Delivered to 3,150 households
December 2021 & January 2022
Produced for the community, by the community
How The Woodpecker got its name! The mystery solved! Revealed by Richard & Hilary Ellena
I have struggled to remember why we came up with the name…… It’s hard to believe that something very small that started over 40 years ago is still going today. Not very many left who can remember
what it was like to live in a day before computers and cell-phones (although we had got as far as television - with three channels). It was also a day when Woodend was growing with new subdivisions on both sides of the main road. Cont’d on Page 17
The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 1
Editor’s Note
I find it hard to believe we have nearly come to the end of yet another year, and so quickly too! This time last year we were hoping ‘next year’ would be different, and well yes it has been, however, not the way we had hoped or expected for many reasons. However, I’m sure you will all be reflecting on what positives have come from the year and looking to planning for a 2022 that is the best we can make it. Having distractions such as reading, or socialising is a great way to enjoy some downtime and feed ourselves with positivity and happiness. The Woodpecker is a publication that is ‘produced by the community for the community’ and once again for the second month running, we have a bumper pack of 56 pages, as well as increasing our circulation to a whopping 3,150! And that is thanks to all of you. This added to the second edition of our full-colour (apart from those advertisers still with monochrome files), we have a more vibrant read to enjoy and be aware of what is going on in our community. I would like to say to all of those readers, advertisers, community contributors and many others who have taken the time to say how fantastic The Woodpecker looks, and how the full-colour made it stand out much more than before. How far we have come... You will see that this month I chose a very pertinent front-page item. That being the mystery of how The Woodpecker got its name. September Woodpecker showed some examples Page 2 The Woodpecker December 2021
of one of the very first publications, an A4 leaflet which was over 40 years ago. We’ve come a long way. The growth and evolution of this wonderful magazine is because of all those who contribute directly and indirectly. I would like to once again not only acknowledge and recognise all those lovely volunteers, Trustees, distributors, deliverers etc who have diligently committed their free time to enable The Woodpecker to get to your front door or post box. It’s a magnificent operation which I for one am blessed to be a part of. So a huge thank you to all concerned! Lastly, I would like to wish all of you the very best over the festive season with your family, friends and colleagues – enjoy the special times and make lots of great memories. Also wishing all of you a very Happy New Year and all the best for a prosperous 2022. See you in February. The Woodpecker – ‘produced by the community for the community’ Ngā mihi nui Debs Taylor-Hayhurst The Editor - Woodpecker
The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 3
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Dan Gordon Mayoral Update
Three Waters Reform continues to be a very important issue for our communities. There isn’t a day that goes by that I am not stopped multiple times on the street or contacted by phone or email to hear our residents’ concern, anger and frustration at the Government’s decision to force Three Waters reform. Councils across New Zealand are mobilising and working together to fight this. It’s important the Government hears the voice of our residents. 30 Mayors and Councils have jointly signed a letter to the Prime Minister. We want to meet with the Prime Minister so she hears your voice and what matters to you. Waimakariri District Council is part of a Page 4 The Woodpecker December 2021
group of Councils taking the matter to Court, and we lodged proceedings in the High Court a week ago. We are not against this for the sake of it. What we do agree on is that quality drinking water and better environmental outcomes are essential and support the new water regulator and coming regulation. Who wouldn’t support this? What we don’t support is the flawed and now forced four-entity model that takes control of our assets which, over the years, you have paid for, and also takes away the ‘local’ say. Our message to the Government is this – press the pause button, let the new water regulator embed, then get back around the table and talk to us about alternative and viable delivery models. We are open to the discussion. Reform needs to have the support of Councils
and support of the communities they serve. Rushed and forced reform is a recipe for disaster. Recently I was proud to stand beside fellow Mayors Marie Black from Hurunui and Craig Mackle from Kaikoura at the Groundswell event in Amberley, at which we were invited to speak. The above was our message on Three Waters reform. Together, strongly supported by our Councillors, we will do our utmost to make sure your voices are heard and will work tirelessly to make sure we get the best outcomes possible for you on Three Waters. We won’t leave any stone unturned in our quest to change the Government’s position. Recently I had the honour to speak at a ceremony at the Rangiora Cenotaph and help unveil a War Animal Memorial Plaque. This is the first cenotaph in New Zealand to have a plaque to honour animals lost in wars and conflicts throughout our history.
Special thanks to Theresa Rosanowski, Claire Hammond and Ann Stewart for their tireless work in leading a dedicated group of animal lovers to see this project reach fruition, and for their efforts in organising a moving event which was a fitting tribute to our fallen service animals. Lest we forget. Merry Christmas, Meri Kirihimete! We all know it has been an extraordinary year, one unlike any of us would have experienced before (I’m sure we said the same last year). Despite this, or perhaps because of it, it is important that we all take time to reflect on what Christmas is about, in our own individual way. I always look forward to the season of Christmas. For me it is about spending time with my family and enjoying seeing so many people connect and share joy. Please keep an eye out for people on their own this Christmas and holiday period. This is a time for kindness and sharing. Thank you to our emergency services, medical teams and all other staff working and keeping us safe over this holiday period. Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and happy New Year.
The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 5
Hello everyone… I was speaking to a local identity today who has been through a tough time of late. She mentioned that her driving force of getting herself through the tough days was the support of the local Woodend community and she was very humbled by it. This really got me thinking, how important are the waves we give our neighbours in the morning, the smiles we give those walking down the street and the small acts of kindness that we think go unnoticed. They really can brighten someone’s day. It also made me feel very proud of our Woodend community and how truly lucky I am to call it home. The Woodend Community Association is looking forward to 2022, it will be full of new ideas and projects for us to facilitate. If you have any suggestions Page 6 The Woodpecker December 2021
on ways to improve our community, please be in touch via email at woodend.community.association@ gmail.com. Also, feel free to join us at our next gathering, our end of year Christmas function at the Woodend Tavern on 16 December at 6:30pm. Everyone is welcome to attend and share in some festive community cheer. I would also like to say a big THANK YOU to the Waimakariri District Council for the completion of Stalkers Park playground. How fantastic it is to see it bring so much joy to the kids and families of Woodend and beyond. The Woodend Community Association would like to wish everyone a fabulous Christmas and thank you for your support this year. Have a wonderful summer and we will be back in action in February 2022. Happy holidays…
Adrienne Simpson Woodpecker Trustee Profile
E ngā mana, e ngā reo, rau rangatira mā, Tēnā koutou katoa Ko Maukatere te maunga Ko Rakahuri te awa Kei a Ngāi Tūāhuriri te mana o te whenua nei Nō Ōtautahi ahau Ko au te tumuaki o te kura Tuatahi o Pakiaka Ko Adrienne Simpson tōku ingoa Nō reira, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katoa. I am Adrienne Simpson, Principal / Tumuaki at Woodend School. I have been at the school for many years as a teacher, Team leader, Deputy Principal and have now been Principal for the last 5 years. We have lived in Woodend for the last 20+ years, so have watched with interest all the recent growth in the area. The school only had 8 or 9 teachers when I first started there and now we have 18-20 teachers and just over 400 students. I became involved with the Woodpecker Trust as part of my role at the school and it has been exciting to see the development of the community publication to the new full colour editions. I started delivering the Woodpecker in Ravenswood when the development started with about 10 houses and now deliver around
100 just to the first stage off Chinnerys Road. Being married to a school principal meant we moved around to different teaching positions - the West Coast, North Otago, Mid Canterbury and Christchurch before settling in North Canterbury about 25 years ago. I have 2 daughters who also live with their partners and families in North Canterbury with 8 grandchildren who keep us busy with sporting, cultural and other activities. I enjoy spending relaxing time in our large garden including a productive veggie garden. Nga Mihi Nui Adrienne The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 7
WHY WE EXPLORE 10 WALKS TO DISCOVER THIS SUMMER IN WAIMAKARIRI
01
RYDE FALLS
03 TARANAKI WALKWAY
04 WOODED GULLY
Location: Tūhaitara Coastal Park, Pegasus
Location: Waikuku Beach
Location: Wooded Gully Camping and Picnic Area, Mt Thomas Conservation Area
Time/Distance: 3 Hours one way. 7km
Time/Distance: 4km one way
Time/Distance: 1km one way
Time/Distance: 3 hours return, 5.3km
05 RAKAHURI TRAIL Location: Waikuku Beach or Rangiora
06
07
Location: Glentui Picnic Area, Mt Thomas Forest Conservation Area
Location: Waimakariri River Regional Park, Kaiapoi
08 ASHLEY GORGE LOOP TRACK Location: Ashley Gorge Recreation Reserve, Oxford
Time/Distance: 13km one way
Time/Distance: 1hr return, 2km
Time/Distance: 18km of trails to discover
Time/Distance: 45mins return, 4.5km
Location: Mt Oxford Conservation Area, Oxford
02
09
TE KŌHANGA WETLANDS
GLENTUI NATURE WALK
NORTHBROOK WETLANDS
Location: Cotter Lane, off Northbrook Road, Rangiora Time/Distance: 1.5km one way
KAIAPOI ISLAND
10
MT OXFORD TRACK
Location: Coopers Creek Carpark or View Hill Carpark, Mt Oxford Conservation Area Time/Distance: 4hrs one way, 6km
To find out more about these and other walks in Waimakariri visit our website www.waimakariri.co.nz
Page 8 The Woodpecker December 2021
WHY BE ANYWHERE ELSE FIND OUT MORE AT: visitwaimakariri.co.nz
ENQUIRE WITH: Kaiapoi i-SITE info@kaiapoivisitorcentre.co.nz
Over 70 eateries, over 30 boutique shops, 3 farmers markets and 3 art galleries. 10kms of pure New Zealand beaches, 2 conservation areas in the foothills, 2 regional parks, 1 coastal park, wetlands, and lakes all with cycling and walking opportunities, 2 Braided rivers perfect for fishing, boating or just having fun and 5 golf courses.
