomy of a Fall’, as well as Sundance hit ‘Past Lives’, an intensely intimate Korean film that is getting great word of mouth.

There is also the latest from deadpan Finnish director Aki Kaurismaki, ‘Fallen Leaves’, and a new Wim Wenders film, ‘Perfect Days’. Legendary octogenarian Polish film-maker Jerzy Skolimowski presents a by-all-accounts charming film about a donkey, ‘EO’. But perhaps the film I’m looking forward to most is ‘Monster’, from Japan’s Kore-eda Hirokazu. It stars Ando Sakura who also led the director’s previous Palme d’Or winner, the brilliant ‘Shoplifters’. Moving on, Loserpalooza returns to Totara Street at the Mount on September 2, with two dozen bands, 12 hours of mayhem and hardcore goodness. This time – and kudos to the organisers – it is a proudly totally local affair. More on that next week...

And the Tauranga Arts Festival has launched its official programme.

It’s online and there are groovy little booklets all over town.

As you would expect, there’s a whole bunch of music and much that has me fizzing at the bung, including a collaboration between Finn Andrews (of The Veils) and the NZTrio’s violin, cello and piano.

Alt-country singer Jenny Mitchell is performing, as is Tama Waipara; Irish band Grada is returning to New Zealand; Katherine Mansfield has her words put to music, and 1960s girl groups are celebrated by the Up-Doos. There’s also the unique country stylings of Wilson Dixon. I will explore in more depth before October.

Tiki Taane on stage with his children, Karcia and Charlie.

Little Richard.

Churches Active In Our Community

where do you turn?

It can be said that we live in troubling times, with lots of challenges facing our immediate world – severe weather events, inflation, cost of living increases, unexpected sickness or personal tragedies. The list is endless.

A close friend of mine and a brother in Christ has been facing his own ‘day of trouble’ for some time now, looking for employment while already un-employed – and this challenging experience has lasted for more than six months.

In your ‘day of trouble’, where or to Whom do you turn for help?

In Psalm 77, the author (Asaph) teaches us where we should turn for help. The troubled heart should pray to the God of heaven and earth.

Not just glib little prayers, but heartfelt, earnest, ‘crying aloud’ prayers based on a personal relationship with the God who has created all things, who still governs all events and personal circumstances.

In Psalm 77:1-2 Asaph says: “I cry aloud to God, aloud to God, and he will hear me. In the day of my trouble I seek the Lord”.

Although Asaph is praying from a place of deep anguish, even despair; he prays with confidence that his God will hear his prayer. This confidence is based on his past experience of God’s faithfulness; in verses 10-13 he says: “I will appeal to this, to the years of the right hand of the Most High. I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds. Your way, O God, is holy. What god is great like our God?”

Dear reader, in whatever ‘day of trouble’ you may face I encourage you to turn in faith and trust to God.

Byline: Richard Roodt, Redeemer Church Tauranga.

Share your home and culture!

Learn about different cultures, create memories and make connections overseas by opening your home to an international student.

Tauranga Boys’ College is looking for host families and couples to give students an authentic Kiwi homestay experience. “We are looking for top quality host families who will open their hearts and homes to our international students,” says Tauranga Boys’ College homestay manager Jane Waldegrave.

Jane has been a host family to international students herself and loved it. “I wanted to provide my children with some experience of other cultures and different perspectives on life, through hosting international students.”

Being a homestay family is also great for developing connections with different families and

people overseas, says Jane. “I hosted Italian boys and I visited both their families in their hometown.” Making sure international students connect with their host families is key, says Jane. “We compare the student’s profile with a prospective host family and try to match people with similar interests.

One of our German boys is extremely keen on hockey and is happily placed with a The school’s international director Annette Roff says international student numbers are increasing at Tauranga Boys’ College.

“Therefore it is paramount that we have top quality, caring families to support our programme.

“This experience is rewarding and often families can gain insight into another culture that can be life-changing for them as a family.”

Tauranga Boys’ College is looking for homestays in central Bay of Plenty areas and suburbs.

