Andrea’s FeaturedPropertyListings
KelvinGrove 19GladysPlace
Startsmart-moveinandenjoy
Whetheryou’reafirst-timebuyerorseekingasmartinvestment, thiswell-presentedhomeoffersafantasticopportunityto secureyourplaceinthepopularsuburbofKelvinGrove.Step insidetodiscoveralight-filledopenplankitchenanddining areathatseamlesslyflowsintothecomfortablelounge.Fitted withaheatpumpandHRVventilationsystemwhichpromises year-roundcomfortinawarm,dryandinvitingenvironment. Thehomeboaststhreewell-proportionedbedrooms,anupdated mainbathroomcomplementedbyaseparatetoiletforadded convenience.Outdoorlivingismadeeasywithareardeck-ideal forsummerBBQsandentertainingfriends.
Buyers$470,000+
Awapuni 18RosePlace
Theentertainer’sdream
WelcometoanEntertainer’sDream-astriking,contemporary residencedesignedforthosewholovetohost,relaxandlivein style.Tuckedprivatelyattheendofapeacefulcul-de-sac,this exceptionalhomecombinesmoderncomfortswitheffortless indoor-outdoorliving.Stepinsidetodiscoverabeautifully modernisedopen-plankitchen,diningandlivingarea.The sleekblackandwhitekitchenisbothstylishandfunctional, featuringqualityfinishesandastatementBellingoven-perfect forthehomechef.Theadjoininglivingspacehasbeencleverly transformedintoabarareaandlinkingseamlesslytothe impressiveoutdoorentertainingzone.
ByNegotiation
Rongotea 7TrentStreet
Yoursummeroasisawaits
Thefeelingofpeaceandtranquillityisevidentfromthemoment youarriveat7TrentStreet.Thebeautifullyestablishedsection welcomesyouinandleadstoamuch-lovedhome,offered forsaleforthefirsttimesincebeingbuiltandownedbythe samefamily.Perfectlysetwithinthe2,023m2section(approx), thehometakesfulladvantageofitssurroundings,withevery windowofferingaleafygreenoutlook.Twolivingareasmake themostofthissetting,providingexcellentindoor-outdoorflow tothepatio.Thelargeloungewithopenfireleadsintoanopenplankitchen,dining,andlivingareawithawoodburner.
ByNegotiation
Hokowhitu 207VictoriaAvenue
PrideofplaceonVictoriaAvenue
Positionedontheever-popularVictoriaAvenue,thisgracious residencedeliversheritagelivingatitsmostinviting.Rich incharacter,andbeautifullysuitedtofamilylife,thehome showcasesclassicarchitecture,highceilings,andexquisite originaltimberdetailingthatinstantlysetaneleganttone.Set uponanexceptional1,444m2(approx)fullyfencedsection, theproperty’sgroundsaretrulyastandoutfeature.Mature plantings,sweepinglawnandsuperbprivacycreateanidyllic backdropfordailyliving,outdoorentertainingandchildren’s play.Inside,thelayoutisbothgenerousandpractical.
ByNegotiation
Hokowhitu 54IhakaStreet
Theluxuryofspace
SittingproudlyinthisiconicHokowhitulocationistheWillfox residence.Wearedelightedtopresenttheopportunitytoown ahomeoftrulymagnificentproportions-anarchitectural masterpiecewherenoexpensewassparedinitscreation. Commissionedasthepersonalresidenceandswansongofa respectedlocalbuilder,thepropertystandsasareflectionofa lifetime’swork.Acclaimedasoneofthecity’sfinesthomes,itis atitlethenewownercanupholdformanyyearstocomethanks toitstimelessandelegantappeal.Aprivateviewingisinvitedto experiencefirsthandthelifestylethisaward-winninghomeoffers itsnextowners.
ByNegotiation
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HALCOMBEMOTHERTURNING HEARTBREAKINTOHOPE:
TheStoryBehind The10thReindeer
shockofbecomingamotherwhile fightingforherlife.
Everysooften,youmeetsomeone whosestorystopsyouinyour tracks.Someonewhohaswalked throughunimaginablechallengeyet stillchoosestopourlovebackintothe world.ThatisthestoryofHalcombe localChloeDodunski,thewoman behindtheChristmascharityknownas The10thReindeer.
Chloe’slifechangeddramaticallyon whatshouldhavebeenthedayshe welcomedherdaughterMilaintothe world.Insteadofgoingintolabour, shesufferedasuddenseizure.TheCT scanthatfollowedrevealedalarge braintumour.Withindaysshehad undergoneanemergencycaesarean andwasflowntoWellingtonforbrain surgery.Sheremembersverylittleof thattime,wakinginbriefmomentsof clarityandtryingtocomprehendthe
ContactInformation:
Thetransitionhomewasequally overwhelming.Recoveringfrom majorsurgerywhilecaringfora newbornandheryoungsonpushed hertoherlimits.Shedescribesfeeling fragile,exhaustedanddisconnected, strugglingtobondwithababyshe barelyrememberedmeeting.Itwas apainfullyvulnerabletime,andyet eveninthatseason,asparkofpurpose continuedburninginthebackground.
Yearsbeforeherdiagnosis,Chloe hadstartedThe10thReindeerafter seeingparentsonlinedesperately askingwhattheycouldbuytheir childrenforChristmasonjustforty dollars.Shecouldnotshakethe thoughtofthosekidsgoingwithout. Thenextdayshereachedoutto oneofthefamilies,boughtgifts, andunknowinglybeganaChristmas traditionthatwouldgrowinto
ShonaLingham, CommercialLeader E:Shona.lingham@nzme.co.nz|P:0278955969
KieranCurley, MediaSpecialist E:kieran.curley@nzme.co.nz|P:0274989429
somethingremarkable.
Adecadelater,The10thReindeer nowsupportsupto120childreneach year.Everychildreceivesatleastten thoughtfullychosengiftsmatched totheirageandinterests.FromJune throughDecember,Chloeshops, organises,sortsandwraps,fuelled bydonationsfromkindlocalsanda growingnetworkofsupporters.This year,herpartnershipwithFeilding OrouaRotaryhasbroughtinvaluable hands-onhelp,somethingsheis deeplygratefulforafterrunningthe charitysoloforsolong.
Butbeyondthepresents,Chloe believesthetruegiftisthemessage: thateverychildisdeservingofjoy andeveryparentdeservestofeel
supported,notashamed.Forfamilies strugglingunderfinancialpressure, adonatedtoycaneaseemotional burdenswhilestillallowingthe parenttopresentthegiftthemselves, preservingdignityandconnection. Theimpactisseeninthehugs,the tears,thehandmadecardsandthe Christmasmorningvideosthatfamilies sendher.Thesemomentsstaywith her.Theyareremindersthatkindness ripplesfurtherthanweeverrealise.
AnyonewantingtosupportThe 10thReindeercandonatemoney, beallocatedachildtobuyfor,or purchasegiftsforChloetoaddinto giftbags.Findoutmoreonthe Facebookpage“TheTenthReindeer”.
Distribution: YoucanpickupyourcopyfromdropboxeslocatedthroughouttheManawatūsuburbs.
Submissions: Foreditorialcontentandphotos,pleasesendthemtoShonaLinghamatShona.lingham@nzme.co.nz.
AdvertisingEnquiries: Foradvertisingenquiries,pleasecontactShonaorKieran.
byReneeMurray
PALMYFOCUS
intoabetter2026.
