The Weekend Sun - 8 September 2023

Glenn calls time

He will still hear the Te Puke Fire Station’s siren wailing in the night, he will still wonder what’s going down, whether it’s a re, an accident or a medical call-out. But Glenn Williams can deservedly resist

the urge to answer the call, he can stay in bed. Because it’s all over. After 44 years of service to the volunteer re brigade, after more than four decades years of putting out house res, factory

res, of turning out to gruesome accidents and medical incidents, Glenn has retired. He’s handed over his Te Puke chief re o cer helmet to his deputy Dale Lindsay. is week Glenn talks to e Weekend

Sun about the sacri ces, the stresses, the tragedy, the enduring sadness and the ful lment that come with being a volunteer re ghter. Glenn and his re ghter’s story is on page 8-9. Photo: John Borren.

Merle Cave

The Weekend Sun is published every Friday and distributed throughout the Western Bay of Plenty from Waihi Beach, through Katikati, Tauranga, Mount Maunganui,

Letitia Atkinson, Alisha Evans, Rosalie Liddle Crawford, Taylor Rice, Georgia Minkhorst, Hunter Wells

Claire Rogers

Photography: John Borren. Publications Manager: Kathy Sellars.

Jo Delicata, Karlene Sherris, Suzy King, Lois Natta, Sharon Eyres, Sophie Main. Design Studio: Kym Johnson, Kerri Wheeler, Amy Bennie, Caitlin Burns O ce: Angela Speer, Kristina Clayton

Persephone sends us flowers

It’s damned confusing. e seasonal body clock’s all to hell, all out of sync. Has spring already sprung or is it still tightly coiled, but about to ‘sproing’?

I am taking my cue from a blackbird, who, with his bright orange beak and yellow eye rings, is leaping up and down excitedly on my deck trying to tell me the seasonal change is done.

Spring HAS sprung.

Persephone, I call him, for the Goddess of Spring.

And it’s hard to argue with his shrill rising ‘squees’ and ‘readle-eaks’ like a rusty gate. Blackbird seems to sense something – perhaps some mating, some ‘lerv’, nesting, a family. He senses spring.

Meteorologically, the seasons are compartmentalised into tidy threemonth blocks. So spring started September 1. e astronomical way means the vernal equinox is two weeks tomorrow. I am sure some Dan Corbett-type will tell me that’s all wrong.

I will go with the blackbird. And the da odil patch, beneath the arching trees, on the edge of a sprawling tra c island on Chapel St.

One day there’s nothing there, it’s been mown at. e next day, a brilliant burst of colour, the colour of spring.

“She wore her yellow sun-bonnet, She wore her greenest gown, She turned to the south wind, And curtsied up and down.”

JM Barrie captured it.

“She turned to the sunlight,

And shook her yellow head, And whispered to her neighbour, Winter is dead.”

New growth

Winter is dead, the gloom has lifted, there’s new growth, lots of new growth. Not just da odils but bricks and mortar. Tauranga is blossoming.

ere’s a construction crane on the CBD skyline, a foundation drilling rig towering above the building site hoardings on e Strand. ere are hard hats everywhere. Spring has brought growth on many levels.

Stu is happening. And the Commissioners must gaze down from HQ on Cameron Rd and feel deservedly smug.

At 6.02 this morning, a big rig laden with huge aminated timber sections pulled up to 90 Devonport Rd – the skeleton of NZ’s largest mass timber o ce building.

It’s an artwork in progress.

Just down the road, the $50 million redevelopment of 2 Devonport Rd –14,000m2 and 10 levels of retail, o ce and high-end apartments. ings are going up, and one is coming down.

In Harington St, the inglorious ‘transport hub’ – a monument to a previous council’s folly, is being picked apart without a car ever parking there. We’ll feel better when that blight’s gone. A pop-up art gallery has sprouted from all the dead wood at the bottom of Devonport Rd. I spied it while cycling one Sunday morning. e curator that morning, an e ervescent Brazilian woman, threw open the doors and beckoned the lycra, helmet and sweat in to see some Peata Larkin and Alexis Neal works.

So a Brazilian, an old ‘honky’ and Maori art – a full, unexpected, bacon and beans, cultural Sunday breakfast. Suddenly the CBD is exciting.

I questioned the need for a basketball court downtown on Dive Crescent. But the constant ‘thwunk’ of a ball

rebounding o the ring reminds me I was very, very wrong. Young people and basketballs gravitate from nowhere at the oddest of times.

Tidal steps? Who would come to the centre of town for a swim? I was wrong again. It was an inspirational call. But it was the Commission signing o on its greatest ‘gift’ to the city – Te Manawatakiu o Te Papa, the heartbeat of Te Papa, that got this heart thumping – $306.3 million worth of grand new civic precinct rising from the dark hole where nasty, creeping, toxic black mould spores sent council sta scuttling for safe ground on Cameron Rd. It will be entertainment in itself watching this edi ce rise from the ashes – new library, new museum, new community hub and new civic whare – and upgrades to the art gallery and Baycourt. Soon we’ll start looking and feeling like the country’s fth biggest city.

6000 people

And while you’re beating o all the critics – please Commissioners, put the rooftop restaurant back on the agenda. For a few extra ‘mil’ we could be sucking on elegant Pisco Sours, snacking on elegant baked crab and avocado dip hors-d’œuvres, while listening to deep funky mood music and taking in a Caribbean-type sunset over Tauranga Harbour from our new rooftop restaurant.

It’s projected 6000 people a day will visit the new civic precinct and many will want more than sausage rolls and club sandwiches.

Let’s give them a new high-end Tauranga experience, wring the visitor dollars out of them and send them home with wonderful promotional stories about a wonderful city. Perhaps that’s what blackbird’s all chirpy about. Let’s called the rooftop restaurant Persephone.

month blocks. So spring started

retail, o ce and high-end

Customers ‘don’t feel safe’

Customers concerned for their safety in Downtown Tauranga due to antisocial behaviour occurring in the CBD is causing business struggles, according to one restaurant manager.

Amid construction on Devonport Rd and a lack of access to parking, Turkish restaurant Abrakebabra manager Seyda Coskun says crime and homelessness in Tauranga City is another detriment to the business.

“We’ve had people try smash our windows, glass doors and we had someone break into our shop and steal our laptop with all of our sensitive business information,” says Seyda.

“ ere’s just a lot of crime going on and people don’t want to go somewhere they don’t feel safe.

“We have a lot of customers complain that there’s too many homeless people on the street and that they don’t feel safe sending their kids afterschool to come and get food anymore – and that’s disappointing. It’s hard.”

Tauranga Business Chamber chief executive Matt Cowley says “growing antisocial behaviour” is one of the main issues for CBD businesses. “ ere are many stories of in-store intimidation, repeated minor theft, and after-hours vandalism. Businesses are encouraged to contact the Police or log the event at the Police’s 10-7 website,” says Matt.

Tauranga Central Police Station’s Senior Sergeant

Scott Merritt says police have not noticed an increase in antisocial behaviour during recent weeks. However, Scott says: “Police have increased patrols in the Tauranga CBD to monitor the area and reassure the community”.

“Rough sleeping, begging or being homeless are in themselves not criminal o ences but police are called from time-to-time to deal with issues around matters involving public disorder or complaints about antisocial behaviour, including burglaries.”

Tauranga City Council general manager of city development and partnerships Gareth Wallis says ensuring the community and businesses feel safe in the CBD is very important to council.

