The Weekend Sun - 3 May 2024

Angling for ladies

Fly shing doesn’t have to just be a men’s thing. If you want to become a woman who can y sh, join the Tauranga Anglers Club for some fun on May 25-26.

“No equipment is needed, just a willingness to learn and to make new friends,” says club

secretary Jill Sweeney, who is pictured in the background of this shot, casting a y line, with fellow club member Suzie Foggo up front.

Jill hopes the event also encourages women to become members of the freshwater anglers club, which o ers opportunities to gain

experience and knowledge in technical skills of y shing and the environmental issues of the sport.

“More club memberships will enhance and increase the angling resources for women in this area, whilst providing a social group.

“So if you’ve wondered if you’d like to y sh, this event is for you.

“Meeting other women, nding new friends and trying something you may not have been able to before – what is there to lose?”

Read more on page 10.

Photo: John Borren.

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Bah humbug coastal path!

Wouldn’t life be easier if we didn’t have to deal with people?

e attention seekers, the moaners and the self-entitled, the sel sh, the fakes, the bullies, the complainers, the yellers and insulters, the arrogant and the condescending. e sort of people that can derail your day. e passive aggressors, the unreliable and Crusaders apologists. at just about covers it.

All sounds a bit petulant but the day didn’t start out like that. No! It started gloriously with a rush of feel-good hormones as we cycled up onto the eastern end of the Marine Parade coastal path. e mind, mood and body had surged into a great space at a great place.

Okay – I know the path’s been there since last year. But not in my world. We have just connected. ree kilometres’ long – weaving, rising and dipping through the dunes parallel to the beach, but unparalleled in its stunning-ness. It’s a track that nature deemed should be there but it took some visionary planner at city hall to gure it and make it happen. Dancing dune grasses, a vast expanse of white sands, the constant beat of ocean waves spilling on the shore and the theme from ‘Jaws’ as another evil 2m bronze whaler lurks in the waves. And all on a balmy autumnal day. Cracker!

“ ey’re all b*****ds,” decided the oldest member. “ ey crave attention even if it’s bad attention. And when they get it, it doesn’t matter that it’s negative attention, that’s enough for them.”

Oh dear. Perhaps his lycra was too tight on the ride – clawing at the groin. It was also suggested that perhaps the coastal path chaos was all about inadequacy and envy – gazing on all the garishly expensive real estate across Marine Parade and then going home to push-mow the lawns at their ‘entry level’ existence in Fraser Cove.

grasp ‘keeping left’, what can we expect of a French Bulldog – they all drive on the right.

“At 4m wide, the pathway provides ample width for multiple users,” says the council blurb. Well yes, you would think. And… “all are encouraged to share with care”.

Short of helping mow the lawns, how can we improve the experience on the Marine Parade?

We all know right from wrong because driving on the right is wrong, and left is right. Understand? You just do it. So why do we go troppo on shared pathways?

Tell that to Priscilla and Peter who’ve just bumped into Marg and Andy on the coastal path. ey’re apping their gums, discussing hip replacements and South Seas holiday destinations. ey’ve taken out a land claim on the middle of the path, they’re not moving and are oblivious to the tra c problems they’re generating around them.

And why is it my responsibility to get out of the way of a 10-year-old sucking a smoothie while riding an electric skateboard. “You are just so cute and clever Amelia-Rose!” No, you’re not.

Protocol cops?

Perhaps we need a couple of protocol cops on the Coastal Path to chat to the Amelia-Roses, perhaps a centre-line, perhaps a few well-placed ‘Don’t be a dick!’ signs.

But the cracker goes soft and inedible when you introduce ‘people’ to the equation – people with attitude, and probably hangovers, unleashed dogs, errant bikes and trikes, and gossip groups taking their soy chai lattes for a stroll, and aged $15,000 Ebike packages with grizzled faces whose perception of sharing the space is riding the middle of the path.

Lack of self-awareness...

A friend remarked about “the lack of self-awareness”. People, she said, who didn’t give a toss about how their behaviour impacts on someone else’s experience. “It has come to this,” she said despondently.

Why do we veer across the invisible white line and expect everyone to get out of our way. ere’s no statute ordering us to keep left on the trails, but general etiquette suggests it’s a good idea. It would save head-on collisions, bad language, abuse and broken bikes and bones.

Share with care

So you’ve spent $5000 on a French Bulldog, and it maybe your complete “dotes”, but not all of us have to like it. We will respect ‘Milo’s’ right to be on the coastal path – but please keep him on a leash! I can fall o my bike without the help of a dog in the middle of its socialisation lesson. And if the owner can’t

en I’m told to go take an antacid, to stop being crotchety and cranky. e higgledy-piggledy, muddled, jumbled nature of the tra c on the coastal path is apparently part of the essential charm. e trail becomes an extension of life at home. Families spend all week herding kids and animals and bikes and trikes and then they transfer their chaos to the trail for a change of scenery and relaxation. And a lot of people spend their week regimented by work and other commitments – organised, controlled, disciplined. And come the weekend they can abandon all those strictures and free wheel on the trail. It’s therapy. Fair enough. I understand. Forget everything.

Editor:

Editorial: Letitia Atkinson, Alisha Evans, Rosalie Liddle Crawford, Georgia Minkhorst, Hunter Wells, Ayla Yeoman. Photography: John Borren. Publications Manager: Kathy Sellars. Advertising: Jo Delicata, Karlene Sherris, Suzy King, Lois Natta, Sharon Eyres, Sophie Main. Design Studio: Kym Johnson, Amy Bennie, Caitlin Burns. O ce: Angela Speer, Tyler Boyle.

Carparks taken over by buses

Buses parked across carparks in the Tauranga CBD and ‘Not in Service’ buses stationed for hours at Durham St bus stops has got one city resident frustrated.

Bruce Porter, an observant city dweller, says the powers at be are “making a hash” of where buses park when they’re not in service. He’s noticed buses being parked at the Durham St bus stop for hours at a time.

“What they’re doing is using [the Durham St Bus stops] as a changeover point,” says Bruce.

“ e drivers go down into Wharf St and have their cups of co ee, and go back – but there might be 14, 15 buses parked. It’s a pick up and drop o point, not park and leave them for hours.”

Bruce says this has been going on for about two-and-a-half years. “I’ve also started to notice that they’re starting to park outside the district courthouse across carparks.

“ ey just seem ad hoc. Drivers just pull up in the carparks.

“Parking is at premium around here [in the CBD] and they’re just making a mockery of it as far as I’m concerned.”

Bruce says there needs to be a designated area for buses to park when they are not in use.

“ ey should have an area for buses to go park somewhere, not taking up valuable land that should be used for carparks. ey should have an area,

where they locate themselves and park.”

As it happens, at Tauranga City Council’s meeting on Monday, April 29, council discussed just that –highlighting the need of a speci c bus “layover”.

“We’ve been working with the [Bay of Plenty] regional council to nd locations in or near the city centre where layovers can occur o -street,” says TCC team leader of transport development Tom McEntyre.

“We acknowledge that it’s not ideal to have buses parked or idling in the city centre, and we have a long-term agreement with the regional council to reduce the number of layovers in the area.”

Tom says council is currently in negotiations to secure a layover location that they expect will hold 10 buses at a time for scheduled breaks and waiting between services. At Monday’s meeting, the location discussed was the empty site at 199 Cameron Rd.

In response to Bruce witnessing buses parking across carparks outside the courthouse, Tom says new layover locations are being used in the city due to works occurring in the area.

“Having said this, the location you’ve mentioned, is not intended to be occupied by buses and we’ll be reinforcing approved locations with the bus operator through the regional council,” says Tom. “ is potential for confusion will be greatly reduced once the o -street layover space is in use.”

Georgia Minkhorst

A ‘Not In Service’ bus parked across carparks at the front of Tauranga District Courthouse.

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Links Ave Reserve upgrade

We now know who

“My feelings are all over the place! Poor Jessie.” Pauline McCowan, the Western Bay Museum volunteer whose research set e Weekend Sun on the trail of ‘Jessie’ –the uninym, the enigma, the love interest, in the World War II battlefront diary of Katikati soldier Lieutenant Russell Freeland Walford. e 29-year-old was killed in the Italian campaign in December 1943.

Jessie Alice Clague, formerly of Katikati, then nursing sister at Auckland Public Hospital.

A curious reader, unrelated to e Weekend Sun’s ‘Who’s Jessie?’ story last edition, provided a lead when he uncovered a 1941 newspaper notice. “ e engagement is announced between Sergeant Russell F. Walford …and Jessie Alice, only daughter of Mr and Mrs J.T.Clague, Katikati.”

