The Woodpecker - March 2023

Produced for the community, by the community

Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Canterbury

Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Canterbury would like to give a BIG shout out to Rātā Foundation for its recent grant and incredible support over the years.

The Foundation’s generous funding will ensure that we can continue to provide Mentors and positive role models to North Canterbury’s

rangatahi, creating life-changing matches like Keighley (Big) and Aleisha (Little) pictured.

Find out more about mentoring a child

in need in your community, call 03 310 7004 or email northcanterbury@bbbs. nz today.

Editor’s Note

Tēnā koutou

And here we are already on the first day of autumn, just like that! Mind you we are still squeezing the good weather in for a wee while yet despite the evenings drawing in. My thoughts are with all the affected and displaced families and businesses who have been affected by the recent cyclone in North Island. This month I wanted to advise you of a couple of updates. One being due to the continued new-builds rapidly going up in Ravenswood in particular, we are having to increase our delivery and printing numbers by another 100, to 3,600! This is great news for our advertisers who enjoy the increased exposure with no extra charge. Every month and at the beginning of the month, not only are copies delivered to every household in our delivery areas which covers Pegasus, Ravenswood, Tuahiwi, Woodend, Waikuku and all the beach areas, but the notice of The Woodpecker and the digital link is uploaded to a large amount of Facebook pages and groups as well as this link being circulated by various community groups to their members and mailing lists.

Over and above this of course the

digital link is also sent to our own mailing list.

If you aren’t on this list and would like to be added please just email and request this. You will note we are still on the lookout for a deliverer or two. We ideally would like an adult who enjoys walking and perhaps has a dog they could walk on their respective delivery route. If you are interested, please do email – we would love to have you as part of our wonderful volunteer team.

We are always on the lookout for more community groups and clubs to promote what they are doing. It’s great to see contributions coming in every month sharing achievements and lovely photos. Just a reminder, if you are part of a group or team you would like to promote, we would love to hear from you and share what you are doing with our readers.

The Woodpecker – ‘produced by the community for the community’

Ngā mihi nui

Debs Taylor-Hayhurst

The Editor – Woodpecker

debs.thewoodpecker@outlook.co.nz

All efforts are made to verify the correctness of information contained within this publication; however, The Woodpecker Community Trust accept no liability for the correctness or accuracy of any information contained within these pages. Any views, information or opinions expressed within this publication are not necessarily the opinions or views of The Woodpecker Community Trust or any of its providers.

Pegasus parkrun

In Canterbury it’s shaping up to be a very good year for parkun. Warm, dry summer weather and 2023 New Year’s resolutions are having a positive effect. All four parkrun events across Canterbury have been experiencing a healthy uptake in participant numbers. It’s encouraging to see so many new parkrunners joining us, it’s also great to see so many familiar faces back on the course around Lake Pegasus. Here at Pegasus, we have had 881 finishes across the finish line in 2023 to date, they were supported by 113 volunteer roles.

These growing numbers are similar to the same period in 2020, but back then we had to start cancelling events at the end of March because of COVID-19. Nevertheless, it’s great to see that

we are back to where we were pre-COVID, and that parkrunners are coming out and joining us for a 5K.

So, what’s all the fuss about? What makes over 100 normal people walk, run or jog 5K around Lake Pegasus every Saturday morning

Well, we think it’s because everyone likes to be fit – and it can be hard to find the right opportunity sometimes. For some, exercising is made easier when it can be done with others without having the pressure of having to interact.

parkruns are free, non-competitive,

social 5K events where you can walk, jog, or run at your own pace. It’s for everyone - no matter your age, background, experience level, fitness level or gender.

We have approximately 78 parkrunners at Pegasus each week. You don’t have to interact with anyone if you don’t want to – but it’s a great place to meet likeminded people from all walks of life.

And if that is not enough, here are a few more reasons:

• It could add years to your life

• parkrun connects you to your community

• Pegasus parkrun happens every week, at the same time and place

• It can keep your whole family fit. Even your dog!

• Connect to nature

• Its free and fun!

• It’s awesome for your mental health

We like to mix things up at Pegasus. In February we had a Valentine’s Day themed event where the friendly folks over at the Flat White Café provided a cake to celebrate. Much fun was had while red and pink dress up was the order of the day.

In March we celebrate St Patrick’s day with a green theme - so keep an eye out for walkers, joggers and runners dressed in green on Saturday 18-March at around 8am!

Everyone is welcome to join us – check out parkrun.co.nz/Pegasus, for have a search for ‘Pegasus parkrun’ on Facebook or Insta!

Rangiora Bridge Club LEARN TO PLAY BRIDGE FOR FREE!!

Bridge is a popular card game that has existed for centuries and is played around the world. Most people who learn the game find it addictive and challenging.

The local home of bridge is the Rangiora Bridge Club which is 56 years old and has about 220 members. It is situated behind the Rangiora Museum at 31 Good Street. Many people in The Woodpecker’s area are members and more are welcome.

COME AND LEARN TO PLAY!

There will be 11 weekly lessons at the club starting on Monday 17 April 2023 at 7pm. The lessons are free and will be taught by a top tutor.

ALL WELCOME!!

Please register by emailing rangiorabridge@xtra.co.nz or visit the club’s website www. rangiorabridgeclub.co.nz. You will be contacted following your registration. After learning, you will be welcome to join the club. It has several sessions of bridge each week at various levels of experience – you can play at levels from ‘for fun’ to ‘competitive’.

** See Community Contacts page for contact details**

Need more volunteers?

Does your not-for-profit community organisation need more volunteers?

