The Weekend Sun - 17 November 2023

17 November 2023, Issue 1186

Wave warriors!

Mount Maunganui teenagers Anna Brock and Tao Mouldey are frothing as they prepare to take on the world at this month’s ISA World Junior Surfing Championship in Brazil. But the talented wave warriors

need a little extra bit of help to get there.

Having dominated the national junior circuit in recent seasons, Anna, aged 18, and 15-year-old Tao have had to self-fund their international campaign, amidst studying

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and training. It should all be worth it, however, as the Bay Boardriders stars leave home today, November 17, for the first leg of their world titles crusade. Read their story on page 13. Photo: Jamie Troughton/Dscribe Media.

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The Weekend Sun is published every Friday and distributed throughout the Western Bay of Plenty from Waihi Beach, through Katikati, Tauranga, Mount Maunganui, Papamoa and Te Puke and available to collect at many stand locations throughout the area. For a full list of stand locations see https://theweekendsun.co.nz/stand-locations.html Produced by Sun Media Ltd, an independent and locally owned company based at 1 The Strand, Tauranga.

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The Honours List of ‘Bad-assed’ birds I’ve watched the Northern Royal Albatross surf the breezes off windswept Taiaroa Head.

Exhilarating stuff.

Up to 12kg and three metres from wingtip to wingtip, they don’t even have to flap to fly – suspended on the wind by their aerodynamics. As good as any air show.

It was one of my two contenders for Forest & Bird’s Bird of the Century title.

The other was the Tui – because I stop and seek him out whenever I hear his song.

The orchestral bird, the bird with the external voice boxes. How did that evolve? Whose wonderful idea was that? And I’ll listen to the Tui go through his extraordinarily complex repertoire before he engages in some daredevil aerobatics.

The Tui is the complete act!

But this is not about birds that capture hearts and minds. And votes. This is about ‘bad-assed birds’ – birds that irritate, annoy, anger and exasperate. Birds that would have you reaching for your semi-auto. Boom! Blown away in a shower of feathers, bits of beak and entrails. Gotcha!

Pukeko

The first contender for our ‘Bad-assed Bird of Century’ is the Pukeko. Let’s not get sentimental here – don’t buy into that ‘beautiful, blue-purple plumage’ nonsense, or the name, because it doesn’t even belong.

It’s just a swamp hen, a swamp rat, an illegal immigrant thought to have landed here from Australia 1000 years ago. They don’t pass our character test so should be rounded up, slapped with a reverse Section 501 and bundled back to the convict settlement in chains, where they belong.

They’re considered an agricultural or garden pest – ripping up and eating vegetables and crops. One wag suggested Pukeko are evil. “They can take down a man and be happy about it.”

A few years ago a lovely Maori guy wisely observed: “You never see two Pukeko on its own, you always see one together”. He chuckled as he watched this silly Pakeha try to figure it. I still look out for a Pukeko

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on its own. The good thing is Pukeko are listed as a game species. So the ones we don’t deport back to Australia we can hunt under licence during duck shooting season.

There’s also the popular recipe for Pukeko – you put the bird and a stone in a pot and boil it for two days. Then you throw away the Pukeko and eat the stone. Nothing good ever comes of a Pukeko.

Lorikeets and Rosellas

Apart from crying, cheating cricketers and crap rugby teams, Australia also does very well at dumping its fauna where it’s not wanted. Because other contenders for

love of seed made the sparrow an even greater pest than the pests themselves.

Some say they’re clever, cheeky and amusing little creatures because they have learned to co-habit with man so well. They are also a damned nuisance, opportunistic and eat whatever is available. If sparrows are God’s creatures why doesn’t He control them? Why does He let sparrows scavenge and poop around any eating place?

They are invasive and probably because of their commonality, very easy to dislike. They’ve easily earned their place on our list.

Seagulls

the Bad-Assed Bird of the Century are the Ozzie’s Rainbow Lorikeets and Rosellas.

Bright, multi-coloured, garish, gregarious – so Australian! Introduced here as cage birds and illegally and deliberately released in Auckland late last century, the Lorikeet and Rosella are now common in the North Island.

But don’t get too comfortable guys. While you may enjoy a few moments of notoriety on The Weekend Sun’s ‘bad-assed’ bird list, you’ve been deemed an “unwanted organism” under the Biosecurity Act 1993.

They’re aggressive, and over time will drive out our native birds by stealing their food and taking over nesting sites and territory.

The second-hand car dealers of the skies – all showy and unbelievable.

Sparrow

Another bad-ass is the Sparrow – introduced in 1867 by the Auckland Acclimatisation Society to combat plagues of crop pests. A dumb idea – because their

Seagulls – rats with wings. They have to be on our list if only because they misrepresent themselves. They maybe seagull by name but not by nature. They rarely venture far out to sea. They are scavenging landlubbers. Ever seen half a dozen seagulls scrapping over a hot chip outside Bobby’s? Merciless things – it’s like legalised cockfighting.

But then Bobby’s does do a fine chip, one worth fighting over.

Now who has ever had something nice to say about a Myna bird? They too were introduced to New Zealand, a biological solution to the South Island’s pest insect problem. They should have, but didn’t, stay there. As they moved north public opinion grew against the bird. They’re territorial and aggressive and have been known to seize nests for their own use. Lovely!

Doves

Doves maybe symbols of peace, freedom and love. And quiet innocence… But I say throw them in there with the pigeons! How much poop, how much guano, do you have to dump on the world before you’re labelled a pest and end up on The Weekend Sun Bad-assed Bird of the Century list?

Entries are not closed. Message with your least favourite contenders...

Email: hunter@thesun.co.nz

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Cassowaries, according to the Guinness Book of Records, are the world’s most dangerous birds. Cassowaries are large flightless birds that live in the rain forests of Australia. Source: https://www.birdspot.co.uk/bird-numbers/10-badass-birds

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Friday 17 November 2023

Tauranga SPCA’s Cristin Sim with ‘Evie’ the pup.

Photo: John Borren.

Urgent call for fosterers Tauranga SPCA is in urgent need of summer fosterers, with 103 animals in the centre’s care – and that number set to double in the next two months.

“We currently have 103 animals and kitten season isn’t really in full swing yet,” says Andrea, who expects double this number by January.

This prediction coupled with adoptions currently “slower than usual” means more fosterers can ease the pressure of the centre, says manager Andrea Crompton.

“Summer is a big season for cats and kittens; we need a lot of fosterers to take care of our queens and kittens,” says Andrea. “[Plus] Puppies and dogs come along year-round.”

Andreas says the centre currently has 34 fosters on their books, but would like another 30 for the summer. “But the more the merrier!

“We give great care here at the shelter, but the great thing about fostering is they [the animals] get exposed to new experiences and socialisation which is very important,” says Andrea.

“SPCA supplies everything our fosterers need including food, toys and bedding and litter. Also – you don’t need people to be at home all day every

day, which is a common misconception.”

Andrea says someone working full-time can absolutely still be a foster. “You can go on with your daily life. It’s more providing them with a safe, secure environment – so you don’t have to be there all the time. It’s just a place for them to call home for a while really.”

The commitment is on average four weeks – but Andrea says fosterers can still take a break amid the festive period. “What I want to stress to potential fosterers is to please not let that be a road-block to fostering for us. Animals can always come back to the shelter if our fosterers need a break.”

Andrea says being a fosterer is very rewarding.

“You get to do all the nice part, which is the loving and the cuddling and all that sort of stuff without that financial burden or commitment for life.”

If interested in fostering, or have any questions, call SPCA Tauranga: 07 5780245.

“We have a foster coordinator, so if people have a question – there’s no such thing as a silly question – or want to talk to previous or current fosterers, our coordinator can help with this,” says Andrea.

“The more animals we have out at foster homes, the more we can bring in and take care of.”

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

The only local daily news source you need, constantly updated, seven days a week

www.sunlive.co.nz News tips ph 0800 SUNLIVE

Cocaine seizure

Customs has found 35kg of cocaine in a smuggling attempt via the Port of Tauranga.

Customs officers uncovered the cocaine hidden in the engine compartment of a refrigerated shipping container loaded with bananas, which arrived from Panama on November 9.

Customs maritime group manager Paul Campbell says it’s estimated this latest seizure could have produced about 350,000 individual doses worth a total estimated street value of up to $15.7 million. Based on the National Drug Harm Index, this seizure has prevented around $10.5 million worth of harm in New Zealand communities.

Kiwifruit grower fined

A kiwifruit orchard has been convicted and fined $35,000 in Tauranga District Court for unlawfully taking more than 18 million litres of water for irrigation.

Terahu Orchard Limited pleaded guilty to the charge of unlawfully taking water for use at a kiwifruit orchard between November 2021 and February 2023.

Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council regulatory compliance manager Matthew Harrex says across a year the defendant took almost double the amount they were allowed to as a permitted activity. “Council’s been working with the kiwifruit industry for the past 10 years to identify and address unconsented water takes. This result sends a strong message BOPRC is actively assessing compliance on unconsented water takes and will take enforcement action where required.”

Ferry plans shelved

Plans to set up a ferry service in the Western Bay of Plenty have been canned because of the “eye watering” cost. Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council commissioned a feasibility study of a ferry service for Tauranga and the WBOP, which shows significant cost barriers to a service. The cost of a ferry ticket from Ōmokoroa to Tauranga could be $404 if patronage was low, a study by MRCagney shows. A decision to defer plans until the council’s next Long Term Plan in 2027 was made at a Public Transport Committee meeting on Tuesday, November 14.

Hot car warning

With the El Niño weather pattern bringing a hotter and drier summer to New Zealand, the AA is reminding Kiwis to never leave pets or children locked in a parked car. “People underestimate how deadly the sun can be,” says AA chief mobility officer Jonathan Sergel.

“People may try to mitigate the effects of the heat by cracking open their windows, parking their car in the shade... On a summer’s day, none of these techniques are going to make your car any safer. Temperatures in cars can double that of outside and heat stroke will set in very quickly for any passengers.”

Al fresco dining fees proposed Tauranga businesses want council to make it easier for them to use footpaths, rather than adding regulations.

Tauranga City Council is proposing to charge per square metre for street dining in the city centre and Mount Maunganui.

The fees would help maintain and improve the spaces with the charging system phased in over time.

Hearings for the draft Street Use Policy were held at a Strategy, Finance and Risk Committee meeting on Monday, November 13.

