20 October Independent Herald

From crisis to credibility

By Jacob Page

Things are looking up both on and off the field at Johnsonville Rugby Football Club.

Johnsonville won the inaugural Board of Directors Award at the Wellington Rugby Awards to cap what has proven to be a resurgence for the club in all areas over the past few years.

Chairperson Blair Hannah says it gave his board, volunteers and supporters a chance to reflect on how far they have come.

“It wasn’t that long ago, we were sitting in the clubrooms, in crisis discussions talking about whether we could continue as a premier clubthis is dating back four years ago now “When we think about the journey from that point to now, there’s been a lot of hard graft, a lot of smart innovation.”

Continued on page 2.

Johnsonville Rugby trio head of rugby Susan Poutoa, chairperson Blair Hannah and treasurer Susan Atkins accept the inaugural Board of Directors Award at the Wellington Rugby Awards.

Johnsonville rugby finds its way again

“It’s about trying to build this connectivity and create this community, family feel and we know that while we have been doing that, we do have some way to go.”

Blair says he was surprised but thrilled to win the award on a night the club’s all-conquering under-85kg Terrahawks were nominated for team of the year and Head of Rugby Susan Poutoa was up for volunteer of the year.

“I think the under-85s had a dominant season and Susan deserves so much credit for all the work she does behind the scenes here which can go unnoticed to most but makes a massive impact on the club every day,” Blair says.

Blair says the award is a motivator to keep going.

“I think it sends a signal that we are on the right track and this is the time of year that we don’t

want to take the foot off the pedal and we’re trying to map out next year and the next couple of years to try to bolster the participation and success on the field which isn’t easy.”

Blair says player recruitment and retention remained a focus.

“We’ve often had talented players who have gone to the bigger clubs out of high schools in our area.

“We’ve also had people in rugby coaching and leadership roles for a number of seasons now which was not necessarily the case five or six years ago and it allows us to think of succession planning going into the future,” Blair says.

“Planning and preparation off the field leads to success on the field both in the junior and senior ranks and that’s what we want over the next few seasons.”

Pink Ribbon volunteer encourages others to come forward

A breast cancer survivor from Tawa is urging people in Wellington to support Breast Cancer Foundation NZ’s Pink Ribbon Street Appeal on 28 and 29 October.

Jules Nicholas was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2020 at the age of 50, following a routine mammogram.

Jules says: “As we went into lockdown I underwent surgery and then two weeks later started chemo by myself as no family support was allowed into the hospital. I faced 12 weeks of chemo, followed by radiation.

Through it all, Breast Cancer Foundation’s nurses were a conduit of strength.

“I am proud to be a survivor, I am proud to promote the Foundation and I hope that other women who follow with this diagnosis can benefit from the good work the Foundation does. I also hope others will get involved locally to support this

amazing cause.”

Breast cancer is the leading cause of death for New Zealand women under 65 and every year around 360 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in the greater Wellington region.

Each October, around 10,000 volunteers take to the streets to raise vital funds for Breast Cancer Foundation NZ’s work in research, education, advocacy and patient support. The charity is still looking for volunteers to collect across the region and the deadline to sign up is midday on 27 October.

Ah-Leen Rayner, chief executive of Breast Cancer Foundation NZ, says: “The Pink Ribbon Street Appeal is one of our biggest fundraisers but last year it couldn’t go ahead in many places due to Covid-19 restrictions. As a charity that receives no Government funding, that’s taken a huge toll on our programmes at a time when we’re facing increasing

A breast cancer survivor from Tawa is urging people in Wellington to support Breast Cancer Foundation NZ’s Pink Ribbon Street Appeal on 28 and 29 October.

demand for our support services.

“It’s only thanks to the goodwill of New Zealanders that we can be there for patients during their treatment and recovery, fund innovative research to find new breakthroughs and educate women about the importance of

early detection. So please, show your support by giving two hours to shake a pink bucket, or donate generously to a Pink Ribbon collector near you.”

People can sign up for a twohour collection shift in their area at pinkribbonvolunteer.org.nz.

Wellington’s first Calisthenics park

For the last few years, the Wellington Calisthenics community has been using the Pirie Street play area by the Mount Victoria tunnel as their main, and only, outdoor training location in the city. When the playground came up for renewal in 2021,

Wellington City Council noticed that the Calisthenics-friendly area would be taken away so work began with the community to understand what they needed to continue training in the city.

Now, the first-ever Calisthenics Park has come to life next to the renewed Pirie Street play area.

Take part in Recycling Week

Recycling right is simple, everyday climate action we can take to save resources from going to landfill and help look after our taiao (environment).

Recycling Week is a national campaign to raise awareness of recycling practices and overall waste minimisation.

Take the time this week to review your recycling habits, or learn more about recycling through Our Wellington.

67 trips on Wellington city bus routes to be temporarily suspended

From Monday 17 October, 67 trips on Metlink’s bus network will be temporarily suspended to improve the reliability of service for bus customers during the national driver shortage.

Morning and afternoon peak trips will be suspended across 14 Wellington city bus routes with the Metlink website and app detailing the trips affected, allowing customers to plan ahead.

Metlink General Manager Samantha Gain said the national driver shortage is affecting customers and operators across Metlink’s entire network, but

particularly in Wellington city.

“We want to minimise the uncertainty felt by bus customers and we’ve worked with the operator to introduce temporary suspensions which will remove trips from our higher frequency routes or less patronised services to better allocate available drivers and improve reliability.

“While temporary suspensions aren’t a solution to the driver shortage, they will give customers more certainty and bring at least some relief to some passengers.”

Metlink is further preparing for next Monday’s changes to

service by moving larger buses onto routes with suspended trips to compensate for the reduced frequency.

“Despite more and more people working from home, during the morning and afternoon peak on these routes, affected customers may find their bus is more full than usual,” said Ms Gain.

“Operators will also prioritise trips on these routes to avoid consecutive cancellations where possible.

“We are doing everything we can at an operational level to reduce the level and impact of cancellations and provide the

best service we can.

“At a national level, there are promising movements around driver recruitment for the industry, including recent lobbying to the government to change immigration settings.

“However, in the short term we are still at an undeniable statistical disadvantage, needing an additional 120 drivers for a full complement.”

As a result, unplanned cancellations will be unavoidable at times said Ms Gain.

Metlink advises customers to continue to check the website and app before they travel and plan their journey.

Starting this past Monday, 67 trips on Metlink’s bus network will be temporarily suspended to improve the reliability of service for bus customers during the national driver shortage.

