The Weekend Sun - 10 January 2025 by Sun Media

Water and wings

It’s the new water sport that’s quite literally taking off

Twenty-five-year-old Lewis Hall has always loved water sports like white water kayaking and wakeboarding

Late last year, he exchanged freshwater for saltwater to take up wing foiling - a wind propelled water sport developed from kitesurfing, windsurfing and surfing - on Tauranga Harbour

Here, the Bellevue resident was caught in action by his father, The Weekend Sun photographer David Hall

The adrenaline seeker talked to The Weekend Sun’s Debbie Griffiths about

the upside of the fast-paced sport and why it’s the hardest thing he’s ever learned to do

Photo: David Hall

Tauranga Kia

Phone 07 578 0030 www theweekendsun.co nz

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A tanty over tinned spaghetti

No wonder the president-elect is threatening to annex Canada

Not because he wants to lovingly embrace his northern border neighbours, he wants to bundle every last one of those cheeky 40 million Canucks off to finishing school – teach them a thing or two about international relations, about niceness, understanding and acceptance

And first in line for some etiquette training will be a bloke called Peter Early, aka “Early Pete” –known in his own little social media bubble for clips discussing food from around the world

Shots fired

In one of his latest videos, he takes a stinging,

long-distance shot at the Kiwi propensity for Wattie’s tinned spaghetti Calls us “liars” for promoting seasonal ingredients and local produce when in fact we ’ re on the sofa scoffing 420-gram cans of “New Zealand’s favourite” Pete probably believed that blurb on the label Spaghetti in “rich tomato sauce ” with “ two field grown tomatoes squeezed into every can ” Don’t those two tomatoes tick the seasonal ingredients and local produce boxes?

“What are you guys doing?” asks the Canadian know-it-all who presents in that attire might get a “C” or “D” council hygiene rating appearance This chef wouldn’t be allowed through the front door of most New Zealand restaurants, let alone into the kitchen

And here he is barking on about Kiwis and tinned spaghetti “I mean this is worse than the slop they serve in American cafeterias ”

Really petty Pete?

Childhood staple

Kiwis don’t regard Watties ‘ spag ’ as haute cuisine, but it’s certainly been a “ go to ” for generations of us Twenty million cans a year - four cans for every man woman and child It’s a classic, it has a place, it’s had a job to do And it has quietly and loyally served us well when required.

Like Boxing Day – you would have heard a percussion of popping tins at baches and camp sites as Wattie’s was prescribed to soak up the excesses of the previous day Wattie’s spag on Vogels toast with a couple of runny poached eggs - just the medicine for a stinking Xmas hangover

And petty Pete, you are in no position to be sanctimonious when you boast something called “the Canadian Hangover Helper”, or breakfast Poutine, sion of “slops” It sounds like s like slops I understand the ne is, at best, a deformation ish word “pudding”, and, at uld be Quebecois slang for “ a

curd, rubber tasting vaguely like cheese and squeaks when munched, and gravy, chopped bacon and fried eggs. An artery hardening abomination

We can match your goop Petty Pete But we won ’ t boast about it, and we won ’ t make an international incident

fries topped with cheese

of it We call our Poutine “Cheesy Weezies” – our infamous rather than famous contribution to loaded fries A bunch of hot salty chips sprinkled with a handful of REAL cheese, drizzled with tomato sauce or mayonnaise, or both, and pulled together in a gooey, parcel I suspect our goo out-grosses and outcalories your goop

Culinary delights

Petty Pete calls us out for “lying” Well, consider this Pete

Between cans of Wattie’s spaghetti, we eat kiwifruit, citrus, berries of every ilk, persimmon, feijoas, melons, avos, cherries, pears and apples Shall I go on? From around the coast – whitebait, crayfish, Snapper, Tarakihi, flatfish, Tuna, mussels, paua and scallops From the farm, venison, goat, beef, lamb and chicken You want brussel spouts, asparagus, kumara with that? Get the picture Pete?

And you can only brag about a flatbread called Bannock that looks as uninteresting as its name, something called a Halifax Donair which the rest of the world knows as a Doner Kebab, ghastly ketchup flavoured chips – why would you? - and Tourtière, a common old meat pie hiding behind a flash Gallic

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name We’ll send some “train smash”, Wattie’s tomato sauce, to flash up that pie And a couple of tins of spag because perhaps, just perhaps, your tinned spaghetti is crap, and your little outburst is an envy thing

Versatile dish

As one of four kids in a working-class family, Jim Wattie made us look flash When other kids got boring meat paste or jam sandwiches for school lunch every day, I got cold, canned spaghetti, sprinkled with grated tasty cheese and lovingly crafted into little rolls I was envied

We also had Wattie’s spaghetti for dinner The head chef made a bake, a work of art - a bed of canned spaghetti, sliced left-over sausages, chopped onion, fingers of toast, parmesan, and breadcrumbs with sliced tomatoes and parsley on top. Looked great, tasted great, was great So, stop being picky Pete We understand your country is rudderless, mired in tears and resignations this week, so you are probably in need of love and understanding You are forgiven Have a hug Three tins of Wattie’s in transit as we speak And if you need prep directions chef, just yell

Fake NZTA toll fee text circulates Tauranga

A new scam masquerading as the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is making the rounds in Tauranga, asking people to pay late road toll fees

It contains an ominous message from the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi asking people to pay unknown late fees and a link to where to pay a bogus outstanding road toll.

The text message was received by a SunLive reader, who wished to stay anonymous, on January 7

“It was weird that I got the message not long after using the toll road on January 4,” she said Bad grammar and the message coming from an overseas phone number tipped her off that it was not a g genuine request from NZTA, she said

“But not everyone pays attention to bad grammar ” NZTA understands how frustrating and unsettling these scams can be, a spokesperson said

“We encourage anyone who receives suspicious text messages, emails, or other communications to report them to us straight away ” NZTA said official text messages would only come from a 3651 number and never include a link for online transactions

Alternatively, NZTA has launched an app for New Zealanders to securely access their driver’s licence and vehicle information

“We are also working with police,

CERT NZ, and Netsafe to combat the scammers ”

“However, they are relentless and persistent, with new fraudulent websites appearing as soon as one is taken down or blocked ”

The scam itself is a variation of the other scam pretending to be the NZTA, where it will ask for registration or driver’s license renewal

The NZTA said it has an online form where people can report suspected phishing scams

“The sooner we know about it, the faster we can act to protect you and others,” the spokesperson said

Tom Eley

A copy of the scam NZTA text message making its way across the city, asking people to make bogus road toll payments.

Road reduction trial

Tauranga is trialling a way to reduce the road cones and disruption from roadworks on local routes – and “quadruple” output.

Tauranga City Council had been trialling a new method which involves using traffic signals mounted on the back of a utility vehicle or light truck to alert drivers to the works.

“A road marking buggy is transported to the site on a trailer to undertake the work, and safety is maintained with a site traffic management supervisor watching out for people moving around the worksite,” said council.

“Once the paint is dry, we can pack up and move on to the next job Having smaller equipment also makes the work less intrusive for residents.”

The trial has been successfully tested at two sites and will continue to be trialled until July 2025 to monitor the results

Man no shows in court

An arrest warrant has been issued for a Taupō man who made online threats to “hang”

former Prime Minister

Dame Jacinda Ardern, after he failed to appear in court.

Richard Trevor Sivell, 43, was due in the Tauranga District Court this week for sentencing on three charges

Sivell was convicted at trial in October of making threats to kill Ardern on social media platform Telegram between November 2021 and January 2022, when she was still Prime Minister

He was also found guilty of obstructing police by refusing to come out of his caravan when they raided his Te Puke property in March 2022 and failing to provide the PIN for his seized mobile phone.

Sivell’s trial was delayed after he went on the run for 20 months after being granted bail following his initial arrest on March 29, 2022.

IRD late-payment changes

Inland Revenue is changing the interest rates paid by and to taxpayers who over and underpay their tax - but the rate it pays is dropping by more than the rate it charges

From January 16, people who overpay their tax will be paid an interest rate of 4.3 percent, down from 4.67 percent previously

Those who underpay will be charged 10.88 percent, down from 10.91 percent previously This is charged when people do not pay their taxes by the due date.

Robyn Walker, a tax partner at Deloitte said the rates were driven by formulas.

