in Touch out West Issue No.26 (December 2006)
Delivered to 16,500 homes throughout Hamilton’s western suburbs
Who should run the buses? P.2
Aberdeen Blue player, Jacob Goodwin, enjoying some great Summer Touch Rugby
Photo: Shaun Libeau
West Hamilton Pharmacy NewNawton Mall, Nawton. Phone 846 3121. Facsimile 846 3165
CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE
If you are, or ever have been, a smoker, and you have difficulty breathing, have a cough, increased mucus (phlegm) and wheeze, you probably have a condition known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A number of breathing problems come under the general term of COPD – they include chronic (long-term) severe asthma, chronic bronchitis and emphysema. All these conditions result in breathing tubes that have lost their stretchiness so they become damaged permanently. The tubes also become swollen and sticky with mucus, and get blocked. It is hard to breathe and a lot of extra energy is needed to breathe. Smoking is the main cause of the various conditions that result in COPD – only rarely are pollutants such as industrial dusts, or an inherited genetic deficiency, the cause. Over 200,000 New Zealanders suffer from COPD, and many more will be diagnosed in the future as past smoking habits catch up with them. COPD cannot be cured, but the symptoms can be controlled and further lung damage can be prevented. Self Care pharmacists advise smokers, and people with COPD symptoms, to see their doctor for a correct diagnosis. “The symptoms are similar to asthma, but treatment and management is different. The sooner you gain the correct diagnosis and take the right action, the better chance you have of slowing-down the disease’s progression and keeping it under control.” The other thing to do straight away is to quit smoking. “Not only will this mean you get the greatest benefit from the other things you do to control your condition”, say Self Care pharmacists, “but also it will stop further lung damage. See our Quit Smoking fact card for advice and information about quitting.” Second-hand smoke also is harmful so try to avoid it. Regular exercise is important to keep your muscles strong, improve your breathing and allow you to continue doing simple everyday activities, like shopping, dressing and cooking.
Walking is ideal but your doctor or physiotherapist will assist you with exercise activities that are right for you. As COPD gets worse, breathing gets harder and takes more energy so it is important to do special breathing control exercises. Your physiotherapist will teach you what these are. With COPD, energy levels drop and your appetite decreases, yet it takes more energy just to do simple tasks. Having good nutrition is critical, and skipping meals is not a good idea. Eat small amounts often, and eat foods high in energy and protein. Self Care pharmacists recommend that you pre-prepare meals when you feel up to it – for the days when you don’t feel like cooking. “Buying ready-made meals that just need heating is also sensible”, they suggest. On the other hand, if you have put on weight because you have difficulty exercising, then you need to lose weight. “Our Weight Loss Self Care fact card has good tips for losing weight, but a dietician also will provide you with the right advice to meet your specific needs. Medicines for COPD – usually as inhaler (‘puffer’) devices - help to relieve symptoms and to treat ‘flare-ups’ of breathing difficulties. It is very important to use these inhalers correctly, and that takes practise. Ask your Self Care pharmacist or doctor to check your technique so you know you are getting the most benefit. “Finally”, suggest Self Care pharmacists, “make your life easier. Conserve energy and find simple ways to do things (shower and dress sitting down). Keep relaxed, and stress to a minimum. See our COPD fact card for more information.”
Te Rapa, Pukete, St Andrews, Beerescourt, Whitiora, Maeroa, Frankton, Dinsdale, Templeview, Nawton, Western Heights, Rotokauri, Crawshaw, Brymer
COMMUNITY PROFILE Elsie’s 27 Sandy Pokaia
Sandy and her husband Tame have lived in West Hamilton for the past 20 years. They like this part of Hamilton because of its closeness to the central city and the feeling of community connectedness in the area. Having grown up in Melville, Sandy, one of five children, attended Melville Primary, Intermediate and High Schools as well as spending one year at Church College. Sandy and Tame have one daughter and 4 grandchildren all of whom live in Hamilton. Their eldest grandchild Hinitamariki Pokaia has lived with them since she was born 8 years ago. It is so special for us to have our mokopuna with us says Sandy. She is a wonderful part of our family and brings us so much joy. Hinitamariki attends Aberdeen School, the same school her mother attended 22 years earlier. Sandy believes in giving children magical experiences to take with them as treasured memories into their adult lives. One of the ways she does this is to make birthday’s extra special, by creating wonderful birthday cakes, games, decorations and special themes
for her granddaughters birthday party every year. When not spending time with her mokopuna Sandy does all types of crafts from knitting to making Christmas decorations. She also has a strong interest in art and loves to visit galleries and exhibitions. Sandy worked for 12 years at Waikato Hospital as a physiotherapy assistant before changing direction and working in Iwi Health for 10 years at Te Rununga O Kirikiriroa and Te Kohao Health. For the past 18 months she has been a part of the Social Services Waikato team as a Community Advisor for Maori. Her current job involves community development by strengthening and supporting not for profit Maori organizations in the Waikato area. It’s a good fit for Sandy who values community cohesion and has a passion for working with Maori Iwi. She is a great supporter of community events particularly those held at the Western Community Centre, and is very impressed with the new Community Centre building especially the parking facilities which she believes are a pivotal part of community engagement. The major changes Sandy has seen in Hamilton over the past few years are the increase of large housing developments and the amount of traffic congestion on the roads. She likes living in the heart of the Waikato because Hamilton is still small enough to feel connected to the people.