The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 9
All Construction & C onc rete Work
• Driveways, patios & paths • Bridges and Culverts • Floors, foundations, sheds and buildings • Dairy Sheds, Herd homes • Silage pits, effluent ponds
• Retaining walls & landscaping • Swimming pools & ponds • Excavation and cartage • Precast concrete • Insulated panels • Placing & Finishing
Daryl Power 027 230 9401
concretepower@scorch.co.nz • www.concretepower.co.nz Page 10 The Woodpecker December 2021
Update from Tūhaitara Coastal Park
November has been a month gearing up for a busy summer season. We’ve welcomed four new summer rangers into our team, with a few more still to come on board. Daniel and David joined us after recently completing a course with Conservation Volunteers New Zealand. Emily and Zita are undergraduate environmental science and geography students from the University of Canterbury. With a larger team in place, we are getting on top of keeping down the
grassy and woody weeds that seem to be growing faster than ever. Our work has concentrated on brush-cutting and releasing our young plants. Releasing plants ensures that they get the sunlight and space that they need to thrive. You will find our team will be visible
out and about in the park and along the beach throughout the summer ensuring the safety of our wildlife and our visitors. We look forward to seeing you - do stop for a chat when you see us! Remember, if you’re out with your dog, it must be kept on a lead along the Tūtaepatu Trail and around the wetlands. On other trails and on the beach your dog must be kept close to you and under control. This ensures the safety of wildlife and the safety of your dog. To find out more about the coastal park
and our work visit: www.tuhaitarapark. org.nz Facebook Friends of Tūhaitara Coastal Park; and Instagram tuhaitara. coastal.park Captions for photos: Photo above left: Casual ranger team Photo above: Plant releasing
The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 11
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Who Found Woody in November Woodpecker?
As you know each month a small black Woodpecker is pasted somewhere in The Woodpecker magazine for some eagle-eyed reader to find him! This month I’m pleased to announce we have three lovely children who found him. William, aged 9 and Xanthe, aged 7 who were visiting their Pegasus grandparents (Kay & David Mills) from Avonhead found him.
A community fundraising event brought to you by Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Canterbury and Fun HQ. Raise funds while having fun! Our youth mentoring programme is fueled by the community, for the betterment of the community. See you there!
However, when I was pasting ‘Woody Woodpecker’ in last month, I ‘lost’ him, couldn’t find him and then pasted him in again. The result was that Quinn, Aged 3 from
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Woodend not only found one but found two Woody Woodpeckers!!! Quinn found the one I couldn’t find! Well done to both entrants - great job!
Attention Advertisers and Community Groups Are you part of a group which you would like to promote? Are you a small local business who would like to promote themselves? Do you have any community stories you would like to share? Have you any information or notices you would like to share? YES? We would love to hear from you! The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 13
WOODEND VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE
8 Eders Road - Woodend
Recognising 30 Years Of Service To The Community SENIOR STATION OFFICER ROBBIE BOYD At our recent Honours’ Night for the Woodend Volunteer Fire Brigade, we were pleased to be able to award Senior Station Officer Robbie Boyd a second clasp to be attached to his Long Service and Good Conduct Medal for 28 years service-very well deserved. The Long Service and Good Conduct Medal is awarded after 14 years service, with clasps being added every 7 years after that. This medal has been awarded under Royal Warrant and must have Ministerial approval, therefore having to be applied for; the members conduct needing to be ‘of such good standard to warrant the medal’ Robbie has now served 30 years in the Brigade and has been the mainstay and organizer of our daytime turnout crew for many a good year and given up many hours of his self employed business to attend calls –a huge commitment on his part, for the community. His reply was:–“It was a pleasure to do it for the Community and it has given me great satisfaction. It has been so rewarding and that sort of thing means a lot”. His feelings are that you have to put back into the Community sometime in your life. Big congrats to you Robbie from all the Members of the Woodend Volunteer Fire Brigade. We appreciate all that you do. Left to right CFO - Lew Grant , A.C- Colin Russell ,
SSO - Robbie Boyd , DCFO - Shayne Robinson
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Our Recent Calls - Total of 151 for 2021
We look forward to seeing you in our new location at 209 High Street, Rangiora. Our opening hours are 9am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. At CAB North Canterbury, in addition to our face-to-face, phone and email services, we are proud to offer three types of clinics for clients. They are all free and confidential. Legal Clinic: Our fortnightly legal clinic is for a 10-minute period and is by appointment only. The lawyer will help with information but do no other work for the client, such as writing a letter or making a phone call on their behalf. Seven legal firms make a staff member available for this clinic on a rostered basis over the year and we are grateful for their ongoing and long-standing support. Budgeting Drop-In Clinic: This clinic gives CAB clients the opportunity to discuss their budgeting needs and questions with a Financial Mentor from Budgeting Services North Canterbury. Appointments are for 15 minutes, and the clinic runs on a fortnightly basis. We encourage clients to book however there is a drop-in option available as well. Immigration Clinic: This clinic will start in January 2022 and will be by appointment only. It will give CAB clients the opportunity to meet with a licenced immigration advisor who will help, advise and support clients to understand how to navigate the
immigration application process. Appointments are for 15 minutes, and the clinic will run on a fortnightly basis. If you or someone you know needs information, advice or support on any matter, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We’re here to help. Our office will close for the holidays at 3pm on Tuesday, 21 December and reopen at 9am on Monday, 10 January 2022. You’ll find us at 209 High Street, Rangiora, or you can phone us on 313 8822 or 0800 367 222, or send us an email northcanterbury@cab.org.nz
The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 15
RONEL’S COMMUNITY CUPPA FOR PEGASUS RESIDENTS Ronel and Rhonda invite Pegasus residents to join us at the December ‘Christmas Community Cuppa’ when things will run a bit differently to normal. Guests are asked to bring a small plate of food “enough for 2, not for 20” as host Ronel says. The Christmas Cuppa will start at 10.45am on Wednesday 8th December at the Pegasus Community Centre (8 Tahuna St, Pegasus, near the Flat White Café). Don’t worry if you are not able to bring a plate of food, all Pegasus residents are still very welcome and rest assured, there will be plenty of food to go around. NOVEMBER CUPPA GUESTS The November Cuppa was well attended with two members of the WDC planning team present to enlighten guests about the District Plan Review. A good range of questions were asked and answered with several people preparing to put in a submission. GOODBYE 2021 AND THANKS TO OUR MANY SUPPORTERS Its been a great year for the Community Cuppa, which now runs as an independent event. As the year draws to a close, we want to thank the many people who help make Ronel’s Community Cuppa such a success. Starting with all the wonderful Pegasus residents who attend and support the Cuppa, thank you so much, you are what it is all about. Huge thanks also to Andy Laloli from The Good Home Pegasus for the vouchers which go into the lucky draw each month, to WDC for the fee waiver and to the Woodend-Sefton Community Board for the funding grant. Huge thanks to our many helpers who help set up and pack up on the day and especially to Sharon, who has spent countless hours in the kitchen doing the dishes! NEW DAY AND START TIME FOR CUPPA IN 2022 Ronel has plans to continue the Cuppa in 2022, but note the change of time and day: Ronel’s Community Cuppa will be at 10.30am on the first Friday of the month. The first Cuppa of 2022 will be at 10.30am on Friday 4th February, so mark your calendar or diary now! (the venue is still the Pegasus Community Centre). CHRISTMAS COMMUNITY CUPPA REMINDER… Join us at Ronel’s Community Cuppa on Wed 8th December at the Pegasus Community Centre from 10.45am. Please don’t come early as we need time to set up. Level 2 Covid restrictions apply. Remember to bring a small plate of food if you can and feel free to dress with a Christmas theme! Page 16 The Woodpecker December 2021
Cont’d from front page
How The Woodpecker got its name. The Mystery Solved!