CPR training draws 500

More than 500 people took part in free community CPR training on Friday 14 October, as Wellington Free Ambulance recognised Restart a Heart Day by providing free CPR demonstrations and quick one-onone training sessions all day at Wellington Airport.

Restart a Heart Day takes place every year on 16 October. To acknowledge the day, each year Wellington Free Ambulance joins forces with the Council of Ambulance Authorities and other ambulance services around the world to collectively raise awareness about sudden cardiac arrests and train as many people as possible in CPR and how to use an AED.

A sudden cardiac arrest is a medical emergency that can strike anyone, at any time, at any age, anywhere. It could happen to a toddler in bed, a 22-year-old athlete

on a sports field, a hardworking middle-aged mum at home, or a grandfather enjoying his retirement.

Every week, on average six people in Greater Wellington/Wairarapa will suffer a sudden cardiac arrest.

Survival rates can be increased by up to 80% with early CPR and the use of an AED, and this is why it is really important to Wellington Free Ambulance that as many people as possible are trained to know these essential, life-saving skills.

Wellington Airport’s Brand and Sponsorship Manager Jo Maxwell says the airport is thrilled with the large number of people taking part.

“Learning CPR only takes a few minutes but can potentially save lives. We were very proud to support this cause by hosting Wellington Free Ambulance, and we had an excellent response from travellers,” says Jo.

Do you have ‘Working from Home Footstrain”?!

During the period of the Covid pandemic, a good portion of our patients have been working at home. Many folks wore slippers all day and have now discovered that their feet complain when put back into work shoes. Others have sore heels or arches, which feel worse on first standing in the morning. At Active Feet Podiatry we have seen a large increase in these type of problems. Dr Halpine can help give relief for problems such as issues with nails, painful feet or corns or callouses. We also will be able to remove hard skin and make your feet feel like new! Bring your work and sport shoes and Dr Halpine can give advice regarding selecting the right shoe and ascertain if you are in need of additional support, ie orthotic devices.

Dr Tim Halpine of Active Feet Podiatry is open and ready to sort out your feet. We are located at floor 2, 85 the Terrace and also at the Ngaio Medical Centre. We can be reached for booking a consult on 04 473 8696, ActiveFeetPodiatry.com

Rachel Evans, Senior Heartbeat Coordinator at Wellington Free Ambulance, comments, “Our message is simple. You don’t need to be a paramedic to save someone’s life. You just need to be able to perform CPR and know how to use an AED. We want as many people as possible to learn how to do this.”

For those who didn’t have the opportunity to learn CPR at Wellington Airport on Friday, Wellington Free Ambulance also offers CPR training courses year round. Thanks to the very generous support of Julie Nevett and The Lloyd Morrison Foundation, this training is provided completely free of charge for the Greater Wellington and Wairarapa community. Over the past year Wellington Free Ambulance has trained almost 2,000 people through this programme, which is available to businesses, schools and commu-

nity groups throughout the Greater Wellington and Wairarapa region.

Rachel Evans comments, “Anyone and everyone can learn CPR and make a life-changing difference. It’s really easy to learn – we’ve taught people from age 5 to 95. Absolutely

anyone can give it a go.”

For more information about Wellington Free Ambulance, please visit https://www.wfa.org.nz

To book a free CPR training course, visit www.wfa.org.nz/ heartbeat

Freyberg Pool and facilities to close for maintenance

Freyberg Pool and facilities will close in December for up to two months for its six-yearly routine maintenance and improvements.

The full site will close Monday 19 December, with Club Active facilities expected to re-open 23 January, and full pool access re-opening mid-February with some minor disruption due to on-going works.

Work includes replacing both spa pools with new bigger units, improving reception and the front entrance, refurbishment of changing rooms, upgraded sauna and steam rooms, and programmed maintenance of the pool area.

Wellington City Council does work on all its indoor

pools every 5-6 years as part of a planned scheduled maintenance programme.

Dates of closure have been chosen for the summer and school holiday months to have the least impact on pool and gym members, swim clubs, and visitors, and work will be prioritised to allow the facility to re-open as soon as possible.

Club Active will be running free activations for members around the Freyberg facility during this period including running groups, small group training, and group fitness classes.

Memberships can be used at other Council pool and gym facilities around the city, or memberships can be suspended

in the meantime.

Thorndon Pool will have a slightly later opening of Saturday 12 November this season due to ongoing staffing constraints, and to coincide with tertiary students being available for work.

At this stage Khandallah Pool will open on time for the full

season on Saturday 3 December, including two additional weekends in early March.

Any updates or changes to this plan will be communicated closer to the time.

For more information about Freyberg Pool and facilities visit the project page at wellington.govt.nz/freyberg-closure

More than 500 people took part in free community CPR training on Friday 14 October, as Wellington Free Ambulance recognised Restart a Heart Day by providing free CPR demonstrations.

The Freyberg Pool full site will close Monday 19 December, with Club Active facilities expected to re-open 23 January, and full pool access re-opening mid-February with some minor disruption due to on-going works.

Have a grand old time this Heritage Week

Wellington Heritage Week is back for its sixth year celebrating the region’s many people, places and stories.

Wellington City Council is once again a proud sponsor of this festival with over 60 events, walks, talks and activities happening around Te-Whanganui-a-Tara – most of which are free or koha, but many need booking.

Join one of the many walking tours, including Scandalous Stories, Murder & Mayhem in Mt Victoria, a Circa Theatre historical tour, or have a Tiptoe through the Tombstones at Bolton Street Cemetery.

Friends of Karori Cemetery will be hosting numerous talks and walks including Tales from the Vaults, Grave Finding and a Murder and Mayhem Tour.

Go behind the scenes at Wellington City Archives, experience an open day at Futuna Chapel in Karori, or go on a heritage themed urban treasure hunt.

Mayor-elect Tory Whanau says the historical diversity and multicultural influences make Wellington an interesting city from a heritage point of view.

“One of P neke’s most important features is its historic buildings from a wide range of architectural periods, which contribute towards the unique character of the capital city.

“We, as a Council, contribute towards the maintenance of our heritage through funding, support and advice, plus resilience, conservation and preservation programmes to ensure future generations can enjoy, appreciate and learn from the past as well.”

Festival Director Alex Hockley says that interest in heritage is alive and well in the region.

“Wellington Heritage Week is community

Wellington City Council is once again a proud sponsor of this festival with over 60 events, walks, talks and activities happening around Te-Whanganui-a-Tara.

sourced. Our role is to highlight all the passionate people and groups who are already engaged with history around Te-Whanganuia-Tara.”