Downtown Tauranga chair Ashleigh Gee says council should consult with businesses before creating more regulations. Licences to occupy the street would be on a month-to-month basis.

Need certainty

Ashleigh says the licences should be for at least six months or a year. “Operators need certainty, we should be focusing on how to make it easier.” The fees should be based on the amount of foot traffic, location and type of space each area had, says Ashleigh.

“Considering the overall goal of increasing arts, culture and vibrancy for our region, [this] needs to be considered between developing further regulations on the hospitality industry.”

Mount Business Association representative Claudia West says a nominal fee, then a yearly licence fee, might be accepted by businesses. “If the charge is based on things like market rate of that space, then this might be thousands for businesses who are already paying premium rate to be in that location. If high charges were in place, then businesses would need to rethink their offering, or these costs would simply have to be passed on to the customer to make it viable to use the footpath space. If higher charges come in for businesses, this would have a massive impact on the look and

feel of our main street. The Mount shopping area is also seasonal and weather dependent but businesses would have to pay to use the footpath year-round.”

During consultation costs weren’t provided, so it’s hard to agree or disagree with something if you don’t know the cost, says Claudia.

Vague

Jo Veale, who owns three businesses in Mount Maunganui, says information provided during consultation was “vague”.

She wants to see research as to why an intervention in the street use policy is needed. As such, she’s asking for data on how many businesses are encroaching on the pedestrian part of the footpath.

“Is there really a problem?” Her preference is the “handful” of businesses encroaching the footpath, creating safety issues, be spoken to rather than adding charges and regulations.

“These are the livelihoods of people and also the jobs that they create. If we can’t keep a thriving, humming tourist town, then jobs will go, businesses will close, and we’ll end up…with a ghost town.”

Hospitality NZ regional manager Luke van Veen’s organisation is opposed to the policy due to its lack of information.

“It’s very hard to support this when we have very little understanding of what’s been put in front of us. We’re looking at about 180 operators [in Tauranga] being told what they can and can’t do with their street space.”

Hospitality is “very hard” across NZ let alone in Tauranga where it was “very much under construction”, says Luke. The committee will hold deliberations on the policy on December 4.

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Friday 17 November 2023

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Two weeks ago Mount Maunganui resident Carol Etherington wrote to The Weekend Sun’s editor announcing that “enough is enough” with the paid parking in CBD. Catching up with Carol, she says it was midday on a Tuesday last month when she saw an “unusually long movie” at Rialto Cinemas, and paid $12 to cover her parking. That’s $2 less than her $14 senior movie ticket cost. “I’ve been going to Rialto Cinema I’d say for 12 years. I don’t go anymore because of the parking, but I used to go about three times a week.”

She describes Rialto as a “lovely” place. “It’s an arthouse cinema and I think it’s classy to have [that]...” When paid parking charges returned to the CBD last year, Carol strategically chose movies less than two hours – putting in $4 at the parking metre.

“I mean I’ve had both knees replaced, and it’s not easy for me to run back to the car…you just get in [the cinema] and you get out so you can get back to your car, and not incur a parking fine. So you know, the poor Rialto – it’s suffering. I’d like to sit and have lunch, and meet somebody before a movie but that’s impossible now.”

Instead Carol will now go to Tivoli Cinema Pāpāmoa. “I’ll be driving a little further to Pāpāmoa and enjoy a movie plus free parking.”

In response, The Sun asked Rialto Cinema how business has been faring since paid parking returned.

“The biggest effect is on our staff,” says Rod Taylor, who took ownership of the cinema three months ago.

“They’re really struggling. They’re not overly high paid people, so having to pay for parking is certainly effecting them.”

With cinemas at Bayfair and Tauranga Crossing with free parking, Rod hopes customers see Rialto as a destination cinema. “We’ve got a slightly different market and we do a lot more arthouse-type movies, but yeah it does make it difficult [to compete], but I’m not quite sure what the solution is.”

When Carol lived in Canberra cinema customers could validate their parking and receive a discount.

She suggests the same for our CBD. “Support the cinemas. Give them half-price parking or something like that.”

The Sun asked Tauranga City Council whether it would consider such an incentive. TCC parking strategy manager Reece Wilkinson says: “There are no current plans for council to offer parking discounts for people visiting Rialto Cinema or any other city centre business as ultimately that cost burden would sit with the ratepayer and we don’t feel that is the best use of ratepayer money right now”.

Nonetheless, Rod is here to stay with Rialto Cinema and has a positive outlook for his business, which is currently getting a makeover.

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The Weekend Sun

Sixth straight win for Te Puke tree climber!

A Te Puke woman is climbing her way towards international victory after winning the NZ Women’s Arborist Tree Climbing Championship title last weekend in Invercargill.

Stephanie Dryfhout – who is an arborist in her day job – says the national title win has grasped her a chance to compete at the International Tree Climbing Championship 2024 in the United States.

“It felt awesome to win! I will now be able to compete at the ITCC in Atlanta, Georgia, late next year,” says Stephanie.

“This is actually my sixth straight win.”

Central City ApartChurches from the national tile, Stephanie also won In association with: Holy the Trinity Tauranga women’s category, the work climb and the aerial St Peters in the City in the first round of competition. rescue events Tauranga Central “TreeBaptist climbing competitions are made up of two Church rounds,”Catholic says Stephanie.

Saint Mary Immaculate Church “The first round has five individual events that mimic some of the skills that St Enoch’s Presbyterian areSalvation requiredArmy to be an arborist, including an aerial Tauranga rescue, climbing around a large spreading tree, installing ropes and speed events.

“The second round is called the Masters Challenge. This takes the top climbers from the first round and the aim of the event is to display many aspects of tree climbing including efficiency, planning, safety and finesse.”

Stephanie’s interest in tree climbing came from a background in horticulture. “I saw a video of the world champion at the time. I’d always been pretty

Arborist and competitive tree climber Stephanie Dryfhout in her element. Photo: Chris Grueber.

keen on sports so that was a bit of a lightbulb moment for me, like I had to do this.”

She got into the sport in 2017 and has been competing ever since. “My favourite thing about tree climbing is the community, the people involved are like family.

“It is an individual sport, yet everyone helps everyone and wants everyone to do their best.

“I’d like to continue to compete or help out for as long as I am able to do so.” Watch this space!

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The Weekend Sun

Friday 17 November 2023

7

Reverend John Hebenton with his own special pet ‘Muffy’ the dog.

Photo: John Borren.

Share a pew with your pets Kia Seltos

Don’t be surprised if you end up sharing a pew with a dog, a cat or even a budgie at St George’s Anglican Church this Sunday.

LX 2.0L Petrolchurch is hosting Reverend John Hebenton’s its annual SPCA Animal Blessing ceremony on November 19. “Pets are important in people’s lives,” says John.

As such, the Reverend invites everyone to “unite with families, canines, and other creatures – great and small – for the special opportunity to have your pets blessed as we celebrate and give thanks for our companion animals and recognise the life of the patron saint of animals, Saint Francis of Assisi”.

John has blessed dogs – “bazillions of dogs from tiny to extremely large!” He’s blessed cats – mostly people bring photos of their felines – plus rabbits, mice, rats, guinea pigs, birds – such as budgies, parrots, cockatiels – some slugs and snails, fish, horses, donkeys, goats and pigs. “The kids are very excited to get their pets blessed,” says John.

“It is about acknowledging that our world is created by God and is a gift – and we are invited,

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as God’s people, to live in this world in a way that allows every creation to thrive.”

All pets are welcome this Sunday, but John says: “Dogs must be on leashes, cats in cages, birds in cages, bigger animals [goats, donkeys, pigs etc] outside on leads”.

If your pet is not comfortable with other animals, bring a photo of your pet to be blessed instead.

“If people don’t have a pet – bring a picture of their favourite animal, or of an endangered species that we could then acknowledge and pray for.”

John gets everyone involved in the special service.

“I put words on the screens...everyone says the words, and we bring up the animals in clumps. I then go to each animal and bless them.

“The animals do join in singing – a few of them like to bark.” John says the service provides a space “to give thanks for the world we live in, for the animals, including the animals that we eat, but also to sustain life”. The non-denominational service begins 10am Sunday, November 19, at St George’s Anglican Church, Gate Pa. A collection is taken for the work of the SPCA, with morning tea served afterwards.

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*MRP is the Maximum Retail Price. The Kia 5 Year Warranty Programme runs for 5 years or up to 150,000 kms (whichever occurs first). All other on road costs (ORC) are additional. Terms and conditions apply, see kia.co.nz for full details.

Friday 17 November 2023

The Weekend Sun

8

ONE SCOOP OR TWO? Come along to our Spring Open Days We are delighted to invite you to our special Spring Open Days at Arvida Ocean Shores.

Start with a delicious ice-cream then join us for a tour of our sunny community for over 65s.

You’ll enjoy a relaxed, enjoyable lifestyle here at Ocean Shores, which is perfectly located just 300 metres from the beach. There’s a selection of homes to view, and our extensive grounds and beautiful resort-style facilities to explore. So come and join us for a taste of what it’s all about.

Friday 24 and Saturday 25 November 10am - 3pm 80 Maranui Street, Mount Maunganui arvida.co.nz 0800 774 635

An Arvida Living Well Community

The Weekend Sun

Friday 17 November 2023

9

Overbridge open day for public Waka Kotahi NZTA is holding an open day on Saturday, November 18, for the community to find out what to expect during the next stage of the Takitimu North Link work.

Waka Kotahi regional manager infrastructure delivery Jo Wilton says construction work to complete the new Cambridge Rd Overbridge, between Bethlehem and Tauriko, has entered its final phase, as part of the new 6.8km expressway project.

“This is one of three bridges nearing

completion on the project which is really exciting progress,” says Jo. Upcoming works will require a full closure of a section of Moffat Rd, Bethlehem, for three months starting January 2024. A diversion road will be in place, and detours for light vehicles and heavy trucks to use State Highway 29/Takitimu Drive Toll Road.

Waka Kotahi’s public open day is 10.30am-1.30pm this Saturday, November 18, at the Bethlehem Hall, 239 State Highway 2. All are welcome.

From left, Jessica Young with baby Violet, Ōmokoroa Loved 4 Life’s Cathy Taylor, and Ashley Gainford with baby Freya. Photo: John Borren.

Loving little ones for life flourishes at Ōmokoroa

“We visit every baby that’s born that we hear about,” says Cathy Taylor, who founded the Ōmokoroa Chapter of Loved 4 Life.

