17 March Wainuiomata News

Ginny Andersen MP for Hutt South

Wainuiomata 04 564 4988 Petone 04 568 2949

See us online www.wsn.co.nz

YOUR LOCAL NEWS

/GinnyAndersenMP

Authorised by Ginny Andersen MP, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

Wednesday March 17, 2021

Today 12-18

Thursday 10-16

Friday 11-18

Saturday 11-17

Phone: (04) 587 1660

Emergency training

By: Gerald Rillstone A thirteen day long training course was held at Camp Wainuiomata for the country’s Emergency Management Assistance Team (EMAT) part of 5.2 million dollar government investment.

Continued on page 2.

Charlie Blanch, team leader for deployable capability in the National Emergeny Management Agency. Photo: Gerald Rillstone.

SECURITY TRAINING đŏ ++'%*#ŏ0+ŏ $ *#!ŏ5+1.ŏ .!!.ĕ đŏ +0ŏ 1..!*0(5ŏ3+.'%*#ĕ đŏ +ŏ,.!2%+1/ŏ!4,!.%!* !ŏ*! !// .5 đŏ .+#. ))!ŏ /! ŏ%*ŏ +3!.ŏ 100

Got WASP NESTS?

doesn’t matter how many... only pay $92 once this season for all Common or German Wasp nests on your urban residential section.

NZ Certificate in Security

(0800) 368 1095 www.hlc.ac.nz

EDUCATION TO EMPLOYMENT

www.pestproof.co.nz

2

Wednesday March 17, 2021

How to reach us

Phone (04) 587 1660 Address 23 Broderick Rd, Johnsonville P.O. Box 38-776, WMC 5045 Fax (04) 587 1661 ONLINE: www.wsn.co.nz

REPORTER

Gerald Rillstone wainui@wsn.co.nz

One of the bases used in the EMAT flagship programme led by the National Emergency Management Agency to improve emergency management in New Zealand. Photo Gerald Rillstone.

SALES

Les Whiteside les@wsn.co.nz 021 360 008

NATIONAL SALES

Sam Barnes sam@wsn.co.nz 021 109 4406

CLASSIFIED SALES

classifieds@wsn.co.nz YOUR LOCAL NEWSPAPER

Real role play Continued from page 1 EMAT is a flagship programme led by the National Emergency Management Agency to improve emergency management in New Zealand.

The third and last course to be held, there were 23 participants from central and local government undergoing an intensive personal and technical development course.

One 14 hour long scenario during the course was responding to an earth quake in the South Island.

Charlie Blanch. team leader for deploy-able capability in the National Emergency Management Agency, says as part of the exercise they had eighty role

plays involving other government agencies simulating local council staff, local businesses and local emergency services.

“The fire fighters and police officer involved in the role play are real and we had New Zealand Red Cross supporting.”

“We lost quite a few of the participants due to the COVID level two in Auckland and we weren’t able to start with a Powhiri at Wainuiomata Marae but we started with a Mihi whakatua and participants wrote their own Waiata on the course and there are quite a few aspects of that woven through the programme,” he says.

There is a mix of classroom

CATch all the news right here.... in the Wainuiomata News

based study on the course along with simulations.

“They learn a skill in the classroom and we then run a small scenario with them for example we take them through how to deescalate, how to manage conflict and support people in a response with say, a local cafe owner who has been told he can’t run a cafe for safety reasons, or a farmer who urgently needs to move some stock because of flooding but isn’t getting a clear answer.”

“It is really about this team working alongside the local emergency managers, the local council staff, local Iwi and enabling them to do a really good job for their communities.”

Announced in 2018 the team has been in training since 2019 and there will now be a review of it and decisions made on what is needed going forward Charlie says.

The course delivery was supported by the Ministry of Primary Industries and the New Zealand Defence Force also provided facilitators.

The Emergency Management Assistance Team has been established by the Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management, and made possible by $5.2m of additional funding. The initiative is part of the Emergency Management System Reform, a range of initiatives aimed at improving the emergency management system.

Dealing a better hand

Ph 04 587 1660 katrina@wsn.co.nz sam@wsn.co.nz les@wsn.co.nz

Hummingly’s Pandemic Pack has been providing hope and encouragement around the globe in the midst of the Covid-19 crisis. It is now available as a free download.

The Covid-19 pandemic stands out for the way it has affected the Aotearoa and global population all at once, and over the past year, in many ways, reshaped the way we live our lives.