Plans are in play to revamp Links Avenue Reserve, with the introduction of Tauranga’s rst arti cial, carbon neutral turf dedicated to football. Tauranga City Council spaces and places manager Alison Law says the arti cial turf will assist city-wide pressures by bolstering football eld capacity year-round, while optimising space utilisation. “Football’s popularity in Tauranga and the wider Bay of Plenty region is soaring, necessitating investments like these to meet the escalating demand. is initiative aims to cater to existing and future football needs, foster talent development initiatives, and encourage greater community involvement.” e turf will be ready for 2025’s football season.

Duck shooting opening season

He left behind his 1940 diary with dozens of heartfelt references to the mysterious ‘Jessie’. When e Weekend Sun published the story of the soldier’s little red leather diary, ‘Jessie’ was just a Christian name. No-one knew who she was.

But the mystery has been solved. We can give ‘Jessie’ a surname, a face and a backstory.

“Yes, my Aunt Jessie,” con rmed Russell Clague when e Weekend Sun made a guesswork call to Russell’s Whitianga phone number last week.

Aunt Jessie was Jessie Alice Clague.

It’s understood Walford returned home during the war to train soldiers to drive tanks. Perhaps that’s when he proposed? Even then, the couple was cheated of a date at the altar. Walford was killed in 1943 during the Italian campaign. “Bloody war!” says Pauline, who transcribed 365 days of entries in the little red diary that now sit safely in Western Bay Museum.

A wedding

Hunters around Aotearoa have their ngers and toes crossed for foul weather this weekend with the game bird season getting underway. Fish & Game New Zealand CEO Corina Jordan says a good breeding season means opening weekend looks promising. Jordan will join scores of hunters gathering wild, free-range game birds during the long hunting season NZ has. “New Zealand has plenty of options for game bird hunters; it’s more than just opening weekend. Kiwi hunters can hunt game birds throughout winter.” About 60,000 will enjoy the wild this opening weekend.”

Measles warning e number of children becoming susceptible to measles is growing by about 1000 a month, according to public health experts. e gure is highlighted in a brie ng paper by the Public Health Communication Centre, a group of leading doctors and public health researchers. Childhood immunisation rates are stuck on about 82 per cent, and for years have been below the 95 per cent needed for population-wide immunity. Conditions are now “primed” for a big epidemic, the brie ng authors say. ey are very similar to the big epidemics of the ‘80s and ‘90s, with the added danger that there are now more unprotected young adults, say brie ng authors.

Meteors in NZ

Andrew Savage was working the security guard late shift at Bayfair Mall when he saw a strange glare light up one of the security screens. Reviewing the footage, he saw a light falling from the sky believed to be a meteor. “It was pretty cool to have captured it because you don’t see something like that very often.” e footage was taken 2.41am last Sunday, with Andrew saying it fell near Farm St in Mount Maunganui. Tauranga Astronomical Society president David Grieg says it was a slightly bigger than average meteor. According to NASA, meteors are bits of rocks and ice ejected from comets as they move in their orbits about the sun.

As a “wee fella” Russell would holiday with Aunt Jessie in Blockhouse Bay, Auckland. “She was really nice, loved her.”

A lead

And so, when Lieutenant Russell Walford fondly entered: “...wrote to Jessie between air raids” in his little red leather bound diary on Sunday May 12, 1940, he was referring to

But out of loss and grief came love and marriage. It was 1948. “A wedding took place recently at St Peters Church, Katikati, when Jessie Alice, only daughter of Mr and Mrs J.T.Clague was married to John, younger son of Mrs G.Gardner of Auckland.” It was a

“very pretty” wedding.

“ e bride wore a low waisted gown of white faconne with a high neckline and tting bodice”.

“Well, I hope it was a long and happy marriage,” says Pauline. It was hope ful lled. Jessie and John were married for 54 years and had ve children, the only daughter being Debbie who lives in Auckland. “She was wonderful – always there for us.” So the great nurse was a great Mum. “She had a wonderful sense of

Left: Jessie Alice Clague about the time she met husbandto-be John Gardner. Photo: supplied.

Right: Jessie’s rst love – Lieutenant Russell Walford, killed 1943 in the Italian campaign. Photo: supplied.

Bottom: Russell Walford’s little red diary. Photo: John Borren.

this ‘Jessie’ was

knowing when you were sick and how to look after you without being in your face.”

Debbie lost her Mum in 2009, just short of her ninetieth birthday. “Even now when I am sick, I think: ‘Where are you Mum?’” e nurse is gone, but she’s still called upon 15 years later.

Another nearly lost And WWII, which had claimed one love of Jessie’s just about claimed another. Because John Gardner, service number 33411, of the Second Expeditionary Force, became Prisoner of War serial number 7525 after his capture in Greece. He spent the war in Stalag XVIII-A – a WWII German Army ‘Wehrmacht’ POW camp – in Austria. Gardner survived bullets and bombs, the ravages of a POW camp and typhus, but came home with tuberculosis – “white death”.

It hospitalised him for a year and nephew Russell remembers the soldier being “pretty crook”. ey “ attened” a lung – arti cial pneumothorax, the rst positive treatment for TB. at, and light, and love, and hope worked for the soldier. Because one evening in 1947 Jessie Clague stepped out from the Auckland Hospital nurses’ home on a blind date.

‘Jessie’

big nose.” Debbie chuckles. And he played the mouth organ. e allround Dad who adored his ‘Jessie’.

“Yes, a good man, good father and a good husband.” And despite the war, and TB, he would live to 86.

A really decent bloke

Jessie would talk of Russell Walford. “Not often, and not much, but he wasn’t a secret.

“She told us they were engaged,” recalls Debbie.

And when told that museum researcher Pauline McCowan held

Walford up as a “really decent bloke” after reading his diary, Debbie could “absolutely” believe it. “I can’t imagine Mum being engaged to someone who wasn’t.”

A beautiful outcome

And after losing one good man, she’d been blessed with another. “ at is a beautiful outcome,” says Pauline. Now Debbie wants to read the little red diary – to learn more of the man who loved her Mum. Pauline will make that happen.

Waiting for her was John Gardner in a rather sharp jacket. Everything clicked for soldier and nurse. ey would marry, raise a family and grow hot house tomatoes in Blockhouse Bay.

“Mum wasn’t academic but very practical,” says Debbie. And she was a bit more serious. Dad, or John, on the other hand, was a bit of a hard case.

“Reasonably good-looking, dark hair…and a

Hunter Wells

nds happiness – marrying John Gardner in Katikati in 1948. Left: eir wedding invitation. Photos: supplied.

Partial closure of popular cycleway

A section of the Ōmokoroa to Tauranga cycleway, in the Lynley Park area, will be closed for several weeks, from this coming Monday, May 6, while important wastewater works are taking place.

Due to the terrain, a bypass is not possible, so the 120m section of track, from Lakeside Terrace, will be completely blocked o during this time, according to Western Bay of Plenty District Council.

e work includes a wastewater pump station, which is necessary for an adjoining subdivision.

is section of trail is currently on

private land, but it will eventually be vested to council as part of the subdivision consent.

While there is an alternative route, it is much longer and may not be a suitable choice for all users. Cyclists and walkers are advised to view a map of the area on the council’s website if they are planning to take this route.

e cycleway closure will be clearly sign-posted and people are urged to stay safe, by keeping out of the area during this time.

Depending on the weather, the section of trail is expected to remain closed for up to six weeks.

Rededication of Gate Pā pou

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is year’s 160th anniversary of the Battle of

Hundreds of people turned out before dawn on the 160th anniversary of the Battle of Gate Pā/Pukehinahina for the special unveiling and blessing of the refurbished pou that line Cameron Rd at the Pukehinahina Reserve below St George’s Anglican Church.

Painted black to re ect the battle and its outcome, the eight carved pou face towards Mauao and represent the various tribes that took part in the Battle of Gate Pa, as well as the Imperial Forces.

ey are carved from six pine logs and two tōtara logs and represent iwi participation in the 1864 Battle of Gate Pā | Pukehinahina and the link to their whenua.

e carving of these pou was overseen by the late kaumātua Peri Reweti Kohu during weeks and

months leading up to the 150th commemoration of the Battle of Gate Pā, Pukehinahina in 2014.

Return of taiaha

is year’s 160th commemoration of the Battle of Gate Pa included the presentation of a special taiaha and document at Pukehinahina on April 29. e taiaha belonged to Enoka Te Whanake, a great leader among his Ngāi Te Rangi iwi, and was used in the 1864 Gate Pā Battle.