For most Hamilton residents, transport issues, especially traffic congestion on key routes, are the main points they want to see their City Council tackling. In response to that, under Mayor Michael Redman, the Council set up a new Transport Committee, tasked with working on all areas of transport, and adopted the Access Hamilton transport strategy - designed to get the city moving again. While plenty of traffic and transport improvements have happened in the last two years, the City has been frustrated in two areas by outside organisations who are not accountable to city ratepayers and residents for their transport decisions. Clearways and intersection changes have noticeably improved traffic flows in several parts of the city, while planning is well under way for the expansion of the Wairere Drive/Ring Road route around the city. Several new bus networks and routes are now in operation, with passenger numbers dramatically increasing. The fourlaning of Te Rapa Rd outside The Base is almost a reality, Avalon Drive Bypass has been approved, and new cycle and walkways are springing up. The frustration for City Councillors has been the reliance on Transit NZ (a Govt department) to upgrade and build the State Highways through the city, and the requirement for the regional council (Environment Waikato) to approve all bus improvements. Both groups have acted far slower than the City Council’s own planning has suggested is needed for the
sort of transport improvements required. Projects that should have taken at the most a few months to approve, have taken years, while our traffic problems continue to worsen. For example, the great new Orbiter bus service actually took over 3 years to be approved from the time the City requested it. The good news is that Transit have finally responded to pressure from communities like Hamilton, and have put in place ironclad work programmes that will finally get the necessary roads built - including several in and around Hamilton. The bad news is that EW, who have no other transport operational responsibility, have refused to let the City Council get on with the public transport job and run the city’s buses. The City believes this is the best and most efficient means of fast-tracking bus improvements in Hamilton. EW’s own consultant, employed to look at the possibility of letting the City run its own buses, was himself positive about the suggested move. A scientific poll of 790 residents showed 71% thought the City should run the buses, while only 8% thought EW should. What did EW Councillors do? They refused to even go out to the public to consult with them on their views. Of the four Hamilton representatives on EW, only Ian Balme supported the City running the buses, while Crs Peart, Livingstone and Southgate all strongly opposed the City. Watch this space for future instalments!
Who should run the buses.... the City, or the Region?
Western Community News - December 2006
years are over
A farewell luncheon will be held for Mrs Elsie Nelley at Frankton School on 19 December at 10 am in the Frankton School Hall. This is an opportunity for teachers, parents and ex pupils to honour Elsie for her commitment to teaching and learning. Elsie began her first year teaching at Hangatiki and has taught in Bennydale, Pirongia, Kimihia, Alfriston Model and was in charge of the Y1Y2 students for 9 years at Forest Lake before coming to Frankton School in August, 1980. She is a well known educator within the Waikato area and internationally through writing for PM Readers. Judy Dixon said how lucky she has been during her 14 years as Frankton School Principal to have had such a committed, loyal and competent Deputy and she will miss Elsie’s depth of experience and wisdom. Judy also spoke of how Elsie has never lost her love of teaching throughout her career and still models excellent practice for others. When Frankton’s numbers built up just before the end of Term 3 this year, Elsie, as well as continuing her Deputy Principal duties, began teaching in Room 21. Mrs Dixon says Room 21 children are extremely lucky to have Mrs Nelley as their teacher for the last term of this year and for Elsie’s last term at Frankton. Mrs Nelley will continue to be involved in learning and teaching as the co-ordinator for local schools (Frankton, Maeroa, Nawton, Frankton and Grandview Kindergartens) for their Cluster Initiative for Extending High Standards in 2007. She will continue to write for PM Readers, and spend time with her grandchildren. ADVERTISEMENT
Paula Southgate EW Regional Councillor Hamilton
Happy to hear from you or talk to your group.......
07 8561470 p.southgate@councillor.ew.govt.nz
Your SAY: “What did you like most about treats in the park?”
Keanu Frelan, Jacquita Brass, Cheyenne Hastings, Julia Hout, Ocean Brass, J’zon Brass, Levi Pitman, Celine Hepi Ani Johnson 12 yrs old 9 yrs old 11 yrs 11 yrs 7 yrs 8 yrs 9 yrs The scary house The Butter family I liked the scary The Popsicle band I like the treats at I like it because I liked it cos we I liked the witches I liked the Popsicle was the best and were the best house, especially was the coolest. I the Treat stations. there was heaps got lollies and ice that were giving band. I liked it Pineapple Pete because Rochelle the part where liked their dancing, They were not too of different stuff to cream and lots of out the yellow when they danced was cool too was a good singer. you had to find the they had good sugary they were do like the scary stuff. It was also bags. I liked the and they had cool he had the best And I liked it cos I key in the body. moves and they just right, they house, prizes, cool cos we got red bags they gave costumes too. costume. It was won a prize. They had cool made me laugh. were all nice as. treats, the concert, to watch Nawton out at the start for funny too cos prizes too. They bouncy castle and School’s Kapahaka our treats too. people had to go throw them out to the slide. group perform. up and get prizes everyone. on stage. Te Ahurei a Rangatahi have just held an awesome camp in Waihi. The Camp was based around youth issues and provides opportunities for youth to develop rangatahi skills and potential to become leaders amongst their peers. For more Info call Te Ahurei a Rangatahi 07 8383013.
Tawhiri makes his mark
WHATEVER SHAPE OR SIZE…
Are you able to help in our search for bikes and workboots? We are Forward Focus. We work alongside Youth aged between 16-24yrs with a goal of helping them move into fulltime employment. With over 100 youth working alongside their five leading Holistic Coaches, our want for any spare boots and bikes is huge. If you have any bikes or boots laying around at home, we know there will be an eager pair of wai wai’s to fill them, so they can get out and earn their own money and become independent. This will solve the problem of lack of transport and/or the right foot wear. We know that with more of these resources made available, in “whatever shape or size”, it would give our youth so much more the advantage of achieving that work opportunity! Contact 07 8481629 The next exciting Western Stars Holiday Programmes will take place Tuesday 30th January till Friday 2nd Feb then an additional day on Monday 5th February. The three programmes for ages 5- 7years, 8-9 years and 10 – 13 years are based at Hamilton’s Fraser High School and run from 8.30 – 5pm. Cost is just $60 for the 5 days if booked before 25th January. Registrations received after this date cost is $70. Bookings can be made at The Western Community Centre, 46 Hyde Ave and can be taken before Christmas to secure a place. Contact 8474873 or email wstars@wccham.org.nz.