Disaster recovery expert, Elizabeth McNaughton, cognitive scientist, Jolie Wills, physiotherapist, Bart de Vries, and political cartoonist, Khalid Albaih have come together to create the Pandemic Pack — a deck of 30 cards that are full

of hopeful reminders and optimistic questions to help people cope with Covid-19.

Their hope is that the science-backed advice, gentle reminders and questions in the pack will reach an even larger audience, providing the extra care and support that people might need during these times of stress, uncertainty and disruption.

A tool for coping with the challenges of Covid-19 One of the extraordinary things about humans is our adaptability. As a disaster recovery expert, Elizabeth McNaughton has seen many communities and individuals around the world go through a wide range of difficult situations and ca-

tastrophes, only to emerge stronger than before.

In fact, studies have shown us that most people come out of adversity with some type of growth — whether that be a greater appreciation of life, or spiritual growth, or deeper relationships.

Since launching the Pandemic Pack, Hummingly has seen the cards lead people to make better, healthier decisions but also normalise how people are feeling. The cards are designed to be short and sweet because most of us are short on bandwidth at the moment.

Download the free Pandemic Pack on the Hummingly website: www.hummingly.co.nz

Wednesday March 17, 2021

3

inbrief news Pioneer Chruch Country and Western concert The Wainuiomata Country and Western Club are once again performing at the Wainuiomata Pioneer Church on Sunday 21 March from 6.30 to 9pm All welcome. Entry by donation. Supper will be served

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

NIWA during last years match against a 200kg mountain man Adam Avalanche. Photo Gerald Rillstone.

NIWA to Face UK Standout New Zealand pro wrestling star NIWA is set to face widely respected UK competitor Ringo Ryan on March 27 at Valiant Pro: Invasion at Wainuiomata Intermediate in Lower Hutt.

The highly anticipated matchup brings together two men regarded as being among the best independent wrestlers in the world.

Lower Hutt’s own NIWA, has regularly performed to raucous crowds of up to 16,000 in Mexico where he was a genuine lucha libre star. His opponent, well known British wrestler Ringo Ryan of Liverpool, was once handpicked by legendary WWE wrestler William Regal for a spot in the WWE UK tournament.

While both men have competed alongside each other in the UK wrestling scene, this will be the first time they have squared off against each other in the ring. Both men seem to understand the pedigree of their opponent.

Ringo Ryan says, “I actually can’t wait for this match. NIWA has something you can’t teach.

He walks out and looks intense and means business and then he backs it up. All the top UK lads rave about how good NIWA is.”

NIWA, who is undefeated in Valiant Pro Wrestling since returning to New Zealand, understands that this is his biggest challenge yet.

“Ringo is literally one of the best wrestlers in the world. I’m not just saying that. He’s a tough dude who just wrestles and knows a bunch of ways to torture an opponent. This is going to be intense.”

Neither competitor is willing to concede victory to the other.

“I’m a pure product of British wrestling,” says Ryan. “Just watch me destroy this Kiwi, piece by piece.”

For local wrestler NIWA though, this comes down to national pride.

“This is about defending my home turf. It’s a fight for Kiwi pride. He might be one of the best in the world, that won’t be enough for my passion, fire and intensity.”

The line-up for Valiant Pro: Invasion will also feature a rare strap match between Brooke Duncan and Pauly Spitfire, two other New Zealanders who have both successfully wrestled overseas, as well as an anticipated matchup of perennial fan favourites, Jade ‘The Beast’ Priest and Rufguts.

Valiant Pro: Invasion will be held at 7pm on March 27 at Wainuiomata Intermediate. Tickets and information are available from https://www.eventfinda. co.nz/2021/valiant-pro-invasion/ lower-hutt.

For more information, contact: Danny Sol, Valiant Pro Announcer - dannysol.valiantpro@ gmail.com or 0275404545

This week Student Volunteer Week kicked off and The Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award (The Award) are taking time to acknowledge and celebrate their Award participants who volunteer in communities throughout Aotearoa.

National Director Karen Ross says in the past year, around 7,000 students have given more than 32,000 hours of voluntary service. “Their voluntary efforts include everything from helping the elderly in their community, volunteering at animal shelters, keeping Aotearoa clean and green through beach clean-ups, being involved in surf lifesaving, plus much more”.

Call for nominations Do you want to see an outstanding Deaf or disabled artist recognised?

How about community arts? Or a leader providing access to the arts for people in New Zealand?

Arts Access Aotearoa is calling for nominations to Te Putanga Toi Arts Access Awards 2021. There are six awards, plus the Arts Access Accolade.