“The underpayment rate is set as the Reserve Bank’s floating first mortgage rate for new customers in the housing market, plus 2.5 percent. The overpayment rate is either 0 percent or the Reserve Bank’s 90-day bill rate minus 1 percent, whichever is higher”

Entertainers bring the smiles

Mount Main Beach is a great place for seasoned entertainers ‘London and Mousch’ to practice

their skills ahead of the 141st Tauranga A&P Lifestyle Show at Tauranga Racecourse on Saturday, February 15.

It’s only the second time the popular duo, Lyndon Hawk and Steve London, have attended the event.

“The kids in the crowd were great last year It’s a nice family day out, ” said Hawk. “I was brought up in Glasgow, with pantomimes and the circus We didn’t have A&P shows.”

While Hawk taught himself to juggle in his 40s, London started entertaining when he was just 12 years old

“My brother and I were given puppets for Christmas,” he said “My grandfather built us a puppet theatre and we started

doing little shows One of them was at the library for Book Week and someone came up and asked us to do a show for a kindergarten Christmas party

kindergar par y and asked how much we charged. I think we earned about ten ‘bob’ for that.”

As ‘London and Mousch’, they have been performing together for two years and will be making their way through the crowds at the Tauranga A&P Lifestyle Show, juggling and performing magic and puppet shows.

Around 3500 people are expected to flock to the annual event to enjoy the traditional music, food, carnival rides and demonstrations along with displays of close to 100 different types of machines and engines – both vintage military vehicles as well as farming equipment.

perform tricks and there will also be a shearing display, with the wool spun into yarn be used for kids craft activities

“It’s multi-generational event,”

“There’s been a real resurgence in crafts, particularly since Covid,” said Mitchell “There’s lots of opportunity to get involved.”

The dunk tank is a crowd favourite, along with face painting, balloon animals and a strongman competition. Aongatetebased Positively Together has sheep that m earing to ts a mu ti-generational family event, said event organiser Karen Mitchell “Parents and grandparents have been to the A&P Show when they were children, so now they bring their own kids along.” Those interested in owning alpacas will be able to pet the animals and chat to breeders while kids will enjoy the petting zoo In the ‘home industry’ contest, Lego building has been included for the first time along with the regular baking, building, growing and sewing.

Tauranga A&P Lifestyle Show a Tauranga Racecourse from 10am on Saturday, February 15. $10 for adults –free for kids under 15

Entertainers Lyndon Hawk and Steve London, a.k.a ‘London and Mousch’ practice at Main Mount Beach. Photo Debbie Griffiths

“It’s beautiful.” A grown man is purring over a toy

“For a start, it’s not a toy It’s a model Even says so on the box. “You would not want a five-year-old playing with this.”

This thing of “beauty” is a model steam locomotive - a J Class, a legendary servant of New Zealand Railways out of the 1950s, a train from another time, a romantic time in New Zealand travel.

It’s a hefty wee thing, about 1.2kg of brass and white metal precision engineering with an equally hefty price tag.

“Comes as a box of bits for more than $2000,” said Darryl Judkins of the Tauranga Model Railway Club So 2000 reasons you wouldn’t want a five-year-old playing with it. But it’s just the ticket for a 60-something-year-old big kid

Then that “box of bits” requires special tools, special fingers, a special touch to assemble the locomotive.

“It’s pedantic work, precision work, very specialised,” said Judkins

Because they’ve taken a 100-tonne, 21-metre steam locomotive and shrunk it 64 times. Every last detail – the 4-8-2 bogey configuration, the valve gear, pistons, the smokebox door and smoke stack, the coal bunker and water tanks – everything that bought this huffing, hissing, spitting, chugging beast to life, in real life.

It’s a hobby, but the enthusiasts have made it an artform. And therein lies the ‘beauty’.

“It’s the way it’s engineered and constructed,” said Judkins. “Go on, take a close look.”

I do, and even though this layman doesn’t know a coupling from a connecting rod, he can appreciate the workmanship

“And that all means it runs superbly well A

he magic of model rail a

smooth, even, realistic speed, operating very comfortably in this setting. Nice to see, nice to watch.”

“It looks like the real thing. And that’s what we strive for – reality!”

Immense satisfaction and a thing of great beauty Mmm!

The maximum official speed for a J Class was 100 km/h, a bit over 60m/h. But racing across the long, flat, Canterbury plains to connect with the inter-island ferry at Lyttelton, those big 56-inch wheels would creep over 70m/h or 113 km/h. I recall the J Class racing and drawing away from the State Highway 1 traffic which ran alongside the track.

Now that “thing of great beauty” – the model J Class – is parked up on a Lilliputian siding at the Model Railway Club’s Sulphur Point headquarters It’s a 1:64 scale version of the Katikati railway yards of 70 years ago, right down to the faithfully replicated trees, bushes, paths, walkways, vehicles and sheds, when steam ruled, before the station burned down, before the tracks were dug up and developers drove their life-size bulldozers on to the site on the northern fringes of town.

The railway yards might be gone, but they’re not gone, they have just contracted to 1/64th

Not all trains are the same…uh,uh!

“I don’t like English trains,” said Trevor Gardiner, a life-long enthusiast.

His preference is European trains, German Marklin models. But don’t ask him why Marklin does them well. And expensively You can pick up one online for $6500, and another for a more modest $3589.

Gardiner was genetically drawn to trains. His dad was an NZR porter, guard, shunter, you name it.

“But he never took us to see trains. That was just him.”

Probably because after eight hours of ingesting smoke and soot at work every day, he had had enough

“But he spiked an interest,” said Gardiner, gratefully Gardiner’s father always thought he’d one day end up working for NZR, but he chose the builder’s hammer over the stoker’s coal shovel.

“Don’t ask me why the interest in models? Why does anyone get interested in anything?”

Yes, why indeed?

Next week the club will pack its entire model railway network into

a trailer and cart it down Cameron Rd to Tauranga Boys’ College for the annual Tauranga Model Railway Show from 10am-4pm on Saturday, January 18 and Sunday, January 19. Gardiner and Judkins would be delighted to take you for a 1:64 climb up the railway engineering marvel that is the Raurimu Spiral, or a miniature romp around the Katikati railway yards

For more information on the show, visit: www taurangamodelrailwayclub.co.nz

Get in touch about our next training course - star ng Friday 14 February 2025

Locomotive Jb1208 steaming through the Tauranga Model Railway Club’s Katikati railyards layout watched by club president Wade. The layout will be at the show Photo: David Hall

Hunter Wells

A feel for life before smartphones

It was the day I broke into the Bank of Wells. Took a jemmy, a screwdriver, to the jagged teeth of an almost impenetrable 1960s Post Office Savings Box. The teeth through which you poked coins for safe keeping. Those teeth only opened one way, and, usually, could only be opened by the all-powerful post master and his master key That guy held sway in his day – probably more than the Mayor

This novice safe cracker prised those teeth open and nicked half-acrown, two shillings and six pence. Nicked? It was my Post office Savings Box, so I think I was making a withdrawal rather than committing grand larceny Half a crown, or 25 cents, had buying power in the 1960s – it would get you the biggest block of Cadbury or maybe a pack of 20 Dunhills. Whichever was your poison.

Ask a millennial what they make of a Post Office Savings Box? Ask a Gen Z’er about half a crown and watch

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the puzzlement. Ask if they’ve ever been into a Post Office to buy a stamp, write an aerogram, or if they have ever dialled a telephone number, or uttered: “Trunk please” to the operator, or cheekily eavesdropped on the neighbours as they chatted on the “ party line”.

A focal point

Even Western Bay Museum’s debut collection curator was “astonished” to learn about party lines – that you could be having a phone call and a neighbour could be listening in on the shared line. “Imagine if that happened today?” asked Carly Vevers, who has an Master of Arts in Museum Studies That’s why the Western Bay Museum is saluting

the role of the Post Office and Telephone Exchange in keeping communities connected in pre-digital times with an exhibition called ‘Echoes of Exchange’. It’s reconnecting with a lost connection, a conglomeration of old communications gear, some still working and related relics.

“Post Office exhibitions have been done in many museums around the world,” said Vevers “They have the potential to tell so many stories and social histories because people lived their whole lives through the Post Office.”

A life force

The Post Office was a focal point, people met there when they went to town, people posted their

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Museum curator Carly Vevers watches on as Eden Cave talks to her sister via the old Katikati Telephone Exchange. Photo: Merle Cave

Exchange.

mail there, the private post boxes were there, it was where people deposited their savings, where people got mortgages, registered their births, death, marriages, and cars. It accepted television and fishing licence fees, enrolled people to vote and paid pensions. It provided weather and temperatures for the weather office and performed marriage ceremonies. Through the 20th Century, the Post Office was New Zealand’s biggest employer

It was a life force. And now the Western Bay Museum gives us a feel for that force. It’s an eyeopener for younger people. “They’re shocked And for the older people, said Western Bay M Pièce de resista

opener for younger shocked. for the older a sense of what has been lost,” Museum manager Paula Gaelic. resis story with more clarity nce man which only 43 years ago, is now all hooked up ser ng five Western Bay Mus s

just to ask the time. Or how long to cook a turkey Or how to lamb a ewe.