Kiaora,
Peopleeitherloveorhatetotalk abouttheeconomy,butourlatest Cityeconomicupdateshowssome encouragingsignsasweheadinto thenewyear.Whilewe’renavigating manyofthesamechallengesasthe restofthecountry,PalmerstonNorth’s exportmarketsremainstrong,andkey sectorslikehealthcare,distributionand Defencecontinuetoprovidestability.
Non-residentialconstructionisalso astandoutperformer—up82.3%on lastyear—andjobsinthecityhave grown1.3%comparedwithanational decline.Withinflationandinterest ratesexpectedtoease,we’rehopeful householdsandbusinesseswillsoon feelalittlemorebreathingroom. Yournewcouncilisnowswornin andwe’vebeenbackintotheswing ofCouncilmeetingsagain.Ialso
wantedtothankthoseofyouwho havegivenfeedbackinourspeed limitconsultationaroundschools,and alsotoeveryonewhocamealongto therecentRingRoadsessions.This projectwillplayamajorroleinshaping howwemovearoundourcityinthe future,andyourfeedbackhelpsustest assumptions,understandlocalimpacts andrefinethepreferredroute.The projectteamisnowworkingthrough everythingyoushared,andwe’ll provideanotherupdateinearly2026.
SummerinPalmyisalreadyoff toagreatstart,withsomegreat weatherandthefestivespiritflowing throughourcityevents.NewYear’s andWaitangiDayarejustaround thecorner,withFestivalofCultures andEsplanadeDayconfirmedfor early2026.OurSummerReading Programmeatthelibraryisalso wellunderway—welldonetoall thechildrentakingpart.I’mlooking forwardtocelebratingwithyouinlate January.
Afewpracticalremindersforthe season:aswithlastyear,there’snofree kerbsideChristmastreecollection,but youcandroprealtreesattheAwapuni ResourceRecoveryCentrefreeof chargefromBoxingDaythroughto theendofJanuary.Andifyou’re65or older,now’sagreattimetoapplyfor your2026SuperGoldparkingpermit. Youcanapplyanytime,butgetting itsortedbeforeChristmashelps youavoidtheJanuaryrush.The$10 annualpermitgivesyoufreeparking
inanymeteredspacefrom9am–3pm, MondaytoFriday.Applicationsopen 1DecemberatourCustomerService CentreoratGreyPower—fulldetails areonourwebsite.
Ifyou’replanningoutyoursummer adventures,keepaneyeoutforthe newPalmyProudmagazine,available fromearlyDecember.It’spacked withideasforwhattosee,doand eataroundthecity—fromwalksand swimmingspotstoop-shopfindsand acloserlookatthehoteldevelopment intheoldPostOfficebuilding.And ifyou’restillhuntingforgifts,the PalmerstonNorthisitehasabrandnewrangeofPalmybrandedgearthat makesperfectpresentsforfriendsand whānaunearorfar.
Tostayconnectedoverthebreak, makesureyou’resubscribedto PalmyMatters,ourfortnightlyemail newsletter.It’squicklybecomingthe easiestwaytofollowwhat’shappening inthecity—frominfrastructure updatesandconsultationsto Councildecisions,eventsandhelpful reminders.Thousandsalreadyuseit astheirgo-tosourceforstayingin theknow,andyoucansignuponour website.
ThisismylastcolumnuntilFebruary, soIwishyouallasafe,sunnyand relaxingholidayseason.Enjoytime withyourwhānauandfriends—and remember,we’rehereifyouneed anythingoversummer.
GrantSmithJP MayorofPalmerstonNorthCity
Stepbackintimewithclassiccars,jazzcruises,retrofashion, andliveentertainment.Bringthewholefamilyandcreate unforgettablememoriesintheheartofWhanganui.
Property Brokers Melbourne Cup Long Lunch raises over $165,000 for The Grassroots Trust Rescue Helicopter
Tuesday’s Melbourne Cup Long Lunch proved that when it comes to heart, generosity, and community spirit, the Manawatū knows how to deliver.
Held at the Silks Lounge in association with Property Brokers and The Grassroots Trust Rescue Helicopter, the soldout event raised an incredible $165,847 - funds that will go directly toward keeping the life-saving service in the air
Guests were treated to a lively afternoon of fashion, racing, and fundraising, beginning with a stunning two-course buffet lunch
before the excitement of the Melbourne Cup race lit up the big screens. The day’s entertainment featured a spirited Fashion in the Field competition and a series of live auctions, with local businesses and individuals bidding generously to support a cause that touches lives across the region.
“The Grassroots Trust Rescue Helicopter is a critical service that responds to emergencies across our communities every day,” said Paul Roache, Property Brokers’ Regional Director for Manawatu, Whanganui and Taranaki “We’re incredibly proud to support an event that not only celebrates the Melbourne Cup in style but makes such a tangible difference to people in need.”
The funds raised will help ensure The Grassroots Trust
Rescue Helicopter continues its vital missions, providing rapid emergency response and medical care when every second counts Grassroots Trust Rescue Helicopter’s Head of Fundraising and Marketing, Sharni Weir, said the funds will have a significant impact. “With over 400 jobs a year, we’re incredibly busy in the rescue helicopter world. Every time you see the helicopter take off, that flight costs around $9,500 We’re humbled by the generosity shown by everyone who attended. Every dollar raised helps us deliver critical care, keep flying, and continue responding when people need us most. We couldn’t do it without the incredible support of our community and partners like Property Brokers.”
Event organisers thanked the sponsors, volunteers, and attendees whose energy and generosity made the day a success. “It was a memorable day filled with fun, laughter, and purpose,” said Paul. “Seeing the community come together for such an important cause is truly inspiring.”
About The Grassroots Trust Rescue Helicopter The Grassroots Trust Rescue Helicopter provides 24/7 emergency air ambulance and search and rescue services across the central North Island Each mission is made possible through community donations and fundraising efforts like the Melbourne Cup Long Lunch, ensuring this vital lifeline continues to save lives throughout the region
You are invited to join us for what is a Christmas highlight for many Manawatu residents – the annual All Saints Christmas Readings and Carols, based on the traditional Nine Lessons and Carols from Kings College Cambridge
With our brick church on the Square closed for earthquake strengthening, and thanks to the generosity of the Cathedral parish, our service has been held in the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit on Broadway Ave for the past few years The beauty of the Cathedral makes it the perfect setting for our timeless service –readings that tell the unfolding Christmas story interspersed with well-loved carols for the congregation, and a wide range of Christmas anthems from the large choir
From the opening solo of ‘Once in Royal David’s City’ and the choir’s candlelight procession, to the descant in the last verse of ‘O Come all ye Faithful’ and the final organ voluntary, this is an evening to delight and inspire The choir will sing a wide range of Christmas music including Richard Puanaki’s ‘Ka Waiata’, Mendelssohn’s Christmas motet ‘Frohlocket!’ (Rejoice!), English composer John Tavener’s ‘The Lamb’, and a charming new offering ‘The Little Road to Bethlehem’ by Michael Head As well as familiar carols, the congregation will sing the late Shirley Murray’s ‘Star Child, Earth Child’ with its refrain that speaks directly into the hopes and prayers of so many today – ‘this year, this year, let the day arrive when Christmas comes for everyone, everyone alive ’ We would love you to join us at 8pm on Sunday 21 December for this year’s service, and to stay on for a simple supper afterwards We suggest you come early to be sure of a seat
Jenny Boyack conducts the All Saints’ Choir in the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit at the Carol Service in 2024
PalmerstonNorthscoutnamed2025Fred
HollowsHumanityAwardsJuniorAmbassador
OllieClarke,age10, fromPalmerstonNorth, hasbeennamedthis year’sFredHollows HumanityAward’sJunior Ambassador,recognising hiseverydaykindness, leadership,andknackfor quietlymakinglifebetter forthosearoundhim.