Each award has a separate webpage where you can complete and submit your nomination form.

To make a nomination you can: t VTF UIF 4VSWFZ .POLFZ MJOL BOE submit online t EPXOMPBE UIF SFMFWBOU 8PSE document (see below), complete and submit via email or post t TVCNJU B /;4- WJEFP Nominations close on Friday 26 March 2021, artsaccess.org.nz/ awards.

Chris Bishop

List MP based in Hutt South

You can always contact my Wainuiomata office for assistance.

SHOP LOCAL t SUPPORT LOCAL

Phone 04 564 8707 or email me at Chris.bishopMP@parliament.govt.nz

Authorised by Chris Bishop, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.

SAM - s SAM WSN CO NZ LES - LES WSN CO NZ KATRINA - KATRINA WSN CO NZ

4

Wednesday March 17, 2021

readers have their say... Find out the WORD on the Street.

Question: What would you like to be really good at one day?

Aleise Mclintock

Hannah Patel

Heritage Kepa

Jevaeh Joseph

Taliah Mapakaitolo

Terama Mei

“I would like to be really good at singing and become a singer.”

“Better at athletics and get into a team.”

“I want to be really good at Rugby League I play now but I want to be the best.”

“I would like to be good at atheltics and a good runner.”

“I would really like to be good at athletics and be an athlete when I get older.”

“I would like to be the fastest in a food eating competition.”

School strike for climate School Strike 4 Climate NZ is standing up for climate justice once again on the 9th of April.

April the 9th will be the fourth intergenerational climate strike in the history of Aotearoa.

As climate change is affecting every New Zealander and every part of society, they are inviting everyone to join them: this Strike 4 Climate must be intergenerational.

Parents, Teachers, Aunties, Uncles and Grandparents are being asked to join youth on April the 9th to stand

up for climate justice.

“We know that this climate crisis isn’t just a finger pointing at one industry situation, it is a widespread issue that must have a collective response. We need everyone, from all walks of life, all across Aotearoa, we need you! The cost of inaction is far more dangerous than the initial price we will have to pay. The time to act is now, let’s make that known, and get this done the right way, together as the team of 5 million.” SS4C NZ Spokesperson & Media Representa-

Want more business locally?

tive, Ethan Reille says.

This strike will be coordinated on at a regional level, and will have a major impact on a national level.

SS4C NZ understands that climate change has different impacts on different communities, so each strike will have a differing primary focus.

This will stretch from 1 to 6 specific demands that they are requesting the Government act on immediately.

SS4C NZ want to see a rapid roll out of climate policy this year, such policy could look like:

äs 0HASING OUT THE USE OF FOSSIL FUELS NATIONWIDE. s ,AUNCHING AN INDEPENDENT IN quiry into cleaner practises within the Agricultural Sector, such as cleaner fertilizers and regenerative farming s (ONOURING ITS RESPONSIBILITY TO OUR Pacific Island neighbours and doing everything in their power to maintain such islands homes, culture & wellbeing, while making sure they have a home to migrate to, if and when the time comes

s )MMEDIATE INVESTMENT SUBSIDIS ing of clean energies such as EV Cars and Solar Panel installation s &INANCIALLY AND PHYSICALLY SUP porting the transition of those working within unsustainable jobs into sustainable industries s )MMEDIATE INVESTMENT IN #LIMATE Education, throughout the community and primary/secondary education s 2EMOVING LOCAL COUNCIL SUBSIDY cap on Public Transport, from the current 50% to wherever best suited

Advertise locally!

Reach your Wainuiomata customers cost-effectively Contact the Wainuiomata News for our rates and options. E les@wsn.co.nz or katrina@wsn.co.nz

Wednesday March 17, 2021

5

Drownings on the rise

Knitting and crochet volunteers are needed at the Wainuiomata Pataka. Photo: Gerald Rillstone.

Pataka calls for volunteers

By Gerald Rillstone

A range of volunteers are being called for at Kokiri Marae Pataka in Wainuiomata to boost an already productive team.

Anyone who has the time to come along and sew or knit would be welcome and general volunteers are needed to help pack kai for the

Pataka.

The Pataka is situated at Saint Peters Church Hall 33 Wise Street.

Also being called for are local Maori artists.

They are hosting another Matariki Maori art Festival this year, held at Wainuiomata Marae.

The dates for the Matariki are from the 7th to the 10th of July.

If any local Maori artist within the community would like to participate make contact with kelli@kokirihauora.org.nz for more information, or check out our Matariki Maori art festival Page on Facebook.

