Wairarapa Midweek Wed 19th April

The cats’ whiskers

The Jazz Dance and Drama Centre gives a show-stopping rendition of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats – one of editor Erin Kavanagh-Hall’s favourite musicals. Full story P4.

Opinion

Kids are all right

There’s more to Kiwi teenagers than ram raids and social media addiction. Erin Kavanagh-Hall discusses the importance of providing balanced youth news coverage. Editorial P12.

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Community

Stitching goodness

Stitch4Kids, founded by Martinborough local Annie Woodhams, has donated over 200 children’s dresses to TimorLester – made possible with generous gifts from the Wairarapa sewing community. Full story P5.

Whipping down the road

The Laughing Owl Fudge Company has changed hands – but will remain in Greytown, heading just down the road to Wakelin House. Full story P8.

History

Wartime memorabilia

The “Masterton Museum – A Cabinet of Curiosities” exhibition at Aratoi has a range of historical artefacts on display – including a collection of insignia from the Royal Tank Corps. Full story P36.

A visible place in the world

Working as a census collector allowed Emma Pike the opportunity to provide “an accurate picture” of her hometown – and “be seen” in her community.

The Masterton resident was one of a team recruited by Stats NZ as part of its “static collector” initiative –providing support with the 2023 census from community spaces throughout the region.

The static collector initiative, piloted in Wairarapa and rolled throughout the Wellington region, targeted people who experience mobility challenges or barriers to finding employment. These included disabled people, those who are pregnant or with young children, or without access to transport.

Static collectors were recruited in partnership with Work and Income, and worked out of libraries, education centres, or iSites. There, as well as distributing and collecting census forms, they were able to assist with any questions or concerns people had about “New Zealand’s biggest survey”.

Pike, a wheelchair user, divided her time as a collector between Masterton District Library and the student support centre at UCOL Te Pūkenga Wairarapa – and held a stall at the recent Ageing With Attitude expo, organised by Wairarapa Age Concern.

Wairarapa census area manager Graham Streatfield said the initiative created an

would be someone fit and healthy, who can carry large quantities of paper over long distances. Which can exclude a lot of people,” he said.

“The static collector initiative has allowed people who might otherwise struggle to find work to be part of something significant for the country.”

Pike said working as a static collector was “a great opportunity” – which allowed her to visibly participate in the community.

“I feel like I was able to be seen. And disabled people don’t always get that chance,” Pike said.

“It’s important for disabled people to be visible out and about

and that we have a place in the world. It shows we’re able to work and that we can fit into a workplace.

“I feel this could open a lot of doors.”

In Wairarapa, static collectors are based at all five public libraries, the Citizens Advice Bureau, Masterton iSite, REAP Wairarapa and UCOL.

Streatfield said the static collector initiative was particularly well received by library users – as, for many Wairarapa locals, their library is often their “first port of call”.

“A lot of people would come into the Masterton Library with questions,” Pike said.

“For example, they’d

interruptions meant they hadn’t got their packs in the mail, or they weren’t sure how to access [the survey] online. Some people hadn’t done the census before, so they weren’t sure how to go about it.

“They’d ask the librarians – they could refer them to us, and we’d be able to sort them out.”

As a person with a disability, it was important to Pike to help as many people as possible “be counted” –as accurate data means the government can improve support services for diverse communities.

“If the government has the correct information, it can allocate more accurate funding to

National ÿ nalists

The Times-Age and Wairarapa Midweek have been named as ÿ nalists in the 2023 Voyager Media Awards. Midweek was shortlisted for the Community Newspaper of the Year category, while the Times-Age is in the running for Best Headline or Hook.

Midweek editor Erin Kavanagh-Hall was thrilled with the result.

“At Midweek, we aim to be a champion for the Wairarapa community. A lot of heart and hard work goes into producing a paper our readers can be proud of.

“Based on that information, the government can provide more accessible and affordable options for disabled people. For example, more accessible housing. At the moment, you can’t make renovations to rental properties, like accessible bathroom facilities or permanent ramps. A lot of new housing developments have two storeys, making them inaccessible to a lot of people.

“For me, it was rewarding to help give an accurate picture of what my community looks like.”

• Census collectors, including static collectors, will be

“A newspaper is a team e° ort – and I am grateful for our talented team of writers, editors and designers. To be recognised on the national stage is a testament to their tremendous e° ort and dedication.”

Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in Auckland on May 27.

An a-peel-ing auction

The Featherston Foodbank is soon to receive a cash donation: Courtesy of a uniquely-shaped starchy vegetable.

Last week, organisers from the Wairarapa Fruit and Vegetable Co-Op discovered a large, heart-shaped potato while assembling food parcels for its members. They promptly listed the tuber on TradeMe, pledging the sale proceeds to the food bank. As at Monday afternoon, the potato had attracted 20 bids, with the highest bid at $56. There were several spud-related puns in the comments, including “it will deÿ nitely make you chipper”. The auction closed yesterday evening.

Static census collector Emma Pike, at work at Masterton District Library.

PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Erin Kavanagh-Hall erin.kavanagh-hall@age.co.nz

Midweek editor Erin KavanaghHall.

PHOTO/ JULIA MAHONY

Wairarapa kids make Cats cool

Erin Kavanagh-Hall erin.kavanagh-hall@age.co.nz

Cats is one of my absolute favourite musicals – much to the consternation of my fellow theatre-loving friends.

“There’s no plot!” they protest. “There’s singing and dancing cats!” I reply. “What more could you want?!”

So, naturally, I was delighted to receive an invitation to the Jazz Dance and Drama Centre’s [JDDC] production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s classic, held at Wairarapa College last weekend. This was my first time at a JDDC show, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. But just like my 10-year-old self after seeing Cats at the St James Theatre, I left the auditorium with a face sore from smiling, and a head full of all the signature tunes.

Cats is a huge undertaking for any theatre company, especially a young cast. The songs are big and virtuosic, the choreography has all kinds of acrobatics and body contortions, and there’s the added challenge of portraying believable characters the audience can root for – while still looking and behaving like cats. And the JDDC crew ticked every box.

The music is very much ensemble piece, with all cast members visible for most of the run-time.

The JDDC cast worked together seamlessly –nailing every harmony, key change and high note, all while using every inch of the stage. The choreography, an artful

combination of jazz, ballet and cat-like mannerisms [stretching, twitching, slinking and scratching], was tightly and professionally executed.

The musical is also known for show-stopping costuming – and the ensemble all looked the part in their teased wigs, furry accessories, and Bowie-esque makeup. For lesser performers, it would be easy to disappear under all those embellishments. But the young actors’ personalities shone through – their outfits complementing their performance rather than swallowing it.

The lead Jellicles were delightful – their backstories, lovable quirks and typical cat psychology brought to life by some talented youngsters. One of my personal favourites was Baxter Ferguson as the Rum Tum Tugger: The attention-seeking, highly disagreeable tom, whom the girls find impossible to resist. Baxter brought an almost Elvis-like swagger to the role – effortlessly charismatic, slyly pompous, and yet so very charming.

No less enchanting was Jack Brown as Skimbleshanks, the undisputed boss of the Glasgow Night Mail train. Jack played Skimble as a posh, impeccably poised and slightly affected pussycat – but one who takes his role seriously, and whom I would trust implicitly with all trainrelated business.

Speaking of serious roles – a crowd-favourite was Leo McKenzie as Gus, an elderly tom regaling the

kittens with tales of his illustrious acting career. We’ve all met someone like Gus – an older person insisting “they don’t make ‘em like that anymore” – and Leo did a brilliant job, backing up his wheezy boastings with spunk and warmth.

Another kitty fallen on hard times is leading lady Grizabella – a once glamorous showgirl, now shunned by her Jellicle peers. Lily Tulloch gave an elegantly understated performance, emoting an authentic sense of longing and isolation, without going over the top. This emotion was carried in her performance of Memory, with sustained notes and a beautiful natural break in her voice.

Fynn Brown and Leah Bunny took the energy up a notch as Mungojerry and Rumpleteezer, the tabby twins delighting in causing mayhem for their human

household. Fynn and Leah gave arguably the most joyous performance of the night – never losing the gleam in their eye, and barely breaking a sweat tumble-turning all over the stage, while singing in near-perfect Cockney accents.

A shout-out must go to the supporting cast, some of whom had spectacular voices and stage presence. Stand-outs were Summer Anderson and Beth BramwellCooke [Bombulurina and Demeter] for their luscious jazz vocals on Macavity, Rebekah Brown [Jellylorum – Gus’ caregiver] for her dulcet tones on Gus: The Theatre Cat, and Cody LaingBayley as Jellicle leader Munkustrap – who, once again, pulls focus in every scene.

Another shout-out goes to the set designers, who created a stunning junkyard backdrop –littered with graffitied cars, discarded tyres, and rusty bicycle frames, and fairy lights to add just a small

touch of whimsy. The rubbish tip setting came in handy later on – with the ensemble using various castaways – bin lids, umbrellas, wheelbarrows, and car doors – to create a moving train for Skimbleshanks to patrol.

Another great night at the theatre in Wairarapa – one JDDC can feel justly proud of. A musical demands stamina, working memory, endless vocal exercises, and hours of rehearsals, and these young people are balancing all that with school commitments. It’s far from easy – but the kids handled it like pros, and deserve all the kudos. Thank you, JDDC, for an excellent rendition of my favourite musical [who needs a plot?!]. Well done, kittens!

The feline ensemble set the scene.

Gus the Theatre Cat [Leo McKenzie] keeps his audience entertained with tales of his stage exploits.

Jack Brown as Skimbleshanks the Railway Cat -- holding court on the Night Mail train.

PHOTOS/JUDY WAGG

Waves of fabric sewn into crates of clothes

Erin Kavanagh-Hall erin.kavanagh-hall@age.co.nz

Close to 300 Timorese children will – some for the first time – receive the gift of brand-new clothing: Thanks to some clever local crafters and the “astounding” generosity of the wider Wairarapa community.

In December, Martinborough local Annie Woodhams founded charitable sewing collective Stitch 4 Kids, aiming to make “at least 200” dresses for girls in Timor-Leste [East Timor], completed by the end of March.

Stich4Kids made a public appeal in January for fabric donations – and was inundated with support from the sewing community, who contributed both their unused supplies and crafting skills.

Eventually, the group exceeded its original target – presenting 232 dresses and 57 pairs of children’s shorts to the Timorese Embassy in Wellington on April 4.

The clothing will be delivered to Timor-Leste

– a country of 1.4 million citizens, half of whom live below the poverty line –later this month.

Woodhams came up with the idea for Stitch4Kids last year, while recovering from a stem cell transplant to treat aggressive bone marrow cancer.

Her daughter-in-law

Jane Keig, former staff at the Ministry of Defence, suggested making clothes for children in Timor-Leste, where she had previously travelled with the New Zealand Defence Force.

She helped Woodhams secure a meeting with Timorese ambassador Her Excellency Felicidade de Sousa Guterres, who was supportive of the project.

A few short months later, Woodhams said she was “astounded” by the support Stitch4Kids received in Wairarapa – as were Guterres and First Embassy Secretary Ligia Pinto when she handed over the crates of dresses and shorts.

“When Jane and I said we had 232 dresses for them, their mouths just fell open. I don’t think they were expecting that,” she said.

“I’ve been blown away by the generosity people have shown – and all the love and care and attention they put into each piece of clothing. It’s amazing to think an idea I had while lying in a hospital bed has inspired such an outpouring of care.

“I’m very proud of the sewers of Wairarapa – we’ve come together to create something beautiful.”

Woodhams said she was particularly thrilled with the response to Stitch4Kids’ fabric appeal – with a flood of donations arriving from Carterton sewers, including a “huge bag of beautiful cottons” from the Dalefield Women’s Institute.

“Carterton came up trumps in terms of donations!

“We received so much gorgeous fabric. We were given buttons, cotton thread, bias binding – the works. Jane and I spent a lot of time driving back and forth to pick it all up.

“Even if people had only a couple of pieces to spare, they wanted to be part of the cause.”

The Stitch4Kids sewing

An extra COVID-19

crew also significantly expanded – starting with five sewers and growing to “about 20” from Wairarapa and beyond.

“We’ve now got seven women from Wellington making dresses – they’d heard about us when they were here on holiday.

“A local woman made about 30 dresses, and wants to keep going because she enjoys it.”

Woodhams said Guterres plans to deliver some of the clothing to a Catholic women’s organisation in Dili [the capital city], where it will be distributed among local orphanages. The remainder will be delivered to children in remote rural areas.

Stitch4Kids plans to continue supporting Timor-Leste, making deliveries to the embassy “every six months”.

“In Timor-Leste, if you can’t feed and clothe your children, you take them down to the orphanage. And they stay there until you can afford to take them back,” Woodhams said.

“For some kids, these will be the first new clothes they’ve ever had.”

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Woodhams plans to organise monthly crafting sessions for exisiting Stitch4Kids members, and welcomes more local sewers to join.

• For more information, contact Annie Woodhams at stitch4kidsnz@gmail. com, or go to www. stitch4kids.nz

Stitch 4 Kids founder Annie Woodhams [right] presents Timor-Leste ambassador Felicidade de Sousa Guterres with a donation of children’s clothes, handmade by Wairarapa sewers.

PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Reegan gets a sniff at nationals

I started doing it myself,” Reegan said.

The Year 11 Kuranui College student placed first in a JDH regional heat in New Plymouth last month, qualifying him for the national competition in October.

Reegan was one of the young stars of the TVNZ reality show Junior Dog Handlers. Dressed in a fetching purple jacket, he was filmed over several episodes last year but missed out on a place at the 2022 nationals.

So, to win a regional heat early in 2023 was a huge improvement for him and his dog on the day – three-year-old American Staffordshire terrier, Sadie.

“It was completely unexpected, as I went from coming last in previous JDH heats to first,” Reegan said.

Showing and handling dogs is very visual, so the 15-year-old will ensure he looks sharp in the Auckland ring, competing against handlers aged 12-18 from around New Zealand.

He enjoys “dressing fancy” at shows and wears a suit jacket, tie

and good shoes. Most JDH competitors are girls – just two boys competed during the 2022 heats. A handler’s turnout is worth five points from a possible 100, which could be the difference between first and second place.

“I’ll probably buy

a new outfit for the nationals but am going to wait until closer to October, as I’m still growing,” Reegan said.

He also travels to dog breed showing events with his stepmother, Amanda Lucas, and their American Staffordshire terriers [nicknamed

AmStaffs]. He won “a few” best puppy prizes, which led to the standalone junior handling competitions.

“My stepmother Amanda has shown dogs from a young age, and my dad, my brother and I would watch. I was about 10 years old when

He chose showing dogs over agility and obedience competitions because: “I grew up with showing – which is all about how the dog looks, genetics, that sort of thing.

“Tips I’ve been given for JDH are to look at the judges occasionally, use the entire ring and ‘stack’ your dog without wasting too much time,” he said.

“Stacking” is when the dog is displayed in a positive posture, showing off their best features, such as a well-muscled neck or shoulders, with square legs and a raised tail.

Along with Sadie, Reegan’s regular show dog is AmStaff Riley, also three years old, one of 11 dogs at the family’s rural Carterton home.

In JDH competitions, teenagers and dogs move around the ring as a group for the first round. The second round requires each pair to complete moves requested by the judges.

The third round is the most nerve-wracking, Reegan said, as handlers are given a “swap dog”,

to further show their skills with an animal they have never met.