That must be a fair few visits as the once-farmland peninsula mushrooms into a residential mecca, full of young families?

“Great families, equals great communities, equals a great country,” says Cathy. “Our vision is to positively impact families; and our goal is every child will be loved for life and that parents will have the skills to make this happen.”

No one older

Cathy’s chapter is part of the nationwide not-for-profit organisation, which welcomes new babies with gifted parcels including quilts, knitted goods and burping cloths plus a listening ear for mothers.

“We feel these days, a lot of young mums don’t have any parental or grandparental

support,” says Cathy.

“They’re moving around the country, and suddenly here they are with a new baby and they’ve got no one older to help them. Sometimes you just need somebody older that can just be like a mum or a grandmother, and that’s the role we play.”

Cathy began the Ōmokoroa chapter in 2017 – and it’s morphed from gifting quilts, to knitted baby clothes, to much more. “The parcel has grown and grown...”

Cathy’s volunteers visit newborns and mothers within three weeks of them giving birth.“We take a parcel of goodies and arrange to get a meal delivered.

“Each term we have a coffee morning so mothers can get in contact with each other and make friends,” says Cathy.

“At the coffee mornings it’s just lovely to meet up and see the interactions between the mums.”

The hope is all feel a part of the community, says Cathy.

“We involve the elderly too because I’ve got 12 – all retirees

– that knit and quilt for us and when we have the coffee mornings they come too and the young ones come and we all mix together.”

Join or refer a mum!

Cathy says with mums reluctant to ask for free gifts, mainly other mothers or grandparents make referrals.

“Our first Loved 4 Life babies are now at school!”

Cathy’s chapter – which has extended to Plumbers Point, Whakamārama and Katikati – runs on funds she applies for.

“We’re hoping to start another chapter in Katikati.”

Welcome Bay and Tauranga each have a chapter, and Cathy hopes to start another in Pāpāmoa.

To become part of a group of ladies (or men) who sew, knit or cook, contact Cathy. She also needs to know of pregnant mums, so she can contact them to offer a parcel. Contact Cathy on: 021 704 686 or email: gregncathy51hotmail.com or visit: www.loved4life.com

Ayla Yeoman

Overnight closure between Welcome Bay and Baypark Plan ahead for overnight closures of State Highway 29A between the Maungatapu roundabout and the Baypark roundabout, from Sunday 19 to Friday 24 November, between 7pm and 5am.

Light vehicles detour via State Highway 2, local roads and the Hairini bridge.

Heavy vehicles detour via SH29A, SH29 and SH2.

Baypark and Truman Lane access will be available from the Sandhurst interchange.

Check journeys.nzta.govt.nz before you travel during the night works and allow extra time for your journeys. We appreciate your patience while we complete this important mahi. nzta.govt.nz/SH29Aclosure

Baypark to Bayfair Link

Friday 17 November 2023

The Weekend Sun

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Funding the protection of wildlife and forests They’re at the heart of our region’s conservation efforts – from helping volunteers care for our little blue penguins to protecting our native forests.

Yet like all great volunteer works, it takes funds to keep going! Bay

Conservation Alliance is a Bay of Plenty not-for-profit organisation that’s been selected for The Funding Network NZ’s Generosity Generator – giving the group the tools needed to run a successful crowdfunding campaign via Givealittle.

Bay Conservation Alliance chief executive Michelle Elborn says

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the charity is very excited to be a part of this fundraising programme. “There’s just a constant ongoing need for funding with environmental initiatives.

predator control and what new technologies might be available that they could be utilising, and we run lots of training events throughout the year for volunteers.”

There are 29 different community-led conservation groups that Bay Conservation Alliance is supporting – covering a broad spectrum of protective work.

One is the Western Bay Wildlife Trust. “They focus on little blue penguins and a number of other species around Mauao and Moturiki/ Leisure Island and they just do what they can to support those species,” says Michelle.

“They started that work after the Rena disaster and have continued since.”

Another is the Aongatete Forest Project, which is

Constant challenge

“It’s a constant challenge for all sorts of conservation charities and groups to access funding to really enable some great outcomes.”

Michelle says Bay Conservation Alliance essentially acts as an umbrella charity to help our region’s conservation groups.

“My team here support conservation groups in different ways. So sometimes it’s helping a group work out how they attract and retain more volunteers… it might be how they are planning for

working towards restoring the 500 hectares of native forest in Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park. “They’ve been doing pest control in there for more than a decade and the public can go and do walks in the area. It’s got notably more bird life in there compared to other parts of the conservation park.”

Target of $10K

Michelle says their fundraising target is $10,000 – so they can continue supporting these types of conservation projects. With the Givealittle page live, she says: “It’s our first time having a go at this so we just encourage people to get behind us and donate if they can”.

To donate and support, visit: givealittle.co.nz/fundraiser/ support-our-nature-heroes-tofly-high Georgia Minkhorst

No pressure, and it’s good to know the value of your property.

I’ll keep you updated from time to time as the market changes.

Phone 0800 RACH 4 U No.1 Agent Papamoa Office 20/21, 21/22, 22/23 Top 5 Greater Tauranga Area 20/21, 21/22, 22/23 Michelle Elborn of Bay Conservation Alliance, which acts as an umbrella charity to help our region’s conservation groups. Photo: John Borren.

Meet Gracie - the absolute character!

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Gracie is full of love and life.

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The Weekend Sun

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The Weekend Sun

The Weekend Sun

Friday 17 November 2023

13

Tauranga teens to surf in world champs every chance. “I try to surf every day and I think I’ve only missed a couple of days this year so far. I try to keep the body moving as much as I can and stay in shape – I notice it if I have a few days out of the water.”

Both locals admit the self-funded cost of getting to Brazil is steep – so

Anna Brock in action.

Photos: Jamie Troughton/Dscribe Media.

they’ve both set up Givealittle pages to help defray the expenses.

Support Anna at: givealittle.co.nz/ cause/support-anna-brock-torepresent-nz-at-the-world Support Tao at: givealittle.co.nz/ cause/support-mount-maunganuilocal-tao-mouldey

Tao Mouldey in action.

Organisation has been the key for Mount Maunganui surfer Anna Brock, as she finally gets to represent New Zealand on the world stage.

The 18-year-old is heading to Rio de Janeiro for this month’s ISA World Junior surfing championships, alongside 15-year-old Bay Boardriders teammate and Tauranga Boys’ College star Tao Mouldey.

The pair are part of a 12-strong national team, selected earlier this year for their performances on the New Zealand junior circuit in the last 12 months.

Anna

Anna’s selection is particularly noteworthy – after two years of disappointment she was selected in 2021 but the world championships was cancelled due to Covid-19. Last year she was the non-traveling reserve.

Now in her first year studying commerce and food science at Otago University, the former Mount Maunganui College head girl has also had to juggle

playing premier women’s hockey in Dunedin. “It’s definitely a challenge fitting everything in, playing hockey and surfing, as well as my studies and fitting in other fitness activities like gym work and running,” says Anna. “I make it work – I have a schedule and write out every single day in half-hour blocks.”

And the freezing southern climate also isn’t enough to put her off the surf, though it does require some personal mind games. “It’s a 15-minute drive to the beach from where I am in Dunedin and it means I basically have to commit to going and getting in the water. I can’t turn around, which is good in some ways!”

Anna started surfing at age six and began competing at 10. She completed a stellar junior career

by winning the New Zealand Under-18 overall women’s series earlier this year. She’ll be joined in the NZ Under18 division by Australia-based Tayla Green, who won the national championship title, and Whangamata’s Pia Rogers.

Tao

Tao, meanwhile, is the eldest of three surf-mad brothers, first taking to the water at age four after getting a foamie board from the surf shop down the road. Tao’s teammates in the Under-16 boys’ division will be Alexis Owen of Dunedin and Auckland’s Theo Morse.

Tao’s hoping to build on his 17th-place finish at the junior worlds in El Salvador last year and has been putting in countless hours to give himself

Takitimu North Link Open Day

Major work to complete the new Cambridge Road overbridge, between Bethlehem and Tauriko, is now in its final phase.

Work involve connecting the new bridge with Cambridge and Moffat roads, requiring significant traffic management and disruption to journeys through this area.

A FUN FAMILY EVENT JOIN US AS WE

Come along to find out more about what to expect. All welcome.

LIGHT THE TREE 1 DEC ST

4.30PM to 6PM

IN THE SQUARE (by the library)

When Saturday 18 November, 10:30am – 1:30pm

Where Bethlehem Hall, 239 State Highway 2, Bethlehem, Tauranga

Takitimu North Link

ENJOY STREET ENTERTAINMENT 23-SH-TNL-015

Friday 17 November 2023

14

The Weekend Sun

Back doing what he loves most!

Allen Hickson is back in Piccadilly Arcade with his card store. Photo: Juan Cortes. business. Normal service has people. They appreciate the resumed at Piccadilly Greeting meaning and feeling of a wellCards. “So glad you came back crafted card.

Allen,” says Shiree De Veth. She’s Another customer, again before driven all the way from Welcome the shop is open officially at Allen the card man – Allen Bay to buy cards.

Who says people 10am, has found what she was Hickson – closed his shop and looking for. “It’s a Christmas disappeared from the arcade a year don’t drive into town to shop?

“I like his cards,” says Shiree, card with ‘mother’ on it.” Just ago. Like a lot of businesses. a customer of 18 years. “A huge the ticket, exactly what she was He needed a break, was looking range of NICE cards.” after. It will be in the post to for fresh challenges.

“That’s right,” says the card man.

Buckinghamshire in the UK in a “But I missed the shop, missed “No horrible cards.” The shop couple of days and should arrive people; missed the life.” Retail is a clutter – a wonderful place to in time. still flows strongly through those fossick and find exactly the right mature veins.

Selling plants message for someone special.

During his year off, Allen built a Allen sold “many thousands of A few doors up glasshouse. That provided another cards” during his first tenure in And so, one morning this week, business opportunity. Now he’s the arcade from 2004 to 2022.

Allen was back in the arcade – selling plants in his shop too.

“Cards are wonderful things. just a couple of doors up from Allen Hickson rebooting his “They encourage people.

Nice his old shop. Things haven’t 30-year career in retail could thoughts and nice words.” changed a jot. signal a small shift in the fortunes So he’s back peddling nice At 9.50am – 10 minutes before of the CBD. “Something positive opening up his new premises – he thoughts and nice words – and I hope.” Allen has certainly there are plenty of takers. was putting out stands of cards signalled his commitment.