The Waimakariri Volunteer Expos are a great opportunity for organisations and potential volunteers to meet and chat about the volunteer roles and skills needed. Priority places will be given to organisations who provide services beyond their own membership. The Volunteer Expos are happening in Kaiapoi, Pegasus and Rangiora, 18, 24 and 25 March. There is no cost to groups to book a place and the Expos are free entry. If your group would like to participate in the Volunteers Expos, please contact wendy.howe@wmk. govt.nz for more information.

Community Foot Care Clinic

Held in Woodend monthly. Phone 021 022 49443 for an appointment.

Woodpecker Deadline

The Woodpecker is published 11 months of the year from February to December inclusive (December covers January).

Each month the deadline is 25th of the month with a 5pm of deadline sent out to all contributors, advertisers and community contributors as a reminder.

To ensure your space please do send us in your contributions as early as possible where you can as we would hate for you to be disappointed and miss out.

From this deadline date there is a tight turnaround to have the publication ready to go to the printers for them to deliver them to all our deliverers in time for a 1st of the month delivery to your doors. debs.thewoodpecker@outlook.co.nz

Woodend Bowling Club

Bowlers at Woodend Bowling Club have had a busy month of February and are enjoying our

magnificent new green. Club days (Tuesday and Saturday afternoons) see the green used almost to capacity. Unfortunately we have only held one tournament in February, the second one having to be cancelled because of rain.

Club Championship games are almost completed, with winning players eligible to play in the Canterbury Champion of Champions events later in March and early April.

We are very proud of one of our members, Jenny Gernhoefer, who has earnt her place in the NZ Deaf Lawn Bowlers’ team which is travelling to Edinburgh, Scotland, in September to take part in the World Deaf Bowls championships. Her husband, Barry, also a club member, is travelling with the team in support.

Lions Club of Woodend Pegasus

Fundraising for local community projects as a volunteer. Support club activities but having fun and friendship. New members are very welcome.

Dinner meetings on 3rd Thursday each month (own cost). For more details contact Brian on 027 958 8888.

Want 1/8th advertising space?

That’s this size! Email Debs on: debs.thewoodpecker@outlook.co.nz

Ever thought of advertising in The Woodpecker?

Are you a local business wishing to advertise your products or services?

The Woodpecker now delivered to 3,600 households!

If so, please email the Editor to ask about our advertising rates. debs.thewoodpecker@outlook. co.nz

Woodend Tennis Club

It may be autumn, but we are still playing.

Come and join us at:

Wednesday evening social tennisUnder lights

From beginners to competitive players.

Just come along and join in. Teams made up on the night.

It’s good tennis, but also fun.

Most Wednesdays from 7pm (subject to weather)

Great courts, and great lighting. Small fee for non-members

Where?

Our courts are next to Woodend Rugby at Gladstone Park (end of Gladstone Road). Easy access from either Woodend or Pegasus

Contact details

Jim - 021 806 366 or 03 313 9405

Eric - 021 292 7004

Looking forward to seeing you

Support your local club

New Chief Fire Officer and Deputy Chief Fire Officer is appointed

As advised last month, Lew Grant has stood down as

Chief Fire Officer, but remains a member of the Brigade. A new Chief has been appointed and we would like to introduce you to Shayne Robinson. Shayne has been in the Brigade now for over 20 years, rising up through the ranks from Fire Firefighter, Qualified Fire Fighter, Senior Fire Fighter, Station Officer, Senior Station Officer to Deputy. He is also a Class 4 driver and has been on many courses to keep his skills and knowledge up to date. He is well qualified to take over leadership of the Brigade. He is also

employed by Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) and works in Rangiora. With Shayne’s appointment as Chief, that left a vacancy for Deputy Chief Fire Officer, and we are pleased to advise that Mark Handley will take on this role. Mark has been in the Brigade now for over 15 years, and like Shayne, has risen through the ranks in that time. He too is a class 4 driver, essential to drive the tanker. Mark is also a qualified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), previously employed full time with St John, but leaving to take on another job with Vertical Horizonz. He is at present staying on as a Casual EMT for St John.

Having him and two other Members of the Brigade working and volunteering for St John has been a bonus as we get called to Motor Vehicle Accidents

and Medical Calls, including Cardiac Arrests.

To the Community: - you can take heart that our Brigade is continuing to be in good hands with Shayne and Mark and also our dedicated Volunteer Members.

PEGASUS COMM UNITY NEWS

NEW PEGASUS COMMUNITY CENTRE LOCATION SURVEY

The PRGI team is very excited about a NEW Pegasus Community Centre for the Pegasus and North Woodend communities – but the Council needs your say on where to put it.

Website: pegasusresidentsgroup.com

E: prgi@pegasusresidentsgroup.com

Pegasus Residents’ Group Inc

VOLUNTEER EXPO – FRIDAY 24 MARCH 2023

Volunteering in the community is good for you and good for others.

Come along to the Volunteer Expo –Friday 24 March, 5.00pm – 7.00pm at the Pegasus Community Centre.

Groups and organisations who provide a range of community services around Waimakariri will showcase their volunteer opportunities.

Our PRGI Team will also be there so come and learn a little more about what we do.

Our PRGI Committee would love to see Option 2, but we need you, our community, to tell Council what you prefer.

WAYS TO HAVE YOUR SAY:

Information Session: Council are holding an information drop-in session on Wednesday 8 March from 6pm7:30pm at the Pegasus Community Centre (8 Tahuna Street).

Can’t make it to the information session? Visit:

https://letstalk.waimakariri.govt.nz/pegas us-community-centre and take the short online survey OR print the survey form and send it back to the council (free postage!).

We also have forms at the Pegasus Community Centre.

All feedback must be in before 5pm on Wednesday 15 March.

This expo is a great chance to chat about the various volunteer roles and projects in the district that might interest you.

You can gain new skills, share your knowledge and experience, add extra fulfilment to your life, make others feel better, improve the environment, and enjoy a sense of giving back.