Together with three other close couples from Christchurch we moved out to Woodend in the 1970s and bought three sections in the Simon Place, Pankhurst Drive subdivision. We loved it - and together with other new neighbours found ourselves part of a very supportive community. However with Woodend growing rapidly we sensed a disconnect with the Rangiora District Council. There was little or no consultation with the residents of Woodend despite the rapid growth and we were often the last to hear about future plans and dreams. Of course this was also a time before social media. How could we find out what was planned and how could we communicate the thoughts and feelings of Woodend residents back to the Council? With these questions The Woodpecker was born. It consisted of a couple of pages letting people know what was being discussed in Council regarding Woodend as well as domestic bits and pieces of interest from within our small but growing community. Everything was prepared by typewriter and then printed for us, if I remember correctly, either by the District Council, or by a small grant from the Council. A small group then, we walked around Woodend placing them in the local letterboxes. An informal ‘committee’ was formed to discuss each issue and to seek out
items of interest. They were special days in which we were concerned to create a sense of community rather than seeing Woodend become a ‘dormitory’ subregion of Rangiora or Christchurch. We were quite passionate about creating a local identity. So where did the name and the logo come from? The ‘wood’ of Woodpecker obviously was from the name of the community ‘Woodend’ but the ‘Woodend Gazette’ or Woodend News’ seemed far too prosaic and boring. We wanted something that would spark people’s interest and ‘Woodpecker’ came out of the proverbial ether. It was when my sister, Viv d’Auvergne, created the cartoon figure that is still used today, we knew that this would identify it as ‘ours’ - Woodend’s local community news! And it’s still going…….. Richard & Hilary Ellena
Editor’s Note
A huge thanks to Richard and Hilary Ellena for providing this information to the Board of Trustees for The Woodpecker Community Trust. This has been such an ‘unknown’ for so long. It’s a question I’ve asked since starting as Editor 3.5 years ago, and one I’ve been asked many times and been unable to answer. It was because of this we were on a mission to get to the bottom of the story and find out how and why. Hope you enjoyed it? Debs Taylor-Hayhurst - Editor The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 17
There Is No Room Here by Anastasia Marambos
The donkey walked with its head almost touching the ground. Mary rode on that donkey, and Joseph walked beside her. Mary smiled gently, and Joseph remembered what she had said nine months ago: “This little baby boy won’t be an ordinary child but will be better than any other child.” Joseph approached a small inn and knocked on the door. There was no answer. He knocked again. Five minutes had passed, and he had knocked multiple times, when the innkeeper finally answered the door. With a new cloak and a long staff, the elderly innkeeper looked like a professional. But Joseph had hardly
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started speaking when he interrupted. “I’m very sorry, but I have other customers to attend to. All accommodation is occupied. Thank you for understanding” the innkeeper said, before slamming the door. Joseph sighed. This was the eleventh inn that they’d knocked at. “What should we do now?” asked Mary. “We will find somewhere.” said Joseph, “It will be okay. Here is another inn. I don’t think it is as full as the others were.” He knocked on the door. The innkeeper answered it. “Please,” said Joseph, “give us a place to stay! My wife is going to give birth soon, and we have nowhere to go.” “I can give you a place to stay,” said the innkeeper, “but not in the inn. It is full. I do have a stable, though. You can go there if you want.” Joseph turned to Mary, “Is it okay if we stay in the stable?” “Yes.” Mary smiled. She was glad that they finally had a place. Joseph said yes to the innkeeper a little reluctantly. This was not what he had wanted for his wife and the baby. When they got to the stable, Joseph found a soft hay bale for Mary to sit on. Then, he tied up the donkey. He
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swept out the stable and washed it. He fed the animals so that they would not make a noise. Then, the baby was born. He was a tiny little baby, with a round face and big eyes. He smiled at everyone. The people at the inns
hadn’t welcomed him. But the animals in the stable were glad to see him, and so were the angels and shepherds and wise men. The baby wasn’t an ordinary child, but he was better than any other child. Anastasia Marambos
The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 19
RERUN of May 2020 with Harry as it was a digital only copy
One of the first exercises a boy has to learn on camp is making a firerestrictions permitting. At first this is one thing a modern boy is not good at. Very few would ever qualify for an arsonist’s ticket. Give the modern boy a box of matches and he will amuse himself for hours trying to start a conflagration. If it had been left to a modern boy to incinerate Joan of Arc, she would probably would have got away with just having the hairs on her legs singed. After a set time and several boxes of matches, those who know how step in and share their knowledge on where to find kindling wood and build a fire. On joining each boy is given a pocket-knife
Page 20 The Woodpecker December 2021
and headlamp and expected to look after both. Using the pocket-knife, he is shown how to make a ‘fuzz’ stick or whittle shavings to start the fire. Of course, boys and pocket-knives are now off the PC list. In my day as a follower of Baden-Powell we all carried a pocket-knife on our belts. They were part of the uniform. Knives with dirty great blades and a spike thing for getting stones out of horses’ hooves. Which was all very well if you owned a horse but in reality, were as useless as an udder on a bull if your only steed was a bike. With our modern boy and pocketknives, we sometimes get a little blood, but nothing ever serious. Cont’d on Page 34
This Month with Harry Continuing the sad story of John Hazelhurst. The jury were taken to Green’s house to view the body. The Lyttelton Times reported “when the covering being removed the sight that met their eyes was most sickening. The body was covered from head to foot with bruises of a severe character”. This revelation led to a bit of gossip round the town that there may have been “suspected ill usage of the boy”. Hamish Green was first to give evidence stating she saw John playing with one of her sons and “observed him fall down near the pump”. He couldn’t get up so she carried him inside and “afterwards gave him a cup of tea and some senna”. She sent for neighbours John Salkeld and Mrs Little and “just after this the child died”. Several other witnesses were called. Headmaster Edwin Mossman described John as a pallid delicate boy who in his lessons was “quiet, sharp, shrewd and plodding”. In her evidence, Nina Gresson said that John was “not a firm fleshed healthy boy but rather a boy with a thoroughly unhealthy constitution”. Working on the evidence of Doctor Ovenden the jury concluded sunstroke was cause of death in the interim. As there was some doubt, Caleb Whitefoord adjourned the inquest to “enable the police to make further enquiries”. John was buried on Wednesday 23rd 1885. A team of police led by Inspector Pender continued with their enquiries.