After the Tauranga bush campaign and battles, Enoka Te Whanake became close friends with Whangamata gold mine owner Nathan Goldwater, and to immortalise this friendship, Enoka gifted Nathan his taiaha.

Since then the taiaha has stayed with the Goldwater family, until 2017, when Aaron Goldsmith started the process of returning it to the people of Tauranga from Australia where it has been kept safe. e pandemic delayed this but the taiaha and a signed document legally acknowledging its return have now been presented on Pukehinahina to commemorate 160 years since the battle there.

Rosalie Liddle Crawford

Gate Pā included the rededication of the Gate Pā pou and the presentation of a special taiaha. Photos: Sarah Webb.

e Pou representing Māori commander Rawiri Puhirake.

Two Western Bay of Plenty communities are facing by-elections with nominations now open for a vacant Maketu-Te Puke councillor seat, and a seat on the Ōmokoroa Community Board.

e Maketu-Te Puke ward by-election was prompted by the passing of rst-term councillor Richard Crawford on March 30.

Ōmokoroa Community Board’s by-election was sparked by the immediate resignation of member Greig Neilson.

Electoral O cer Warwick Lampp opened the by-election process for both areas on April 24 –with nomination papers now available to pick up and the electoral roll available for inspection.

To be eligible to stand for election, a candidate must be enrolled as a Parliamentary elector; be a New Zealand citizen; and be nominated by two electors within the nominee’s respective voting area.

If more than one nomination is received by the time nominations close for each by-election at

midday May 22, a postal ballot will be held.

If voting is required for the Maketu-Te Puke ward councillor seat or the Ōmokoroa Community Board seat, they will run concurrently from June 26 to midday July 18.

Both by-elections must be held to ll the vacant seats because it is more than 12 months before the next Local Body Election in 2025.

Whoever is successful in the Maketu-Te Puke ward by-election will join WBOP Deputy Mayor John Scrimgeour, Grant Dally and Andy Wichers as councillors for that area.

e winner of the Ōmokoroa Community Board seat will represent their community alongside Ben Bell, Peter Presland and Allan Hughes.

By-election nomination papers are now available from Te Puke Library and Service Centre, Ōmokoroa Library and Service Centre, Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s Main O ce at Barkes Corner and online at: www.westernbay.govt.nz/council/elections. Or call the Electoral 0800 number – 0800 398 683.

Europe the next!

A Tauranga 16-year-old who broke her back in 2023’s downhill mountain biking national championships has this year used the same competition to book a spot in an overseas World Series in her chosen sport.

Te Kura correspondence school student Eliana Hulsebosch fractured her back competing at the New Zealand DH National Championships in 2023. Fast-forward to February this year – and she won the Junior Women’s title in the same competition with a time of 3:11.58. Now, Ellie has been signed by a team to head to Europe in April for the 2024 UCI Mountain Bike World Series and World Championship.

Seven countries

“ ere are seven races in the World Series circuit and World Championships, which are based in seven countries across Europe and in Canada,” says Eliana –known as Ellie. She will compete in the Downhill section of the competitions – at Fort William in Scotland from May 3-5, Bielsko-Biała in Poland from May 17-19, Leogang in Austria from June 7-9, Val di Sole in Italy from June 14-16 and

Haute-Savoie in France from June 25-July 7. She then heads to the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships at Pal Arinsal/Vallnord in Andorra from August 28-September 1, then back onto the World Series circuit in Loudenvielle, France, from September 6-8, and nally heads to Canada’s Mont-SaintAnne from October 4-6.

Pre-season camp

“It will be my rst year as a Junior so I’m just going to try and soak up as much knowledge from others as I can and do my best in the races,” says Ellie, who ies with teammate Lachie Stevens-Mcnab to meet the rest of her team in Italy for a pre-season team camp before the rst race in Scotland.

Back to the February race, Ellie did better than she expected – versing the three best Junior women riders in the world. “It was really nerve-racking but I just did my best. [I] Made a few mistakes but I was so proud of the progress from last year...I was so pumped on improving that I just had heaps of fun and it was a good bonus to get the win.”

Ellie, who admits the sport is not for the faint-hearted –“sometimes you have to hold on and pray that you make it through a gnarly section” – is motivated by her progress every day. “Someone who I like to listen to talk about work ethic is

Learn

Racing mountain bikes since the age of 10, Ellie reckons she’s super lucky to get picked by a team for 2024’s UCI Mountain Bike World Cup calendar as it means less stress to place at NZ races.

“To qualify you either have to go to races that provide certain points depending on how you place – the other way is to get picked by a team,” says Ellie, who now trains 10 times a week.

“My training is speci ed to focus on my weaknesses as hard as that is, and every few months it changes to ramp up leading into the World Series season.

“ e main goals are to learn as much as possible, have fun and eventually be the best in the world for Elite women.

Electric blanket warning for winter

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is urging caution when using electric blankets this winter.

FENZ community education manager Adrian Nacey says Coroner Mark Wilton’s ndings of a fatal re in Wellington highlight the dangers of not replacing old electric blankets and having them on while sleeping. An 82-year-old woman died from smoke inhalation after her electric blanket caught re while she was sleeping on January 3, 2023. “With colder weather approaching, people will be pulling their electric blankets out from storage.

“It is important people understand that when they are damaged or not used correctly, they can present danger.

“Electric blankets should only be

used to warm the bed before you get in it. Always make sure your electric blanket is turned o before you go to sleep. Electric blankets should be placed at on beds and people should make sure controls and cords are not twisted or caught between the mattress and the base of the bed. [Also] Make sure heavy objects aren’t placed on the bed when the blanket is in use.”

Adrian says you can check for hotspots in an electric blanket by turning it on high for 15 minutes, then switching it o and running a hand over the blanket. “Make sure your electric blanket is less than ve years old – and at the rst sign of wear, it needs to be replaced or checked by a registered electrician.”

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“I just love the sport. Being out in nature and riding with no worries with your mates is the best feeling. I get to challenge myself and see myself grow, which is a pretty cool feeling,” says Ellie, who thanks her parents “for being supportive through all my riding, training and races and our local mountain bike community who have fostered my love for mountain biking”.

Ayla Yeoman

Kobe Bryant [the late American professional basketball player], and his interviews really help me work hard when I don’t want to.”

Downhill mountain biker

Eliana Hulsebosch doing what she loves.

Photo: Cam Mackenzie.

Facilities fund open for applications

Groups in the Western Bay of Plenty which manage community facilities are invited to apply for funding for upgrades and improvements.

WBOP District Council’s Facilities in the Community Fund is open for applications until 5pm on May 21.

e $100,000 contestable fund is available every two years to community-managed facilities that are used by the public but aren’t on public land, including facilities run by sports clubs, schools and volunteer organisations. To be eligible, a

project must have a minimum total value of $10,000, be in response to signi cant growth and cannot replace or duplicate an existing recreational facility in the same area. is year’s successful candidates will be selected by a sub-committee of councillors Don waites, Anne Henry and Andy Wichers. e panel will consider each application according to a set of criteria to ensure fair and objective results. Find out more at: www.westernbay.govt.nz/ community/grants-and-funding

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fly fishing

Bay of Plenty women have the chance to gain reel y shing expertise at a ladiesonly event this month that will teach them everything they need to know to start the hobby.

Tauranga Anglers Club is hosting the two-day event on May 25-26 to introduce novice and beginner women anglers to the sport of y shing.

Club secretary Jill Sweeney says the event is women-only because ladies learn new skills in a di erent way to men, and this o ering will give them the space to do so.

“ is is an opportunity to discover all aspects of y shing without committing to anything permanent,” says Jill.

e basics covered

“No equipment is needed –just a willingness to learn and to make new friends,” says Jill.

“I welcome any questions or queries before registration.”

Jill hopes BOP women will hook into the hobby and make new connections with likeminded women via this event.

“And [they can] gain a social group of shing buddies to then be able to arrange shing trips and outings, or just talk shing.”.

Day one is based at Tauranga Anglers Dive Club at Sulphur

Point from 8.30am-5pm. is will cover topics from learning basic y shing knots, how to put equipment together, explore accessories to help make a day’s shing successful, to understanding key aspects of personal safety and equipment when preparing for a day out on the water. Ladies will also learn basic overhead y casting and correct techniques of casting a y line.

Day two is at e Hatchery, Eastern Fish & Game o ce, Paradise Valley Rd, Ngongotaha from 8.30am-12 noon.

“Day two will give an opportunity to learn about the care of trout and their environment, a space to improve casting skills learnt the day before and a shared lunch to continue the social side of the event.