“Many of the issues at hand are complex and addressing them requires a collaborative e ort,” says Gareth. He says council has also recently created a new City Safety and Engagement Advisor role to support business owners in the short-term surrounding safety and security concerns. “We are actively working with the police, Downtown Tauranga and other social agencies to look at ways in which we can help deter antisocial behaviour and provide wraparound support for those people within our community who are in need.”

Scott says: “Police are committed to acting on all reports of crime, and the public can help us by reporting incidents of unsafe behaviour to us”.

If you see any illegal activity in the CBD, call 111 immediately or 105 if it is after the fact.

Georgia Minkhorst

Abrakebabra family business members Seyda Coskun, Hayati Gurleyen and Hatice Saribuga Gurleyen have experienced CBD crime rst-hand. Photo: Bob Tulloch.

A fine day for AIMS Games fine

More than 35 parking tickets were issued to Zespri AIMS Games supporters on the event’s rst day as cars squeezed around Mount Maunganui’s Blake Park.

With Zespri AIMS Games kicking o at the start of the week, seeing more than 22,000 people ood to host venues around Tauranga City, one Mount Maunganui resident is not happy with how visiting sporting supporters have been welcomed. Nikki Barnard called e Sun after seeing Tauranga City Council parking wardens ticketing vehicles parked on verges around Maunganui Rd, including Hinau St and Kawaka St, near Blake Park.

No inconvenience

“I was just so angry to see a parking warden ticketing people who are at the AIMS Games,” says Nikki, who had been cycling to work.

“ ey’re parked on the verges, completely o the road, not causing any inconvenience at all – and it’s the only place to park because it’s so busy.

“I’m just really sh**ty that our council are doing that to all these amazing people who are here to support the AIMS Games… we’ve got these people here who are spending a whole week, spending money, having a good time and there’s

nowhere to park. ere’s not enough parking.”

Tauranga City Council regulation monitoring team leader Stuart Goodman says council parking o cers “had to issue 37 parking tickets on the rst day of the Zespri AIMS games for vehicles parked illegally along Hinau St and Maunganui Rd”.

“We know it can be frustrating for people to see visitors being ticketed, but the parking rules are there to keep our roads safe. Berm parking is not currently restricted in the area, however council is issuing tickets for vehicles parked on the footpath, tra c islands and road medians. ese are the same parking rules that apply across the country.”

Support for events

Stuart says so far council hasn’t received any calls or complaints from people who have received parking tickets during the AIMS event.

“We have received one complaint from a resident concerned about the illegal parking in the area.”

Nikki says she didn’t see any resident’s driveways blocked or bad parking. “I’d just like to see the council support these big events.

“We all know there’s not enough parking provided. I don’t see the harm and I actually thought to myself before I saw the parking wardens, how neatly and tidily everyone had parked all safe and ne.”

Georgia Minkhorst

With thanks to our participating solicitors Anderson Law Office, Abernethy Broatch Law, The Mount Lawyers, Beach Law, Fenton McFadden, Burley Castle Hawkins Lawyers, Cooney Lees Morgan, Holland Beckett, Kaimai Law Bethlehem, Keam Standen, Sharp Tudhope, Bush Forbes Lawyers, and Burley Castle Hawkins Lawyers

Cars parked on verges along Maunganui Rd.

Photo: Georgia Minkhorst.

TCC talks congestion charges talks

Road congestion charges are one step closer in Tauranga and motorists could pay $3 for a peak hour 6km trip from Bayfair in Mount Maunganui to the city centre.

If the charges aren’t introduced it would mean “economic catastrophe and terrible wellbeing for communities,” a Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency sta member warns. e Commission decided to consult on Variable Road Pricing, or congestion charges, at Monday’s Tauranga City Council meeting. TCC structure planning and strategic transport team leader Alistair Talbot says VRP could be a “considerable funding source”. e SmartTrip Variable Road Pricing Study estimates it could produce $88 million in net revenue a year by 2035, which would increase to $158m by 2048. Money earnt would be reinvested in Tauranga’s transport network to create a better roading network, more e cient public transport services and better cycling and walking facilities.

e study also shows the charges may lead to reduced congestion, more reliable travel times, reduced emissions and mode shift from people using cars to alternative modes of transport, says Alistair. Congestion charges aren’t used in NZ. Introduced in Singapore in 1975 since then cities including London and Milan have adopted the practice. A law change would be needed to implement VRP but cross party support is growing and the Government has drafted legislation. Waka Kotahi and TCC worked together on the study. e VRP would replace tolls on Takitimu Northern Link and Tauranga Eastern Link.

Pricing would change based on the time of day and

where people were accessing the road network from.

One concept in the “high level” study shows the priced network would include the State Highway ring around the Te Papa Peninsula (SH2, SH29, SH29A), SH2 and TNL from Te Puna, and the TEL.

ere would be a charge for accessing the Te Papa Peninsula that runs from Greerton to Sulphur Point and includes Tauranga’s CBD, or entering the priced network of roads and a distance based charge as well. e concept suggests a peak charge of $2 for light vehicles entering the roads then a charge of 15c/km. For a heavy vehicle this would be $5 to access the road the 38c/km. For a truck travelling the TEL to the Port on Totara St, a journey would cost $15 under this concept. Currently trucks pay a $5.60 toll for a one-way trip on the TEL.

Alistair says there are limitations with the study because it’s still at the “proof of concept” stage and further technical analysis is needed. e VRP scheme has potential to impact “people’s equity” for those on lower incomes, so the next lot of work will need to address that, says Alistair. “Technologically road pricing is viable for a city with the population density of Tauranga when considered relative to where it’s operated elsewhere in the world.”

Waka Kotahi strategy system leadership advisor Richard Hurn says: “ e enduring transport challenge particularly for cities is actually geometry and by that I mean the physical space allocated to moving people in vehicles”.

Council will consult on VRP in its 2024-2034 Long Term Plan this year.

*Read this story in full at: www.sunlive.co.nz Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air.

Feedback on the future of Keenan Road

To meet the needs of a growing city, we’re developing a plan for the future of Keenan Road Urban Growth Area in Pyes Pa.

We want to know what’s important to you in a community, and what should be prioritised when it comes to the likes of transport and open spaces.

Mounties finally meet ‘Mountie’!

e long-time mascot of Mount Maunganui Primary School has, for the rst time, visited the children it inspires.

Mountie was ‘born’ 10 years ago and taken on as the school emblem designed to give the students a sense of pride and belonging.

“ ere are seven ‘mountieisms’ that are the behaviours of a Mountie,” says principal Damien Harris.

“Critical thinking, creativity, awareness, curiosity, aumangea (grittiness), connectedness and collaboration.”

Damien says the values are instilled in the school work.

“We explicitly teach them and give the opportunity to practise and showcase them,” says Damien.

“We like the kids to think of solutions to problems so that might be creativity in mathematics, for example. eir awareness and connectedness tends to be in more social situations and we think about things like our impact on the environment. We may take kids out to plant seedlings on the sand dunes to put awareness into action.”

Mount Maunganui Primary pupils were part of a special birthday party for Mountie on Tuesday at their school, where they nally got to meet the mascot.

“ ey were so excited to meet Mountie for the rst time. It was deafening when it walked into the hall,” says Damien.

“Kids have been asking for years ‘Why doesn’t Mountie ever visit?’ So this year our Board of Trustees and PTA made it happen.”

Now, Mountie will join the kids at major events like sports days – and for Damien, as well as the oldest students at the school, it’s exciting to nally get to meet their school mascot.

“Mountie’s turning 10, so it’s a big day ‘cause when you turn 10, it’s a big number,” says 10 year-old Matilda Pierson. “It’s old, so it’s really special! is is a really great school to be part of with him by our side.”