COMMUNITY CENTRE

WEEKLY

OPENING TIMES

for books, puzzles and local information : Monday's 2 - 4pm, Wednesday's and Saturday's 10.00am - 12noon.

JUSTICE-OF-THE-PEACE (JP) SESSIONS: Saturday 4th and 18th March, 10.30am–11.30am.

Visit our website to what else is on at the centre each week / month.

Woodend Golden Oldies

Rugby

2023 SEASON

MIXED TEAMS

female players welcome

Red Shorts

After game meal provided

The spirit of Golden Oldies sport is epitomised in the motto “Fun, Friendship and Fraternity”. This international motto is the central theme of every game of Golden Oldies Rugby.

NEW PLAYERS WELCOME

Social and fun for the whole family Rules

age 35 and up

Can be claimed and held. Must not be taken to the ground in a tackle.

Purple Shorts

Gold Shorts

Not to be tackled or touched. May run with the ball for up to 15 metres in total before passing to a team mate wearing club shorts or red shorts.

For more information contact: Tony - 027 476 9611 or Krissy - 021 121 9000

woodendrugby.co.nz

Mayor Dan Gordon Update

At this time of year Council has been hard at work preparing our Draft Annual Plan which will very soon be going out to our residents for consultation.

Since Council adopted the LTP in 2021, the Waimakariri District, like the rest of New Zealand and the world, has faced many challenges. These include the effects of Covid-19, supply chain issues, rising energy costs and inflationary pressures.

Simply, there’s been no economic period quite like this in the last 30 years. Council had projected a rates rise of 4.3% for this year but as inflation has increased it has put significant pressure on operational budgets. To continue to provide the level of service rate payers expect it has forced a higher rate increase than expected.

Council started with a proposed rates increase of 14.4%. After thoroughly reviewing work programmes, looking for savings and at any projects that could be deferred, a significantly lower increase of 5.97% has been reached.

There are three key challenges that we face.

New regulations mean we need to test water supplies more regularly and potentially bring forward-planned upgrades to remain chlorine-free.

We need to make immediate improvements to the stormwater

network following flooding from extreme weather events.

Inflation and capped Waka Kotahi subsidies are disproportionately affecting our roading budget and more funding is needed to make sure local roads remain at a high standard.

In Local Government there continues to be a lot of uncertainty, with four central government driven reform programmes underway – Three Waters, Resource Management Reforms, the Future for Local Government Review and Modernising the Emergency Management Framework. There’s also new legislation aimed to meet the challenges of climate change that will affect how the Council functions, as well as new urban planning rules which we are required to follow.

We’ve been playing an active role in these reforms to ensure the Waimakariri voice is heard at a national level.

Council looks forward to hearing your thoughts on the issues via submissions to the Annual Plan which can be made until 17 April. For more information visit letstalk.waimakariri.govt.nz

I welcome contact from anyone who needs assistance or has an issue that you may want to discuss. Email me at dan.gordon@wmk.govt.nz or phone 021 906 437. I’m here to help.

Are you a Dobbyn? Or more of a Da Vinci?

No matter who you are, your creative project may be eligible for funding.

 waimakariri.govt.nz/creative

The first round of applications for the year will open on Monday 27 February and close on Monday 27 March 2023.

#ArtsForAllKinds

Who Found Mr Woody Woodpecker?

Woody Woodpecker must have been too cleverly hidden last month as we only had one entrant!

Evette Greyling from Woodend, 8 years old. Christel Botes says she loves finding Mr Woody!

Woodend Community Church

A place where we are real family, connecting to God’s word in a unique ‘bring and share’ meal every Sunday.

Families and kids very welcome. Church like nothing you have seen before.

www.woodendcommunity.church Meeting at the Woodend Community Hall, 6A School Road, Woodend Rooms A&B at 4:30pm every Sunday.

Kaiapoi Community Patrol

We are now recruiting volunteers for Camera Operation and Patrolling. Full training given. If interested, please contact Owen 027 442 4436 All volunteers are required to be vetted by police.

Kaiapoi Toy Library

Kaiapoi Toy Library, 9 Cass Street

Kaiapoi, open 11.00am - 1.00pm Saturdays. Access to a range of toys for a small annual fee, no toy rental charges. Check us out www. kaiapoitoylibrary.org

CAB Awareness Week

Each year, CABs throughout Aotearoa New Zealand celebrate Awareness Week. We will mark it in 2023 from Monday, 20 March to Sunday, 26 March.

Citizens Advice Bureau North Canterbury is a community organisation helping people know and understand their rights and obligations, and how to use this information to get the best outcomes. At CAB we provide people with the confidence and support they need to take action. This year’s theme for Awareness Week is about supporting diverse communities and celebrating multiculturalism within the CAB whānau.

CABs offer free advice and information to everyone. We recognise and celebrate cultural diversity among volunteers and clients.

We are committed to making our service as accessible as we can, and this means being able to help clients in a language other than English. We have many multilingual volunteers

WE NEED YOUR HELP! DELIVERER WANTED! CAN YOU HELP?

Volunteer delivery person needed for The Woodpecker in Woodend. Simple easy run with 60 houses to deliver along Main North Road, Woodend.

Please contact Tyree on 027 902 5611

throughout the country who can help clients in their own language, and we are able to connect clients with those volunteers.

We have access to a telephone and video interpreting service that complements our nationwide pool of volunteers who speak various languages. CAB volunteers come from many backgrounds and are diverse in their tikanga / culture, experience and the languages they speak.

We invite you to get in touch with us if you need help with any matter, no matter how big or how small. We’re here to help.

Our opening hours are 9.30am to 3.30pm, Monday to Friday.