Tawhiri Johnson has made a huge impression on his teachers, peers and other students at Rhode Street School. His willingness to listen and his considerate behaviour have made him a popular pupil. It has also brought about a number of opportunities. For example, Tawhiri was nominated by his peers into the Student Council where he has played a lead role in organising school events including discos and gala days and representing the school on a number of occasions. This has included playing a prominent role in liaison with the National Bank to train as a school “bank teller”. His ability to respond to new advice and guidance has seen him become an increasingly confident public speaker. He took the senior prize in the school performance competition teaming up with class mate, Jeremy Healey, to provide an entertaining satirical look at news reporting. He also landed the lead role in the School’s Christmas Production, “Christmas Is Banned”, which is a school twist on the famous Charles Dickens tale, A Christmas Carol. Tawhiri’s strong performance as the grouchy Mr Humbug has laid a firm foundation for the supporting characters to build upon. This role has highlighted Tawhiri’s conscientious approach to the activities in which he embarks.
This has included playing prominent parts in several school teams including basketball and soccer. His sense of fairness was evident in a friendly game during Term 3, when a visiting Whitiora Team ravaged by sickness was only able to field a weakened side. Tawhiri, a solid centre back / goalkeeper, and backline marshall, persuaded fellow team mate, Serge Ngangoye-Madjou, a quality striker, to offer to play with the Whitiora team to even up the sides. Therein followed an excellent game with a great deal of friendship between the two sides to follow. During October of this year, Tawhiri was nominated by the school to receive the Altrusa Citizen of the Year award. He went to the council chambers in Hamilton and with 18 other Hamilton Students received the award from the Mayor, Mr. Redman. He was accompanied by his family, principal, Mr Ngatai and class teacher. When asked, his teacher, Mr McCurry commented that...” He (Tawhiri) is an excellent student and a good role model. He is an asset to any group bringing in a conscientious and diligent approach. He gets the job done!” It is clear to see from the few experiences outlined that this young man has a great deal to offer to his community, ...and he does!
Western Community News - December 2006
Prestigious values award
Humbug at Rhode St Rhode Street School’s stage production ‘Christmas is Banned’ was a huge success. The show provided a light hearted comedy about Mr Humbug the principal who did not believe in Christmas, who thought children should be doing reading, writing and maths in their classrooms instead of Christmas festivities. The children and teachers combined with some “blasts from the past” convinced Mr Humbug Christmas should happen at Rhode Street School. Many hours have been spent learning
lines making props and sewing costumes. The students responded to the challenge and it has been enjoyable working with such an extremely talented group of main characters. It was well supported by our families/whanau and the wider community with a sell out audience for each of the four shows performed. Rhode Street School would like to thank the many people who helped with making costumes and in particular the Waikato Rivertones Chorus for the use of their rise.
This magnificently carved Trophy was donated to the Nga Taiatea WhareKura by the Western Community Association for the student with the best values for the year. This carving describes that very title. Panieiraira represents the Taniwha at the stern of the Tainui Waka,the Hooks represents Values which implies to Maui Tikitiki, the mentor to Life. Erana Tuhakaraina is the first recipient to ever receive this Prestigious award at the prize giving night on Wednesday, 8th November 2006.
Officially presenting the trophy to this years Winner Erana Tuhakaraina is Centre
Justice & equality for young workers
Farewell to the Medlands
When Salvation Army Captains Graham and Lynne Medland move to Gisborne at the end of December, they will leave behind well-established family resources such as ‘Music and Movement’ and playgroup, commenced in early 2002 for preschoolers, and a Toy Library opened June 2004. Originally from Wellington, they have added five years’ work in the western suburbs of Hamilton to their previous service in Kaitaia and Nelson. As well as catering for young families their
work has included caring for the elderly by overseeing the Nawton Retirement Village, and those ‘between jobs’ in the Sallies’ Employment Plus in Hamilton and Ngaruawhaia. Another chaplaincy role evolved at the Nawton School attended by their children Alexia (11) and Thomas (8), where Graham was also a member of the BOT, and Lynne a parent helper and PTA member. Alexia is a capable young gymnast and netball player, and Thomas played rugby for Frankton and Fraser Tech. As Pastors of The Salvation Army Church Graham and Lynne were responsible for encouraging various community events, and those driving past the Grandview Road property often slowed to work out what was happening behind the bouncy castles, slippery slides and free BBQ’s. Their intention has been to ensure the church was a family, with individuals and families enjoying each other’s company and grow in community together.
Western Community News - December 2006
The Young Workers’ Resource Centre is about SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EQUALITY! YWRC is a non-profit organisation, which works to promote, develop and provide quality education, information and resources. This is in a bid to enhance well-being, empowerment, positive change and understanding for young people in the community in regard to their employment and workplace issues. YWRC enters High Schools and other training establishments and provides a workshop series for youth on employment rights and obligations. YWRC provides experienced education on employment based unit standards,
resources, information, a referral service and a voice for youth in the political arena. Our service is free to youth! At the YWRC, we currently ran a website competition, along with the team at Blacksheep Creative, in Garden Place, in a bid to get the ‘computer savvy’ youth that use our service, to come up with a web design that we could build from. 1st place went to Laura Bocock from Sacred Heart Girls College. 2nd place went to Michael Stone from Huntly College. 3rd place went to Renee Junger from Hillcrest High School. We truly are proud of the competition winners; they did so well, tried so hard and their efforts are for such a wonderful cause. WE REALLY WANT TO THANK YOU! The members of the wider Hamilton community for your support throughout the year! We would also like to thank WINTEC and the team at Blacksheep Creative. We would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and New Year. To find out more about YWRC, to ask for advise, to donate money, look at our unit standard delivery service, or to book a workshop/series, please contact us on 839 0094 or email Sonya at ywrc@xtra. co.nz.