They are looking for painters, Moko artists, people who can drawer, weavers and creators or anyone who wants to get involved.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) are saying “we need to do better,” following a report published today outlining New Zealand’s poor beach and coastal drowning rates.

On average, 36 people fatally drown every year on New Zealand’s coastlines, according to the Beach & Coastal Safety Report published by SLSNZ – and that figure is on the increase.

SLSNZ Chief Executive, Paul Dalton, says the new findings are deeply upsetting.

“The number of fatal beach and coastal drownings in New Zealand has actually increased by 18% over the past five years compared to the previous five years…and our fatal beach and coastal drowning rate is 48% worse, per capita, than Australia’s,” he says.

Dalton says the vast majority of fatal beach drownings occurred on non-lifeguarded beaches, or outside of patrol hours. Swimming (22%), boating (17%) and

falls (17%) made up the majority of activities being undertaken at the time that someone fatally drowned.

A staggering 87% of victims were male.

Pasifika, Maori and Asian community members were the most over-represented in fatal drowning figures and, geographically, Northland has the highest fatal beach drowning rate in New Zealand (4.22 fatal drownings per 100,000 people, compared to 0.77 for Auckland).

“It’s time for us to think seriously, as Kiwis, about prevention and education when it comes to beach and coastal safety. We can’t have surf lifeguards everywhere, so how are we going to approach this?

Who’s responsible? And who’s going to pay for it?”

SLSNZ is a charity and, while the organisation does receive government funding towards frontline operational expenses, this funding does not cover public safety campaigns or education.

Half price fare trial Greater Wellington has welcomed news of an Auckland trial which will see around 200,000 community services card holders receive half price fares on public transport.

Auckland’s Community Connect concession pilot was announced by Transport Minister Michael Wood and Auckland Mayor Phil Goff today as a key weapon against climate change and rising emissions. It’s hoped that the move would result in around 2.7 million more public transport trips in Auckland in its first year, helping to

ease congestion and reduce emissions.

Daran Ponter, Chair of Greater Wellington, says the regional council is working with the Government to bring the trial to the Wellington Region.

“We’ve put a proposal to Government to bring a similar trial to Wellington. Being able to offer discounted fares to community services card holders will see a range of benefits for people in our region, It will bring increased access and affordability, equity, mode share shift and carbon emissions reductions.

It’s rare that one initiative can have so many good outcomes so the Government and ourselves just need to get on with how we can roll it out here,” says Chair Ponter.

The Auckland trial looks set to start in 2022 and will be made possible from existing fund on a 50/50 split basis between Auckland Council and Waka Kotahi’s National Land Transport Fund. It’s likely that any trial in Wellington would follow the same model with any lessons learned along the way incorporated.

Last call for entries for NZ Certified Builders Apprentice Challenge Sponsored by ITM NZ Certified Builders (NZCB) encourages carpentry apprentices nationwide to get their entries in before the 26 March deadline for the annual NZCB Apprentice Challenge Sponsored by ITM. The regional heats of the competition will be held on 10 April, with great prizes up for grabs and the winner of each going on to compete for the coveted title of national champion in Wellington in June.

All apprentices that compete in the regional heats will receive a prize pack and additional prizes will be awarded to first, second and third place-getters. Regional winners also win an all-expenses-paid trip to the

national final, held at the NZCB Annual Conference and Expo, where they will compete for the Ken Read Memorial Trophy and $50,000 worth of prizes.

Held in 19 locations across the country, the competition is open to any apprentices employed by NZCB member builders or who are enrolled with Industry Training Association Building (ITAB).

NZCB Business Development Manager South Island Nick Matthews says as last year’s competition was cancelled due to Covid-19, there is a lot of anticipation building for the 2021 NZCB Apprentice Challenge Sponsored by ITM among NZCB

member builders and apprentices around the country.

“This means the stakes are higher than ever before and we are looking forward to seeing a couple years’ worth of talent go hammer-tohammer to compete for the NZCB Apprentice Challenge Sponsored by ITM national title,” says Nick.

A week before the regional heats, competitors will be advised of the project they are to build. On the day of the heats each competitor will have eight hours to complete that project using durable, trade-quality timber and materials courtesy of ITM. The finished projects must meet minimum safety standards and will

be judged by a panel of experienced building practitioners and industry educators. The judges will be assessing a range of building elements, including quality of the craftsmanship, assembly, ability to work to a detailed plan, safe working technique and time management.

Apprentices can enter by visiting https://apprenticechallenge.nz/howto-get-involved/ and filling out the entry form. Entries must be received

by Friday 26 March.