Ollie,amemberofWestEnd ScoutGroupandastudentat LongburnSchool,foundout aboutthehonourduringasurprise presentationataScoutcampon Saturday29November.
TheFredHollowsHumanity Awardscelebrateyoungpeople aged9to11whoaremaking apositivedifferenceintheir communitiesandwhoembodythe valuesofcompassion,integrityand kindness,inspiredbylegendaryKiwi eyedoctorandhumanitarian,the lateProfessorFredHollows.
Anaturalleaderwithabigheart OlliewasnominatedbyhisScout GroupLeader,ChristineHalliday, whosaysheis“theheartofwhat theScoutLawstandsfor:doing what’sright,beingpositive,and havingrespect”.
Fromhelpingatfundraisersand
workingbeestosteppingupasa mentorfortheyoungestScoutsin theKeasection,Ollieisknownfor quietlygettingstuckin.Hepatiently teachespracticalskills–likehow tobuildandsitsafelyarounda campfire–andmakessureeveryone feelsincluded,evenifthatmeans lettingsomeoneelsewinagameor happilybeingtackledbyapileof excitedfive-year-olds.
AtLongburnSchool,Ollie alsoplaysabigpart indailyschoollife. Heisamember ofthestudent leadership team,helps runwhānau time,supports withschool lunches,and pitchesin toorganise special activitiesthat makeschool morefun.At lunchtimehemight beoutonthefieldasa sportsmonitor,checkingon theschoolanimals,orweedingthe schoolgardens.
DrAudreyAumua,ChiefExecutive ofTheFredHollowsFoundation NZ,saysthisyear’snominations showthereisnoshortageofyoung humanitariansacrossthecountry.
“Wereceivednominationsfrom allaroundNewZealandandwere soimpressedwiththecalibreof childrenwhowerenominated. It’sinspiringtoreadaboutthe manyyounghumanitariansacross Aotearoawhoareshowing compassion,kindness andagenuine commitmentto makingapositive difference.”
Heisaregularatschoolworking bees,addinghiseffortstolookafter theschool’sNatureReserveandis knownforspottinglittlejobsthat needdoing–andthendoingthem withoutbeingasked.
AsJunior Ambassador, Olliereceived acertificate andaspecial goodiebag. Thanksto charitypartner Specsavers,he willalsoallocate $5,000toaFred HollowsFoundation NZ Pacificprogrammeofhis choice–whetherthatishelping buymedicalequipment,supporting thegraduationofeyedoctorsand nurses,orprovidingglassesto peopleinFiji.
Ontopofthat,Olliewillreceive $1,000,thankstoCorporateTraveller andDonaldsonBrownNZ,toput
towardsaninitiativeinhisschool orcommunitythathelpsmakethe worldaroundhimbetter. Celebratingfinalistsfromacross thecountry Olliewasselectedfromdozensof nominationsnationwide.Nineother youngKiwiswerealsorecognised asFredHollowsHumanityAwards finalistsandreceivedcertificates andgoodiebags.Theyare:
•NoahHindman,StJoseph’s CatholicSchool,Morrinsville •OscarCakebread,StBenedict’s School,Wellington •HollyBuchanan,2ndWhangārei Girls’Brigade,Whangārei •EthanGaby,MosgielScoutGroup, Mosgiel
•MaifalaTuala,WestownSchool, NewPlymouth
•IsraelWaqairatu,RiverinaSchool, Auckland
•EasonShen,TeKuraoManunui, Tauranga
•AmeliaSeath-Boyte,Karapiro School,Cambridge
•MillaBurfield,LevinSchool,Levin TheHumanityAwardsarepart ofaglobalmovementrecognising thousandsofyoungpeopleinNew Zealand,Australia,andHongKong whoaredoingtheirbittohelp others–provingthatnoactof kindnessistoosmalltocelebrate.
Understandingthe NewPetRulesComing ThisDecember
AsmoreNewZealanders embracepetsaspartofthe family,itisnosurprisethe Governmenthasupdated theResidentialTenancies Acttobetterreflecthow peoplelivetoday.
From1Decemberthisyear, newpetruleswillcome intoeffectthatgivetenants aclearerpathwaytorequesta petwhilegivinglandlordsfairer toolstoprotecttheirproperties. Assomeonewhohasworkedin propertymanagementformany years,Iseethesechangesasa positiveshifttowardbalance, clarityandconfidenceforeveryone involved.
Underthenewrules,tenantswill stillneedwrittenapprovalbefore bringingapetintoarentalhome, butlandlordscannolongerissue blanketrefusalswithoutreasonable grounds.Thisisabigstepforward forresponsiblepetownerswho simplywantthechancetoshow thatawellmanagedpetcanfit comfortablywithinarentalproperty. Thegoalisnottoforcepetsinto unsuitablehomes,buttoensure eachrequestisconsideredfairly andwithgoodinformationonboth sides.
Oneofthebiggestchangesis theintroductionofthepetbond. Landlordswillbeabletorequesta petbondofuptotwoweeksrent, heldthroughTenancyServices inthesamewayasastandard
bond.Thisoffersanaddedlayerof protectionforownerswhilealso givingtenantsclarityaboutwhatis expected.
Tenantswillneedtocomplete aproperapprovalprocess,which includesprovidinginformation aboutthepetandwaitingfora writtenresponse.Ownerswillhave twentyonedaystoreply.Ifno responseisgiveninthattime,the requestisautomaticallyapproved underthenewlaw.Forlandlords, thishighlightstheimportance ofengagingwithyourproperty managerandstayingontopof communication.Wearehereto handlethoserequestspromptlyand makesuretherightdecisionismade withfullcontext.
Reasonablegroundstodecline maystillapply.Thesemightinclude unsuitablefencing,bodycorporate restrictionsorhealthandsafety concerns.Conditionscanalsobe added,suchascarpetcleaningat theendofthetenancyorlimitson thetypeornumberofpets.
AtWatsonIntegrity,ourfocusis onmakingthistransitioneasyfor bothlandlordsandtenants.We’ve createdclearguidesforeachgroup, availableonourwebsiteunder Resources,andourteamisfully preppedtosupportyoueverystep oftheway.Theaimissimple:happy tenants,wellprotectedhomesand asmootherprocessforeveryone. Ifyouhavequestions,reachout tousanytime.We’reheretohelp younavigatethenewruleswith confidence.
RisingManawatūTalentEmmaCarter ReleasesHauntingDebutAlbumBLUE
Seventeen-year-oldsingersongwriterEmmaCarteris quicklyemergingasoneof theManawatū’smostintriguing newmusicalvoices.Originally fromAuckland,Emmahasspent allherhigh-schoolyearsinthe region—yearsthatshapednot onlyheridentity,butthesound thatnowdefinesherdebutalbum, BLUE.
Musichasbeenwoventhrough Emma’slifefromanearlyage.