Debbie Griffiths

To find out more or provide feedback visit: letstalk.tauranga.govt.nz/ keenanroad

Mount Maunganui Primary School student Matilda Pierson with Mountie. Photo: John Borren.

Building a club asset for decades to come

Mount Maunganui Golf Club is driving into the future with an exciting new project estimated at $2.5 million

e club is planning a stateof-the-art driving range on their golf course – recently receiving a $300,000 boost to the project from the New Zealand Community Trust.

Mount Maunganui Golf Club’s manager Michael Williams says the driving range is just one part of a greater “master plan” the club created last year.

“ is is phase one of implementing that master plan for the club by going ahead and doing the driving range rst, but we do have plans to renovate 18 holes on the golf course as well but that will be down the track a little bit.”

e club will borrow the rest of

the money to cover the shortfall for the driving range project, which is priced up at $2.5 million in total, says Michael. Although it may be costing a bit of dough, Michael says the driving range will be a club asset for decades to come. “It will be great for golfers to come and use for experience but also for people looking to learn the game as well. It’s a great starting point before you get out on the golf course and come and get some coaching or just give the game a go.”

Entertainment-style

e driving range won’t be your run of the mill set up either, says Michael. “It’ll be a short driving range, so you hit your balls into big nets for about 50 metres then each of the bays has ball tracking technology to show you where the ball would’ve ended up.”

With the technology, Michael says it will be an entertainment-

style range. “ ere will be all sorts of things you can do in there. You can practise, play virtual golf, there’s even games for kids on the technology as well where you hit your ball and try blow up a monster.

Futureproof

“It’ll be in a nice and friendly environment and basically it’s helping futureproof not only our club but I think the sport in the wider Bay of Plenty.

“We are grateful to NZCT for their grant, which is a major contribution and easily the biggest contribution we’re going to receive for this and I guess without them it just wouldn’t be a reality.”

Michael says the timeframe for the driving range is dependent on the design process and council consents. “Our early indications are we will hopefully have it open by next May-June.”

Georgia Minkhorst

TAKE BACK OUR COUNTRY

Mount Maunganui Golf Club manager Michael Williams on the course where the new driving range will be set up. Photo: John Borren.

Glenn’s 42 years of selflessness

After 42 years Glenn Williams knew it was time.

But he joked about retiring and handing over the chief re o cer’s helmet. He told his deputy: “You know it’s a good time to go when only two people in the re station hate you and not the whole 32.” He was kidding of course. is is a man who gave 42 years’ service to the volunteer re brigade, championed the cause of thousands of re ghters as United Fire Brigades Association president and rose to the rank of CFO at the Te Puke Fire Station. He carries mana. “After a professional career, then 30 years in business, my wife always says what has given me the most

ful lment, the most pleasure, is the thing I have done for nothing.”

e volunteer reman – 20 hours a week covering admin, training every Wednesday night, callouts, slave to a wailing rehouse siren, often in the dead of night –and not one minute, not one second of it paid. “I just got paid in other ways.”

Saving a building, saving property, saving a life has got to count for something. And no –he never once thought he

could have put that time to better use. On a golf course, shing, gardening. “No – never, not once.”

Te Puke Volunteer Fire Brigade’s nowretired chief re o cer Glenn Williams in full kit. Photo: John Borren.

e 1964 Leyland Albion, which Glenn Williams got to drive during his time at the Mount Maunganui Fire Station. Photo: supplied.

at could explain something.

Because despite retiring from the Te Puke Volunteer Fire Brigade last week, he still has keys to the kingdom. He’s wearing his Te Puke Fire Brigade centennial shirt like a second skin, and there’s that life honorary membership. He’s woven into the re station fabric.

In your blood

“Once re ghting is in your blood, it’s forever.” It’s de nitely in the DNA – because Dan, his university student son, is a volunteer remen at Portobello in Dunedin. It’s not immediately clear whether Dad is more proud of Dan’s PhD in Marine Sciences or 10 years as a volunteer reman. Glenn can laugh about it. Every reman has a cat up a tree yarn and that’s another laugh. e cat was stuck up a conifer, probably a Norfolk pine. “We couldn’t get a ladder to it, so we put a line around the trunk, bent it back, let it go and the cat catapulted out of the tree.” It sailed over the rescue blanket, hit the ground and wandered groggily o . Not a meow of ‘thanks’. Ungrateful cat.

Funny – but the story doesn’t re ect the true contribution this brigade makes. So far this year,

232 call-outs, nearly one a day. e tally’s up there on the front of the re house for all to see. It’ll be 300plus by year’s end. “Not so many house res these days because of the work done on re safety.” But there’s still work to do. “Medical work that’s not always well received by the old hands – the long serving guys – they say they didn’t join up to be medics, they joined to be re ghters.” Two weeks ago the four-decade vet was pumping the chest of an elderly cardiac arrest

victim. “When our truck turns up at a medical incident it means another four guys to rotate the physically-demanding CPR.”

But it’s 10 minutes before the brigade gets here, so if the victim hasn’t been getting CPR, the chances of survival are low.

“We have the odd win.” But not this latest one. Glenn is pragmatic about it. “We just regard it as inevitable for most victims.”

An impact

But it’s stressful and it does have an impact. Glen takes it home and dwells on it. “It’s someone’s loved one. Could have been one of our own family. Could have things turned out di erently?”

For the bigger, nastier events the brigade has formal debrie ngs where they bring in peer support people to assist remen emotionally through their diet of death and destruction. “ e one’s I worry about are the young ones who brush it o , ‘not a problem’ or the ‘harden up’ guys.”

Glenn has no such pretension, he carries emotional scars – some from 29 year ago. e story comes with a re ghter’s tears. “See what I mean,” he says wiping his eyes. ere was a fatal crash 2am one

morning on a long straight stretch of Te Puke Highway, known as Long Swamp.

A truck had gone over the top of a car carrying two adults and two children.

“It ripped the roof o the car. e little boy had been thrown onto the road. He was dead. e little girl was dead in the back seat of the car.” e girl was the same age as Glenn’s daughter at the time. “I just remember it so vividly.

“Just because of those two kids. All we could do is stand around and wait

for the undertaker to come...For three weeks, every night before I fell asleep, it all came ooding back.”

Now Glenn’s hook at Te Puke’s re station, where he hung his bunker coat, his boots and leggings below at the ready holds another bunker coat – Glenn’s former deputy and the new CFO, Dale Lindsay. “ e brigade will be in the best of hands.” e volunteer reman’s days of unpaid service aren’t over. He’s a sworn-in JP.

e proud retired chief re o cer Glenn Williams and his son, Dan. Photo: supplied.

Glenn Williams surrounded by the trappings of a volunteer re station. Photo : John Borren.

Hunter Wells

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After fearing he may have to say goodbye to mini golf for good at Memorial Park, Mike Head has been given the all clear that the legacy will live on – just on di erent greens.

Earlier this year the Tauranga Mini Golf owner of ve years put a call out to the community, asking whether they’d like to see mini golf remain at Memorial Park. Mike jumped to action after the time had come for council to reclaim the land his course resides on to make way for a new aquatics and recreation facility for the city.

Reinvigoration

Unsure whether the new facilities would include mini golf, Mike launched a campaign for the community to have their say. Mike says he was “absolutely wrapped” with the community’s response, receiving more than

6000 votes with a ratio of 2000to-one in favour of retaining mini golf at Memorial Park. “It’s reinvigorated the mini golf!