The NZCB Apprentice Challenge Sponsored by ITM is held in association with ITAB, with support from the Apprenticeship Scholarship Trust.

6

Wednesday March 17, 2021

inbrief news

Exclusive rapid relief team

Cleanfill CLG meeting The next CLG meeting is at Bilberbeck Hall at 103 Main Road Wainuiomata (the Lions Club) from 7-9 pm Thursday 25 March.

Also invited to attend is Paul Duffin as he may be able to assist the CLG members with questions regarding compliance.

By: Gerald Rillstone

More EV chargers Wellington’s use of electric vehicle (EV) chargers has tripled in the last six months, and almost 11,000 Wellingtonians are now members of car share schemes – but that’s just the start in reducing emissions around the city.

Combined, Mevo and Cityhop have 100 cars, some of which are hybrid or electric, and Wellington City Council provides around 30 car parks for these vehicles with more planned.

A 2020 survey of Wellington car share members suggests that every car share vehicle replaces up to 11 private vehicles.

Ginny Andersen

MP for Hutt South

Wainuiomata 04 564 4988 Petone 04 568 2949

YO U R L O CA L N E W S

See us online www.wsn.co.nz

/GinnyAndersenMP

Authorised by Ginny Andersen MP, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

Wednesday March 10, 2021

Today 12-19

Thursday 11-16

Friday 11-16

Saturday 11-18

Phone: (04) 587 1660

Community support needed Students battle for policy change *LQQ\ $QGHUVHQ

See us online www.wsn.co.nz

YO U R L O CA L N E W S

Petone 04 568 2949 :DLQXLRPDWD JLQQ\DQGHUVHQPS

When the chips are down there is one team that can be counted on to cater in a crisis the Exclusive Brethren Rapid Relief Team (RRT).

D u r i ng la st we ek s EMAT training at Camp Wainuiomata feeding the team undergoing training fell on a hardy group of volunteers deployed from the Exclusive Brethren Rapid Relief Team.

Based in Lower Hutt the team is part of a New Zealand wide organisation to support emergency agencies.

Team leader for the RRT Hutt region Arnie Wills says one example of the work they do is the Strawberry Festival held in Kapiti where they cook and sell food for the festival with the proceeds going to the Mary Potter Hospice.

“We all have day jobs and we take time off to volunteer, we are all from

different walks of life from a warehouse worker to a business owner,” he says.

“We are part of the Plymouth Brethren also know as the Exclusive Brethren and this is our charity wing.”

During the Christchurch earthquakes and the fires the team was also deployed to support and feed the emergency personnel.

“We have go trailers set up and dotted around the country and basically what happens if we get a call we deploy them and we have a fund raising purpose and we go to things like the Special Children’s Christmas Party in Porirua and cook bucket loads of sausages and bread.”

Some venues supply the food to be cooked and in other cases the RRT supply the food free of charge.

“We are funded by our Brethren businesses and so everyone puts a bit towards supporting the team,” Arnie says.

Team leader for the RRT Hutt region Arnie Wills at the EMAT exercise held at Camp Wainuiomata. Photo Gerald Rillstone.

Established by the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church (PBCC) in 2013, RRT offers quality catering assistance and tangible support to charities, government and emergency services confronting some of humankind’s greatest challenges. RRT adapts their benevolent support services to meet the need at hand. Whether it be fire,

drought or even a global pandemic, RRT volunteers bring hope to people in their time of need.

The RRT is part of a global organisation delivering help and hope to people across the globe with teams in Australia, the United Kingdom, North and South America, the Caribbean, Canada, New Zealand and throughout Europe.

* + +, +* $

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Wednesday August 19, 2020

Today 10-14

Thursday 11-15

Friday 10-14

Saturday 10-15

Phone: (04) 587 1660

MISSED AN ISSUE?

By: Gerald Rillstone A decision to grant an Integrated Community Pharmacy Services Agreement has stunned Wainuiomata Pharmacy owners Evan Choie and Ron Chin.

Continued on page 2.

Catch up online at www.wsn.co.nz

Calling for community support and a level playing field Wainuiomata Pharmacy owners Evan Choie and Ron Chin. Photo: Gerald Rillstone.

Got WASP NESTS?

doesn’t matter how many... only pay $92 once this season for all Common or German Wasp nests on your urban residential section.