The exhibition, said Gaelic, also highlights some lost social traditions. “Like the pleasure of writing a letter, buying a stamp and posting that letter Many kids haven’t written or received a letter So, we give them the chance to write a postcard to themselves.”

Open all summer

A free, popular, online sunscreen database offering New Zealanders a comprehensive and userfriendly resource for summer has been updated.

The enhanced database, launched in partnership with Te Whatu Ora and Consumer NZ, allows users to filter sunscreens by factors such as price, water resistance, SPF protection and the last time a sunscreen was tested Consumer NZ research writer Belinda Castles said the database is designed to help consumers make better-informed decisions about sun protection for themselves and their families

“[The year] 2023 was the first year we published the sunscreen database, and the 2024 update is more useful for New Zealanders

SPF: This measures protection against UVB rays The higher the SPF number, the greater protection –up to SPF50+

For example, SPF15 blocks 93% of UVB rays, SPF30 blocks 97%, and SPF50 blocks 98% But please note: No sunscreen blocks 100% of UVB rays

Water resistance: Check how long a sunscreen is water-resistant

Sunscreens can claim to be 40 minutes, 80 minutes, two hours or four hours water-resistant

“With the harsh New Zealand sun, it’s crucial that sunscreen manufacturers regularly test their sunscreens to ensure they provide the protection consumers expect, ” said Castles

Sunscreen regulation in New Zealand is the Sunscreen (Product Safety Standard) Act, which came into effect in September 2022, sets out safety and efficacy standards for sunscreens

Nothing tells the than the collection – the Katikati manual exchange, which was decommissioned onl years ago, is now all hooked up and ser five telephones operating in Western Bay Museum main exhibition hall

“Give the young phone and they pr And they’re not sur the receiver to hold foreign to young people. discovery”

“Give the phone and they pr l. su receiver to to the ear. It’s totally to young But they love the Once a time, the women

Once upon a time, the exchange and the women who operated it could tell some stories. “They knew everyone and everything that was happening in town. ” Gossip central maybe? “They would deny it, but it was true, ” said Gaelic. “If the doctor went out for dinner, he’d let the telephone operators know where in case of an emergency If there was a fire, the fire truck would drop by the exchange to find out where to go ”

Gaelic suggests the operators were the ‘Google of their time’. Subscribers would ring the operators

consider what they will leave behind for generations to learn their lives ”

Then I spot my orange, circa 1960 Post Savings book in a display case – I’d take it to school Fridays with or whatever Mum afford, and teacher Mrs Hudson would en mount, tot layed banker “There o ays,” Gaelic There’s an pence, or s would o re ’ tellers cash box – a mini wooden Fort Knox. Mint condition And old metal Post Savings Box – the one with the shark’s that almost a felon of me. Post Office

Vevers said we know so much about the history of this country through letters and postcards in museums “I would love for young people to future about e, ost Office n I’d take hool two bob, um could cher Mrs make the amount, played was a lot days,” said n old machine uppence, or sixpence, would spit out e ’ s the mi Knox the Office wi teeth that almost made a felon of me. And Post Office ashtrays – you could smoke in the Post Office.

“Consumers can now filter by several key factors, like price, water resistance and SPF, making it easier than ever to compare sunscreens ” Castles also shared some tips for choosing sunscreen She said when selecting sunscreen, keep the following important factors in mind

Broad-spectrum protection: Choose a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays as both can contribute to skin cancer

“While this law ensures sunscreens meet certain requirements, Consumer believes that ongoing testing and transparency are crucial to making sure these products continue to deliver the protection they promise,” said Castles

For more information, visit the database at: www consumer org nz/ products/sunscreens/guide

“They were probably branded to stop people stealing them,” said Gaelic ‘Echoes of Exchange’ – a rich slice of life as it used to be, before digital communication – is a free exhibition open until June 29, 2025, at Western Bay Museum. The museum is open 10am-4pm Monday-Friday, and 11am-3pm on weekends and public holidays, during summer Enjoy the free experience! Hunter Wells

Isla Cave has a turn at being the operator of the old Katikati Telephone

The old Post Bank memorabilia

Resurfacing work for SH2

From Sunday, January 12, to Monday, February 24, nightworks will be underway on State Highway 2 near Snodgrass Road and Te Puna Quarry Road.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council said the work is part of essential resurfacing work

Key Impacts: Nightly roadworks from 8pm to 5 30pm Snodgrass

$4199

Road and Te Puna Quarry Road intersections with SH2 will be closed during the works Detours will be in place for residents. Daytime travel will have a reduced speed limit for safety

For more information, contact: NZTA: 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49)

Sikh community on parade

Tauranga will come alive with the colourful and lively Sikh Parade, as the community celebrates the birth of the 10th Master, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, on Sunday

The annual event will showcase Sikh culture and traditions, with vibrant floats, traditional costumes, and festive displays of community spirit

“A very exciting time, a wonderful time for the Sikh community,” said Puran Singh, one of the parade organisers and president of the Tauranga Sikh community

The parade starts at 11am at the Gurudwara Sikh Sangat temple at 43 Burrows Street, before winding its way through central Tauranga.

Participants from Tauranga, Rotorua, Hamilton, and Auckland will walk the route, with some riding in decorated trucks. The procession will pass down 14th Avenue and Devonport Road, before stopping at Tauranga Boys’ College carpark for speeches

The journey will continue to Memorial Park, Fraser Park, and return to the temple.

Organisers expect more than 1500 participants, including many from the Sikh community, which numbers around 10,000 in the Bay of Plenty region.

“Anyone and everyone is welcome to join us ”

Guru Gobind Singh, the last of the 10 Sikh Gurus, transformed the Sikh faith and in 1699 created the Khalsa, a community of the faithful who wore visible symbols of their faith and trained

as warriors. He commanded them to wear the Five Ks: Kesh (uncut hair), Kangha (a wooden comb for the hair), Kara (an iron bracelet), Kachera (tied undergarment) and Kirpan (an iron dagger for defence)

The day marking the birth of the 10th Guru is regarded as a sacred day for Sikhs. Guru Gobind Singh’s introduction of the turban and the salwar kameez remains a defining element of Sikh culture today

During the parade, roadways will be lined with enthusiastic spectators, as temple members offer refreshments like water and fruit to keep everyone energised The route will also include a purification ritual, with women sweeping the path to prepare it for the procession carrying the holy book of Sikh followers

Road closures

To ensure safety, several road closures will be in effect from 11am to 3pm on January 12. Burrows Street will be fully closed, and rolling closures will impact sections of 14th Avenue, Devonport Road, Eleventh Avenue, Fraser Street, and Thirteenth Avenue. Road access will be maintained where possible, and traffic management staff will be on hand.

The Sikh Parade is a significant cultural event for Tauranga, offering the community a chance to witness the faith and culture’s rich traditions.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for everyone to come together, celebrate, and learn about our culture,” said Singh

Rosalie Liddle Crawford

As part of the Tauriko Enabling Works, a narrow section of Cambridge Rd has closed to allow the upgrade to progress, according to New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi

The section of the northbound lane on Cambridge Rd, from the SH29 intersection to 563 Cambridge Rd, is now closed to complete the narrower section of sheet piling

“This [closure] requires further traffic management, and local residents, businesses and visitors should be prepared for disruption to their journeys over the construction period, particularly from January 6 to early February 2025,” said NZTA Waka Kotahi regional manager of infrastructure delivery Waikato/ Bay of Plenty (acting) Bruce Waugh

This means all SH29 Bethlehem-bound vehicles will be required to use alternative routes via SH29 Takitimu Drive Toll Rd or SH29A and Cameron Rd during this time

For more information, including a map of the Cambridge Rd closure, visit: nzta govt nz/projects/ tauriko-west/tauriko-enabling-works

Women who participated in a past Tauranga Sikh parade.