“Some people forgot it was here and were saying: ‘We de nitely don’t want to see it go,’ it’s an amazing result on the survey and good to see council just no nonsense,” says Mike.

e green light

Meeting with some Tauranga City councillors and council commissioners last month, Mike was thrilled to hear that mini golf will remain at the park and is permitted to build a brand new course.

TCC says general manager of city developments and partnership Gareth Wallis says mini golf is one of the many iconic and popular community attractions at Memorial Park “and we’re committed to having it remain as we plan for the park’s future”.

“Planning is still ongoing, so

it’s too soon to say where in the park mini golf may be located in the future,” says Gareth. “We will continue to work with the existing owner of the mini golf as that planning progresses over coming months and we explore potential options.”

e decision for the new mini golf’s location is expected by the end of this year, with construction beginning February 2024.

Mike says Tauranga Mini Golf is still a signi cant part of town and he plans to open the new course by Christmas 2024. “ ere’s about 150,000 people in Tauranga. We can put 30,000 people a year through the mini golf. It’s been there for 40 years so I guess every family and everybody has played there multiple times in their lifetime.

“It will be my legacy by building a lovely mini golf; and when I’m gone, it will live well past me.”

Georgia Minkhorst

Simba will simply melt your heart!

Simba is an amazing dog to be around, his doe eyes suck you in and melt your heart.

He would love a best friend to snuggle up to. He’s been out to foster so is experienced in the wider world. He’s great with other dogs and kids. Simba can be a

little cautious of new things, but after some gentle encouragement he comes right out of his shell. He is a laid-back dog but will play and want attention when he can. Simba is just a big softie and will win you over in an instant with his big oppy ears and chocolate nose. Meet Simba today! Phone the Tauranga centre on: 07 5780245. Ref: 583689.

Tauranga Mini Golf owner Mike Head will next year build a new mini golf course at Memorial Park and farewell the existing site. Photo: John Borren.

Cory coasting between Omanu and Gizzy

Cory Hutchings will be sur ng between coasts as he takes on a new role as lead sports advisor at Omanu Beach Surf Life Saving Club.

e former world surf lifesaving Ironman champion will step away from the surf of his hometown Gisborne to inject his wealth of knowledge into Omanu’s club, with its current coach deciding to move on.

He’s not completely departing the Hawke’s Bay however –he’ll be at Omanu for ve days a week and in Gizzy on weekends. “I’m looking forward to the role.

“It’ll be a bit of

travelling and will be cool being involved in the club.

“Omanu has so much potential with all the young ones coming through.”

Cory says he’s not an analytical person and is more hands-on. “I don’t spend time behind computers. I like to be in the water, on the ocean and at the beach, and that’s the sort of thing Omanu was looking for to support the role.”

As lead sports advisor, Cory says he’ll be nurturing a culture of love for the surf and enjoyment of the sport within the club. “I think that’s important so it’s not just a chore for

[the kids] training. It’s actually that they want to be a part of something bigger in future.

“ e awesome thing about my job is you can get involved and have a quite a big impact on kids coming though, so you see kids grow and develop from little 10-year-olds into potential world champions. at’s a pretty stimulating thought and that’s my drug really.”

So, will Cory be torn be torn between the two coasts?

“I think most people would know when I say Gisborne has got probably the best surf in NZ so like Gisborne’s got the best surf.” But Omanu o ers atmosphere. “ ere’s a wicked vibe there. Everything going well I would look to move to the Mount full-time next year!”

Georgia Minkhorst

Cory Hutchings will bring his knowledge and experience to Omanu Beach Surf Life Saving Club as lead sports advisor.

Accolades for locally distilled gin continue to pour in

A Tauranga-based distillery, Clarity Distilling Company, has yet again proven itself as a standout in the world of gin, clinching the top honour of ‘Best in Class’ and a prestigious gold medal at the Junipers New Zealand Gin Awards. is latest achievement adds to an already impressive list of accolades for Clarity Distilling Company. Just months prior, the company garnered the title of ‘Best in Class’ for their Clarity 2023 Gin at the New Zealand Spirits Awards.

eir Clarity Dry Gin also triumphed with a resounding ‘Double Gold’ in San Francisco in March, solidifying their international reputation for exceptional craftsmanship.

July saw yet another triumph for Clarity as both the Clarity 2023 Gin and Clarity Dry Gin struck gold at the prestigious Australian Gin Awards, marking a series of remarkable victories throughout the year.

Co-founders Stephanie Downer and George White are overwhelmed with joy and gratitude for the recognition their creations have received. “We are incredibly proud and humbled by these awards. It’s truly heart-warming to see our dedication to producing exceptional gin being acknowledged on a global scale.”

e success of Clarity Distilling Company can be attributed to their unwavering commitment to quality and innovation in the world of distillation, say the co-founders. As such, their remarkable gins have consistently impressed experts and enthusiasts alike.

As Clarity Distilling Company continues to make its mark on the global stage, enthusiasts of gin can look forward to future innovations from this exceptional distillery. With a series of well-deserved gold medals, it’s evident Clarity’s dedication to excellence is a key factor in their ongoing success.

Clarity Distilling Company co-founders George White and Stephanie Downer at the NZ Spirits Awards in May. Photo: supplied.

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*DriveawayPricefrom$35,990,48monthterm,45,000kmallowance,10.95%p.a.fixedinterestrate,$431establishment fee,$7.39PPSRfee,optionalfinalpaymentof$18,055tokeepthecar,totalloanrepayments$48,641.99. ResponsiblelendingcriteriaandT&Csapply.OfferincludesDriveAwaycosts

CITROEN

*MSRPfrom$38,990,48Monthterm,30,000kmallowance,6.95%p.a.fixedinterestrate,$136establishmentfee,$7.39PPSRfee, optionalfinalpaymentof$17,545.50tokeepthecar,totalloanrepayments,$39,283.39.ResponsiblelendingcriteriaandT&Csapply. OfferexcludesORCof$1,500.

Thanks to the amazing generosity of our donors, the Acorn Foundation have distributed over $3.3M this year

*Tagged recipients are selected by donors

**Untagged recipients are selected by the Acorn Distributions Committee

Hope Family Funerals now in Te Puna

After four years of planning and preparation, Hope Family Funerals has relocated its funeral home to 2 Loop Rd, Te Puna, to a facility formerly known as ‘Charlemagne Lodge’.

e decision to move the family business was motivated by the desire to have a space that could hold larger gatherings at the funeral home.

When the former wedding venue, Charlemagne Lodge, came on the market in 2019 it became the perfect opportunity to make this a reality.

Since then, the Hope Family team has made considerable improvements to the premises

to prepare for its new role.

“I am proud of the special place we have here to celebrate the life of loved ones, and of our relaxed and dedicated team working hard to assist families at a sad time in their lives,” says Hope Family Funerals owner Tony Hope.

“We are excited to share the new premises with the public and to welcome families here to say goodbye to their loved ones in a beautiful and relaxing space.”

Hope Family Funeral is hosting an open day on Saturday, September 16, from 10am-3pm for the public to have the opportunity to see the new premises and chat to the Hope Family Funerals team. All are welcome to attend.

Offerings of sympathy and support

When a friend or family member loses someone close, we often want to give them a gift to show our sympathy and support.

And sometimes, depending on how you know the grieving person or the person who has passed, it is hard to know what’s appropriate – or what would be a kind gesture in one of the most di cult times that we all must face in life at some point.

So here’s some ideas, to show your sympathy to someone who has lost someone special and is beginning their journey of grieving.

Flowers are an obvious choice as they symbolise the feelings and emotions we share. Plants are also popular and can be planted outdoors as a memorial.