SECURITY TRAINING đŏ ++'%*#ŏ0+ŏ $ *#!ŏ5+1.ŏ .!!.ĕ đŏ +0ŏ 1..!*0(5ŏ3+.'%*#ĕ đŏ +ŏ,.!2%+1/ŏ!4,!.%!* !ŏ*! !// .5 đŏ .+#. ))!ŏ /! ŏ%*ŏ +3!.ŏ 100

NZ Certificate in Security

www.pestproof.co.nz

(0800) 368 1095

www.hlc.ac.nz

By: Gerald Rillstone

JIM’S MOWING LOOKS AFTER of their studies at Wainuiomata High School a As partAND YOUR LAWNS GARDENSchosen to battle for change group of six students have to the Lower Hutt City Councils street naming policy.

s Hedges & pruning They say the current policy does require consultation s Rubbish Removal but the final decision for a name is left to the council s Odd Jobs making the consultation process pointless. s Guttering Cleared Continued on page 2. s Section Clean-ups

Young Maori activists from Wainuiomata High Jaden

EDUCATION TO EMPLOYMENT

Jacobs, Tajzhay Pouwhare,Robert Clarke.

CALL NOW

0800 454-654

www.Jimsmowing.co.nz

CHRIS BISHOP MP FOR HUTT SOUTH

E chrisbishopoffice@parliament.govt.nz F fb.com/chrisbishopmp o nz W h i bi h

Metlink website nominated

JIM’S MOWING LOOKS AFTER YOUR LAWNS AND GARDENS FRESH FISH DELIVERIES

s Hedges & pruning s Rubbish Removal s Odd Jobs

SEA SHORE

What’s Cooking... in Autumn Sausages Ingredients:

Method:

s 6-8 thick beef sausages s 1 large or 2 small swedes, peeled and diced, alternatively use potatoes s 1 onion, peeled and diced s 1 large or 2 small carrots, peeled and diced s 3-4 stalks celery, diced (reserve the tops) s 550 g can Wattie’s Just Add Mince Hearty Savoury Mince Simmer Sauce

1. Brown the sausages in a frying pan. Remove and cut into thick rounds.

2. Return to the pan and add the vegetables, Wattie’s Just Add Hearty Savoury Mince Simmer Sauce and 1 cup water. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.

3. Finely slice the celery leaves and add to the sausages with a seasoning of pepper just before serving with rice, pasta or potatoes.

Crockpot/Slow Cooker Instructions Place all ingredients in a slow cooker.

Cook on LOW for approximately 5-6 hours.

Serve as directed above.

Metlink is humbled to receive a nomination for the Access Alliance 2021 People’s Choice Accessible Business Awards which recognise local businesses and organisations that are improving accessibility to enable everyone to fully participate in society.

T h e awa r d s c e l e brate businesses that provide opportunities to learn, to get a job, to access goods, services, events and facilities, and to take part in community and social life.

Metlink’s website was nom inated by Access Advisors and the recognition falls under the Built Environment and Public Transport Category.

Metlink general manager Scott Gallacher says, “This nomination was really

humbling for the Metlink team and all those who have been involved in the process that started over a year ago.

“This is an awesome stepping stone for us in an ongoing commitment to improve the accessibility of our services that are here for our diverse community.”

Access Advisor managing director Dr Chandra Harrison who provided expertise in the development of the new Metlink site says the upgrade went through a rigorous process to assess its accessibility for a variety of needs.

“During the development of the new site, Access Advisors undertook usability and accessibility testing with people with real access needs and pro-

vided guidance to align the website to NZ Government Web Standards.

“We interviewed Wellington based members of our Research Panel who are Metlink users to gain greater understanding of the real needs of travellers with disabilities.

This gives people with disabilities a voice and an opportunity to be heard.

“Metlink’s approach shows a real commitment to achieving digital accessibility, going above compliance with guidelines, and aiming to achieve real accessibility,” Dr Harrison says.

Fi n a l i st vo t i ng i n the Built Environment and Public Transport Category will be open from Tuesday 16 to Sunday 21 March.

Wednesday March 17, 2021

OUT& & about

7

Photos: Gerald Rillstone

A perfect day to compete By: Gerald Rillstone With COVID restrictions out of the way Wainuiomata Intermediate School got underway with its annual athletics day.

Students d ressed up in colours representing their group and cheered each other on for what was a near perfect day with not too much sun and plenty of fun.

Aidyn Harris gets into the spirit of the event during Wainuiomata Intermediate School Athletics day.

Kayla Pasene gives the shot put her best.

Students make a dash for it during the Wainuiomata Intermediate School Athletics day.