• Buy a bigger boat

• Tidy up the garage

• Throw out my collection of fleecy jackets

• Be a better communicator

• Check out getting some hearing aids

Scarecrow competition

Get in the country spirit this month by making a scarecrow for a new competition to celebrate the 100th Katikati A&P Show coming up on February 2, 2025

Those interested are invited to make a scarecrow out of anything

but straw is essential somewhere

and deliver it to the show’s Home Industries Hall by 2pm, Saturday, February 1

Categories include children, adults, family, business, community group, and A&P sponsors Each entry costs $2 each and your scarecrow can be any size or shape, with the competition to be judged on show day on Sunday, February 2, by people’s choice public voting For rules and entry information, see: www.katikatiaandpshow.nz

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e Puna Speed Shear celebrates 24 years

The annual Te Puna Speed Shear will take place this Saturday at the Point Ale House in Whakamārama, marking the event ’ s 24th year

It cements its status as New Zealand’s longestrunning speed shearing competition

Co-organiser Maree Morton expressed her delight at the event ’ s continued success

“John Dalziel is an original who started it at the Te Puna Rugby Club in 1999, and he’s still part of the committee today We only missed one year2022 - due to Covid

The event, which is always held on the second Saturday in January, draw shearers from across the country, including several from Taranaki, and occasionally from overseas

“We never know how many shearers will be showing up, as many finish work and then drive a long distance to compete. Sometimes, shearers from the South Island turn up if they’re in the area. We’ve even had Welsh and Scottish shearers in the past, and this year, we have a competitor coming from the United Kingdom ”

curtain-sider truck is set up for the shearing.

“It’s a chance for people to see shearers in action up close—many of our visitors from town have never witnessed shearing firsthand. Around 400 people usually turn up, and it starts with the veterans at 5.30 pm, followed by the seniors and then the open competition. The prizegiving takes place around 10 pm. ”

In addition to the action-packed shearing, attendees can enjoy food and drinks, with a food truck offering burgers, chips, and hotdogs. The pub also serves drinks to those attending Entry is by gold coin donation, with all proceeds going towards local community causes.

“We aim to raise around $10,000. All our volunteers donate their time Last year, we supported the rescue helicopter service, and we ’ ve helped local causes like the kindergarten, children with cancer, and an assistance dog.”

Top prize for the open shear competition is $2000 and the fastest time on record is an impressive 15.97 seconds

“On average they are 17-21 seconds It depends on how the lamb behaves that day - sometimes even the best shearer gets a wriggler

Among the regulars is Digger Balme, a 60-yearold shearer who has participated in every Te Puna Speed Shear since its inception Digger and his crew will be travelling up from King country.

“He sent me a message saying he’s looking forward to Saturday He’s won a couple of years here and there but now, with younger shearers coming through, he’s often finishing second or third. But they’re less than half his age.

The event has a reputation for drawing a large crowd to The Point Ale House carpark, where a

Morton said despite the speed shear event being held on the same day as the Katikati Avocado Festival, the festival is finishing just as the Whakamārama event is starting.

“So rock on up It’s just a gold coin in the bucket.”

Te Puna Speed Shear, The Point Ale House, 17 Plummer’s Point Rd, Whakamārama, starts 5.30pm, Saturday January 11. Entry – gold coin

Rosalie Liddle Crawford

Digger Balme in action shearing a sheep.

Photo: Supplied

G idin he a es in auranga

right across them after recently taking up the exhilarating sport of wing foiling.

“I’ve always loved water sports, ” said the 25-yearold electrician, who’s lived in Tauranga for five years “White water kayaking took over my life for a while, running rapids in Rotorua and in the Kaimai Range but it’s not something you can easily do for an hour after work I wanted a sport that was close to home ”

Wing foiling combines a board fitted with a hydrofoil and a handheld wing Hall was gifted lessons in November with Foil Sports NZ by his parents

“It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever learned You’ve got to be precise because the foil and the wing move independently,” he explained “It was my third lesson before I got up but when you ’ re flying across the water, it’s a strange, cool feeling with no noise, just the wind ”

More like sailing than traditional surfing, wing foiling allows Hall to get on the inner Tauranga Harbour even when the surf isn’t reliable “If there’s a little wind, I can head out after work off Kulim or Fergusson Park and get those endorphins ” d

wing up means your arms don’t get getting back on after falling can be

loved The sport is physically demanding, particularly on the shoulders and arms.

“Holding the w a break, and gett tiring,” he said “ g p , p down small The wing folds into a backpack and the rest lies flat in the boot of the car I’m renting from Foil Sports NZ while I save my pennies for my own setup ”

“The gear is expensive, but it packs

Despite being a beginner, Hall is already hooked

“It’s fun, it’s different, and a little weird If you ’ re into water sports, give it a crack ”

Foil Sports NZ instructor Seba Baruffaldi said in less than a decade, wing foiling has surged in popularity

“We started teaching wing foiling as soon as the gear became available Lessons ensure people learn basic techniques correctly and will have faster progression in the sport A lot of wing foilers come from a kiteboarding or windsurfing background but just as many are people picking it up as their first water sport The average age is fairly high because it’s easier on the body Flying smoothly above the waves saves knees a great deal of work ”

For more information, go to www foilsports co nz

Debbie Griffiths

Lewis Hall isn’t making waves; he’s gliding

Lewis Hall in action in the Tauranga Harbour

Photo: David Hall

ere are three easy ways to identify backyard predators

Firstly, look for faeces, or teeth marks on fruit, or claw marks on trees You can set out chew cards – the teeth marks left on chew cards can help identify fy exactly y which p predators are paying you a visit. They also tell you where in your backyard the predators are visiting and good places to put a trap Tracking tunnels are another great way to identify predators. The predator walks through ink on a pad, leaving clear footprints you can use for identification.

Oh rats!

The two rats most often found in New Zealand backyards are the ship rat and the Norway rat. Rats are generally nocturnal and reclusive. Both species are neophobic, meaning they avoid new foods or situations. Just because you have never seen them, does not mean they are absent!

The ship rat – also called the common rat or black rat – has large ears and a tail that’s longer than its body This rat is the biggest threat to wildlife because it’s a good climber and can reach nests in trees.

Identif ing back ard predators

The Norway rat – also called the brown rat – is larger, with a short, thick tail and small ears

Norway rats are good swimmers and prey on ground-nesting birds, their eggs and their chicks

They are able to climb trees but spend most of their time on the ground

Sustainable Backyards is back and bigger than ever as the team at Envirohub BOP celebrate 20 years of championing sustainability in the Bay of Plenty

“Throughout the entire month of March, Envirohub BOP is proud to present a jam-packed calendar of events that will inspire, educate, and connect communities across the region,” said Sustainable Backyards coordinator Te Ara Dirkse

eco-warrior or just starting your sustainability journey, there’s something for everyone

If you have rats in the backyard, you may well have mice in the vicinity too The common house mouse is New Zealand’s smallest introduced predator

Possums

Possums have furry bodies, a long bushy tail and pointed ears. They are similar in size to a cat and are nocturnal. Possums are a threat to our forests and native wildlife. They eat leaves, flowers, leaf buds, fruit, eggs, birds, insects, and snails. In backyards, they cause havoc to fruit trees and rose bushes!

They are messy eaters, leaving ragged edges on leaves and partially eaten fruit and flowers on the ground.

Feral, stray, and owned cats also prey on birds, lizards, wētā and other species The SPCA recommend keeping domestic cats happy and safe at home.

Crawford

Rosalie Liddle

“Whether you ’ re a seasoned

“Expect Upcycling Workshops, Benefit Concerts, bird themed Fun Runs, Film Screenings, Eco Markets, Bus Tours, guided Bush Walks, organic and permaculture Garden Tours, Clothing Swaps and so much more to come ” For more info about the Sustainable Backyards events, follow the Facebook page: www facebook com/sustainablebackyards

Council considers options for

Tauranga City Council will soon ask residents how they want water services delivered for the next 30 years as part of aligning with the Government’s Local Water Done Well policy direction

Engagement on water proposals, allowing the community to give feedback, will happen alongside the draft Annual Plan consultation from late-March 2025

PICK UP YOUR FREE COPY

NZME, 405 Cameron Rd

Pak ‘n Save, Cameron Rd, Tauranga Goddards Arcade, 55 Devonport Rd

Tauranga Airport

Brookﬁeld Food Mart, 75 Bellevue Rd

Matua Dairy 97 Levers Rd, Matua

Eves, 19 Bethlehem Rd

Bethlehem

You can pick up one of our FREE publications from any of these places: Paper Plus, 130 Maunganui Rd Park Mini Mart, 423 Maunganui Rd New World, Cnr Maunganui Rd & Tweed St Mount RSA, 544 Maunganui Rd