Shebeganlearningpianoat seven,butitwasn’tuntilhigh school—whichsheleftlastyear tofocusfullyonmusic—thather passionintensified.Alongside herexpressivevocals,sheplays piano,guitar,bass,drums,ukulele, baritoneukulele,Frenchhorn,and “more,”shesayswithalaugh. Thatdriveforindependence pulsesthroughBLUE,atwelvetrackprojectshespentayearand ahalfcraftingalmostentirelyin herbedroom.“Imadeallofthe music,lyrics,vocals—everything —withjustme,mydigitalpiano
andbaritoneuke,”sheexplains.In October,shebroughttheproject toTheStomachrecordingstudio inPalmerstonNorth,whereshe recordedfinalvocalsandco-mixed thealbumwithproducerSam Sheppard.
ThetitleBLUEreflectsthe emotionallandscapeEmma explores:mentalhealthstruggles, trauma,darkthoughts—butalso resilience.“There’salotofhope inmyalbum,”shesays.“Myhope isthatotherscanhearthismusic andfeelcomforted,understood, andnotalone.”
Genre-wise,evenEmmaisn’t entirelysurewhereshefits.Hercoproducercallsit“spookyalternative pop,”adescriptionsheembraces. Listenershavecomparedhersound toBillieEilish,Twenty-OnePilots, FINNEAS,OliviaRodrigo,andLizzy McAlpine—impressivecompany foranindependentteenartistwith majorambitions.“Mydreamistobe thenextbigmusicartist,”shesays. BLUEisavailablenowonallmajor streamingplatforms,withCDs plannedforfuturerelease.Fanscan followEmmaCarteronInstagram andTikTokat@emma_music_x.
ByShonaLingham
Teensworktosolve real-worldagribusiness challenges
EightyYear10studentsfromeightsecondary schoolscametoMasseyUniversitylastweekona missiontosolveanagri-sciencechallengeinaday.
EightyYear10studentsfrom eightsecondaryschoolscame toMasseyUniversitylastweek onamissiontosolveanagri-science challengeinaday.
Thestudentscamefrom secondaryschoolsspanning HorowhenuatoWanganuito attendtheMPIMissionSustainable InnovationChallengeatMassey
Astheweathergetswarmer it’stimetostockupon somegoodbeachreads. Herearesomeofthemostpopular titlesatthelibraryfrom2025.In adultfiction,LeeChildretains hisnumberonespot,withInToo Deep.Followingclosebehindis JojoMoyeswithWeAllLiveHere andRebeccaYarroswithOnyx Storm.AfteracouplemoreLee Childs,it’sgreattoseeAotearoa’s ownBookshopDetectivestake thenexttwospotswiththeirtwo cosymysteriesDeadGirlGone andTeaandCakeandDeath.In non-fiction,JacindaArdern’sA DifferentKindofPowertakesthe topspot,followedbyAlisonMau’s NoWordsForThis.Locallegend CynricTemple-Campisstilldoing greatwithTheFinalDiagnosis. TimotiTeMoke’sTheUnlikely Doctorisalsoprovingpopular.In Children’sbooks,DogMan,Wimpy Kid,Baby-Sitter’sClubandDavid Walliamsallfeatureprominently, asyoumightexpect. TheLibrary’sDecember/ Januaryopenhoursareupon ourwebsite.Overtheholiday period,rememberyoucanaccess thousandsofbooks,audiobooks, magazines,andmoviesonlineany timeyoulike,withgreatlibrary appssuchasLibby,BorrowBox, Kanopy,Beamafilm,StoryBox Library,ComicsPlus,andHoopla. Forcraftinginspirationthere’s CreativeBug.There’sMango
processors.Thefourchallengesall involvedagriculture,foodorforestry production. Itwasaconceptualchallenge,with someswiftpaperprototypingand webpresentationsbeingassembled duringthemorning.Thestudents hadtoworkouthowtomaketheir productusingtechnologyenablers, andclearlyidentifythevalueto prospectivecustomers.Theday closedwithteamspresentingtheir productideastothegroup.
RiddetInstituteSeniorFood TechnologistAgnesHutchingsof MasseyUniversitywasoneofthe day’sexpertmentors,workingwith about17ofthestudentswhohad beensplitintosmallteams.
“Wearedoingproduct developmentandbrainstorming howwecanturnthewasteleftfrom vegetablegrowersorprocessors intoaddedvalueproductsthat consumerscanbuy,”shesaid.
Thedaywassponsoredbythe MinistryforPrimaryIndustriesand
deliveredbytheYoungEnterprise Trust.
TheYoungEnterpriseTrust’sPaul NewsomsaidthegoaloftheTrust wastohelpyoungpeoplediscover theirpotential,andtheMission SustainableInnovationChallenge wasaboutgettingstudentsinvolved inenterprise.
TheTrustholdsthedaysevery yearindifferentlocationsaround thecountry.Ithadbeenaboutseven yearssincePalmerstonNorthhadits turn.
HesaidtheYear10agegroupis whenstudentsarestartingtomake decisionsaboutfuturesubjectsand wheretheywanttohead.
“Thisprogrammeisabout connectingtheneedsofindustry towhatthestudentsarelearningat schoolsandmakingitrelevant.
“Ifyouaregoingtosolverealworldproblems,thenyouneed entrepreneurialskills,andmindsets, andthecapabilitytobeinnovative.”
UniversitylastTuesday(18 November),fillingaWoolBuilding lecturetheatre.
Thechallengeinvolvedsolving aspecificfoodandfibresector problembydevelopingan innovativenewproducttoaddress it,describingthemarketforthe product,andhowitwillbeof valuetocustomers,growersor
LanguagesandLOTE4Kids.Find anewhobbyonClubSandwich,a sitethatlistsclubsinPalmerston North.Therearesomanythings toreadanddo–justgotothe DigitalResourcespageonwww. citylibrary.pncc.govt.nz. CelebrateDutchLanguage Weekendwithusonthe6-7thof December!OnSaturday6th,come andhearDutchchildren’sstories (readinEnglish)andcolourin somepopularDutchcharacters. OnSunday7ththere’llbea movie(inEnglish)withaDutch connection.Duringtheweekend, haveagoatthetreasurehuntin theChildren’sArea.Therewillalso bepicturestocolourandaDutch languagedisplay.
SummerReadingison!Ifyou haven’tregisteredyourchild yet,youcanstilldosouptill Christmas,viatheBeanstackapp. Ifyouhaven’tusedBeanstack before,popintoanylibrary locationandthey’llhelpyou out.Summerreadingisfor childrenaged4-10,andtheiRead programmeisforages11-13.There arealsoactivitieshappening throughDecemberandinto January,andeveryoneiswelcome toattend,whetheryou’resigned uptoSummerReadingornot.
OurwonderfulDigi-Coachis withusatCentralLibraryuntil mid-December,soifyouhaveany techiequestions,popinsoon! Thisserviceisinpartnershipwith
MinistryofSocialDevelopment andDigitalInclusionAlliance Aotearoa.Aswellashelping peoplewithqueriesabout smartphones,tablets,andapps, Williamhasbeendoingcoolstuff withVirtualRealitytoo.Justlook forthebrightbluevestandDigiCoachflagbetween11amand3pm, TuesdaytoSaturday.
WhiletheCentralLibraryis closedovertheNewYear,asmall changewilloccurintheFiction area.Yearsago,anInternational Fictionsectionwascreated,to helppromotebookstranslated fromlanguagesotherthanEnglish.