Terina Awatere and Savanah Mason in house colours for the Wainuiomata Intermediate School Athletics day.

Eveigh Beal Mason dispatches the discus.

Ready to get underway following a chant off students line up to compete at the Wainuiomata Intermediate School Athletics day.

8

Wednesday March 17, 2021

5

GARDENING THIS WEEK MINUTES WITH

Nixon Awa Student z What food do you crave most often?

I really like teriyaki chicken sushi. z When you have had a bad day, what do you do to feel better?

I usually go home and eat, watch tv and chill out. z What’s one thing on your bucket list?

I would really like to go skydiving or bungy jumping. z Who has been the biggest inspiration in your life?

My parents. z What’s the most beautiful place you’ve ever been?

Mahia beach on Mahia Peninsula.

z What was the last photo you took?

Of my friends. z What thing do you really wish you could buy right now?

Chips doritos. z What is the best or worst purchase you’ve ever made?

I don’t really regret buying anything. z Favourite programme currently watching?

I like watching Shortland Street with my family. z If you had to flee the country, where would you choose to live?

I would go to Sydney Australia and see all of my family.

What to do during drought times: By Wally Richards

It’s a sad time for gardeners when water restrictions play havoc with your gardens.

The key to this is to reduce moisture loss so that what water that can be applied; whether it’s grey water or tap water, will stick around for a longer time.

Evaporation occurs from two sources; one is the soil and the other is out of the leaves of the plants.

The first can be reduced by placing a mulch or material over the soil after watering.

I have used the plastic bags that compost or potting mix comes in, sliced open and spread over the soil around plants to prevent moisture loss.

A lot of these bags are white which means they reflect light and heat which is better at this time of the year than using black plastic to absorb heat.

Plastic cordial bottles are ideal to use to water roses, shrubs and trees in dry times.

You cut off the end of the base of the bottle and then bury the neck and top of the bottle deep into the soil near the trunk of the plant. When you water you fill the bottle with water; the water will go down deep and not dry off as surface water does.

Mulch around the plant of plastic held in place by soil or rocks will ensure the tree or bush gets maximum benefit of the water.

Support the local businesses who support the area where you live, work and play.

SAM - s SAM WSN CO NZ LES - LES WSN CO NZ KATRINA - KATRINA WSN CO NZ

Established roses are very capable of handling a drought as they can go into summer dormancy.

Don’t feed or water and don’t prune.

The rose should recover (if the drought is not too long) in the autumn.

Moisture loss through the leaves of plants is very high in hot sunny days so we need to reduce this by spraying the foliage all over with Vaporgard.

This can reduce moisture loss by 30-40 percent and protect the foliage from damage. It will also help a little with insect and disease control on the plants.

Container plants will dry out quicker than open ground plants because of the exposure to the sun through the sides of the container.

Containers that can be moved should be placed in shaded areas and plastic or pebbles placed over the top of the mix to reduce moisture loss.

A spray all over with Vaporgard is a must to help keep the plants out of stress and alive.

Well established trees and shrubs have deep rooting systems so they will survive longer than shallow rooting plants. Unfortunately in times of long droughts they will eventually succumb.

If your trees and shrubs could do with a tidy-up, now is a good time to do so.

Thin them out by removing some branches cut back to the trunk. Don’t

just nip the ends off the branches as this causes new branching on the branch. You don’t want to encourage growth at this time.

After a tidy up you can spray what you are able with Vaporgard. Lawns will brown off and will recover in most cases when the rains come.

You may see playing fields of dry, brown grasses and think that it’s all dead; but no, when the rains come the grass regrows again. Grasses survive as long as their roots do not get cooked.

Thus it is best not to mow the brown grass leaves as these offer some protection from baking roots in the soil.

On lawns where water or rain has been applied and you see brown patches with nice green grass around the sides is a good indication of ‘dry spot’.

This is when the surface tension gets too much that water will not penetrate so it runs off to the side where it does seep in.

If this happens put warm water into your watering can and add a good squirt of dish washing liquid. Lather up by hand to make it nice and soapy and then water this over the dry spot.

It breaks surface tension and allows water to penetrate again allowing grasses to recover.

Problems?

Ring me at 0800 466 464.

Wednesday March 17, 2021

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Wednesday March 17, 2021

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Wainuiomata Rugby Football Club played host to Sky Sport The Breakdown.

The club was in the full spotlight last night with a live broadcast on Sky Sport this week with a host of legends.

Sir John Kirwan was there along with

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Wednesday March 17, 2021

SPORT

11

SPORTS TALK With Jacob Page

In a league of their own I’ve never been one to pick sides in sports.