“We get about two minutes with the swap dog’s owner, who tells you how they stack, how they run, and so on, and you have to try and remember. I once got a little Dachshund and was quite afraid I was going to step on him.”

At the New Plymouth heat last month, Reegan’s swap dog was a standard poodle named Onyx. “He was amazing and I’d love to work with him again.”

The national winner goes on to represent New Zealand at the famous Crufts dog show in the UK, but they don’t take their own dogs – they must compete with dogs given to them at Crufts, a true test of handling skills.

At home, Reegan is a keen student glider and would like a career in an aviation-related field. He has stayed busy over the April school holidays working as an assistant to a tradesman friend.

“Dog handling is a great thing to do if you love animals,” he said.

Julia Mahony julia.mahony@age.co.nz

AmStaff Sadie is a regular partner for Reegan at handler competitions.

PHOTO/SUPPLIED

LIMITED TIME ONLY

Whipping down the road

Julia Mahony julia.mahony@age.co.nz

Greytown’s Laughing Owl

Fudge has been sold –with the wooden spoon passed a few hundred metres along the road.

Kylie Alexander, who started the handmade fudge business from her Greytown kitchen almost 10 years ago after moving home from Scotland, has sold to Alison Meadows, owner of Choice Fruit Products.

Meadows operates a commercial kitchen in historic Wakelin House on Greytown’s Main St, where she cooks up her range of chutneys, pickles, sauces and infused oils and seasonings.

Originally from rural Devon in England, Meadows emigrated to New Zealand with her husband and children to be near family almost 11 years ago. They arrived in Wairarapa in 2016, and Meadows bought Choice Fruit Products just over four years later.

In a plentiful artisan food market, Meadows has become a regular in the world of food shows, trade fairs and corporate gifts. She has more than 100 stockists New Zealand-wide and sells her

products and gift hampers online, with a new website launching soon.

Meadows has a finance and retail background and worked for a bullion company in the UK.

“We dealt in gold and silver bars and coins –which would turn up from overseas in the regular post, in small brown unmarked boxes,” she said.

“No one knew we existed, as we didn’t have our company name above the door. The odd customer who was allowed to collect their order often turned up with over 30,000 British pounds in cash, which would take two of us nearly an hour to count.”

Meadows spent eight years running her own bridalwear shop and baking wedding and special occasion cakes.

Now resident in rural Carterton, she tries to grow as many of her ingredients as possible, including lemons and feijoas, and sources others locally. She is learning what works for her target market.

“I try to avoid too many brown products,” she said. “Colour is good –my capsicum and apricot chutney is probably my best seller, with the new

apple, pear and plum catching up fast.

“My feijoa BBQ sauce is unique – you won’t find it anywhere else. The lemon pepper seasoning is made with our own real lemon zest, unlike the supermarket ones which are lemon essence and yellow food colouring.

“But when it comes to fudge, brown is good, with no artificial colours or preservatives.”

Meadows works alone in her Greytown commercial kitchen and travels around the country to markets and food shows, sometimes with help from her teenage children.

She won’t be changing the Laughing Owl Fudge recipe but plans to take it “nationwide” with her other products and introduce some additional packaging options.

“I love to source locally and New Zealandwide. Unfortunately, Kylie had to source her

biodegradable fudge bags with flat bottoms from France because there was nothing available in New Zealand.”

Alexander, a qualified chef who used her Greytown grandmother’s recipe for her original Laughing Owl Russian fudge, said she was “chuffed” the business was staying local.

“I must have made five or six thousand batches of fudge in almost 10 years. You could say I’m a bit lop-sided from all the stirring,” she laughed.

Over the years, Alexander has added local accents to her fudge, including chocolate, coffee, honey, lemon liqueur and lavender.

“I am very happy to have my home kitchen and house back, as there was fudge all over the place. I’ve been cooking since I was 17 and would now like to return to working as a teacher aide.”

Alison Meadows, left, is the new owner of Laughing Owl Fudge, founded by Kylie Alexander, right.

PHOTO/SUPPLIED

LUSH LAWN

GIVE YOUR LAWN SOME TLC

I’m sure we all wish for a soft, spongy, lush green lawn –but summer can take it’s toll on our grass and leave us with the absolute opposite! Autumn is here, and this is the best time to sow a brand new lawn or give an existing lawn some TLC to get it into top shape. Sowing in autumn gives your lawn a chance to harden o and establish before winter, the soil is still warm, and the weeds haven’t taken hold (like they can do in spring). Here’s a few points to keep in mind when sowing a new lawn, or replenishing an existing one:

OVER˜SEEDING

There’s a trick called ‘Overseeding’ that can renovate a worn out lawn without replacing it completely. Autumn is an ideal time. Before sowing prepare the ground so the seed can make good contact with the soil. Mow the lawn short and remove debris and weeds. Use a hard steel rake to remove thatch and create shallow grooves in the soil. Sprinkle over some Tui Lawn Preparation Mix, then scatter the seed and gently water in.

FEEDING

Take care when feeding new lawns and in the beginning it’s recommended you only use something gentle, such as a soil conditioner or seaweed tonic. This helps to encourage a strong root system. Strong roots hold water better and will help your lawn thrive. For established lawn you should fertilise twice a year with a product such as Kings Lawn Fertiliser – once in the autumn months to protect it in the winter and once in spring to help boost the growth and carry you through the summer months.

CHOOSING THE SEED:

• Before you come and see us to buy your lawn seed there’s a few notes you should make. How big is the area? What kind of seed is going to suit your lifestyle?

• Most lawn seed brands contain a mix of grass types. Some grow slowly which will require less mowing. Some are tougher for high tra˛ c areas, some for hot, some for shady.

SOWING THE SEED:

• Sow on a ÿ ne day, preferably when rain showers are forecast. Wear gloves and wash hands after use.

PREPARE THE GROUND:

• Doing this before sowing the seed can make the world of di˜ erence. Spray the existing lawn with Grosafe Knockdown (this is the same as Roundup but we have it at a far better price). It takes up to two weeks for the old grass and weeds to die completely. If you can, waiting another two weeks to allow any weed seeds to germinate and then spraying again will give you a nice clean slate.

• You then need to dig or cultivate the ground to about 15cm. If you’re doing a large area then a rotary hoe, and a roller, will make the job much easier.

• Apply a 25-30mm layer of Tui Lawn Preparation Mix to the area. This will provide lawn seed with a base of essential nutrients and fertiliser.Create a level and compact area for your lawn by raking, rolling and ÿ lling in where needed. Give the ground a thorough water before sowing.

• For even distribution measure the area to be done and divide it into two lots. Scatter half in a north-south direction, the other half at right angles, in an east-west direction.

• Depending on seed used, germination should take 1-2 weeks.

• It’s crucial to keep a newly sown lawn damp. Water regularly using a mist spray.

• Avoid over watering as this can lead to “damping-o˜ disease”, which can kill the tiny grass seedlings.

IRRIGATION

• The right amount of water is crucial to the success of a new lawn. Overwatering can lead to a disease called damping o˜ . Damping o˜ is a problem where several di˜ erent fungus cause emerging

WHAT SEED SHOULD YOU SOW?

Quality matters when it comes to sowing lawn seed (any seed in fact), so you can be sure it will be free of weeds; have a higher, and faster, germination rate with good moisture content. We recommend either Tui or Burnet’s seed for best results.

Tui Lawn Force Superstrike Seed features a unique treatment which encourages fast germination (you should see results in as little as 7 days) but is then slow growing for less mowing. This treatment also protects the seed from common fungal diseases during establishment, reduces bird theft and includes an additive to minimise dust. 750g covers 30m2.

SPRING BULBS

We have received more but be quick– the last order ˝ ew out the door

ONGOING CARE:

• You need to be careful what you do with a new lawn in regards to feeding so take care.

• A soil conditioner or seaweed tonic is beneÿ cial in the beginning as it encourages a strong root system, which will help your plants to thrive.

• If you have clay soil then mix up some Gypsum Clay Breaker in a watering can and apply to your lawn before you fertilise. This will break down the soil and allow the water to get in (plus many more beneÿ ts).

• Before mowing, wait until it has grown to at least 5cm so the root system has had time to develop.

• Use sharp blades and set your mower to the highest level, gradually lowering over the next three months until you reach the optimum height of 2.5cm-3cm.

grass shoots to collapse; turn thread like and wilt; turn a green/gray/brown colour and roots will not establish.

• We recommend using a water timer and gentle sprinkler or misting irrigation system for newly establishing lawns.

FLOWERING HEDGES

Camellias are a great choice for year round beauty

POTTED FRUIT TREES

GROW A COMFY LAWN

Some di˜ erent types include:

ALL SEASONS: Used in stadiums around NZ; includes winter-active seed varieties to ensure it grows even in cooler temperatures

EASYCARE: A blend of ryegrass and turf fescue, for a lush, green lawn, suited to medium-high use areas.

HOT & DRY: A blend of tall fescue, ÿ ne turf ryegrass and Kentucky bluegrass for a drought tolerant lawn suitable for medium-high use areas.

SHADY PLACES: A blend of tall fescue and ÿ ne turf fescues for a deep green lawn that will thrive in less sunlight (such as under trees) and require less mowing.

We will closed all day on April 25 for ANZAC Day

Burnet’s Lawn Seed is also coated, establishes quickly, withstands vigorous wear & tear & is easy to maintain. 1kg covers 30m2 and some types include:

LEISURE LAWN SEED is suitable for sunny or dappled shaded areas & is a good choice for an all round family lawn. Contains 80% ÿ ne rye, 20% ÿ ne fescue

HARDWEARING LAWN SEED is 75% perennial rye, 20% ÿ ne fescue & 5% browntop and is a good choice for a tough general lawn

TALL FESCUE contains 100% American Tall Fescue seed and has superior drought, heat & disease resistance and grows into a thick lawn, tough lawn.

KEEP

IT

Quality products = Quality results

40L Tui Lawn Prep Mix 2 for $32

The 2023 Wairarapa Balloon Festival brought a blaze of colour to the region’s skies over Easter weekend – as well as thousands of spectators. Whether it was at the headline Night Glow event at Clareville Showgrounds, an early morning test ˜ ight above Carterton, or balloons just passing overhead, Wairarapa locals had plenty of opportunities for eye-catching photography.

PHOTO/GRAEME BOWDEN

PHOTO/BELLA

PHOTO/BELLA CLEARY

PHOTO/ NINA TAIGEL

PHOTO/GRAEME BOWDEN

We’ll open with a lyric from pop-punk band My Chemical Romance: “Teenagers scare the living s*** out of me.”

As a journalist, I meet a lot of young people – and I’ll usually arrive at our interviews with knots in my stomach. It’s like I’m back at school myself – perpetually afraid of landing on the “uncool” heap, risking censure from my more socially astute peers.

And yet, I leave the interview feeling uplifted. Of all the people I’ve conversed with, teens are some of the most articulate, socially aware and creative. They’re organising climate justice protests, campaigning to rid supply chains of modern slavery, and spending their own money on books for sick children. They’re directing their own plays, and writing and shooting their own films. They’re dedicating hours to their craft: Whether that’s handling dogs [page 1] or appearing in musicals [page 4].

If you were to read some other newspaper stories, you’d find a very

different picture of young adulthood. You’d find teenagers who, at best, barely look up from their phones, and are easily led astray by Instagram trends. At worst, ramming cars into jewelry stores, and can only be rehabilitated by a stint in the army. Plenty for older generations to be afraid of. Any positive coverage is usually reserved for the rare “superstars”: The aspiring All Blacks and young pop idols.

Surely, between the hoodie-clad hooligans and Billie Eilish, there’s a middle ground?

Negative media representations of young people are hardly uncommon. Research from Oxford University, studying media coverage from the 1960s onwards, found depictions of young people have been highly contradictory: Teenagers

are either instigators of violence and are thus a danger to society; or vulnerable and helpless, and needing adult protection.

A 2004 UK study found 1 in 3 youth-related articles were based around youth crime – and young people themselves were quoted in only 8 per cent of these reports. Academics refer to this phenomenon as “the adult gaze”: Young people’s stories told through an adult filter and the teenage voice is practically invisible. Has the Western media evolved since then? Perhaps not. In 2020, an Australian study found 50 percent of 16 to 35-years-old believed they were misrepresented in news reports. One particular stereotype that persisted was vapidity, exacerbated by reality TV and influencer culture. In

fact, when asked what they cared about most, the top three answers young Australians gave were mental health, the environment, and gender equality.

I don’t deny there are significant [and newsworthy] issues facing young people. I don’t deny young people can make poor decisions — there are scientific reasons for that.

But still, teenagers are human — and therefore multifaceted. Some teenagers are involved in ram raids every weekend. Others do their homework, get on with their families, do regular volunteer work, and are leaders in their school communities.

And we know negative stereotypes have real world consequences. Studies have correlated stereotyping with increased self-doubt, reduced focus, and higher levels of academic anxiety among teens. When stereotypes are internalised by the wider community, young people become vulnerable to alienation and discrimination.

This is where the

The kids are [mostly] all right Opinion

media can provide a counterbalance. Teens can be self-absorbed — and community-minded. Teens can be obsessed with their phones — and with their hobbies and special interests. Teens’ brains aren’t always great at forethought — and yet they have ideas on how to leave the world in better shape. Are adults willing to listen?

I know I can do better. The positives may not sell as many papers. But teens are full and complete people. And the full picture deserves to be reported.

To all the young people who have shared their stories with Midweek — thank you. Apologies for the nerves — I’m working on it.

to

FIVE MINUTES WITH ...

KYLIE ALEXANDER, founder and former owner of Laughing Owl Fudge, photographer and teacher aide

As a child, I spent a lot of time…

Growing up on a farm and climbing trees.

My friends and loved ones always say I am… A bit nuts.

The famous New Zealander [living or

CONTACT US

dead], I’d like to have a meal with is…

Billy T James.

The most delicious ice cream ˜ avour is… Hokey Pokey.

I would love more time to…

Slow it down!

My favourite local shop is…

Cahoots Cafe in Greytown. The family member I most admire is…

My husband

A song I know all the words to is…

None...I can’t sing.

You may share your opinion in print and online. To comment online, message our Facebook page and feel free to comment on any of the stories. Please email letters to midweek@age.co.nz or post to Wairarapa Midweek letters, P.O. Box 445, Masterton. Include name, address, and phone number. Noms de plume are not accepted. Letter writers’ town of origin will be published with the letter. Letters should be no more than 250 words, and may be edited for space and clarity.

MIDWEEK PHOTOS

Have you got a photo you want to share with Wairarapa?

Whether it’s a reader photo, a cutie, or a snap of you with your Midweek, email it to midweek@age.co.nz with ‘Midweek Photo’ in the subject line, and it could be featured in this segment.

CUTIES OF THE WEEK

Wairarapa needs…

To improve the road to the Cape Palliser Lighthouse. The best accompaniment to a cup of co° ee or tea is… Fudge!

Reader Aimee sent in this beautiful shot of her 13-week-old puppies, Scooby [with white on his nose] and Parker. Sadly, both pups recently became sick with canine parvovirus, and Scooby passed away just before Easter. Parker, however, made a full recovery – which Aimee said the vet called “a little miracle”, as the virus is almost always fatal in young dogs. Parker, a Sta˜ y-Huntaway cross, now lives with Aimee’s nephew Chance – and is his pride and joy.