You’ll find us at 209 High Street, Rangiora, or you can phone us on 03 313 8822 or 0800 367 222, or send us an email northcanterbury@cab.org.nz

SAYGo - 2023

SAYGo (Steady as you go) Falls Prevention Exercise Class - 1.30pm Thursdays, Pegasus Community Centre, Pegasus Main St (by the Flat White Cafe).

All Welcome. $2 donation please. Simple activities, seated and standing, proven to improve balance, flexibility and strength. A fun social group; join us for a cuppa after class!

Clothing Alterations & Repairs

Do you have a busted zip or pants that are too long? Or maybe a dress or skirt that needs an alteration? Call or text Paula 027 627 7212.

Canterbury Sportfishing Club March Meeting

This will take place at the Fisherman’s Loft in Lincoln Road at 6.30pm on 28 March.

There will be a talk about catching blue fin Tuna and also Canal fishing techniques and will be happy to answer any questions you may have. This will be a great night so please put it in your calendar.

New members welcome.

Contacts:

Shayne Riwaka 027 664 0016

Mark Abrahamson 021 126 0318

Speech Therapy

Children & Adults-reasonable rates 027 358 2106 – 03 423 3808

speechmarknz@gmail.com

Kaiapoi Community Garden Volunteer days

Wednesday 10am – 12pm and the last Saturday of every month 10-12pm, as we are now on our summer hours. Come and join the Community Garden and learn about organic produce, composting skills and find likeminded people to share your love of gardening. For more information follow us on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/KaiapoiCommunity-Garden

Woodend Methodist Church Report

The new complex at Woodend Methodist Church is available for the North Canterbury community to hire various areas for small or large gatherings e.g. classes, tutoring, concerts, interviews, conferences, clubs etc. – any enquiries please contact Kaye at the Rangiora Trinity Office, 176 King Street, Rangiora, 313 3448 or email rangioramethodist@ gmail.com. Rangiora Trinity office hours are Tuesday 10 am to 1 pm, Wednesday 9.45am to 1.45pm, Thursday 10am to 1pm.

The movie on Wednesday 1 March at 1pm will be ‘Friends for Life’. It is a story that will touch your heart. Jim Crawford (Michael Flynn) is lost in the depths of his own isolation and suffering with the recent loss of his beloved wife. Reaching the point of complete hopelessness, he is suddenly guided by an angel (Jimmy Chunga) to the den of a great gray wolf that has been killed, leaving behind four cubs struggling to stay alive. Unprepared for the task, but unwilling to see them suffer, he takes them into his care and keeping. The result is a disaster for his

kitchen, but a relief for his own misery. Entry will be a gold coin donation. Afternoon tea will be provided. The movie for April will be ‘The Great Escape’.

On Saturday 4 March 9am to midday the Parish is holding a Plant and Produce Sale at Trinity Methodist, King Street, Rangiora.

Sunday 5 March at 9am there will be a Church breakfast at Woodend Methodist instead of holding the usual Church Service. Our Minister Darryn Hickling is to be the guest speaker giving us an insight into his career which has taken him on interesting different paths.

The formal opening of the new complex is to be held on Sunday the 12 March at 9am community welcome to this. Come and view the complex for yourself and meet our church family.

Woodend Weekly Church Service is held Sundays at 9am. Everyone welcome. Our minister is Darryn Hickling phone 022 675 7391 Email: minister.rangioramethodist@gmail. com

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This Month with Harry

With the rapid increase in sub-division in Woodend we have a plethora of new streets requiring names. A 1974 decree by the then county council resolved that street names in the impending expansion of Woodend be named after early settlers. Over the past few years I have supplied the council with lists and C.V.S. of our forefathers and will throw a few of these in forthcoming editions. Following a couple of enquiries this will involve Pegasus too.

First up McQuillan Ave. in the new ‘Bangma’ sub-division to the northeast of central city. Named after Alexander McQuillan and family who arrived in Woodend in 1863. From County Armagh in Ireland they came by the boat ‘Queen of the Mersey’. They first leased a block of the Māori Reserve to the southwest of the village. This was carried on by sons Robert and George. Robert also had a farm at Waikuku. The McQuillans were to take an active part in the establishment of horse racing in North Canterbury. A legendary tale used to be told by the late Marge Huria. Lou McQuillan was at one time her neighbour. Lou was a bit ‘rough’. He milked a few cows at Tuahiwi. Marge would go over to Lou’s each Sunday and get a jar of cream. On opening the can one day he discovered a seriously dead mouse in the cream. He picked it up by the tail and ‘stroked’ any cream off it before throwing it away. Suffice to say that was Marge’s last cream morning.

Once again, its summer. And once again it has been damp and cool. You don’t get good weather under a Labour government. I was reminiscing with a mate about summers of old

especially those of the 1950s. Those halcyon days when we rushed about half naked and had competitions to see who could peel the most skin off after a healthy dose of sunburn. No sunscreen in those days – just a pink stuff called Q’Tol that left you smelling like a coconut.

This was the era when the working person was entitled to fortnight’s holiday each year. In most cases it had to be taken at or about Xmas. They flocked to our local beaches and in some cases, generations would set up camp. Tents would be erected; a scrim fence would be ‘encircled’ and a cooking shelter put up. The scrim fence would offer a bit of privacy but in reality, did nothing more than mark your territory. Which didn’t work anyway as each year Bill and Gert and their tribe would be one side, whilst Jim and Dot and their offspring set up the other. Everyone was in and out of each other’s ‘homes’ all day.

In the late 1800s locals went camping at Waikuku Beach. There was no easy access or places to camp at Woodend till the 1920s. Waikuku had the Ashley River nearby which offered good fishing and safe bathing. I have photos of the Archers and Burnets camps set up about 1880. According to family lore the Burnet children spent a lot of time in the sea --- the boys had to swim at least 200 metres down the beach. This rule was relaxed if they put their heavy woollen costumes on. Church and school picnics were held at Waikuku, usually in a paddock owned by George Ivens near the Ashley mouth. A vote of thanks would be accorded to Mr Ivens’ after each do. However this venue ceased after Mr

Ivens committed a messy suicide there taking his loyal dogs with him.