To signal your interest, contact Jane Waldegrave at email: j.waldegrave@tbc. school.nz or phone 07 578 4029.

Tauranga Boys’ College homestay manager Jane Waldegrave has had great experiences from being a host to students. Photo: supplied.

Enjoy the unbridled hilarity of ‘Dirty Work’

hits from Aotearoa and India.

August 18-20.

The story goes like this: the computers are down and the big boss in India wants the impossible. A hapless middle manager, his unhelpful assistant and their chorus of office workers are making a mess of things. Which isn’t good news for the cleaner. Workplace hierarchies are shattered, class and culture clash – and, from

the chaos, emerges a different way to value one another.

Born out of Indian Ink’s collaboration with choral master John Rosser and leading choir

Viva Voce, ‘Dirty Work’ features classic tunes and contemporary

“And in a toe-tapping twist there’s a different choir on-stage every night, but none have read the script!” says script writers Jacob Rajan and Justin “All they know is that cubicle-bound office workers taking direction from ‘the boss’.” Chaos unfolds as the story is revealed to the choir at the same time as the audience, adding to the unbridled joy and hilarity of Jacob and Justin, who are Indian Ink co-founders, say the cast includes Justin Rogers returning following his brilliant performance in ‘Mrs Krishnan’s Party’, joined by rising stars Tessa Rao, Catherine Yates and Josh Clark, all under the stellar direction of Lewis himself. Don’t miss this Tauranga! See the advert on this page for ticket details.

Rising Stars competition finalists to perform with Symphonia

Bay of Plenty Symphonia is delighted to

on piano: ‘Beethoven’ - Piano Concerto No.1’, The Symphonia’s Rising Stars concerts have taken place every two years since 2009 and have secured a special place in the calendars of the Bay’s classical music lovers, young musicians and their teachers.

Tickets cost adults $26.50, concession $24.50, students/ children $3, plus booking fees, from Baycourt Theatre and online via Ticketek.

Supported by NZCT, Bay Insurance, Seeka, Stratum Consultants, Tauranga Harbour City Lion’s Club, Volcanic Hills Winery and the One Foundation.

The Weekend Sun has one double pass to ‘Dirty Work’ at Tauranga’s Baycourt Addison Theatre to give away to one lucky reader who can tell us the name of Indian Ink Theatre’s 2022 tour.

Enter by emailing: competitions@thesun.co.nz Entries must be received by Tuesday, August 15.

‘Taking to the Skies’ by Elodie Broad.

The finalists and their chosen pieces are: Sienna Tang on flute: Danzi – ‘Concerto No.2 in D minor’, Op.31, 3rd movement; Ned Shaw on trumpet: Boehme – ‘Concerto in F minor’, 1st movement; Enoch Tie on flute: Quantz –‘Concerto in G Major’, QV5-174, 1st movement; Pachakamac Lema on cello: ‘Haydn - Cello Concerto in C’, 2nd movement; and David Jiang

The Weekend Sun has one double pass to the finals concert at Baycourt on Sunday, August 27, to give away to one lucky reader who can tell us how many young musicians will perform.

Enter by emailing: competitions@thesun.co.nz Entries must be received by Tuesday, August 15.

Justin Rogers and Tessa Rao perform in ‘Dirty Work’. Photo: supplied.

Hayden Butt performing Debussy’s ‘Première Rhapsodie’. Photo: supplied.

Look at domain space

Attn: Tauranga City Council: I strongly believe that the future use of the Wharepai Domain should be viewed through a 50-year lens, not the 10-year cycle currently under consideration.

In case no one has noticed, during the last four decades Tauranga/ Mount Maunganui/Pāpāmoa has morphed into a major city and the present use of the domain has outlived its original intent.

The existing sports facilities cater to a relatively small number of local patrons and the associated activities create a major disruption to traffic flow.

Cameron Road has become an important arterial route and traffic management, together with associated parking problems, and this will undoubtedly get worse over time.

I believe the Commission’s view is

short-sighted thinking around what is essentially a long-term problem.