DISCOVER THE BOARDING ADVANTAGE AT SOLWAY COLLEGE

LIMITED

OPEN DAY

Are you looking into intermediate or secondary school options for your daughter for 2025 and beyond?

PHOTO/AIMEE ROBINSON

PHOTO/FILE

Child artists all grown up

Aratoi’s long running Breadcraft Wairarapa Schools Art exhibition has been running since the 1980s. It is one of the most popular exhibitions in the Aratoi calendar. Students from across the region are given the chance to have their work exhibited in this annual exhibition which is usually shown over the spring school holidays.

Students and teachers both enjoy creating and visiting the exhibition as it brings up new ideas and processes as inspiration for the year ahead. Each year, we find that the quality of work improves and there are always new ideas shown.

For five years, 25 years ago, the collection

manager and director decided to keep a small selection of work from the school’s art exhibition and accept it into our permanent collection.

Over the past few weeks, Aratoi has dug out these images, hung them in the foyer and managed to contact most of the artists involved.

Jo Torr, Aratoi’s

$50k upgrade for empty QE park hall

achieving anything,” Bowyer said.

Emily Ireland emily.ireland@age.co.nz

Masterton councillors have agreed to invest nearly $50,000 to upgrade Coronation Hall into a bookable/leasable space with a noncommercial kitchen.

The 111-year-old building at Queen Elizabeth Park was formerly leased by cafe businesses that did not succeed long-term.

At last week’s council meeting, all councillors voted for the upgrade, with the exception of councillor Craig Bowyer.

“This building has a long and chequered history of not really

“I’m just wondering, do you have any hard and fast figures as to whether this investment will achieve anything?”

A council staffer said they had been approached by several community groups who are interested in using the space, but no business plan had been developed for the option.

They noted that while sitting unoccupied, Coronation Hall’s annual operational costs were about $11,500, which included security and building maintenance.

Masterton District Council’s community facilities and activities manager Corin Haines said the council was aiming to achieve a “cost-neutral” situation

collections manager said it was wonderful to see these pictures again.

“These artists were just children at the time. It’s so interesting to hear what they are doing now and if they are still being creative.”

Kelsey Calder, who painted the image The Nick Nack Bird at just five years old, said that

it was “so bizarre” to see her painting again after so long.

“I remember my parents having a copy of it in our hallway at home,” Calder said. “It is surreal having it shown at Aratoi again, what an honour.”

Jodie Kjestrup, who is now a firefighter at the Masterton Fire Station, said that it brought back

so many memories for her seeing her picture in Aratoi’s permanent collection.

“I always loved art at school, and seeing this painting again has inspired me to take up being creative again.”

• School’s Art Revisited is showing in the Foyer until Sunday, April 23.

and wanted the building occupied and maximised as a resource for the community.

“There is an option to do nothing, but it means it sits there and we still have to maintain it,” he said.

“Creating a space that can be used in multiple

ways gives us the best chance of having the best return on the building, as opposed to the risk of opening it up as a cafe, which may or may not succeed.”

The annual 2022-23 capital expenditure budget for all council’s rental properties, which

includes Coronation Hall, is $52,000. There is $43,360 still available in this budget. Under the option voted on by councillors, the investment required is $49,850. – NZLDR • Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air

Featured school artists: Jackie Buller, Sam McLeod, Jodie Kjestrup, Brandi Buchanan, Kelsey Calder, Imogen Wallace, Nick Taylor, Rhys Mackey, Leith Chalmers and Robbie Shaw.

PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Coronation Hall in Queen Elizabeth Park. PHOTO/FILE

Council News

New water bore for Soldiers Memorial Park

You may soon notice some work taking place around Greytown’s Soldiers Memorial Park. A water bore based at the Memorial Pool carpark, which is the town’s key water source, has reached the end of its life and needs to be replaced.

Our water services provider, Wellington Water, is consulting with the community, sports groups, mana whenua and other stakeholders on its plan to replace the bore this winter. Currently the bore, pump and treatment chemicals are housed in containers in the pool carpark. Of the five options for a new location, the

Keeping things tidy

Fallen leaves and autumn rain can be pretty but dangerous for those with accessibility issues. During the last Long-term Plan process, urban residents voted to mow their own berms and save Council the expense. Over a year has now gone past and most residents have been playing their part.

We thank you for doing your bit and, as we head into autumn, ask you to remember that our footpaths are also important. For anyone pushing a pram, using a walking stick or driving a mobility scooter, fallen fruit and leaves can be slippery and branches hard to dodge. Please consider cleaning up footpaths and drains outside your homes and pruning overhanging branches to keep pedestrians safe. Your neighbours will thank you for keeping an eye on your berm and footpath.

NOTICE OF MEETINGS

Meeting agendas are available for inspection at least two days before the meeting at the district libraries, Council offices and at www.swdc.govt.nz

preference by far is to fence off a corner of the pool area and put the bore equipment inside. It will take up a 3m by 6m area near the toddler pool and will be fully secure. This will not affect the existing BBQ and covered grass areas of the pool. This project will be beneficial on a number of fronts - first and foremost, it will increase the resilience of Greytown’s drinking water supply. It will also improve the look of the carpark and free up some space.

It will also mean the container for chemical treatment can be relocated around the side of the pool. The building housing the existing bore will

Street recycling

Recently our mixed rubbish and recycling street bins came under media scrutiny around Councils sending street recycling to the landfill. This is not to be confused with kerbside recycling, which we can assure you goes directly to the Masterton Recycling Centre. Our street recycling does not currently get sorted because of a high degree (70%) of contamination. We want to be in a position where the collectors can sort it safely, without having to worry about broken glass, soiled nappies or dirty food packaging. Please help us to ensure these don’t end up going to landfill by ensuring the correct items are put in the right bins. Contamination is also an issue for kerbside recycling (around 40%). So come on South Wairarapa –we can do better!

Meet Amanda

Do you have a position that needs filling or are you looking for a job for yourself? Amanda Cuff, our Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs (MTFJ) co-ordinator would love to meet you. Amanda holds pop-in sessions around our district to connect job seekers with employers. She supports people getting into jobs, apprenticeships and training.

Every Tuesday 9am to 12pm, job seekers and business

be reassessed once the new system is operating. Before work begins, information will be made available in libraries and via a letter from Wellington Water to local residents.

Out and about

Our Amenities team has been busy improving our public spaces. New facilities include:

• Martinborough Waihinga Centre playground – After a long wait for supplies to arrive, a replacement rope climbing frame has been installed.

• Greytown, corner of Humphries St and West St – A new seat, courtesy of the last Greytown Community Board.

• Lights at Featherston playground –Replacement bulbs have arrived and are being installed.

• Repainting of Featherston pool –Council provided the paint and volunteers have given the pool a snazzy new paint job.

The pool carpark will be closed during construction, but users will still be able to use the Kuratawhiti Street side of the park. Vehicle access to the clubrooms will be limited.

Flood Mapping

Wellington Water and Greater Wellington are planning to actively involve South Wairarapa communities in some vital regional flood mapping projects. Wellington Water has completed complex flood modelling in Martinborough, Greytown and Featherston. Beginning with Featherston, they will be asking the community for insight and observations to validate their models. The work focuses on how water flows above ground in urban areas.

Greater Wellington Regional Council is also completing flood modelling in the region over the coming 18 months. While there are similarities, Greater Wellington’s work is focussed on mapping rivers and waterways. They will also be asking Featherston residents for their insights for data validation, such as photos and observations. With this in mind, both organisations will join forces to run engagement sessions later this year where the community will be able to find out more about these important projects.

Public participation is welcome. If you wish to speak during the public participation session at any of the below meetings, please phone 06 306 9611 at least 24 hours prior to the meeting or email enquiries@swdc.govt.nz

Please note space is limited in the Pūtahi Room; virtual public participation is available via Zoom. Masks are available for those in attendance. If you have cold and flu symptoms, please stay at home.

The meetings will be livestreamed on our YouTube Channel, where possible. Community Boards have agreed to use a variety of formats to engage locally. These opportunities will be promoted via social media and your local free newsletters.

APRIL MEETINGS

COUNCIL

Wednesday, 26 April at 9am. Supper Room, Waihinga Centre, Texas Street, Martinborough

MĀORI STANDING COMMITTEE

Thursday, 27 April at 6pm. Supper Room, Waihinga Centre, Texas Street, Martinborough

MAY MEETINGS

GREYTOWN COMMUNITY BOARD

Wednesday, 3 May at 7pm. Greytown WBS Room, Greytown Town Centre, Main St, Greytown

MARTINBOROUGH COMMUNITY BOARD

Thursday, 4 May at 7pm. Supper Room, Waihinga Centre, Texas Street, Martinborough

FINANCE COMMITTEE

Wednesday, 3 May at 10am. Pūtahi Room, SWDC Office, Kitchener Street, Martinborough

ASSURANCE AND RISK COMMITTEE

Wednesday, 3 May at 12:30pm. Pūtahi Room, SWDC Office, Kitchener Street, Martinborough

managers have the opportunity to meet with the team of MTFJ coordinators at the Featherston Community Centre, and often at the Featherston Library on a Wednesday. As there are so many good places to connect in South Wairarapa, Amanda will be more mobile around our three villages. Look out for all dates and times on our website and Facebook page. If you would like to contact Amanda, email amanda.cuff@swdc.govt.nz

Flood mapping is a strategic decision-making tool which can be used not only by Greater Wellington, Wellington Water and the Council but also by the Wellington Region Emergency Management Office (WREMO) and other government agencies. It will help increase our understanding of flood prone areas and enable decisions to be made on long term solutions, help identify where capital needs to be spent and inform the 30-year Featherston Masterplan.

CEO EMPLOYMENT REVIEW COMMITTEE

Thursday, 11 May at 10am. Supper Room, Waihinga Centre, Texas Street, Martinborough

FEATHERSTON COMMUNITY BOARD

Ordinary Meeting:

Wednesday, 17 May at 7pm Featherston Community Centre, Wakefield Street, Featherston

Harry Wilson CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Secret spit or more visitors?

Ali Mackisack WaiP2K

Beyond the fence created to protect the nesting grounds, and behind the “please stay on the track” signs, the wheel marks of a vehicle form overlapping loops in the sand. They crisscross the archaeological remains of midden and fire pit site, where iwi harvested tuna in days gone by. The tyres have torn up fragile mats of the tiny raoulia plant which work to hold the sand in place in the fierce face of the southerly.

Denise and Dougal MacKenzie look over the damage with both despair and resignation. They’ve seen it all before. They’re just glad the breeding season has finished and there are no young banded dotterels or caspian terns left to disturb.The couple have spent over a decade caring for, protecting, and promoting this unique and precious little ecosystem. It only takes one ignorant joyrider to wreck it.

Dougal and Denise established Friends of Onoke Spit in 2010. With

a team of volunteers and the support of local groups and organisations, they trapped, planted and educated. They secured funding, support and buy-in for protection of the depleted and very delicate ecosystem which supports a variety of struggling native species.

“Our goal was enhancement – of the area and of people’s knowledge and enjoyment of it,” said Densie.

“But there is friction here too, between the role of education and the role of isolation.

“The more people know, the higher the chance that they’ll want to protect – and deepen their understanding of – a very delicate ecosystem. They might just speak up if they get the chance to protect it,” she said.

“Yet the more people that know of it, the more people come here – and that isn’t necessarily a good thing. We have ongoing discussions about bringing this area to people’s attention.”

The couple continue to share their time and passion but they have lately wound up Friends of Onoke Spit. The Wairarapa Moana group is now invested in the area as part of their wider focus.

Along Onoke Spit, the colony of black-billed gulls is thriving. Most people

visiting, stick to the main track and stay away from the fenced-off nesting areas. Farmers all actively trap animal pest species or allow others to do so on their land. The native replantings are thriving, and the pingao plant –which holds the sand together but has almost disappeared from much of

our coastline – is gradually returning.

These are small, but beautiful wins. What better tribute to a couple who have invested so much into this unique spit of land.

• Midweek has partnered with conservation groups to put a spotlight on conservation efforts locally.

Denise and Dougal MacKenzie. PHOTOS/SUPPLIED

Onoke Spit.

Banded dotterel.

HETĀKAI KŌRERO MAI I WHAKAORIORI

MASTERTON MONTHLY WRAP

Message from the Mayor

know these are di cult times for many people in our community.

The rising cost of living has come after nearly three years of Covid-19, which is still making its presence felt.

People have a lot on their plates – they’re busy getting on with their lives.

So why should they add another reasonably meaty piece of reading – our draft Annual Plan for 2023/24 – to their to-do list?

The short answer is that it dictates your rates and where they are spent. And now’s the time to have your say on where that money goes.

Our consultation on the Annual Plan is into its third week – with a closing date of 1 May.

Councils tend to hear a lot from a small number of people through various means during a year, but hearing the views of a genuine cross-section of our community is not always easy.

By the end of last week, we had received about 40 submissions on our Annual Plan (and a few less on our draft Speed Management Plan).

To me, that is not nearly enough.

People quite rightly make a noise if they think their rates are too high, but now is really the time to make some meaningful noise before the rates are set. The process is very simple.

There is an online option that doesn’t require a log-in, and lets you answer just the questions about the parts of the plan that you’re interested in. We’d love to hear your thoughts on everything, but we know some people would rather focus on a few things. That is fine. And if computers aren’t your thing, pick up a paper copy of the consultation document, and the submission form. Again, give us the answers on the things you are interested in.

You can even give your thoughts by phone during business hours.

Cyclone Gabrielle Relief Update

More than $170,000 in grants from the Wairarapa Mayoral Relief Fund has so far been allocated to 19 applicants, with those in need urged to apply if they require financial help.

Applications for Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment Business Recovery Grants are now available online through the Wairarapa Recovery website (www.wairaraparecovery.nz). Applications to both close this Friday 21 April. Money from the Mayoral Relief Fund is going to a ected families and couples – a total of 30 adults and 25 children, plus one organisation providing community support. The money has been used for assistance such as clean-up of flood damage, clearing private road access, silt clean-up, digger repairs, pump replacement, repairs to damaged electric fencing, and loss of income support.

A total of $257,000 was available from the Mayoral Relief Fund, with a further $250,000 provided by the Government for business recovery grants. Check www.wairarparecovery.nz for the latest information and ways to apply.

PAENGA-WHĀWHĀ 2023

APRIL 2023

Annual Plan – the time to have your say is now!

There’s still time to have your say on Masterton District Council’s plans for the next financial year –and the rates that come with them – but the clock is ticking towards the 1 May closing date.

The Annual Plan consultation is about: y the 2023/24 Annual Plan that will determine rates for the 2023/24 year y options for the 2024-34 Long-Term Plan that will be consulted on next year.

The Annual Plan consultation document outlines Council’s proposed approach to reducing the rates impact in 2023/24. This includes:

Road ahead for speed

Seeking external funding to deliver projects, activities and events for our community –this could include Waitangi Day and Christmas celebrations.

The consultation is also inviting comment on whether Masterton should apply to become a Dark Sky Reserve and contribute to the Five Towns Cycle Trail Project, which would build a network of cycle trails across the Wairarapa connecting the five towns in our region. Costs are outlined in the consultation document.

Consultation is also underway for on the Council’s draft Speed Management Plan – aimed at reducing speeds around schools, marae, and on high-risk roads that the Council is responsible for.

Road Controlling Agencies, of which Masterton District Council is one, are now required by the Government to take a whole-of-network approach to speed management. This includes developing speed management plans that outline a 10-year vision and a three-year implementation plan for their networks.