“Communities tend to share the people, places, and stories which they connect to or feel intrigued by,” says Alex.

“This leads to a lot of diversity in festival events. There’s tales of historic figures from the rainbow community, built and engineering heritage, cultural and arts experiences, and so much more.”

Cemeteries & Crematoria Week is coinciding with Heritage Week this year, highlighting the value of these special places and encouraging our communities to engage and learn a little more about them.

Wellington Heritage Week runs from 24 Oct – 6 Nov. Visit wellingtonheritageweek. co.nz to see the full list of events.

Cemeteries & Crematoria Week runs from 31 Oct – 6 Nov. Visit NZ Cemeteries Crematoria site for more information about events around the region.

Experience 8 days in one of New Zealand’s most remote and unique places. The Chatham Islands are the closest most New Zealanders can get to international travel without packing their passport.

Experience 8 days in one of New Zealand’s most remote and unique places. The Chatham Islands are the closest most New Zealanders can get to international travel without packing their passport.

Tour #43 is for 8 days & 7 nights on Chatham X Auckland

Tour #40 is for 8 days & 7 nights on Chatham X Wellington

Sat 4th June 2022, departs Auckland 1.30pm - arrive Chatham Islands 4.30pm

Mon 9th Jan 2023 departs Wellington 2.00pm arrive Chatham Islands 4.00pm

Sat 11th June 2022, departs Chatham Islands 8.30am - arrive Auckland 10.30am

Mon 16th Jan 2023 departs Chatham Islands 9.00am arrive Wellington 11.00am

Tour #44 is for 8 days & 7 nights on Chatham X Wellington

Mon 20th June 2022, departs Wellington 2.00pm - arrive Chatham Islands 4.30pm

Mon 27th June 2022, departs Chatham Islands 9.45am - arrive Wellington 11.15am

Tour #46 is for 8 days & 7 nights on Chatham X Christchurch Tues 4th April 2023, departs Christchurch 2.00pm - arrive Chatham Islands 4.30pm Tues 11th April 2023, departs Chatham Islands 9.30am - arrive Christchurch 11.00am

Tour #45 is for 8 days & 7 nights on Chatham X Christchurch

Tues 12th July 2022, departs Christchurch 2.00pm - arrive Chatham Islands 4.45pm

Tues 19th July 2022, departs Chatham Islands 9.30am - arrive Christchurch 11.00am

Tour #46 is for 8 days & 7 nights on Chatham X Christchurch and incorporates “Festival of Science week”

Tue 16th Aug, 2022 departs Christchurch 2.00pm - arrive Chatham Islands 4.30pm

Tue 23rd Aug, 2022 departs Chatham Islands 9.30am - arrive Christchurch 11.00am

is for 8 days & 7 nights on Chatham X Whanganui

Sun 2rd Oct 2022 departs Whanganui 7.00am arrive Chatham 9.45 am (CI)

Sun 9th Oct 2022 departs Chatham 5.15pm arrive Whanganui 6.30pm All-inclusive from $4,725 -- $4,925

Funded by the Parliamentary Service. Authorised by Nicola Willis, Parliament Buildings, Parliament, Wellington.

If they drop a nuclear bomb, Russia would be wiped off the earth.

readers have their say... Find out the

on

It wouldn’t be good. We will get affected, but not as much as Russia or America or the Ukraine.

America will retaliate and it will start the Third World War. We are all hopeful they don’t drop a nuclear bomb.

I think it could be the end of the world. The whole thing is going to escalate and I don’t think we will recover from it.

It will be devastating. I think it will start a world war.

It will start World War Three.

Age isn’t a barrier to being active and having fun

Confidence building, trying new activities, and having fun are just some of the reasons why adults aged 65+ will be attending the annual Senior Regional Games on 8 November from 10.00am-2.00pm at the ASB Sports Centre in Kilbirnie.

Free to attend, attendees get to choose to ‘have-a-go’ at Badminton, Spin Poi, Rock’n Roll dancing, Indoor Bowls, Pickleball, Table Tennis, Walking Netball, M ri games, chair-based exercises, and sessions delivered by Live Stronger for Longer instructors. Board games will also be avail-

able, and a light lunch will be provided for participants at midday as well as the café being open.

Organised by Nuku Ora and the ASB Sports Centre, the Senior Regional Games are an annual event which provides older adults with the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of fun, light-exercise sports and activities. Janice Murrell, Community Development Lead - Older People at Nuku Ora said, “It’s not a competitive event – it’s all about having fun and the participants focusing on what their bodies can do, not

what they can’t do!”

Attracting attendees from across the wider Wellington region, feedback from previous years has always been very positive with participants saying that they valued trying new activities, meeting new people, and having fun.

As well as benefiting the participants, the event also provides an opportunity for programme providers to showcase their activity and encourage new participants. Attendees will get useful take-away information regarding the classes and activities available in

their areas and spot prizes will be given out during the day.

Participants are asked to register so that numbers can be catered for. The registration form and more information can be found at www.nukuora.org.nz/about/events/seniorregional-games/

Alternatively, people can email Janicem@ nukuora.org.nz to answer questions or assist with taking group registrations.

A Senior Regional Games in the Wairarapa will take place in March 2023 with organisation for it getting underway soon.

Listening to life stories a gift for Leanne

Huntleigh Home chaplain Leanne Munro says she has one of the best jobs in the world.

“I get to sit with senior citizens and talk to them about their lives, listen to them and hear some amazing stories about them, their families, and their past.

“Talking to people who have lived long lives and experienced a lot is actually quite a gift.”

Leanne, who is a Presbyterian minister, has been working with Enliven since 2004, when she was chaplain at multiple Enliven homes. She then left to be a full-time mum before re-joining Enliven as a chaplain in 2017.

She is currently the chaplain at Enliven’s Huntleigh Home in Karori.

Her role mainly involves providing pastoral care. She says she will talk about religion with those who wish to, but often just sits and chats with residents about themselves and their families.

“I am the chaplain to everybody who is here regardless of their spiritual beliefs or their faith connections.

“I am someone who is not an HCA, who is not a nurse, who is not the manger, and that allows me to give a different perspective.”

When the first Covid-19 lockdown happened in 2020, and Huntleigh Home had to shut to visitors, Leanne worked extra hours as pastoral care became even more

Leanne Munro says it is a gift to talk to people who have lived long lives and experienced a lot.

important. She interacted with residents in a variety of ways, perhaps not normally associated with a chaplain, such as learning to play indoor bowls.