In my opinion the whole area should be designated a future civic development zone, catering to the establishment of community facilities such as an interactive type museum/art gallery or possibly an events centre. The present sports facilities could be relocated, over time, to the green space presently occupied by the racecourse. That would allow the establishment of a ‘proper’ stadium together with an integrated sports hub to cater for other sporting activities. Tauranga City is no longer a village – and, as an economic entity, we should be encouraging the development of the CBD to appeal to a wider range of local visitors, as well as international tourists.

Rob Thompson, Tauranga City.

****TCC replies: Tauranga City Council thanks Rob and Steve for sharing their thoughts about the proposed community stadium; we’ve added these to the feedback recently received through a digital survey. It should be noted that this is a community-led project. If the potential costs and benefits

I have followed the debate over the merits of a boutique stadium at the Tauranga Domain for some months and have completed the Tauranga City Council survey. Correct me if others have proposed the following idea:

Demolish main grandstand. Retain athletic running track as is. Build two long rectangular shed-like structures on either side of the ground. One ‘shed’ replaces the grandstand, the other ‘shed’ is by the fence facing Cameron Rd. These structures could be further enhanced with changing facilities, function rooms, offices etc.

Purchase off-the-shelf mobile indoor tiered stadium seating – twice the size of TECT Arena seating.

When there’s a rugby or football game place steel plates over the running track, roll the tiered seating over the running track and you have a readymade ‘boutique stadium’ – with the best viewing position in NZ. When the game has finished, roll it back under cover.

In short, a 15,000 capacity stadium for a lot less than $220m. A bonus athletic running track at no extra cost. What about this TCC?

Steve Walker, Matua.

of a stadium do ‘stack-up’, the Commission would look to undertake formal community consultation through the Council’s 2024-34 Long Term Plan process later this year and we would encourage everyone with an interest to participate in that.

All money wasted....

The Government doesn’t need more tax money to spend. They need to show more constraint and stop wasting the money they already have.

For example: $51 million on a cycle bridge over the Auckland Harbour; $32 million on study of the Manukau Harbour for a port. It will never happen. The sea will always win.

Another $15 million on a TV/radio merger; $94 million on Three Waters; $132 million on bus subsidies; $365,000 on opening Transmission Gully. And, probably more I don’t know about. All money wasted.

Val Brazier, Avenues.

Well-phrased!

Re: Tony Wahren’s letter ‘No pulling the wool’, Letters page 16, The Weekend Sun, July 13.

So well phrased Tony! I wonder if the Labour Government researched the health factors of synthetic underlay and carpets. To quote from just one site on the internet: “The properties of nylon are such that friction ie. walking across it causes a build-up - a static charge through the contact. The charge transfers to the body, so when you touch a metal object like a door knob; which conducts electricity you get a slight shock”. I also believe symptoms of nylon carpet allergy can cause skin irritation, tingling, burning, etc. and long term mental health effects.

M.A. Batchelor, Ohauiti.

Tauranga has lost a dose of common sense with the passing of former city councillor Bill Faulkner.

First elected in 1983, Bill served eight non-consecutive terms during 30 years, often focusing on what he saw as essential infrastructure over more glamorous projects. His legacy is the best quality water in New Zealand, a harbour free from sewer overflows, and motorways built.

Bill’s determination helped bring microfiltration technology to Tauranga’s water plants years ahead of other cities. He wasn’t afraid to take unpopular stances, such as leading the charge on water meters, even though it cost him his seat once. His perspective was clear: why should you pay for your neighbour to waste water when you only use it for necessities? It bought Tauranga 15 years before we needed the next water plant.

Bill led the $100m Southern Pipeline project to connect the Chapel St and Te Maunga wastewater treatment plants. Eliminating sewage overflows into the harbour. He had the

vision to support the construction of Route P (now Takitimu Drive), Route J, and the Route K toll road. Essential roads that council had to build because the Government of the day refused.

Beyond utilities, Bill looked out for future ratepayers by supporting the acquisition of Smith’s and Paurau Farms as future parks and reserves. Sadly, these are in the process of being sold off.