Photos, either printed into an album or put in a frame, help to remember a loved one, and self-care gifts such as a bath set, candle or book o er comfort during a time of grief. Some guests to funerals or family gatherings after death

give out little tea candles with a label on them saying: ‘In Loving Memory of... the deceased’s full name, date of birth, and date of passing’. ey encourage people to take them home and light them when they think of the person. A small tribute but one that can keep on giving to those grieving. When someone passes away, dropping o a cooked or ready-made meal or some groceries is always helpful. Acts like these can lessen the load of thinking about the mundane chores of life when going through a hard time.

Another way you can show your care is to opt to make a charitable donation in the departed person’s memory. Did the person support a particular charity? Maybe this is something you could do to honour them? ere are many other priceless ways of showing your support too. Do some household chores, drop in every now and then for a cuppa, have a weekly phone call. Little acts can make such a big di erence to someone who is grieving.

is something you could do to

Hope Family Funerals owner Tony Hope.

Greerton blossoms with festivity

In a burst of vibrant colour and cultural celebration, Greerton Village is gearing up to again host the much-anticipated Cherry Blossom Festival, promising a delightful fusion of artistry, music and culinary delights.

Set against the backdrop of nature’s ephemeral beauty with cherry blossom trees adorning the village, this year’s festival from 9am-2pm on Saturday, September 16, is poised to be another unforgettable experience.

From enchanting street performers to the harmonious melodies of live music, the tantalising aromas of diverse food vendors, to the gleaming classics of a custom car show, and the nostalgiainducing vintage clothes market to the joyous school gala, this event promises to captivate the senses and bring the community together in a kaleidoscope of festivities.

“ is is one of the most anticipated events of the year, where people come from all over, to celebrate the start of spring in Greerton,” says Greerton Village Mainstreet chair Tony Ryan.

In the Greerton Community Hall, a vintage market and clothes swap will be held, combining the best of e Little Big Markets and Gladrags.

At Greerton Village School, the school gala

Mystery book found in Greerton awaits owner

A religious book believed to be more than 110 years old has been found in Greerton –and St Mary Immaculate Church member

Dermot Blake hopes to see it returned to its rightful owner.

Dermot discovered the book three weeks ago while walking his dog in Greerton’s wetlands. “I found it on the arm of a bench park seat and I thought somebody must have been resting awhile, had a little look through the book and forgotten it and walked away.”

e pocket-sized book is called ‘Garden of the Soul – A manual of devotion’. Written in both English and Latin, the book appears to have been published in 1910.

Dermot thinks it’s either a Bible, prayer book or a hymn book. What’s more, Dermot – who is in his eighties – says: “I would’ve read that when

I was back home in Ireland as a boy going to church and it’s kind of a reminder in life when you read things like that and they come back to you 70-80 years later”.

“It did touch me when you think of yourself as a little boy and you sing hymns. e book just revived a lot of pleasant memories,” says Dermot.

promises to be a monster fair full of stalls, entertainment, delicious food, and features a school ra e.

In the village Al Dawson & the Wildcats will entertain showgoers, while along Chadwick Rd the Streets & Customs Club members will display their precious classic and specialty cars. eir Show & Shine will enable people to meander along

and admire the cars. Plenty of carparking will be available at Tauranga Racecourse providing an easy stroll up to Greerton Village, which is about to blossom with life – and this celebration is at the heart of it all. Greerton Village Cherry Blossom Festival is 9am-2pm on Saturday, September 16.

With this personal signi cance, Dermot was tempted to keep the book, however he says: “It must be a family thing and that’s more important than anything”.

than anything”.

He believes the book is likely to have been passed down through generations and is being missed. “It’s not just one owner. It’s probably 100 owners, a whole family and thousands of di erent moments in life.”

If you knowing anything about this book or the owner, please email: newsroom@thesun.co.nz

Georgia Minkhorst

Entertainers at the Greerton Village Cherry Blossom Festival will include Elsa, Barbie, and Woody and Jessie from ‘Toy Story’. Photo: supplied.

Home &

Colour spring with flowers

September, and the rst month of spring – but it still pays to be a little cautious when planting anything frost tender.

One of the standout plants growing around the complex I live in is ‘Plum Gorgeous’ with its deep burgundy foliage and bright magenta fringe. It owers spring and autumn. It can grow to about 1.5m high and 2m wide but with judicious pruning can easily be kept to half that size. A shrub with no apparent major problems, it will happily live in full sun or part shade.

A perennial that’s received some major make-overs in the last few years is the Alstroemeria or Peruvian Lily – now available in a large range of colours and blends and with interesting patterns of ecks on the petals. Some varieties are compact enough to grow in pots or the front of a border. Young plants can be attractive to slugs and snails, so use a pet-friendly bait sparingly. Alstroemerias make excellent cut owers.

Savvy Kiwis can compare power providers and plans

Hundreds of Kiwis have saved more than $5 million after switching power providers in the past year.

“ at’s $5 million that will stay in the pockets of people paying for power, rather than bolstering the pro ts of electricity retailers,” says Powerswitch manager Paul Fuge.

ey’re long-lasting when placed in a vase indoors where you can admire their detail, but pull stems from the plant’s base rather than cutting to encourage more owers. Another plant that’s been making its presence known durng winter is the climber –Pyrostegia Venusta, or Flame Vine. Its vibrant display of orange tubular clusters will keep on owering well into spring and the evergreen foliage has hidden many a boring wall or fence. ‘Venusta’ means handsome or charming, so if you have some fence room to spare – plant one!

Powerswitch allows you to compare your power plan with others.

Powerswitch is a free and independent comparison service run by Consumer NZ that helps people check they’re on the best plan to meet the needs of their household.

Powerswitch data shows people who switch providers can typically save $385 a year on their power bill. “We want to see even more people using the Powerswitch service to check whether they could be getting a better deal,” says Paul. “When more people switch, it generates competition in the market and forces retailers to sharpen their prices to hold on to their customers.”

Bamboozling paradox

Paul says in Powerswitch’s latest energy survey, 62 per cent of people say they’re concerned about their electricity costs, and 19 per cent of households report they had experienced nancial di culty paying their monthly power bill in the last 12 months.

“Despite the savings available, the number of people changing provider remains stubbornly low. e paradox is bamboozling,” says Paul.

According to data from the Electricity Authority, only around six per cent of households changed provider in the last year, excluding people moving house.”

For every one per cent of households that switch electricity provider, Paul says there will be collective savings of around $7 million a year.

Minutes to check

Consumer estimates more than 40 per cent of households have been with the same power provider for more than ve years. e big four retailers and their subsidiaries provide power to more than eight in 10 households across the country.

“It only takes a matter of minutes to check, switch and then save. It really could not be simpler,” says Paul. “We want as many people as possible to check to see if they could be saving.

“Together we can bring down the country’s power prices.” Check out Powerswitch today at: www.powerswitch.org.nz

Home &

Less to claim with fire extinguishers on hand

Fire extinguishers may be a common xture in the workplace, but how common are they in the home?

State Insurance NZ data shows there’s been a 16 per cent increase in the number of re claims between summer and winter during the last three years. And only three per cent of house re claims received by State involved the use of a re extinguisher – and on average these claims were nearly $50,000 less.

So do Tauranga residents have a re extinguisher at home? And if so, do they know how to use it? e Sun recently put the questions to passerbys in Downtown Tauranga.

CBD worker Jock Nicholson, and Timothy Allan don’t have re extinguishers in their homes but they do have smoke detectors and re alarms. Timothy says he has a very good “nest re alarm” that detects di erent gases. “ e level of sensors they’ve got are greater than a standard re alarm and it’s synced to your phone.” Both are con dent they’d know how to wield an extinguisher in a re event. “I’ve done health and safety training at work,” says Jock.