To keep up-to-date and report issues, download Antenno from your Apple App Store or Google Play store.

Our elected members are taking part in pop-ups around the community – including having a table at Charlie’s Lane on Queen Street each Wednesday lunchtime until the end of the month.

We can’t guess what you’re thinking, so please take a few minutes to say what you feel before Monday 1 May!

Equipment failure forces temporary closure of pools

The five-lane pool at the Trust House Recreation Centre has been temporarily closed after problems with the ageing compressor that heats, and cools, water and air at the centre.

The 20-old-compressor has failed, and must be replaced, with a smaller back-up compressor unable to fully replace the machine. This has resulted in issues with the temperature in the five-lane and spa pools.

To prevent the back-up unit itself failing, the five-lane pool is now closed to reduce the load on the back-up unit.

The Council hopes to install the new unit next week.

The old compressor received regular visual inspections and an annual service.

Councillors fine-tune CPR skills

y Increasing user pays funding for some services –increasing fees and charges would mean less rates funding is required for these services. New fees for disposing of e-waste are also proposed.

y Helping community groups to identify alternative funding opportunities – this would mean the Council could reduce community funding for the year.

You can also help shape the 2024-34 Long-Term Plan (LTP), which will be put together over the coming 12 months and will be consulted on in early 2024.

For the LTP, people can share their thoughts on a reduced scope for the Civic Facility project, and give their views on services where savings could be made, and any services where they would be willing to pay more to see improvements.

The Speed Management Plan for the Masterton District will help us transition from the way we have set speed limits in the past to a more flexible approach that better takes into account local conditions and the surrounding environment.

You can comment on the approach being proposed, as well as suggesting other roads where speeds should be reduced.

Consultation closes 1 May 2023.

Council Meetings

The meetings of the Council and its committees for the coming month are listed below.

Unless specified, all meetings will be held in the Kiwi Room at Waiata House, 27 Lincoln Road, Masterton. Members of the public are welcome to attend these meetings. The meetings will also be accessible to the public via the livestream on the Masterton District Council Facebook page. Agendas will be available on the Council website (www. mstn.govt.nz) and copies will be available for inspection at the main Council o ce, 161 Queen Street, and at the Library, 54 Queen Street, two working days prior to the meeting.

Opportunity for Public Comment

At the beginning of some meetings, a period is available for those who wish to speak or comment on any matter relevant to the meeting in question. Requests to speak at a meeting should be made to Harriet Kennedy, Governance Advisor, phone 370 6300 or email mdc@mstn.govt.nz at least one clear day before the meeting.

What’s On

Tuesday 25 April - ANZAC Day

Wednesday 26 April 3pm Infrastructure and Services Committee Meeting

Monday 1 May 4pm Annual Plan and Speed Management Plan consultations close

Wednesday 3 May 3pm Council meeting (to adopt the 2021/2022 Annual Report)

Wednesday 18 May 9am A nnual Plan Hearing 3pm Council meeting

Thursday 19 May 9am Annual Plan Hearing continued TBC

Wednesday 24 May 3pm Audit and Risk Committee meeting

Have you ever wished the ground would open up and swallow you whole?

That moment you realise you have said or done something that’s just not quite right.

Many years ago, we were having dinner in a restaurant when a couple walked in and the woman looked at me and said in a loud voice “ooh look, it’s Father Des” and came striding over to greet her favourite chef, Des Britten. She was very embarrassed when she arrived at our table and discovered it was only me. “Oh, no it’s not” she said as she walked off.

I’ve put my foot in it many times and dug the hole deeper as I have tried to climb out.

I worked with a woman in my Air New Zealand days who was always immaculately dressed and groomed. She was also rather

intimidating with a reputation of speaking her mind and we seldom ever saw a smile on her face.

I used to keep well away from her but one afternoon in the staff room I thought I would compliment her on her appearance. What I was trying to say was, that despite it being afternoon she still looked like she had just been done up [if you get my drift].

“You look like you have just got out of bed,” I blurted out. Well, it took a month for the kettle to stop boiling but even after that, we rarely made eye contact.

Imagine how this man felt. He went to kiss a baby being held by its mother and when it was too late, he realised it was attached to its mother’s breast. In his panic, he ended up kissing the breast

instead of the baby. One poor lady fled from a clothing store with embarrassment after stroking a coat on a mannequin, only to discover it was another ‘live’ customer waiting to be served.

Spare a thought for the poor woman who couldn’t start her car in a supermarket car park. She tried, a policeman tried and two passersby tried. In the end she called a tow truck to tow her home. When they got to her house, there was her car, parked in the drive way. She had forgotten she had gone to the supermarket with a friend. She asked the tow truck driver to take the “stolen “ car back to the car park as quickly as possible.

When I was living in Wellington, I went to Foxton for the day with a group of friends to watch a race horse we owned have its first trial. On the way home we stopped at Otaki to get some fish and chips. I got the job of going in and ordering them.

When I came out, I

and enhance your home for years to come.

Support your family to give your children and grandchildren a helping hand.

Day-today expenses to supplement your income and cover daily expenses with ease.

Visit family and friends to take a trip to see your children/grandchildren.

Car purchase to maintain or upgrade your car.

Medical and healthcare - to cover healthcare costs and aged care.

Travel and holidays - to tick off dream destinations from your bucket list.

[1] Lifetime occupancy - you can live in your home for as long as you choose.

[2] No negative equity guarantee - the amount required to repay the loan may not exceed the net sale proceeds of the property.

[3] Loan repayment there is no requirement to make any loan repayment until the end of the loan, although you are free to do so at any time.

[4] The security for the reverse mortgage is a rst mortgage over your property.

It is important that you are completely happy with the reverse mortgage. To ensure this, you must receive independent legal advice from a solicitor of our choice, who will represent your interests and make sure you understand every aspect of the reverse mortgage.

What you need to know

Who can apply? homeowners but subject to you satisfying any age conditions

Property criteria - your property must be residential, of conventional construction and in good repair. It must also meet minimum property criteria, including a valuation, if required.

You may be able to take out a reverse mortgage on an investment property or holiday home. Loans cannot be secured against Occupations Rights Agreements in retirement villages.

Interest - interest will be charged on your loan balance at the current reverse mortgage variable rate and will be added to your loan monthly.

The interest rate is variable, which provides you with exibility to make repayments at any time, without penalty.

The interest rate will change from time to time which depends on what is happening in the funding market and economy both in New Zealand and overseas, as well as changes to our own borrowing costs.

As a valuation of the property may or may not be required. Before you enter into a reverse mortgage you are required to obtain independent legal advice which can give to you.

If you with to obtain any further information about reverse mortgages, wills and enduring powers of attorney or any other legal matter please contact me.

The rst appointment to discuss the above matters, wills & enduring powers of attorneys is free

Freephone: 0800 249 529 Email: simon@thepropertylawyer.co.nz

222 Chapel St, Kuripuni, Masterton | www.thepropertylawyer.co.nz

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Anzac Day

The history of Anzac Day

Anzac Day is observed on 25 April each year. In general, it commemorates New Zealanders and Australians killed in war but also honours all returned and serving Servicemen and Servicewomen. Specifically, the date marks the anniversary of the landing of Australian and New Zealand soldiers –the Anzacs – on the Gallipoli Peninsula in 1915 during WWI. On that day, thousands of young men, far from their homes, stormed the beaches on the Gallipoli Peninsula in what is now Turkey. The aim of the Anzacs, together with other allied troops, was to capture the Dardanelles and open a sea route to the Bosphorus and the Black Sea. At the end of the campaign, Gallipoli was still held by its Ottoman Turkish defenders.

On the day of the Gallipoli landing, 153 New Zealand soldiers were killed and many more wounded. Over the eight months of fighting at Gallipoli, 2,779 New Zealanders were killed and 5,212 wounded, amounting to about 57 percent of the New Zealanders at Gallipoli. In addition, at least 87,000 Ottoman Turks and 8,500 Australian soldiers died during this push.

The fighting may have ended in military defeat, but for many New Zealanders, both then and since, the Gallipoli landings signalled that New Zealand was becoming a distinct nation, even as it fought on the other side of the world in the name of the British Empire.

After WWI, returned soldiers sought the comradeship they had felt in those quiet, peaceful moments before dawn. A dawn vigil, recalling the wartime front line practice of the dawn ‘standto’, became the basis of a form of commemoration after the war.

Anzac Day was first observed in New Zealand in 1916. The day has gone through many changes since. The ceremonies that are held at war memorials up and down New Zealand, and in places overseas where New Zealanders gather, are modelled on a military funeral. They are rich in tradition and ritual.

The Australian and New Zealand Governments also jointly conduct the Anzac Day Gallipoli Dawn Service on 25 April each year at a site in Gallipoli itself. This service takes place with the permission and support of the host nation, the Republic of Turkey.

The red poppy Anzac Day

The red or Flanders poppy has been linked with battlefield deaths since WWI and has become a symbol of war remembrance the world over. People in many countries wear the poppy to remember those who died in war or are serving in the armed forces.

The poppy is often worn on Armistice Day (11 November), which is when WWI ended. In New Zealand, however, the poppy is usually seen on Anzac Day, 25 April.

The poppy was one of the first plants to grow and bloom on battlefields in the Belgian region of Flanders after WWI.

The connection was made most famously by a Canadian medical officer, Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae, in his poem, ‘In Flanders fields’. Distressed at the death and suffering around him, McCrae is said to have scribbled the verses in his notebook.

In a cemetery nearby, red poppies blew gently in the breeze – a symbol of regeneration and growth in a landscape of blood and destruction.

In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Pampered Paws

Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie

In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.

With thanks to the New Zealand History government website for this material.

Anzac dawn commemorations of remembrance

Returned and serving Servicemen and Servicewomen, Service organisations, and the general public, are all welcome to participate in Anzac Day services and parades.

Masterton

Participants will assemble at 5.30am at Masterton’s War Memorial Stadium (Trust House Recreation Centre) in Dixon Street, to parade to the Cenotaph in QE Park for services.

Dignitaries including the Mayor of Masterton Gary Caffell and Kieran McAnulty, Wairarapa’s MP, will be invited to lay wreaths, if their calendars allow. A lone piper will sound its haunting notes while wreaths are laid.

Guest speaker Cadet Corporal Norris, from the 21 Squadron Air Training Corp, will speak about a distinguished former Masterton resident and WWII aviator who received several awards. Students from Makoura College’s Military Service Academy will attend, and one will recite the Ode of Remembrance in Māori.

Masterton’s brass band will play. Participants can march back to Club Wairarapa – the home of Masterton’s RSA (Returned and Services Association) - for breakfast, available for a koha.

Kaiparoro

A service will be held at the ANZAC Memorial Bridge on State Highway 2, near Eketahuna, commencing at 2:00pm. It was built in 1922 by Alfred Falkner, father of one of six local soldiers commemorated on the bridge, and is now a category 1 listed structure with the New Zealand Historic Places Trust.

Parking will be available at Miller Reserve and there is a walkway to the bridge.

Following the service, an afternoon tea will be held at Pukaha Mount Bruce Wildlife Centre at $5.00 per person.

This year, the contribution and service of Nurses in the Defence Force will be acknowledged. Private Margret McAnulty, killed in WWII and memorialised on the bridge, will be remembered.

Tinui

Tinui will be sticking to its Anzac Day tradition this year, despite the clean-up from Cyclone Gabrielle. This year marks the 107th service in the town. Brigadier Anne Campbell will be this year’s guest speaker and Tinui parish’s Reverend Steve Thomson will officiate. Wairarapa TV will broadcast the service which begins at 10.30am on 25 April.

On 25 April 1916 the World’s first ever Anzac service was held at the Church of the Good Shepherd. After the service the Tinui community erected a wooden cross on top of Mt. Maunsell (Tinui Taipo) as one of New Zealand’s first memorials to the Gallipoli Campaign.

This year, the usual walk along Anzac Walkway from Tinui Cemetery to the memorial cross, following the service, will not go ahead. The aim is to re-open the walkway for next year’s services.

Anzac Day

Carterton

Ode of Remembrance

The Ode of Remembrance has been recited to commemorate wartime service and sacrifice since 1921.

The Ode is the 4th stanza of the poem For the Fallen by Laurence Binyon, first published in September 1914. Binyon was an English academic and poet. He worked as a medical orderly with the Red Cross on the Western Front during WWI. By the time his poem was published in The Times, the British Expeditionary Force had already experienced devastating losses on the Western Front.

The English version of the Ode is:

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them. Response: We will remember them Lest we forget. When the Ode is recited at a commemorative service, visitors should stand, remove headwear and refrain from talking.

Carterton District Council assists the RSA to coordinate the Anzac Parade and Service for 25 April each year. “We are happy to support the RSA to commemorate such an important occasion for all New Zealanders and deliver an Anzac service for the Carterton community that aligns with the RSA’s wishes.”

The service brings a level of formality, with dignitaries and representatives attending including Mayor Hon. Ron Mark, New Zealand Defence Force, and the Australian and British High Commissions. “Nevertheless, our Carterton Service is very much a community event with participation from local schools, churches, and community groups.” All are welcome and invited.

In 2022 the Council erected a range of core flute panels in Memorial Square, commemorating local soldiers. It is doing this again in 2023, with some new additions.

The 2023 parade will assemble at 10.45am in Holloway Street and move off at 11.00am. The parade route makes its way along Holloway Street, right into High Street and will finish with the Service in Memorial Square.

The square and its central memorial were dedicated in 1921, commemorating 114 Carterton area men. In previous years part of the service has been held in the Carterton Club on Broadway.

This year, however, all the formalities will take place in the Square with the opportunity for some light refreshments and conversation at the Club afterwards.

we forget”

we forget” “We

Greytown

The Greytown RSA Committee will conduct a public Commemoration Service at the WWII Memorial, Kuratawhiti Street, at 10.30 am. This will be followed by a short Civic Service at the South Wairarapa Workingmen’s Club. Residents and visitors are cordially invited to attend.

Featherston

Featherston will hold two services this Anzac Day, to which residents and visitors are cordially invited.

• The first is a Dawn Service starting at 5.45am at the Cross of Sacrifice, Featherston Cemetery, Western Lake Road. Please be assembled by 5.40am.

Martinborough

Residents of Martinborough and District are invited to attend the Dawn Parade and Service.

Participants will assemble at 5.45am outside Pain and Kershaws on Jellicoe Street and the parade will move off to the Square at 5.55am for the Service and laying of the wreaths.

Due to the early start a torch is advisable. Coffee and tea will be available in the Supper Room of the Waihinga Centre following the Service.

FOREST & WOODLOT OWNERS…

• At 9.00am, a Civic Service will be held at the Featherston War Memorial on the corner of Fitzherbert (State Highway 2) and Fox Streets. Featherston RSA’s lifelong member and kaumatua, Dick Smith, will officiate at the ceremony and the Deputy Mayor for South Wairarapa District Council, Melissa Sadler-Futter, will lay a wreath. Anyone intending to lay a wreath at either service is asked to contact the RSA on 022 165 3521 no later than noon, Monday 24 April.

Lake Ferry

The Lake Ferry service will be returning to its full service again this year, with involvement from local iwi, schools, and residents. The parade will gather at the flagpole ay 10.15am for a 10.30am start. Mayor Martin Connelly will attend for the laying of wreaths. Following the service there will be a community BBQ and Sports at the Lake Ferry Domain - whānau and tamariki are invited.