Bill kept residents up-to-date on happenings in council in his ‘Faulkner's Corner’ column here in The Weekend Sun. Some of his former colleagues didn’t always welcome his appraisals! Bill’s pragmatic approach has left a mark on Tauranga. His concentration on tangible improvements over nice-to-have projects may have upset some. Still, his influence is undeniable every time you turn on your tap, flush the toilet, or drive your car.

Rebranding is insensitive!

I am really quite annoyed that Countdown has decided to spend a reported $400 million rebranding its NZ stores back to Woolworths.

This is really not fair when this supermarket chain is making good profits and people are struggling to buy basic groceries to feed their families. Actually, it’s quite insensitive of them.

We only have a Countdown supermarket in our town – and despite the fact I love all the local workers who run it, I think I will shop to another supermarket in town.

This move just wreaks of bad timing and insensivity and the chain not knowing or considering its market here in NZ.

K Rodden, Katikati.

greerton

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Saint James Church Hall, Greerton - corner of Pooles Street and Devon Road. Clothing, shoes, books, toys, bric a brac and small furniture.

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annual book sale

TAURANGA RACECOURSE. Books and jigsaws wanted for Tauranga Harbour City Lions 10th, 11th & 12th November Book Sale. Drop

off points are: Harvey Norman, Cameron Rd. BedPost, Tauriko. Wet & Forget, Chapel St Centre. Countdown Bethlehem Town Centre. Bunnings DIY Section, Jean Batten Drive, Mt Maunganui. Please no magazines or encyclopedias – Enquiries please phone 021 064 5360

bible digest

“IT IS WRITTEN: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.‘” – Jesus(Matthew4:4)

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

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livestock

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

369 6269

lost & found

FOUND KITTENS & PUPPIES various places, colours and sex.

Ph SPCA 07 578 0245

FOUND CAT, Black & White Male, approximately 2 years old, Ohauiti.

Ref 585203.

FOUND KITTEN, Black Tabby, Female, approximately 3 months old, Ranginui Road, Welcome Bay.

funeral services

Ref 585041. Ph SPCA 07 5780245

trades & services

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

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 receive all our VIP Members

Benefits exclusive to No 8 Tours. Our Brand-New Catalogue jam-packed fill of tours is now available, selling fast, don’t miss out!!

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ZEALANDIER TOURS - Thursday 17 August – Join us for a Premium High Tea in Rotorua with a bit of sightseeing down some side roads on the way – Call us to book your seats today. Ph 572 4118

public notices

Extension to submission period - Intent to Grant Licence to Occupy Reserve for Tree Nursery –Tahawai Reserve – Tanners Point Road

mobility wanted

public notices

BAYPARK TO BAYFAIR LINK OVERNIGHT CLOSURES OF STATE HIGHWAY 2

houses wanted

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency wishes to advise that SH2 northbound (between Sandhurst interchange and SH2/SH29A Te Maunga interchange) will be closed overnight from Sunday 13 August to Wednesday 16 August (approximately 7pm to 6am each night) to open the final off-ramp of SH2/SH29A Te Maunga interchange.

During these hours, a signposted detour via Mangatawa Link Road, Truman Lane and SH2/29A Te Maunga interchange will apply. 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 residents for their patience.

Pursuant to the provisions of the Reserves Act 1977 the Western Bay of Plenty District Council proposes to grant a licence to occupy for native tree nursery purposes for a period of up to 5 years with the provision to renew for another 5 years over the following: 2119m² more or less comprised of Allotment 183 SO 56580 which is located at the western (SH2) side of the reserve. Anyone wishing to make comments, submissions or objections may do so in writing or by email. All correspondence to be received before 5pm Friday 20 October 2023.

Postal correspondence to the Legal Property Officer, Reserves and Facilities, Western Bay of Plenty District Council, Private Bag 12803, Tauranga Mail Centre, Tauranga 3143 or by email reserves@westernbay.govt.nz.

Privacy Act 2020: The details of your submission will be publicly available as part of the decision-making process. The information will be held at Western Bay of Plenty District Council, Head Office, 1484 Cameron Road, Tauranga. Submitters have the right to access and correct their personal information.

John Holyoake Chief Executive Officer

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