“I had many, many regulars and and calendars. Then the spinners He’s got a “very nice” 10-year they’re coming back,” says Allen. with more cards and more rental deal on his shop. Welcome He likes that. And they’re of a calendars, and CDs and DVDs. home Allen!

Allen Hickson is back in demographic – a lot are mature Hunter Wells

A serious case of déjà vu in the CBD’s Piccadilly Arcade this week.

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Friday 17 November 2023

Friday 17 November 2023

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Cultures and family treasures on display Western Bay Museum’s latest exhibition ‘Treasures of Cultures’ is like a large mirror reflecting the melting pot of people and families – their cultures, stories and traditions – who live locally.

Museum manager Paula Gaelic says 30 countries and 51 objects from 41 local donors make up the exhibition – which depicts cultures from all

seven of the world’s continents.

“Everything in this exhibition has come from people and families within our community,” says Paula.

Paula came up with the exhibition’s concept – then went to the community asking: ‘What did you bring with you that is important to you culturally?’

Paula says the 41 donors who have loaned items have themselves written the labels to accompany each display.

As such, stepping into the museum

is like taking a trip around the world! There’s so many items from so many parts of the world to view and learn about – and the story of how they connect to their local resident owner.

Bulls of Peru

and sake cups sit beside old adornments made of ivory and bone. The Arctic Circle also features thanks to a Katikati resident who lived up the top of Canada. “The mittens and boots – she wore these. The boots are made from seal skin, moose hide and wool,” says Paula.

Scotland features – with one tartan belonging to Western

BOP deputy Mayor John Scrimgeour. “The tartan and royal banner have very strong royal connections – these tartans were even part of Queen Elizabeth’s funeral and King Charles III’s coronation.”

There are Bulls of Peru, which Turkish cradle A beautiful Turkish cradle are put over houses in that belongs to Bill and Sue Sisley, country for good luck. who purchased it when they Arrowheads from America that lived in Turkey and raised their could date back to 1700-1800 family there. A table from India American Indian has a great story, says Paula. culture. A Mate “The family believe Gandhi sat teapot from around this table...”

Argentina for Katikati’s Jizzy Green grew making herbal up in South Africa in the tea; “you never same area Nelson Mandela wash it”. was born. Her family were A set of wooden tobacco growers – and so clogs from the a tobacco pouch and snuff Netherlands sit bottle depict this time in beside a ‘Knipmuts her life. of Gelderland’ – a There’s Welsh spoons, lace bonnet. “The Fijian kava bowls, and bonnet is really, stunning Chinese really old. Like calligraphy. “This is every exhibition owned by a Chinese – we’re learning couple in Katikati. heaps. The little “When they pleats at the back moved here the – how long they lady’s father, are – represent the who has learnt wearer’s status. calligraphy since he “Lace bonnets was a child, wrote were only worn for Torito de Pucará – these clay-made bulls are put this calligraphy for their special occasions.” over houses in Peru for good luck. Photos: Merle Cave. first house here.

Japanese hinoki

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Even clothing features in the exhibition – with some beautiful cultural garments on display.

The exhibition on Merv Gaelic’s family history is very precious to him.

“This is what this exhibition is all about.

“It doesn’t have to be an ancient treasure, it just needs to be important to the people who’ve loaned it.”

Paula says some items are very old artefacts while others items are still in use in Katikati homes, like a Macedonia cooking pot.

Zimbabwe. Paula’s husband Merv’s family history even features. In 1906, Merv’s father Zivko, aged 16, came from Croatia to NZ to chaperone his sister getting married here. “This happened often with Yugoslavs and Dutch in NZ at the time,” says Paula.

“He arrived here as Zivko Leo Gilic Krisanovic – but when he became a NZ national citizen he saw a bottle of Gaelic Old Smuggler whiskey in the office.

“And, like the Dutch and Slavs did, they anglicised their names to fit in, in their new land. So the ‘Gilic’ got dropped for ‘Gaelic’.

IRA conflict

Plus other items show times of change or conflict in foreign countries. The Gallagher family’s items tell the times of IRA conflict in Ireland. A carpet from Iraq was made by a Katikati resident’s uncle, who not long after was killed by a bomb.

One man’s flag of A ‘Knipmuts of Gelderland’ – a lace bonnet Rhodesia was only used from The Nertherlands. Really, really old; the for one year in that little pleats at the back – how long they are – country, before it became represent the wearer’s status.

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Friday 17 November 2023

17 is a precious collection – but to anybody else it’s a set of old keys,” says Paula.

The exhibition has a longer time-period – from August 2023 to January 2024 – than most to enable more of Western Bay of Plenty residents to view it.

“We think this exhibition is so important because our community is so diverse.

“When kids come here from Katikati schools it’s like the United Nations sitting in front of you.

“All of these people of different cultures and

countries live locally within our district. And museums are inclusive – we want all communities within WBOP to enjoy our museum and learn about each other. And feel belonging here. Because museums are neutral places.

“We don’t take any political stances and everybody is welcome here.” The museum is aiming to get visitor numbers back to preCovid levels.

“So we’ve made the museum free to anybody who walks in.” Merle Cave

Croatian keys

Merv found a set of old keys when he visited his family’s old home in Croatia in the early1970s. “For Merv this

r a e w m i Sw

Friday 17 November 2023

Light up someone’s Christmas...

The Salvation Army’s annual appeal is this year called ‘Light up Someone’s Christmas’.

Salvation Army territorial director of community ministries Jono Bell says his organisation is acutely aware of the challenges the past year has brought to many across Aotearoa, particularly amid an increasing costof-living crisis. “More Kiwis than ever are doing it tough this year. Over the past 12 months, our Foodbank Project has witnessed an increase in the cost of basic food parcels, with prices rising

The Weekend Sun

18 from $120 to $135 – a 12.5 per cent rise. The cost impacts the amount of nutritious food available for families struggling to make ends meet.”

The Sallies assisted more than 150,000 Kiwis in 2022, up from 120,000 in 2020.

By supporting their Christmas Appeal, donors can make a real difference. Contributions go to ensuring access to nutritious food supplies and wraparound services that include budgeting, counselling and positive lifestyle programmes.

To support the appeal, visit: www.salvationarmy.org.nz/Christmas

Tell council what ya think of city plan!

Council wants community feedback on Tauranga’s 10-year plan.

“Our plan hasn’t changed much since we last talked with you. You’ve told us loud and clear what you love most about Tauranga, and we’re listening,” says Tauranga City Council Commission Chair Anne Tolley.

“During the next 10 years we’re continuing to invest in our growing city, making things fairer, and doing the mahi to finish what we’ve started.

“We know it’s a hard time to talk about investing in our city.

“That’s why we’re working

hard to keep our costs and rates increases as low as possible by delaying or deferring some projects.”

Anne says council is also doing its best to make sure everyone is paying a fair share to help reduce the burden on general ratepayers.

“It’s a balancing act between the investment our city needs today and in the future, and what we can afford in the face of increasing delivery costs.

“Now we want to know if you think we have that balance right.”

In particular, council want public feedback on the following.

Our infrastructure – should industrial ratepayers pay more?

Key infrastructure for growth – who should pay the shortfall?

Sports fields and boat ramps – should users pay to play?

Reducing traffic congestion – switch lanes and try a different solution? Development in the city centre – will incentives help us grow our city? A community stadium – this decade, the next, or never? Parking buildings – sell up, or park the idea?

Give your feedback on Tauranga’s 10-year plan by December 15. Go to Tauranga City Council website to find out more, at: www.tauranga.govt.nz

The Weekend Sun

’ T E L !

GO

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s ’ e n t r A X e L h URp ene h O rt O f

s

s r a e y 0 I

Our plan for the next 10 years is about investing in our future and making things fairer along the way - have we got it right?

Share your thoughts on…

Our infrastructure Should industrial ratepayers pay more?

Key infrastructure for growth Who should pay the shortfall?

Reducing traffic congestion Switch lanes and try a different solution?

Development in the city centre Will incentives help us grow our city?

Sports fields and boat ramps Should users pay to play?

A community stadium This decade, the next, or never?

Parking buildings Sell up, or park the idea?

invesTing in OuR future making things fairer dOing the mahi

Find out more letstalk.tauranga.govt.nz/longtermplan

Share your feedback by 15 December.

You can go online or chat with us in person at one of our drop-in events: Saturday 18 November 9.30am to 5pm Bayfair Shopping Centre Arataki Monday 20 November 11am to 1pm Mount Hub, 9 Prince Avenue Mount Maunganui Saturday 25 November 9am to 2pm Mount – Little Big Market Coronation Park Saturday 2 December 9am to 2pm Pāpāmoa – Little Big Market Pāpāmoa Pony Club Sunday 3 December 10am to 1pm Bethlehem Town Centre

Monday 4 December 6pm to 7.30pm 306 Cameron Road Saturday 9 December 10am to 2pm The Crossing, Tauriko Wednesday 13 December 7.30am to 9am 306 Cameron Road EVENING EVENT Wednesday 22 November 5.30pm to 7pm Western Bay of Plenty District Council Chambers Barkes Corner Join us for a presentation on our 10-year plan, plus learn more about SmartTrip - an idea to help reduce traffic congestion

Friday 17 November 2023

The Weekend Sun

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Curcumin for respiratory health Curcumin, from turmeric, exerts pharmacological effects on many body tissue types. This means curcumin can help balance faulty chemistry that leads to disease.

ric Turme C P O h wit

Today we look at how curcumin impacts upper nasal and lower bronchial/lung respiratory health. Possibly the most important impact of curcumin are its effects on the immune system, especially unwanted tissue inflammation.

Our immune system relies on a variety of cell-signalling proteins called cytokines.

Normal cytokine function is important for immune responses. If cytokine activity is out of balance this can result in tissue inflammation. We know cytokine imbalance is one of the main drivers of lung problems such as asthma and COPD. Research shows adding curcumin can help balance cytokine activity, resulting in less

inflammation in tissue that lines our respiratory tract.

Pligomeric proanthocyanidins – known as OPC – from grape seeds also balance cytokine activity. I started using OPC in my supplements more than 25 years ago and know it has profound health benefits from its potent antioxidant and immune support qualities.

I currently use OPC in four of my supplements and have no doubt this contributes to their effectiveness.

