28 September Independent Herald

Stream runs black

By Frank Neill

Porirua Stream began running black on 26 September owing to contamination by dye. The contamination was spotted by residents of Glenside’s Willowbank Road, who contacted Claire Bibby, the President of the Glenside Progressive Association. She advised the residents to contact Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC) and she also contacted the council.

Continued on page 2.

Porirua Stream running black as it runs through Glenside. Photo: John Ayley.

How to reach us

Phone (04) 587 1660

Address 23 Broderick Rd, Johnsonville Wellington 6037 www.independentherald.co.nz

REPORTER

Frank Neill herald@wsn.co.nz

027 490 3916

NATIONAL SALES

Sam Barnes sam@wsn.co.nz 587 1660

SALES

Steve Maggs steve@wsn.co.nz 587 1660

SALES

Brenda Ingram-Johnson brenda@wsn.co.nz

021 640 152

CLASSIFIED SALES classifieds@wsn.co.nz

Stream contamination source identified

Continued from page 1. GWRC has investigated and found the source of the contamination.

“The black discharge was a result of a non-toxic dye that had been washed down by rainwater,” says David Hipkins, Acting Group Manager for Environment at Greater Wellington.

“It does not take much concentrated dye to go a long way.

“Greater Wellington was able to trace the discharge back to a company in Grenada.

“Sediment was also found to be discharging from the site and Greater Wellington is following up with an investigation,” Mr Hipkins says.

“There have been a lot of upset people talking to me about it [the contamination],” Claire says.

As well as contacting GWRC she also contacted Wellington Water, as the discharge appeared to be right below the Grenada landfill.

Because of that there was a possibility that the discharege was sewage contamination.

Officers from Wellington Water visited the stream on 26 September and investigated.

They were excellent, and they found that it was not sewage

Have your say Planned biking, walking and bus improvements

Submit before 5pm, 8 October

contamination, Claire says.

During the same morning, Greater Wellington also began investigating and found that the stream was being contaminated with black dye.

“There are two issues [affecting the Porirua Stream at

Glenside],” Claire says.

“One is the black dye. There is also quite a lot of sediment coming down the stream as well.

“The dye came first and then the sediment.”

The association has also informed GWRC about the large

amount of sediment in the stream, Claire says.

People who have a concern about water pollution can report it to Greater Wellington 0800 496 734. They receive calls for water pollution 24 hours a day.

We do weather well here in Ōhāriu. In the last couple of weeks, we’ve had howling northerlies, rain-soaked southerlies, and even the odd still sunny day thrown in. But we seem to use it as stimulation for whatever we do. I’ve been out walking our streets a lot and what has impressed me is people clearing up in public areas, clearing drains which are not on their property, and stoically doing their best to enjoy what nature throws at us.

I recently hosted a meeting which included local property developers and representatives from the City and Regional Councils. The background for the meeting was the need to ensure all people involved in providing more housing in our electorate, whether it be those building them or those regulating and permitting that building, understand the issues which govern the ability to build the houses everyone agrees we need.

There are essentially two types of development; greenfields and brownfields. Greenfields means building on currently undeveloped land, typically ex farmland on the edges of current urban areas, where infrastructure like sewers, water supply and other essential services don’t exist are usually built by the developer.

means that by osmosis, we have a political interest and understanding beyond just local.

So, we understand the effects of events occurring elsewhere in the world, not least of all the recovery from COVID, the Russian Ukraine war, and latterly, the economic issues in China.

runoff and other material ending up in our harbours, especially the Porirua harbour in the case of development north of Johnsonville and Newlands. The Wellington City Council are concerned that the existing infrastructure cannot handle the pressure it comes under when new housing areas are developed. Existing infrastructure is aging and needs upgrading across our city, as evidenced by recent pipe failures. An advantage of intensification of existing areas means more people, therefore more ratepayers to pay for those upgrades.

My theory is that Wellingtonians are more interesting people as a result of the constant stimulation of having the air moving around them, combined with the fact most can see a hill or some other natural feature on their horizon, beyond just the backyard that people living in flat places have on theirs.

Brownfields development means rebuilding on existing sites, and there has been considerable discussion in recent times around how much intensification should be allowed in existing suburbs, especially changing of height limits to allow for more apartments.

Both have their advantages and disadvantages; the Regional Council in particular see their role to prevent more

And living in our Capital also

Going back to my earlier comments about us doing weather well, the resilience that that builds into the strength of our communities here is what makes Ōhāriu such a great place to live and bring up families.

Developers of course need to make a profit, and wish to keep their compliance costs as low as possible. Many believe the Resource Management Act is too cumbersome. We as government for our part have undertaken to rewrite that act.

The feedback was good, but the success will be when there are sufficient affordable houses to meetdemand. That is certainly my goal as your MP.

That, and of course having a vibrant and functioning Johnsonville Shopping Centre we can all be proud of.

There’s plenty to be getting on with.

We never know when that resilience will be tested, either by nature or other challenges. But hold onto the fact that riding out the physical storms that buffet us toughens us up and ensures we’re match-fit for any challenge that comes our way.

It’s almost as if our weather is our life coach!

ABOVE: Where the stream that runs through Grenada Village meets the Porirua Stream. The picture was taken from Middleton Road opposite Richmond Hill.

Photo: Claire Bibby.

LEFT: A view of Porirua Stream running black through Glenside. Photo: Georgia Freeman.

Have your say on Karori plan

By Frank Neill

Shared Spaces Karori is encouraging people to have their say on Wellington City Council’s (WCC) Karori Connections project.