“ at afternoon women will be able to go shing on Lake Rotorua with a very experienced mentor and maybe even catch a sh! ere will be enough practical tuition so anyone attending can be con dent in the equipment, and the skills needed to be safe, but potentially start catching sh straight away.”

Jill says the event aims “to create a safe and welcoming environment in which women can learn about all aspects of y shing that has not been available before”.

“[It’s also] To give women in the area more information about our freshwater anglers club.”

Jill says being a club member o ers opportunities to gain experience and knowledge in the technical skills of y shing and the environmental issues of the sport.

Enhance resources

“More club memberships will enhance and increase the angling resources for women in this area, whilst providing a social group with monthly meetings, shing trips and competitions – in fact, all aspects of belonging to a club.”

e May 25-26 ladies-only event is ticketed at $50 per lady for two days plus $30 for Saturday’s refreshments. Spaces are limited to 15 to allow everyone a real hands-on learning and quality time with mentors, says Jill. “A Fish & Game Day Licence will be needed on day two of shing on Lake Rotorua $24 for 24 hours,” says Jill.

“So if you’ve wondered if you’d like to y sh, this event gives you that opportunity. Meeting other women, nding new friends and trying something you may not have been able to before – what is there to lose?”

Registrations are open – to enquire, email Jill at: taurangaanglers@gmail.com

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Ayla Yeoman

Suzie Foggo and Jill Sweeney just love the hobby of y shing! Photo: John Borren.

Relief as distinctive paddles recovered

A collective sigh of relief is what a top Tauranga dragon boating team – which is preparing to represent the Bay of Plenty and New Zealand internationally –is feeling this week.

Thousands of dollars’ worth of specialist dragon boating gear that was stolen last weekend has been recovered by Police.

However, the BOP Dragon Flyers are still devastated to have lost personal belongings as they were

celebrating their best season ever.

“We represented our region in the premier mixed division and qualified fast enough to compete at the Club Crew World Championships in Italy in September,” says team manager Angie Lind. “About 40 of us will be heading over.”

Angie says last Saturday night, April 27, while the crew were gathered at a Brookfield house, someone walked inside and took a backpack with car keys inside. The paddling gear was transferred from that vehicle into another that had the team

race bag and drove off. “We found out later that car was stolen and at least two others had been rifled through and laptops, phones and personal belongings stolen,” says Angie.

Specifically designed

But it was the loss of Angie’s black dragons paddle backpack along with 20 branded and specifically designed carbon fibre paddles – each worth $300 – that hit hardest.

Angie says the paddles were bought specifically for the world competition and had barely touched the water.“For a team that is self-funded, it was huge,” says Angie.

“We’d spent months raising money for tailormade paddles with our team logo that we designed etched into them. They were no use to anyone outside our sport and very easily identifiable.”

A Facebook post about the stolen gear was shared more than 100 times.

“We had support from as far away and extending past Christchurch and Auckland from dragon boat teams,” says Angie.

Very humbling

“It’s made us realise what an amazing community we’re part of and we’re so grateful for the support. “It’s been very humbling.”

Tauranga Police have recovered all of the team’s paddles as well as personal paddles, a phone, an iPad, a backpack and some personal items.

“The theft has been so disappointing but we’re truly humbled by the support of our wider paddling community across the country who rallied to support us and help to have our paddles returned to us.”

BOP Dragon Flyers team coach Steph Mott, team manager Angie Lind and crew member Dave Horgan are thankful for the community’s support.

Photos: Deb Griffiths.

Two of the stolen paddles.

Debbie Griffiths

One-man show comes to town!

Experience a visit from a ghost as history comes to life! ‘Te Tupua – e Goblin’ tells the tale of a disenfranchised child, a shipwrecked sailor, a slave, a tattooed freak.

A Scottish lad of 10 is driven into slavery aboard His Majesty’s ships, circa 1800. After 15 years at sea, he is cast onto the shoreline of Aotearoa.

e ght for survival begins.

‘Te Tupua – e Goblin’ is a solo play written and performed by John G Davies. Te Tupua deals with atonement concerning bicultural New Zealand and the hidden trauma of our shared violent history.

is play, performed very simply with three props and a whole heap of energy, evokes a traditional storyteller from the days of the communal re.

“When I go out into that space, the stage, I feel connected to all the ancient storytellers, to the people who imitate, embody, project, and summon their life force to engage their audience,” says John.

“ at’s me, I’m one of those.”

Ancient Greek drama and the Japanese Noh eatre continue to inspire and guide this work.

Modern theatrical convention often uses masks to disguise identity for a comedic interplay or as an attractive theatrical prop. In this play, ‘Te Tupua –e Goblin’ the appearance of

the past is made possible using a traditional theatrical device, which is the mask.

is play is suitable for ages 10 and up. ‘Te Tupua – e Goblin’

will be performed at 16th Ave eatre on Tuesday, May 7, from 7.30pm. Tickets cost $35 each and can be purchased at: www.iticket.co.nz

Free events to learn to be prepared...

Western Bay of Plenty District Council encourages residents to get ready – an emergency preparedness event is coming to a library near you! e series of emergency preparedness events are being held at Waihī Beach, Katikati and Ōmokoroa libraries to help build community resilience in the event of a disaster.

WBOPDC senior emergency management advisor Jo Lynskey will visit the libraries this month to share information and advice on making emergency plans. She’ll also show people how to set up ‘grab bags’ –which are emergency kits containing essential items such as food, water, communication devices and personal supplies for family members and pets.

“During emergencies, you might need to look after yourself and your loved ones for up to three days

before help arrives. Having emergency supplies and access to the latest information is essential for your safety and wellbeing,” says Jo.

“Last year, our district experienced several weather events, including ash ooding at Waihī Beach, which impacted numerous homes and led to evacuations.

“ ese emergencies can happen suddenly, without warning. Being prepared can make a signi cant di erence. When a natural disaster strikes, knowing what to do and where to nd help is crucial.”

Emergency Preparedness Events are at Waihī Beach Library and Service Centre today, May 3, from 10am1pm; e Centre – Pātuki Manawa, Katikati, on May 16 from 10am-1pm; and Ōmokoroa Library and Service Centre on May 31, from 10am-1pm.

Could she be anymore cute or chunky?!

Good golly Miss Molly!

Molly is a sixmonth-old American Bulldog-cross, and she has the rolls and a big goofy personality to match! Still a baby, she’s growing quickly and will be a large dog, needing very secure fencing and training from day one. Molly knows basic commands and is learning to be better on the lead while

herself and

walking. She is very a ectionate but also great at entertaining herself while left alone. Molly is playful with other dogs and would love a canine best mate – she has been around cats and is learning her boundaries. Come meet Molly today at the Tauranga shelter. Phone: 07 578 024. Ref: 601864

Actor John Davies dressed and ready for the stage. Photo: supplied.

Host a Pink Ribbon Breakfast

Bay of Plenty residents are being urged to host a Pink Ribbon Breakfast this month to support the work of the Breast Cancer Foundation of New Zealand.

May is Pink Ribbon Breakfast month – where tens of thousands of Kiwis host special events in their homes, workplaces and communities in aid of BCFNZ.

“Hosting a Pink Ribbon Breakfast is not just an incredible way to raise vital funds for breast cancer research, education campaigns and patient support services, it’s also whole lot of fun,” says BCFNZ chief executive Ah-Leen Rayner.

According to BCFNZ, breast cancer is the most common female cancer with about 190 women in Bay of Plenty being diagnosed each year.

BCFNZ is a not-for-pro t, non-government funded organisation that depends on donations and fundraising for its work in breast cancer education and awareness, medical research and training grants, advocacy, and supporting Kiwis with breast cancer.

BCFNZ’s programmes are evidence-based, and overseen by its medical advisory committee.

Ah-Leen says the foundation relies entirely on the generosity of New Zealanders to be able to work towards its vision of zero deaths from breast cancer.

To host a Pink Ribbon Breakfast, head to: pinkribbonbreakfast.co.nz to sign up.

Once registered, hosts will receive a free host kit with ideas and supplies to get them started.

Skincare changes and exciting team updates

With the arrival of autumn and the change of season, it’s time to reconsider our skincare routines.

As the weather cools down, our wardrobes and diets go through a shift – and the same goes for our skin. Introducing a richer cream, rather than a lightweight lotion, becomes essential to combat dryness and provide comfort during the cooler months. In other news, our team has been keeping busy with exciting ventures! Mahia, our senior therapist, is not only a skincare expert but also pursuing a six-month course in te reo Māori. Leah brings expertise in beauty therapy and massage

Overcoming challenges

“Resilience is not the absence of pain or di culty, it’s the ability to rise above it and nd strength in the midst of adversity” – Unknown.

and has recently just completed a fascia massage course and is eager to share its bene ts.