The Western Community News is published jointly by the Western Community Centre, Inc., and Hamilton’s Fraser High School. It is produced every second month by local people, including Tim Atkinson, Ioana Tolofua, Neil Tolan, Robin Read-Bloomfield, Julie Pullman, Saun Libeau and Dave Macpherson. Contact phone: 07-847 4873.
COMMUNITY PROFILE Jared McQueen
Originally from Whangarei, Jared and Deva McQueen have lived in Hamilton for the past 2 years. They have 3 children Kiera age 6, Maya age 3 and Loki age 22 months. Although interested in skate boarding and computers Jared values his family as the most important thing in his life. I wouldn’t be the person I am without them he says. Diva and Jared met at High school in Whangarei when he was 16 and Deva was 14. They have been together ever since. Before moving to Hamilton Jared worked as a chef in Whangarei for 8 years he loved the work but found the hours difficult to mix with family life. So when the opportunity for a job, with regular hours, came up
History Art Christmas Display A Nativity mural with a total size of 22 metres long by 1.7 metres high will once again be on display at the Church College of New Zealand library for the Christmas Season. The mural made up with 20 separate panels depicting 5 scenes from the Christmas story has for the last two years been under going a major upgrade. Originally each of the 20 panels which measure 1.2 by 1.7 metres were made from black builder’s paper and cellophane. Hand crafted by ex CCNZ Librarian Lamia Hooper the designs were on display each year from 1987. Natural wear and tear on the materials and constant repair resulted in the panels becoming unusable in 2004 and 2005. Under the direction of the Temple View Rate Payers Association and with assistance from Church College each of the panels was photographed and digitally enhanced.
The final step involved printing each of the panels onto a more permanent type of material. The panels are set to be on display from the 13 – 31 December to coincide with the annual Hamilton New Zealand Temple Lights sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of LatterDay Saints.
with The Department of Corrections in Hamilton he and Deva decided to make the move. Jared now works as a Health Promoter for Te Kohao Health, a job which he finds diverse and fulfilling. Their original idea was that they would stay in Hamilton for 2 or 3 years but they like the Waikato so much they are planning to be here long term. They feel the city has a lot to offer families with young children and enjoy the annual community events like ‘Treats in the Park’ and lovely outside areas that are accessible such as the Lake and Hamilton Gardens. It has all the advantages of a large city without the fast paced business of Auckland says Jared.
Dinsdale Lions Club welcomes new member At their Change-over night in June, the incoming President of the Dinsdale Lions Club, James Marris, had the pleasure of inducting new member Jack Humphry into the club. The club undertakes a unique brand of Lionism based on fellowship, laughter and a desire to help those less fortunate than themselves. Over the last 28 years the Club has been involved in many rewarding projects within the community, and is presently forming a close working relationship with the Western Community Centre.
Crosslight Trust Opportunity Shop
Want to advertise in the
Contact Ioana on 847
4873
or email ioana.tolofua@hcc.govt.nz for a competitive rates chart & publication schedule
The Dinsdale Lions Club were pleased to be part of and support the Western Community Centre event Treats in the Park held in October. For more inquiries phone John on 846 4183.
Great news! Our new shop is now open! It’s new and fresh. We are thrilled to have a bit more space and it is right next door to our old shop. Come in and do your Christmas shopping! Lots of bargains to be found. Shop hours are Monday to Friday 9.00 am to 4.00 pm.
The proceeds from our shop are used to support the other services and programmes we offer: Counselling (at very affordable fees), food bank, social groups for the “over 60’s”, a safe place to come and have a cuppa and chat or ask for advice and whatever else we may be able to help you with. If you have never been to see us you can find us at 1 Johnson Street, Dinsdale although the op shop more easily accessed through the West Hamilton Anglican church car park, Rifle Range Road (opposite Frankton school) – so parking is easy and the bargains are great. Come on in, we would love to see you. For any enquiries please phone us on 847 2998.
Western Community News - December 2006
Senior Student Achievers DUX
Proxime Accessit
Andrew Holland
Adam Paul
High Distinction Physics High Distinction Biology Distinction Chemistry Prize for Progress in Year 13 Physics Most Outstanding Maths Scholar, (A+ for Waikato University first year paper in Algebra) Waikato University Vice Chancellor’s Award for Academic Excellence worth $5,000 Graduated with Honours
High Distinction English Distinction Accounting Distinction Chemistry Distinction Maths - Calculus Distinction Physics Graduated with Honours
Year 13 Special Awards Helen Barr Hughes Cup for most reliable & active group senior Russell Polley Memorial Scholarship Sporting Excellence
Jared McLaughlin The Frankton Rotary Tray for Service to the School Kylie Docherty Senior Media Cup
Graduated with Honours
Narelle Waite The Evan McLennan Trophy for Senior Excellence in Choreography Luke Meehan Award Senior Music Cup for Academic Excellence Sarah McSheffrey Horlor Cup for Computer Graphics Jed Laundry University of Waikato Computing Scholarship
Mark O’Brien Personality of the Year Trophy awarded by the Senior Council ENZA Award in Agriculture & Horticulture Kelly Pinfold & Tim Michels Joint winners of Humanitarian Shield in recognition of dedication & outstanding effort to the School Council Elle Gray Beatrice Fraser Memorial Award for Scholastic ability, personality and school interests Graduated with Honours
Daniel Taylor Whampoa Fraser Memorial for Scholastic ability Eliza Kearvell Dinsdale Lions Club Citizenship Award
Kate Probert Dianne Yates Citizenship Award Lyna Ear Gordon Harris Award for Excellence in the Visual Arts
Top Year 12 Student
Amir Malek
High Distinction Chemistry High Distinction Geography High Distinction Mathematics High Distinction Physics High Distinction Year 13 Mathematics - Statistics Distinction Year 13 Classics – Passed University of Waikato Social & Moral Philosophy Paper with an A+ Returning Pupil Scholarship Service Award to the School Morrison Cup for Academic Excellence in Year 12
Year 12 Special Awards Melissa Goodman Kylie Morrison Memorial Cup for Orchestral Contribution Matthew Ting RSA Cup for Dedication & Involvement in Music Hautai Greensill Te Roopu Kaumatua – Most Outstanding Senior Student Bronwyn Scott Rumney Family Trophy for Board of Trustees Representative David Fairley-King Cryovac Award for Excellence in the Workplace Naomi Hughes King Cup for Best Piano Performance John Brian Young Fuji Xerox Trophy for Excellence in Design Technology Sarah Wilson Gordon Harris Award for Excellence in the Visual Arts Angela March Gibb Cup for Dedication in the Performing Arts Rebecca Robins Linda Danrell Memorial for Excellence in Biology Michael Ridder Senior Music Cup for Musicianship & Performance David Squire Trophy for most Dedicated Musician Luke Bjerring University of Waikato Computing Scholarships This pays for full fees for the first year at University.