NZ FOREST WORKS

Choose the infinite game

Midweek Musings

Tim Nelson

An idea shared by author Simon Sinek is that of the infinite game. Essentially this means the things that we do that have no endpoint, as opposed to a game that does. For example, training for a marathon might be considered a finite game, as you go through the training programme before completing the event. Once the event is over the game is finished. Many people will do this or something similar, often leaving all the good achieved through the training programme, as the goal has been achieved, the training stops, and the next ‘game’ is started.

The infinite game, in my opinion, is a much better way to live your life. I have been training for many years and the positives of doing so have had a substantial impact on my life. Yes, there have been many events along the way, such as a couple of marathons, but these have been a part of the bigger picture, which is to train for life to the benefit of my physical and mental wellbeing.

Why you should be negative

A message we constantly hear is how important it is to be positive. This definitely resonates with me, with all of these posts being positive, looking for stories and anecdotes that will inspire others to live better lives.

These posts also motivate me to look for the good news stories and ideas that might otherwise be overlooked, and to share them through my writing to help others to see life is full of goodness and opportunities to be better to both ourselves and others.

The entrepreneur and philanthropist Alex Hormozi has a slightly different view on positivity, at least from one perspective, this being around the idea of visualisation. He sees the benefit of negative visualisation, as opposed to taking a positive view.

Hormozi believes that a very powerful idea is to take something you’re doing now that you know could be better, then to look ahead into the future to what your life might look like if you keep doing the same thing. It could be a job, a relationship, health and

fitness habits, the place you live, or anything at all that you know you should change. What will your life be like if you keep doing the same thing? Negative visualisation is one way to consider this, and a step you can take now to make a change now.

Today is special

I am very fortunate to be about to leave on a trip at the beginning of a sabbatical. I have been looking forward to this for some time, it is a wonderful opportunity to do something different in a place very different to Masterton, my home town. The time between being awarded the sabbatical and my departure, which is just a few days from now, has been several months. Reading this, it would be easy to think that I have been wishing my life away … Nothing could be further from the truth. Yes, I am definitely looking forward to the experience, but over the past few months there have been many things I have looked forward to and enjoyed immensely. There have also been other experiments I have had that I didn’t expect at all, but have also had immense joy and satisfaction from.

I know what I have shared here is true because I have a documented

record of these experiences, whether they were planned or unexpected. Every day I finish the day by recording three things:

• A highlight for the day just gone

• Something I am looking forward to the next day

• Something I am grateful for Recording these three things is a great way to remind myself that everyday is special, whether it’s in the town I live, or in an exotic location thousands of kilometres away.

How to teach something

Teaching takes many forms. There are debates on topics such as: the best way to teach reading; what is the best

type of environment for children to learn in; whether learning should be child or teacher centred … the list is a long one, with perspectives constantly changing from one extreme to another, or the same idea becoming fashionable years later, but under a different name.

Yesterday I was at a conference. One of the presenters, Jase Te Patu, made a comment in his workshop on mindfulness that really resonated with me, this being that, as teachers we need to be an

example of mindfulness, essentially, rather than telling children what to do, we need to be living and demonstrating the concept of mindfulness through our own actions.

This same idea can apply in so many other ways. The way we live our lives is the best way to teach others. I’m inspired by people who do the things I want to be doing myself: the likes of Russell Bishop in education; Doug Bracewell for service to the community; Sister Madonna Buder for physical health; these being three examples, none of whom have ever told or directly taught me what to do, but all have

had a significant impact on the way I live my life.

Don’t be a phubber

I heard the term ‘phubber’ for the first time today. The term refers to someone who repeatedly looks at their phone when they’re interacting with another person. Most of us have done this, and had someone else do it to us. It’s definitely something to be aware of and certainly something to avoid doing ourselves.

Do your best

I read today in Ryan Holiday’s book Discipline is Destiny about the idea of doing our best. Holiday starts the chapter by sharing the story of former president Jimmy Carter, how he was interviewed to be in a specific branch of the navy. The

recruiter asked Carter if he had tried his best at The Navy Academy. On hearing the question, Carter was initially going to reply “yes”, being proud of where he finished in his class. However, on reflection, he thought about the countless times he was far from his best in terms of effort; the days when he drifted along, doing just enough to get by.

Sure, there were many times when he did give 100 per cent, but there were plenty of other occasions when he certainly didn’t. We don’t need to live lives of always going full tilt, but there are many times we should be for certain aspects of our lives. When we are honest with ourselves, more likely than not we should be able to acknowledge we could have given more on some of the things that really count.

If we really did do our best in key areas, then I believe our lives would be very much more enriching and fulfilling.

Your life in weeks I have shared this idea before, but, like so many of the best ideas, it’s worth repeating. The concept of your life in weeks was discussed by health advocate Peter Attia in an interview I listened to.

Attia is using the idea to help him to prioritise what’s important in his life. He has a calendar that

he marks off the weeks to what he has predicted to be when he dies.

Now that this is a finite amount for Attia, as opposed to the belief our lives are seemingly endless and there will always be time to do the things we want to do when the stars align and conditions are finally right, he is far more careful in regards to what he commits his time to.

For example, knowing his children will be leaving home, Attia will prioritise moments with them over speaking in a conference, as that sort of opportunity with his children will come to an end, while the speaking engagements will always be there.

Many will see the concept of your life in weeks as being quite morbid. However, like Attia, I see it as a great way of valuing what is truly important in life.

When we know things won’t go on forever, at least in an earthly sense, then we can look for and make the most of what is truly important to us.

• Tim Nelson is principal of Lakeview School and author of the book Small Steps for a happy and purposeful life. He endeavours to learn something new every day by reading books, listening to podcasts, and engaging with a wide range of other content.

PHOTO/STOCK.ADOBE.COM

ANZAC DAWN COMMEMORATION OF REMEMBRANCE

Tuesday 25 April 2023

Masterton

An invitation is extended to all ex-Service, Servicemen and women, Service organisations, and the general public to participate in the Masterton Anzac Day Parade.

5.30am All ex-Service personnel, Service personnel and Service groups assemble outside the Masterton War Memorial stadium/Trust House Recreation Centre, Dixon Street. Those unable to march, and the general public, are asked to assemble at the Cenotaph in Queen Elizabeth Park

5.45am Parade marches south along Dixon Street to the Cenotaph in Queen Elizabeth Park

5.55am Service at Cenotaph commences.

On completion of the service the parade will depart the park via Park, Queen, Jackson, and Chapel Streets and across into Essex Street where the parade will fall out. Participants are asked to dress according to weather conditions. Please bring a torch as lighting will be minimal.

Tinui

10.30am Service at Tinui Hall war memorial.

ANZAC bridge

2pm Service at the ANZAC Bridge on SH2, Kaiparoro. An afternoon tea will be held following the service at Pukaha Mount Bruce Wildlife Centre ($5.00 per person).

Tails wagging for Henley Lake dog park

Emily Ireland emily.ireland@age.co.nz

Masterton’s elected members have signed off on the establishment of a new community-funded dog park on 0.6 hectares of council land at Henley Lake.

The dog park – initiated by Masterton Rotary and Masterton South Rotary – will be developed on the land beside the Henley Mens Shed, which is grazed under licence.

The licensee is comfortable with an end to the lease with threemonth’s notice, a council report said.

A Memorandum of Understanding [MoU] between Rotary and Masterton District Council [MDC] will come back to council for approval next month.

MDC community

facilities and activities manager Corin Haines said with any community initiative there is “always the potential for something to come back at council”, but that the MoU will make responsibilities “very clear”.

A report to councillors said likely ongoing costs would relate to maintenance of fence lines and structures and general landscape maintenance.

“It is proposed that an MoU be developed between Rotary South Masterton, Rotary Masterton, and the council to cover funding of the development, ongoing costs, and the process for damage remediation and resolution of any disputes...”

The report also said: “There are no financial considerations as a result of this report, with the funding to come from external sources. In the event that community groups aren’t able to fund costs to maintain the park in the longer-term, council will need to consider what

STAY IN GOOD HEALTH

WAIRARAPA

support it will provide”. Subject to approval, work will begin immediately.

The park will comprise the following: Fencing which creates a safe space for all sizes of dogs; signage with rules for use; a lime path around the perimeter; shelter; dog agility equipment; fresh water supply; and a waste bin with emptying schedule.

In 2017, MDC undertook a survey of residents on dog policy issues and the establishment of a dog park. The issue was also discussed at a public meeting in February 2018.

The majority of respondents did not support paying higher registration fees for additional services required to provide and support a dog park.

The proposal to fund the development of the park by Rotary removes a major barrier to the development of a facility. – NZLDR • Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air

Mid-winter hot toddies

If you’re planning a mid-winter celebration or want something warming after a crisp walk, why not whip up a hot toddy for your guests. Unlike mulled wine or warm cider, hot toddies are light and hydrating rather than sweet.

Jump online and ÿ nd a recipe – they could not be easier to make. Often, you’ll only need hot water, whiskey, honey, and lemon. Or, if you prefer, you can make your hot toddy with dark rum or brandy.

Hot toddies are reported to help reduce cold symptoms, although you may not want to overdo it on the whiskey. Your body needs to heal, and the simple combination of warm water, honey, lemon – and maybe a grating of root ginger – can work wonders.

Alcohol doesn’t mix well with medications. Best to nurse yourself back to health with everything but the whiskey.

Time out

The secret is out: mid-winter breaks improve workplace e° ciency. We mistakenly believe that more hours will always increase output, while ignoring the evidence. The secret to being an e˛ ective worker is not working endlessly.

In the mid-1920s, the auto giant Henry Ford reduced his factories’ workweek from six days to ÿ ve, and 48 hours to 40, after discovering that productivity returns diminished steadily after his workers toiled eight hours a day, ÿ ve days a week.

Study after study indicates that short bursts of attention punctuated with equally deliberate breaks are the surest way to harness our full capacity to be productive. And just as small breaks improve concentration, long breaks replenish job performance. Having a break reduces mistakes and resentment at co-workers. It also improves our perspective on life and improves our mental health, even if it’s only a 24-hour break away.

The bottom line is that breaks are better for our brains than overtime. Where you get your break doesn’t matter as much as getting it. It might be an hour on blogs, a day in the park, or a week at Hanmer Springs for hot pools, snow, cycling and fun. If you care about your own productivity, don’t be afraid to take time out.

Interested

Prinsloo war rifle curiosity

Gareth Winter

Among the firearms displayed in the ‘Masterton Museum – A Cabinet of Curiosities’ exhibition at Aratoi is a bolt action Mauser rifle engraved with the date December 19, 1898 and with the name of “P C Prinsloo”.

The Prinsloo name was a well-known one to Masterton citizens at the time of the South African War, as one of the Boer commanders was General Marthinus Prinsloo. His capture in July 1900, along with 4000 of his men, made headlines in newspapers across the British Empire.

However, the Masterton Museum gun did not belong to him. A hunt through South African war records suggests that the likely owner was Philippus Carolus Prinsloo, a relative of the general. He was born in 1880 and was recorded as being captured in 1901.

The rifle was presented to the Masterton Museum in 1914 by Francis Marion Bates ‘Frank’ Fisher. He was the son of Wellington mayor George Fisher, and a cousin of Percy

Fisher who built the first aeroplane to fly in the Wellington region when his monoplane flew at Pigeon Bush, Featherston, in 1912.

A model of the plane marks the site of later flights at Hurunuiorangi, near Gladstone.

Frank Fisher was a champion tennis player, reaching the semi-finals of the doubles at Wimbledon. He was also an astute politician, serving as a cabinet minister known as ‘Rainbow Fisher’ through his switching of allegiance. He served under four different

banners from 1905 until his defeat in the 1914 election.

He visited Masterton in March 1914 as part of a political campaign – at the time he was the Minister of Customs and Marine. Before delivering a speech at the Masterton Town Hall he visited the Masterton District High School, the site of the recently moved Masterton Museum. He was clearly impressed with what he saw, as the local MP, George Sykes, forwarded a letter from Fisher saying he was very interested in the

visit to the school and the excellent museum attached to it. He offered a few mementoes in the shape of material he gathered while serving with the New Zealand forces in the South African War.

As well as the Prinsloo rifle, which he pointed out had been involved in several campaigns, he also donated some Kaffir bead and brass work, in the shape of women’s belts, necklets and wristlets. He apologised that they were not of great financial value but hoped they might serve as a relic of a war in which

New Zealand played her part in the defence of the British Empire.

It was not his first donation to a museum. In 1903, shortly after his return from South Africa, he donated two Kaffir clay figures, probably used as fetishes, to the Canterbury Museum in Christchurch.

Frank Fisher died in 1960, Philippus Prinsloo died in 1964.

Frank Fisher, son of Wellington mayor George Fisher.

The PC Prinsloo ri˜ e. PHOTOS/SUPPLIED

He Pounamu early nurture

Cherishing tamariki within nature

Snuggled into the foothills of the Tararua Ranges and bordered by both ngahere (forest) and Daleÿ eld farmland, is He Pounamu early nurture: a unique early childhood education centre catering for M°ori and non-M°ori tamariki (children).

“Our kaupapa (philosophy) is all about nurture: caring for ourselves, caring for the environment, and caring for others,” says Lauren Spicer, manuhaut˛ (chief executive) of He Pounamu.

Open since mid-2020 and licensed for 30 tamariki, including ten under-twos, He Pounamu has ten kaiako (M°ori and nonM°ori teachers) it can draw from. Lauren and husband Matt Spicer have lived on this acreage since 1999, raising their own four tamariki here. They remain immersed in the natural environment and feel blessed to be able to continue to share it with future generations.

“Living and working here grounds us all in wellbeing,” Lauren says. “Through a te a˝ M°ori lens, we draw on Papat˛°nuku (earth mother) for strength, energy, calmness, and resilience. When it rains, we feel the cleansing tears of Ranginui (sky father). We’re close to T°ne, the god of the forest and birds, as well as the gods of wild and cultivated food.”

Underpinning the operation of He Pounamu is the embrace of all that is distinctive about M°ori culture and identity, particularly wh°naungatanga (kinship and interrelationship).

With her Master of Education, Lauren is fascinated by the intersection between education and wellbeing within the context of wh°naungatanga. She’s preparing for a PhD on the topic. Her philosophy in action at He Pounamu is all about changing the discourse for tamariki – “they are born with mana, they are already amazing in a world that doesn’t always give that message, that has stripped entire former generations of their mana.”

Lauren’s message resonates with the kaiako who choose to work at He Pounamu. Lleyton Ihaka, Lauren’s nephew and already a father at a young age, has found his feet over the year he’s been there. “I love the environment. It’s very freeing for the tamariki.” As well as working part-time for He Pounamu, Lleyton has a part-time role as a teacher aide at ˙konga M°ori, a M°ori enrichment learning environment and programme, at Carterton School. He’s learning te reo M°ori on the job. Teacher training at Victoria Uni is on the cards.

Cheyenne Spicer, one of Lauren’s daughters and with one year of her teacher training to go, has worked for He Pounamu since it opened. “I share mum’s passion for kaupapa M°ori and biculturalism. And I love sharing ‘my place’ - the whenua where I grew up - with the tamariki here.” Her daughter Saydie (16 months old) is enrolled some of the time and Cheyenne loves being at He Pounamu with her and sharing her learning journey.

Liv Perry, fully trained as a teacher, has worked for He Pounamu for two and a half years. “I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else,” she says. “I’ve not come across any other early childhood education centre like this. The tamariki love it. There is something about the feeling here that is diˆ erent to other centres.”