Making submissions is important because people will be directly impacted by the council’s plan – particularly the plan to remove car parks from Glenmore Street and Karori Road.

Shared Spaces Karori is a community group formed of cyclists, non-cyclists and business representatives.

The group wants to see “the best possible solution for all Wellington residents impacted by the changes proposed in the WCC Karori Connections project,” says Anne Evans, speaking on behalf of Shared Spaces Karori.

It would like to see “all transport needs catered for with public transport being the priority”.

Shared Spaces Karori is currently out and about in the community raising awareness of the Karori Connections Project.

They are asking people to sign their submission if they would like to see the current WCC proposals changed and would like WCC to “work with the community to design a solution that works for all”.

“Shared Spaces Karori is not against cycleways,” Anne says.

However they want to “challenge the current Wellington City Council designs as in their current form they favour what is at the moment a very small number of road users over others”.

The Karori-based group would like to see the “space shared” and the 24x7 designs revisited with alternatives considered “to

Rating review

Wellington City Council is currently seeking feeback from residents on proposed changes to its rating policies. People can provide feedback through www.letstalk.wellington.govt.nz/

accommodate the needs of all of the community, businesses, elderly and sporting organisations so that Wellington can thrive”.

An example of the need to provide car parks happened at the Botanical Gardens on Tulip Sunday, 24 September.

Despite the patchy weather, people still came out in droves, and the car parks on both sides of Glenmore Strteet were full, Anne says.

The council plans to remove these car parks.

“Who would want to see this change especially in our future electric car world?”

“We urge Council to consider the parking and the impact on the wide range of people who visit this iconic area of Wellington,” Anne says.

People wanting to support Shares Spaces Karori can download a submission form from the group’s Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/ groups/188524184115928, and sign and return, or email them to request a copy or to ask questions at Sharedspaceskarori@gmail. com.

Alternatively, people can make a submission on the WCC website https://www.surveymonkey. com/r/8PLS53J.

Submissions on the Karori Connections plan close at 5pm on Sunday 8 October.

The council’s Karori Connections plan involves changes to bike, bus and pedestrian provision through Karori to the Botanic Garden ki Pae with changes to Karori Road, Chaytor and Glenmore streets.

The council says that this is “to complete the safe bike connection from the west to the city”.

The changes the council has

the Botanical Gardens. Wellington City Council plans to remove these parks. Photo: Supplied.

proposed include: parking removal and changes; changes to bus stops, bus lanes, and road layout that have been planned with Greater Wellington and Let’s Get Wellington Moving to improve travel times for buses and provide for

more or longer buses; uphill bike lanes on Glenmore Street, Chaytor Street and sections of Karori Road; lots of safer new crossings. The budget for the Karori Connections project is $4.1 million (all capital expenditure), the council says.

Open Days

Decks Fences Cladding Gibbing

/GregOhariu

All the Glenmore Street car parks full during Tulip Sunday at

Glenside garden looking pretty

The new pocket garden in front of the Glenside Sign is now a pretty splash of colour.

This is thanks to a series of people and organisations in the community who have contributed to the project.

The Glenside Progressive Association is grateful to those who contributed to the garden.

The contributors are: Bill Lawton, Claire Bibby and Barry Blackett who cleared the brambles and honeysuckle; Wellington City Council’s Road Reserve team for removing the cleared brambles; the Glenside Progressive Association for the ponga edging; Twigland Gardeners World and Jay Street Nursery for the plants; Marion Rowell for the mulch and Hanny Naus from Monterey who helped plant it and will keep it weed free.

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

Top short story writer

By Frank Neill Newlands College student Nadia Scott was runner up in this year’s Mansfield Short Story Award.

The year 13 student’s successful short story is entitled “Jacob”.

It “captures an entire family history, with all its complications, in one moment and reveals a masterful control of language and imagery,” the judges said.

The winners of the competition were announced at an event held for finalists at the National Library on 20 September.

A shortlist of 11 finalists from local secondary schools was judged by awardwinning writer Sue Orr.

Sue said she found the shortlisted stories remarkable for the variety of subject matter explored by the writers, making it difficult to judge.

“The shortlisted stories explore the many challenges facing young people today.

“But there is much joy and celebration of life – and humour – to be found in these works as well.

“I love reading high school short stories because it affords me the privilege of being a witness to the first steps in the careers of tomorrow’s star writers of Aotearoa New Zealand,” Sue said.

The annual competition is open to Year 12 and 13 students in the Wellington region.

The stories of all 11 finalists have been published on the Katherine Mansfield House & Garden website, www.katherinemansfield.com/creative-corner/ km-short-story-competition.

The winning story this year was “ouroboros”, written by i College student Amaya Colombrick.

The new garden in front of the Glenside sign

Photo: Supplied.

New library for J’ville

By Frank Neill

Johnsonville has a new library. Located in the Johnsonville Shopping Centre, the new library was opened with a ceremony on 26 September.

A joint venture between Stride Property Group, the owners of the shopping centre, and the Rotary Club of Johnsonville, the new library is one of two community facilites that have just opened in the mall. The other is a “creativity space”, which is a community games room.

“We want to create a community library space within the shopping centre where people can sit down and where they can read a book,” says Kirsty Macgregor, the centre’s manager.

“I really think this is a very good use of

space,” she says.

The collection of books to start the library have been donated by both the Johnsonville and Tawa Rotary Clubs, Wellington Library and membrs of the public.

People are now welcome to both leave books at the library and to take books to read.