About 1900 sections were drawn up at Waikuku beach and several locals took these up, A bach was built, a long drop was dug, and water was readily available by hammering a length of well pipe down to tap into the artesian. A long drop is an old word for dunny or in modern terms a toilet. The Little brothers erected theirs overlooking the southern domain whilst Thomas Burnet built his closer to the Ashley. By 1950s Waikuku Beach had become a small town with some of the baches occupied by permanent residents. The area south of the lagoon had been developed and a caretaker appointed to look after the place. At one time there were three shops. One to the north by the tennis courts near the river, another where the present shop is and one in the northwest corner of the inner domain. This was run by Miss Natalie Harper. It had been opened by her father. Nat was a legendary shop keeper -- the customer was not always right at her establishment. Tragedy struck Waikuku in the late 1950s when the lady owner of the southern shop was murdered. All over a 3-cent refund on a drink bottle.

TBC - JH

Rangiora Church Street Market

Saturday March 4th 8.30am - 1pm. Cnr Church St and 353 High St. Cafe, BBQ, books, clothing, crafts and car boot sales. Hosted by Anglican Parish of Rangiora. Text Robyn 021 2761574, email market@ anglicanliferangiora.church

Woodend Indoor Bowling Club -2023

It is almost that time again, when the Indoor Bowlers start stretching and limbering up for a new season.

On 6 March starting at 7pm we will again commence our club nights at the Woodend Community Centre and every Monday night through to September.

We would like to welcome returning members and invite others to join us. Those who wish to find out more, about the sport of Indoor bowls may contact our Club President.

Andrew Petrie -ph: 022 592 8389

Do you have a story to tell?

We would love to hear our readers’ stories. If you have a story to tell why not share this with The Woodpecker readers. Young or old, local or from afar.

Personal story

Funny story

Send us a photo too!

KAIAPOI COMMUNITY HUB

CONSULTATION

COME ALONG, HAVE YOUR SAY, AND LEARN ABOUT THIS EXCITING LEGACY PROJECT FOR OUR TOWN!

Proposed communal hall and attractive green space that can be utilised in a variety of ways for the future and wellbeing of Kaiapoi

Saturday March 4th

Drop in between 10:30am12:30pm

Kaiapoi Libraryupstairs in the Kaikanui Room

Tēnā koutou katoa

Tūhaitara Coastal Park Update

World Wetlands Day was celebrated on 2 February to raise global awareness about the importance of wetlands for a healthy planet, how they function as a bond between land and water and significance for Māori. Wetlands enhance water quality through sediment filtration, Nutrient cycling, native biodiversity enhancement, erosion control and hydrological buffering.

Wetlands reduce the severity of flooding events by absorbing stormwater like a sponge and holding onto it for forests and wetland plants to absorb slowly over time. Did you know that before colonisation, Auckland was largely made up of these systems? Concrete from cities and roads creates a surface that water cannot penetrate. This means that instead of this water being absorbed and released slowly, it runs off and accumulates quickly on the surface, resulting in dangerous levels of flooding as we have seen recently.

As a part of Te Kōhaka o Tūhaitara Trust’s 200-year plan, we aim to restore and rehabilitate indigenous coastal ecosystem’s diverse habitats, flora and fauna including coastal wetlands. Since European settlement, 90% of New Zealand wetlands which

once covered 10% of New Zealand’s land mass have been lost.

A young shag was found by our rangers recently. The Department of Conservation advised that as the bird was uninjured but at risk of predation by dogs, we should place the bird back into a nearby tree for the parents to find and care for (see photo). Our summer trainee ranger Rose has returned to Nelson to finish her coursework. Mikaela and Zeta will be returning to study to finish off their degrees in environmental science, and Emily will be starting her master’s in biology.

Compass FM is kindly supporting us with an interview notifying the public about our Open Day coming up on Saturday 4 March. Local announcers will talk about our event on the air between 6pm and 6am in the weeks leading up. Bring your whānau and have a blast with educational stalls, bouncy castles, face painting and much more.

If you would like to get involved, keep an eye out for upcoming planting days in future newsletters and via our Facebook page Friends of Tūhaitara Coastal Park.

Cure Boating Club Rowers at New Zealand Rowing National Championships

Excellent results for Cure Boating Club Rowers at New Zealand Rowing National Championships

Cure Boating Club is immensely proud of all its rowers and has enjoyed great results all this season. Under the guidance of coaches Armin Svoboda and Alex Kennedy who volunteer their time, the club achieved the following results at the recent National Championships Rowing Regatta held over the 14 - 18 February.

Results:

• Gold- Men’s Intermediate Double Sculls

• Gold- Men’s Club

Coxless Pair

• Gold- Women’s

Novice Eight

• Gold- Women’s Intermediate Single Sculls

• Gold- Woman’s Club

Coxless Pair

• Silver- Men’s Club

Double Sculls

• Silver- Men’s Club

Coxless Four

• Bronze- Men’s Club Single Sculls

• Bronze- Woman’s Club Single Sculls

• 4th - Men’s U22 Coxless Pair

• 4th - Men’s Club Coxless Four

• 4th - Men’s Club Eight

• 4th - Woman’s Club Coxless Four

As well as the outstanding efforts on the water that resulted in medals and

A finals, the Club also managed to beat a field of 43 clubs, including several much larger ones, to be ranked the

fourth highest points scoring club of all the clubs at the regatta. Bearing in mind most of the other clubs had far more than 26 rowers this is a fantastic result.