What is diˆ erent? “The focus on the environment, wh°naungatanga, the connection to the land. There’s the

importance of promoting te reo M°ori and tikanga M°ori for everyone and a desire to support the revitalisation of te reo M°ori.”

Liv says, “the tamariki pick it up so quickly and we hear them speaking it through the day. These are the young people who will continue the revitalisation journey for te reo M°ori.”

Koriann O’Connor has been with He Pounamu from its inception. Once her daughter, Mila, is at school, she plans to begin training as a teacher. “It’s a blessing to be here as a teacher and a committed mum. I love watching my child’s pride

emerge within a te a˝ M°ori environment.” Koriann’s message to other parents is, “come and feel the environment and meet the people who work here. It’s inclusive, there’s no judgement, you will be accepted with open arms. People fall in love with He Pounamu straight away.”

“We celebrate the diˆ erences of tamariki at He Pounamu,” Lauren says. “We focus on their strengths. We build their mana. We awhi (cherish) them. I’m doing this for the next generation.”

“Education gives us the tools to power change.”

From left back: kaiako Liv, manuhaut˛ Lauren with granddaughter Saydie, and kaiako Cheyenne, Lleyton with Winiata, and Koriann with daughter Mila.

Manuhaut˛ Lauren Spicer, the inspiration behind He Pounamu, with granddaughter Saydie

Our purpose: is for older people / kaumātua to live a valued life in an inclusive society.

Our Vision: To be recognised as a leading contributor to the wellbeing of older persons / kaumātua in our Wairarapa community.

Our Mission: Helping, connecting and empowering older persons in Wairarapa.

The time of the bracken bashers

Māori had not used such implements for nearly a century.

Our Values: The work of Age Concern Wairarapa is based on these values, with special reference to older people, koroua and kuia Being responsive, Respecting all, Caring, Being committed to wellbeing.

Our Guiding Principles: are that our services are accessible, appropriate and affordable, inclusive, culturally appropriate and equally available to all.

There are several interesting Māori exhibits in the ‘Masterton Museum – A Cabinet of Curiosities’ display at Aratoi, including a pair of patu aruhe, presented to the museum in 1935.

For Māori , fern root was an important staple of their diet. The most commonly utilised was that of rauaruhe [bracken fern], a tough plant that grows to about two metres with reddish-brown stems.

Enduring Power of Attorney

An Enduring Power of Attorney appoints someone (called an attorney) to make decisions about you or your property while you are alive but are unable make decisions for yourself. This could be due to having an accident where there is head trauma or health issues eg: stroke or dementia. There is an Enduring Power of Attorney for property and one for personal care and welfare.

Get an enduring power of attorney (EPA)

Many people assume that if they lose the ability to make decisions for themselves, their partner or a close relative will legally be able to make decisions for them. In fact, the law doesn’t work like that. If there is no EPA then the family court will appoint someone on your behalf. This process can be very long and it is very expensive.

An attorney will:

• make sure that your bills are being paid.

• Manage your property

• Discuss matters with your medical team

The attorney’s main focus is to always act in your best interests, consult with anyone else you have named in the EPA, and with you when possible, keep records of any financial transactions.

They must not make decisions that benefit themselves or anyone other than you.

Have a conversation around how an enduring power of attorney can be safely allocated to a trusted person or organisation. An enduring power of attorney is a legal document that allows you to plan for the future.

You can set up an enduring power of attorney through a lawyer or Public Trust

It commonly grows in disturbed soils on the edge of forests, especially after fires. The district north of Greytown, Ahiaruhe, commemorates such a fire. Although it could be harvested year-round, it was most popularly gathered during late spring and early summer, preferably from plants that had been growing

for about three or four years. By this time their roots would have grown to about three centimetres in circumference.

They were dried, steeped in water, then cooked. The roots were then beaten by wooden pounders called patu aruhe to separate the flesh from the stringy fibres. Once separated, the paste was made into large cakes that would be sweetened with tut juice or New Zealand flax nectar.

In 1935, Joseph Iorns – grandson of Joseph and Sarah Masters – presented a pair of patu aruhe to the Masterton Museum, explaining that they had been discovered by one of his sons while building a dam on the ‘Te Whanga’ property of HO Toogood.

He said they were made of the native hardwood maire, and said they were in a remarkable state of conservation considering

Joseph Iorns was born in Wellington in 1851 and came to Masterton shortly after the 1855 earthquake. He was engaged in several business activities in Masterton, and later farmed at Opaki.

He was a fluent speaker of te reo Māori and, when young, assisted government agents in purchasing large block in the 40-Mile-Bush. His son, Bennet Iorns, was later a well-known local historian. HO Toogood was born in Tasmania and came to New Zealand when a young man, working on the Meredith family’s ‘Riversdale’ property. He purchased part of it, ‘Kohiwai’, which he farmed until the late 1920s, when he purchased part of Sir Walter Buchanan’s ‘Tupurupuru’ estate, naming it ‘Te Whanga’. He was on the Masterton County Council for 30 years.

He sold ‘Te Whanga’ to Pat Borthwick, who established an Angus stud.

Gareth Winter

Joseph and Ellice Iorns. PHOTOS/WAIRARAPA ARCHIVE

Patu aruhe.

The best way to ensure

life and performance

is

use quality genuine parts

A rare Rolls Royce

When we think of the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy, we picture motorcycles travelling at tremendous speed over country roads and through villages.

But it wasn’t always that way. The first Tourist Trophy races, between 1905 and 1907, were for cars, not motorcycles. A pair of Rolls-Royce Light 20s, the only true early sports cars built by the fledgling Rolls-Royce company, were second overall. The following year, the 4.1 litre 100kmh pair won outright.

It was a remarkable record. And even more remarkable is that, 118 years later, a rare example of the breed

now lives in Wairarapa, in the garage of Martinborough RollsRoyce enthusiast John Kennedy. The car, a 1905 four-cylinder RollsRoyce Light 20, is one of only two surviving examples of the model. It was the third such car to be built and was never raced.

When Rolls-Royce introduced their Silver Ghost model in 1907, the company ceased production of all other models, John said. No more than 40 examples of the Rolls-Royce Light, an early 20-horsepower model, were built. This car was originally restored in 1953 by Stanley Sears. It was acquired by John and Rae Kennedy in 1987 – and since then, the

engine and running gear have been completely overhauled. It is still capable of speeds of up to 60 mph (100 kmh).

The Kennedys are active and enthusiastic members of the Wairarapa branch of the Vintage Car Club.

The racey little Roller will be on display in Masterton on Sunday, April 23 – after 45 Rolls-Royce and Bentleys converge on Masterton for the Rolls-Royce and Bentley Club’s 20th anniversary tour. The teams, hailing from Cape Reigna to Bluff, will be in Wairarapa for four days, based at the Solway Park Hotel.

There there will be a public showing and Concours judging on the Sunday.

fuss of changing tiny

Kevin Ball

Lifestyle

Mementoes keep tank full

Among the items on show at the ‘Masterton Museum – A Cabinet of Curiosities’ exhibition at Aratoi is a selection of insignia from the Royal Tank Corps. They were presented by the family of Mastertonraised Murdoch McLennan and are mementoes of a remarkable war service. Murdoch McLennan was the son of Thomas McLennan and his wife Annie McKenzie. Thomas had been born in Nova Scotia and travelled to New Zealand as part of the Rev Norman McLeod’s religious movement at Waipu.

Losing his faith and leaving the sect, Thomas settled in Masterton, living at Kuripuni. A long-term sufferer of tuberculosis, it was reported that he re-joined the Presbyterian Church shortly before his death in 1889, aged 38.

Annie remarried Alfred Andrews and shifted to Nelson. Murdoch, who had commenced his schooling at Masterton School [later Central School] worked on passenger liners between London and New Zealand, before moving to the United States.

According to an American newspaper, he had been living in Ukiah,

California, and had been taking part in the United States-Mexico war when World War I broke out in 1914.

In 1917 he joined the British Army, serving first as a sapper, then as a private before becoming an Acting Staff Sergeant in May 1918. It was reported that, despite being a gunner in a British tank, he was the first person to take the American ‘Stars and Stripes’ flag over the top of the German lines.

His tank, which was named ‘Just You Listen’, was part of an attack launched in response to a German drive. Despite the flag suffering at least ten bullet holes, no one in the tank was injured. McLennan sent the flag

back to Ukiah where it was displayed in a shop window.

McLennan made his way back to New Zealand after being discharged from the British Army in May 1919. He entered Wakari Hospital on his arrival but was quickly transferred to the Auckland Military Hospital where he died on May 19 1920. Although newspaper reports suggested he had suffered a gas attack in France, his military papers record that he died from tuberculosis, the same disease that killed his father. His insignia was placed with the Masterton Museum, and McLennan’s name was added to the Masterton Cenotaph.

Murdoch McLennan’s insignia.

Be Warm this Winter with a Daikin

Jumbo crossword

Sudoku

Last week’s crossword solution

ACROSS: 1 Drugs, 4 Push the boat out, 11 Fed up, 14 Stout, 15 Pandora’s box, 16 Optician, 19 Algebra, 20 Money, 21 Pseudonym, 24 Grandiose, 26 Pantry, 27 Pacify, 31 Found, 32 Generous, 34 Incinerate, 38 Cabaret, 39 Stanza, 40 Uneasy, 41 Echo, 42 Tankard, 45 Parameters, 50 Embassy, 54 Ramp, 55 Twelve, 56 Amazon, 57 Cabinet, 60 Binoculars, 61 Lucky dip, 62 Ratio, 65 Putter, 66 Smacks, 67 Hamburger, 72 Enlarging, 73 Bumpy, 74 Escaped, 79 Metallic, 80 Traditional, 81 Evict, 82 Terry, 83 Scum of the earth, 84 Slang. DOWN: 2 Rattle, 3 Gouge, 5 Utah, 6 Hideous, 7 Harden, 8 Best, 9 Arousing, 10 Tiptop, 11 Fairy tales, 12 Dais, 13 Penalty, 17 Brand, 18 Surrenders, 22 Viper, 23 Finances, 25 Ransack, 26 Passage, 28 Sonata, 29 Cornea, 30 Tissue, 33 Extra, 35 Ebony, 36 Fear, 37 Cube, 42 Throb, 43 Nominate, 44 Dawdle, 45 Pilgrimage, 46 Rued, 47 Measles, 48 Trance, 49 Roomy, 51 Moat, 52 Agitate, 53 Scenic, 58 Screenplay, 59 Limbs, 63 Scenario, 64 Erase, 65 Plummet, 68 Amphora, 69 Rapids, 70 Turtle, 71 Deacon, 75 Anvil, 76 Star, 77 Edit, 78 Salt.

Insert the missing letters to complete ten words — five across the grid and five down. More than one solution may be possible.

Long, hard slog for region’s farmers

cent, from -71 per cent in December 2022.

Rural

Farmer confidence has begun to climb after taking a record plunge, Rabobank New Zealand says – but this does not completely reflect Wairarapa’s experience.

Despite the slight uptick, rural confidence remains deep in negative territory overall, with only one in 20 farmers holding an optimistic view on the prospects for the agricultural economy in the year ahead.

The latest Rabobank survey, completed late last month, found farmer confidence was up on the previous quarter, with the net confidence reading rising to -58 per

The survey found the number of farmers expecting conditions in the agricultural economy to improve in the coming 12 months had risen to five per cent [from four per cent in the previous quarter], while the percentage expecting conditions to worsen fell to 63 per cent [down from 75 per cent].

Thirty-one per cent were anticipating the agricultural economy to remain stable [up from 19 per cent previously].

How is the dairy industry faring?

Rabobank New Zealand chief executive Todd Charteris said the rise in confidence came despite incredibly challenging

market conditions for many of New Zealand’s primary producers during the early part of 2023.

Fonterra cut its 2022 to 2023 season forecast to a range of $8 to $8.60 per kg of milk solids –reducing the midpoint of the range by 20 cents from $8.50 to $8.30 per kilogramme.

Charteris said dairy farmers were now even more pessimistic about the broader agri-economy than they were last quarter.

“Demand out of China has been a little slower to return for dairy products than it has for other food products, and we’ve also seen increased global dairy supply act as a constraint on global dairy prices in the early part of

the year,” he said.

Featherston dairy farmer Aidan Bichan said the impact was more coming from the cost of supplies.

“It’s quite significant, and then you put that on top of a pretty tough season – we’re down about 8 or 10 per cent, on top of an already bad season last year.”

Bichan said the particularly low confidence in the dairy sector was a combination of a “very tough spring” and a significant increase in costs.

“Even though the milk price is one of the highest we’ve had, it’s still being offset.”

Wairarapa farmers were some of those affected by the Cyclone

Gabrielle, which Bichan – also a Rural Support Trust Trustee – said had left some farmers hurting.

Arable cropping struggling

Tulloch Contracting owner Andrew Tulloch said there had been a lot of lost or partly-lost crops after Cyclone Gabrielle and Cyclone Hale, and some farmers had lost up to half their annual income.

“It’s been a pretty miserable year if you’re an arable farmer.”

Tulloch said this was the wettest season he had ever seen, and he had been in business since 1988.

He said that in January and February, he and his team were only able to

harvest crops for about one-third of the month: “It was just raining all the time.”

Constant rain had left the soils wet, killing some crops and damaging others – while many were completely wiped out by the cyclones.

“Where the better crops grow, a lot of them are close to the rivers. If they’ve grown peas, they would have lost a percentage of the pea crops – they’ve either split and fallen out because they’ve been sitting in the rain for so long, or they’ve had flood damage.

“The grain weights have been light because the grain has been washed [by the rain], and it’s not mature,” Tulloch said.

He said he had to send his overseas staff back home early because there was no work for them.

Now, the aim is to end the season by planting as many crops as possible in a last-ditch effort not to let any farmers down.

Sheep and beef better off The survey also found there had been a notable improvement in sentiment among most sheep and beef farmers, largely because of increased demand for New Zealand’s red

meat exports from the important Chinese market.

Charteris said the increase came after the abandonment of China’s zero-covid policy late last year and the subsequent reopening of their food service sector.

“This has played a key role in the recent improvement in schedule prices for both beef and lamb, which have now bounced back after a dip late last year.”

Masterton sheep and beef farmer Mike Butterick said the situation for farmers had been a “Forest Gump situation – you never know what you’re going to get”.

Butterick said the prices were better than what they were forecast to be in December and January, when “things took a pretty quick turn into the gloomy territory”.

“On the whole, the product prices are better, but I think where we are really struggling is the cost of running our business.”

Butterick said although fertiliser costs had reduced, interest rates had risen rapidly.

“On-farm inflation is over double the general rate of inflation.”

Among farmers with

Masterton sheep and beef farmer Mike Butterick said although fertiliser costs had reduced, interest rates had risen rapidly.

COUNTRY LIVESTOCK

Report for Week

Ending 14 April 2023.

Feeder calves

Featherston dairy farmer Aidan Bichan: “The ÿ nancial impact on dairy farmers was coming more from costs.”

an optimistic outlook across all sectors, the survey found overseas markets [54 per cent], demand [34 per cent], and rising commodity prices [31 per cent] were the major sources of

Sheep

optimism.

For those with a pessimistic outlook, rising input costs [65 per cent] and government policy [53 per cent] continued to be the major concerns.