Greerton Library

The Fresh Market, Gate Pa Shopping Centre

SuperValue Supermarket, 83 Pyes Pa Rd, Pyes Pa

Four Square The Lakes, 1 Caslani Lane, Pyes Pa

Four Square, Welcome Bay

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1 Ohauiti Road

Harties Liquor Store, 198 Maungatapu Road

Mount Beachside Holiday Park, 1 Adams Ave

Bayfair Shopping Centre information desk

FreshChoice Papamoa 20 Coast Boulevard, Papamoa Papamoa Plaza Papamoa Library

Four Square Papamoa, 4 Golden Sands Dr Countdown Bureta, Otumoetai

Four Square Cherrywood, Otumoetai

Patrick’s Pies, 19 Bethlehem Rd, Bethlehem

Four Square Bethlehem, 233A SH2, Bethlehem

Décor Gardenworld, 165 Moffat Rd, Bethlehem

FreshChoice Omokoroa, 160 Omokoroa Rd, Omokoroa

Katikati Informat on Centre, 36 Main Road, Katikati

In line with the Government’s Local Water Done Well policy direction, local councils are required to decide and consult on a proposed future model for delivering water services

The model is required to be included in a Water Services Delivery Plan, to set out how council plans to deliver services in the most cost-effective and efficient way possible, while allocating enough money for future upgrades to keep pace with the city’s growing needs

At a December 9 meeting, a business case was presented to Tauranga’s mayor and councillors outlining the options for consideration

Three options

At the meeting the council confirmed it will seek community feedback on three options: The council’s current delivery model (the status quo), and its preferred options of establishing a jointly-owned, two-water or three-water councilcontrolled organisation involving another council or councils that would achieve mutual benefits; or a standalone Tauranga City Council CCO, which would also cover stormwater

A CCO is an entity controlled by a local authority, or multiple local authorities CCOs are governed by their own boards but are still accountable to the council or councils that control them

A CCO was identified as the preferred option, based on several criteria including financial sustainability and the opportunity to increase efficiency and effectiveness

In addition to looking at potential partners in the wider Bay of Plenty and Waikato regions, Tauranga City Council will continue working with Western Bay of Plenty District Council to progress the option of establishing a jointlyowned CCO

Big decision

Mayor Mahé Drysdale said this is a big decision for the community “Council has heard loud and clear from the community in the past that water assets must stay in council ownership and under local government control We want to assure people that this won ’ t change,” he said “Like other councils, our challenge is that an up-to-date waters network is going to be expensive ”

Drysdale said over time the cost of delivering water services across New Zealand will increase, regardless of any changes to service delivery models – and the ongoing challenge for Tauranga will be to meet the requirements for water regulation while providing financially sustainable future water services in a growth city

future delivery of water services

“Whatever we do, we want to manage those costs for our community as best we can

“I understand there will be concern about the loss of control in creating a CCO and

working with partners, which we will be looking to provide greater clarity around, but there are also some real advantages

“Everyone will continue to receive the same great quality

drinking water and they’ll still be able to do everything they do now ”

Drysdale said a CCO would provide improvements around efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery and would enable council to increase its other debt capacity “which would mean we could borrow more to invest in infrastructure upgrades where they are needed”

Access

Engagement on the waters options will continue with iwi partners and stakeholders and the community will be asked for feedback alongside the draft annual plan consultation from late March

If a decision is made to change

Tips for when the bills roll in

With Christmas gone and the summer holidays well under way, Bay Financial Mentors Tau Awhi Noa are quiet during January – but they expect to get busy come February-March.

This is when children head back to school and credit card and “buy now, pay later” bills roll in, said Bay Financial Mentors general manager Shirley McCombe.

McCombe said the biggest financial drains during the summer period are Christmas gifts and the increase in food costs with children at home and family visiting to celebrate.

“January is usually quiet, but it gets busy in February and March. We generally get busier and busier, especially in the second half of the year ” McCombe said the service’s purpose is to provide financial mentoring, advocacy and education “ so every person has sustainable financial wellbeing for themselves and future generations”.

Most calls to the service are from people requiring support with the cost of living and debt.

“We work closely with the various foodbanks around the area and do significant amount of work with debt reduction, including negotiation, advocacy, hardship applications, KiwiSaver and insolvency.”

McCombe said the most effective strategy for budgeting over summer and the holidays is planning and setting spending limits “The best time to start preparing for Christmas is Boxing Day”

McCombe said there are some common budgeting mistakes that should be avoided Using “buy now, pay later”, Visa, store or credit cards to buy gifts or go on a holiday which you can ’ t afford are no-nos

“Nothing is cheap if you don’t need it, or you end up paying vast amounts more because you default or incur interest ”

When preparing your budget for the holidays, McCombe said it has to be realistic and based on your financial situation

When it comes to managing travel expenses, McCombe said, “Plan and save so you are not coming home to a debt you can ’ t service.”

“We live in paradise There are lots of activities that don’t cost the earth ”

McCombe said planning your holiday budget is also a great learning opportunity “Involve the kids, work out a budget, and get them to help decide how you will get the most out of it ”

And there are a few habits that can save you money over summer “Air conditioning is expensive Cool showers before bed help, and ventilate the house during the day to create cross-breeze where you can ”

Sorted NZ has many tools to help track expenses, said McCombe. “But working alongside a mentor is the best way to stay on track and it is absolutely free ”

For more information about Bay Financial Mentors, phone 07 578 0969 or visit: https:// tgabudget.org.nz.

For tools on budgeting and tracking spending, visit: https://sorted.org nz/tools

Salva d’or Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria is furnished with antique ornaments evoking pleasant memories of another time

Locals have been enjoying Mediterranean and European specialities since 2013 at Salva d’or Personalised menu for adults and children Ideal for your winter and summer time dine in and take away evenings

the current water service delivery model, based on community feedback, any change to council’s delivery services structure would take effect from July 2026.

“Whatever delivery model we adopt, this plan is intended to

ensure our community will always have access to clean, safe and reliable council-controlled water services,”

Drysdale said For more information, visit: letstalk tauranga govt nz/ localwaterdonewell

Mayor Mahé Drysdale.

Photo: Alisha Evans

Freedom from Arch Pain

You might not be able to exercise, keep up with family and friends work or even get out of bed in the morning without hobbling. You have spent hundreds of dollars on orthotics that don’t fit in all your shoes.

Nothing’s worse than feeling great mentally, but physically feeling held back from life because your feet hurt and the pain just won’t go away!

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Foot Pain Is Not Just ‘old age’

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Have an Expert Podiatrist Evaluate Your Foot for Only $35 (Usually $105)

Offer valid between 10th - 24th January 2025

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• An in-depth consultation about your foot pain.

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The importance of good skincare products in summer

Summer brings longer days, warm sunshine and outdoor activities – but it also poses unique challenges for our skin.

The combination of increased sun exposure, heat and humidity can lead to a variety of skin concerns, from dehydration and sunburn to premature aging and breakouts. This makes using high-quality skincare products essential during the summer months.

One of the most crucial products in any summer skincare routine is sunscreen. Daily use of a broadspectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher protects the skin from

harmful UVA and UVB rays, which can cause sunburn, dark spots, and long-term damage like wrinkles or skin cancer

Alongside sunscreen, lightweight moisturisers and hydrating serums enriched with ingredients like hyaluronic acid can help replenish moisture lost due to heat and increased perspiration, keeping the skin supple and radiant.

Good skincare also means addressing the excess oil production

Mobile blood donation drives in BOP this month

This month New Zealand Blood Service is hosting mobile donation drives across the Bay of Plenty to continue to meet demand throughout the busy holiday season.

NZBS national marketing and communications manager Shane Paramore said summer was an “extremely challenging” time to meet demand for blood and blood products

Last month NZBS needed more than 2500 appointments for blood and plasma donations in the Bay of Plenty before Christmas to ensure demand could be met throughout the holidays. Paramore said people were “understandably busy” before Christmas, then most took a wellearned break. “But the reality is the need for blood and plasma never stops and as New Zealanders stock up for Christmas, we need to do the same, ” Paramore said.

“Your donation of blood or plasma will help ensure that patients at their most vulnerable will

Volunteers neededto fight heart disease

The Heart Foundation is calling on Kiwis to gift a couple of hours of their time in February to volunteer as a Big Heart Appeal street collector and raise funds for heart research.