Intheyearssince,translated workshaveboomed,withbooks likeAManCalledOvebyFredrik Backmanbeingmadeintoan English-languagemovie,and morerecently,thepopularityof magicalcosycatcafébooksfrom JapanandKorea.International Fictionisnowsoubiquitousthat itdoesn’tneeditsownsection, andthebookswillmostlybe shelvedinGeneralFiction,orin anotherLivingRoomlikeCrimeor Romance,ifthatsuitsbetter.We loveseeinghowpublishingtrends changeovertime!
Manfeild
Going bananas for New Zealand babies
A Riddet Institute PhD student is bringing her science expertise to a Northland banana grower to help them carve out a niche baby food product.
PhD candidate Simone Frame (Ngāti Maniapoto) aims to help far north grower Austenz Ltd by providing scientific data. Austenz Ltd grow a wide variety of banana cultivars and is owned by Toni-Nere Austen (Te Rawawa, Ngati Kahu, Ngati Hine).
Simone is supported in her studies by the Riddet Institute, a government Centre of Research Excellence hosted by Massey University in Palmerston North that focuses on advanced food research.
Simone’s work will investigate how the infant gut responds to specific prebiotic structures in land-grown bananas. Currently only ommercial bananas available are imported from overseas, and the market is dominated by one variety, cavendish.
Simone s she is eful her PhD project gives her the
agency to help Māori achieve their aspirations
“I want to be able to do the sort of science that can make a real-world difference,” she says.
Simone completed her master’s studies last year analysing the nutrient composition of bananas grown in Northland and simulating how these nutrients would be fermented in the infant gut This time she is researching the starch profiles of bananas grown at different times of the year
The theory is that New Zealand’s cooler climate will produce distinct starch profiles and be different to bananas grown in tropical zones in the world
The study is one of several recent Riddet Institute studies looking at the role of infant gut health in promoting better health outcomes later in life
One of Simone’s supervisors is the Bioeconomy Science Institute’s Dr Jane Mullaney (Ngāti Porou/Ngāti Raukawa).
Dr Mullaney has been working alongside Austenz since 2019, when researchers found that New Zealand had pockets of suitable climates for growing sub-tropical plants
Dr Mullaney says bananas have no set harvest time and will keep growing and fruiting as long as temperatures are above 14 degrees Celsius.
“We think New Zealand bananas have characteristics that make them superior to those grown overseas to make them more nutritious, based on our climate and their slower growing.”
PhD candidate Simone Frame analysing banana samples in a laboratory flow cabinet
From left, Northland banana grower
Toni-Nere Austen, Dr Jane Mullaney and Simone Frame present banana research
WatsonIntegrity SpreadsChristmas CheerThroughthe TreeofHope
Christmasmeansdifferent thingstodifferentpeople, butformanylocalfamilies itisatimeofpressure, worryandtryingtostretch alreadytightbudgets.
That’swhyWatsonIntegrity hasproudlyjoinedButterfly CompassionCommunity’s networkofTreeofHopedrop-off pointsfortheveryfirstyear.It’s asimpleideawithabigimpact: localsdonatinggiftssochildren andfamilieswhomightotherwise missoutcanexperiencealittle Christmasmagic.
Sittinginthereceptionareaat 267BroadwayAvenue,theTree ofHopeinvitesanyoneinthe communitytodropoffanew unwrappedgift.Oncedonated, theWatsonteamwrapseach
presentanddeliversittoButterfly CompassionCommunity(BCC), aPalmerstonNorthcharitythat worksquietlyandtirelesslybehind thescenestosupportthosefacing genuinehardship.
BCCisa100percentvolunteerrunorganisationthathasgrown intoalifelineforpeopleinneed acrosstheregion.Theirsupport goeswellbeyondChristmas. Throughouttheyeartheyprovide freecarepackagesforelderly hospitalpatients,womenin crisis,familiesfacingunexpected hardship,parentswithnewborns,
andneurodiversechildrenwho needsensoryitems.Everythingis offeredfreelyandwithdignity. Giftsofanysizearewelcomed, frombabytoysthroughtoitems suitableforteens.Whetheritis somethingsmallandcheerfulora largersurpriseunderthetree,every donationhelpscreateabrighter Christmasforalocalchild. Thosewishingtocontributecan dropanew,unwrappedgiftto WatsonIntegrity,267Broadway Avenue,PalmerstonNorth,before 18thDecember.
ExperiencehistoryinmotionasWW1memorial steamlocomotive Ab608“Passchendaele” and diesel-electriclocomotive Da1410 haulalltrains throughouttheweekend!
Withnumerousservicesoperatingthroughouttheweekend,it’san idealopportunitytoenjoyajourneythatcapturesthespiritofavintage railwayexperience.Withservicesonoffersuchas:
- TheKaiIwiTrekker (TaupoQuay-KaiIwi&return)
- TheRuatangataWanderer (TaupoQuay-Ruatangata&return)
- VintageSteam&Cuisine (TaupoQuay-Marton&return)
- TheFeildingFlyer (TaupoQuay-Feilding&return)
Justwho isRazors gang?
ByHamishMckay
IflosingtoEnglandwasn’t badenough,howaboutthe startlingadmissionfrom RazorRobertsonthathe leavestheactualcoachingof theAllBlackstohisassistant ScottHansen.
Nowthestatementaloneis scaryenough.Butwhenyou addinhardlyasoulknows whoHansenis,it’sthenyoubeginto wonderwhoonearthisrunningthe ABship!?
Thisrevelationquicklyexplains whyanexperiencedcoachlikeLeon MacDonaldleftthenewrazorregime barelyfiveminutesafteritstarted. AndwhileJasonHolland,likeall goodOrouamenduginforthelong
haul,it’snosurprisehe’sexiting stageleft.
Hollandwasoriginallyappointed asaselector,butwasrelievedof thosedutiesearlyinthepiece. Butaftertheproverbialhitthefan againstArgentinaandSouthAfrica thisyearhewaswiselyreinstatedto theroundtable.
OneofRazorsbiggestchallenges wastodeliverresultsthatmatched hiselevatorpitch.Robertsonmade
itveryclearhewasthemanforthe jobandtherewerenootheroptions. Hissillylittle‘Bula,I’mofftocoach Fijimoment’teasewasashowpony inhiselement.Therealityofbeing atrulyinternationalstandardtest CoachhashitRazorintheheadlike arunawaysurfboard.Nowheseems dazedandhardtofollow.Andwhat’s happenedtothebreakdancing?It’s hardtoseehimgettingthechop. Regardlessit’sgoingtobealong
haulthroughtothe2027RWC. Inconclusion,justthisweekat PNBHSwereleasedoursecond oldboys‘UndertheGrandstand’ podcastfeaturingamanofgreat mana,legendaryfrontrowforward BruceHemara.Comparedtothe gobbledygookwegetfromrugbys currentAllBlackcoachinghierarchy Bruiserislikeanoldschoolbreathof freshair.Humble,articulate,genuine. Thankgoodness.
ACalltoPreserveHistory
NewZealandmilitaryhistorianGlynHarper, ProfessorEmeritusatMasseyUniversityand authorofmorethan30acclaimedbooks,is workingonarevisededitionofhislandmark workMassacreatPasschendaele:TheNew ZealandStory.
Thisneweditionwill commemoratethe110th anniversaryofthebattle in2027andaimstobringfresh insightsintooneofthedarkest daysinournation’shistory.