Johnsonville’s Rotarians will continue to stock the library with books also.

The opening ceremony began with a karakia led by Tracy Hurst-Porter, who is a member of N au e W o Papar angi.

Kirsty then spoke and Wellington City Councillor John Apanowicz cut the ribbon to mark the opening of the library.

Wellington City Councillor Tony Randle and u MP Greg O’Connor were among the people attending the opening.

John Apanowicz cuts the ribbon to mark the opening of the new library at the Johnsonville Shopping Centre.

Photo: Frank Neill.

new homes. A vote for me is a vote for a local MP that will deliver results for you.

What’s your prediction for next month’s election on Saturday, October 14?

Shakespearean actors in the capital

The walls of Scots College is resounding with the mellifluous tones of Shakespearean drama and music this week.

Secondary students from around New Zealand are attending the Shakespeare Globe Centre New Zealand’s (SGCNZ) National Shakespeare Schools Production.

The 48 students have been selected from SGCNZ’s 24 regional and national festivals.

Starting on 24 September and running to 2 October the rangatahi begin each day with waiata and haka practice before joining together to do workshops on singing Shakespearean songs, dancing, comedy and combat – to mention just a few.

For the other half of each day, they toil

away in rehearsals, preparing for the culminating productions of 40-minute excerpts of scenes from Romeo & Juliet, Richard III and Cymbeline to be directed by actor/director/agent/ SGCNZ Alumna Holly Shanahan, drama lecturer/director Kerryn Palmer and actor Craig Geenty, (respectively), who will also take a workshop each.

They will be accompanied by winners of SGCNZ’s Music Composition and Costume Design Competitions, Student Composer, Karim Efremov and Student Costumier, Libby Nicholls.

The line up of illustrious tutors includes Dame Miranda Harcourt speaking on screen skills for Shakespeare and SGCNZ Chief Executive Dawn Sanders sharing her deep knowledge of

the Globe and NZ’s gift of Hangings, as well as Shakespeare’s world.

Performances comprising 40 minutes from each of the plays plus some additional items will take place at the Alan Gibbs Centre, Wellington College at 7.30pm on Saturday 30 September and 4pm on Sunday 1 October at the Wild Theatre, Wellington Zoo.

“This hotly sought after opportunity is full of enriching learning experiences, creating a like-minded new whanau and all-important support network, and the chance of being selected to go to the Globe as a member of SGCNZ Young Shakespeare Company 2024,” CEO/ Organiser Dawn Sanders says.

Bookings can be made at Eventfinda. co.nz.

LET’S TAKE COUNTRY BACK OUR

Rachael Van Aalst: Unsure – most likely National but I’m a Labour voter.

Hannah Gauteng

I predict a lot of talk and not much action.

David Flanders

I’ll let you know after the leader’s debate.

Amy Stevenson Certainly won’t be red – time for a change.

Aaron Hammond

Isn’t there rugby world cup action on that night?

Melanie McTosh

I predict Winston to be in the conversation.

Garin College’s scene from Richard III that the students will perform.

Photo: Brian Scurfield, Memory of Light.

Honoured for hard work

Fourteen North Wellington residents were awarded the North Wellington Volunteer Service Award at an Awards Dinner at the Johnsonville Community Centre on 23 September.

The 14 recipients represented more than 260 years of voluntary service in the northern suburbs, the Chair of the Organising Committee, Peter Dunne, told the 60 family and friends who had gathered to celebrate

The recipients for 2023 are:

James and Marianne Bishop, Newlands Paparangi Progressive Association;

Jane Gaudie, Citizen Advice Bureau, Johnsonville;

Senior Sunday at J’ville Library

Richard Grasse, Korimako Track Builders;

Bill and Marilyn Hester, Trelissick Park Group; Helen Kennard, Johnsonville Lions;

Annette Kirkwood, Girl Guilding New Zealand;

Thomas and Anne Logan, Newlands Scout Group;

Dennis Mann, Johnsonville Op Shop;

Robyn Radomski, St Francis of Assisi Parish;

John Tiley, Churton Park Community Association; and

Glenys Tunley, Newlands Community House Inc.

Peter Dunne spoke of the grat-

itude that the community feels for the volunteers and that the 14 recipients were only a few among the large number in the northern suburbs, who regularly gave their free time in the service of others. The recipients this year came from a variety of organisations and showed the diversity of community organisations that operate in the northern suburbs, he said. The awards have been presented to residents in the northern suburbs since 2001 which was the Year of the Volunteer, the Secretary of the Committee, Ray Good, said. Prior to this year’s recipients, only 207 Awards have been given out to people and as far as can be

established the North Wellington Voluntary Services Awards is the only group in the country who continue to present awards annually.

Nominations for the awards are called in June each year.

Each award recipient receives a badge, plaque and certificate, which details their work in the community.

One of the hardest parts of the programme is reducing sometimes a life time of voluntary service to a one A4 page.

Ray also thanked the family and friends of the recipients who allowed these people to continue their work in the community and

said that this support was vital to the continued work that is carried out in the northern suburbs of Wellington.

He also acknowledged the support the committee received this year from Johnsonville Community Centre, The Trust Charitable Foundation, New World Newlands and the Johnsonville Charitable Trust.

In his final comments Mr Dunne thanked the organising committee for their efforts and advised the recipients that they were valuable members of the community and the awards they had received were achieved with a lot of effort and person sacrifices.

Johnsonville Library is hosting Senior Sunday – a new library event whereby seniors get to experience what the Johnsonville Library at Waitohi Hub has to offer in a special after hours session.