Leanne also runs a bible study class once a week for a small group of residents and does special services on occasions such as Easter or Christmas.

Huntleigh Home is looking for more great people to join the team. There are roles in nursing, caring and in the kitchen. If you, or someone you know is looking for a fun and rewarding role, visit enlivencentral. org.nz/jobs or email: recruitment@psc. org.nz. PBA.

Enliven positive ageing services has a range of exciting job opportunities available

Q: What do you think will happen if Russia drops a nuclear bomb on the Ukraine?

Derek Keatley

Ruth Robertson

Joan BarnesPaul King

Jenny King

Kevin Hartley

Board games back in big way

Wellycon, New Zealand’s largest annual international board game convention, will once again take place at the Indian Cultural Centre in Kilbirnie Wellington this Labour weekend, 22-23 October 2022. Over 1000 board gamers of all ages will be welcomed for a weekend full of hundreds of games and plenty of fun. The popular board game “Everdell” serves as our theme this year and is reflected in the artwork of the event.

The Play-to-win section will return to Wellycon with over a hundred high quality games from international publishers and designers to trial by attendees for a chance to win a copy. Attendees will also have the chance to trial games in the development phase and meet the game designers at the Prototype event as well. Wellycon is a chance to meet your board game heroes and preview new games. People new to

board games can spend time at the Learn to Play section and explore this fun new hobby.

“The thing I like about Wellycon is the sense of joy when I stop and look around. Everyone is having fun with people they may never have met before, learning something new and relaxing in the welcoming community-feel of the place. It kind of doesn’t matter where we are, the community is what makes Wellycon Wellycon.” says Ceedee Doyle, Wellycon chair. To illustrate that community focus, Wellycon has introduced Community Tickets available to organisations or people in need. In addition to tickets Wellycon has set aside, other players have the chance to buy a community ticket as a pay-it-forward act of kindness. “We’ve seen incredible generosity and now have quite a few free community tickets to give away!” says new committee member Rowan Winters.

Thank you!

2022

local voice to the city

Tony Randle

Wellycon, New Zealand’s largest annual international board game convention, will once again take place at the Indian Cultural Centre in Kilbirnie over Labour Weekend.

One planted every four seconds

A plant was put in the ground every four seconds around the Wellington Region during Greater Wellington’s 2021 and 2022 winter planting seasons.

Numbers released by Greater Wellington show that over 400,000 plants found new homes between June and August 2021. In 2022, this more than doubled to 850,000, of which 62 percent were native.

Greater Wellington’s General Manager of Catchment Management Wayne O’Donnell said the numbers told a story of resilience, hard work and partnerships, while the result is crucial for environmental efforts across the region.

“Not only do these plants make the places we live and play look beautiful, but they also help increase biodiversity, prevent soil erosion, remove greenhouse gases and improve water quality.”

“Our planting happens and is funded in many ways. Farmers, community and mana whenua support, and our own resources all contribute. There’s also the co-funded Crown projects - One Billion Trees, Jobs for Nature, K noa - Regional Economic Development & Investment Unit, and through our Low Carbon Acceleration Fund.”

At the root of this success was considerable support from our mana whenua partners, community groups and members of public alike across the region said Mr

O’Donnell.

“This outpouring of support has hugely contributed to the milestone of 1.25 million plants and we want to say a huge thank you to all those involved over both planting seasons”.

Resilience, hard work and a newly formed partnership were on display at a recent planting day in Lower Hutt’s East Harbour Regional Park, in large part thanks to the Government’s Mahi te Taiao (Jobs for Nature) programme.

Te awa ki K piti who, alongside Greater Wellington, were involved in a 2020 Jobs for Nature funded restoration project in Waikanae joined members of the Hem of Remutaka project, which also under Jobs for Nature, are being funded to undertake restoration work from Eastbourne to Turakirae.

“These were just two of the community groups who alongside members of the public and Greater Wellington staff planted well over ten thousand plants in the park this winter.”, said East Harbour Regional Park ranger Jo Greenman.

“Getting plants in the ground at Baring Head and Parangarahu was the work that brought both groups together and while the blustery weather on the exposed coast blew everyone around a bit, there were smiles all round as we could all get to know one another and share in the collective outcome of ecological restoration.”

That collective outcome is realised in several ways, including through restoration work supported by Greater Wellington’s Community Environment Fund, a joint initiative with Te R nanga o Toa Rangatira which supports the work of restoration groups in the Te Awarua o Porirua whaitua.

Through the Kids Enhancing Tawa Ecosystems programme (KETE), Students from 8 Tawa based schools including a college, an intermediate and 6 primary schools are hoping to restore the mauri of Takap Valley, Tawa with restorative planting and are well on their way with over seven thousand plants in the ground already.

“We’re thrilled to support the programme by providing the plants and various equipment through our Community Environment Fund”, said Sharli-Jo from Te R anga o Toa Rangatira.

Although not included in the total number of the plants for the past two planting seasons, it’s the learnings for these students that hold the real value.

As well as planting projects, students are involved in a wide range of activities including learning about pest plant and animal control, doing litter clean-ups and telling others about what they can do to improve their local stream health.

“It’s fab to see children learning about te Taiao and the reason for more trees in their world.

“Kia kaha kia manawa nui.”

Wellington Curtain Bank in need of help

The Wellington Curtain Bank needs the public’s help to keep operating, so they can continue to dress the windows of families in need and keep material waste out of landfill.

Since the Curtain Bank started in 2010 over 17,500 sets of curtains have gone out to over 4,800 families. We take donated curtains and retrofit them to ensure they are lined and measured for the windows of families in need across the region.

from Genesis, Sustainability Trust supports the Curtain Bank with substantial levels of funding, and we need help to ensure we can continue to help Wellington families in need.

Many thanks to all of you for giving me your number 1 vote to make me Number 1 in Onslow-Western! All your support and help was invaluable and I’m indebted to all of you! Being in council epitomises my old college motto, “Qui Servit Ille Maximus” (Who Serves is Greatest.”)

The Curtain Bank has two members of staff, supported by an incredible team of 30 volunteers. Last year, the vollies donated a whopping 4,045 hours, sorting, measuring, unpicking, cleaning, sewing and packing curtains. Over the last 12 years, we have kept 78 tonnes of material waste out of landfill and 93 tonnes of Co2 out of the atmosphere.