Passchendaele,12October1917, remainsNewZealand’sworst-ever disasterofanykind.Injustone morning,846menwerekilled, withanother140dyingofwounds inthefollowingweek.Harper’s revisededitionwillincludearound 30photographs,adetailedtable ofthosewhofellinBelgium duringOctober1917,and—most importantly—letterswrittenby soldierstotheirfamiliesaboutthis harrowingtime.
Tomakethiseditiontrulyspecial, Harperandhisteamareappealing tothepublicforhelp.Ifyouhave originallettersfromsoldierswho foughtatPasschendaele,orhighresolutionphotographsconnected tothebattle,yourcontribution couldhelppreservethesevoices forfuturegenerations.These personalaccountswilladddepth andhumanitytothehistorical record.
Thebookwillbepublishedby HarperCollinsandavailableinall majorbookstoresinthelatterhalf of2027.Readerswhowishtoassist canemailglynharper@inspire.net. nz.Everyletterandphotoshared willhelpensurethatthesacrifices andstoriesofthosewhoservedare neverforgotten.
TeManawawarmlywelcomes BrentHarris,oneof Australasia’smostacclaimed contemporaryartists,backtohis hometownPalmerstonNorthfor hisdeeplypersonalexhibition, HomeandBackAgain.Openingon 6December2025,thisexhibition offersajourneythroughHarris’s practice,tracingtheformative experiencesofhisyouththat shapedhislifeandart.
HarrisgrewupinPapaioea (PalmerstonNorth)duringthe 1960sand70s,atimeofquiet provincialrhythmsandprofound personalchallenges.Atjust22 yearsold,hemadeacourageous decision:toseparatefromhis wife,comeoutasgay,andleave hishometowninsearchofanew life.Thatdeparturemarkedthe beginningofanacclaimedand iconicartisticcareerthatwouldsee Harrisbecomealeadingfigurein Australianart,celebratedforthe psychologicaldepthofhishaunting imagery.
ForHarris,returningto PalmerstonNorthismorethan
HomeandBackAgain OpensatTeManawa
06December2025–19June2026
TeManawaMuseumofArt,ScienceandHeritage
ahomecoming.“Ihavelivedin Australiasince1981,travellingto Melbourneforartschoolbecause itofferedasafedistancefrommy past.Thatdiminishedwiththe deathofmyfatherin2016,when Idecidedtoreconsiderhowmy childhoodinPalmerstonNorth impactedmypractice.Oneofmy mostpositivememoriesasaboy wasclimbingupontotheroofof ourhouseinWestEndonaclear dayafterrecentsnow.There,I couldseeMtTaranakiandRuapehu, offeringmeasenseofcalm.My peakpaintingsareoneofthe strongestconnectionsIhavewith thelandscapeofAotearoa.”
HomeandBackAgainbrings Harris’sdistinctivepaintingsand printsintoconversationwithworks fromTeManawa’sowncollection, artistsandinfluencesthatnurtured hisearlyambitions.Theexhibition titleplaysgentlyonthephrase “tohellandbackagain,”evoking Harris’sjourneythroughhardship andself-discovery.Hisworks, populatedbypeculiarcharacters, ghostlyshadows,andsnow-capped
mountains,speaktothetension betweenbeautyanddiscomfort, offeringviewersameditationon resilienceandthepowerofartto instigatechange.SeniorManager Curatorial&CollectionsSianvan Dykreflectsonhercurationofthis exhibition.
“Brent’sworkissocompelling andtechnicallyproficient—his paintingsandprintsaresucha pleasuretoencounter.Curating HomeandBackAgainhasbeen anopportunitytohonourhis practiceinthecontextofhis personaljourney,andthequiet powerofTeIkaaMaui,theNorth Islandlandscape.Foldinginactual artworksfromTeManawa’sArt collectionthatshapedhimasa youngmanhere,intheManawatū, makesthisexhibitionevenmore specialforourcommunity.”
NowbasedinMelbourne,Harris isregardedasoneofAustralia’s mostsignificantartists,withworks heldinmajorpubliccollections acrossAustralasia.Hisreturn toPalmerstonNorthisbotha homecomingandaninvitation:to
reflectonthecourageittakesto leave,andthegraceofreturningto sharehiscraft,comingfullcircleon thisjourney.
Thisexhibitionisproudly supportedbyCreativeNewZealand.
BrentHarris,Transfiguration3,2023, Oilonlinen.Courtesyontheartistand RobertHealdGallery,Wellington.
BrentHarris;photo:SaulSteed.
UCOLManawatūstudentsHolleyTabener,LewisAstwood,Mary CromptonandBeaumontBroughton-Dowhavecelebratedtheir hardworkwithaonce-in-a-lifetimeexperience-racingtheir projectcarsintheD.M.RMetalRecyclersRampRaceatthe RobertsonPrestigeInternationalSpeedway.
AspartoftheNewZealand CertificateinCollisionRepair andAutomotiveRefinishing programme,studentsbuildup sevenUCOLcarsforthedemolition derby,withfourstudentswinning therewardofracingoneofthecars attheevent.
ĀkongaHolleyTabener,who wasawardedasaracerforher 100percentclassattendance, saystakingpartintheracewas exhilarating.
“Althoughgettingair whilegoing overthe rampwas aweird experience, whichshowed withthe screamingI wasdoing.I lovedbeingable todrivethecar aroundthetrack toshowallthework myclassmatesandI haddonetomakeitlook amazing.”
patiencewiththeprojectandher studythroughouttheyear.
“Icouldn’thaveaskedforbetter lecturers.They’resopatientand knowledgeable,whichshowed throughwiththehighstandardof thecarswebroughtbacktolife.”
UCOLCollisionRepairand AutomotiveRefinishingLecturer, AshMcKenzie,saysaswellas beingathrillingexperienceforthe studentswhoracethecars,the projecthelpslearnersinanumber ofways.
Shesaysshecan’tthankher lecturersenoughfortheirhelpand
“Workingonthecars enablesthemtocover alltheirlearning outcomes.Italso meanstheyget thatessential hands-on experience wherethey canhoneinon theirrepairand refinishingskills fromthestartofa projectthroughto completion.”
“Wefindtheproject’s anamazingwaytokeep studentsmotivatedwhilestudying astheyenjoyseeingtheirwork
Citywellplacedleading intoabetter2026.
Kiaora,
Peopleeitherloveorhatetotalkabout theeconomy,butourlatestCityeconomic updateshowssomeencouragingsignsaswe headintothenewyear.Whilewe’renavigating manyofthesamechallengesastherestofthe country,PalmerstonNorth’sexportmarkets remainstrong,andkeysectorslikehealthcare, distributionandDefencecontinuetoprovide stability.Non-residentialconstructionisalsoa standoutperformer—up82.3%onlastyear— andjobsinthecityhavegrown1.3%compared withanationaldecline.Withinflationand interestratesexpectedtoease,we’rehopeful householdsandbusinesseswillsoonfeelalittle morebreathingroom.
Yournewcouncilisnowsworninandwe’ve beenbackintotheswingofCouncilmeetings again.Ialsowantedtothankthoseofyou whohavegivenfeedbackinourspeedlimit consultationaroundschools,andalsoto everyonewhocamealongtotherecentRing Roadsessions.Thisprojectwillplayamajor roleinshapinghowwemovearoundourcity inthefuture,andyourfeedbackhelpsustest assumptions,understandlocalimpactsand refinethepreferredroute.Theprojectteamis nowworkingthrougheverythingyoushared, andwe’llprovideanotherupdateinearly2026.