As a result of these a new examination as to the cause of death was ordered. A week later John Salkeld, the local undertaker exhumed John and a further post-mortem was carried out, this time by Drs Ovenden, Syme and Guthrie. This was made all the more difficult by the fact the coffin was full of water and the body in a state of decompensation. At this time the doctors were in possession of a police report from Inspector Pender. They have also dissected the body and reached new conclusions. This in itself must have been a lot of fun.” Pender deposed I know Sarah Hazelhurst, the reputed mother of the boy. She is a prostitute in Christchurch. The mother has been detained in Addington under the provisions of the Contagious Diseases Act. I have made every enquiry into the character of the Greens. I consider both the Greens very respectable people, of good character.” In short, the mother was banged up in the women’s prison as she had a dose of a STD. The three doctors produced a very detailed report of their post-mortem and had reached their conclusion that John had died of sunstroke. This condition was aggravated by the fact John suffered from inherited syphilis. “The evidence which the organs of the body furnish of the existence of hereditary syphilis are startling and unique.” They reburied John. In the destination column of the school roll his fate reads simply “dead”. JH The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 21
Page 22 The Woodpecker December 2021
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Cancer Society What’s Happening in North Canterbury
We would like to invite you to join our Cancer Society webinars held fortnightly on a Wednesday from 10.00am – 11.00am. Upcoming Webinars 8 December - Coping with Emotions and Communication 22 December - Finding a New Normal To join live on Zoom please email: psychologists@akcansoc.org.nz Please call or text Gabrielle on 021 904 907 or 0800 226 695 to find out more about any of support our groups. Fundraising & Events On the 5th day of Christmas my true love gave to me a ticket to a movie! The Cancer Society North Canterbury
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GYM NOVICES WELCOME Feet fitter / stronger / healthier
Great new member care programme Rangiora - 313 0909 Kaiapoi - 327 7250 Page 24 The Woodpecker December 2021
is hosting “Respect”, a Biopic of Aretha Franklin at the Oxford Town Hall on Sunday 5 December 2021 at 5.30pm. This will be an evening of wonderful entertainment with an incredible movie, drink and nibbles on arrival and the opportunity to purchase Christmas gifts, raffles and maybe an auction item too!! Raffle items include an autographed copy of Toni Street’s book, Lost & Found and gorgeous plant platters including flower and vegetable plants from Behind the Hedge Garden Centre, vouchers from Woodend Nursery and Querky Style Roses at Cust and other gardening goodies! Gather some girlfriends, your mum or aunty, your partner or a group of workmates and come along for what will be a fantastic night out. All profits go to the Cancer Society North Canterbury to support our local services for cancer patients, whānau and carers. Tickets available at the following locations: Cancer Society North Canterbury Centre, 143 Percival Street, Rangiora. Raffle tickets also available from the centre. Emma’s at Oxford, 53 High Street, Oxford
Online at https://events.humanitix. com/respect-movie-night For more information please contact Tiff Wafer on 0800 226 695 or 021139 4909 or email tiffany.wafer@ cancercwc.org.nz. Longest Day Golf Challenge The challenge is to complete 72 holes in 1 day between 1st December and the end of January, pick a course and sign yourself up. Golfers can either
do this in teams (usually 3-4) or individually. Go to https://longestday. org.nz/ to register or find out more. The News Christmas Tree Festival, Monday 4 – Friday 17 December, Waimakariri District Council Foyer. Coordinated by Soroptimist North Canterbury. Come and support this fantastic festive event and see the Cancer Society’s uniquely decorated tree! Kindly sponsored by Kirstyn Barnett at Property Brokers Rangiora. From all the team at the Cancer Society North Canterbury we wish you all a safe and Merry Christmas & festive season. We are very excited about 2022 and look forward to communicating with you about our support services, fundraising and events in the new year. Thank you for your support! “Cancer Society North Canterbury”, please like or share our page to widen our support network.
The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 25
PEGASUS LAKE UPDATE
Templeton Group have advised us that they have submitted a planning application to ECan for the lake trial. We will keep you updated as we know more.
PEGASUS RESIDENTS’ CHRISTMAS ON THE LAKE EVENT
Due to the COVID situation, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the 2021 PRGI Christmas on the Lake. We are disappointed to not be able to bring this event to our community again. As you can appreciate, there are still unknowns in terms of how the new ‘traffic light’ system will work. Instead, we are aiming to do a community event sometime in February - keep an eye on our Facebook page for updates.
PRGI COMMITTEE CHANGES Ronel Stephens has resigned from the PRGI Committee after five years. She has been an incredibly hard-working member in her role as Community Connector and she was also part of the PCC Team (see more on this further on). We want to thank Ronel for her tireless work and wish her all the very best in her future endeavours.
2022 PEGASUS RESIDENTS SURVEY
We intend to do our biennial Pegasus Website: pegasusresidentsgroup.com
Page 26 The Woodpecker December 2021
Residents' Survey early in the New Year, and we will welcome your feedback! The survey lets us know what is important to you and what you want for our future Pegasus community. This will then guide our strategic plans for PRGI's future focus. This includes building on the excellent work already achieved at the Community Centre, especially as WDC has now allocated funds in their Long-Term Plan to build a new purposebuilt facility to better meet our growing community’s needs.
ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY? What are YOU passionate about? Is there something that drives you mad in the community that you feel no one is doing anything about? Now is your chance to DO SOMETHING about it! We invite all those who are passionate about our unique Pegasus community and environment to think about joining the PRGI Committee. On our Committee, we each have our own passions and strengths and therefore get to work on issues that we find fulfilling. And at the same time, we get to help and support others and work as a team. We also recognise and embrace that we have a broad and diverse community, and we would like to reflect that on our PRGI Committee. If you would like to share your ideas and become a Committee member, please Facebook: Pegasus Residents’ Group Inc
get in touch with our Secretary via: prgi@pegasusresidentsgroup.com.
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR VOLUNTEERS The PRGI would like to thank our PCC and Community Watch volunteers and other helpers. They are very much an essential part of helping deliver wonderful community services for all of our residents, and we appreciate all their hard work this year.
continue to run well. Nothing will change operation-wise or in terms of the services provided at the centre. PCC CHRISTMAS HOURS The centre will only be CLOSED on: Saturday 25 December and Saturday 01 January. It will be open as normal the rest of the period thanks to our PCC volunteers. Pegasus Community Centre (PCC) Opening Times: • •
COMMUNITY CENTRE NEWS Two members, Ronel Stephens and Rhonda Mather have left our Pegasus Community Centre (PCC) Team. We want to acknowledge that they have both played a vital part in helping set up the Pegasus Community Centre and the array of services it provides. We thank them for their amazing work and dedication to our community. NEW PCC-SUB COMMITTEE Moving forward, the PRGI Committee will run the Pegasus Community Centre through a dedicated PCC SubCommittee. We are excited about the future and moving ahead positively. Our PCC Sub-Committee includes Roger Rule, Rae Wakefield-Jones, and Chris Lambie, who are all PRGI committee members. They will ensure things Website: pegasusresidentsgroup.com
Monday 2 till 4pm Wednesday & Saturday 10am till 12noon
For FREE books, jigsaws, Welcome Bags, buckets, bus timetables, loads of pamphlets and information. Our volunteers are here to help. EVERYONE IS WELCOME!
JP DROP-IN SESSION The last Justice-of-the-Peace (JP) drop in sessions for the year are on Saturday 4th & 18th December from 10.30 – 11.30am. No appointment needed, just come along on the day. BOOKS & PUZZLES FOR THE HOLIDAYS Make sure you have enough to read over the Xmas break! Grab a free book or puzzle from our Book Cave.
MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM PRGI We wish you and your family a safe and very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Facebook: Pegasus Residents’ Group Inc
The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 27
Applies to Christmas Set Menu bookings with minimum 20 people. For more info phone 039676891 or email info@thegoodhomepegasus.co.nz Page 28 The Woodpecker December 2021
TODAY
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The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 29
Kia Ora koutou These last two terms seem to have disappeared very quickly. Our staff have been extremely busy with online learning, camps, extra-curricular activities, sports and the day-to-day teaching in the Active Learning Spaces. Currently many of our students are on camps or have recently returned. I really enjoy looking at the happy faces from camp on our Facebook page. They are having so many adventures and these memories will last forever. Recently, our Apple Distinguished School status was renewed. This is a huge achievement and, although all staff are on board with this and have their Apple Teacher Certificates, it couldn’t have happened without the hard work and determination of Mrs Rachel Kelly. Rachel leads Digital Learning and Technology in our school and spends a lot of her own time ensuring the students and staff have plans that encourage the use of Apple Software. I am continually amazed at the animations, the movies, the presentations I see and the ability our students have for coding. Another huge achievement was our success at the recent Digi Awards. Page 30 The Woodpecker December 2021
We received two Year 3/4 awards and Overall runner up. The Digi Awards are a celebration of students’ e-learning talents. Our teams were trained by Mrs Róisín Anglesey - another of our very talented teachers. Róisín is our SeeSaw lead but has many other digital skills that she passes on to her students. We are very privileged to have staff of this calibre on our team. At Pegasus Bay School our sports lead, Jen Loffhagen, ensures every child who wants to, is able to participate in sport over and above our regular programmes. She is often seen in the gym very early helping with training for our Korfball and Basketball teams. Jen has also managed to run our Senior and Junior school athletics very successfully despite our Covid restrictions. Jen is
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helped by a large group of staff who give up their time for training and the general admin behind all of these sports events. There is always something happening at PBS, and already we are looking towards 2022. It will be here before we know it! Nga Mihi Di Murphy Deputy Principal
Woodpecker Deadline
The Woodpecker is published 11 months of the year from February to December inclusive (December covers January). Each month the deadline is 25th of the month with a 5.00pm deadline. A twice-monthly email reminder is sent out to all contributors, advertisers and community contributors as a reminder. To ensure your space please do send us in your contributions as early as possible where you can as we would hate for you to be disappointed and miss out. From this deadline date there is a tight turnaround to have The Woodpecker ready to go to the printers for them to deliver The Woodpecker to all our deliverers in time for a 1st of the month delivery to your doors.