Senior Sunday will be held on Sunday 8 October from 4:30 to 6:30pm. It is part of the Wellington-wide Te Wiki Kau a | Seniors’ Week 2023, which runs from 1 to 8 October.

If the event is successful it may be offered as a regular library programme into the future.

“Libraries have evolved so much in the last few years,” says Sue Jane, Community Librarian at Johnsonville Library.

“We’re finding more and more that many of our elders feel quite overwhelmed by what’s on offer and can even struggle with the basics like how to issue a book or use the library catalogue which is all online.

“By enjoying our spaces after-hours, without the usual hubbub that surrounds a modern library, we’re hoping that they will feel comfortable enough to explore, ask questions and connect with staff and each other,” Sue says. Pods of activity, including trying VR headsets and library laptops, exploring library databases, using the recording studio instruments and relaxing in a chill-out zone with a cup of tea or coffee, will be offered in various locations throughout the library.

The HIVE Makerspace will also remain open to explore.

“We already hold a popular after-hours Youth Night once a month for our rangatahi, so we thought we would balance the scales by offering this inaugural Senior Sunday run along similar lines, except we’ll be offering soup instead of pizza,” Sue says. For more information, or to register your attendance, ring or email Johnsonville Library, phone 477 6151, email enquiries@wcl.govt.nz.

Johnsonville Library has a Platinum Accessibility rating.

SEWING ALTERATIONS

027 777 4042

Hours:

Try something unique for your overseas Christmas gifts from Ngaio’s new gift shop

By Ryl & Roy Gift Shop owner Cathryn Usher

Why name a gift shop Ryl & Roy?

Ryl & Roy were my grandparents. My Nanny Ryl was a wonderful dressmaker. She worked from home and looked after me when I was little when my mother, a solo parent, needed to work.

I loved nothing more than hanging out with Nanny, playing with her buttons, and making things from the scraps of fabrics she had left over.

I named the shop in a homage to her and my grandfather, Roy.

If you love local come and see us!

Johnsonville Club: Elevating your Christmas function with a Special Offer

Situated in the heart of Johnsonville up Normans Lane, the Johnsonville Club is the ideal venue for your next function and with Christmas only three months away, the perfect place for you and your team to celebrate this past year.

The spacious, fully airconditioned function room is ideal for corporate training sessions, trade displays, seminars, and presentations. At night, the room transforms into an elegant space for you and your guests to celebrate that special occasion or milestone birthday. There is a large dancefloor, and a range of seating options are available to accommodate

formal sit-down dinners or a more relaxed casual social event.

Venue hire includes complimentary use of a wireless mic and connectable sound system (bring your own playlists), black-clothed tables, and free WiFi. Catering can be arranged through their in-house caterers and all dietary requirements can be catered for. The bar is stocked with a full range of tap and bottled beers, wines, RTDs, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages.

Enquire now by emailing barmanager@ jclub.co.nz or call in and see Liz. Quote HERALD to receive free room hire plus $100 incl GST towards your bar tab for any Christmas function.

Dyslexia and the Davis method

As Ronald D. Davis says, “Dyslexia is not a complexity. It is a compound of simple factors that need to be dealt with stepby-step”. Because the Davis™ methods utilise the picture-thinking strengths of

Each success brings improved selfesteem which creates a willingness to try new strategies, quickly replacing the old habits as they bring success for the person.

Repairing clothes to as good as new

At Sewing Alterations (part of the Attire for Hire premises in Johnsonville) Judy Liddell can see to your rips, adjustments, darning, lining or whatever might be holding you back from wearing that special item.

Judy also runs Attire for Hire and is an expert in having you look great for your next big event – whether it’s dresses for the women or suits for the men.

1990’s, Davis™ Programmes are the most widely used intervention across the globe.

They have helped tens of thousands ofsociated with dyslexia, ADHD, dyspraxia, dyscalculia and autism, allowing them to progress in the education system and the workplace.

For further information contact Margot Young, Licensed Davis™ Facilitator, at Wellington Learning Solutions on 04 478 2208 or email margot@wls.co.nz

Wellington Botanic Garden needs your help

Earlier this year the Churton Park Garden Group gathered to hear a presentation by Mazz Scannell, President of the Friends of the Wellington Botanic Garden. In a lively and thought provoking session Mazz outlined the desperate need for support for the Botanic Garden due to no increase in funding for 10 years and the upcoming renovation of the Garden’s famed Begonia House which will cost many millions of dollars.

As the biggest tourist attraction in Wellington, members of the CPGG were surprised to learn that the Garden has to provide 10% of the budget allocated to it by the WCC from its own earnings which include the fee for parking near the Lady Norwood Rose Garden and the hireage of the Begonia House.

To support the Garden and raise funds towards the Begonia House project the Friends are busy organising events and initiatives. Amongst other things the Friends have produced their own gin and olive oil, host an artist in residence, hold regular music concerts in the Begonia House and host guided walks.

If you are interested in joining the Friends email wbgfriends@ gmail.com. For more information on the Churton Park Garden Group email churtonparkgardengroup@ gmail.com

KEEP YOUR SUBURBS BUSTLING BY SUPPORTING LOCAL!