SummerinPalmyisalreadyofftoagreat start,withsomegreatweatherandthefestive spiritflowingthroughourcityevents.NewYear’s andWaitangiDayarejustaroundthecorner, withFestivalofCulturesandEsplanadeDay confirmedforearly2026.OurSummerReading Programmeatthelibraryisalsowellunderway —welldonetoallthechildrentakingpart.I’m lookingforwardtocelebratingwithyouinlate January.
Afewpracticalremindersfortheseason:as withlastyear,there’snofreekerbsideChristmas treecollection,butyoucandroprealtreesat
cometolife,andwiththeprizeof beingabletoshowcaseandrace theircarsatanamazinglocalevent isextremelyrewarding.It’stheicing onthecake.”
MaryCromptonsaysknowing thecarsweregoingtobeshown infrontofabigcrowdwasareal highlightoftheproject.
“Itmadepreparingthecarsso motivating,andthenwhenIwas drawnasoneoftheracers,Iwas soexcited.Theadrenalineofracing wasamazing,andI’dlovetodoit again,”shesays.
Althoughspeedwayracingwas afirst-timeexperienceforhis teammates,LewisAstwoodsayshe feltrightathome.
“Iracesuperstocksusually,so drivingtheUCOLcarwasabreeze. Itwasloadsoffun,especiallywhen Iputmymateupagainstthewall. Itwastheperfectwaytocelebrate theworkwedidthroughoutthe studyyear.”
theAwapuniResourceRecoveryCentrefreeof chargefromBoxingDaythroughtotheendof January.Andifyou’re65orolder,now’sagreat timetoapplyforyour2026SuperGoldparking permit.Youcanapplyanytime,butgettingit sortedbeforeChristmashelpsyouavoidthe Januaryrush.The$10annualpermitgives youfreeparkinginanymeteredspacefrom 9am–3pm,MondaytoFriday.Applicationsopen 1DecemberatourCustomerServiceCentreorat GreyPower—fulldetailsareonourwebsite.
Ifyou’replanningoutyoursummer adventures,keepaneyeoutforthenewPalmy Proudmagazine,availablefromearlyDecember. It’spackedwithideasforwhattosee,doand eataroundthecity—fromwalksandswimming spotstoop-shopfindsandacloserlookat thehoteldevelopmentintheoldPostOffice building.Andifyou’restillhuntingforgifts,the PalmerstonNorthisitehasabrand-newrangeof Palmybrandedgearthatmakesperfectpresents forfriendsandwhānaunearorfar.
Tostayconnectedoverthebreak,make sureyou’resubscribedtoPalmyMatters, ourfortnightlyemailnewsletter.It’squickly becomingtheeasiestwaytofollowwhat’s happeninginthecity—frominfrastructure updatesandconsultationstoCouncildecisions, eventsandhelpfulreminders.Thousands alreadyuseitastheirgo-tosourceforstayingin theknow,andyoucansignuponourwebsite.
ThisismylastcolumnuntilFebruary,soIwish youallasafe,sunnyandrelaxingholidayseason. Enjoytimewithyourwhānauandfriends—and remember,we’rehereifyouneedanythingover summer. GrantSmithJP MayorofPalmerstonNorthCity
Afterhisracewascutshort, BeaumontBroughton-Dowsayshe can’twaittocomebacknextyear andhaveanothergo.
“Eventhoughmycarconkedout earlyintheraceafterIgotganged uponbyotherdrivers,it’sinspired metotakeonthechallengeagain nextyearandgetmyownback.My awesomelecturerAshisenabling metobuildupacaragainsoIcan haveanothergo.”
Withstudentsafetyapriority, McKenziesaysracingattheeventis madepossiblethankstothelongstandingrelationshipUCOLhashad withtheeventorganiserssincethe projectstarted16yearsago.
“Thelocalspeedwayteamarea hugesupportandintraculepartof theproject.Ontopoftheroll-cages webuiltthatprovidethehighest levelofsafety,speedwaymanager, BryanPuklowski,organisesallthe otheressentialsafetygearforour students.”
Post-race photo; Holley Tabener, Lewis Astwood, Mary Crompton with their derby cars
PalmerstonNorth ComesTogether foraChristmas Celebration!
ThisChristmasEve, PalmerstonNorthwillshine withfestivecheeras New LifeChurch bringsback itsmuch-lovedcommunity celebration!
Afterabusyyear,whatbetter waytopauseandembracethe seasonthanwithaneveningof music,joy,andtogetherness?
Joinuson Wednesday,24th December atthebeautiful Regent onBroadway foranightofcarols andfunthatthewholefamilywill enjoy. Doorsopenat6:15PM,andthe celebrationbeginsat 7:00PM.Bestof all,thiseventiscompletelyfree—agift tothecommunitytosharethehope andjoyofChristmas” Expectanatmospherefilledwith warmthandfestivemelodiesaswe gatherasacitytocelebratewhat makesthistimeofyearsospecial.
Whetheryou’recomingwithfamily, friends,orsimplylookingforaplace toconnect,thiseveningpromises somethingforeveryone.
NewLifeChurchispassionateabout creatingopportunitiesforpeopleto cometogether,andthiseventisa chancetodojustthat.It’smorethana concert—it’sacelebrationofhope,joy, andunity.
Spreadtheword,inviteyourloved ones,andlet’smakethisChristmas Eveunforgettable.Together,wecan filltheRegentonBroadwaywith music,laughter,andthetruemeaning oftheseason.
EVENTDETAILS: RegentonBroadway, PalmerstonNorth Wednesday,24thDecember Doorsopen6:15PM Celebrationstarts7:00PM Freeentryforeveryone Let’scometogetherasacommunity andcelebrateChristmasinPalmy!
NZME,togetherwithSteamInc,isgivingourreadersthe chancetowinoneoffourdoublepassesontheFeildingFlyer excursionat WhanganuiVintageWeekend–Sunday18thJanuary2026
Toenter,simplyemailshona.lingham@nzme.co.nzusingthesubjectline “WhanganuiVintageGiveaway”,orcompletetheentryslipbelow anddropitintoNZME,619MainStreet,PalmerstonNorth. Enjoyawonderfulexperienceofheritage, trains, andnostalgia–onus!
Name:.........................................................................................................
Renaissance Singers concert
TheRenaissanceSingersChristmasconcerthasa greatvarietyofcarolsfortheaudiencetoenjoy, withtheopportunitytosingalongwithperennial favourites.OnceagainRoyTankersley,organ, andShirleyXu,piano,providetheoccasional accompanimentunderthedirectionofMusic Director,ChristineArcher-Lockwood.
Therealfeaturethisyear, however,willbethe opportunitytohearseveral youngchoristersastheysingpieces thathighlightindividualsingers, singingsoloandinconcertwith eachother.Whanganuibred,Joseph Burgstaller,hasrecentlyimpressed asthejuniorinthetenorranks,while thebasseshavebeenjoinedby CameronBhashkar,currentlyMusic DirectorattheCathedraloftheHoly Spirit.Cameroncomesfromafamily ofmusiciansandcanplayanumber ofdifferentinstruments,including theorgan,andiscurrentlydirecting anewchoirintheCathedralof theHolySpirit.Cameronisalso
SoloistsBrionyMilne,BronteHodgetts,CameronBhashkar,DanHodgetts, NinaCameronwithMusicalDirector,ChristineArcher-Lockwood.
acomposerandtheCarolsfor Christmasconcertwillfeatureoneof hispieces.