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Poolwerx Christchurch 021 783 463 | christchurch@poolwerx.co.nz The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 31
COMMUNITY CONTACTS
GLADSTONE PARK ADVISORY GROUP Chairperson, Mark Paterson 312 7439 Kaiapoi & Pegasus Croquet Club Captain: Adrienne Lamb 921 2895
LOLLIPOPS PRESCHOOL PEGASUS 943 4935 cm.pegasus@ledu.co.nz lollipopseducare.co.nz/location/pegasus MENZSHED PEGASUS & WOODEND COMMUNITY TRUST Clive Jones 027 245 5770 John Burns 021 347 805 menzshedpegasuswoodend@gmail.com MUSIC AND PLAY Meaghan 027 392 6409 NORTH CANTERBURY WOODCRAFT CLUB Merv Laws 021 237 7105 David Crawford 027 341 0246 Pegasus Brownies pegasusbrownies@gmail.com PEGASUS BROWNIES pegasusbrownies@gmail.com PEGASUS COMMUNITY CENTRE Bookings and enquiries contact: Waimakiriri District Council Freephone: 0800 965 468 www.waimakariri.govt.nz PEGASUS COMMUNITY CENTRE TEAM Email: pcc@pegasusresidentsgroup.com PEGASUS MONDAY MORNING WALKING GROUP Christine Johnston 021 179 7330 PEGASUS RESIDENTS GROUP INC prgi@pegasusresidentsgroup.com www.pegasusresidentsgroup.com Facebook: Pegasus Residents’ Group Inc. PEGASUS WOODEND WOMEN’S INSTITUTE Helen Power 313 5749 Pam Cleeve 03 3138120 / 021 170 9895 RADIO SAILING CLUB Ian McGregor 027 595 9000 Paul Johnson 021 295 2587 ST BARNABAS ANGLICAN CHURCH Men’s Group: Andrew 021 073 5730 Women’s Group: Amy 021 234 4253 Page 32 The Woodpecker December 2021
Hall Hire: Elizabeth 313 4612 THE ASHLEY LODGE Norme Shore - Secretary theashleylodge28@gmail.com http://www.ashley28.net.nz TIMEBANK WAIMAKARIRI Email: tbwaimakariri@gmail.com 021 0265 4071 Website: waimakariri.timebanks.org Facebook: facebook.com/ timebankwaimakariri TOY LIBRARY rangioratoylibrary@gmail.com TUAHIWI COMMUNITY PRE-SCHOOL 313 2141 tuahiwipreschool@xtra.co.nz https://www.facebook.com/tuahiwi. preschool www.tuahiwicommunitypreschool WAIKUKU BEACH SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB Danelle Asher wbslsc@wbslsc.com WOODEND BADMINTON CLUB Paul Henderson 0274 925 936 WOODEND BOWLING CLUB President Gill Beale 310 6612 Secretary Phil Harris 327 6553 WOODEND BOYS’ CLUB John Harris 313 7832 WOODEND COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION INC President Mark Paterson Secretary Jim Stringleman j.stringleman@ xtra.co.nz WOODEND FLOWER SHOW President Evelyn Paget 314 9195 Secretary Helen Power 313 5749 Treasurer Pam Cleeve 313 8120 WOODEND FRIENDSHIP CLUB President John Fortster 327 3681 Secretary Lynn Muir 312 2027 WOODEND GARDEN CLUB President Brenda Batchelor 313 9556 Secretary Lynn Oliff 310 0575 Treasurer Pam Cleeve 313 8120
COMMUNITY CONTACTS WOODEND GOLDEN OLDIES RUGBY & NETBALL President Tony Hurley 312 7311
027 722 8011 Junior Club Captain, Michelle Tocker 021 267 1429
WOODEND GYM CLUB Simone Templeton 027 514 8363
WOODEND SEFTON COMMUNITY BOARD Chairperson Shona Powell 021 0231 6152 shona.powell@wmk.govt.nz Deputy Chairperson Andrew Thompson
WOODEND INDOOR BOWLING CLUB Club President Andrew Petrie 022 592 8389 Club Captain Rex Macauley 313 3627 or 021 126 3344
WOODEND SENIOR CRICKET CLUB Robert Davey 021 762 963
WOODEND JUNIOR CRICKET Amy Hallmark woodend.cricket@gmail.com
WOODEND TENNIS CLUB Jim Bucknell 313 9405
WOODEND METHODIST CHURCH Minister Rev. Veitomoni Siufanga 313 1912 Hall Bookings, Evelyn 312 7740
WOODEND VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE Chief Fire Officer Lew Grant 021 1311 780 lewsandra@xtra.co.nz www.fireandemergency.nz
WOODEND NETBALL CLUB President Caitlin Loose 027 787 5365 Secretary Rachael Paterson 021 166 2740 WOODEND & PEGASUS LIONS GROUP President John Canton 310 8157 Secretary Anne Attenborough 313 6124 Youth Centre Brian Attenborough 313 6124 WOODEND PLAY CENTRE 027 353 2131 woodend@playcentre.org.nz Facebook: www.facebook.com/ woodendplaycenter WOODEND PRESCHOOL / NURSERY Jana Thorn 312 7654 office@woodendpreschool.co.nz www.woodendpreschool.co.nz WOODEND RUGBY CLUB Senior Club Captain, Matthew McLeod
WOODEND / WAIKUKU PLUNKET Clare Hewett 312 2640
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NEXT ISSUE FEBRUARY 2022 Deadline for advertisements and community articles is 25 January 2022 The Woodpecker Digital Issue Available on: www.issuu.com/ thewoodpecker4 Email: debs.thewoodpecker@outlook.co.nz Cell: 021 863 877 Post / Cheques: Debs Taylor-Hayhurst, Editor PO Box 78333, Pegasus 7648
The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 33
Cont’d from Page 20
RERUN of May 2020 with Harry as it was a digital only copy
Nothing that a band-aid and a couple of reassuring words doesn’t fix. And if the finger does go buggy and falls off, he will just have to learn to pick his nose with one of the other nine. In fact, during 51 years of dealing with Woodend youth there has only been one boy that needed a visit to a doctor. On a camp at Duvauchelle, a little boy named Kevin Wells, who today works for a local Honda outfit, managed to get a fishhook embedded in his finger. When given the choice he chose going to the Akaroa doctor rather than letting the leaders remove it. Little whimp!! After a bit of guidance, the challenge is Page 34 The Woodpecker December 2021
then set to light the fire using only one match. Sometimes they have to use one match several times, but it doesn’t take long to become proficient. The next item on the survival and selfreliance programme is bivouac making. First up you explain to the troops what a ‘bivvie’ is. It’s a shelter or a hut. You then explain what a hut is. One of the saddest things with a modern boy is the demise of hut building. In days of yore every household in Woodend containing a boy had a hut on the place, or up the resident tree or on the neighbouring vacant section. It had something to do with descending from primitive man did hut building. Cont’d on Page 53
St Barnabas Church
It has been another interrupted year, due to COVID, however it has been encouraging and inspiring to see both adults and young folk continuing to attend our church services and activities. We were delighted to welcome Stephen Dunne to our church on 30 October as our Ministry Team Leader. A great number of our congregation turned out to support him, including around 50 children, in a unique and very meaningful service. As always, it is a joy to see the Music and Play pre-schoolers singing along with their caregivers each Wednesday; and we hope you can join us at the final session for 2021 on 15 December. Plans are afoot to make this a special event for the children, so don’t miss out! Also coming to an end for the year on 15 December 2021 are the adult home groups. Participants always take a few weeks break over Christmas – but they’re more than ready to resume meeting in the New Year. A 2022 start date hasn’t been announced as yet, but it will be. The Tribe youth group has already finished for the year, with an End of Year family barbecue on 13 November at Spencer Park. It was an awesome outing, they’re a great bunch of young people and their energy and enthusiasm just keeps growing. The Tribe will be back in business from February. The groups may be winding down, but the build-up to Christmas is just beginning. A major highlight is
Christmas Eve, when we meet at the church at 11.15pm to share mince pies and mulled wine, before attending the Christmas Eve candlelit service. And of course there is the 9.30 am Christmas Day service, when we celebrate the joy of Christ’s birth. We would love you to join us at any – or all – of these services. Due to its proximity to Christmas, we will not be holding a 9.30am service on 26 December; other than this, there will be a 9.30am service every Sunday. The last 4.32pm service for the year is on 19 December, 4.32pm services resume again on 23 January 2022. Here’s wishing you all the joy and peace of the Christmas season!