Western Community News - December 2006
2004 Graduates Graduating with Honours
Helen Barr Anna Buss Lyna Ear Ryan Geard Elle Gray Andrew Holland Kyra Irons Gagandeep Kalra Cheri Kennedy Min Hyung Lee Kara Mason Stacey McBride Tim Michels Adam Paul Omesha Perera Robert Tuck
Graduating Abdifatah Abdullahi Sarah Bennett Ross Brittan Moana Brooks Matt Carson Kim Collins James Connew Lucas Dempsey Laura Frampton Nicola Gaastra Martin Harvey Aishia Healey Maria Henley Grant Hickey Bruce Hoddinott Eddie Joe Mohammed Kadhom Jasmin Kaur Caroline Kells Ben Kiernan Anita-Marie Lakua Emily Laurie-Fendall Yi Ly Anzel Marais Ariana Matenga
Carly Mckoy Ashleigh Mclean Rachel Milne Alex Nelson Ayumi Nishitaki Karl Osborne Seth Paenga Upesh Patel Shirley Prendergast Chairmaine Riley Teri Robertson-Meling Jessica Sharp Amy Shields Danielle Smeenk Emma Snowden Renee Stevenson Mark Stichbury Yurina Tada Werner Tuatagaloa Hemesh Unka Larissa Utting Daniel Vernall Gareth Wagstaff Chantelle Willoughby Yu Yamane
Congratulations to all those students who graduated in 2006
We Farewell our Internatioal Students
Music, speeches, laughter and even some tears filled Hamilton Fraser High School’s hall at the International Students’ Farewell evening for 2006. After the welcome by Mr Alex Davis, the Director of International Students, the students presented items from Hip Hop to traditional dance, from classical piano to a Brazilian song between formalities. It was held to honour our students who are leaving to return to their home countries for their further education and those who plan to attend university here in New Zealand in 2007. It was also an opportunity to thank our homestay parents for providing that ‘home away from home’. Joe Yang, Fraser’s Deputy Head Boy, spoke about highlights of his five years here and the pluses he had gained from becoming fully involved in the life of the school.
Hiromitsu Murai, who has been accepted into Waseda University, one of Japan’s top universities based on his work at Fraser and on the results of long exams in Japan in September, spoke about the challenges and rewards of living in another culture and studying in a different language.
Sasinart (Jean) Sangthongjai with her homestay family, the Barnsdalls, Tina, Ian and Madisyn. After four dancers, led by Sayaka Yamamoto, demonstrated the strong beat and motion of a Japanese dance, the stage filled with members of the audience ‘dancing with the stars’, some like Lorraine Mexted and others more like Rodney Hyde, all with fun and lots of energy. Sohran Bushi is a popular traditional dance in Japan. It comes from northern Japan where fish is an important meal. There are many fishing villages there and this dance is to help pray for a big catch. Explained by Mika Yoshimuri:
If you would like the opportunity to meet interesting young people from other countries and cultures from beyond New Zealand’s shores, join the homestay team at Hamilton’s Fraser High. For more information, phone 846 8642, the Fraser High international office.
Western Community News - December 2006
Getting out of your Comfort Zone —— by Lydia Jeffries ——
Are you getting out of your ‘Comfort Zone’? Standing on top of the beam looking down at people’s faces that I had barely spent 24 hours with, I slowly turned around and put my toes on the edge of the beam… I drop, falling, and instead of hitting that hard dirt ground I was in the arms of those strangers. I want to do that again! But this time higher! Our instructor at the Outdoor Pursuits Centre that I attended in July of this year had a thing with ‘Comfort Zones’ and making sure we were all pushed outside them. He likened a comfort zone to two circles, the inner circle was your comfort zone and the outer circle was how much you pushed yourself, tried something you hadn’t done or didn’t think you could do. At the end of each activity we had to place whatever we found around us, on a dust drawn comfort zone circle on the ground. Out of all the activities we did, not one of us was able to honestly put anything in that inner circle, and that feeling was great!!! Outdoor Pursuits is all about getting out of our own personal comfort zone which is different for everyone, also it’s pushing yourself, believing in yourself, valuing your abilities and working together. Each group was made up of guys and girls and only a few of us knew each other, but a lot didn’t know anyone else in the group of strangers. Well talk about getting straight into breaking my comfort zone limits. One
of our first group activities was to stand on a 2metre high beam and fall into the arms of those strangers that would soon became the coolest group of people I have ever met. Comfort zones are sometimes really hard to get out of. You have to push and push yourself. Whether its climbing Mt Turangi, freezing all over, walking through what I thought was a snow storm, climbing through an underground cave in spaces that you where lucky to squeeze through, running water thundering through the cave dulling all other sounds, jumping from a trapeze five stories high, shaking from head to toe and so happy when you safely touch that “oh so sweet ground!” You know where my mark was on the comfort zone circle that night! The best thing about stepping out of your comfort zone is the excitement and achievement you feel. Like after you get to the top of the snow covered mountain and slide all the way down ending in a snow fight at the bottom, or getting each other wet in the swamp muddy from head to toe and squeezing from one small damp dark space to another. If I hadn’t stepped out of my comfort zone I wouldn’t have experienced any of that. I had a wicked time at camp! Even now, I still look for the things I can do, once again to get me out of my comfort zone, to test my limits and challenge myself. So what are you waiting for? Get out of YOUR comfort zone.