Combining modern 100 per cent water-soluble curcumin extracts with quality OPC can greatly help immune function, especially balancing cytokine function. This can result in better airway function and

reduced sensitivity to allergens by helping immune mast cells to limit histamine secretion.

The problem with curcumin is it isn’t water-soluble and has poor absorption.

However, the latest extracts combine curcumin with food starches, producing 100 per cent water solubility with greatly improved absorption without need for black pepper that can irritate the stomach.

For more information, call me or email: john@abundant.co.nz Or read my newsletter at: www.abundant.co.nz

John Arts is a qualified nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health. Contact John on 0800 423 559. To read more, go to: www.sunlive.co.nz

Youthline moves to 24/7 counselling service For the first time in its 53-year history, Youthline’s phone and text message helpline is available to young people 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Previously, Youthline’s midnight-to-8am helpline had been limited to crisis calls only. Now the nationwide service has been extended to 24/7, enabling young people aged 12 to 24 to connect with a registered counsellor at any time of the day or night via phone or text message.

No problem is too big or too small – it’s free, confidential and provides a space for young people to talk. Youthline CEO Shae Ronald says expanding the helpline to a full overnight service

Abundant Health

has been a long-held dream. “We knew the need was there, but both the need and severity of calls we’re receiving have been higher than expected.

“We began offering this extended service earlySeptember without promotion, and in just two months we’ve received more than 60 calls and 4680 text messages between midnight and 8am.”

Shae says it’s critical Youthline is there for any young person who reaches out for support at night. “Research shows night-time is typically harder for rangatahi. Rumination – repetitive thinking about negative thoughts – often happens at night and is worse for those who might already be feeling anxious or low.”

Youthline is open 24 hours daily via free text to: 234 or free call: 0800 376 633.

Letting go of what we expect from others “You have power over your mind – not outside events.

Realise this, and you will find strength” – Marcus Aurelius.

Many of us operate from expectations we may not be completely aware of. For example, that others will be as considerate as we believe we are; that they will have similar values; and that their responses in

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particular situations will be similar to ours.

When this doesn’t occur we may become annoyed.

We had expected a certain outcome and we may still look for ways to bring it about.

However, we’ll save ourselves much energy and gain more strength by accepting the truth that we can never control another person’s responses.

When we let go of what we expect from others, it will allow us to have more control of what we think and how we want to respond without needing to control everything around us.

Are you surprised when things don’t go quite the way you planned? And what steps would you like to take that give you more control within yourself?

If you’d like to learn more about coaching, recognise your potential, deal with stress or conflict, or another issue, phone Mary Parker, The Fast Track Coach, on: 021 258 2145, or visit: www.thefasttrackcoach.co.nz

The Weekend Sun

Project Uplift calls for old bras Project Uplift is calling out for all Western Bay of Plenty and Tauranga women to donate their old, unused or unwanted bras to gift to less fortunate ladies and girls in the Pacific and South-East Asia.

“Imagine life without a bra?” asks Project Uplift Bay of Plenty organiser Melia Walsh. “Put yourself in their shoes...

“We take it for granted, think of the young girls starting puberty and needing a bra. This is about the women who’ve gone through mastectomies and don’t have a bra to support and comfort their breasts after surgery; think about the breastfeeding mothers without maternity bras who are constantly leaking between feeds.”

Essential

Melia says bra accessibility and affordability is an ongoing issue in the Pacific. “There are women out there who have never owned a bra before.” Yet bras are essential for support, comfort, dignity and to avoid rashes and fungal infections that can occur due to a lack of air circulation.

“Our goal for this year is [to collect] 5000 donated bras...I mean the sky’s the limit, 10,000 bras,” Melia laughs.

Project Uplift is a non-profit

Friday 17 November 2023

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Project Uplift’s Melia Walsh dishing out donated bras to a Fijian recipient last year. Photo: supplied. organisation that collects secondhand bras and delivers them to 10-11 countries including the Solomon Islands, Tonga, Cambodia and Sri Lanka. “There is a constant need and we are constantly sending,” says Melia.

Along with normal bras, sport bras, swimwear, mastectomy bras, new underwear are also greatly appreciated. Melia says broken bras are wanted too – as they can be used to repair other bras. “We

can use the hooks to extend bras so they can be useable, even with weight change.”

Donate!

Last year Melia took 44kg of bras donated from the BOP community – about several thousand – to Fiji. “We then sent 4000-5000 to Auckland. This year’s donations will been sent to Auckland to the head organiser for distribution.”

So dig deep into your underwear

New karakia to provide pre-surgery comfort The Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists has this month launched a karakia designed to provide pre-surgery comfort to patients and their whānau.

The karakia, written by tohunga (expert practitioner) Mark Kopua, of Te Atianga a Hauiti, is now available to download from the ANZCA website for use at hospital anaesthesia departments across New Zealand.

The karakia, available in English and te reo Māori, is designed to be recited by patients and

their families before an operation.

Rotorua-based anaesthetist Dr Arihia Waaka, of Te Arawa, Tainui, came up with the concept of the karakia and was able to make it a reality through a grant from ANZCA’s Health Equity Projects Fund.

“Karakia is a very prominent part of Māori people’s lives and of my life as well. If I was having surgery, I would be grateful for this sort of tool, and it’s just another way to help whānau be involved in the healing of their family.”

drawers and donate any old and illfitting bras to uplift the lives of ladies across the Pacific.

Western BOP’s Project Uplift donations drop-off points are: Breast Cancer Support, 53 Fraser St, Tauranga; Melia’s workplace: Metalcraft Roofing, 42 Poturi St,

Tauriko; or KiwiSpan 1 Loop Rd, Te Puna; or Athenree Food Exchange, which Melia checks regularly or Melia’s home. Contact Melia to arrange a drop-off on: 027 933 3079.

Find out more by searching ‘Project Uplift’ on Facebook or at: www.projectuplift.org.nz Ayla Yeoman

Friday 17 November 2023

The Weekend Sun

22

News from Bay of Plenty Regional Council November 2023

Water testing ramps up at more than 95 spots around the rohe From Labour weekend until the end of March, Regional Council bathing technicians are performing weekly water quality sampling at more than 95 popular swimming spots (lakes, rivers and beaches) around the Bay of Plenty.

Water sampling throughout the Bay of Plenty is a big part of Regional Council’s summer mahi to help keep you safe in the water.

The results from our lab testing are shared with LAWA and Toi Te Ora Public Health. Together, they use this data to determine the ‘swim-ability’ of our water.

To find out if your favourite place is safe to swim, go to: boprc.govt.nz/safe-swimming-areas

Got a pest problem? Find out more here!

Toi Moana has an online pest portal which contains details of all the pests we are working to exclude, eradicate or control through the Regional Pest Management Plan (RPMP) 2020 – 2030. With everything from agapanthus to koi carp, it includes details of why a pest is pesty, who needs to take responsibility for controlling it and advice on how best to control it. To search for a pest’s details, go to boprc.govt.nz/environment/pests

Be a safer boatie this summer If you’re heading out on the water this summer, remember to follow the rules to ensure everyone comes home safely. No matter if you’re on a jet ski, kayak, paddleboard, or powerboat it’s the skippers responsibility to know and understand the rules. Bay of Plenty Regional Council Maritime Teams Lake and Harbour patrols will be on the water seven days a week from December to help keep our boaties safe and enforce the rules on the water.

Find out more at boprc.govt.nz/boating-in-the-bay

Always wear your lifejacket Take two waterproof ways to call for help Check the marine weather forecast

Opening event Saturday 25 November The new park upgrades will officially open after a pre-dawn blessing by mana whenua.

Everyone is welcome to attend this special occasion.

4.30am Assemble at the new carpark

4.45am Karakia/karanga and speeches

6.30am Proceedings conclude

You are welcome to park in the old carpark and walk to the new one. Please note, traffic management will be in place and one lane may be closed.

6.45am All park open for everyone to explore!

All event details can be found here

Bay of Plenty Regional Council Toi Moana works to ensure our region’s environment and its people thrive.

Find out about the work we do at www.boprc.govt.nz

The Weekend Sun

Friday 17 November 2023

23 news and views for the over 55s

Older Kiwis encouraged to be cyber-smart online “Norton’s 360 Premium is an example of an allin-one solution that has a password manager, a breach monitoring tool, and a one-click VPN that’s easy to use.”

Thanks to Norton, The Weekend Sun has two copies of Norton 360 Premium – RRP

Older adults can been seen as rewarding targets by cybercriminals.

Photo: supplied.

Did you know more than one in four Kiwis aged 58-plus experienced cybercrime in 2022?

Cybersecurity expert Norton says cybercriminals view older adults as rewarding targets.

“This is because many have spent their lives building a nest egg of retirement funds,” says Mark Gorrie, managing director of Norton APAC. “As such, here are Norton’s five

NZ$204.99 each – to give away to two lucky readers who can tell us what should you be cautious of clicking on?

Enter online at: www.sunlive.co.nz under the ‘Competitions’ tab.

Entries must be received by Tuesday, November 21.

top tips for protecting yourself from online scams.”

Use unique and strong passwords – or better yet, a password manager.

Monitor your financial accounts closely. Beware of phishing scams and be cautious when clicking on links, or providing personal information.

Use a VPN when accessing the internet through public Wi-Fi. Lastly – use a reputable security software to protect your devices.

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Friday 17 November 2023

The Weekend Sun

24 news and views for the over 55s

No shame in asking for help with dementia care We all need help at some point, but when a loved one has dementia that help is even more important.

SCAN HERE

We provide specialist dementia care Available from $60

07-547 4349 | enlivenplus.org.nz

Over the years I’ve met so many people who feel they have to struggle on without help because they feel embarrassed or a failure and that there’s no point in asking for help as dementia is a one-way street.

While no-one is going to be cured of their dementia, there is so much that can be done to make caring for, and living with, dementia easier.

Asking for help can be hard, but it can also be rewarded with knowledge, support and camaraderie of a shared struggle.

Most people are surprised to learn many others are ‘in the same boat’ and have gone, or are going through, the same challenges. By asking for help, you can receive many hints and tips for the daily struggle of caring for a loved one with dementia. Each person is different, but often the challenges are familiar.

The stigma associated with dementia is reducing, but we also need to reduce the amount of ‘coping-in-isolation’ that remains commonplace.

Getting the support you need helps build your inner strength as well as your ability and confidence to cope.

If you’d like to chat about coping with caring for a loved one with dementia, give me a call.

Ruth Thomas, EnlivenPlus. Phone: 07 547 4349. EnlivenPlus provides specialist dementia care from $60.