Pegasus Plus After a very disappointing year with Covid totally disrupting our monthly get together we would like to wish all our faithful visitors a very Happy, Healthy and Safe Christmas and a very much better 2022. We look forward to being back at the Pegasus Community Centre on 23 February 2022 at the usual time 1.00pm - 3.00pm and hope to see as many of you there as can make it. Kay & David The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 35
We are OPEN at different alert levels but will be operating slightly differently. If you have a health concern need medication or would like to book a consult, call us as usual on 03 920 4060. At all alert level 2,3 and 4, we are required to have patients sign in at the entrance either using the manual tracer or the QR code and wear a mask. COVID SWABS: Patients who have been in locations of interest or who have symptoms such as sore throat, runny nose, cough, loss of smell, fever, shortness of breath. We encourage you to call us to book a test. Covid swabs are free. Please Wait in the Car Park. COVID VACCINATION: We are running COVID Vaccine clinics on Saturdays (all day). Wednesdays and Thursday evenings. From 12 December, we will be running Saturdays only (9.30-12.30 and 2.00 to 5.00) You can book online through bookmyvaccine or by calling 0800 282926 or Walk in. You do not have to be enrolled with the medical centre; this is for everyone 12 years old and over. APPOINTMENTS ARE AVAILABLE ON BOOKMYVACCINE. BOOSTER Doses will be available from 29 November for over 18 years old, provided you had your 2nd dose 6 months or over prior. If you have any concerns or questions about having the COVID vaccine, Page 36 The Woodpecker December 2021
please call us to speak with one of our nurses or book an appointment with the nurse or GP to discuss, free of charge. We encourage patients to register and use ‘Manage My Health’ portal. You can use it for booking a consultation, seeing your results, recalls and to request repeat prescriptions. If you need assistance to register with MMH, please contact our reception team who will be happy to help. If you have any issues with MMH, contact NZsupport@mmhglobal.com You can download the app from the App store or Google Play, or our website https://www.managemyhealth.co.nz Our phone lines have been extremely busy, and some patients find it hard to get through. Thank you for your patience. For non-urgent requests (results, advice, repeat prescriptions,) you can directly email the nurses: nurses@pegasusmedicalcentre.co.nz. For any urgent requests, you need to call reception. If you have a medical emergency or are acutely unwell, please call 111. If you have an urgent /acute condition, do not use Manage My Health, call us to speak to a nurse Saturday Clinics are temporarily withheld until level 1. Appointments are 15 minutes to cover
1 or 2 issues. If you have more issues, please book 2 appointments. Mole Checks and Musculoskeletal issues need 2 appointments. If you have a mole of concern or which has changed, book a single appointment and we will see you within a week. There might be a wait for routine mole checks due to demand. We would like to thank our patients for their support as we have navigated a challenging year. We have worked extremely hard to continue to deliver quality medical care. We are extremely proud od our dedicated and hardworking team at Pegasus Medical Centre. Finally, we would like to wish our community a very happy Christmas and a relaxing Holiday Break and looking forward to seeing you in 2022. 52 Pegasus Main street, Pegasus Town Ph 03 920 4060 www.pegasusmedicalcentre.co.nz
To all our Patients of Pegasus Medical Centre
We have become aware of some negative feelings around our processes in accessing appointments at the Centre and wanted to give some context to you all as we continue to navigate our way through the fast changing and uncertain times of this Pandemic. Our primary objective is to deliver consistently high standards of healthcare safely and to support our extremely hard working and dedicated staff who have worked under extreme pressure over the past 20 months. We know our phone lines have been busy and appointments have been
difficult to get but we want you to know we will never turn you away. To summarise our policy (which is supported by directives from the Ministry of Health): 1. If you call and no immediate appointment is available you will be telephone triaged to a Nurse who will call you back. She will make a clinical decision on how and when you need to be seen. 2. If you are late for your appointment, it may not be possible to see the doctor. Again you will be triaged if the matter is urgent, or an alternative appointment offered. 3. If you are symptomatic (running nose, cough, cold) we require you to be seen in your car. This is to keep you, other patients and our Staff safe as per Ministry of Health guidelines. 4. If you present with potentially life-threatening illness (e.g. cardiac issues,) resources will be channelled to you directly and ahead of others. We appreciate your time and patience if you are kept waiting. We are fortunate to have the Staff and resources to support people in our community – particularly when they become critically unwell. 5. We have noticed that many patients are not showing up for their appointments or cancelling at short notice. Please remember to call us as soon as possible if you cannot make your appointment to give others an opportunity to be seen. We very much appreciate your support and understanding as we try to keep you well and safe. From the Team at Pegasus Medical Centre
The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 37
Rangiora Toy Library
Calling all Rangiora toy library friends A reminder that ALL toys must be returned clean, and no later than Saturday 18 December 2021 ready for our annual stocktake. Please check around the house for any missing parts and drop them back to us. Now is the time to book your outdoor toys for the Christmas break. These can be booked in the library directly with Vikki and must be paid in advance to secure your booking. Toys are either $5 or $10 each and a list is in the library with the prices. We return from the summer break on Friday 21 January 2022. We hope you have a wonderful Christmas and lovely summer break. Rangiora Toy Library Page 38 The Woodpecker December 2021
Attention Advertisers and Community Groups
Are you part of a group which you would like to promote? Are you a small local business who would like to promote themselves? Do you have any community stories you would like to share? Have you any information or notices you would like to share? YES? We would love to hear from you!
Rose and Table Show Results
Jose Gill for Roses First - Fran Brown Second - Maureen Day and Brenda Batchelor Premier Award – Fran Brown Barbara Memorial Tray for Flowers First - Fran Brown Second - Maureen Day and Tricia DeHaan Premier Award – Glenis Evert Pam Balvers Tray Decorative Open Section First - Helen Power Second - Rae Miller and Shirley Wheeler Premier Award – Helen Power Lorna Knarston Plate – Decorative Novice
FRAMEMAKERS All Picture Framing Photography and Canvas Printing Framing Supplies
First - Fran Maureen Day Second - Pam Mason and Shirley Rogers Premier - Maureen Day Brenda Batchelor Cup for Vegetables First - Brenda Batchelor Second - Tricia DeHaan – Rae Miller Premier – Brenda Batchelor Brenda Batchelor Trophy for Preserves and Cookery First - Ruth Vaughan Second - Brenda Batchelor Third - Rae Miller Premier – Ruth Vaughan Rose Bowl Trophy – For most points overall First - Brenda Batchelor Second - Maureen Day and Rae Miller
Art Gallery 137 Main North Road Woodend Open Tuesday to Friday 9.30am - 5.00pm Closed Saturday, Sunday Monday and public holidays
03 312 2276
enquiries@framemakers.co.nz www.framemakers.co.nz
The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 39
Woodend Methodist Church
We have held two special Church Services in the last month – a candle lighting service where we lit candles for loved ones who passed on during the year. This is always a moving service. Last week we had a favourite hymn service – lots of music and a good old singalong. Last weekend we held a very successful Tabletop Sale for the Parish which has raised about $1,000. The leadup to Xmas (Advent) begins on 28 November 2021 culminating on Xmas Day. There will be a Xmas Eve service at Trinity Rangiora at 7.30pm. Xmas Day there will be a short service at Woodend at 9am and one at Trinity Rangiora 9.30am. The last monthly movie for the year will be shown on Wednesday 1 December at 1pm and will be the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical “South Pacific”. Afternoon Tea to follow. Gold Coin donation. Please phone Ruth on 312 2094 if you have any queries. Sunday 12 December 2021 at both churches we are having a pet service when you bring along any of your pets and tell a brief story about them. Veitomoni is leaving this Parish at the end of the year. His final service will be at Woodend and Rangiora on Sunday 2 January 2022. Veitomoni has an appointment in the Mangere Otahuhu Area. Darryn Hickling of Durham Street Methodist will be commencing with us in February 2022. Services will continue through January at Woodend at 9am. All welcome. Our minister Veitomoni Siufanga is available at Rangiora Methodist Church, Page 40 The Woodpecker December 2021
176 King Street, Rangiora – 313 3448 or rangioramethodist@gmail.com He is at the Church from 9am to 5pm on Tuesday and Wednesday. If you need to see him on Thursday or Friday, please ring and make an appointment. He is available to provide prayer, support and a welcome for anyone with any needs, or who wants to drop in.