The Big Heart Appeal is the foundation’s biggest fundraiser – and in 2025 is scheduled for Friday, February 21, and Saturday, February 22 Heart Foundation medical director Dr Gerry Devlin said there are a million NZers living with heart disease

“It’s still the number-one killer Funds raised help us to make a big difference, whether it is supporting research that results in improved treatments and medications or investing in overseas training for our young cardiologists

so we can offer world-class care in NZ ”

that summer often triggers G Gentle cleansers and non-comedogeenic products are essential for preeventing clogged pores and acne breakkouts without stripping the skin of f its natural oils. Additionally, antioxidants like vitamin C s serums can provide an extra layer of f defense against environmental damaage caused by pollution and UV V rays Investing in quality skincarre products tailored to summer r ’ s demands not only protects thhe skin but ensures it stays healthy, vibrant, and glowing. By prioritising proper skincare, you can fully enjoy y the season while minimising the e risk of long-term damage.

get the lifesaving transfusion they need ” Paramore saiid someone i in N New Zealland d needded d a transfusion every 18 minutes A donation took about an hour and can “genuinely make the difference between life and death”

As a result, the NZBS is hosting mobile donation drives across Bay of Plenty this month, including stops in Pāpāmoa, Mount Maunganui and Ōmokoroa

The mobile donation drive stops in Bay of Plenty are at Pāpāmoa Surf Lifesaving Club, 561 Pāpāmoa Rd, on January 20-21; Club Mount Maunganui, 45 Kawaka St, on January 22; and the Ōmokoroa Pavilion, 28 Western Ave on January 23.

“This summer, we’ll be actively targeting popular holiday destinations with our mobile drives in the hopes of making it as easy as possible for people to donate without disrupting their holiday,” Paramore said

Interested donors can download the NZBS donor app or visit: www.nzblood.co.nz

ime for a ca ch-up – 202 apped

In the blink of an eye, we ’ re back!

The brave new world is forming around us Holding any 2025 news until next week, I wanted to begin with things I missed last year

To start I want to mention the passing in December of the great high school band director, trombonist, and brass teacher Paul Sanders It’s a while since he lived in Tauranga – Paul was most recently teaching in Rotorua – but many will remember him from the good old bad old days, back in the mid-eighties when he led Tauranga Boys’ College Big Band to their first win in the National Jazz Festival Youth Band Competition. Paul was one of those special inspirational teachers, who taught and nurtured students far beyond the demands of just playing an instrument; he was a generous and loyal friend.

Damian Forlong, trombonist in the Rodger Fox Band and leader of Wellington swing kings Shaken Not Stirred, talks of the many professional musicians in their 20s that he plays with who had the benefit of Paul’s guidance

And when Damian was just starting “Paul also

took in 16-year-old me when I had nowhere else to go Played me his records, took me to jam sessions, led by example on how to conduct myself, without any lectures ”

First Rodger, now Paul. A bad year for musicteaching trombonists As Damian said: “If you are going to teach music at any level, don’t go through the motions, try to be inspirational as Paul Sanders was, because it can make a difference.”

To finish: a surprising amount of recorded music emerged from the Tauranga area last year and, as recording and releasing music increasingly becomes a labour of love that costs rather than makes money for artists, this is worth celebrating

Debuting tracks

Catching up, days before Christmas came ‘Wake’, a debut 4-track EP from local fuzzdriven alt-rock bass and drums duo This Is How We Die, and earlier last year I missed a live album from keyboard wiz Akash Duttah: ‘The Trio Sessions’, recorded in Baycourt’s X-Space during the National Jazz Festival, features piano arrangements of popular songs, from The Beatles’ ‘And I Love Her’ to Nirvana’s ‘Heart-Shaped Box’ Most excellent

Though surely missing some - my apologies - this week’s playlist features exclusively music released in 2024 by Bay musicians. There’s jazz and blues, electronica and punk, country and folk, indie and alternative, and many shades of metal...

So hats off to all of them for enriching our lives

For the record, that’s The Knids, Marmalade Skies, Sophie-Maude, Shadow & Light, Crooked Finger, We Will Ride Fast, Kokomo, Mike Garner, Joanne Melbourne, Jill Leighton, Frances Ellen, Joseph & Maia, Whiskey Soho, Weston & Paulie, Gary Harvey, Ben Lloyd, Anthony Coulter, Unit 51, Somacaine, Dead Empire, The Darlings, Midwave Breaks, Ravines, John Michaelz, the Black Brothers Band, The Artist Red, Six Two’s, Threat Meet Protocol, Fiona Cosgrove, Micah, Billy Two, No Reply, Audio Storm, The Afrolites, Club Meds, Georgia Lines, and Liam Ryan And probably more Have a listen!

Paul Sanders with the Tauranga Boys’ College Big Band in 1985.

Paul Sanders and The Dr Jaz Band.

Paul Sanders.

A map showing where the closure will be taking place and alternative routes for drivers

L Lane closure for TEL for multi-ssport event

Eastbound lanes of the Tauranga Eastern Link will be closed for a day next week.

The lanes between Pāpāmoa and Paengaroa (towards Whakatāne / Rotorua) will be closed between 5 30am and 1pm on Saturday, January 18, for the cycle leg of the Tauranga Half Triathlon, which is part of the Mount Festival of Multisport

This is the fifth year the event has used

the Toll Road lanes for the cycle leg and NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is pleased to be able to support the ongoing success of the event, a spokesperson for the roading agency said

The alternative route for motorists during this time is via Te Puke Highway

NZTA warned minor delays may be experienced for toll road users during this time and traffic management will be in place at the Domain Road Interchange and Paengaroa Roundabout.

The westbound lanes between Paengaroa and Pāpāmoa will operate as usual.

“For safety reasons, the Paengaroa Roundabout will be closed to spectators and traffic management will be in place.

“The best place to watch the event is along Marine Parade and Oceanbeach Road, Mount Maunganui.”

For more information on road closures relating to the Mount Festival of Multisport, visit: tauranga govt nz/council/ council-news-and-updates/road-closures

SUN

Saturday 11 January

Art in the Park

Original art for sale Coronation Park, Mt Maunganui Weather permitting 9am - 5pm Tauranga Society of Artists

Association Croquet

On Sat, Mon, & Wed 9 15am for 9 30am start; at Club Mt Maunganui, 45 Kawaka St New players & Visitors welcome Ph Malcolm 027 681 5204

Bay Singles Social Group

Join a bunch of over 50s young singles Weekend dinners, pot lucks, occasional outings Have a go! Ph Delia 027 284 8762, Andrea 021 133 0313

Beginners Pétanque

Saturday afternoons en famille Pétanque is fun for all ages/ abilities Boules (of steel) and assistance provided Ph Ray on 027 756 3565 for more info

Beth-El Messianic Family

Beth-El Messianic Family Celebrate Shabbat (Sabbath) as did Messiah Yeshua (Jesus), his disciples and early believers All welcome Otumoetai Primary 10am or Youtube Live @10am or FaceBook Live 11am Joel 021 768 043 info@bethel org 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

City Night Markets!

Eat Play Shop Repeat - Every Saturday! Incredible range of food shopping live music games free fun & more! Elizabeth St Parking Building 5pm-9pm www citynightmarkets co nz Course In Miracles

Join us via zoom as we extend healing to those in need Saturdays 9 - 9:30am Email miraclesnewzealand@gmail com for the zoom address Info at https://circleofa org/pray

Indoor Bowls

Saturday, Tuesday and Wednesday 12 45 am start 50+ and over Afternoon tea is provided 14 Norris Street (behind Pak n Save) Phone Carol 022 639 2411

Laughter is the best medicine!

Enjoy 45 minutes of fun and laughter yoga at Arataki Community Centre from 10am Phone Jude 021 0277 5901

Rotary Tauranga Book Sale

Donation sites open 20 January to 23 February 2025 Books jigsaws, magazines, DVDs, CDs, music sheets, records, curtains, oil heaters Site list https://www facebook com/ taurangarotarynewzealand/ or https://taurangarotaryorg nz

Tauranga Social Dance Club

Sequence Dance 2nd Sat monthly 7pm St Johns Church Hall Bureta $7 plus raffles Supper All welcome Ph Nola 027 323 2882

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 Ph Margie 021 500 320

Tauranga Golf Croquet

Tuesday and Friday 9 30 - Noon and 1pm to 3 30pm Saturday 9 30-Noon and Sunday 1pm-3 30pm Golf Croquet at Tauranga Domain Cameron Rd New players welcome Ph Gretchen 576 7169

Te Puna Speedshear

The Point Ale House in Plummers Point Rd Some of the top NZ Shearers shear a sheep as fast as from 5:30pm

Sunday 12 January

Accordion Music Group

Every third Sunday of the month, Welcome Bay Hall, 1-4pm, $4 00pp, afternoon tea supplied, everyone welcome to an afternoon of evergreen music Ph 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 Enjoy travel?