Each year, despite generous sponsorship

Since the Wellington Curtain Bank started in 2010 over 17,500 sets of curtains have gone out to over 4,800 families.

Curtain Bank Co-ordinator Amanda Ashby says “We don’t receive government funding, and curtains are not currently included in The Healthy Homes Standards, meaning that rental properties are not required to provide window coverings – something we are working with others to change.”

Sustainability Trust CEO Georgie Ferrari added “We need to raise $150,000 to ensure this important Wellington-based programme can continue helping families in hardship to have warmer homes. If every Wellingtonian gave just $3 we could keep the Curtain Bank running for the next few years!”.

You can donate here: https://wellingtoncurtain-bank.raisely.com/

Numbers released by Greater Wellington show that over 400,000 plants found new homes between June and August 2021. In 2022, this more than doubled to 850,000, of which 62 percent were native.

thanks!

Ray

Onslow duo become world champs Familiar trio apart of fours success

A pair of Onslow cricketers became world champions over the weekend as the New Zealand Under-22 indoor cricket team won their World Cup fi nal in Australia.

Michah Conroy and Matt Scoble were part of the victorious team after a big win over Australia in the fi nal.

The U22 Men accomplished a comprehensive victory in their final, winning 95 – 56 against the championship defending Australians.

The New Zealand U22 Women edged out their Australian counterparts in a closely contested match, only one run deciding New Zealand as eventual winners (89-88).

The winners of the Johnsonville men’s graded fours were found over the weekend.

The format for the five teams playing was four rounds of ten ends. Byes caused by the uneven number of teams counted as a win.

After two rounds, Bruce Henderson’s four, with two

played wins and a bye to come, already looked like possible winners, however they were beaten in a tight third game by the team skipped by Allan Brider. Other results meant that all four games needed to be played to find the winner. At the end of play three teams each had three wins (including

byes) and it took a countback of ends and differentials to confirm the winning team as Bruce Henderson (s), Isi Taito (3), Kevin McAlister (2) and Neil Hargreaves (lead). This is the same team that won the event last season, except that Kevin replaced Andrew Barclay.

6Power saving Tips? YIP!

Hey Everyone! Inflation is up, and with it, so is the cost of living – so most households are making every dollar stretch a little further. And while the discounts might be obvious when you swap one brand of cheese for another, there are even bigger savings to be made, right at home. With a house that’s more efficient to heat and cool, you’ll shrink your energy bill and your environmental impact along with it.

1. Install a smart meter

What uses the most energy in your home? How much would you save by switching to LEDs or turning appliances off at the wall? You can answer those questions with a smart meter, which lets you track, in 30-min increments, how much energy you’re using. Seeing that data will let you focus on getting the biggest wins and can be motivating too! To get a smart meter installed, start by talking to your energy retailer.

2. Insulate top to bottom

Insulation is a game changer – it keeps the warmth and cool in. For most homes, insulating can be relatively fast and cheap –well-fitting bats in your roof and a moisture barrier makes a significant difference. You’ll use your heater less in winter and will find your home stays cooler as the weather heats up. That adds up to more comfortable, affordable living and less environmental impact. Remember that insulation is a requirement under the Healthy Homes initiative, so get your home ready for your next stage in life for your next project.

3. Insulate side to side

Hang thermal-backed curtains and blinds. Those beautiful big windows could be stealing your energy – you lose a lot of heat through glass, even if your windows are double-glazed. Invest in floor-to-ceiling thermal curtains or blinds to trap warm air

in and check for any loose latches or warped frames that can create drafty gaps. You can get these very cheap when on special.

4. Swap in energy-efficient appliances You could be surprised at how energy-hungry that old dryer and fridge can be. Swap it out for 5 star rated appliances and you’ll see those energy savings creep up without having to do a thing. As an extra environmental bonus, your new appliances will save on water and probably work better too – no need to run dirty plates through the dishwasher twice.

5. Hot water thermostat

You may find your hot water system is running way too hot and you are just wasting that heat by mixing more cold water. Run your hot water at the hottest it can go and see if it is too high! You can save serious $$ by adjusting your thermostat down a little

6. Light up with LEDs

The simplest way to reduce energy use is to swap your old incandescent bulbs for energy-efficient LEDs. These are super cheap to buy now and easy to install. LED can use up to 85% less power than traditional incandescent or halogen bulbs and can last 15 times longer too!

Whether you go for the big upgrades or start small, getting your home more efficient will keep money in the bank and help you live more sustainably. Have a great week everyone!

Survey shows aroha for Poneke

Wellingtonians love where they live and have pride in the look and feel of our city, according to a survey.

The two-yearly Nielsen Quality of Life survey questioned 6,900 residents in New Zealand’s biggest cities – Wellington, Porirua, Hutt, Christchurch, Dunedin, Hamilton, Auckland and Tauranga.

It found Wellingtonians rate their city highly in terms of quality of life and pride in their city’s look and feel.

Almost eight out of ten Wellingtonians (79%) view the city as a great place to live. Wellingtonians have the greatest pride in their city of all the residents of the eight cities polled, with more than six out of ten (61%) taking pride in the look and feel of the capital city.

Furthermore, nine out of ten (89%) Wellingtonians say they have a very good quality of life.

Although, fi nancial well-being and COVID-19 have created strain in some areas.

Wellington Mayor-elect Tory Whanau says: “People are telling us Wellington City is a great place to live and they have great pride in their city-wide communities – but there is quite a lot of mahi to be done to recover from the challenges of the past few years.”

climate change actions over the past 12 months.

City safety is a top priority with an increasing percentage of Wellingtonians saying they felt unsafe in the city at night – 52% in 2022, compared to 34% in 2020.

Begging and rough sleeping are also viewed as issues for the city (82% and 84% respectively).

Survey respondents shared other concerns around traffic (74%), parking (67%) and water pollution (67%).

“Council and our stakeholders including iwi, and community, business and government agencies are engaged with work to address these concerns raised in the survey,” says Mayor-elect Tory Whanau.

“The Council’s neke Promise has already started to improve public spaces, reduce harm and increase business confidence, and Council’s working with central government and community support agencies to address the issues around begging and rough sleeping.

“I take confidence from the survey that the majority of Wellingtonians believe we are working to a vision of an equitable, resilient and affordable city that celebrates its uniqueness, environment, diversity and culture,” she adds.

Written by William YIP Your friend in Real Estate

106 9997

One in two Wellingtonians say they are worried about climate change and have been undertaking a range of

A total of 610 respondents from Wellington City answered the survey. Read the full survey results on The Quality of Life Project website.