Ellisha has been upskilling in advanced skincare treatments and can’t wait to provide personalised results-driven treatments for you.

We’re also pleased to introduce Toni, who recently joined our team with ve years’ experience in the beauty industry.

John has been instrumental in launching our new website with the help of Blair from Digital Pie, so check it out at: www.tranquillobeauty.co.nz

As for me, Sue, I recently took a break to participate in the National Hockey Masters tournament down in Wellington and came back with a silver medal!

Within each of us is the ability to overcome challenges and setbacks through developing resilience. And resilience comes from being in touch with adversity, not evading it. Avoiding challenges will only prevent you from developing those necessary skills to cope when an unavoidable hardship comes along. As such, exposure to some level of stress provides you with the opportunity to become stronger in the face of hardship, and building resilience enables you to cope more admirably with di culties and deal more e ectively with stress. It is important this process includes acknowledging, and believing in, your own accomplishments.

What stresses are you facing today that you could use to develop your coping/resilience skills? If you’d like to know more about coaching, strengthening relationships, exploring your potential, creating transformation, phone Mary Parker, e Fast Track Coach, on: 021 258 2145, or visit: www.thefasttrackcoach.co.nz

Show mum

Ask anyone – there is no one quite like your mum!

She brought you into this world and has loved you every second of every day ever since.

So why not spoil her this Mother’s Day.

A gesture – big or small, material or just a display of

how much you care!

thoughtfulness – will make her day!

Show her how much you love her and care for her – in your own way next Sunday, May 12.

Some of us know what Mother’s Day feels like without our mums earth-side – so make every second count while you can.

Give mum the gift of spectacular gardens

Tickets are now on sale at a special Mother’s Day price for this year’s Bay of Plenty Garden & Art Festival which includes new gardens to thrill. One of those newcomers to the festival belongs to Judy and Paul Smyth of Tauriko. eir 4.5-hectare site boasts many delights including 45 peony plants – not normally associated with the Bay of Plenty – set to be owering at festival time this November 14-17.

Other eye-catchers include the hornbeam hedge, a knot garden, dove cote, clipped buxus balls, a walled garden area, and a circular herb garden divided up by brick paving.

Blooms also include roses, delphiniums, dahlia, foxgloves and aquilegia, with pears and quince examples of fruiting trees. Also on show – and available to buy – are Judy’s chicken wire cloches.

Festival director Marc Anderson says festivalgoers are always intrigued to see what new o erings the biennial festival presents.

“ ey won’t be disappointed. is year’s festival o ers some wonderful new inclusions, in terms of both gardens and art, and the calibre remains high across both,” says Marc.

Tickets to the November 14-17 festival are available at the special Mother’s Day price until May 12. is is the best of the earlybird price opportunities, with four-day passes normally at $80 now available for $60. Visit: www.gardenandartfestival.co.nz or Palmers Bethlehem to secure the low-price o er.

Spoil mum, nurture the quarry park

Does your mum have a soft spot for plants, the outdoors, or Devonshire tea?

Because Te Puna Quarry Park’s next big plant sale just happens to be on Mother’s Day – Sunday, May 12!

And so quarry volunteers are o ering ‘Mother’s Day at the Park’ on May 12 – with all proceeds raised going straight back into nurturing the park.

“We have a large collection of pots and containers. Some of the volunteers are going to

help the children make posies for their Mums and there will be lovely gifts to be purchased for Mum.”

Devonshire teas will be for sale, and a huge range of garden and indoor plants – including Clivias and Hoyas, and a good collection of native plants along with others. Everyone is welcome to ‘Mother’s Day at the Park’ on May 12 from 10am-1pm at Te Puna Quarry Park. Entry is free. Find out more on their Facebook page.

ose making the most of the Mother’s Day prices will initially receive a voucher, with the festival pack and actual festival pack available at a later date for redemption.

Judy and Paul Smyth of Tauriko. Photo: supplied.

Enjoy the many things Greerton has to o er and enter Greerton Mainstreet’s Mother’s Day ra e for your chance to win an abundance of lovely gifts for the special mother gure in your life!

Greerton Business Association is very grateful to the donating businesses from around the village for this event which has enabled them to put together the ultimate Mother’s Day bundles. ere are two chances to win, with two indulgent hampers valued at around $150 each.

“What you could win in our hampers is a Prezzy card, luxury beauty items, a lovely scarf, a purse and gift card for beauty items, a watch, an additional gift card from Unichem, chocolates and treats,” says Mainstreet Manager for Greerton

Business Association, Mahia Martelli.

Mahia says Greerton Mainstreet is holding the ra e to help people celebrate the mother gure in their lives. “Whomever the mother gure is in your life – they should be celebrated. Whether they’re an aunt, a mum, big sister: your everyday hero – it’s simply about giving them a nice treat.” e businesses involved with the Mother’s Day hampers are: ATAXZ Accountants, Artisan Jewellery, AvaNiu Pasi ka, Blomquists Bakery, Craniums, MDS Leather Works, LOX, Unichem Chadwick Pharmacy, Stichmakers and Robyn’s Cottage.

“A huge thank you to all our local business for bringing energy and engagement to Greerton!” e ra e will be drawn by Mainstreet Greerton’s

A thoughtful gift shows you care

Show your mum that you see her for all she does – big and small – with something thoughtful from Giftrapt.

Located in Te Puke, Giftrapt is a small boutique gift store with perfect presents to suit any occasion. With Mother’s Day just around the corner on Sunday, May 12, pop in and say hi to owneroperator Marge Martelletti and the team to help you nd something your mum will adore!

“We’ve got some lovely things to acknowledge your mum from something small like slippers with nonstick soles to hand creams, di users, candles, glasses, mugs and more,” says Marge.

“Mums are amazing. ey do so much that’s unseen. We are so grateful for mothers.”

And if your mum enjoys to knit or sew, Giftrapt boasts a wonderful range of wool and haberdashery to add to her supply.

Based at 82 Jellicoe St, Te Puke, Giftrapt o ers gift wrapping on all purchases on items purchased both in-store and online – free of charge!

Win a hamper of love this Mother’s Day

community constable on Monday, May 13. For a chance to win one of the Mother’s Day hampers, visit one of the businesses listed above and ll out your ticket or you can enter online by visiting: https://www. facebook.com/greertonvillage

Giftrapt’s beautiful Mother’s Day display. Photo: supplied.

Craniums’ manager Jade Mackay with one of the special Mother’s Day hampers. Photo: supplied.

Bay of Plenty Symphonia’s new music director, William McElwee, is thrilled to be working with the orchestra and Scholars Baroque Aotearoa at their upcoming concert on Sunday, May 5, from 3pm at Holy Trinity Church Tauranga.

“ is is a concert of beauty, emotion, and awe,” says William. “ e music we will perform is

BOP Symphonia’s fate and destiny concert

composed to take listeners beyond their normal experience – sound worlds ranging from the sincere beauty of Bloch’s ‘In Memoriam’ to the complex weavings of Brahms in ‘Schicksalslied’ (Song of Destiny), playing o human voices with the instruments of the orchestra with their incredible array of expressive colours, Sibelius’ evocative stage music ‘Valse Triste’, and the enormous triumph over doubt and darkness that is

Beethoven’s fth symphony.

“I’m thrilled to be working with Bay of Plenty Symphonia, who are a wonderful group of musicians passionate about playing classical repertoire as a community.

“I grew up with classical music, rejected it in my teens, and

started irting with it again in my rst year at university, where I was majoring in Latin and mathematics. It was probably all escapism, but I wanted to do everything: conduct, compose, and perform.”

‘Fate and Destiny: Beethoven and Brahms’ is on Sunday,

May 5, at 3pm at Holy Trinity Church, Devonport Rd, Tauranga City. Online tickets cost adults $20 plus a booking fee at: www.event nda.co.nz or phone: 0800 BUY TIX (289 849). Under-18s gain free entry. Door sales cost $25 per adult.

Band and Deliver for Music Month

ere is a time for every season under heaven and currently it’s time for New Zealand Music Month.

I mentioned it last week and I hope to no one’s great surprise we’re continuing today – ‘same vein, di erent arm’ as New Zealand music legend Ritchie Pickett used to say...

I’ve covered the rst few May weekends: today we move to the third.