PTASS

Using a re extinguisher involves the ‘PTASS’ method – Pull the pin, Test squirt the extinguisher, Aim the nozzle low at the re’s base, Squeeze the trigger slowly and evenly, then Sweep the extinguisher side-to-side covering

the areas where the re has spread. Having run companies that manufactured lithium-ion batteries, Timothy says the type of re extinguishers people use in the event of a re is key too. “A lot of people have lithium-ion batteries in a lot of di erent places around their homes these days. If you put a powder extinguisher on that you may as well just hit it with a wet bus ticket because it will do absolutely nothing.” He says CO2 foam extinguishers are appropriate for res involving lithium batteries.

Con dent users

Out of 10 people e Weekend Sun spoke to, ve answered ‘Yes’ to keeping a re extinguisher in their home. Tash Owen keeps a re extinguisher in her home and is con dent using one.

“I did my skippers course and to drive commercial boats where you have to do re training.

“I didn’t have a re extinguisher at my house before that.” Alex Te Paa also has a re extinguisher in his home and has given it a test drive.

“We did some wiring in the house and then before we turned everything back on we were like: ‘Let’s see if this works’ and we went outside and shot it,” says Alex.

All in all, keeping an appropriate re extinguisher for the area it is in within your home and knowing how to con dently use it for small res, can help keep you and your home safe.

Jock Nicholson.

Timothy Allan.

Alex Te Paa.

Tash Owen.

Photos: John Borren Georgia Minkhorst

The costs outweigh its benefits! The ideal location....

Re: ‘Look at domain space in 50-year lens! ( e Weekend Sun, letters page 32, August 11).

Tauranga Domain is the last green space available in a future planned high density living city centre. Magni cent mature trees provide shade and oxygen, an absolute pleasure to behold, walk or sit beneath. A world class athletics track, lawn tennis courts that take many years to establish.

Why another stadium when we have Baypark Stadium for rugby playing, purpose built with roof, exhibition spaces and ample carparking?

e proposed Boutique Stadium can only hold 7000 permanent seats, and a further temporary 8000 seats on the roof and with no carparking. Costs outweigh its bene ts according to the Boutique Stadium’s own Preliminary Business

*TCC’s Commission Chair AnneTolley responds to the stadium-related letters: e Commission believes the community stadium concept has su cient merit for it to progress to full community consultation through the draft 2024-2034 Long Term Plan consultation process, which will take place in November/December this

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

Case. e Boutique Stadium will cost more than $220 million dollars with a 50 per cent probability that it will cost more. Each year the Boutique Stadium will run at a loss of $15 million, which ratepayers will be liable for.

All councils have signed a LGFA (Local Government Funding Agency) agreement putting ratepayers up as surety and collateral to guarantee the city's debt. If, or WHEN, the TCC becomes bankrupt, it is the ratepayers’ homes that will be taken by the central banks? Ratepayers have not consented to be guarantors and would evict the council if they knew this.

is may be the nal catalyst to claim back our city from greedy corporate property developers and unelected, agenda-driven Commissioners!

Margaret Colmore, Oropi.

year. We encourage everyone with a view about the proposal to consider the information that will be provided in the LTP consultation document and then make a submission for the commissioners to consider.

Re: News article ‘Familiarising with the forefathers’, page 18-19, e Weekend Sun, August 11.

It is tting that ex-Mayor Tunks should be remembered by a postage stamp of a reserve at the top of Elizabeth St. He was a second generation colonial who prospered by helping our community form. at was almost exactly the reward for Te Mete Raukawa and Potaua Tangitu. ey were 30 generation old colonials who welcomed new immigrants and their skills to this fruitful land. ey and their Pirirakau relatives were left with a postage stamp of land too. Rihari Paikatoa, Gate Pa.

Re: ‘Look at domain space in 50-year lens! ( e Weekend Sun, letters page 32, August 11).

Watching cricket at the magni cent Bay Oval, an experience only compromised by the very evident salt works next door, it occurred to me that its location would be ideal for Tauranga’s boutique stadium, a home ground for the BOP Steamers and venue for concerts and music festivals.

On the other side of Totara St is what I understand is the coal importing shed, a facility that should no longer be needed when coal- red Huntly becomes obsolete, so an ideal relocation for the salt works being port-side.

Bay Oval has a capacity of 10,000,

so a boutique stadium of similar size should work logistically. Sharing facilities with Bay Oval, along the shared boundary, would allow permanent toilet/hospitality/ bars to be used by both venues. With the high-performance centre, the Steamers, NZ Sevens, Tauranga Hockey, and other sporting codes already located in Blake Park, there would be an opportunity for further synergies. I don’t know if this is a new idea, or has been considered before and rejected, but if not, shouldn’t the council, Port of Tauranga, and Dominion Salt sit down together and work out if a legacy project in this location could be a possibility, and a win for Tauranga!

Peter Haywood, Otūmoetai.

Re: e alternative transport push in Tauranga City. In my house there are ve adults and one teen.

e tradesman can’t use alternative transport with tools and large installations to move about.

e home care worker – with a few health restrictions – also can’t use a bus or bike to get from house-tohouse in a timely manner. Another is in concrete production and with 4am starts and a bad ankle – so no good to bus or bike.

I work rurally with many part-time jobs and errands for all, and there’s no buses where I go.

e teen uses the bus now, but as a wee one certainly could not be relied upon to catch a bus safely – so for ve years I was part of the school tra c, dropping o and picking up around my other commitments. Only one adult could currently sacri ce their car use.

We are asking the 9am-5pm workers with no ‘before’ or ‘after’

work commitments, to be the ones to sacri ce their car usage so others can necessarily, be road hogs. As humanity is inherently sel sh, and many in Tauranga are elderly, I can’t envision this initiative taking o – no matter how safe the city makes it.

Andrea McIntyre, Ohauiti. *TCC director of transport

Brendan Bisley responds: Tauranga is one of the most car-dependent cities in New Zealand. We realise that for a lot of people – including tradespeople and businesses – using a private vehicle is a necessity so we’re targeting the 10 to 15 per cent of the population who have a choice to walk, cycle, scooter, skateboard or catch a bus. If we can get those people on to a di erent mode of transport, the other 85-90 per cent will have signi cantly less congestion and people can move around a lot better. We’re hoping choosing a di erent mode of transport will become easier with improved connections and better bus services.

I can’t envision this alternative transport initiative taking off A very fitting tribute!

More signs of the times

As far as I’m aware there is no collective noun for signs, a shame since every roadside berm is now littered with electioneering billboards.

I’m not a fan. Any trip now entails a succession of retouched disingenuous smiles and simplistic market-tested slogans.

Once upon a time you could at least rely upon imaginative gra ti, vandals who if nothing else had a sense of humour. No more.

Are falling literacy standards to blame? Driving home this morning I saw Christopher Luxon’s beaming face, over which someone had written in huge letters: ‘Liers!’ Seriously?

I was also urged to take action several times by the bloke who once represented Tauranga in Parliament. His suggestion?

‘Let’s take our country back’. is left me slightly shaken. Did someone steal the country away while I wasn’t looking? Did they sneak it o to Australia while I dozed? Or did someone tow it down to Antarctica to help with global warming? Fortuitously, after a quick check of the GPS, I discovered the country is still here.