Bruce Henderson, left, Neil Hargreaves, Isi Taito and Kevin McAlister won the Johnsonville graded men’s four over the weekend.

Onslow’s Michah Conroy and Matt Scoble were part of the victorious New Zealand Under-22 indoor cricket team which won their World Cup final over Australia.

Wairarapa A&P Show is back for 2022!

It's been two years since the Spring Show has been able to be held but it is back this year 28th–30th October with a show that's packed with entertainment, livestock competitions, trade exhibits, a pet corner, scavenger hunt and much more! And of course there are the thrills and spills of Mahons rides and amusements.

Children can complete the Scavenger Hunt for those aged 3–13 years old with freebies and prizes to be won.

The fun starts Friday night, with the Night Show, gates open from 6pm, and entry is free.

An action-packed weekend has been planned when there is plenty to experience such as cheering on the sheep racing and lawn mower racing.

Get along to the Goldpine Pet Corner where you can get up close to the farmyard animals. If that's not enough, there is still the shearing competition and dog trials

on show

to watch, plus on the Saturday the wood chopping can be seen.

for every taste, with space to sit and enjoy

There is something for everyone at this year's A& P Show.

Wairarapa A&P Show 28th – 30th October www.wairarapashow.co.nz

weekend of November

holds its 12th annual tour on 5&6 November and expects this to be the biggest and best yet with the addition

of a Charity Auction Dinner and Market Fair.

The self-driven Garden Tour showcases 14 stunning private gardens in the South Wairarapa. From large country estates and sustainable gardens to returning favourites Mara Manu and Grand Illusions, and of course, we cannot go past Richmond Garden with its exquisite design elements.

The Charity Auction Dinner features keynote speaker Jo McCarroll, editor of New Zealand Gardener at 5 star Parehua Resort.

Another award on the way for Greytown Butchery

Established in 1873, Greytown Butchery is still operating in the same historic building. Artisan butcher Gavin Green & partner Julie Fairbrother, have transformed this iconic butchery into a gourmet, European-styled butchery that prides itself on top quality cuts with exceptional service to match.

By maintaining old traditions of butchering, it’s no wonder they consistently win awards with their multi-

award winning sausages, having so far clocked up 24 awards in the last 16 years. They are due for another award to be announced this week at the 25th Annual Great NZ Sausage Competition.

Greytown Butchery is now back to being open both days on the weekend again, commencing this Sunday during Labour Weekend. Remember to bring your chilly bin with you next time for your butchery goods.

The very successful South Wairarapa Rotary’s Martinborough Charity Fun Ride has returned after two years of cancellation due to the Covid virus.

This year it's in support of the new Wellington Regional Children’s Hospital.

Plans for the event are in full swing for 30 October and entries are coming in fast and furious. There are three routes to 48-kilometre e-bikes course.

Lunch is provided free for all bikers from 12 noon and supporters can purchase lunch for $10.

The Fun Ride is open to bike riders of all ages and skill. More information can be found at www.mcfr.org.nz

Stonehenge

Tom Bike Shop Scavenger Hunt

Chopping Shearing Carnival Rides

Goldpine Pet Corner

GARDENING THIS WEEK

Things we might miss or forget: By Wally Richards

It is an very interesting spring and start to the new season.

Most of us are saying where is spring? It is already into October and not much springy in the air.

Mind you before the Polar Blast that had us adding another layer of clothes and lighting the fire we did have some not too bad days.

Hopefully those mild days were sufficient to bring some of the pests out of their winter hiding places to be stuck dead by the cold blast.

If in spring we have an early start with sunny days and warm temperatures, then it turns to custard with a few days of bitter cold then all the pests that came out will shiver to death and our pest problem will be significantly reduced. It then will be into the new year before their numbers multiply and cause problems.

It is now not long before Labour Weekend arrives and that is the New Zealand Traditional time for planting out the tender plants such a tomatoes and Impatiens.

More tender plants such as cucumbers should not be planted till the weather really settles otherwise they just sit there and sulk.

If you do early plantings of non-hardy plants then only do a couple or so and then two to three weeks later another little planting.

Follow that pattern and you cant go wrong.

It is a timely reminder to check grafted fruit trees, ornamentals and roses.

Grafted means they are growing on a similar family plant’s root stock.

This is done for several reasons such as preventing suckering, giving what is supposed to be a better plant such as High Health in Roses and also to determine the end result size of the tree.

The root stock can and often does start producing foliage and if that is allowed to grow then the energy from the roots is grabbed by the root stock’s development and likely at some time the tree that is grafted onto the root stock will fail and die.

Normally it is fairly easy to see the union where the tree is connected to the root stock.

So any foliage that appears there on the root stock should be rubbed off or cut off to prevent it growing bigger.

Sometime the foliage may appear from under the soil near the trunk. Once again remove.

I have come to understand that grafted stone fruit trees are very likely to have curly leaf disease as the graft is a weakening aspect of the tree’s health and vigor.

I learnt this week an interesting thing; apparently if a person receives a transplant organ then over time that person may start to develop characteristics and even memories of the donor.

Which make s me wonder if a grafted tree starts to show aspects of the tree it is grafted too?

Dwarf stone fruit are the worst to have curly leaf problems.

If you grow a peach, nectarine or plum from a stone then apparently because it is on its own root system it will be far less likely to have curly leaf disease and maybe also less or none of other problems.

With roses we some times see what is often called a water shoot which is a strong upward shoot from near the base.

I think the recommendation is to cut them off but on one occasion I let it grow and with some cosmetic pruning over a couple of seasons turn a bush rose into a standard.

A reader today asked about her compost bins which are made out of tanalised timber.

She asked ‘Would the tanalised timber be harmful to the compost and would it be ok to use the compost on the vegetable garden’?

Tantalized timber has some nasty chemicals in them (Ask any older builder that has worked with tantalized timber for years about how they are faring)

I also learnt from a building inspector that tantalized fence palings that I screwed to my steel warehouse

(To attach steel cages onto for gas bottles and instant gas hot water unit) would overtime eat into the steel and cause corrosion.

So if the chemical can do that to colour steel what are they going to do to your food crops that will take up the chemicals that leach into the soil/compost?

Not a healthy outlook for sure.

The answer is to give the tantalized wood that has been cut to the right size a couple of coats of acrylic paint before assembling to seal the chemicals in.

This is also applied to raised gardens when using tantalized timber.