& Health

The science behind good health

ENZO health and nutrition products

to support healthy brain and cardiovascular anti-oxidant balance, critical for healthy

Cherries – helping support heart health and joint mobility

As one of nature’s richest sources of your body’s free radicals, and support heart health and joint mobility, reduce with foods that offer specific health

Cherryvite’s Montmorency tart cherries

Montmorency tart cherries are warmed and pressed to remove the -

Tart cherry juice concentrate can be

” loaded with nutrients including high amounts of Vitamin A and Beta-Carotene ”

Radical Dog – looking after your canine mate

have been tested by Massey UniverHuman Health and are approved to

abilities as measured by ORAC and diet, whole or broken, or added to wet

that nobody told

you

What many people may not be aware of

Canine Vitality

Packed full of Montmorency tart cherries – the super fruit that delivers exceptional results - our biscuits are ideal as a treat, supplement or full feed for your dog. Shop online

Freephone 0800 764 467

Phone 03 439 5255

info@radicaldog.co.nz www.radicaldog.co.nz

ENZOGENOL®, the world’s purest pine bark extract with vitamins C & E to support your brain, eye and cardiovascular health. Keep your blood pressure and blood vessels healthy as you get older.

Suitable sleep-inducing crystals: Howlite – Can aid with insomnia caused by an overactive mind and help to overcome Agate tension and stress and reduces personal

Lepidolite

-– is a stone of calm, trust,

Acorn Stairlifts – so safe and easy to use

As an example of Acorn’s commitment to excellence and safety, they are proud that Ease of Use Commendation from the only awarded to companies whose products

to maintain, and all feature the very best in additional features built to keep you safe and provide a smooth ride around the curves

demand for domestic stairlifts continues

Retain full use of your home, and Remain

Recent customer ”

Breathe easier from sleeping on a waterbed

Most people would not believe what accumulates in their mattresses over a period

Conventional mattressess are notorious mites, and a respository for dead skin - just

”

Waterbeds don’t have anywhere for dust washed or dry-cleaned periodically to keep it

See us at 103 Willis Street –right opposite the Majestic Centre

NZ Original Tart Cherry supports... training

Hours: Monday–Friday 11am–6pm Saturday & Sunday 10.30am–5pm 103 Willis Street, Wellington Ph: 021 231 7890 susancameron@capricornspirit.com www.capricornspirit.com

seriously smart science

Who hasn’t suffered from indigestion and heartburn, especially after overdoing it with food or drink, or when rushing meals? These are very common conditions although for some of us, indigestion and heartburn happen for other reasons and can cause considerable discomfort. It’s good to know that help is available from your Self Care pharmacist. With indigestion (or dyspepsia), we can feel sick and experience gas, or a bloated feeling, in the stomach. “Indigestion causes discomfort and pain in the area between your ribs and belly button, and occurs during eating, or immediately after” advise Self Care pharmacists. Acommon symptom of indigestion is heartburn, where there is a burning feeling rising upwards from the stomach towards the throat. The acid contents of the stomach return, or ‘reflux’, back into the oesophagus (the space between the throat and the stomach, which is shaped like a tube) and causes irritation there. Indigestion and heartburn can be caused by:

Foods such as cabbage, onions, cucumber, curries and chocolate.

Certain drinks, e.g. alcohol, fizzy drinks, strong coffee and tea.

Eating food too fast; eating fatty or large meals, especially late at night.

Stress and anxiety, smoking, bending and stooping, being overweight.

Pregnancy

Certain medicines – such as aspirin and other anti-inflammatory medicines for pain and arthritis.

Try to identify the cause of your indigestion or heartburn and if possible avoid these things. If the medicines you take give you symptoms,

let your pharmacist or doctor know. Sometimes taking food at the same time as you take your medicines can help. Remember to take your medicines with a glass of water, while sitting or standing upright.

According to Self Care pharmacists, “there are changes you can make to help prevent or reduce symptoms of indigestion and heartburn. They include stopping smoking (see the Quit Smoking fact card); avoiding rich, spicy, fatty foods, and large meals late in the day, and eating smaller meals; having plenty of physical activity – at least 30 minutes most days; losing

weight if you are overweight (see the Weight and Health fact card) and learning to relax and sleep well (See the Sleeping Well fact card).”

Sometimes focusing on lifestyle changes may be all that is needed to stop indigestion and heartburn.

If medicines are required, your pharmacy has a wide range of products available for the short-term relief of heartburn and indigestion symptoms. “We can assist you in selecting the one that is best for your situation”, advise Self Care pharmacists. Antacids neutralise excess acid in the stomach. They can provide quick and effective relief but their effects don’t last long. Reflux symptoms can be relieved by medicines called alginates that form a ‘raft’ on top of your stomach contents, helping to prevent them being regurgitated. Where these medicines do not help, or symptoms are experienced as often as 2 or more times per week, other medicines may be required that decrease the amount of acid made by the stomach. There are several different types of medication available that do this. Your pharmacist can, in certain circumstances, supply these medicines without a prescription for the short term relief of heartburn symptoms. Your Self Care pharmacist will advise if this is appropriate for you.

“If there is still no improvement with lifestyle measures along with short-term use of medicines, or if symptoms suggest another cause, then we would refer you to your doctor for further investigations and treatment”, confirm Self Care pharmacists. “Our Indigestion & Heartburn fact card has more information, so ask us for a copy.”

Theft from banks accounts is huge

By Frank Neill

More than half a million New Zealanders have been victims of theft from their bank accounts and cards in just the last year, the latest Horizon Poll shows.

The results of the survey were released on 11 September.

The survey of 1,039 adults nationwide found that over the last 12 months:

13% (equivalent to around 512,000 adults aged 18+) have had

someone use a bank card, credit card, cheque or other document, without permission, to commit fraud and/or steal from them;

10% (equivalent to 385,000) have experienced fraud, theft involving a bank account;

7% (equivalent to 258,000) have been a victim of cybercrime, with an internet device accessed without permission.