If you are interested in knowing more about rowing and would like to have a go yourself with a view to learning

how to row, the club is offering ‘A Have a Go’ at rowing programme on Saturday 4 March from 11.am to 4.00pm. There will also be a six session learn to row module offered starting on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 March from 8am to 12pm at a cost of

$150 for the programme.

Registration for the Have and Go afternoon and Learn to Row module is via the Cure Boating Club website www.curerowing.co.nz

WHAT YOU DO, CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

VOLUNTEER EXPO

Celebrating Volunteers. Displays and activities by local groups. Find out how you can make a difference.

» Kaiapoi Library • Saturday 18 March 10am -12pm

» Pegasus Community Centre • Friday 24 March 5pm - 7pm

» Rangiora Library • Saturday 25 March 10am - 12pm

Find out more at waimakariri.govt.nz

Have a Go!

Golf croquet is a skilful and strategic game played with two and four people of all ages. For a challenge ,fun , friendship and coaching come along on Thursday or Saturday from

Kaiapoi Croquet Club

1.15pm to Murphy Park Raven Quay over the stop bank opposite Kaiapoi Club. Summer and winter. Groups and Clubs are specially welcome any time. Contact Merelyn 03 312 2648 or Adrienne 021 265 7857

Relay for Life North Canterbury

Relay for Life North Canterbury, Saturday 1 April, Dudley Park, Rangiora.

To register or for more information https://relayforlife.org.nz/ northcanterbury

Be part of the magic, fundraising crucial funds for the Cancer Society.

WOODEND RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB

2023 SEASON

Register on the day

JAB FUN DAY

Girls welcome

SUNDAY MARCH 19TH 1 - 3PM

Gladstone Park

Fun Drills

JAB COACHES

REGISISTER ONLINE

Boot Swap

Come on down and have a go!

JAB TEAMS

Mini Games

Under 6 to U14.5

Woodend - Sefton Community Board

SH1 Safety Improvements

The large turnout by the community at the Waka Kotahi – NZTA community information session in February highlighted the level of interest and als0 some concerns of locals. Board members were also present and have been considering everything raised with them and will be writing to Waka Kotahi. Full information on the planned changes is at https://www.nzta.govt.nz/projects/sh1-north-canterbury-corridor/saltwater-to-cam/. If you have any questions or concerns, please email the project team at safetynorthcanterbury@nzta.govt.nz.

Waikuku Beach Reserve

At our February meeting the Board approved the spatial activity plan for Waikuku Beach Reserve. This was consulted on in 2022. There had been a number of requests from groups who were interested in setting up activities e.g. beach volleyball, pump track, which raised questions about how to ensure the best use of the reserve for the community. The plan has defined several zones which will help with decisions about the allocation of space in the reserve and give clarity to residents.

Have Your Say

Site for the new Pegasus Community Centre – closes 15 March

Which location do you prefer for a future Pegasus Community Centre?

Option 1: Waitaki Reserve (1 Te Kohanga Drive)

Option 2: Templeton Development (66 Pegasus Main Street)

There will be a drop-in session at Pegasus Community Centre (along from Flat White Café on Main Street) on Wednesday 8 March from 6pm-7:30pm.

https://letstalk.waimakariri.govt.nz/pegasus -community-centre.

Draft Annual Plan

Advance notice only, as this consultation opens on 17 March. Keep an eye out for more information. https://letstalk.waimakariri.govt.nz/ .

Our next meeting – all are welcome

Monday 13 March starting at 5.30pm at the Woodend Community Centre. If you want to see what will be discussed check out the Board Facebook page or the agenda at waimakariri.govt.nz/your-council/meetings/minutes-and-agendas around the Thursday of the previous week.

Contact us - more information about the Board, and contact details for members is on our Facebook page @WoodendSeftonCommunityBoard.

COMMUNITY CONTACTS

CANCER SOCIETY NORTH CANTERBURY

143 Percival Street, Rangiora 0800 226 695

northcanty@cancercwc.org.nz

FB: https://www.facebook.com/ CancerSocietyNC

CANTERBURY SPORTFISHING CLUB

New Members Welcome

Shayne Riwaka 027 664 0016

COLDSTREAM TENNIS CLUB RANGIORA

Paul 028 434 9928

GLADSTONE PARK ADVISORY GROUP

Chairperson, Mark Paterson 312 7439

Kaiapoi & Pegasus Croquet

Club Captain: Adrienne Lamb 921 2895

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE

Rachel Emmitt

021 203 6085

Available outside work hours

KAIAPOI TOY LIBRARY

9 Cass Street, Kaiapoi 10.30-12.30 Saturdays

www.kaiapoitoylibrary.org

LIONS CLUB OF WOODEND - PEGASUS

President John Canton 310 8157

Secretary Anne Attenborough 313 6124

Youth Centre Brian Attenborough 313 6124

LOLLIPOPS PRESCHOOL PEGASUS 943 4935

cm.pegasus@ledu.co.nz

lollipopseducare.co.nz/location/pegasus

MENZSHED PEGASUS & WOODEND

COMMUNITY TRUST

Clive Jones 027 245 5770

John Burns 021 347 805

menzshedpegasuswoodend@gmail.com

MUSIC AND PLAY

Meaghan 027 392 6409

NORTH CANTERBURY WOODCRAFT CLUB

Merv Laws 021 237 7105

Noel Graham, President 027 240 8112

PEGASUS BROWNIES

pegasusbrownies@gmail.com

PEGASUS COMMUNITY CENTRE

Bookings and enquiries contact:

Waimakiriri District Council

Freephone: 0800 965 468

www.waimakariri.govt.nz

PEGASUS COMMUNITY CENTRE TEAM

Email: pcc@pegasusresidentsgroup.com

PEGASUS MONDAY MORNING WALKING GROUP

Christine Johnston 021 179 7330

PEGASUS RESIDENTS GROUP INC

prgi@pegasusresidentsgroup.com

www.pegasusresidentsgroup.com

FB: https://www.facebook.com/ PegasusResidentsGroupInc

PEGASUS WOODEND WOMEN’S INSTITUTE

Helen Power 313 5749

Pam Cleeve 03 3138120 / 021 170 9895

RADIO SAILING CLUB

Ian McGregor 027 595 9000

Paul Johnson 021 295 2587

RANGIORA BRIDGE CLUB www.rangiorabridgeclub.co.nz

rangiorabridge@xtra.co.nz 03 313 7941

RANGIORA TOY LIBRARY

rangioratoylibrary@gmail.com

ST BARNABAS ANGLICAN CHURCH

Men’s Group: Andrew 021 073 5730

Women’s Group: Amy 021 234 4253

Hall Hire: Elizabeth 313 4612

THE ASHLEY LODGE

Norme Shore - Secretary ashley.lodge@ymail.com

http://www.ashley28.net.nz

TIMEBANK WAIMAKARIRI

Email: tbwaimakariri@gmail.com 021 0265 4071

Website: waimakariri.timebanks.org

Facebook: facebook.com/ timebankwaimakariri

TUAHIWI COMMUNITY PRE-SCHOOL 313 2141

tuahiwipreschool@xtra.co.nz

https://www.facebook.com/tuahiwi. preschool

www.tuahiwicommunitypreschool

WAIKUKU BEACH SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB

Danelle Asher wbslsc@wbslsc.com

WAIORA LINKS COMMUNITY TRUST

Woodend, Pegasus, Waikuku

waioralinks@gmail.com

COMMUNITY CONTACTS

FB: https://www.facebook.com/ Waioralinks

WOODEND BADMINTON CLUB

Paul Henderson 0274 925 936

WOODEND BOWLING CLUB

President Gill Beale 310 6612

Secretary Sheryl Atkins 021 225 5778

WOODEND BOYS’ CLUB

John Harris 313 7832

WOODEND COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

INC

President Mark Paterson

Secretary Kris Stacey kris@stacey.kiwi.nz

WOODEND COMMUNITY GARDEN

Co-ordinator: Andy Childs 027 512 2681 andyandsuechilds@xtra.co.nz

WOODEND FLOWER SHOW

President Shirley Wheeler 03 327 3414

Secretary Helen Power 313 5749

Treasurer Pam Cleeve 313 8120

WOODEND FRIENDSHIP CLUB

President John Fortster 327 3681

Secretary Jo Reid 03 310 6164

WOODEND GARDEN CLUB

President Helen Power 03 313 5749

Secretary Chris Sutherland 0274 555 708

Treasurer Glenis Everts 03 930 8240

WOODEND GOLDEN OLDIES RUGBY & NETBALL

President Tony Hurley 312 7311

WOODEND GYM CLUB

Simone Templeton 027 514 8363

WOODEND INDOOR BOWLING CLUB

Club President Andrew Petrie 022 592 8389

Club Captain Rex Macauley 313 3627 or 021 126 3344

WOODEND JUNIOR CRICKET

Amy Hallmark woodend.cricket@gmail. com

WOODEND METHODIST CHURCH

Minister: Darryn Hickling 022 675 7391

minister.rangioramethodist@gmail.com

WOODEND NETBALL CLUB

President Caitlin Loose 027 787 5365

Secretary Vicki Attrill 021 244 1881

Woodendnetballclub@gmail.com

WOODEND PLAY CENTRE

027 353 2131

woodend@playcentre.org.nz

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ woodendplaycenter

WOODEND PRESCHOOL / NURSERY

Jen Hall 312 7654

office@woodendpreschool.co.nz

www.woodendpreschool.co.nz

WOODEND RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB

Club Secretary - Darren Watts secretary@ woodendrugby.co.nz

Treasurer - Scott Murray-treasurer@ woodendrugby.co.nz

WOODEND SEFTON COMMUNITY BOARD

Chairperson Shona Powell, 021 0231 6152 shona.powell@wmk.govt.nz

Deputy Chair Mark Paterson, 027 534 9112 mark.paterson@wmk.govt.nz

WOODEND SENIOR CRICKET CLUB

Robert Davey 021 762 963

WOODEND TENNIS CLUB

Jim Bucknell 313 9405

WOODEND VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE

CFO Shayne Robinson, 021 286 6574 www.fireandemergency.nz

PLUNKET NORTH CANTERBURY

Krystel Arboleda - Plunket Nurse

Plunketline 0800 933 922 Admin is 0800 184 803

NEXT ISSUE APRIL 2023

Deadline for advertisements and community articles - 25

March 2023

The Woodpecker Digital Issue

Available on: www.issuu.com/ thewoodpecker4

Email: debs.thewoodpecker@ outlook.co.nz

Call: 021 863 877

Post: Debs Taylor-Hayhurst, Editor PO Box 78333, Pegasus 7648

MARCH 2023 WAIMAKARIRI EVENTS

MARKETS

KAIAPOI FARMERS MARKET

Morgan Williams Reserve, Charles St, Kaiapoi. Every Saturday, 10am–12pm.

OHOKA FARMERS MARKET Ohoka Domain, Mill Road, Ohoka. Every Friday, 9am-12pm. Closed June and July.

OXFORD FARMERS MARKET Main St, Oxford. Every Sunday, 9am–12pm.

OXFORD CRAFT MARKET

Oxford Town Hall, Oxford. First Sunday of each month, 10am-2pm.

RANGIORA CHURCH STREET MARKET

St John’s Anglican Church Grounds & Hall, Cnr of Church and High Streets, Rangiora. First Saturday of each month, 9.30am-1pm.