Container plants indoors and outdoors over winter required much less water but now as the day light hours increase and temperatures rise they will require more moisture.

A problem arises though in that the growing medium, when it became dry causes tension that does not allow the water to penetrate.

So when you water not all the mix/root system gets any moisture and you have a dry spot.

Water rather than staying in the mix a lot of it will run out into the saucer.

There are two ways to solve this problem. Container that are not too large should be taken and plunged into a tub of water submerging the whole pot. It will start to bubble away which is the air being forced out of the medium as the water replaces the dry air pockets.

When the pot stops bubbling lift up and let the surplus water drain out before returning to its saucer.

That means next time you water the plant will get all the benefit.

If you have a large container that you cannot plunge into a tank of water then what you do is this.

Fill your watering can with warm water and then give a good squirt of dish washing

liquid into it.

Lather up with your hand to make the water nice and soapy.

Water the soapy water into the container mix and this will break the tension and allow water to wet the whole mix till the same happens again.

Hanging baskets are prone to having tension and not getting a proper drink. This is especially so with hanging baskets outdoors.

Plunge into a tub of water and watch them bubble. During the summer outdoor baskets should be plunged once a month.

Another big problem with container plants is root mealy bugs and the easy way to fix is to sprinkle a little of Wallys Neem Tree powder over the mix then cover with a little more potting mix.

The powder with become mouldy as it breaks down and look unsightly.

Under a layer of fresh mix you will not see it.

Something extra which I received this week that you may find interesting/shocking?

https://www.debtclock.nz/?utm_campaign=20221007_newsletter_jordan&utm_ medium=email&utm_source=taxpayers

Someone has to pay for this and its not the ones that have caused this debt.

Greater Wellington pick horse riding over grazing

Greater Wellington is rebalancing equestrian recreation in Queen Elizabeth Park, ceasing most horse grazing in favour of expanding casual horse riding and trekking facilities while implementing its policy of restoring the natural environment of the park.

The move brings high intensity commercial grazing, that has significant and unsustainable environmental impacts in areas such as rare wetlands and fragile dune lands, to an end.

It follows a highly positive consultative process with the grazing license holder K piti Stables Limited, which has offered horse trekking and grazing to horse owners under license in the park for many years. While options to continue grazing elsewhere in the park were considered none were found to be suitable. As a result, the current licence, which ends in November, will not be renewed.

This change will contribute towards realising the vision of Toit Te Whenua, Greater Wellington’s Parks Network Plan (Toit Te Whenua), which focuses on restoring healthy ecosystems. It sets a high level of environmental due diligence and precaution to support restoration of

environmental health across parks.

With less than three per cent of the region’s wetlands remaining, the identification of new areas of wetland means they will now be prioritised for restoration via the park’s restoration programme, Recloaking Papat nuku.

“Progressively restoring the park will be an important step towards improving and maintaining its environmental health and resilience. It will be a cause for celebration in years to come as the park returns to its more natural state and wetland birds return in greater numbers,” says Al Cross, Greater Wellington’s General Manager Environment Management.

“We do, of course, also acknowledge the interests of the equestrian community, and want to encourage recreation in the park. So, we’re planning improved horse float parking and opening new tracks and welcoming increased casual riding and horse trekking throughout the park.

“We want to maintain equestrian activity and allow it to thrive, but without negative impacts on biodiversity, freshwater, cultural values and climate change mitigation opportunities.”

Following advice from Greater Wel-

lington scientists, a small, low impact pony club grazing area will be continued with reduced numbers on land deemed suitable for this activity.

“QEP has been very accommodating to horse grazing for over 30 years, but the time has come to phase the majority of it out in favour of supporting casual equestrian uses, restoring our environment and meeting the challenge of climate change by supporting natural resilience” says Al Cross.

Licence holder Rachael Martin says “K piti Stables would like to thank the

grazers and customers who have engaged in horse activities with us. Queen Elizabeth Park is an amazing environment for recreation and trekking in our community.

K piti Stables encourages casual trekkers to continue to enjoy these facilities.”

In 2023 there will be two public consultation opportunities through a park master planning process, during which Greater Wellington, in partnership with mana whenua, will explore a range of other possible enhancements for recreation experiences and the environment of the park.

Managing stress

Johnsonville Probus Club. St John’s

Bassett Rd. Last Thursday of

at 10.30am. For more info 04 382 8524

Enrolment at the school is governed by an enrolment scheme. Applications for out of zone places are now being invited for students wishing to enrol between 31 January 2023 and 30 June 2023

The Board has determined that 10 places are available during this enrolment period.

The deadline for receipt of applications is Monday 7 November 2022.

If a ballot for out of zone places is required it will be held on Tuesday 8 November 2022

Please contact Nicola Hunter in the school office for details regarding the application process. Ph 478 7155 or email office@johnsonville.school.nz

Air quality improves as EV bus numbers increase

A new report from Greater Wellington’s Environmental Science team shows the positive impact Metlink’s EV buses are having on Wellington’s air quality along the Golden Mile, leading both to positive health benefits and climate change mitigation.

The Metlink bus fleet emissions 2021/22 Environmental impacts annual report outlines air monitoring and bus emissions tracking tool results up to 30 June 2022 and reports on monthly emissions and annual air quality performance indicators.

“The report shows that greenhouse gases and air pollution from Metlink’s public bus network have trended down since September 2021 as the proportion of kilometres travelled by electric buses increased relative to diesel services,” says Senior Environmental Scientist Tamsin Mitchell.

An increase in the proportion of electric buses travelling on Manners Street, for example, was associated with reductions in pollutants. Diesel particulate air pollution reduced by 28% and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) by 18%.

“Lower total emissions from the Metlink bus fleet are very welcome, and the health benefits of Greater Wellington’s investment in EV buses are clear from a corresponding decrease in harmful emissions, including particulate matter.”

Nitrogen dioxide causes respiratory and cardiovascular system damage – making people more prone to infections and diseases such as asthma.

The latest Health and Air Pollution in New Zealand study, 2016, found that such problems worsened by air pollution contributed to more than 3300 premature deaths nationwide, and cost $16 billion in a single year. Two thirds of those

deaths could be attributed to vehicle emissions.

Figures for the Wellington region are equally sobering. Nitrogen dioxide (N02) contributed to 162 early deaths, 667 hospitalisations for respiratory and heart conditions, as well as 1,183 childhood asthma cases.

According to Metlink General Manager Samantha Gain, Greater Wellington also sees a reduction in air pollution as a regional climate change mitigation priority.