Of those who were victims of fraud, 80% lost up to $5,000. Fraud and theft via bank ac-

counts and cards is running at twice the rate of losses via cybercrime (via internet devices being accessed without permission).

The survey showed that people’s view of how the banks are protecting them becomes more adverse when they find out that some New Zealand banks are not yet implementing highly-effective anti-fraud and theft measures already being used in Australia. When told about different initiatives being introduced in Australia

69% believed their bank should introduce dynamically generated CVC numbers; and

83% believed their bank should do a check to see that the account names and numbers match on an account to which a customer is sending a payment.

In the survey 73% believed that the bank should pay full compensation If a bank customer is scammed, and it is later found their bank should have spotted that the transaction was suspi-

cious.

The survey is part of Horizon’s Banking Monitor research, which also compares how competitive banks are on meeting customer service expectations.

The survey was conducted nationwide between 17 and 24 August 2023. There were 1,039 respondents aged 18 years and over.

At a 95% confidence level, the survey has a maximum margin of error of ±3% overall.

Johnsonville Medical Centre Pharmacy

String Quartet in Waikanae

The Waikanae Music Society will close its 2023 season with a concert from the New Zealand String Quartet on Sunday 8 October. Popular pianist Diedre Irons will join them to perform Amy Beach’s Quintet for Strings and Piano.

Beach was an American composer whose very attractive music is in a Romantic style. Also on this wide-ranging programme is Haydn’s famous “Emperor Quartet” and

Shostakovich’s 5th String Quartet, a dark and dramatic work that the composer did not dare to release until after the death of Stalin. The concert will be in the Waikanae Memorial Hall, at 2.30pm. Door sales available. Enquiries can be made by phoning 022 345 5316 or emailing www.waikanaemusic.org.nz.

ALL THINGS

RIGHT: The New Zealand String Quartet. Photo: Supplied.

ON... O WHAT’S

The Community Noticeboard is for non-profit organisations. For $15.00 you can publish up to 25 words.

No AGMS, sporting notices or special meetings. Community Notices must be pre-paid.

Call into our office, phone (04) 587 1660 or email classifieds@wsn.co.nz

Public Notice

Are you having trouble controlling the way you eat? Ph Sarah, Food Addicts in Recovery

Anonymous, on 027 499 2669

NEWS TIPS

Send your tips to herald@wsn.co.nz

Graham’s Painters

West Park School Pre-enrolment for Term 1 and 2, 2024

Enrolment at West Park School is now governed by an enrolment scheme, details of which are available from the West Park School website.

The West Park School Board has determined that up to 10 places are likely to be available for out of zone students for Terms 1 and 2 of 2024. The exact number of places will depend on the number of applications received from students who live within the school’s home zone.

For students seeking enrolment during Terms 1 and 2, the deadline for receipt of applications for out of zone places is Monday 4th December 2023.

Parents of students who live within the home zone and intend enrolling their child at any time during Terms 1 and 2 should notify the school by Monday 4th December 2023 to assist the school to plan appropriately for these Terms.

Pre-enrolment applications can be submitted:

1. in writing to the West Park School office,

2. posted to the Principal, West Park School, 97 Broderick Road, Johnsonville, Wellington 6037,

3. emailed to principal@westpark.school.nz

If the number of out of zone applications exceeds the number of places available, students will be selected in a priority order by ballot. If a ballot for out of zone places is required, it will be held on the Thursday 7th December 2023. Parents will be informed of the outcome of the ballot within three school days of the ballot being held.

Details relating to the enrolment period are as follows.

Length of enrolment period: from 1st February 2024 to 5th July 2024

Deadline for receipt of applications: Monday 4th December 2023

Date of ballot: Thursday 7th December 2023

Death

SHEPPARD, Myra Ruth (nee Oakes): Sep 22, 2023

Historic site may be at risk

By Frank Neill

An historic burial site in Glenside may be at risk from proposed earthworks in the area, the Glenside Progressive Associaiton fears.

On 10 October 1842 Bishop Selwyn, escorted by 30 M ori people, visited the burial site of a local woman who had died the previous winter and blessed it.

Now Wellington Water wants to fell trees and do earthworks for wastewaterpipes through the area where the burial took place, the association says. The Association has asked Wellington City Council and Heritage New Zealand to ensure that the Historic Places Act is followed and that the burial site is not damaged or destroyed.

Following Bishop Selwyn’s blessing, the burial site was lost.

A local farmer, Mr Hodges, rediscovered the grave in 1913, planted trees around it and fenced it.

The site was visited for many years by the local community until the 1960s when a local farmer discouraged visitors to the farm.

Once again the grave site was lost.

When the Westchester link road was built, Wellington City Council undertook

THURSDAY

Funeral

The memorial that has been erected at the historic grave site in Glenside. Photo: Supplied.

archaeological investigations to ensure the bones were not unearthed.

Glenside residents asked through an Environmental Court hearing for a suitable memorial, which was built and unveiled.

Who first proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection?

In the early 19th century, Jean-Baptiste Lamarck proposed his theory of the transmutation of species, the first fully formed theory of evolution. In 1858, Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace published a new evolutionary theory that was explained in detail in Darwin’s On the Origin of Species (1859).