So did some cunning foreigner take over during the three years since Mr Peters failed to be elected, without us noticing? If so, damn straight Winnie, let’s demand it back. But it’s tricky to spot which speci c foreign threat it is. I realise British tourists can be somewhat overbearing but it can’t just be that. I’ve spotted a lot more sushi restaurants recently, and the Dutch are a bit rude on occasion – could they be the problem? Has our country been secretly traded for a block of Gouda?

Internal a airs

Maybe not. Perhaps Mr P is hinting at culprits closer to home. Have a bunch of New Zealanders gone and taken New

Zealand from, er, another bunch of New Zealanders? at’s a worry. Does it only belong to one of those bunches?

Perhaps Winston is suggesting that there are ‘good’ New Zealanders – who presumably once ‘had’ the country and now want it back – and ‘bad’ ones, who apparently took it, even if it’s a bit hard to spot exactly what they took and where they put it.

Or, just perhaps, however much you grin on your billboard, using a divisive

headed folk to help during the day, in the early evening and at performances. Having volunteered at festivals myself, I can a rm it as a fun and worthwhile experience: if you’re interested email: info@taurangafestival.co.nz. And let’s dip a toe into the extensive programme...

Put the gun down

Top of my list is faux-country legend Wilson Dixon, “the greatest country singer Cripple Creek has ever produced”. His new show is called ‘Put the Gun Down Jethro’ and promises a fresh set of cowboy tales and songs of navigating through the pandemic-denying QAnon-believing alt-rightleaning members of his own family.

fear-mongering slogan doesn’t really bene t anybody except those seeking to bene t from divisive fear-mongering. I’m reminded of American politician Bob Roberts, who rewrote Woody Guthrie’s ‘ is land is your land/this land is my land’ as the almost-identical-but-notquite ‘ is land was made for me’.

And with a smooth leap we have segued into music.

First up, a shout-out for volunteers to help at the Arts Festival, which runs from October 19-29. ey need keen, level-

Sooner than that, next Friday in fact – on September 15 –sees Andrew London return to the Bay yet again. Andrew has been here over the years in many combos, from Hot Club Sandwich to his eponymous trio and a duo with bassplaying wife Kirsten. is time it’s the Too Many Chiefs quartet, along with Rob Joass of Wellington band Hobnail, Wayne Mason – famous as the writer of ‘Nature’ and a damn ne keyboard player – and Charlotte Yates, most known for her Baxter project, a compilation album of James K Baxter’s poetry set to music. She has since completed similar projects honouring Hone Tuwhare, Witi Ihimaera and Katherine Mans eld. ey come together as Too Many Chiefs once or twice a year to share songs and stories from the road in a range of styles, from blues and jazz to country and folk. It’s a fun show, brought to you by the Katikati Folk Club, at e Arts Junction: members $20; non-members $25; 7.30pm start.

Across

6. He is a musician, singer & songwriter (4,6)

8. Small (4)

9. Go away (4)

10. Native tree (5)

11. Money (4)

12. Men of the cloth (9)

16. Maori chief (9)

20. Ignore (4)

22. Countryside (5)

23. Disobey (4)

24. Tramp (4)

25. Prime minister

1957-1960 (6,4)

Down

1. Call off (6)

2. Indication (7)

3. Game (6)

4. Stupid (6)

Too

A right royal occasion for our men!

In its fourth year of supporting the Prostate Cancer Foundation NZ, Steampunk Tauranga will host yet another Blue Do this month to raise

money for a good cause.

As a nod to this year’s Coronation of King Charles III, the September 16 event theme is a Royal Blue Do. Steampunk Tauranga member Lindsey Morgan aka ‘Lady Hannah Dashary Buckle’ says the group is not a charity but a group of friends looking to raise money and awareness.

“We have friends who are prostate cancer sufferers… we put [Blue Dos] on because we’ve got survivors, and we’ve also got people who are affected by it like their dads who have had prostate cancer.”

Stigma silliness

A dress-up event, Lindsey’s expecting gowns, gloves, tiaras, crowns, military, dignitaries and medals to flood Tauranga Yacht & Powerboat Club. “The silliness of the Blue Dos is more about ‘Look it’s silly not to get the check!’ “There’s still the stigma attached

to testing for prostate cancer but the initial testing is blood… and if that comes back with some anomaly, then yes further

in the family is an indicator, and I just want to get the message out there that it’s not this taboo thing. If found early enough you can receive treatment that will enable you to overcome the cancer so you can be a cancer survivor … we don’t want our men suffering.”

Chances

Lindsey says prostate cancer becomes a numbers game as men age. “The older you get, the more likely you are of getting prostate cancer.

investigations would need to take place.”

Lindsey says too many dads, uncles, brothers, husbands and

“It really is a percentage thing so at 50 years old you have a 50-50 chance, at 60 years a 60 per cent chance at 70, a 70 per cent chance...”

The Royal Blue Do starts 7pm on Saturday, September 16 at

Free chance to fall in love with tennis

It’s time to come and play some tennis at the annual Love Tennis event this Sunday, September 10, from 10am-4pm.

The courts at six Tauranga clubs are ready for adults and kids to have a go! It’s a fun, easy opportunity for everyone to experience what a great game tennis is, says Tennis WBOP manager Sussa Bailey.

“Tennis is a sport for all ages and abilities, and Love Tennis is the perfect time to find out more about what our local clubs can offer. Heaps of fun, no experience necessary and it’s totally free,” says Sussa.

This event is open to all tennis players – whether you want to learn, used to play tennis or are an experienced player. “Life is busy, and we have new ways for people to engage with tennis, including a casual ‘book a court system’, as well as traditional membership options.

“We are always welcoming and inclusive for new players to join in, either casual or membership.

“We’ll have music playing and a free sausage sizzle.

Mount Maunganui TC – Blake Park,. See: www.clubspark.kiwi/mtmaunganui

Omokoroa TC – Western Avenue. See: www.omokoroatennis.com

Otumoetai TC – Bellevue Park, 77 Windsor Rd. See: www.otumoetaitennis.co.nz

Papamoa TC – Gordon Spratt Reserve. See: www.clubspark.kiwi/PapamoaTennisClub

Tauranga Lawn TC – Tauranga Domain. See: www.taurangalawntennisclub.org.nz

Steampunk ladies Lindsey Morgan, Leone Turner and Robyn Dixon ready for the Royal Blue Do. Photo: John Borren.

Papamoa Tennis Club is welcoming, inclusive and diverse. Photo: supplied.

Festival of climate action

Envirohub has unveiled plans for a Climate Action Festival set to sweep across the Western Bay of Plenty this week in a wave of green enthusiasm.

With an inspiring line-up of renowned speakers, thought-provoking webinars, captivating movies and a delectable array of locally-sourced cuisine, this festival promises to be a pivotal inspirational moment in the ongoing global and local e ort to combat climate change.

From September 10-17, the spotlight on climate action will shine in a way that’s full of hope and optimism – and anyone can dive in, says festival coordinator Milly McHardie.

“We believe that by bringing people together under the banner of climate action, we can create a ripple e ect of positive change that extends far beyond the Bay of Plenty,” says Milly.

Waikato University will host a speakers’ forum at 6pm on September 15. Rina Te Rehina Walkler from Ngapeke Permaculture, Youth Climate

Forum & FutureFit ambassador Karlia Tayllor, Tourism Bay of Plenty’s Stacey Linton, and Laura Robichaux from Beca will share information and perspectives.

Daily webinars with Te Whatu Ora, TCC, WBOPDC, and BOPRC will address the connection between climate change, human health and wellbeing, and how to take part in building a more low-carbon, resilient future.