Friendship Force could be for you! Be home-hosted overseas & host international travellers Meetings Bethlehem Omokoroa Ph Diane 027 249 9859, Jonathan 572 2091 Golf Croquet

Sun, Tues & Thurs at C ub Mt Maunganui, 45 Kawaka St; at 8 30am for 9am start New players & Visitors welcome Ph Graham 027 280 5658 Park and Bark

Playgroup for small dogs to socialise and build

confidence Every Sunday from 1 30pm-2 30pm at Sydenham Park Brookfield Free of charge

Quakers in Tauranga

Explore your spiritual journey amongst supportive Friends in our mostly silent meeting All welcome Third Sunday of month 10am-12 Hall behind Brain Watkins House Corner Cameron/Elisabeth Street Ph 027 387 2790 Quakers nz 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

Radio Controlled Model Yachts

Sundays 1:00-3:30pm, at Pond behind 22 Montego Drive Papamoa sailing Electron Radio Controlled Yachts for fun and competition Adult beginners welcome Graham 572 5419

Sounds Natural Sound Bath Healing tones that deeply relax and refresh Every second Sunday of the month, 2-4pm, Mount Maunganui Community Hall Contact Anne 027 471 3122 for details

Tauranga Model Aircraft Club

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

Tauranga Organ Keyboard Society

Meets at 1 30pm Carmel Country Estate Social Centre, 11 Hollister Lane, Ohauiti, Tauranga Play or listen to Organ, Clavinova, Piano Maureen 544 5013

Monday 13 January

500 Card Group

Every Monday (except public holidays) from 9 30-11 30am, held at Age Concern, 177A Fraser Street, Tauranga, $2 donation light refreshment provided - all welcome!

Cards (500)

Monday and Thursday 12 45 pm start 50+ and over 14

Norris Street (behind Pak n Save) Phone carol 022 639 2411

Chess in Mount Maunganui

544 Maunganui Rd Mount RSA Mondays (excl public holidays) Early program 6 15pm-7pm Late program 7pm onwards Casual chess allowed Search Western BoP Chess

Creative Fibre Tauranga

Knitting crochet spinning weaving felting & dyeing

Mondays 9:30am & 2nd and 4th Thursdays 6:30pm 177 Elizabeth St Enjoy learning new crafts Ph Joan 021 323 325

Euchre

Tauranga Euchre club Mondays 7pm - 9pm Inquiries plse TXT 027 543 0872

Greerton Garden Club

Greerton Garden Club meets at 1pm 2nd Monday of the month - St James Church Hall, Pooles Rd, Greerton All welcome Ph 07 5796003

Invitation to singing men

Harmony-A-Plenty has been singing for twenty years We practise Monday evenings 7-9pm Ph Frank 576 3037 David 576 0578

Keep On Your Feet

Omokoroa, 11am-12, Settlers Hall, 334 Omokoroa Rd

Strength & Balance classes for older adults all levels of fitness

welcome Contact Sharnie on 021 111 8617

Pre-loved art to donate

Down-sizing or moving, have pre-loved ART you cannot take with you Donate to Rotary Tauranga Book and Art sale Contact Joan 021 670 044 or Margaret 027 497 9308

Tai Chi Practice Group

Join our friendly group Mondays 11 30am Mount Community Hall, 345 Maunganui Road All ages and abilities welcome Parking available Bus stop nearby Enquires Jay 022 467 5687

Tauranga City Brass

Brass & percussion players wanted to join Junior and Senior Band Contact Secretary Ian at Ian murraytaurangabrass@ outlook co nz Bandroom at 10 Yatton Street Greerton

Tauranga and District Stamp Club

Every second Monday (10am) and fourth Monday (7 30pm) of each month Wesley Hall 100 Thirteenth Avenue New members welcome Ross 578 8215 Jill 578 0930

Tauranga Vision Club

Tauranga Vision Club (affiliated to Friendship NZ) meets 4th Monday each month at Tauranga Citz Club 10 am - noon New members welcome Phone Jim 022 088 7760

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

U3A Tauranga Seniors Group

We have interest groups running Mon-Fri Computing, card & board games, dining, films, history, music, photography, exercise, sciences See our website www u3atauranga kiwi nz

Tuesday 14 January

500 Card Club

Mount Community Hall 12 15 pm Fun and friendly group All ages all welcome Afternoon tea provided Parking available Bus stop nearby Queries to 027 658 6848

Altrusa Ladies Service Group

Join a group of women for community projects & social events Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays Pam 027 253 7562 or visit www altrusa org nz

Bayfair Petanque Club

Join us for some fun at Bayfair Reserve, Russley Dr 12 45 to 2 30pm, Tues and Thurs New players very welcome Call 021 158 0129 for details

Body+Soul for 50+

Fun Fitness for men and women Exercise for better health strength and balance to great music Tauranga Senior Citizens hall Norris St Ph Dianne 027 431 4326

Cherrywood Probus

Meet every 2nd Tuesday of Month @ Citizens Club 13th Ave 10 00am Come along for Fun Fellowship And 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 All Welcome

Community Connect Morning Tea

St George’s Anglican Church 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 10am Enjoy coffee, yummy treats and chat Free Public Advocacy Service

Every Tuesday, Greerton Library, 1-2:30pm

Greerton Indoor Bowling Club

Club Night Greerton Senior Citizens Hall

Maitland Street New Members welcome

Coaching available Phone Sally 021 172 6004

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 Contact Mike 021 180 7429

Inachord Singers Tauranga

Women’s Chorus Join us with our new Musical Director

Dan Ireremia 7pm Bethlehem Community Church 183 Moffat Road Contact: Julie 021 0252 6805 or Sabine 021 111 8659

Keep On Your Feet

Katikati Rugby & Sports Club, Moore Park 10 30-11 30am

Strength & Balance classes for older adults, all levels of fitness

welcome Contact Sharnie 021 111 8617

Let’s Learn Something New

An A-Z of Clubs, Courses & Classes happening now Find an activity, join, & do it! All ages www letslearn co nz or ph 07 578 9416

Olympic Style Rifle Shooting

Every Tuesday evening at 7 00pm at the Tauranga Target Rifle Club’s range, 165 Elizabeth Street, opposite Tyre master

Public welcome All gear and coaching provided

Overeaters Anonymous

Is your eating out of control? Undereating, overeating - OA can help Meet Tuesday, 7-8pm, and Friday, 11am to 12 Ph or text 022 048 8275

Papamoa Table Tennis Club

Club nights Tuesdays 7pm to 9pm Papamoa College Gym

All levels welcome Ph John 021 038 6025

Recycled Teenagers Gentle Exercise

St Mary’s church Cnr Girven & Marlin 9-10 30am

Suitable for joint replacements arthritics recovery from accident & illness Strength coordination & balance Jennifer 027 206 0776

Science fiction coffee club

Enthusiasts of science fiction or emerging technologies including AI, electro magnetic frequencies, humanities futuristic future Meet like minded people over a coffee and chat Phone Dan 022 462 3316

Tauranga Embroderers Guild

Meets everyTuesday @ Bowls Tauranga South 15 Tutchen St (off 11th Ave) 10am-2 30pm and 7-9pm Beginners very welcome Contact Linda Inglis ph 027 369 0984

Tauranga Patchwork & Quilters

Every 1st & 3rd Tuesday at 7pm and 2nd & 4th Friday

at 10am Tauranga Art & Craft Centre, 177 Elizabeth St

Contact: taurangaquilters@gmail com

Tauranga Model Railway Club

Club meets Tuesday 9 30am & Thursday

7 30pm corner Mirrielees & Cross roads, Sulphur Point Ph Mike 021 939 233

Tauranga Scrabble Club

Tuesday Scrabble, Meet weekly at Tauranga Citz Club 9:30am - 12:45 3 games played Ph Jo Ann 021 836 067

Tauranga SeniorNet Club

Open Day & Registration Day--Tuesday 14th January at Building No70 Historic Village Tga All welcome Visit our website --taurangaseniornet co nz for more information

Want to play Petanque?