After already talking about the Jam Factory I was planning to glance at Totara Street’s events but sadly, or perhaps happily, popularity has stymied me.

On May 17 Corrella play there along with Black Comet but the show has sold out. Cause and e ect I guess... eir hit song ‘Blue Eyed Māori’ has shattered records, spending more than 30 weeks straight at the top of the NZ charts, and 38 weeks in the Top 20. Not bad. If you haven’t got tickets and want a taste of Corrella live, their latest EP, ‘Live At Roundhead Studios’, is now on streaming platforms.

Let’s head again to the Jam Factory because on that same day there’s an exciting youth initiative taking

Fillthegridsothat everyrowandevery 3x3squarecontains thedigits1to9 Howtosolve Sudoku!

place. May 17 marks the rst of this year’s three Band and Deliver concerts. e others are June 21 and August 9. ese are free gigs, with the idea being to nd and develop local talent. In an age where we’re bombarded with the musical equivalents of get rich quick schemes in the guise of TV talent quests, Band and Deliver injects a welcome dose of reality.

Under guidance of Marc Anderson, musician and event producer – we have him to thank for the recent jazz festival and more – and Tauranga Boys’ College Head of Music Aaron Wright, last year featured high energy acts and singer-songwriters from Ōtūmoetai, Pāpāmoa and Tauranga Boys’ colleges, plus young independent musicians. Band and Deliver hopes to pump up participation even more for this second run.

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Communicate musically

Marc recalls learning music while growing up: “I have played drums since I was 12 at school”. “ ere was the local Scottish pipe band or brass band, which were fantastic but to be honest, I wanted to be a rock star and there was no local platform to help take the path to get there with con dence.” at’s what he says this initiative is here to improve.

“Band and Deliver is a place where young people can communicate with each other musically, meet follow musicians, jam, and learn that it can be fun but also sound professional!” For more, email: promo@theincubator.co.nz

Lastly, a few highly recommended shows. Matt Joe Gow and Kerryn Fields at the Jam Factory, Saturday, May, 18 is alt folk of the highest order; and We Mavericks – Australian Lindsay Martin and Kiwi Victoria Vigenser – at Katikati’s Arts Junction, Friday, May 17, is folk, not so alt, also of the highest order.

Hear Winston’s latest Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2aKEZjvD40bWdFFV GLjLBX?si=c587786a55b84c47

The Weekend Sun’s ever popular guide to ‘What’s On’ in the Bay.

Bay of Plenty Symphonia’s new music director, William McElwee.

Photo: supplied.

Band and Deliver girls jamming.

Saturday May 4

Art in the Park

Original art for sale. Coronation Park, Mt Maunganui. 9am - 4pm. Weather permitting. Tauranga Society of Artists

Association Croquet

Sat, Mon & Wed at Club Mt Maunganui, 45 Kawaka St. 9.15am for 9.30am start. Newplayers & visitors welcome. Ph Malcolm 027 681 5204 Bay Singles Social Group

50’s young singles. Weekend dinners, pot-lucks, occasional outings. Have a go! Ph Delia 027 284 8762, Andrea 021 133 0313

BOP Annual Orchid Show

Today at Te Puke Memorial Hall

10am- 4pm. Adults $3. Orchids, hoyas, tropical, fruit trees, pot sales, raffle, eftpos available. Faye Diprose 07 573 9710 diproses@kinect.co.nz

Boules - Petanque

Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at Club Mt Maunganui. Boules available. New players welcome. Ph. Ray 027 756 3565 for times, further details. Katikati Bowling Club

8 Park Rd 1.45pm

Katikati Toy Library

Family-focused facility offering 600+ toys to loan to children zero-10. Tues 6.30-8pm Weds 2.30-4pm Sat 9am-10am. Located behind the Christian Centre, Henry Rd, Katikati

Taoist Tai Chi Tauranga

Taoist Tai Chi Tauranga Beginning sessions OPEN. Monday 9am, Tuesday 10.30 + 1pm, Wednesday 1,30pm Thursday 6pm Friday 9am ,Saturday 8.45. Any queries Margie 021 500 320

Tauranga Farmers Market

7.45am-12noon at Tauranga Primary School cnr Cameron Rd & 5th Avenue. Rain, hail or shine. Direct from the Producers. Support local Tauranga Golf Croquet

Tues and Fri 9.30-Noon and1pm to 3.30pm. Saturday 9.30-Noon and Sunday 1pm-3.30pm, Golf Croquet at Tauranga Domain,Cameron Rd. New players welcome. Gretchen 576 7169

Te Puna Harvest Market

Food trucks, coffee cart live band book sale- ex library- all $2 produce & craft flowers & plants preserves & baking animal show bouncy castle balloon man giant pumpkin competition. Te Puna hall 12-4pm

Sunday May 5

Accordion Music Group

Every 3rd Sunday of the month, Welcome Bay Hall 1-4pm, $4.00pp, everyone welcome to entertainment of evergreen music. Joy 027 285 3093

Already a Quaker?

Do you believe in peace, integrity, community, equality, simplicity and stewardship? Join us Sundays 10-12 behind Brain Watkins Historical House. Tauranga Quaker Worship Farmers Market - Mount Mainstreet Every Sunday 9am-1pm rain or shine! Te Papa o Nga Manu Porotakataka (Phoenix Park) www.mountmainstreet.nz

Golf Croquet

Sun, Tues & Thurs. Club Mt Maunganui, 45 Kawaka St. 8.30am for 9am start. New players & visitors welcome. Ph. Nev 07 575 5121

Kuranu Tapu Exhibition

An exhibition of the Quran holy book of Islam is coming to Pāpāmoa for first time, free for public viewing with Maori translation as centerpiece. Otumoetai Rotary Carboot Sale

8.00am for buyers at Otumoetai College Car Park Windsor Road for Otumoetai Rotary. Sellers $10. Details Brian 021 122 8735 Bevan 027 461 2127 Papamoa Lions Club Market

2nd & 4th Sunday. Gordon Spratt Reserve, Parton Rd, Papamoa. Gates open 7am for stall holder entry. Wayne 027 974 5699

Small Dog Gatherings

Socialise and play for small dogs, 2nd and 4th Sunday of every month, 1.30pm @ Syndenham Park, Millers Rd, Brookfield. Free of Charge. 022 403 6640

Tauranga Model Aircraft Club

Interested in flying model planes? Join us every Sunday at TECT Park weather permitting between 10-3pm. Beginners welcome. Directions and webcam on our website www.taurangamodelfly.org

Monday May 6

500 Card Group

Every Monday (except public holidays) from 9.3011.30am, held at Age Concern, 177A Fraser Street, Tauranga, $2 donation, light refreshment provided - all welcome!

Association Croquet Sat, Mon & Wed. Club Mt Maunganui, 45 Kawaka St. 9.15am for 9.30am start. Newplayers & visitors welcome. Ph Malcolm 027 681 5204

Badminton

Shuttlecocks & Hens Social Badminton at Greerton Hall. Mon & Fri 10.30am to 12.30pm all welcome. Ph Lorraine 027 408 6211 or Pam 021 048 5674

Bethlehem indoor bowls

Bethlehem indoor bowls at the Bethlehem hall. Every Monday at 6.45pm. Contact Maxine 578 2481 Chess in Mount Maunganui

Mount RSA Chess Club

544 Maunganui Rd, Mondays (excl public holidays). Early program 6.15pm-7pm Late program 7pm onwards. Casual Chess allowed. Search “Western BoP Chess”. Ph 027 339 3151

Creative Fibre Tauranga

Knitting, crochet, spinning, weaving, felting & dyeing. Mondays 9:30am, & 2nd & 4th Thursdays

6:30pm. 177 Elizabeth St. Enjoy learning new crafts. Ph Joan 021 323 325

Esco-tera coffee club tga

A social club for anyone with an interest in paranormal/ufo related activity, or maybe just an x-files fan. Days/times are negotiable. Daniel 022 462 3316.