Merry Christmas
Name_________________________________Age________Phone_______________ Email your entry by Friday 17 December 2021 to: rangiorapromotions@gmail.com Competition drawn on: 20th December and winners notified by 21st December Visit www.rangiorapromotions.co.nz for more information The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 41
Rangiora Promotions
SUPER Christmas Raffle BE IN TO WIN ONE OF OVER 30 GREAT PRIZES:
$200 Mitre 10 Mega Gift Card Surmanti Gift Pack (donated by I’Adore) (valued at approximately $250) $200 Rangiora & Kaiapoi Toyota Voucher (on services and products) Kreative Funk Family Hoodie and T-shirt Pack (valued at approximately $200) $100 Rangiora RSA Club & Spitfire Restaurant Voucher (donated by Bayleys North Canterbury) $100 Winne Bagoes Voucher (donated by Quinovic Property Management) $100 I’Adore Voucher (donated by Raewyn Bishop – Total Realty) $100 Mitre 10 Mega Gift Card $100 Niche Voucher (donated by Ray White Morris & Co. Property Management, Rangiora) Marion & Co. Jewellery Handmade Silver Pendant & Chain Tuesday T-Shirt (size 12) & All About Eve Cap (white) (donated by Robe Boutique) Mike Pero Racing Jacket Wellness & Beauty Pack (donated by Life Pharmacy Rangiora) Anytime Fitness 3 Month Membership Gift Voucher Bouquet of Flowers (donated by Fi’s Flowers ‘n’ Art) Farmers Luxury Gift Hamper New World Rangiora Gift Basket X3 Mitre 10 Mega BBQ Packs (filled with products) X2 Mitre 10 Mega Kids Backpacks (filled with products) Mike Pero Kid’s Summer Pack (drink bottle, bag & cricket set) $50 The Plough Gift Voucher $50 Fi’s Flowers ‘n’ Art Voucher $50 The Warehouse Voucher $50 Coffee Worx Voucher $50 Mitre 10 Mega Gift Card PURCHASE TICKETS TODAY - $4 each or $10 for 3 tickets Online Ticket Sales: Email rangiorasecretary@gmail.com with your ticket/s request Deposit funds to: 02 0876 0045094 00 (use your name as a reference) Visit a participating location to purchase tickets via cash: Coffee Worx Rangiora, Southbrook Hire, Life Pharmacy Rangiora, Mike Pero Rangiora, Fi’s Flowers ‘n’ Art, The Plough Hotel, Monteith’s Rangiora and Winnie Bagoes Rangiora. www.rangiorapromotions.co.nz for more details Page 42 The Woodpecker December 2021
Woodpecker Donations
Wishing You A Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! Are you looking for a celebrant for a special occasion? Weddings, Civil Unions & Vow Renewals
The Woodpecker is a community publication and registered charity, individuals can claim a ‘donation tax credit’ for donations of $5 or more to The Woodpecker. This tax credit equals 33.33% (one third) for all qualifying donations made.
About our celebrant: Bonnie Tainui is a young, enthusiastic, and compassionate celebrant who is passionate about our community & helping others.
Learn more: magnoliasupportingyou.com magnoliasyou magnolia_supporting_you
022 080 9079 magnoliasyou@outlook.com
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Are you a local business wishing to advertise your products or services? Please email the Editor to ask about our advertising rates. You can be an occasional or recurring advertiser, the latter securing your place each month. Email our Editor Debs on debs. thewoodpecker@outlook.co.nz
The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 43
As we begin to start the countdown till the end of the school year, we reflect on a very different year in terms of what we have or have not been able to do according to Covid Alert Levels. At this stage our Year 5/6
students are still looking forward to going to the Living Springs camp in the last week of term. Our Year 8 dinner at
Bramble Grove is able to go ahead but of course without parents there. Page 44 The Woodpecker December 2021
However, our staff will be attending and will make it a very special night for them all. We were able to hold our Whare Manu Big Day In last week where both students and teachers had a fantastic time. We had the InflataRun set up on the Rec, STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) activities in Te Ngahere, and also art activities in Te Whiri for the students throughout the day. Luckily the weather was kind to us. We are now working on organisation and class placements for 2022 and would appreciate any families who may have a child starting during the year, to make contact with you. Nga mihi nui Adrienne Simpson (Principal)
We have had a challenging year with covid-19 but in addition local government has been challenged with the proposed Three Waters Reform, Future for Local Government and Resource Management changes, ALL remove local say and control of community assets. Whilst some change is inevitable I continue to work to protect YOUR rights and to ensure a local voice.
Merry Christmas and a safe and healthy New Year! Philip Redmond QSM Waimakariri District Councillor | Kaiapoi Woodend Ward
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Pegasus parkrun In normal times there would be almost 500 walkers, joggers and runners doing parkrun in Canterbury on a Saturday morning. Unfortunately, parkruns are still paused across New Zealand at the time of writing. However, we are on the way to the festive season – and that’s never a bad thing! We have quite a few plans to keep our festive period interesting for local walkers, joggers and runners of Pegasus town and surrounds! To keep ourselves busy we have our parkrunners to run to Rarotonga and back from Christchurch Airport. This is a total distance of 7116km, as of the end of November we were close to achieving our goal! November is Epilepsy Awareness month and this year Pegasus parkrun have adopted Epilepsy New Zealand on the lead up to Xmas. They have a bucket at The Flat White café if you would like to donate, or you may donate directly through their web site at: http://epilepsy.org.nz/support-us Over on the Pegasus parkruns Facebook page we are celebrating the 12 days of Xmas. This is a heap of fun where we count down towards Christmas Day through a series of countdown posts – do check them out if you’d like a smile. You may notice Page 46 The Woodpecker December 2021
other paid events going ahead – this is great to see. Commercial operators are putting measures in place to manage the risk to participants (staggered starts, physical distancing in the start area, etc.), however parkruns are free and are 100% facilitated by awesome volunteers. parkruns have a ‘keep it simple’ philosophy and placing the logistical burden onto our awesome volunteers to re-enact these additional complex arrangements every Saturday is simply not practical. parkrun seek to unite people across the world under the shared banner of free community-led, socially focused, physical activity to create a healthier and happier planet. Free, for everyone, forever. We remain focused on restarting as soon as we can continue doing this. We will continue to keep you up to date as things evolve. Hopefully we won’t have to wait for too long. For now, you can still take part in (not)parkruns, our virtual alternative to parkruns. These are free and we post the results out every Monday on Facebook for the previous week. Check out the posts on this page for more info. Registering to do parkruns, or (not) parkruns is totally free – visit www. parkrun.co.nz/register to get started. See you out on the trails around Pegasus!
Kaiapoi Community Garden Volunteer days
Considering buying a rental property or expanding your investment property portfolio? Contact Rachelle NOW for great hints & tips on choosing the right rental. 80 Ivory Street, Rangiora P 03 3 106 106 M 027 558 1739
Wednesday 11am - 1pm and the last Saturday of the month 10am 11.30am. Come and join the Community Garden and learn about organic produce, composting skills and find likeminded people to share your love of gardening. For more information follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/KaiapoiCommunity-Garden
Rachelle Hughes Business Development Manager Email: rachelleh@quinovic-riccarton.co.nz
Can you find Mr Woody Woodpecker!
Mr Woody Woodpecker is ‘hidden’ amongst one of The Woodpecker pages. For fun, search for him and if you find him, please EMAIL the Editor with a photo of you pointing to the very page where Mr Woody Woodpecker is, and your photo will go in next month’s Woodpecker.
Want 1/8th advertising space? That’s this size! Email Debs on: debs.thewoodpecker@outlook. co.nz The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 47
Hunger, Thy Name is Labrador By Alison Dormaar
Just call me Walter. Well, you can make that Walt for short. My humans do. They’re alright, really. My humans, that is. They’re your standard four-person family; mum, dad, two kids, living in a nice suburban bungalow with a big back yard, patio and BBQ area. A decent leafy park is just down the road alongside the corner dairy - a vital part of any urban dog’s lifestyle nowadays. After all, what’s your daily walkies without a tasty treat at the end of it? If you’re a dog, I know you’ll fully agree with this. But I digress from my tale (tail, get it? Tail / tale. Heh heh). As for treats, I certainly make sure I get
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enough of those. After all, I am a dog. A Labrador, to be more exact. I belong to one of the most popular and beloved breeds on the planet. Admit it; no human can resist my soft, rounded golden body, the thick otter-like wagging tail, the ever-winning smile, and especially my large, liquid soft brown eyes. No-one can - well, except for the local butcher maybe. Of late he’s developed a nervous tic whenever I’m around. I do have a reputation as a sausage thief par excellence to maintain after all (my best friend, Honey, the standard poodle who lives just down the street provided me with the French bit there). As a Labrador, I am possessed of a keen nose and an appetite to match my baby seal-like appeal. My winsome, winning ways conceal a distinct streak
of craftiness and stealth, something I make sure to conceal from human knowledge. Ever since my earliest puppyhood, my natural mother taught me that. Play nice, she said, play dumb, and you’ll have them exactly where you want them. An air of feigned innocence when they notice fresh baked biscuits missing from the cooling tray or when you grab the delivery pizza out of human hands at the door is always very, very useful. Ohhh, they do get mad - but their bad mood never lasts. I just grin up at them and pant and wag my tail, and so they visibly wilt, sigh and shrug their shoulders and say, “Ah well, he’s just a dog. What does he know?” More fool them. Well...maybe not the vet. Most of the time.