49. Noticeable (9)

51. Possessed (5)

52. Sleeping robe(Fem) (7)

53. Remain (5)

54. Kenya’s capital (7)

55. Compensated (11)

32. Stone(of friut) (3)

33. Rage (3)

38. Method; modus (8)

40. Kiss (8)

42. Title of respect(Turkish) (7)

44. Cavalry horse (7)

14. Assigned for later action (cheque)(4-5)

15. Without haste (9)

16. Woman(Maori) (6)

18. Pirate (7)

21. Funeral fire (4)

23. Tent rope (3)

25. Sea bird (3)

27. Hires (4)

28. Retribution (7)

30. Accident (6)

32. Play on words (3)

33. Small demon (3)

34. Feverish (6)

35. Eye liner (7)

36. Employer (4)

37. However(poetic) (3)

39. Self (3)

41. Egyptian waterway; canal (4)

43. Ghost (7)

45. Glimpses (6)

48. Coffee shop (9)

DOWN

1. Seize(power) wrongfully (5)

2. Painkiller (11)

3. Anticipating with horror (8)

4. Strangeness (6)

5. Lazed (5)

6. Titters (7)

7. N.Z Maori novelist; Grace (8)

8. Repugnant (6)

9. Socks,stockings etc (7)

10. Very small (5)

16. Renegs on wager (7)

17. Castrated males (7)

19. Musical drama (5)

20. Search through (7)

22. Breathes out (7)

24. Longing (3)

26. Lamb hide (3)

29. Bring on oneself (5)

31. Acts of warfare (11)

46. Atist’s room (6)

47. Rill (6)

48. Sing with low smooth voice (5)

49. Of the eye (5)

50. Correct (5)

Solution

Last Week 21 September 2023

For April 9, 2003

For July 21, 2004

The Wilson Funeral Home has served Wellington for over 100 years.

Charles Darwin and Jean-Baptiste Lamarck

Busy time for Olympic Harriers

Olympic Harriers has had a busy time over the last two weekends. First up Rik and Michelle Van Looy decided to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary in Sydney and compete in the 10km race while there. In very hot conditions Rik ran 43 mins and Michelle 45 mins coming sixth in her age group (women’s 50-59). Next was the Hutt Marathon, where runners can do the marathon, half marathon, 10km or 5km.

Olympic Harriers was well represented with Simon Angus finishing first in the marathon in 2:54:13, more than seven minutes in front of second place.

Butch Borlase (first male 50-59), Andrew Thompson (fourth male 35-49) and Sarah Hewton-Malins completed the half marathon. Next to race was our New Zealand masters international triathlete and Tri Wellington Club member Cathy Alderton who on Saturday podiumed at the World Triathlon Championship Finals in Pontevedra, Spain. She picked up the bronze medal for her age group (60-64) in the Super Sprint Triathlon, a fast, furious event with some exciting racing around the short course consisting of a 300-metre swim, a 6.4-kilometre bike ride, and a 1.6-kilometre run.

A few days later she then competed in the Olympic Distance triathlon, a 1500-metre swim, 40-kilometre bike, and 10-kilometre run, quite a different event from the super sprint, where she had another great result coming 13th.

On Saturday the Olympic Harriers undertook pacing duties at the Ara Harakeke Parkrun on 23 September to help other runners achieve personal bests or a certain time. Parkrun is a free 5km event which takes place every Saturday at 8am, come rain or shine, and in Olympic Harriers case it was rain. Sixteen Olympic Harriers,

Wilde political scandal in Khandallah

With the buzz of a general election eating up the media column inches, it’s timely that KAT Theatre’s next production is Oscar Wilde’s brilliant political comedy, “An Ideal Husband”, will be hitting the Cochran Hall stage on 19 October.

Wilton resident, Ava Straw, plays the wife of a disgraced politician who is the subject of a blackmail scandal involving a murky deal in his past.

“Mrs Chiltern is proud of her ‘ideal husband’ as long as he has an impeccable record,” Ava says.

“She constructs what she wants her husband to be. When she finds out he’s not the man she thought he was, she’s devastated that he lied to her. Some emotionally heavy scenes ride on this betrayal of trust. I’ve mostly played comedic roles, and this has been an opportunity for me to do something serious and meaty, but there’s still lots of comedy in her unshakeable beliefs.

“She knows she’s right! I love how she changes from an old-fashioned perspective on women to a more nuanced understanding of vulnerability. She starts out very black and white and it’s nice to see her evolve.”

While it’s the context of the play, Ava says the political storyline ultimately takes a background role to the main message of doing what’s right and has many parallels with what we’re seeing in the world now, even though it was written in 1895.

“Chiltern’s story arc is standing up for his principles despite the blackmail. We need strong, principled leadership to take systemic action on housing, poverty, climate action and equity. What politicians do should be in line with the needs of people.”

Hailing from the United States, where

personality and identity politics have been starker than anywhere else in recent years, Ava is enjoying the British setting of the play and trying a new accent.

“I hope it’s not atrocious,” she jokes.

“Seriously, though, I have British friends in this cast and from my last KAT play, ‘A Touch of Danger’, who have been very supportive and helped with the minutiae of the accent.”

Ava has also enjoyed working with first-time KAT director, Tim Macdonald, who played George in John Steinbeck’s “Of Mice Men” performed at Cochran Hall in 2020.

“Tim’s a great director,” she says.

“He cultivates a lovely, playful environment and allows actors to explore and try out different things. He also gives fantastic feedback and has a good eye for blocking and emotional beats.”

“An Ideal Husband” was Macdonald’s pick for KAT Theatre’s final production of the year because he loves Wilde’s witty way with words.