Greerton Garden Club

Greerton Garden Club meets 2nd Monday each month at St James Church hall, Pooles Road, Greerton at 1pm. Visitors Welcome. Ph 07 562 8855

Harmony A Plenty Singers

Covid reduced our 20 year numbers. We are inviting men to join us Mondays 7-9pm. Plus supper. Phone Frank 576 3032 or David 576 0578

Indoor Bowls

Matua Primary School Hall at 7.15pm. New members welcome. Come and join us for a evening of fun and bowls. Ph Karen 576 0443

Invitation to singing men

Harmony-A-Plenty has been singing for twenty years. COVID reduced our numbers. We practise Monday evenings 7-9pm. Frank 576 3037 David 576 0578

Katikati Bowling Club

Mixed 2 x 4 x 2. Reporting time 9.15am

Keep On Your Feet

Omokoroa, 11am-12, Settlers Hall, 334 Omokoroa Rd. Strength & Balance classes for older adults, all levels of fitness welcome. Sharnie 021 111 8617

Lyceum Ladies Art Group

Open morning, 68 First Avenue Lyceum Club

Rooms from 9am to 12 noon. Come and meet our art group at work and join us for a coffee. We are a friendly group of like-minded women who enjoy a variety of activities with friendship and fellowship at the core. Ph 021 639 911

Papamoa Family History Group

Meets 2nd Monday Feb - Dec, 10am - 2pm at Papamoa Community Centre. Visitors and new members welcome. Beginner Classes starting 10 April. papgen@gmail.com

Taoist Tai Chi Tauranga

Taoist Tai Chi Tauranga Beginner sessions open Monday 9am, Tuesday 10.30am + 1pm, Wednesday 1.30pm, Thursday 6pm, Friday 9am, Saturday 8.45am. Ph Margie 021 500 320

Tauranga Stamp Club

Wesley Methodist Church, 100 Thirteenth Ave. 10am on the 2nd & 7.30pm on the 4th Monday of the month. All welcome. Ph Tony 07 549 5015 or Jill 07 578 0930

Yoga Classes in Ohauiti

Beginners and intermediate levels. Stretch, strengthen, relax and harmonise. Mondays 9.30am at Ohauiti Settlers Hall. For more info contact Asunta 021 061 4394 or yogaindailylife@pl.net

Tuesday May 7

Altrusa Ladies Service Group

Come and join a bunch of women for community projects and social events. Meet 2nd and 4th Tuesdays. Phone Pam 027-2537562 or visit www.altrusa.org.nz

Bayfair Petanque Club

Play social petanque at Russley Reserve Bayfair. 12.45 to 2.30pm, Tues and Thurs. New players welcome, Boules available. Call Simon 021 158 0129 for details

Cherrywood Probus

Meet on 2nd Tuesday of Month @ TGA Citizens Club 13th Ave 10.00am. Come along for Fun Fellowship & Friendship. Visitors very Welcome. Pam 578 3757

Coffee/Conversation Group Te Puke Age Concern Tauranga holds a friendly Coffee and Conversation Group, Te Puke Citizens RSA, 179 Jellicoe Street, 10am - 11.30, cost $5pp. Everyone is welcome.

Greerton Walking Group

Meet outside Greerton Library at 9am for a gentle, local walk with a friendly crowd, followed by a cafe visit. All welcome. Mike 021 180 7429

Keep On Your Feet

Katikati Rugby & Sports Club, Moore Park 10.3011.30am Strength & Balance classes for older adults, all levels of fitness welcome. Sharnie 021 111 8617

Otumoetai Walking Group

Meet at 9am at Kulim Park. Ph Danny 576 6480

Overeaters Anonymous

Do you starve, binge, purge or overeat? Overeaters Anonymous may have an answer. Meetings in Tauranga Tuesday evening and Friday midday. 021 0236 3236

Petanque @ Bayfair

Play social petanque at Russley Reserve Bayfair. 12.45 to 2.30pm, Tues and Thurs. Friendly club, all welcome. Boules available. Call Simon 021 1580 129 for details.

Creative Fibre Mt Maunganui

Spinning,weaving,felting, knitting, crochet etc. Thursday weekly 9.30 am- 12.30 pm. St. Andrews Church Hall, Dee Street, Mt Maunganui. Learn, share, new skills. Ph Joy 022 354 2835

Flexercise with Fitness League

Exercise, movement, dance, focusing on posture, balance, stretching, strengthening & flexibility, suitable all ages, 10am, Central Baptist Church Hall, 13th Ave, Tauranga. Pam 021 117 7170

Genies Unbottled Belly Dance

Small friendly sessions limited to 5 people on Thursday evenings in Te Puna, beginners welcome. Ph or text Linley 027 286 3452

Katikati Bowling Club

Tauranga Acoustic Music Club

Greerton RSA 7pm. Friendly get-together, all instruments, all levels of ability. Come in and enjoy some live music. Grant 578 6448

Tauranga Model Railway Club

Club meets Tuesday 9.30am & Thursday 7.30pm, corner Mirrielees & Cross Roads, Sulphur Point. Ph Mike 021 939 233

Yoga, Private Classes

Feel uncomfortable in a group setting? Or have special needs? I can design a class to specifically suit your needs/capabilities. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Contact Asunta 021 061 4394

U3A Beachside Public Meeting

U3A Beachside is holding it’s AGM at 10am at Arataki Community Centre. Speaker Maurice O’Reilly on China. Entry $5

Wednesday May 8

10 Pin Bowling

1pm at 10 Pin Tauranga, 135 Thirteenth Ave. Mixed group play for fun but keep the score. Very occasionally competitive. Ph Glenda 021 257 8678

Age Concern Walking Group

A friendly weekly walking group for all ages and all fitness levels. 10am start, meet at Kmart, Bethlehem.

Association Croquet

Sat. Mon. & Wed at Club Mt Maunganui, 45 Kawaka St. 9.15am for 9.30am start. Newplayers and visitors welcome. Ph Malcolm 027 681 5204

Avenues Friendship Club

Meets first Wednesday of each month at 9.30am. Tauranga Citizens Club. 13th Avenue. Guest Speakers. Visitors always welcome. Phone 027 4061 846

Beginner Social Ballroom/Latin Group

Started Wednesday, 1 May, 7-8pm, Welcome Bay School Hall. Just come along on the night. More details on our website: supremedancecentre.nz or Sonia 027 322 1786

Healing Rooms Prayer

Experience God’s healing touch, whether physical, emotional, spiritual. 1-3pm Every Wednesday. All welcome. No charge. Central Baptist Lounge. 640 Cameron Rd. www.healingrooms.com 027 640 1263

Katikati Bowling Club

8 Park Rd. Mixed Roll-ups 12.45-3pm

Marching For Leisure

A non-competitive activity for mature ladies. Fun Fitness and Friendship. For details of Tauranga team practice. Contact Bernie Taylor 027 775 5612

Papamoa Garden Circle

Meets monthly 1pm (2nd Weds of each month) at Papamoa Sports/Recreation Centre, Gordon Spratt Reserve. Competitions, sales table, prize draws. New members and visitors welcome. Contact Lee 021 110 3234

Scottish Country Ceilidh Dancing Mount Community Centre 345 Maunganui Road 7 pm. No partners required. $4 Ph Geoffrey 5440839 Lynne 021 140 7912

Tauranga Embroiderers Guild

Meets every Wednesday at Tauranga Rowing Club, Devonport Road 10am-2.30pm and 7-9pm. Beginners very welcome. Contact Yvonne Horsfall Ph 07 572 0927 / 027 478 4519

Tauranga South Garden Club

Meets first Weds of the month in the Baptist church corner Cameron Rd & Thirteenth Ave. Guest speaker and monthly competitions. All welcome. Enquiries to Margaret Ph 021 0172 02184

Thursday May 9

Coffee/Conversation Group - Greerton

Age Concern Tauranga holds a friendly Coffee and Conversation Group, Greerton Senior Citizens Hall, 33 Maitland Street, 10.30am - 12noon, cost $3pp. All welcome to join.

8 Park Rd Rummikub 1-4pm, $3 entry

Katikati Toastmasters

Joining a Toastmaster club can unlock your potential, find your voice so that you can be the best communicator you can be. Interested phone 027 296 7939

Serenata Singers

Join our friendly welcoming group. Thursdays 10 - 11.30, Methodist Church Hall, 2 Oroua Street, Te Puke. Phone Anne 027 850 3776

Keynotes Women’s Barbershop Chorus Singers, have you tried a cappella? New members wanted. Age no barrier. Join us 7pm, 100 13th Avenue. Phone Bernice 576 4848, Facebook Keynotes Inc. Petanque @ Bayfair

Play social petanque at Russley Reserve Bayfair. 12.45 to 2.30pm, Tues and Thurs. Friendly club, all welcome

Friday May 10

Badminton

Shuttlecocks & Hens Social Badminton at Greerton Hall. Mon & Fri 10.30am to 12.30pm all welcome. Ph Lorraine 027 408 6211 or Pam 021 048 5674

Katikati Bowling Club

Mixed roll up. Reporting time 1.45pm. Visitors welcome. Coaching available. Social activities commence at 4pm

Tauranga Chess Club

Discover the thrill of chess! Join us Fridays at 7pm in Tauranga Citizens Club Committee Room. All levels and ages welcome. Contact Marcus at TaurangaChessClub@gmail.com

The Inth’Way MangoSteen Experience

Friday 24th May at The Jam Factory. Psychedelic music wizardry from The Inth’Way Mangosteen Experience. Starts at 7pm $10. Tickets at www.theincubator.co.nz

Zig Beatnik & Guests

Saturday 25th May at The Jam Factory. Zig Beatnik, The MetroGnomes & Club Med. Starts at 6.00 pm . Just $10. Tickets at www.theincubator.co.nz

Seeing the benefits of phone-less days

On Monday, the National-led Government’s ‘phones away for the day’ policy came into e ect in schools across New Zealand.