“Walter,” says she, “you are just too conniving for your own good. You need to go on a diet.” But I give her that aggrieved what-did-I-do-wrong look and all too often she melts, sneaking me some bacon flavoured snacks when my humans aren’t watching and then sternly lecturing them about the issuing of excess treats when they are. They did try to diet me once. Low fat, low carbs, low taste. I whimpered and cried, demanding to know the reason for this unnatural and prolonged punishment for sins unknown. My mother had taught me an old canine motto; if you don’t get what you want, cry, cry, cry again. I can tell you; I was seriously miffed. Drastic steps had to be taken. With my family motto in mind, I tried it out the next time my humans hosted a big neighbourhood BBQ. They had The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 49
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locked me in the house, not wanting me to annoy the guests. I bided my time and kept silent, allowing them to get though the initial cocktails and snacks course. But no sooner had they put the marinated steaks on the grill than I started to howl, my nose pressed up hard and fast against the sliding doors. I allowed my drool to run unchecked down the glass for all to see. I made darn good and sure that my wails and cries of anguish deafened the radio they had playing outside, completely ruining any conversation they had going into the bargain. I ensured they all felt the sting of guilt that they gorged themselves while I starved. If nothing else, I am thorough. “I say,” one of them finally said, choking over his steak, “it all seems rather unfair on the dog.” So my shamed humans had to let me loose. What could they say? I was free to mooch and beg where I may - with most satisfactory results I may add. Well, so much for the diet. They haven’t tried it on me since. They’re riddled with guilt about potential animal cruelty, no doubt. Good ol’ Mum! She always knew best. I am that willing receptacle for the ends of runny half-finished ice cream cones at picnics, for half eaten school lunches. I am that ever-present eco warrior ready and able to dispose of leftovers at the dinner table with a single gulp. I am there in the kitchen to eagerly dispose of those burnt offerings from pot or pan, thus ensuring they do not fill up the waste bin and contribute to global warming. I am portable, energy efficient and totally dependable.
Mind you, one’s gourmand lifestyle does lead to complications, notably emitting greenhouse gases of a more ahem! - personal nature. However, this has its distinct advantages. After all, when one comes back inside one’s home, cold and tired after a long walk, there is nothing like curling up on the couch in front of the TV. The only thing is, often the couch is fully occupied, especially if the six o’clock evening news is due. Time for Operation Windy. So I sidle up to the couch, happy and affectionate. I flash my most winning smile, wag my otter-like tail, and accept the resulting avalanche of pats as my due. But even as they say, “Good dog!” that is when my smelly seepage starts, a silent but potent gas cloud guaranteed to evacuate the room in record time. Objective Couch achieved. I can’t help the way I am. Not really. I mean to say, I come from a long line of hungry hounds with a keener than keen taste for the gourmet side of life. Besides, I wouldn’t change - I’m onto a winning thing. Yup, it’s a big job being a much loved and over-indulged food disposal unit of choice. Maintaining one’s timeless appeal and universal charm is a 24/7 job after all. But hey, someone’s got to do it.
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Woodend-Sefton Community Board
Road Safety
The Board has recommended to Council all of the proposed speed limit reductions recently consulted on for some local roads. This included some shingle roads around Waikuku and Waikuku Beach. The Board had been advocating for some time for the limits to reviewed on sections of Gladstone Road, Petries Road and roads in Copper Beech in Woodend and it was positive to see them included in the review. Board Chair Shona Powell, along with the Mayor, met with the CEO of Waka Kotahi NZTA in November to outline concerns at the lack of action on the safety improvements on SH1 in Woodend and at the Pegasus roundabout. Shona said she felt they were heard but now have to see what action comes. One of her requests was to keep the community informed as this has not been happening. These safety improvements have been and will continue to be a real focus for the Board.
Updates
After a workshop and spending time talking with residents, the Board prepared their submission to the District Plan Review which closed recently. The ‘Meet a Planner’ sessions held in this area were very successful with good numbers attending at the Woodend and Pegasus Community Centres. Thank you to all those that asked questions over the District Plan Review and to those that lodged a submission. Preliminary discussions on the Gladstone Park Dog Park were held as part of a workshop. It focused on the access from Gladstone Road and the patchy grass that struggles in the sandy ground and the holes as dogs seem to enjoy the easy digging. Some other dog parks like the Rangiora Dog Park in the Milton Memorial Reserve have a friends group and a Facebook page with the aim being to encourage the use and also to improve the dog park. They fundraise and get support and sponsorship for the ‘extras’, like agility equipment and shelters. Perhaps a similar group could be established locally. Anybody keen?
Next meeting
Monday 13 December starting at 6pm, in the Woodend Community Centre.
Contact us – more information about the Board, and members contact
details are at waimakariri.govt.nz/your-council/council-boards-andcommittees/woodend-sefton-community-board Facebook: @WoodendSeftonCommunityBoard Email: shona.powell@wmk.govt.nz
Merry Christmas to you all from Board members. Stay safe and we look forward to continuing to work with you in 2022
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RERUN of May 2020 with Harry as it was a digital only copy
Cont’d from Page 43 They were the bane of local builders who, on Friday nights, had to make sure all their timber was nailed down to something. Failure to do so meant re-ordering on Monday morning and if the site shed hadn’t been locked properly there would never be any nails to start the week’s work. Nowadays with all the local development ancient boys would have had enough fodder for a hundred such abodes. Our boys are shown how to choose a site which offers the best natural base for their bivvie such as a bank, fallen
tree or convenient bushes. The frame is made with branches etc, all tied with natural material such as flax or tussock. The roof is then covered with fern or bracken or grass making sure we work from the bottom to the top, so we achieve a thatching effect. With a little guidance and encouragement, it can be quite amazing how our modern boys club member can revert to his ancient instincts and produce a satisfactory ‘house.’ The next thing is to spend the night in it weather permitting, which everyone has a turn at. Not all achieve a full night as sometimes a huge boy- eating animal will be heard snuffling around in the dark and we scarper to the safety of the hut. Cont’d on Page 55
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Dancewear & Alterations
For all your costume needs, Clothing alterations and Repairs Call Paula 027 627 7212 Check us out on Facebook
Woodend Netball Club 2021 AGM
Wednesday 1 December at 7.00pm Woodend Tennis / Netball Clubrooms, Gladstone Road New committee members required. Any queries phone Caitlin 027 787 5365
Lions Christmas Cakes
The festive season is approaching, and the Lions Club of Woodend Pegasus Town have Christmas cakes for sale. Ideal as Christmas gifts or in hampers for family, friends. work colleagues or clients. Our cost is $22.00 per cake and are very popular. Order early to avoid disappointment. Proceeds to various community groups. Contact Anne or Brian 313 6124
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Community Foot Care Clinics
Community Foot Care Clinics are run by Registered Nurses and held monthly at Amberly, Rangiora, Kaiapoi, Woodend, and Belfast. Please call 021 288 9618 to make an appointment.
Lions Club of Woodend Pegasus
Fundraising for local community projects as a volunteer. Support club activities but having fun and friendship. New members are very welcome. Dinner meetings on 3rd Thursday each month (own cost). For more details contact Brian on 027 958 8888.
RERUN of May 2020 with Harry as it was a digital only copy
Cont’d from Page 53 But the leaders don’t mind- at least we have given it a go. Occasionally just for the sheer hell of it and the weather is fine, we have our tea, gather up sleeping bags and groundsheets and head out the back. On reaching the highest point we can on the hill we find a suitable flat place, make a tussock bed and spend the night sleeping out. The alpine air makes for more visible starts, meteorites and satellites. A truly memorable experience and truly good boy-type fun. JH
Next Woodpecker is in February 2022 If you are interested in advertising your business or submitting a story or update about your club or group, a reminder the deadline will be on 25 January 2022. We are now circulating to 3,150 households. Great opportunity to promote your business, group, club, news or general update. Interested? Contact The Editor today! The Woodpecker December 2021 Page 55
Merry Christmas from PAWS, your family owned vet clinic
Enjoy the festive time with your family! Should your furry friends need our help, don’t panic, we are available to assist our clients. Just phone the clinic. The clinic will be open as normal outside statutory holidays.
PAWS VETS CONTACTS:
PHONE: 03 312 2669 EMAIL: pawsvets@gmail.com ADDRESS: 71 Main North Road, Woodend (between vegetable and coffee shops) HOURS: 8.30am - 5.30pm Monday to Friday 8.30am - 6.30pm Wednesdays
OPENING SOON IN
WOODEND Page 56 The Woodpecker December 2021