ART

KEEP IN TOUCH

events@visitwaimakariri.co.nz visitwaimakariri.co.nz/events

Seiko-Kai Team

Kaiapoi based National Seiko-Kai Karate Instructor Kev Merriman has just returned from grading to 7th Dan.

support from others to obtain such a high level of recognition. In fact, Kev has been preparing for the grading for seven years.

7th Dan (or Nanadan) is a high-level rank that few achieve, especially when the testing was conducted in the spiritual home of karate, Japan.

Dan grades is a formal ranking system used in many oriental martial art systems to indicate a level of proficiency, skill, technical ability and understanding of the art. Dan is usually translated as ‘Degree’ and as one moves through each rank, so does understanding and application of the art and what has been taught.

It takes years of dedication, commitment, loyalty, sacrifice and

Speaking about the achievement Kev says. “It has been over forty years in the making and an incredible journey that would not have been possible to achieve without the support and understanding of my family, friends and members of my Dojo in Kaiapoi. I would like to thank, those who have helped me work on the deeper understandings of our style and execution of techniques, such as Colin Punyer Shihan (Australia), and (from Japan) Shihan’s Hashimoto, Takahashi, Takano and Murata. I have forged close friendships with these passionate

people and am pleased to announce that we have a Japanese contingent coming to New Zealand later in the

year to teach Kiwi Karate Students. In addition, my sincere gratitude to Dan Visker Sensei and Ruby Wilson for giving up their free time after classes and at weekends to help me in my personal training.

Kev was also elevated from Sensei to the new title of Shihan which translates to ‘master instructor’. Shihan have the ability to command the material and have a deeper understanding of the art.

“I have to thank Suzuki Soke (Grandmaster) for believing in me, showing patience and imparting wisdom and spirituality in my training. Soke (86yrs old) is one of the last, true Karate Masters teaching traditional karate and I am so honoured, proud and obviously very happy to be promoted by him to 7th Dan and be awarded the title of Shihan. My ambition is always to share and promote Karate with my students. However, as I have learned over the years, the true essence of Seiko-Kai as a ‘style’ is my biggest ambition, so I will continue to seek guidance from my peers in this regard”.

“To my wife who has been a ‘karatewidow’ I have no words to express how grateful I am of her continued support and belief in what I do”.

Top left image: Left to right: Mark Stacey Shihan, Fujio Takano Shihan, Kaz Hashimoto Shihan, Kev Merriman Shihan, Hiromi Takagi Sensei, Ryuichi Takahashi Shihan

Bottom Left Image: Soke: Top leftTokuji Nakagawa President of Nippon Karate-do Seiko-Kai, Top right- Kev Merriman Shihan, Below Centre- Seiko Suzuki Soke (Grandmaster)

Sports Write Up: Kev Merriman Japan

7th Dan Grading

Can you find Mr Woody Woodpecker!

Mr Woody Woodpecker is hidden amongst one of The Woodpecker pages.

For fun, search for him and if you find him, please EMAIL the Editor on debs.thewoodpecker@outlook. co.nz with a high resolution photo of you pointing to the very page where Mr Woody Woodpecker is, along with your name, age and location and your photo will go in next month’s Woodpecker.

Want 1/8th advertising space?

That’s this size! Email Debs on: debs.thewoodpecker@outlook.co.nz

Alison Highman Ear Nurse RN

Vera Setz Audiologist MNZAS

WAIORA LINKS COMMUNITY TRUST UPDATE

WOODEND/RAVENSWOOD,

PEAGASUS & WAIKUKU COMMUNITY CUPPA

Ronel’s Community Cuppa has been enjoyed by Pegasus residents for over 5 years with a great range of guest speakers and many friendships and connections made. We’ve decided its time to share that free, fun experience with a wider audience, so starting in March the Community Cuppa will be open to all residents of the following areas: Woodend, Ravenswood, Pegasus, Waikuku, Woodend Beach, Waikuku Beach and all areas in between!

The Community Cuppa starts at 10am on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at the Pegasus Community Centre, so come along, grab some of Ronel’s yummy cake and a cuppa, pull up a chair and have a chat. You are very welcome!

RONEL’S COMMUNITY CUPPA FEBRUARY:

Kelly from Census NZ left us all with a fresh understanding of why we have a Census and why it is important that we all fill it out accurately. For more info visit the website:

www.census.govt.nz

RONEL’S COMMUNITY CUPPA

Free Morning Tea for Residents of Pegasus, Woodend/Ravenswood and Waikuku

10.00am, Wednesday 8th March 2023

Pegasus Community Centre, 8 Tahuna St, near Flat White Café

Guest Speakers – Free Morning Tea – Meet new people!

Waiora Links Community Trust

Email: waioralinks@gmail.com

FB: Waiora Links Community Trust

Summer harvest and blockages!

In the last couple of weeks at PAWS Vets we have had to open up four dogs with intestinal obstruction.

Along with the usual items of clothing, recently I discovered Nerf have brought back “Hyper rounds”:- just the right size to block a dogs intestine! We also recently removed a particularly loved but fragmented rubber dog toy.

This time of year is also of raised risk from fruit and vegetable waste ingestion. I love sweet corn and stone fruit, however, fruit stones and chewed or sliced corn cobs are in particular our pet’s nemesis. Difficult to see on Xray, we really have to use all our skills to diagnose these.

So please take care with toys and, if you have an orchard with fallen fruit or a compost heap, please ensure our family pets do not eat fallen fruit or garden waste.

CONTACTS:

PHONE: 03 312 2669

EMAIL: pawsvets@gmail.com

ADDRESS: 71 Main North Road, Woodend (between vegetable and coffee shops)

HOURS: 8.30am - 5.30pm Monday to Friday 8.30am - 6.30pm Wednesdays