Angus x bull 4@50, Angus x bull 3@50, Angus x bull 3@60, Angus x bull 4@65, Angus x bull 1@205, Angus x bull red 1@95, Simmentel x bull 2 @235, Angus Heifer x 4@50, Angus Heifer x 3@50, Angus Heifer x 2@40, Angus Heifer x 1@80 Pigs

Weaner 2@65, 7@60

Wether 2@127, 1@70, Ewe 6@122, 5@67, 1@85, 2@123, 1@125, 10@132, Lambs 4@86, 2@90, 7@126, 5@131, 8@80, 4@69, 7@70, 2@130, 9@130, 4@50, 7@62, 12@62, 10@71

Cattle

Heifer Hereford X Weaner 2@435, Heifer Hereford X Weaner 2@500, Heifer Hereford X Weaner 2@450, Heifer Hereford X Weaner 3@460, Heifer Hereford x 4@650, Steer Hereford X 4@865

Cyclone Hale and Cyclone Gabrielle made for the wettest season Andrew Tulloch has ever seen.

Grace Prior grace.prior@age.co.nz

offer clients a free ve-year workmanship guarantee as their promise of quality work.

LAWN AND GARDEN SERVICES

MOBILE BLASTING MOTOR VEHICLES

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• Residential • Industrial Call Evan: 027 664 9507 evan@mobiledustfreeblasting.co.nz mobiledustfreeblasting.co.nz

ROOF PAINTING

Dean Terry (AREA MANAGER)

M: 021 100 5724 E: sales@chemgroup.co.nz

www.truckersessentials.co.nz www.homesafeproducts.co.nz

Contact Craig on 0274 251 313 or 06 304 7931 grif ths8@gmail.com www.wairarapapainting.co.nz

229 6757.

Dance for Beginners Kiwi Hall, Featherston, 6.30-7.30pm. Call Antonia Blincoe [021] 105-7649. Carrington Bowling Club 57 High Street, Carterton,1pm for 1.30 pm start. Call Pauline Hodgson [027] 406-672. Carterton Community Choir 7.159pm, at Carterton School, Holloway St. Call [022] 373-4299. Carterton District Historical Society 142 High St North, Carterton, open 2-4pm or by appointment. Call Vivienne 379-5564 or email carterton.hist.soc@gmail. com Danzability Class 11am-noon, at Studio 73, Greytown. Call physio. rachel.horwell@gmail.com or [022]

Seniors Wairarapa Call

373 646 for an appointment. Martinborough St Andrew’s Church, 9.30-11am; Featherston Featherston Community Centre, 1.30-3.30pm. Fareham Creative Space Open studio, 10am-3pm, 80 Underhill Rd, Featherston. Email: registrations@ farehamcreativespace.nz

Featherston Menz Shed 61

Fitzherbert St, open from 6.30pm.

Food Market Food trucks, 4.30-7pm outside the Masterton Town Hall, rain or shine.

GirlGuidingNZ Carterton Pippins, 5-7 years, 4.15-5.30pm. Carterton Brownies, 7-9½ years, 6-7.30pm. Call Sharon [021] 033-0550.

Justice of the Peace Greytown

Library 11am-1pm; Martinborough

Library 11am-1pm.

Justice of the Peace

Parkinson’s Exercise Class 1.30pm, at the Wairarapa Boxing Academy, Dixon St. Call Roslyn [027] 264-8623.

Patient Activity Programme At Hospice Wairarapa, 59 Renall St, Masterton, 10am-1pm. Call Kirsten

399 1050.

Red Star Table Tennis Club 5-7pm at Red Star Sports Association 10

Herbert St, Masterton. Call Peter [027]

566-4664 or Brian 377-4066.

Ruamahanga Club Cards – 500, 1-4pm, at Wairarapa Services Club, Essex St, Masterton.

Social Learners Bridge 1-3.30pm, Featherston Community Centre. Call Barbara [06] 304-9208.

Steady As You Go Falls Prevention and Balance Class, 9.30am, Senior Citizens’ Hall, Cole St, Masterton. Call Age Concern [06] 377-0066.

The University of the 3rd AGE

[U3A] South Wairarapa Current Affairs group meet in the Events Hall of the Roseneath Lifecare and Village, Carterton 9.30-11am. Call convener Paul Mallinson [021] 109-4652.

Thursday Morning Bikers Meet at the fountain at the Queen Elizabeth Park entrance, 9.30am. Contact David [021] 246-0295.

Wairarapa Fern and Thistle Pipe Band Weekly practice, Masterton Brass Bandrooms, Park Ave, Masterton. Email fernandthistle21@ gmail.com

Wairarapa Model Aero Club 9am-

noon, at the Masterton Aerodrome. Whakaoriori Shufflers Line dancing, Red Star clubrooms, Herbert St, Masterton, intermediate, 1-2.30pm. Call 377-5518 or 377-1135.

FRIDAY, APRIL 21

Aratoi Burn It All Down to May 14; Simon King: Shades and Echoes to May 21; Print Council of New Zealand to June 4; Masterton Museum: A Cabinet of Curiosities to July 2023. Carterton Club and RSA Broadway

ANZAC-themed sing-along, fundraiser for the club, 7pm, donations on the night, music by Lance Naysmith.

Carterton Craft Market Mon-Sat: 9am-4pm, Sun: 10am-3pm, 25 High St North, Carterton. Call Desley [027]

Call Sara Uruski [0274] 474-959.

Dance Fit At Carrington Park, Carterton, at 6-7pm. Text dance groove to [022] 321-2643.

Greytown Music and Movement

For pre-schoolers, 10am, at St Luke’s Hall, Main St. Contact email admin@ stlukesgreytown.co.nz

Fareham Creative Space Open studio, 10am-3pm, 80 Underhill Rd, Featherston. Email: registrations@ farehamcreativespace.nz

Free Community Fit Club 6am and 11am, Carrington Park, Carterton. All ages, all fitness levels. Call Di [027]

498-7261.

Justice of the Peace Carterton library noon-2pm; Masterton District Court 11am-1pm; Eketahuna Library

1.30-4.30pm.

Kids Song & Story 9.30-10.30am, social hour during school terms for preschool children and their caregivers, Epiphany Church hall, High St, Masterton. Pam Thomas 378-6740.

Masterton Croquet Club Golf Croquet 9.15am behind the Hosking Garden in the park. Call Russell Ward

377-4401.

Masterton Masters Swimming Club Club night 5.30-6.30pm, Trust House Recreation Centre back pool. Call Stu [027] 295-4189 or Lucy [021]

0204-4144. Moana Sing-A-Long Movie Fundraiser 3pm, Regent 3 Cinemas.

Admission includes a drink, popcorn, and facepainting from 2pm. All proceeds go to Hōkai Tahi Charitable Trust. Book tickets at info@hokaitahi.

nz

Needlework & Craft Drop-in

10am-noon, Featherston Community Centre. Call May [06] 308-6912 or Virginia [06] 308-8392.

Wairarapa Kids Choir Choral

singing for children aged seven years up, 3.50-4.50pm, Courthouse, Holloway St, Carterton, during school terms. Call Jill [027] 347-5891.

Wairarapa Stop Smoking Service Quit Clinic at Whaiora 9am-noon.

Free support available across Wairarapa. Call Whaiora 0800 494

246.

Cobblestones Early Settlers Village Open 10am-4pm seven days. History comes alive with six heritage buildings, carts and carriages, set in two acres of beautiful gardens, bring a picnic to enjoy.

Featherston Heritage Museum Behind the Featherston Library and Information Centre. Sat/Sun 10am2pm, other times by arrangement.

Call Elsa [021] 263-9403.

Featherston Weekly Market: 8am2pm, 33 Fitzherbert St. Greytown Menz Shed 9am-noon.

Call Paul Dodge [021] 0262-6595.

Justice of the Peace Service centre available at Masterton Library, 10am-noon.

Lions Book Sale 9am-1pm, next to Wairarapa Farmers Market, Solway Showgrounds, Judds Rd, Masterton, under the grandstand.

Martinborough Museum Open Sat/ Sun at No 7 The Square, 10.30am-

2.30pm. Donation/koha appreciated.

Masterton Croquet Club Association Croquet 9.15am and 12.45pm behind Hosking Garden in the park. Call Carl Redvers 378-7109.

Parkrun Weekly 5km run/walk.

Measured, timed, free. 8am start, at the Woodside end of the Greytown rail trail. Info: parkrun.co.nz/

greytownwoodsidetrail

Saturday in the Park Food trucks by the Skate Park, QE Park 10am-2pm, rain or shine.

Tinui Craft Corner and Museum

Open Sat/Sun 10am-4pm. Call Lesley Hodgins [06] 372-6433.

Toy Library Masterton 10am-1pm, 365 Queen St. Featherston 14 Wakefield St, 10am-noon.

Wairarapa Cancer Society

Supportive Care Services Free services for anyone needing support after a cancer diagnosis. Call (06) 378-8039.

Wairarapa Embroiderers Guild At the Ranfurly Club Rooms, Chapel St, Masterton. Call Billie Sims 378-2949 or Jenny 377-0859.

Wairarapa Farmers’ Market 9am-

SUNDAY, APRIL 23

Carterton Farmers Market Memorial Square, 9am-12.30pm. Call [027] 663-9011.’

Featherston Menz Shed 61 Fitzherbert St, open from 1pm. Masterton Park Bowling Club Queen Elizabeth Park, bowls roll up at 1pm, names in by 12.45pm. Call 377-5458.

Masterton Petanque Club Club day

2pm, in Queen Elizabeth Park. Call Myrna Lane 377-3064. Masterton Toy Library 10am-1pm,

365 Queen St.

Narcotics Anonymous Featherston Community Centre, 7-9pm. Call 0800

628 632

Rotary Sunday Market 7-11.30am, Essex St car park. Contact thehodsons@xtra.co.nz

South Wairarapa Pipe Band Practice at St John’s church hall, Featherston, 4-6pm. To confirm time please call [027] 628-5889 or [027]

453-0182.

Wairarapa Model Aero Club 9amnoon, at the Masterton Aerodrome.

MONDAY,

APRIL 24

Art for Everyone Featherston Community Centre, 7-9pm. Call Sandie [021] 157-4909.

Carterton Alcoholics Anonymous

8pm, Salvation Army Community Rooms, 210 High St. Call Bob [021]

042-2947 or Martin [06] 372-7764.

Carterton Community Toy Library Events Centre, Holloway St, Mon-Sat during CDC Library hours.

Carterton Scottish Dance Club

7.30pm, at Carterton School Hall, Holloway St. No partner required. Call Elaine 377-0322.

Carterton Food Bank 10-11am MonFri at Haumanu House. Call 379-4092.

CCS Disability Action Wairarapa Office 36 Bannister St, Masterton, 10am-1pm Mon-Fri. Call 378-2426 or 0800 227-2255. Citizens Advice Bureau Free and confidential advice, Mon-Fri 9am4pm, 43 Perry St, Masterton. Call 377-0078 or 0800 367-222.

Epilepsy Support Group 11am at the Salvation Army office, 210 High St South, Carterton. Call 0800 20 21 22. Featherston Music Club 7-9pm. Call Shaun O’Brien [027] 672-6249. Free Community Fit Club 6am and 11am, Carrington Park, Carterton. Call Di [027] 498-7261.

GirlGuidingNZ Masterton Rangers, 12½-18 years, 6.30-8pm. South Wairarapa Guides [Greytown], 9-12½ years, 6-8pm. Call Sharon [021] 033-0550.

Hospice Wairarapa Support Services Free of charge for anyone dealing with a terminal illness. Call [06] 378-8888.

Indoor Bowls: 1.30pm, Club Carterton, Broadway, Carterton. Call [027] 645-0905.

Justice of the Peace Masterton CAB 9.30am-12.30pm.

Wairarapa Services Club Cards –500, 1.30pm, at the club, Essex St, Masterton. Wairarapa Stop Smoking Service Call a Quit Coach based at Whaiora 0800 494 246.

TUESDAY, APRIL 25

Caregivers Programme Caring for your loved one who is unwell, at Hospice Wairarapa, 59 Renall St, Masterton. Call Kirsten 399-1050. Clareville Badminton Club Main Stadium at Clareville, 7.30pm -9pm. Call Steve [027] 333-3975. Carrington Bowling Club 57 High Street, Carterton,1pm for 1.30 pm start. Call Pauline Hodgson [027] 406-672.

Carterton District Historical Society 142 High St North, Carterton, open 2-4pm or by appointment. Call Vivienne 379-5564 or email carterton.hist.soc@gmail. com Central Indoor Bowls Club 7.30pm, Hogg Crescent hall. Call Mathew or Graeme 378-7554.

Chair Exercise Gentle chair exercises, 2-2.45pm, at St John’s Hall, Greytown. Dance Fitness 6.30-7.30pm, at Fareham House Hall Featherston. Call Justine [0204] 105-2830. Digital Seniors Wairarapa Call 0800 373 646 for an appointment.

years] 3.45-5pm. Call Chrissy Warnock 372-7646.

Justice of the Peace Masterton CAB 11am-1pm. Knit and Natter 3pm, Wairarapa Community Centre, Perry St; 7pm, Te

Awhina Cameron Community House, 2 Stuart Cres, Masterton. Other handcrafts encouraged.

Paint/draw From live model,10am-

noon, at Masterton Art Club, Victoria St. Call Elissa Smith [027] 470-6528.

Mah-jong Carterton RSA, 1pm. Call Margaret 379-8681.

Masterton Alcoholics Anonymous

7.30pm, St Matthew’s Church Hall,

35 Church St. Call Anne 378-2338 or

David [021] 116-5505.

Masterton Croquet Club Golf

Croquet 9.15am behind the Hosking Garden in the park. Call Russell Ward

377-4401.

Masterton Senior Citizens and Beneficiaries Association Meet for

social indoor bowls, 500 cards, or a

chat 1-3pm, Senior Citizens hall, Cole

St. Call Ngaire 377-0342.

Masterton Toy Library 10am-1pm, at rear of Masterton YMCA, 162 Dixon St, Masterton. Red Star Table Tennis Club 9amnoon at Red Star Sports Association

10 Herbert St, Masterton. Call Peter [027] 566-4664 or Brian 377-4066.

Scallyrag Border Morris Dancing

Wairarapa Services Club Cards –Euchre, 1pm, at the club, Essex St, Masterton. Woops A Daisies Leisure Marching Team practice 4-5pm, at the Trust House Rec Centre Stadium. Call Cheryl [06] 370-1922 or [027] 6976974.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26

AA Meeting At 7.30pm, Epiphany church hall, High St, Solway, Masterton. Call [027] 557-7928. Athletics Wairarapa Club night, 5.45-7pm, Colin Pugh Sports Bowl, Masterton, all ages and abilities

welcome.

Cards “500”, 1.15-4.15pm, at the Carterton Club. Call Barbara 379-6582 or Val 379-8329.

Carterton Cycle Group An informal group of ‘leg power’ and e-power cyclists, from Belvedere Rd [weather permitting] for 20km or 40-60km rides. Call Irene [027] 634-9167 or Lesley [021] 299-6389.

Dance Fitness 9.30-11am, preschoolers with parents or caregivers, music and movement and art, at Fareham House Hall Featherston. Call Justine [0204] 105-2830.

Digital Seniors Wairarapa Call 0800 373 646 for an appointment. Masterton Citizens Advice, 10-noon.

Masterton Park Bowling Club Queen Elizabeth Park, bowls roll up at 1pm, names in by 12.45pm. Call 377-5458.