Many schools began to implement this policy last term and already we are receiving signi cant positive feedback from teachers and students alike.

Schools are reporting students have improved concentration and are performing better academically, with some estimating improved academic results of 15-20 per cent!

Outside the classroom, numerous schools report noise levels have increased substantially as students engage in much more face-to-face conversation and are outside playing games like touch rugby, cards or handball. Reports of cyberbullying have reduced.

Principals report being stunned at the positive outcomes seen so far. One principal said this is

the most important thing they’ve done in 20 years.

e evidence is clear – in NZ and overseas – schools that have banned cellphone use report better concentration and engagement in class and have seen an improvement in achievement and wellbeing.

We’re putting ambition, achievement and outcomes at the heart of our education system.

We want every child to be inspired and engaged in their learning so they can achieve to the best of their ability and gain skills and quali cations that will support them into further study and employment.

Children and young people at school today are NZ’s future.

Receiving a world-leading education not only sets children up for success, it sets NZ up for success – economically and socially. Keeping phones away for the day is just another step to making this ambition a reality.

Re: ‘We have to speak up for democracy’, letters page 28, e Weekend Sun April 12, 2024, edition.

Kia ora. Ron Chamberlain’s letter prompts thought.

Democracy is an ideology for governance which like social justice seemed far from the reality for many in Tauranga Moana.

Democracy arises from the Greek ‘demos’ or ‘people’, and ‘kratos’ meaning ‘power’, hence working with ‘the power of the people’ requires courage, and humility in engaging alongside the nature of the will of peoples in this place. With our communities’ inequities, can the diversity of peoples here be fairly heard, considered, addressed?

Wise principles shape aspirations for democracy. Beginning in mutual respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, respect exists always in relationship of oneself

Ross Bourne wishes to express thanks to all those who showed love and support following the tragic death of his son Brendon Bourne on February 24. Brendon, 55, died after a two vehicle crash on SH2, near Tanners Point.

“I was blown away, there were 1000 people at Brendon’s funeral. I really want to say ”thank you” to police, ambulance and so many people who went the extra mile for Brendon and his family.

“I’m heartbroken. ank you to Classic Flyers Aviation Museum & Café, and to Rodney Wood at Baypark Speedway. Rodney and Brendon were good friends, he shook my hand, and had the crowd turn on their cellphones at Speedway to honour Brendon. All these guys came up from Wellington for the funeral, Brendon probably taught them to y. Police Senior Sergeant Wayne Hunter did everything for me, he rang me and came to the funeral. You don’t realise how good people are.” Ross Bourne, Greerton.

Re: ‘Zebras and rainbows’, letters page 28, e Weekend Sun April 12, 2024, edition. I agree with Rhonda Bennet’s letter ‘Zebras and rainbows’ about how it’s not appropriate to use roading to promote the LGBTQ agenda. While I don’t agree with the actions of some painting over the roading rainbows, I can empathise with the

Prompting thoughts on democracy

impacting on others’ rights. Navigating these responsibilities requires candidates with abilities to be independent and interdependent, to work together to shape the future, for Local Government power is clearly political. Living out our democracy is one navigating power of control and of greatest care for those most disadvantaged by dominant power groups.

Living democracy involves mindfulness of power and privilege.

It is present in our application of our best thinking to the tasks facing this generation, supporting candidates demonstrating thoughtful care for people, landscape and the enduring covenant which invite a cohesive society forward in Tauranga Moana.

Nga mihi mahana, Merrill Simmons-Hansen, Te Papa Peninsula.

Thanks for the support Quality, not quantity, is what we need

Tauranga’s Urban Task Force chair Scott Adams, representing property developers, supports the appointment of a Crown observer appointed to report to the Government on Tauranga City Council after the next election. Adam is quoted as saying this: to ensure the city “has to be focussed on growth”. Why doesn’t Mr Adams stand for mayor and let the people see if that is what they want? Especially since Tauranga has lost the title as the Fastest Growing City in New Zealand to Hamilton. Many of us would prefer to see Greg Brownless leading the newly elected councillors who will have to try to reduce the number of council managers who just contract out council work, to private contractors. A focus on quality, not quantity, is what Tauranga needs now. Jim Sherlock, Parkvale.

Wouldn’t it be wiser to let kids be kids?

desperation driving them to do so... Wouldn’t it be wiser to let kids be kids? Surely the conservative approach of the past will in the long run minimise harm. All countries in the rest of human history were not as foolish as the minority of countries today making this grave error. Abridged. David Kidd, Ohauiti.

Mowing and gardening services you can trust!

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O ering a wide range of services from mowing and gardening to rubbish removal, garden tidy ups, hedging, weed spraying – you name it! e Fox team service residential properties, commercial property lawn and garden management, and supporting property managers

as experienced and trusted contractors.

When you choose Fox, you can be sure that you are dealing with local operators who are passionate about what they do, take pride in their work, and are committed to delivering the best possible service.

Whether you need regular lawn maintenance, a seasonal garden clean up or a one-o project, Fox has you covered. Contact Fox today on: 0800 369 669 or: www.foxmowing.co.nz Franchise opportunities also available.

public notices mobility

tauranga

113 TWELFTH AVE Massive

House/Garage Sale Saturday 4th May. Between 10am – 3pm. Lawnmower, fridge/freezer, microwave, furniture, old building tools, bric a brac, china, arnaments, crystal, glass, teapot, cutlery, silverware, lots of kitchen stu , clothing, bedding, paint, wallpaper, gardening, ladder, cds, videos, cassettes stereos, artwork. Cash only. FREE STUFF 2pm.

gate pa

32 SUNVALE PLACE 5th May starts @ 8am. All household furniture, kitchenware, plants, DVDs, CDs, designer men’s shirts and more.

bible digest MANY ARE the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord purpose that prevails. Proverbs 19:21 curtain maker

NEW & ALTERATIONS Specialist in all Curtains and Roman Blinds including homes and motorhomes. Free Quotes. Ph Liz 027 711 2217. for sale

KING SIZED ELECTRIC BLANKET

$50.

Churches Active In Our Community

‘Teach us to number our days’

Psalm 90 is a prayer of Moses, the man of God. We don’t know when Moses wrote this Psalm.

We do know that as leader of the Israelites being led by God through the wilderness, Moses had seen his fair share of deaths. In this prayer, Moses nds relief and comfort in the eternity of God’s nature.

“Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God (V1-2)”.

In verses 3-11 he contrasts God’s eternal nature with our human frailty. In verses 9-10 he prayed: “ e years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty; yet their span is but toil and trouble; they are soon gone, and we y away”.

to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom”. Dear reader – God is calling us to consider the brevity of this human life; and to nd relief, hope and comfort in Christ, as stated in 2 Timothy 1:9-10: “[God] saved us and called us to a holy calling… which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Saviour Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel”.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi advises of upcoming overnight road closures from Sunday 5 May to Thursday 9 May 2024 (approximately 7pm to 5am each night) of SH2 Hewletts Road flyover southbound, Maunganui Road southbound (between Golf Road roundabout and Concord Avenue) and Maunganui Road northbound (between SH2/SH29A Te Maunga interchange and Bayfair roundabout).

Vehicle and pedestrian access for Maunganui Road residents and businesses between Golf Road and Concord Avenue will be maintained.

Closures will vary night to night, depending on site requirements and progress. For more information on detour routes, visit nzta.govt.nz/baylink-traffic

In verse 12, Moses’ wisdom shines in his observation that we should value every day of our lives, living each day in surrendered obedience to God: “So teach us

Road users are asked to allow extra time, follow signposted detours and drive with caution through the project site. In the event of bad weather or unforeseen circumstances, the closures may be moved to the next suitable night/s.

NZTA thanks road users and residents for their patience.

Richard Roodt, Redeemer Church Tauranga

Tauranga