sport @ fraser
Sport at Hamilton’s Fraser High is under new management. Fraser High now has two Directors of Sport, Kerryn Barr and Debbie Barnsdall. Kerryn and Debbie would like to thank all those special people who volunteer their services and time as coaches, managers, Teachers in Charge and officials for the 2006 sport@ fraser season. We are holding a volunteers thank you evening with nibbles and refreshments on Thursday 7 December from 5.30 – 7pm, upstairs
in the school gymnasium conference room. Invitations are being posted, so keep an eye on your mail.
Upcoming Events
Wednesday, 13 December, 7pm: Fraser High Netball Club Meeting – Gym 6. Open to all who are interested. Monday 12 & Thursday 15 February: Rugby Preseason Training on school fields after school. Open to all interested, U15 and over March – 2nd Week: Introductory
Western Community News - December 2006
New Directions In Maori Achievement
It is now widely known that, as from 2007, Hamilton’s Fraser High School will not be running a bilingual programme for Te Reo Maori at Years 9 and 10. We acknowledge that, despite the best efforts of staff over the last seven years, the achievement levels of our Maori students, both within the Wananga and in the mainstream, have not increased. We also acknowledge that the retention of Maori students to Years 12 and 13 is still markedly lower than for nonMaori. As Principal, I cannot support an initiative that does not enhance Maori student achievement. Sticking plasters cannot disguise the reality that mediocrity prevails.
From 2007, Hamilton’s Fraser High School will be part of a new initiative, supported by the Government and Ministry of Education, called Te Kotahitanga. Te Kotahitanga is aimed at improving the achievement outcomes for all 480 Maori students at Hamilton’s Fraser High School, with a very strong focus on Years 9 and 10. In 2007, the placement of Maori students into their Year 9 and Year 10 classes will be far more carefully controlled. Over 60 staff have agreed to participate in Te Kotahitanga, and will attend a three day hui in January before the start of school. Te Reo Maori will still be available for every student who wishes to learn Maori language at every level of the school.
Martin Elliott, Principal
What do you mean school is boring? Look what we did this year with the year 12 automotive classes. We’ve built tricycles with engines and raced them in the “Petrol-Miser” competition. We’ve built tricycles for a down hill soap-box race. We built a bike with a seat height of 1.9 meters. (Mum doesn’t have to worry: we had no major accidents). To top it all off, we got Mr O’Loughlin’s car and “Pimped his Ride”. It was a great year. We had awesome students, a lot of fun and we were learning stuff as well!
We had some serious engineering going on this year in the Automotive and Engineering classes. As you can see this driver (left) is having a lot of fun racing his tricycle. He will have even more fun when it’s time to fill up, getting 87 kilometers out of 1 litre of petrol!
Seniors Re-Enrolling Coaches Course Open to all those interested in coaching a Fraser High Sport Team. Please email sport@ fraser-high.school.nz.
Coaches, officials, volunteers for 2007
Open to all interested in being involved with a Fraser High Sport Team next year. Email sport@fraser-high.school.nz OR phone 847 9044 ext 741.
Pre-enrolment is compulsory for Years 12 and 13 students returning to school in 2007. You must bring your Record of Learning (results) with you in order to confirm subject selection or request changes. Subject selections and timetables will be removed from those students who do not pre-enrol. We cannot guarantee places in classes to any students who enrol late.
Student Commencement Dates for 2007 Wednesday 31 January 2007 Year 12 and 13 course confirmation Surnames A-M 9.00am – 12 noon, 12.30pm – 1.30pm
Thursday 1 February 2007 Year 12 and 13 course confirmation Surnames N-Z 9.00am – 12 noon, 12.30pm – 1.30pm
Friday 2 February 2007 Staff only day
Monday 5 February 2007 School closed
Tuesday 6 February 2007 Waitangi Day
Wednesday 7 February 2007
Year 9, all new students to the school and Peer Support Leaders: powhiri and orientation tour commencing 8.45am.
Thursday 8 February 2007 Years 9 and 10
Friday 9 February
Years 11, 12 and 13 start Whole school attending
Thank You to all my loyal supporters
New Enrolments
Our school has an enrolment scheme. Limited “out of zone” places may be available in some year levels. Please phone the School Office if you require further information.
To make an appointment for an enrolment interview, please telephone the School Office 847 9044 on Monday 29 January or Tuesday 30 January 2007. Note: Enrolment appointments may not be available during the period 31 January – 9 February.
Uniform Shop Opening Hours We encourage parents who require a form for WINZ or CYFS funding to collect the form from the school in December to ensure their uniform will be available to pick-up in January. Please note we do not have Lay-bys at the school uniform shop. NOTE: The usual shop hours may not always apply in December and January. If you have any enquiries, please do not hesitate to contact Debra Dove during shop hours on 847 9044 ext 891, or outside those hours, on her voicemail and she will get back to you.