In Waihi and Katikati the movie ‘2040’ by lmmaker Damon Gameau will screen.

Damon travels the world in search of new approaches and solutions to climate change, o ering an optimistic view.

Keen to eat and drink green for the planet? Head to local eateries for a delicious menu that supports climate action, whether it is plant-based, locallysourced, organic or seasonal.

Get ready to be inspired, educated and entertained at this intersection of ecoconsciousness and community spirit! For more information, go to: envirohub.org.nz

Motorhome and caravan show!

e NZMCA Motorhome, Caravan & Leisure Show, is at Mystery Creek in Hamilton on September 22-24.

With more than 230 exhibitors, there are your favourite motorhomes and caravans, with exhibitors lling two pavilions and two huge accessory marquees and huge outside exhibitor sites.

Buy an all new ‘Super Fan Bag’, full of products from some of the exhibitors and

access to the super fan lounge – purchase online with your tickets or at the show o ce while stocks last.

Make a weekend of it and stay at New Zealand’s largest event ‘park and stay’ for only $10, and purchase a multi day pass, which gives you unlimited access during the three days for $35.

ere is ample free carparking available as well. One day tickets are $18, with under 16s gaining free with an adult. Get your tickets today at: nzmotorhomeshow. co.nz

e show will be open from 9am-5pm on Friday, September

22 and Saturday, September 23; and 9am-4pm on e Weekend Sun has two double passes for the NZMCA Motorhome, Caravan & Leisure Show to give away to two lucky readers who can tell us how much it costs to stay at the ‘park and stay’? www.sunlive.co.nz under the Competitions tab. Entries must be received by

10 - 17 SEPTEMBER

10 - 17 SEPTEMBER

10 - 17 SEPTEMBER

GUEST SPEAKERS LOCAL EATERY PROMOS WEBINARS MOVIE SCREENINGS

GUEST SPEAKERS LOCAL EATERY PROMOS WEBINARS MOVIE SCREENINGS

GUEST SPEAKERS LOCAL EATERY PROMOS WEBINARS MOVIE SCREENINGS

Find out what’s on near you at envirohub.org.nz

Find out what’s on near you at envirohub.org.nz

Find out what’s on near you at envirohub.org.nz

Climate Action Festival coordinator Millie McHardie.

Photo: John Borren

deceased builder funeral services

public notices

PUBLIC NOTICE OF RIGHT TO DEMAND A POLL ON ELECTORAL SYSTEM

Notice is given under section 28(1) of the Local Electoral Act 2001, that the Western Bay of Plenty District Council has resolved that the First Past the Post electoral system will be used for the 2025 and 2028 general elections of the Western Bay of Plenty District Council. Electors of the Western Bay of Plenty District Council have the right to demand a poll on the electoral system to be used at the next two triennial general elections (2025 and 2028) of the Western Bay of Plenty District Council. Should a valid demand for a poll be received by 11 December 2023, a poll will be held on whether the First Past the Post electoral system or Single Transferable Voting electoral system will be used for the next triennial general elections (2025 and 2028) and any associated elections of the Western Bay of Plenty District Council.

A valid demand for a poll must be:

• Made in writing.

• Signed by at least 5 percent of eligible electors of the Western Bay of Plenty District Council. This will require a minimum of 1,934 elector signatures.

• Delivered by no later than 5pm, Monday 11 December 2023, to Head Office – Barkes Corner Office – 1484 Cameron Road, Tauranga 3143

Every elector who signs a demand must also set out in it their full name and the address for which they are qualified as an elector of the Western Bay of Plenty District Council.

houses wanted

BAYPARK TO BAYFAIR LINK OVERNIGHT CLOSURES OF MAUNGANUI ROAD

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency wishes to advise of the following upcoming overnight road closures:

Tuesday 12 September to Friday 15 September (from approximately 7pm to 6am each night)

Maunganui Road northbound from opposite Exeter Street to Bayfair roundabout – a signposted detour via the Bayfair flyover, SH2 north, the Golf Road roundabout and SH2/ Maunganui Road south will apply.

• Sunday 17 September to Monday 18 September (from approximately 7pm to 6am each night)

Maunganui Road northbound from Bayfair roundabout to opposite Concord Avenue – a signposted detour via Maunganui Road southbound, SH2/SH29A Te Maunga interchange, SH29A roundabout and the Bayfair flyover 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 local residents for their patience. Find out more at nzta.govt.nz/baylink

2023

Wanted for removal Great prices offered Call today: 07 847 1760 0 7 5 4 3 4 7 8 0 | l e g a cy f u n e ra l s c o n z @legacyfuneralsnz Keep the story alive.

Carla Jonasen Embalmer

tauranga

83 CHRISTOPHER STREET, Tauranga. Saturday 9th September

7.30am – 12.30pm. CDs & player, Antiques Tools & Linen. Electrics, China & Clothes. Furniture, Pots & Pans

annual book sale

TAURANGA RACECOURSE. Books and jigsaws wanted for Tauranga Harbour City Lions 10th, 11th & 12th November Book Sale. Drop o 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 call phone 021 064 5360

bible digest

Surely, LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield car for sale

2011 BMW 116i for sale - new shape, 79,000 KMs. New WOF and rego. $11,000 ONO Call Sophie on 027 934 0575 courses

SENIORNET OPEN/ REGISTRATION DAY Correction to last weeks advertised date. Meet the coaches and discuss courses ph 075771912 or www. taurangaseniornet.co.nz Tuesday September 26th 10am-2pm. Learning Centre, Building number 70, Historic Village.

curriculum vitae

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

gardening

ABLE GARDENER, experienced, e cient, knowledgeable, highly quali ed. Maintenance, pruning, hedges, shrubs, roses; disease/

pest control, lifestyle blocks, garden renovations; design & plant. Ph Tita 027 654 8781 or a/h 542 0120

HANDYMAN HOME & GARDEN

SERVICES tree pruning, weeding, hedges, water blasting, home maintenance, fence painting at a ordable rates Ph Philip 027

655 4265

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

livestock

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

369 6269

Churches Active In Our Community

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

lost & found

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

FOUND CAT, Tabby, Female, approximately 5 months old, Papamoa Beach. Ref 586432

sewing repairs

REPAIRS AND ALTERATIONS to adults and kids clothing, and knitwear repairs, 30+ years specialising in Knitwear. Ph Robyn 07 578 6861

trades & services

BUILDING MAINTENANCE Decks, fencing, repairs, restores, and basic building maintenance, 30 years + in the building trade. Contact Max text or call 027 284 9436

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

situations vacant wanted

“It is obvious to me.”

“My brothers and sisters of this world are having the same experience with their own faiths and the scriptures they follow.”

Over the eons, these di erences have been the cause of much dissention and atrocity in human society, and created reason for humans to be divided; making brotherhood-sisterhood of humankind seemingly impossible.

In Interfaith, we practise the spiritually and psychologically growthful exercise – while not minimising our own faith at all – of clearing space within our heart and being, to lovingly and respectfully accommodate others of di erent faiths. We create a non-judgemental space for people of di erent faith paths to meet together and share

experiences of their faiths and their lives, thus establishing quality enriching friendships.

It is uplifting and very liberating. What we discover along the way is that we share more similarities than di erences, and dissention abates. e world is calling for the Interfaith mood. We believe our role as your Interfaith Council is more important now than ever before, and would like your help in shaping how we head into the future.

We are in the process of developing a strategic plan for the next three to ve years. If you’d like to be a part of this, email us at: tmifc2014@gmail.com

“I am convinced that my faith is the absolute truth. ere are statements in the scripture that I follow which con rm it.