Masterton Croquet Club Association Croquet 9.15am and 12.45pm behind the Hosking Garden in the park. Call

Carl Redvers 378-7109.

Parkinson’s Singing Group 10am, at the South Wairarapa Workingman’s Club, Main St, Greytown. Call Marguerite Chadwick 379-5376.

Rangatahi to Rangatira Youth Group Join us for sports, food, and leadership, Carterton Events Centre.

Text “R2R” to [027] 742-2264.

Recreational Walking Group

9.30am, Essex St car park. Call Ann Jackson, 372-5758, or Ann Duckett, 378-8285.

Scrabble Club 1-4pm, Senior Citizens Hall, 8 Cole St, Masterton. Phone Sue McRae [027] 449-0601. Silver Ukulele Club 1-3pm, Featherston Community Centre. Call Jan [06] 308-8556.

South Wairarapa Caregivers

Programme Caring for your loved one who is unwell, at a café in South Wairarapa. Call Kirsten 399-1050. Soulway Cooking and Crafts 10amnoon, High St, Masterton. Call Nikki Smith 370-1604 [church office].

Te Runga Scouts Cubs, 6-7.30pm, 45 Harley St, Masterton.

7.30-8.30pm, at St Matthew’s Church, Church St, Masterton.

787-8558. Carterton Senior Citizens 12.303.30pm, play cards, Rummikub and Scrabble, at the old courthouse next to the library. Cloth Collective Sewing Workshop 10am-2pm, Kiwi Hall Supper Room.

Walk and Talk Meet outside Dish

Cafe, First St, Masterton, 9.30am.

SATURDAY, APRIL 22

Carrington Bowling Club 57 High Street, Carterton, 1pm for 1.30 pm start. Call Pauline Hodgson [027] 406-672.

1pm, Solway Showgrounds, Judds Rd, Masterton, under the grandstand and nearby redwood tree.

Wairarapa Genealogy Branch Family History Research Rooms, 5 Church St, Masterton, 10am-noon.

Women’s Self Defence:With Dion, 9am, band rotunda, Queen Elizabeth Park. Call [020] 4124-4098.

Clareville Indoor Bowls 7pm at Tom Bubb Lounge, A&P complex. Call Colleen 379-8399.

Creative Hands Programme At Hospice Wairarapa, 59 Renall St, Masterton, 10am-noon. Call Kirsten 399-1050. East Indoor Bowling Club 7pm. Call Julie 377-5497 or George 378-9266.

Church. Masterton 1.30pm, Senior Citizens’ Hall, Cole St. Call Age Concern [06] 377-0066. The Dance Shed 450A Belvedere Rd, Carterton. Beginners Linedance Class: 6-7pm. Linedance Intermediate Class: 7.30-8.30pm. Call Wendy [027] 319-9814. Troubadour Music Group 6-8pm, Wairarapa Community Centre, 41 Perry St, Masterton. Contact Stefan [027] 226-6019.

Carterton 3 Mile, 66 High St, 9.30-11.30am; Greytown Greytown Library, 1.30-3.30pm. Fareham Creative Space Open studio, 10am-3pm, 80 Underhill Rd, Featherston. Email: registrations@ farehamcreativespace.nz Featherston Amateur Wrestling Club During school terms. Classes are weight and skill dependent; Beginners, 5-9 years, 5.30-6.15pm; 10 years+ [including adults] 6.157.30pm. Featherston Menz Shed 61 Fitzherbert St, open from 10am. Featherston Wahine Singers 7-8.30pm, Featherston Community Centre. Call Susan [021] 246-4884. Free Community Fit Club 11am, Carrington Park, Carterton. All ages, all fitness levels. Call Di [027] 498-7261.

Free Literacy and Numeracy

Classes At Literacy Aotearoa Masterton. Call Carol [022] 524-5994 or visit us at 340 Queen Street, Masterton. GirlGuiding Masterton Pippins [5-7

7-8 pm at the Auditorium, Kuranui College, Greytown. Contact

Alison [021] 111-1894 or email

scallyragmorris@gmail.com

Social Bridge At South Wairarapa Workingmen’s Club, 1.30-3.30pm. Call Lesley [021] 299-6389. South Wairarapa Badminton Club Featherston Sports Stadium, Underhill Rd, 7.30pm, rackets available.

South Wairarapa Workingmen’s Club Games afternoon. Call Doff 304-9748. Taoist Tai Chi 6-7.30pm at St Mark’s Church Hall, 185 High St, Carterton.

The Book Lovers Corner 3.304.30pm on Arrow FM {92.7FM] and available online, https://www. arrowfm.co.nz/programmes/ show/94/the-book-lovers-corner-/ Wairarapa Genealogy Branch

Family History Research Rooms, 5 Church St, Masterton, 1-3.30pm. Wairarapa Modern Jive Carterton School hall, 7.15-7.30pm

Intermediate workshop; 8-8.45pm

Beginners class. Contact Lance [021] 134-5661.

Free Classes Literacy, language and numeracy for adult learners. Call Literacy Aotearoa 377-4214. Greytown Menz Shed 9am-noon. Call Paul Dodge [021] 0262-6595. GirlGuidingNZ Masterton Brownies, 7-9½ years, 5.30-7pm. Call Sharon [021] 033-0550.

Healing Rooms Confidential prayer for healing or any situation, 2-4pm, at St Matthews Church Hall, Church St, Masterton, no appointment necessary. Call [027] 245-2819.

Heart of Arts Wairarapa A community gallery, 47 High St North, Carterton, Wed-Fri, 10am-4pm, weekends, 10am-2pm. Juesday Art 10am-12.30pm, AOG Church, Birdwood St, Featherston.

Call Julia [06] 308-8109.

Justice of the Peace Masterton CAB noon-2pm.

Kiddie Gym For 0-3-year-olds, 9.3011am, at St David’s Church, corner High and Victoria Sts, Carterton. Call Lorna or Abby 379-8325. Masterton Art Club 10am-2pm, also print on Fridays, at 12 Victoria St. Call Elissa [0274] 706-528.

Funeral Directors

People you can DEPEND ON

ROBERT MILNE FUNERAL DIRECTOR

Funeral Directors

Queen Elizabeth Park Sports

Public Notices

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Wairarapa Quilters

Courses and Seminars

Looking for Hope?

Not sure what you believe?

Come along, attend a FREE Christianity Explored course at Masterton Reformed Church, 37 Herbert St. Course starts Monday 1 st May, and will run weekly for 8 sessions

Locally

For

Public Notices

ANZAC DAY DAWN SERVICE MASTERTON

Tuesday 25th April 2023

An invitation is extended to all Ex -Service, Servicemen and Women, Service organisations and the general public to participate in the Masterton ANZAC Day Dawn Parade

5.30am All ex service personnel, service personnel and service organisations assemble outside Masterton War Memorial Stadium / Trust House Recreation Centre, Dixon Street. Those unable to march and the general public are asked to assemble at the Cenotaph at Queen Elizabeth Park.

5.45am Parade marches south along Dixon Street to the Cenotaph in Queen Elizabeth II Park.

5.55am Service at Cenotaph commences.

On completion of the service, the parade will depart the park via Park Street, Queen Street, Jackson Street and Chapel Street into Essex Street, where the parade will fall out.

Participants are asked to dress according to weather conditions. Please bring a torch as lighting will be minimal.

Light supper will be provided every week at 7pm, course sessions will run from 7.30 9pm

Absolutely anyone is welcome! RSVP to Elise on 0274 627 064 for catering purposes or to ask any questions

MEETING SCHEDULE.

Meeting location: Meetings are at the Carterton Events Centre.

Agendas: Meeting agendas are available for public inspection two days prior to the meeting at the Carterton Library and on the Council’s website.

Attendance at meetings:

• You can attend the public section of Council and most committee meetings in person. Meetings are also uploaded to YouTube within 48 hours of the meeting.

• Members of the public who wish to participate in a public forum must register their intention with the Democratic Services Of cer on 06 379 4030, or by email to demservices@cdc.govt. nz at least one full day before the meeting date.

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE OF NEW BORE AT SOLDIERS MEMORIAL PARK RESERVE, GREYTOWN

Under clause 43 of the Soldiers Memorial Park Reserve Management Plan 2008, Wellington Water seeks approval for the establishment and operation of a new bore and pump in Soldiers Memorial Park Reserve, Greytown.

This work secures the reliability and consistency of the Greytown water supply into the future.

You are invited to comment on this proposal by email to cristo.umanzor@ghd.com or by post to GHD Centre Level 3, 27 Napier Street, Freemans Bay, Auckland, 1011, for the attention of Cristo Umanzor. Please use the submissions form available digitally at www.wellingtonwater.co.nz/projects/memorial-parkwater-treatment-upgrades/, or physical copies are available from Council offices.

Submissions must be received by no later than the 17th May 2023. Information on the proposed project is available at www.wellingtonwater.co.nz/projects/memorial-park-watertreatment-upgrades/

For more information please contact Cristo Umanzor at GHD on cristo.umanzor@ghd.com.

ANZAC DAY

TUESDAY 25 APRIL 2023

FEATHERSTON

There will be two services in Featherston on ANZAC Day, to which residents and visitors are cordially invited:

Dawn Service (5.45am) – Cross of Sacrifice, Featherston Cemetery. Please be assembled by 5.40am.

Civic Service (9.00am) – Featherston War Memorial on the corner of Fitzherbert (SH2) and Fox Streets. Please be assembled by 8.55am.

Anyone intending to lay a wreath at either service is asked to contact the RSA on 022 165 3521 no later than 12.00pm, Monday 24 April.

Peter Jackson, President Featherston Memorial RSA

GREYTOWN

The Greytown RSA Committee will conduct a public Commemoration Service at the WWII Memorial, Kuratawhiti Street, at 10.30am on ANZAC Day, 25 April. This will be followed by a short civic service at the South Wairarapa Workingmen’s Club. Residents and visitors are cordially invited to attend.

Susan von Pein, Secretary Greytown RSA

MARTINBOROUGH

Residents and visitors of Martinborough and District are invited to attend the Dawn Parade and Service

The parade will form up at 5.45am outside Pain and Kershaws on Jellicoe Street and move to the Square at 5.55am for the Service and laying of the wreaths. Due to the early start a torch is advisable.

Coffee and tea will be available in the Supper Room of the Waihinga Centre following the Service.

Pam Colenso, Secretary Martinborough RSA

LAKE FERRY

The Lake Ferry service will be returning to its full service, with involvement from all of our iwi, schools and local residents. The parade will gather at the flagpole at 10.15am for a 10.30am start. Following the service there will be a community BBQ and sports at the Lake Ferry Domain for all whanau and tamariki. All welcome.

Nigel Gattsche, Secretary

LAKE FERRY Ratepayer and Residents Association

CARTERTON DISTRICT COUNCIL

Ph 370 1110 35-37 Lincoln Rd, Masterton www.wairarapafunerals.co.nz

Firewood

Work

Public Notices

SOUTH WAIRARAPA DISTRICT COUNCIL

NOTICE TO CLOSE ROADS TO VEHICULAR TRAFFIC

Pursuant to the Transport (Vehicular Traffic Road Closure)

Regulations 1965, notice is hereby given that the South Wairarapa District Council, for the purpose of the Greytown ANZAC Parade 2023, will close the following roads to ordinary vehicular traffic for the period indicated hereunder.

During the period of closure, vehicles will need to take these alternative routes:

• From Carterton, turn left onto Jellicoe St, turn right onto East St, turn right onto Church St and return back onto SH2 (Main St)

• From Featherston, turn left onto Hastwell St, turn right onto West St, turn right on to North St and return back on to SH2 (Main St).

Roads to be closed:

Public Notices

SOUTH WAIRARAPA DISTRICT COUNCIL

NOTICE TO CLOSE ROADS TO VEHICULAR TRAFFIC

Pursuant to the Transport (Vehicular Traffic Road Closure)

Regulations 1965, notice is hereby given that the South Wairarapa District Council, for the purpose of the Featherston ANZAC Day Civic Service, will close the following roads to ordinary vehicular traffic for the period indicated hereunder.

During the period of closure, vehicles will need to take these alternative routes:

• Traffic travelling north or south on Fitzherbert Street seeking to turn into Fox Street East may do so at the intersection of Fitzherbert/Wallace Streets or, alternatively, at the intersection of Fitzherbert/Waite Streets.

• Traffic travelling north on Wallace Street (from Revans Street), seeking to reach Fitzherbert Street may do so via the intersection of Fitzherbert/Wallace Streets.

• Traffic travelling west on Fox Street (from Donald Street), seeking to reach Fitzherbert Street may do so via the intersections of Fox/Wallace Streets and Wallace/Fitzherbert Streets.

Roads to be closed:

• Partial Closure of Fox Street, Featherston (between Fitzherbert Street and Wallace Streets) in the vicinity of the war memorial

Period of closure:

• Tuesday 25 April, 7.30am to 10.30am

Stefan Corbett

Group Manager Partnerships & Operations

• State Highway 2, Main Street, Greytown, between Jellicoe Street and Hastwell St

Period of closure:

• Tuesday 25th April 2023, 10.30am – 12pm

There is no postponement date for this event, if the event is unable to go ahead, they will cancel until next year

Stefan Corbett Group Manager Partnerships & Operations

Rogue Linen Sustainable Fashion NZ available at Hey Jude Boutique

Public Notices

PROPOSAL TO CLOSE ROADS TO ORDINARY VEHICULAR TRAFFIC

PURSUANT to the Transport (Vehicular Traffic Road Closure) Regulations 1965, notice is hereby given that the Carterton District Council proposes to close a part of Tea Creek Road for the purpose of a speed event, the Tea Creek Gravel Hillclimb for the period indicated hereunder:

Period of Closure: Sunday 30th April 2023 7.00am – 7.00pm

Roads affected:

Tea Creek Road 2kms from the intersection of Tea Creek Road with Maungatarere Road to the end of Tea Creek Road

The closed section will be adequately and properly signposted, at the beginning of the closed road, being manned with radio communication to allow the passage of through traffic in an emergency.

WAIRARAPA TIMES-AGE DELIVERY PERSON REQUIRED MASTERTON RUN

Early morning start 6 days a week

We are seeking a fit and reliable person to deliver our newspaper into our readers letterboxes. You will need your own reliable vehicle.

CONTACT NICK on 027 251 0616 or email nicolkelly71@gmail.com

Employment ADMINISTRATOR

We are seeking a suitable candidate for the role of Administrator for the Wairarapa Family Violence Intervention Group (Te Tatau Pounamu).

This role is for 25 hours per week, with the potential for some of that time to be worked from home.

This is a unique opportunity if you have a passion for family and whanau well-being, prevention of family violence & the development of safe communities.

You will need the ability to work as part of a small team, have excellent communication and computer skills, be self -motivated and able to work with a minimum of supervision.

phoning (06) 377 0933 or emailing contact@changewairarapa.org.nz

Closing Date: 5.00pm Friday 28th April

P˜pe Ora Parenting Support Programme Term 2, 2023

Malili, Teina and

21st June Birthing optionsCelebrating Matariki

28th June Make your own muka tie for your baby

This programme may be subject to change

Car Seat Safety with Holly Hullena

Make your own baby poi with Chloe Wihongi

Maria, our P˜pe Ora Kaiawhina, are looking forward to welcoming all hap° m˛m˛, new born m˛m˛ and wh˛nau to POPS