“Metlink’s bus fleet currently makes up around 35% of Greater Wellington’s corporate carbon footprint, so electrification of the bus fleet will contribute to meeting Greater Wellington’s target of becoming carbon neutral by 2030.

“Our target is for all core service bus routes to be electric-only by 2030 and we’re working towards complete decarbonisation of the bus fleet by 2035. We currently have 90 EV buses –or 20 per cent of our fleet - and plan to have 108 by 2023, which will further boost proportion of the EV buses in the fleet to 22 per cent, which is high by international standards.

“But bigger gains in reducing carbon across the region will, however, be made by encouraging mode shift away from cars to active and public transport.” says Samantha Gain.

“This involves regional initiatives such as Let’s Get Wellington Moving, intensification of urban development and the Wellington Rail Programme Business Case, a 30-year customerdriven strategic investment plan.

“The business case outlines what’s needed beyond current investment to help drive the region’s economic development and social wellbeing in an environmentally and socially sustainable and resilient manner.”

With Jacob Page

Rounding the bases of emotional fandom

Sometimes being a fan of a team can drain you of all the emotion you can muster.

I’ve been a fan of the New York Yankees baseball team for a decade now and every season is a rollercoaster of emotions.

The Yankees play 162 regular season games between late March and October, there’s little rest for players or fans.

A good week can be turned into a disastrous month and even if the

team makes the playoffs, there’s no guarantee they’ll win a championship at the end of it all.

After 10 years, I’m yet to see the Yankees win a championship despite unrivalled regular season success.

The franchise won four championships between 1996 and 2000 to provide a rare dynasty in American sports.

Their history of success makes them one of the most disliked teams in sports.

The Yankees are never an underdog in the eyes of fans but success in the postseason has eluded them since their last title in 2009.

I listen to the games on my phone as I work during the week, like how people listen to music.

It’s fun, frustrating and terrifying all wrapped up into one.

As a fan of many teams, the Yankees are easily the most draining experience I have.

Sometimes, the team is so frus-

trating, I question what I’m doing being so emotionally invested in such a team.

It’s not like many people around me in this country know or care about Major League Baseball.

Most people I pass on the street wearing Yankees caps, have no clue how the team is playing at that given moment.

I often mention to my partner it feels like only I know the struggle of baseball week after week, month

after month.

I check the score at supermarkets, shopping malls, restaurants and family gatherings.

When you know the team’s emerging players, the ones playing in the minor leagues, that’s fandom.

One year they will win it all and I will wear my Yankees cap in silent pride.

Until then, the wait goes on, hoping that this year could be the year my team outlasts all the others.

Johnsonville cricket thriving on all fronts

By Jacob Page

Zac Ringrose likes to set his own fields from the top of his bowling mark and soon he will get to do it as he takes over leadership of Johnsonville’s 50-over team.

The quick bowler will be one of two new captains across all formats this season with Gareth Severin taking charge of the red ball format and the initial stages of the twenty20 fixtures which start the new season on Saturday.

The duo will take over from former captain Raki Weerasundara, who has decided to step aside from the leadership and focus on his batting.

Raki’s approach may be a blessing in disguise as Johnsonville lost spin-bowling all rounder Jeremy Benton in the off-season who returned to Christchurch and face the prospect of seeing less of young opener Devan Vishvaka, who has earned a Wellington contract.

Young spinner Kevin Weerasundara has moved to Karori but otherwise the squad stays relatively similar to last season.

There is speculation Firebirds seamer Nathan Smith is battling a stress fracture which may hinder his bowling but make him available as a specialist batter for Johnsonville as he recovers.

Former Otago and Northern Districts batter Nick Kelly is a new face to Johnsonville and will likely With the intention to honour their club’s 95th year last year the club finally managed after several Covid enforced false starts to honour their history of 96 years and look forward to a century of club activity.

add some steel to the top order when he is available at club level.

Zac says he is looking forward to the challenges of captaincy.

“I’ve always enjoyed setting my own fields and the tactics that come with that and as one of the experienced guys, the timing feels right,” he says.

The two-time defending Pearce Cup champions are driven to make it three as well as add some limited-overs silverware to their collection.

“We’ve gone close in the both the

shorter formats and we’d like to show we can go one-step further,” Zac says.

“We’ve enjoyed being the hunted and played some strong cricket even though we know teams are giving us our best shot.

Johnsonville will take on Taita and North City in the fi rst two games of the twenty20 competition, on Saturday with both games at Fraser Park.

Across the rest of the club, junior numbers from the introductory Superstar Academy through to

Kiwi Athletics Club celebrate 96 years

The late Alan Singer, Patron of the club who passed away earlier this year was remembered with a minute of silence.

Alan, a loyal servant and supporter of Kiwi, became a life member of Kiwi AC in 1976.

made to life member Jim Blair and a plaque of recognition by Wellington Rugby Union to member and former Lions representative Jack Moir.

A celebration dinner was staged in the Newtown Park stadium lounge on Saturday evening organised by club stalwart and member of 58 years Peter Jack assisted by secretary Graham Cook.

Former members Glenda Hughes, Rhys Watson and Andrew Collins spoke on their club memories and perspectives along with Peter Jack who has built a historical account of the club.

Special presentations were

This was presented by the enlightening guest speaker Keith Quinn who spoke of his long association with the sport of athletics and rugby, including as a broadcaster at 10 Olympic Games, many with his long time friend, coach and fellow commentator Olympian John Davies.

players in Year 8 have risen above 250 for the first time in many years.

Johnsonville have 81 female players ranging from Superstar Academy age through to senior women including 25 girls who will play Saturday afternoon Years 7-11 hardball cricket spread across three teams.

Total playing numbers across all age, gender and playing grade brackets total 365 of which female players make up 22 percent.

They have 6 senior Men’s teams

including Premier and Premier Reserve Men; a 3rd X1; a division 7 Men’s team called the Panthers and two highly competitive and well organised T20 teams

They have three girls hardball teams plus virtually half a senior women’s team but have lost a few who have decided to venture off on their OE which has meant a merged team with Collegians.

Blaze players at the club include Maneka Singh, Leigh Kasperek, Thamsyn Newton plus White Fern contracted player Jess McFadyen.

Kiwi Athletics Club have celebrated their 96th year of existence.

Johnsonville will be looking for a three-peat of Pearce Cup titles this season. Photo: Wareham Sports Media.

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240 Litre Black

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Keter Easy Growing Planter 120 Litre Dark Grey

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