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The Weekend Sun

Friday 17 November 2023

25 news and views for the over 55s

Learn more about life after a stroke

Western Bay of Plenty residents are invited to an information day for people affected by stroke, and their family and carers.

The Life After Stroke Seminar – hosted by Stroke Foundation NZ – is 10am-3pm Thursday, November 23 at the Heron room, Arataki Community Centre.

Topics include preventing a secondary stroke, living a good life

Ōmokoroa Country Estate has beautiful established gardens on nearly 10 hectares of grounds. Photo: supplied.

Welcome to beautiful retirement living!

Beautiful retirement living is on offer right here on your doorstep at Ōmokoroa Country Estate.

“Finding the right retirement living is about being surrounded by caring friends and feeling connected to your community,” says Ōmokoroa Country Estate sales manager Karen Matheson.

“It’s also about living in an environment that brings you closer to nature and nurtures your health and wellbeing.”

What really sets Ōmokoroa Country Estate apart is its beautiful established gardens, says Karen.

“Our 150 well-appointed homes are situated on nearly 10 hectares of grounds with streets lined with huge oak trees, phoenix palms and magnolias. Individual gardens are bursting with colour from rhododendrons, camelia bushes to

kowhai trees year-round!”

With the land once a fertile farm and orchard, citrus trees laden with fruit are still found throughout the estate.

“You hear tūī singing in the trees above you, and you may see ducks waddling past your front door!”

Just minutes from the beach and coastal pathways, Ōmokoroa Country Estate residents can explore the peninsula by foot or bike – and you’re just minutes away from a golf course and bowling club.

“Whichever you choose to enjoy, to be active or relaxed, you can always return to swim or soak in the village’s natural mineral geothermal pool and spa.”

Happy hours, coffee mornings, potluck dinners and catered meals are held in the Village Centre.

“As an Ōmokoroa Country Estate resident, you can enjoy your well-deserved retirement right now!

“Welcome to Ōmokoroa Country Estate retirement village in Ōmokoroa, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty.”

after stroke, fatigue management, support in primary care, the NeuroEnablement Team, Aphasia, rehabilitation and exercise, and returning to work. Speakers include clinicians, people with lived experience, community organisations and SFNZ staff. Register by email: midland@stroke.org.nz Entry is a $10 donation with lunch provided.

The venue is wheelchair-accessible.

Friday 17 November 2023

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The Weekend Sun

The Weekend Sun

Friday 17 November 2023

27 news and views for the over 55s

Quilters immersed in their product: Helen Purllant and Helen Manning.

Photo: John Borren.

The artform of quilting Their handiwork is in bassinets at Tauranga Hospital’s neonatal unit.

They offer warmth, comfort and colour to the babies struggling at the beginning of life.

You’ll also see them on the beds at the Awhina House women’s shelter and Takitimu House men’s night shelter – bringing a little homeliness to the homeless. And a dying man chose one for a shroud rather than a coffin as he neared his end.

They’re quilts – the creation of about 65 members of the Tauranga Patchwork and Quilters Group.

“They’re comforting,” says 43-year-quilter Helen Purllant. “They’re something very personal. They’re also a very individual artwork.

“Each quilt is based on the maker’s personal experiences, imagery, colour preferences and ideas rather than just traditional patterns.”

Helen prefers her subtle, earthy tones. And the other Helen, Helen Manning, likes her bright colours.

Quilts – those multi-layered textiles – traditionally two or more layers of fabric with a filler material.

Originating in the 15th Century in Sweden, quilts were made from silk, wool and felt and were designed to be both decorative and functional. So nothing’s really changed in the intervening centuries, except that quilting enjoys immense popularity with more than 21 million quilters worldwide.

Hard core group

And there’s a hard core group here in Tauranga.

Twice-a-week, more than 60 members of the Tauranga Patchwork and Quilters Group meet at the Elizabeth St Community and Arts Centre.

Some patchworking, some quilting, and lots and lots of camaraderie.

Statistics tell us the average quilter is 65 years old, has been quilting for 10 years and spends at least six hours weekly at their craft. The USA is still the home of quilting – that’s why quilters the world over still work in Imperial feet, inches and yards.

But there’s a crossover. “So we end up with three or four metres of yardage,” jokes relative newcomer Helen Manning. She’s only been quilting for six or seven years. “At first I couldn’t be bothered.

“Too fiddley. But chopping up stuff and sewing it together is therapeutic.”

A stash

That ‘stuff’ is pure cotton fabrics, which can cost the thick end of $30 per metre...of yardage.

And there’s lots of yardage. “It’s hoarding,” says Helen Purllant. “Cupboards full of collected material that maybe one day will be used for patchworking and quilting. We call it a stash.

“You go to a show, or a fabric shop, something stands out and you think: ‘Gotta have that’,” says Helen Manning.

The annual International Quilt Festival in Houston, Texas, attracts 55,000 devotees from 35 countries, 1000 vendor stalls and more than 1600 quilts.

It’s big business. Even here in Tauranga, the group’s quilt shows attract more than 600 people during a few days. It’s an artform, a hobby that’s endured and flourished. Email Tauranga Patchworkers and Quilters Group at: helendonmckeown@gmail.com Or phone: 027 417 7581.

JOIN THE RETIREMENT REVOLUTION

Hunter Wells

“Here’s wishing you all the best .”

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Friday 17 November 2023

The Weekend Sun

28

Roadworks gang doing an amazing job!

My wife and I moved to Tauranga from Auckland six years ago and I now look forward to receiving my copy of The Weekend Sun every Friday.

My favourite section of the paper is Letters, not that many of them are that interesting, but because I like to see the same old names of the ‘Moaning Minnies’ crop up each week with their constant whinging and whining. It used to be about the city council, then the Commissioners and now it’s all about the roadworks.

It is obvious, when walking around Tauranga, that the infrastructure has been

Unemployment and inflation Unemployment figures released by Statistics NZ will have a significant effect on the New Zealand and local economy in the year or two ahead.

Our country, like the rest of the world, has been grappling with high inflation post-Covid.

Of course, high inflation is destructive for an economy so central banks seek to squash it with all their might, which means raising interest rates.

We’ve seen the effect of higher interest rates here mainly in higher mortgage rates, which causes lower consumer spending and reduces inflation. One item that hasn’t been working in the Reserve Bank’s favour however is the extremely tight labour market.

The unfortunate reality is when unemployment is very low, wages and costs for business will remain relatively high. Unemployment rates of three per cent-ish in the last few years is extremely low in historical terms. This holds back efforts to reduce inflation.

Changing

That equation seems to be changing at the moment however, with businesses far less confident in the economy than they’ve been in the past and some reports of insolvencies and redundancies. Unemployment rates show a jump to 3.9 per cent with many economists expecting it to move to around five per cent late-2024.

We can expect to see some fallout

Write to us

neglected for decades and will take a good deal of work to bring it up to scratch.

Obviously, this will take some considerable time and is causing major disruption, which we all have to live with.

Currently, we have one large group of the workforce engaged in extensive works outside our apartment, at the top of Elizabeth St and Tunks Reserve and, being retired, I have ample time to watch the work progress and marvel at the co-ordination and organisation the

from that locally, while many view our economy as stronger than NZ’s, we’ve seen a significant drop off in job ads.

Talking to employers, they are much more cautious but also wary that the talent market remains tight. While we can expect to see a reduction in hiring intentions, I think we’re a long way away from dramatic changes to unemployment locally.

work demands.

Neil and his gang are doing an amazing job, keeping residents informed and ensuring access for residents and businesses at all times, while working incredibly hard. If you stuck a tracker on some of these guys, you’d be amazed at the distance they cover in the working day and Neil should change his name to ‘Energiser Bunny’.

Sure, there are one or two who ‘lean on their shovels’ but this is true of any

What about Ukraine, Afghanistan and Sudan?

It’s heart-wrenching watching all the footage of the current conflict in the Gaza Strip and the mass shooting in Israel that preceded it. Night after night we Immigration see images on the TV news that The other large factor in freeing up a we wish weren’t happening. tight labour market is immigration.

But what irks me more is that with every new This is an area where NZ has seen or newly-ignited conflict, the TV news no longer dramatic change, with a net increase of updates us on how other conflicts around the 65,000 people in the last year. While this theoretically means more choice for world are playing out. Who now knows what’s employers, it creates extra infrastructure happening in Ukraine? And what about the women and girls of Afghanistan since the US requirements. Locally, this has a withdrew its forces from the country and let the spill-over effect with our population continuing to go up at a relatively high Taliban take over? What of them? We see and hear rate, 2.6 per cent last year. no news of them now... Did you even know there Unfortunately, increases to is a war in Sudan? Between Sudanese Armed Forces unemployment are a necessity if we and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, rival are to reduce inflation. From recent factions of the military government of Sudan. The stats it looks like the market is finally world is in a troubled place. If only there was more changing. While we can expect a more the civilians of non-conflicted countries could do subdued employment environment to stop the wars, stop the death and ease the heartin the short-term, this is needed for a ache. Because it seems leaders of countries around more balanced economy in the longer the world cannot stop these hideous events from term. After a wait and see to reducing playing out. Shame on them. inflation, we can now be confident we C Smith, Pāpāmoa. are on the right track.

workforce. I was in the British Merchant Navy for 10 years and you could always guarantee that, come time to ‘store-ship’, there were always the same faces making excuses to get out of doing the work.

The letter in The Sun recently, comparing roadbuilding in the flat, empty, Sinai Desert with Cameron Rd, is laughable, when you begin to understand what services and infrastructure are actually encorporated into the re-building of the road.

So keep up the moaning letters people, I look forward to my weekly chuckle.

Phil Saul, Tauranga City.

It’s only a game...

The majority of New Zealanders watched the Rugby World cup when the All Blacks were playing. Folk sat on the edge of their seats and watched with baited breath; every move was measured with a mental yard stick to ensure there was no infringement from the opposition.

Yet in reality, rugby is only a game, played with 30 people and a bag of wind called a ball. It was a game invented to amuse people and keep them fit.

Seriousness is not the intent of the game; it’s a pity the same seriousness does not apply to some folks’ driving.

A drunk player would not be allowed on the pitch minus their shorts but there are drivers quite happy to drive minus their safety belt.

We all must decide what is more important in life: The safety of others in our contact or that games should be perfectly played.

Ken Jones, Katikati.

Ambulance service needs govt funds!