Normal Opening hours
Monday ... ... ... ... ... .. Tuesday ... ... ... ... ... . Wednesday ... ... ... ... .. Thursday .. . .. . .. . .. . .. .
3.15pm to 4.30pm 1.15pm to 1.45pm 8.00am to 9.00am 3.15pm to 5.15pm
Hours for December 2006
Up until 12 December ... . .. . .. . Normal hours CLOSED for rest of year
Hours for January 2007
Tuesday 23 January .. . .. . 10.00am to 3.00pm Wednesday 24 January ... 10.00am to 3.00pm Thursday 25 January . .. . .. 10.00am to 3.00pm Friday 26 January ... . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. Closed Monday 29 January ... ... ... ... ... . Closed Tuesday 30 January .. . .. . .. . .. . 2.00-6.00pm Wednesday 31 January ... ... ... 2.00-6.00pm
Hours for February 2007
Thursday 1 February . .. . .. 3.30pm to 7.00pm Friday 2 February . .. . .. . .. 3.30pm to 7.00pm Monday 5 February ... ... . 3.30pm to 7.00pm Tuesday 6 February .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . Closed Wednesday 7 February ... 8.00am to 9.00am, ... 4.00pm to 6.00pm Thursday 8 February onwards ... Normal shop hours
Students Travelling Overseas
In February 2007 Tim Michels (left) is flying to New Delhi before heading up to the foothills of the Himalayas to participate in voluntary work for Oxfam. Tim believes he will be involved in water sanitation, farm immigration, building and education. While feeling slightly nervous at the prospect of this visit, Tim is very excited at what he will experience and learn during this time. Until he leaves Tim is busy raising the necessary funds for his three months (or possibly longer) stay.
AFS Scholarship
Daisy Faulkner (left) is going to be doing volunteer work for Raleigh International in March 2007. She will go to Namibia for ten weeks, and the programme will be broken into three parts – community, environment and adventure! She has just started various fund-raising ventures to raise the $6,250 needed for the trip. This will contribute to the programme, her accommodation, food and airfare. For more information speak to Mrs Bellamy who has been a leader for this programme.
Congratulations to Nick Wills (right) who has been awarded an AFS Scholarship for 2007-2008. Nick will depart for Finland next July where he will spend one year attending a Finnish school and experiencing the Land of the Midnight Sun. On his return to New Zealand, Nick plans to enrol at Wintec, for a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise degree.
First of all I would like to say a big thank you to everyone for the wonderful support I received from the best school and community in New Zealand during my time on NZ Idol. Wow, where do I start? I never imagined all those months ago, when I went for my first audition in Auckland, that I would have experienced the things I have over the last few months. It has been the most incredible time and something that I will treasure forever. The long hours waiting in the queues for the first few auditions in Auckland seem like such a long time ago now. Going through each stage of the auditions was nerve racking, not knowing if I made it through or not. Being in the ‘Idol House’ was a lot of fun. My room mate in the house was Kali. We were looked after by a couple, Billy and Leanne, who had two young children. So the feeling in the house was very homely. Billy was the chef and he treated us to the most amazing breakfasts. We all joke that this is what we miss the most about not being in the house. The house was hidden away in West Auckland near Hobsonville Air Base, and we weren’t allowed to let anyone know where it was, not even our families. The house was just the most fun and amazing place. We all got on so well and had the funniest times. One of the funniest things was Ben’s obsession with the movie “Family Guy”. I think he knows every single line in the movie and even plays all the characters. One of my most enjoyable times on Idol was our “Dooms Day Out”. We got to spend the day out on an America’s Cup yacht. We all had a turn at the wheel but my favourite part was the big wave that came over the side and drenched Stables. You had to be there! In between the fun times was a lot of hard work. Our days would consist of time with our vocal coaches and musical composers, Suzie and Adrian, as well as learning dance routines. The days would start at 6.00am and finish at 7.00pm. The biggest highlight for me was the Grand Final. Walking out for the first time, on to the stage at the St James to the screaming crowd, not even being able to hear the band playing behind me as I started to sing, will be a memory that I will cherish forever. It made everything that I went through to get there worthwhile. Once again, to everybody who supported me I’d like to say thank you. — Ashlee Fisher Western Community News - December 2006
What’s On Out West?
We would like to wish the West Hamilton community a happy and safe Christmas and prosperous New Year. We wish you all safe travels and an enjoyable relaxing time with family and friends. The Western Community Centre will close on Friday 22 December 2006 and will re open on Wednesday 01 January 2007. For any emergencies you can contact the Centre Manager Robin Read-Bloomfield on 027 5751987.
The next Western Stars Holiday Programmes will take place at Hamilton’s Fraser High School from Tuesday 30 January to Friday 2 February and Monday 5 February 2007. Programmes available 5 - 7 years, 8 - 9 years and 10 - 13 years, 8.30 am to 5.00 pm and just $60 for the 5 days. Book now by
contacting The Western Community Centre, 46 Hyde Ave 07 847 4873.
Crosslight Trust, 1 Johnson St, Dinsdale, Phone 847 2998 It’s hard to believe that Christmas is nearly here. Our closing dates over Christmas New Year are: Op Shop – Closes Thursday 21 December at 4.00 pm and re-opens On Monday 8 January 2007 at 9.00 am Office (including foodbank) closes Friday 22 December at 12.30 pm and re-opens on Wednesday 3 January 2007. Wednesday 3 – Friday 5 January hours will be 9.00 am to 1.00 pm. Normal hours will resume from Monday 8 January 2007. We would like to take this opportunity to
wish all the Western Community News readers blessings for Christmas and a safe and happy holiday season. To all the wonderful team at Western Community Centre we thank you for your support.
Art Exhibition – Monday 27 November to Friday 07 December
City Council Community Development team events...