“Words are everything,” he says.

“I’m a sucker for text and subtext, what we say and what we’re really saying. Theatre shows this in ways other mediums can’t.

“I’m interested in the effect of words on people and how people see themselves versus how they like to be seen.

“In the fake reality of politics, you have to maintain a power base, but the play at its heart is about the relationships between men and women.

“It’s cheeky and witty and reveals how men and women are. These people are grandiose but underneath they’re insecure.”

“An Ideal Husband” plays at Cochran Hall from 19 to 28 October and tickets are available via the KAT Theatre website: kat-theatre.org. nz/bookings.

Making connections for seniors

A special seniors week event called “Making Connections” will be held at the Johnsonville Uniting Church from 10am to 2:30pm on 4 October.

At Making Connections people will have the opportunity to enjoy some great presentations and seminars, get advice and support and enjoy lunch and a cuppa with new friends. This special Seniors’ Week event was popular last year, with all spaces taken. The Aged Care Commissioner Carolyn Cooper will deliver the keynote address. The seminars on the day include:

pain management; scam prevention; advance care planning; health improvement; and tech support.

The even will enable people to make connections with other seniors, make connections with organisations and businesses that can help, and make connections with Age Concern.

For the full programme and to register visiit https://www.acwellington.org.nz/ making-connections/.

Max Doherty (who also came first in the race), Joe Fowler, Regan Stallard, Adrian Jurke, Michelle Van Looy, Darren Gordon, Angela Clark, Lucy Jurke, Bruce Atmore, Barbara Jennings, Andrea Adams, Jennie Alderton- Moss, Juju Moorhead, Issy De Hair, Annie Van Herck and Darcy Mellsop were some of the 63 runners and 17 volunteers who braved the rain and provided pacing between 18 mins and 40 mins.

One of the harriers took their pacing duties very seriously, when realising they would finish about five seconds too soon, they slowed down, ended up running

backwards for a few strides and then forward past the finish line to finish dead on their pacing time.

Julie Klein competed in the Blue Lake 24 hour challenge on 24 September.

The weather was no better for her with mud and rain, which proved so bad the event finished before the 24 hours was up due to safety concerns.

Julie still managed to complete 60km, covering the same distance as last year but 10 minutes quicker.

People interested in finding out more about Olympic Harriers can visit the club’s website at https:// www.olympicharriers.nz/.

Star Trek Laser Tour

This programme begins with a presentation on the current night sky which includes an audio visual. This is followed by, weather permitting, a laser tour of the night sky. Available any evening by appointment. Times vary with sunset times.

Stonehenge Aotearoa

Theo Nettleton as Robert Chiltern pleading with his wife Gertrude, played by Ava Straw, in a scene from the KAT production of “An Ideal Husband”. Photo: Supplied.

16 Thursday September 28, 2023

MITRE 10 CROFTON DOWNS

WAS $ 10.39 NOW

Tui Compost 40 litre Gypsum improves soil structure, aeration and water retention. Blood and bone for natural fertilising. Use in new and existing gardens. 100% weed free.

141806

Taurus GARDEN Compost Bin 400 Litre Black

Supplied with comprehensive composting guide. Ready to assemble. Manufactured in NZ from recycled polypropylene.

$149

Tui Urban Oasis Planter

L: 0.75m, W: 0.35m, H: 1.34m

Self watering container with extra large 16 litre water storage. Includes a cover to protect plants from harsh conditions and extend your growing season.

$10 98

TIME TO GET BACK INTO THE GARDEN

Growfresh Pot Tomato Sweet 100 100mm

Recommended planting is during Spring. Note: Planting should be delayed if the spring season is unusually cold or wet as tomatoes are frost tender.

Bennes Seed Potatoes 1kg

Seed Potatoes 1 kg, main crop harvest maturity : approx. 90-100 days.

Tui Mobile Vegetable Patch

Self watering container with extra large 12 litre water storage. Extend the support frame as your plants grow to 1.4 metres. Suitable for all vegetable types.

LOW PRICE

$29 98

Tui Hesin Potato Grow Bag

$14 98 LOW

Compact size for growing seeds, seedlings or cuttings. Includes air vent for temperature control.

PRICE 221640

337846

$13 98

Has four side panels that can fold over to secure the bag shut. Reusable. Easy to use and empty. Suitable for grass clippings and general garden debris.

MITRE 10 CROFTON DOWNS Phone : 04 479 8765 128 Churchill

smaller gardens.

Tui Strawberry Mix 30 litre

Drive

A

and robust variety, Monterey is tolerant of high temperatures and demonstrates a good leaf disease resistance.

A six month controlled release fertiliser provides sustained feeding for optimum plant health.

Keter Alfresco Garden Bed 105L Dark Grey

Includes water reserve with drain plug to prevent over-watering. Strong metal legs. A shelf to conveniently store gardening equipment.

LOW PRICE

$69 98

Keter Full Bloom Garden Bed 120L Dark Grey Watering system included. Drainage tap included for indoor or outdoor use. Elevated ergonomic design.

393208

LOW

269057 $3

PRICE

LOW

138437 PRICE

Number 8

Assorted Colours

Easy to use on/off switch. Lawn weed killer that selectively kills the most common broadleaf weeds in lawns.

Wide 20 tooth head for easy raking. Sturdy wooden handle. Assorted colours available in black, blue, red or yellow.

243568 cs.croftondowns@mitre10.co.nz facebook.com/mitre10.croftondowns www.mitre10.co.nz/croftondowns