The question for New Zealand is why is there no free ambulance in our country? Most countries have a free ambulance service – even Russia!

Instead of St John having to compete for charity funds beside Hospice and many other groups who volunteer and give their all to help others, the ambulance service should be free. St John ambulance should be fully tax-funded. When we can spend up to $300-plus million on a boat race, one has to wonder about common sense?

Is humanity dead in NZ? Ron Chamberlain, Otūmoetai.

The Weekend Sun

29

Friday 17 November 2023 THE WEEKEND SUN The Weekend Sun’s ever popular guide to ‘What’s On’ in the Bay.

Ice cream and sirens to connect community!

Sirens howling and sprinkles flying will be all in the name of encouraging community connection and safety this Sunday, November 19, at the Pāpāmoa Sports & Recreational Centre.

Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support is hosting the Sirens & Services Koha Ice Cream Day for people to learn more about the importance of keeping communities closeknit and safe.

“It’s really important that we keep connected and that people know each other – that they know their neighbours in order to feel safe within a community,” says event co-ordinator Rebecca Larsen.

With fire engines, police cars and ambulances on-site the family fun day will offer plenty of demonstrations and information to learn about how essential services care for our communities.

Here to Help You, Land Search & Rescue – known as LandSAR – Community Patrol NZ and

Fisheries NZ representatives will be on-site, plus Tauranga City Council’s Emergency Management Team. “They’ve got a virtual reality experience they’re bringing along about tsunamis and earthquakes,” says Rebecca.

The event will also support the Pāpāmoa Food Hub, which was created after the sudden closure of Pāpāmoa Family Services in September.

“That was sort of a catalyst to create a new entity, which can provide food parcels and care packages for those in need and also provide cooking classes,” says WBOPNS manager Bruce Banks, who spearheaded the food hub.

On the day people can bring a koha or food item in exchange for a free ice-cream loaded with sprinkles, wafers and toppings! A free familyfriendly event with kai, entertainment, sirens and more will be on offer – so bring your family along and meet your neighbourhood!

The Sirens & Services Koha Ice Cream Day is 10am-2pm at Pāpāmoa Sports & Recreational Centre – rain or shine!

Georgia Minkhorst

Comedy of the dilemmas that come with age!

New Zealand’s most popular and successful playwright, Sir Roger Hall, has been making us laugh at ourselves for more than five decades.

His latest outstanding comedy pays a glowing tribute to the holders of the Super Gold card.

It revisits not only his

Actors David Guy and Maggie Grigsby. Photo: supplied.

signature brilliance in comedy playwriting, but also two beloved characters who were at the heart of his smash-hit play, ‘Conjugal Rites’, which went on to become a popular British TV series in the 1990s.

In ‘Winding Up’, Boomers Barry and Gen are now enjoying retirement and, having celebrated their Golden Wedding, are facing the dilemmas that come with age.

Will they be able to go to London to visit their long distant grandchildren? Will they qualify for insurance? What about the body corporate? Is there too much damn clutter in their lives?

And does Barry’s neighbour really fancy him?

‘Winding Up’ is running at 16th Ave Theatre from November 24-December 9. Tickets can be purchased at: www.iticket.co.nz/venues/ tauranga/16th-avenue-theatre The Weekend Sun has two double passes for two lucky readers who can tell us the names of the Boomers in ‘Winding Up’.

Enter online at: www.sunlive.co.nz under the Competitions tab. Entries must be received by Tuesday, November 21.

Rebecca Larsen and Bruce Banks say everyone is welcome at the Sirens & Services Koha Ice Cream Day on November 19. Photo: Juan Cortes.

Friday 17 November 2023

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A Night Before Christmas returns...

Once again, a fantastic fireworks display will conclude this year’s A Night Before Christmas. Photo: supplied. supported by

Tauranga’s major community Christmas concert, A Night Before Christmas, has just launched its 2023 event with a spectacular lineup of music, dance, food and festivities.

Held on Saturday, December 16, the muchloved event will once again be at the beautiful Bethlehem College Fields, and hosted by the Bethlehem Baptist Church.

A Night Before Christmas has been running since 1996, and is one of the Bay of Plenty’s largest community events, with more than 10,000 people attending annually.

Started on the banks of the Wairoa River with 150 people, the event has grown considerably over the years, becoming a tradition for many families to attend year-after-year.

The full performance line-up for this year will be announced soon, with the event continuing

to support local artists including up-and-coming talent as well as acts who are making waves on the national stage.

A spot that is definitely on the bill is the hugely popular Christmas Carols segment, which will once again be provided by the Bethlehem Baptist Church band. And back by public demand, the night will also be capped off with a fantastic fireworks display.

A Night Before Christmas will continue its legacy of being a free community concert for thousands of families in the region.

The free tickets will be available on Thursday, November 16, at 9am, by visiting the website: www.anbc.co.nz Event organisers say that due to the demand seen last year, the area of the event has been increased so people don’t miss out. Attendees shouldn’t overstock their free tickets, and only book for those they know are coming.

Music inspired by Pegasus Bay of Plenty Symphonia is proud to present a new work

by Briar Prastiti this Sunday, November 19, at their ‘Masters of Melody’ concert.

Briar grew up on a farm surrounded by nature and animals in Tauranga. “I used to ride my horse down the forest track into a valley; and as soon as I turned the horse around, he livened up and galloped all the way back up.

“This to me, as a child, felt like flying. I’m passionate about folklore and mythology, and the noble companion of Zeus in Ancient Greek mythology is the flying horse ‘Pegasus’ – hence this title.

“The piece is playful and vigorous in the first half, and invokes the energy of the earthly horse with all of its

movement, senses, and rhythm.

“The middle part of the piece is much lighter and more ethereal, where you can imagine the earthly horse becoming the flying horse that is Pegasus. The starry quality in this section is reminiscent of the story of Zeus who turns Pegasus into a constellation.”

With several commissions completed this year during her New Zealand School of Music composer residency, living at the Douglas Lilburn residence, Briar is definitely a talent to hear.

‘Masters of Melody’ is on November 19 at 3pm at Holy Trinity Church, Devonport Rd. Tickets cost $20 for adults, or $25 at the door, and under-18s can attend without a ticket, from: www.eventfinda.co.nz

Briar Prastiti.

Learn of group’s conservation work at open day!

A Western Bay of Plenty volunteer care group is hosting an open day this Sunday, November 19, so people can learn more about their work.

Friends of the Blade, established in 2016, is dedicated to removing animal pests from a corner of the Kaimai-Mamaku bush near Whakamārama.

In the past seven years the group has removed 15,709 pest animals, including rats and mice, weasels, stoats, ferrets and possums from this pocket of bush.

Motivated by their love for the bush and birdlife,

the group is working towards the goal of a predator-free natural environment in our corner of Tauranga Moana.

The group’s Open Day is this Sunday, November 19. Those interested in learning about predator control are invited. Meet the group at the Blade carpark at the end of Whakamārama Rd, from 10am-noon. Volunteers will be in hi-vis, demonstrating trapping and monitoring equipment, guiding a short and easy bush walk and cooking a sausage sizzle for visitors.

The Weekend Sun

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Friday 17 November 2023

Blues & BBQS – but mainly blues!

This week it’s all about blues – and here’s an extravagant statement to open with...

It may sound like an exaggeration, but I reckon the NZ Blues & BBQ Festival 2023, happening at the end of the month in Rotorua, is as good as any blues festival I can remember in New Zealand.

This is the festival’s second year and the line-up is truly something special, from Midge Marsden, Australian slide guitar wizard Fiona Boyes and international high-flyer Grant Haua to Northland’s Legacy Band, Auckland’s Flaming Mudcats, guitarist Jim Kara, and Tauranga blues reps Rehaab, Kokomo and Robert Lock’s Loaded. And much, much more.

Pretty stunned

It’s all happening from next Friday, November 24, to Sunday, November 26, with the Sunday turned over to youth bands, competitions and workshops; and with music starting at 2.45pm Friday and 11.45am Saturday, running through till 10.30pm each night.

As someone who hangs out with people whom you might call the ‘hard-core’ elements New Zealand music icon Midge of New Zealand’s blues Marsden. Photo: supplied. community, I can collectively say that we are pretty stunned. And impressed.

Last year’s inaugural festival was good in many ways but seemed a little lacking in one key component: blues acts. We all assumed this year that things would most likely go the way of the old Blues, Brews & BBQs festivals.

For those who don’t remember, these were a series of immensely enjoyable festivals held around the country – I think there were about six – which spanned at least five, maybe 10 years. In a way they were ground-breaking, possibly even ahead

VERY EASY

SUDOKU

No.2213

of their time. Firstly, they ran with the BBQ idea years before the juggernaut of American BBQ hit these shores. These were sweet little Kiwi BBQs, not the industrial strength ‘as seen on television’ Pit Master Wars that Rotorua promises.

And they caught craft beer just before it was about to become ‘A Thing’. I believe there were even struggles initially to find enough craft brewers to take part, which seems unthinkable now...

But the first thing that got jettisoned was the ‘blues’.

Some of the events ignored the blues bit completely and just treated it as useful alliteration that meant “there will be music”.

Tauranga blues artist Grant Haua.

A few had a single Photo: GH Explosion. token blues band among three or four ‘regular’ bands. I think I only ever went to one, in Nelson, with a purely blues line-up.

Best blues line-up!

And that’s what we were assuming would happen in Rotorua.

Like I say, last year it was a bit patchy for blues purists with a lot of bands sort of ‘blues-adjacent’, like the Credence-playing blues-rock outfits you often hear at Blues Jams. So we all figured this year things would slide a little further.

But, no! As I started by saying, this is as good a blues line-up as I can remember seeing at one event in New Zealand. There’s even a second stage for solo acts. Fiona Boyes and Grant Haua are playing both with their bands, and without – overall it’s pretty damn close to brilliant. ******************************************** Hear Winston’s latest playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6Ew3zmhy3dck9PqhMkL1f D?si=3d33e6e5a0de4b09

JACK DUSTY’S (Bureta) Sat 18th Novac N Goode 2-5pm Sound Cartel 7.30-10.30pm Sun 19th Tim Armstrong 3-6pm How to solve Mon 20th Ukulele Players 6-7.30pm Sudoku!