The notion that you can’t like both rugby and league at the same time has always seemed archaic.

This year I’ve noticed the way I feel about viewing both sports to be a little different.

After the opening round of NRL, there can be little doubt that for a neutral fan, league is the much better product.

The game is far easier to un-

derstand, it’s faster and the rules encourage the ball being in play.

Rugby has tinkered with some laws to try to make the game more appealing but constant reset scrums chewing the clock, yellow cards for cynical play having a big say in the way the game is played and often hard to understand rules have left me cold.

I’ll always watch the Crusaders play as they are my team but after four straight titles I’ve become a little spoilt.

I’m not as emotionally invested in their season because of the over-flowing success of the team.

Sorry to rub your faces in it, particularly the battler fans of the Highlanders and Hurricanes but if the Crusaders get beaten, it just won’t be the end of the world to me.

Much like the All Blacks at the 2019 World Cup, when you’ve won the previous two tournaments, that thirst for victory from fans does start to subside.

When it comes to the NRL, I lost faith in the Warriors in 2007 and switched to the St George Illawarra Dragons.

I have accepted that this year, they will be battling to avoid the wooden spoon as one of the worst teams in the competition.

Having made peace with that likely outcome means I can watch the season largely as a passionless fan just looking to be entertained by the product.

After the opening round, it’s

clear which is the superior viewing product.

Sure, rugby league will never have the global reach of rugby but what it does have on its side and what rugby seriously lacks is simplicity.

Reset scrums, constant penalties and overzealous officials will continue to harm rugby.

League may be a little rough around the edges but it is a far more consistent spectacle weekin and week-out.

Wainuiomata comes up short

By Justin Morgan

The Wainui first eleven played Hutt Districts on Saturday and came up short with a 3 wicket loss. Batting first Tim Wilson was the best performer with 44 and extras were next top scorer with 34 to help Wainui through to 159. In reply, Jason Logan bowled well with figures for 4 for 20 but Wainui self-destructed with regular dropped catches as Hutt reached the total with plenty of time to spare. The result leaves Wainui mid table in the Division 3 competition with the last game this Sunday vs Johnsonville at Bryan Health park. Wainui 2nds had a comfortable 10 wicket win vs Easts in their 2 day game.

After a big first innings lead to Wainui and needing to bat all day, Easts tried hard batting 74 overs but their slow approach meant Wainui only had to chase 18 for the win. Chris Ingram was best of the bowlers with 4 for 39 and the win confirms promotion to Division 6 next year. The 40 over team had a 77 run win vs Upper Hutt with Brent Baikie scoring 97 not out in Wainui’s 197 total.

In reply, Upper Hutt were bowled our for 120 with Glen Ryan getting 3 for 21. Team Brownie in the T20 competition posted 181 batting first with Matt Little top scoring with 68 but it was not enough with Upper Hutt chasing the total down for a 7 wicket win and an over to spare.

Tim Wilson makes a dash for it during the match Fourth batsman to the crease during the match between Hutt Districts and Wainuiomata. Photo against Hutt Districts Filiva’a Tafuna’I. Photo Gerald Rillstone.

Gerald Rillstone.

Parliamentarians vs Diplomats

National list MP for Hutt South Chris Bishop during the Parliamentary Cricket game against a team from the Diplomatic Corps held at Brian Heath Park. Photo supplied.

Every year since 1974 the Parliamentary Cricket team has played a match against a team from the Diplomatic Corps in Wellington.

This year the match was hoste d by Wa i nu iomat a Cricket Club at Bryan Heath Park in Wainuiomata on Sunday with players in the MP team including Chris Bishop MP , Kieran McAnulty MP, James McDowall from ACT, Michael Wood from Labour,

SPORTS TIPS

and Todd McClay from National.

Chris says it was good fun at Bryan Heath Park in Wainuiomata for the Parliamentary Cricket Team’s annual match against the Diplomats.

Chris’s side was sent in to bat and the team put on an impressive 184 in 25 overs, with Kieran McAnulty MP scoring 51 retiring.

“I chipped in with 32 towards the end.

We thought that would be enough runs but the Diplomats chased it down in the 24th over. Close game.

Happy with my 1-25 from 4 overs.

Thanks to Craig Foster and the Wainuiomata Cricket Club for hosting us for the day.

Sadly we lost the Shield, first time since 2017,” Chris says.

Send your sports news and results to Gerald at wainui@wsn.co.nz

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Wednesday March 17, 2021

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