NZ Aids Foundation – Friday 01 December
Hamilton City Waitangi Day Commemorations: Tuesday 6 February 2007. If you’d like to register your interest for being a volunteer, stall holder, performance or represent your voice in an educational forum, please contact Te Runanga O Kirikiriroa on
Human Rights Commission Presentation Thursday 07 December
07 8461042. As part of the 16 days of activism against gender violence in Hamilton, we present to you the following free public presentations.
Child Restraint Project Gears improved Up In Nawton Another child restraint project has techniques. to continue positive safety begun in Nawton. It aims to get more kids safe in cars and vans by promoting child restraint use and correct fitting
The project is a joint collaborative with community groups and Government agencies to increase child restraint awareness. The project is being managed and implemented by the local ‘KIPC’ Kirikiriroa Injury Prevention Collective. Hamilton City Council Neighbourhood Advisor Ioana Tolofua says, “the idea is to keep our children safe. Observations over the last few weeks around Nawton streets and NewNawton Mall car park has revealed that things can be
measures for our children”. Problem areas are mainly vans, people movers and sport utility vehicles. A similar project last year brought compliance rates up from 86 – 92%. Early indications this year is that the rate is lower than what it was, the same time last year. A range of initiatives are being implemented to improve the situation at Nawton. These include media promotions, a community workshop at the Western Community Centre and child restraint checking by Safe2Go technicians and police traffic safety check points. PHOTO – Tiana and Kiera Landon display correct child restraint technique
World of reggae on radio Reggae music unites people from all around the globe – from its beginnings in the Caribbean, to its spiritual home in Africa, and its modern day influence on new music here in Aotearoa. This is a theme reflected in Community Radio Hamilton’s newest music show ‘Roots and Culture’ (10.30pm, Wednesdays), exploring the many forms of reggae music. The show’s host, volunteer broadcaster Matthew Manning, AKA Mann1 believes “Where there is reggae, there is peace and love.” Born in Zimbabwe, Matthew has lived in many countries throughout Africa, and now in New Zealand for the past six years. “Reggae music is the one thing we all have in common - be we white, brown or black,” he explains. Reggae originally grew from ska music, with elements of American R&B and Caribbean styles, in the 1930s. It
was later popularised by Bob Marley in the 1960s, who used the music to spread the Rasta ideals of peace and love for all throughout the world. “For me reggae is a part of life, and the message is be true to ones self and all else will fall into place,” says Matthew. ‘Roots and Culture’ features a wide selection of reggae, old and new – from lovers rock to dancehall and joins Community Radio Hamilton’s diverse line up of specialist music shows which aim to inform as well as entertain. “Our music shows represent a wide range of musical tastes including world sounds, hip hop beats, and Christian metal, but they all have one thing in common – in that they also profile the story behind the music,” says Community Radio Hamilton’s general manager Phil Grey.
10 Western Community News - December 2006
Community Radio Hamilton (106.7FM & AM1206) promotes all kinds of community information, and provides a forum for a diverse range of voices. If you think you’ve got what it takes to make it on Access radio, contact Phil at Community Radio Hamilton on 07
Work and Income Presentation – Monday 27 November Media Training – Tuesday 28 November Shakti Presentation December
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Above presentations have limited spaces, please RSVP to Project Co-ordinator Jenny Nand, Neighbourhood Advisor, Community Development, Hamilton City Council on 07 859 2571, mobile 021 315472 or e-mail jenny.nand@hcc.govt.nz.
Sallies’ Family Store moves to Te Rapa
The Salvation Army is opening a new Family Store in Te Rapa on Saturday 16 December 2006 and to celebrate this occasion there will be bargains galore, and free giveaways including a free sausage sizzle. Due to the retail resurgence in the Dinsdale/Nawton area the Dinsdale Family Store is closing to make way for a liquor store, and so the Army have been forced to look elsewhere for a new location. The new store will be located on the corner of Te Rapa Road and Garnett Avenue directly above the Spotlight store in Te Rapa. All regular customers to the Dinsdale store are being encouraged to jump in their cars and drive an extra few streets across to the new Te Rapa store where you will be met with the same friendly help and wonderful bargains. We will also be purchasing a new truck to assist with our pickups and deliveries by opening day.
Western Community News - December 2006 11
Noah comes to St Columba’s
The play Noah was presented by the middle and senior students of St Columba’s School. It was based on Noah’s Ark from the Bible but with a twist. It was staged on the 18th and 19th of October. There were three shows, which received a tremendous response. It was GREAT!!! It had taken a long time to get the production just right but the time was definitely worth it. There had been auditions for the lead roles. It was pretty obvious that the teachers made perfect choices. It took some time and effort to find a part for every child in the senior part of the school. Not a soul was left out. A great job was done on the props. The backgrounds were effective and so was Noah’s Ark.
All go for the V8’s Hamilton City Council has received approval for its resource consent application to host the NZ round of the V8 Supercar Championship in the streets of Frankton as an annual street race from 2008-14. The streetrace has been a highly sought after event by other New Zealand cities due to the significant economic return, wide reaching media profile and excitement and vibrancy it delivers to its host city.
12 Western Community News - December 2006
Hamilton Mayor Michael Redman says that getting from the original announcement to today’s decision was purely down to the enormous cooperation and support of the Hamilton community and Council. “This achievement clearly reflects the confidence and energy that exists so tangibly in Hamilton. The vision shared by Key facts • The race will take place during the 2008 April/May school holidays Council and the • The 3.4km street race circuit borders the city’s CBD, running largely through the community was so Frankton business district and around the city’s green belt well aligned that • The first year is forecast to attract a maximum of 156,000 attendees plus the process quickly approximately 5,000 people associated with the running of the event gained momentum • The economic impact study estimates that the event will generate $20.3 million and made this of new money into the region in the first year and approximately $156 million considerable over the seven year. challenge achievable.