Have fun playing Petanque at Bayfair Reserve, Russley Drive

6 00 to 7 30pm Tuesday and Thursdays 6th Jan to 20th Feb

Call 0211580129 for details

Wednesday 15 January

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 Kulim Park, Bureta

Beginner Social Ballroom/Latin Group

Starts 12 Feb, 6 30pm-7 30pm, Welcome Bay School Hall

Just come along on the night to enrol More details please ring Sonia 027 322 1786

Body+Soul 50+Fun Fitness

For better health, strength and balance to great music Men and women welcome, make new friends 9 15am Bethlehem hall opposite Woolworths Ph Dianne 027 431 4326

Bolivia Te Puke

Every Wednesday Lyceum Club 8 Palmer Place 1pm-4pm

beginners welcome Come and join our friendly group Ph Brenda 027 229 6992

Cards Cribbage

Join us Wednesday’s 12 45pm for 1pm start RSA Greerton Friendly club New members very welcome Phone Jill 021 1606 143

Coffee/Conversation Group - Brookfield

Age Concern Tauranga holds a friendly Coffee and Conversation Group at St Stephens Church, 9 Brookfield Terrace, 10 30am - 12noon, cost $5pp All Welcome

Fernland Spa Gentle Exercise

Warm mineral water, no chlorine Suitable for joint replacements, arthritics & recovery from accident & illness

Strength, coordination & balance Not school holidays Jennifer 027 206 0776

Marching For Leisure

Need help completing a form? Accompany you to an appointment? Talk to an agency? Come speak to an Advocate!

A non-competitive activity for mature ladies Fun fitness and friendship For details and contacts for Tauranga teams

& 2nd & 4th Thursdays 6:30pm. 177 Elizabeth St Enjoy learning new crafts. Ph Joan 021 323 325 Flexercise with Fitness League Exercise, movement, dance, focusing on posture, balance, stretching, strengthening & flexibility, suits all ages and abilities,10am, Central Baptist Church, 13th Ave, Tga. Pam 021 117 7170

Flower market Wholesale cut flowers at The Floral Hub every Thursday morning 8 -9.30am. Holy Trinity Tauranga, cnr Devonport Rd & Third Ave. DIY weddings our specialty

Free Public Advocacy Service

Need help completing a form? Accompany you to an appointment? Talk to an agency? Come see us! Every Thursday, Welcome Bay Community Centre, 1-2.30pm. Healing Rooms Prayer NEW VENUE & DAY BEGINS 23rd January 6-8pm Every Thursday St Peters Church. 130 Spring St Experience God’s healing All welcome. www.healingrooms.com 027 640 1263

Keynotes Women’s Barbershop Chorus Can you sing in tune? Women, age no barrier, invited to join us,7pm Wesley Hall, 100 13th Avenue. Ph Bernice 576 4848, Facebook Keynotes Inc.

Learn to Skate

Get rolling on your rollerskates with our team at Skate Camp this January! Suitable for all levels, ages & abilities. Entry $15 per lesson. Jan 9 to 23

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

Friday 17 January

Free Public Advocacy Service Need help completing a form? Accompany you to an appointment? Talk to an agency? Come see us! Every Friday at Pāpāmoa Library 1-2:30pm. Cards 500 & Rummikub Senior Citizens Club Te Puke 8 Palmer Place Lyceum Club 12.45-3pm. Come and have some fun Afternoon tea provided. All welcome. Contact Brenda 027 229 6992 Connecting in Te Puna Social club meets every second Friday of month in Te Puna Memorial Hall 1-3pm usually a guest speaker, always afternoon tea. Everyone welcome. Judith Callow 07 552 6755

Tauranga Seniornet Club

Tauranga Senior Net--Coaching to improve the computer skills of age 40+ adults, for more information & class timetable--visit our website: tauranga@seniornet.nz

co nz

Email:

A

blind driver cannot see dangers

R Representative versus representing Peace and good will

There seems to be some confusion among our new Tauranga City councillors regarding their representative roles. It appears some take the view that they are elected for their skills and competencies to govern and lead the city Such councillors tend to pop up at election time, and their communities see little of them until the next election. They see themselves as governors or elected board members.

This was highlighted in a recently reported comment by one of the new councillors: “We are the Governors, and we can ’ t allow the people to challenge our decisions”.

Local Government NZ defines elected members as representatives and advocates for their community to engage with their communities and represent their views. Most

Oruahine

academic definitions all agree that a representative is a person who represents another person or a group, someone chosen to speak or act for other people.

Local Government NZ defines a councillor role as elected representatives expected to represent their communities in decision and policy-making. To accurately represent the community infers decisions based on a communal consensus – not the opinion of an elected member To achieve this elected members, need to be active about their wards, all credit to councillors Crowther, Curach, Morris and Mayor Drysdale who to my knowledge have attended community and ratepayers meetings and listened to their ratepayers

Michael O’Neill, Tauranga City

track

The Oruahine track on Mauao will be temporarily closed next week for maintenance

The track closure will take place from 7am on Wednesday, January 15, until 4pm on Friday, January 17

“This closure is to ensure public safety while pest plant control work is undertaken via abseilers above the track,” said a council spokesperson in a statement released this week

People wanting to climb to the summit of Mauao are being asked to use the Waikorire or Motukauri tracks instead

A rather difficult situation occurs when you come off the motorway at Cambridge Rd at the Ōtūmoetai turnoff If you are turning right and traffic on your left is turning left, it means you cannot see the road because vehicles block your view

A large mirror across the road would help Large road signs in the area are also a vision problem A blind driver cannot see dangers. How many people have experienced this situation? The New Zealand Transport Agency should have a look before an accident happens.

Ron Chamberlain, Ōtūmoetai

Veryuglyindeed

I was lucky enough to go for a walk through the CBD recently Lots of spaces in the carparking buildings, the sun was shining and I stopped for a delicious coffee in Oscar & Otto What more could you ask for? Well, read on The waterfront looks dreadful, unfinished, too much concrete and a monster red and black children’s slide. What an eyesore! Very ugly indeed Very disappointed, also not a child in sight. I am amazed that this all the commissioners could come up with.

Diana Haycock, Avenues

Back in the 1600s in Europe there were many wars. These ended because agreements were signed saying that Kings would not demand their subjects follow their conversion to a particular religious belief People were free to choose.

Like those kings, let us resist the temptation to go to war The more religious and cultural values are imposed by law, the more fractured and intolerant New Zealand will become. It is suffering for others, and kindness –things which cannot be created by paper in a government department – that unites us Unity in New Zealand must be based, as it has for almost two centuries, on treating others the way we would want them to treat us

Our national anthem is a request to God to protect us from “dissension, envy and hate”. Some would say, God’s love was shown in the suffering and sacrifice of his Son for the sake of bringing hope, and to reconcile enemies

His birth, the very first Christmas, was proclaimed by angels with the words: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men”.

Andrew Clow, Te Puna

closure on Mauao next weeek

The base track will remain open throughout, said council

“If this work is delayed because of weather or other unforeseen circumstances, it may be carried out at another suitable date ”

For more information about tracks and locations on Mauao, visit the council’s website - www tauranga govt nz

“With about a million visitors walking up or around the maunga each year, Mauao is currently one of New Zealand’s top scenic walks

“We appreciate your patience while we undertake these works to help protect a treasured taonga of cultural, historical, spiritual and natural significance ”

Churches Active In Our Community

Church is like a human bod

If I asked you, “What are the major biblical metaphors for church?”, I wonder what would spring to your mind first?

Would family be the first metaphor you think of? I hope so, because the Bible presents God as our Father, Christ as the bridegroom and the church as the bride

The church is referred to as the household of God and those who comprise it are repeatedly called children of God and brothers and sisters

Do you indeed affectionately treat other Christians as

family members? Just as families come together regularly, is that where you ’ re at with regard to assembling with other believers?

Probably the second major metaphor for church is the body Just as a human body has many specialised and interconnected parts which support each other and cause the whole body to flourish, so, too, the church is made up of people with different roles and abilities

In likening the church to a physical body, Paul the Apostle said the hand can ’ t say to the eye, “I don’t need you ” , and the head can ’ t say

to the feet, “I don’t need you ” No, much rather, those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary

These metaphors speak volumes Body parts need connection to flourish Ideal families stick together and exhibit great loyalty

You personally may have had some offputting experiences, but why not pursue the ideal church and experience Christ, the head of the body, which is meant for you? God knows the church needs you too, to thrive in 2025!

David Kidd, Church of God’s Love

public notices

It was resolved by special resolution of the shareholders, pursuant to section 241(2)(a) of the Companies Act 1993 that the above-named companies be liquidated and that David Thomas, LIP be appointed liquidator for the purpose on the dates and times below