Wed 22nd Open Mic Night 7-10.30pm

Hanna Wiskari and Tristan Hancock 7-9.30pm THE MATUA BAR Fri 17th T.J.S Blues Band 6.30-9.30pm Wed 22nd Open Mic Night 7-9.30pm (every Weds)

3 7 2 THE RISING TIDE Fri 17th & Sat 18th Live Fill the grid so that 2 1 6 5 4 3 music from 6.30pm MTrow MAUNGANUI RSA every and every Sun 19th Live music from 17th Gerry Lee 3x3Fri square contains 5 2.30pm 7-10.30pm 8 4 the digits 1 to 9 Sat 18th Woody Dean 7-10.30pm 7 9 6 TOTARA ST 4 Sun 19th Helen Riley 4.30Fri 17th Cosmic Psychos No.2212 9to solve 2 3Solution (Rock Punk) 8pm 2 1No.2213 4How 5 6 4 7.30pm 7 8 9 1 Sudoku!

Sat 18th Taylor Swift: 1989 1 8 9 5 2 3 4 6 7 9 Party 8pm 7 1 3 1 9 5 2WITH 7 6 THE 4 8FREEPORT 28 CLEAVER & CO 6 9 8 7 1 3 4 5 2 Fill the grid so that Fri 17th Dan Sharp 5-8pm VOODOO LOUNGE 7 6 25 4 83 every row and every 3 4 1 9 6 5 7 8 2 Sat 18th Groundhog Crew 5 2 8 7 3 4 9 1 6 contains 2 8 9pm 98 1 65 4 3x3thesquare 6 2 7 9 8 1 THE 3 4JAM 5 FACTORY digits 1 to 9 2 18th 3 9 Transglobal 1 6 5 8 Music Weds 22nd Voodoo Jam 4 7 Sat 1 9 night 9pm 6 2 7 8 1 3 2-4pm 9 5 Session/Workshop 4 6 4 5

SUDOKU

3 7 1 4 7 9 SolutionNo.2212 No.2212 Solution 9 2 1 How4to solve 2 3 5 6 4 7 8 9 1 1 8 9 5 2 3 4 6 7 8No.1622 9 Sudoku!

7 1 7 6 4 8 1 9 5 2 3 6 9 7 1 8 2 3 4 5 2 7 2 8 8Fill the grid so that 3 4 1 9 6 5 7 8 2 5 2 8 7 3 4 9 1 6 5 4 row and every 2 8 813456279 9 1 6every 3x3 square contains 4 7 2 3 9 1 6 5 8 1 the 5 digits 11 to99 9 5 6 2 7 8 1 3 4 7 Solution No.1621 3 3 2 8 6 1 4 7 9 5 5 7 1 2 9 8 6 3 4 9 4 6 7 5 3 2 1 8

No. 1861 Across 1. City (Nth. Is.) (8) 5. Pet name (8) 6. Lesion (5) 6. Native bird (4) 7. Entrance (7) 8. Native tree (4) 12. Make-up (8) 9. Singer (3,5) 14. Indecent (7) 10. Let in (5) 16. Approximately (7) 11. Shoved (6) 18. Elecronic mail (5) 13. Renounce (6) 20. Material (5) 15. Sullen (6) 21. Close by (4) 17. Respect (6) T O O T E M T C I D A P H 19. Split open (5) H F R O G A T H E R I N G 22. Banter (8) R A G E E N L I M A T E S 23. River (Nth. Is.) (4) O E A C B U L L I B L U E B U N K D K G L X E MM T 24. Ardour (4) A N C N G A T I P O R O U 25. Transporting (8) Y P L I OWG T O G A N O J O N T R I MM E R K I M Down A P T A I N G O T E L A N 2. Trophy (5) D U C K E S P R Y I O L A Z L P A E I I T I C O O K 3. Visualize (7) K E S B A Y E S V E 4. Musical instrum- HF RA W T A E T E L O S E N D ent (4) Solution 1860

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public notices BAYPARK TO BAYFAIR LINK CLOSURE OF STATE HIGHWAY 29A Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency wishes to advise that State Highway 29A will be closed between the Maungatapu roundabout and SH2/ SH29A Te Maunga interchange from Sunday 19 November to Friday 24 November 2023 (approximately 7pm to 5am each night) to prepare asphalt around the SH29A roundabout at Baypark for the application of final surfacing.

Truman Lane will also be closed from Mangatawa Link Road to the SH29A roundabout, with access to Truman Lane businesses and Baypark only maintained via Sandhurst interchange.

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During these hours, a signposted detour via State Highway 2, Elizabeth Street, Cameron Road, Fifteenth Avenue, Turret Road/Hairini bridge and Welcome Bay Link Road will apply for light vehicles. A signposted detour via State Highway 2, SH29 Takitimu Drive and SH29A will apply for heavy vehicles.

In the event of bad weather or unforeseen circumstances, the closure may be moved to the next suitable nights.

Waka Kotahi thanks road users and local residents for their patience.

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SURELY YOUR GOODNESS and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Psalms 23:6

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Mums are jumping in and becoming ‘masters’ in the pool – testing out their own abilities of grace and coordination!

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Tauranga Artistic Swimming Club believe synchronised swimming isn’t just for the youngins but for the young at heart too. That’s why the club has created their new Masters Synchro Group to give parents and adults a fun and safe space to try out this beautiful sport.

Head coach Suzie Riberio says the aim of the masters group is to learn the skills and techniques associated with artistic swimming, while having fun at the same time.

“As we get older we tend not to challenge ourselves or try new things, but the Masters Class is designed to give people the confidence to give things a go and encourage others to do the same.”

Suzie says the class has attracted mums whose children take part in synchro. “It’s been really good because they see their daughters and children doing it, and now they’re doing it too.

“It’s just a bit of fun and the mums love it because it’s something that they never thought

they would do. I’m a mum myself, so it’s great to see them doing something different.”

Tanzi Hume, who has a daughter who enjoys synchro swimming, has been loving the Masters Class. “It’s a great workout for the body and mind,” says Tanzi. “It challenges me in new ways and pushes me outside of my comfort zone.

“It’s lots of good laughs too!”

Also giving her children’s sport a whirl is Lorna Claydon. “What I love about masters synchro is the belly laughs and learning something totally new,” says Lorna. “Suzie is a great masters coach.

“She starts with each of us where we are at.”

Suzie says anyone “20 something” and above is welcome to try out the class. “Even if you don’t know about synchro, but ideally we say you have to be comfortable in the water and can swim 25 metres freestyle or any other stroke.”

The class is currently working towards performing a routine at the club’s Christmas Display on November 25. “They’re a bit nervous, but I think they’re more excited!” says Suzie.

For more information, email Jess Briggs at: info.taurangasynchro@gmail.com

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HANDYMAN Free quotes, water blasting, painting, repairs odd jobs Phone Rossco 027 270 3313 ROOF REPAIRS Free quotes for all maintenance of leaking roofs, gutter cleaning & repairs. Chimney maintenance & repairs. Registered roofer, 30yrs exp. Ph Peter 542 4291 or 027 436 7740

Shioban O’sullivan, Lorna Claydon and Tanzi Hume have been enjoying the Masters Synchro Group.

Photo: supplied.

Churches Active In Our Community

The reference point for humanity...

Stephen Whitwell, C3 City Church, Tauranga.

la tyb

Messianic Family Messianic Family

ALL WELCOME ALL WELCOME SHALOM SHALOM

You are welcome to worship with us each Sabbath (Saturday)

SABBATH 10AM SABBATH 10AM OTUMOETAI PRIMARY OTUMOETAI PRIMARY

St Andrews Church, Dee St, Mt Maunganui Bible Study 9:30am • Worship Service 10:45am Enquiries 021 277 1909

We look forward to seeing you! mtmaunganui.adventist.org.nz

Churches ST PETERS

70 Pooles Rd Phone (07) 541 2182 Cnr. Cameron Rd & Spring St www.stpeters.org.nz www.stjamestauranga.co.nz Phone 578 9608 Rev Enosa Auva’a Rev Philipp Potgieter 10.00am Family Service 10.30am Morning Worship Contemporary

ST ANDREWS

EVANS RD COMMUNITY Cnr Macville Rd & Dee St Mt Maunganui Phone 575 9347 CHURCH, PAPAMOA 30 Evans Road Phone 574 6190 10.00am Family Service

021 768 043 021 768 043

info@bethel.org.nz info@bethel.org.nz bethel.org.nz bethel.org.nz

ST PAULS

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Joel & Sharon van Ameringen Joel & Sharon van Ameringen

www.mountchurch.org.nz Rev. Douglas Bradley 9.00am Traditional Service 10.30am Contemporary Service

242 Dickson Road, Papamoa Rev Philipp Potgieter Ph 020 4010 7364 9.00am Morning Worship 10.00am Fellowship

ST COLUMBA

502 Otumoetai Rd Phone 576 6756 www.stcolumba.co.nz Rev. Sandra Warner 9.30am Worship Service

BETHLEHEM COMMUNITY CHURCH

183 Moffat Rd Phone 579 1600 www.bcchurch.co.nz 9.30am Worship Service

ST ENOCHS

134 16th Avenue Phone 578 3040 www.stenochs.org.nz Rev. Jaco Reyneke 9.30am Morning Worship

S2335cbStpeters

We don’t agree with what’s happening, we can’t do much to change things, and we get mad about it.

But none of those options help.

It boils down to the fact that humanity needs a reference point, a stake in the ground, which is the point around which everything revolves, and is anchored to. It becomes that great southern star which guides us. It becomes the standard for everything. Right and wrong, good and bad are determined by it. A reference point

sets everything that follows in order. Life works Replace CHURCH CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE when there’s a solid, unmovable, dependable with reference point.St Andrews Church, Dee St, Mt Maunganui Bible Study two 9:30ampeople - Worshiphave Service 10:45am Clashes occur when different views aboutAlso what it should be, which replace the words: are incompatible.

Wars have ONLINE SERVICES ONLY andMountSDA@gmail.com will be fought over these different views.

With: We look forward to seeing you!

Time is one good test of many things, and it is a great test of the outcomes of various reference points.

The Bible presents God as ‘the’ reference point for all humanity.

Societies have come and gone, but those peoples who have made God, His love and His word their reference point have found a point of reference for life that works. Why not check out why this is so, by reading God’s love letter, the Bible.

S2214cbMount

How do we keep our sense of identity when around us things are going on which defy basic humanity? It’s almost like we want to distance ourselves from identifying as a human being, when we hear and see some of the atrocities and horrendous assaults against innocent people.

BETH -- EL BETH EL la tyb

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