LilyTavendale,NinaCameronand BrionyMilne,threeaccomplished youngchoristers,willdelightthe audienceastheyreadilypitch theiryoungsopranovoicesto astronomicalheights.Inthe13th century,StThomasAquinaswrote ahymnaskingChristtostrengthen believers.Sevencenturieslater, LatviancomposerĒriksEšenvalds putittomusic.Twooftheyoung sopranossoarabovethechoir’s intricateharmonies.Alto,Bronté Hodgetts,hasrecentlybeeninvited, andhasjoined,VoicesNewZealand,
NewZealand’spremierechoir. Havingalreadysungasasoloistfor theRenaissanceSingers,Brontéwill onceagainshowhowreadilyshecan projecthervoicelikeaprofessional. DanielHodgettswillalsobeshowing offhisbassbaritone,having finetunedsingingwiththevery successfulNewZealandYouthChoir. Canadian,GerdaBlok-Wilson recentlypennedLullay,MyLiking builtarounda15thcenturylullaby, requiringthechoirtosinggently oldfashionedphrasesthatsound kindandloving.Thechoiralso managessomestrangeoldMiddle EnglishwordssingingJamieHall’s AsIlayuponanight.BobChilcott’s
SussexCarolandAlanBullard’s GlorytotheChristChildprovide up-beattempo,whileLauridsen’s Omagnummysteriumwillsatisfy ardentRenaissanceSingersfanswho expectthewonderfullytightblendof voicesthatarethechoir’shallmark. And,onceagain,Christinewill invitetheaudiencetojoininthe chorusesandtosingthemelody linesofthemorepopularand familiarcarolswiththechoir providingtheharmonies.The consequenceisoneverylargechoir withaudiencemembersbecoming honourableRenaissanceSingersasa Christmaspresent.
StandaloneWaterModel GetsDIAApproval
ManawatūDistrictCouncil(MDC)hasreceivedformalapprovalfromthe DepartmentofInternalAffairs(DIA)foritsproposedstandalone,in-house modelfordeliveringdrinkingwater,wastewater,andstormwaterservices undertheLocalWaterDoneWellframework.
LEFTTORIGHT:HamishWaughGMInfrastructure,AnastasiaBonifaceMDCEnvironmentalOfficer, MayorMichaelFord,WendyThompsonInfrastructurePlanningandComplianceManager,WiremuGreening UtilitiesManageratMDC’snewestwatertreatmentplantonRootsStreetWest.
Thisdecisionrepresentsasignificant endorsementofMDC’sapproach, particularlyasmanycouncilsacrossthe countryhavebeenexpectedtopursuemulticouncildeliverymodels.ManawatūDistrict’s proposal,backedbystrongcommunitysupport, demonstratedthatalocallyled,independent modelisbothfinanciallyandoperationally sustainableforthedistrict.
MayorMichaelFordsaysreceivingDIA approvalisalandmarkmomentforthedistrict.
“Thisisamassiveachievementforour communityandourCouncilteam,”Mayor Fordsaid.“Weputforwardamodelthatwas differentfromthenorm,becauseitwastheright choiceforManawatūDistrict.TheDepartment’s approvalgivesusaclearvoteofconfidencethat ourfinancialmodelling,governancestructure, andlong-termplanningarerobustandcredible.”
Morethan500submissionsweremade duringMDC’sconsultationearlierthisyear, withanoverwhelmingmajoritysupportingthe standalonemodelandencouragingCouncilto “keepdoingwhatyou’redoing.”Thisstrong publicmandateformedacorepartofthe Council’sproposaltotheDIA.
TheDIAhadtheauthoritytorejectany proposeddeliveryplanthatdidnotdemonstrate affordability,competency,riskmanagementor compliancewithNewZealand’sstrengthened waterqualityandinfrastructureregulations. AcceptanceofMDC’splanconfirmsthatthe Councilhasmetallrequiredstandards.
MayorFordsaystheoutcomeisawinforboth localdecision-makingandlocalratepayers.
“Ourcommunitytoldusloudandclearthey valueretaininglocalcontroloverhowwater servicesaredelivered.DIA’sapprovalrecognises thatourlocalmodelisnotonlyviablebutis strong,resilient,andfinanciallyresponsible.”
Withapprovalnowreceived,Manawatū DistrictCouncilwillmoveforwardwith implementingthein-housestandalonebusiness unitaheadofthenationaltransitiontotheLocal WaterDoneWellframework.
FocusonManawatū
DECEMBEREDITION
SupportArohanuiHospice throughtheTreeof RemembrancethisChristmas FarmersstoresacrossAotearoa havelaunchedtheirannualTree ofRemembrancecampaign, givingpeopleaheartfeltway torememberlovedoneswhile
supportingtheirlocalhospice service.
Thisyearmarksthetwelfthyear ofthenationwidepartnership betweenFarmersandhospices, duringwhichmorethan$9million hasbeendonatednationallytohelp keephospicecarefreeforthose whoneedit.
Until ChristmasEve,customers cansupportArohanuiHospice bydonatingat FarmersLevin, FarmersThePlazaPalmerston North,andPalmerstonNorth Homewarestore,orbypurchasing the limited-edition2025Hospice Bauble in-storeoronline.Each baublecosts $15.99,andthanksto
Farmers’generosity, 100%ofthe purchasepricestaysinourregion, directlysupportinghospicecare intheHorowhenua,Manawatū, andTararuadistricts.Farmers alsopasseson100%ofallTreeof Remembrancedonations.
Thisyear’sbaubledesign featuressprigsofholly,asymbol ofprotection,goodfortune,and resilience.
“Inourregion,everydollarraised stayslocalandhelpsusprovide essentialend-of-lifecaretofamilies whoneedus,”says Michelle Connor,DirectoroftheArohanui HospiceFoundation. “TheTreeof Remembranceisabeautifulway tohonoursomeonespecialwhile supportinghospiceservicesthat touchsomanylives.”
From 1December,Arohanui HospicewillalsohostaTreeof Remembrancestandin ThePlaza, justoutsideFarmers.Visitors arewelcometostopby,makea donation,andwriteamessagein memoryofsomeonetheylove.
ArohanuiHospiceiscurrently seeking volunteers tohelpatthe PlazastandthroughoutDecember. Anyoneinterestedcansignupor learnmoreat arohanuihospice.org. nz.
Withlimitednumbersofbaubles available—andahistoryofselling out—localsareencouragedtoget theirsearlyandsupporthospice carethisChristmas.
e
FocusonManawatū I
t’shardtobelievewe’renearlyat theendofanotheryearandthe holidayseasonisjustaroundthe corner.Themonthshaveflownby, andasIwritemyfinalcolumnfor 2025,Iamextremelygratefulforthe privilegeofrepresentingthemighty Rangitīkeielectorateforanother year.
Arealhighlightformethisyear–andforruralNewZealand–camein SeptemberwhenParliamentpassed legislationtostoplarge-scalefarmto-forestryconversionsonhighqualityfarmland.Ourgovernment backsourfarmers,andthislawisa majorsteptowardprotectingfood security,safeguardingourmost productiveland,andsupportingthe ruralcommunitiesthatkeepNew Zealandmovingforward.
Theopeningofthenew ManawatūTararuaHighway–with notoll,whichMikeButterickandI advocatedstronglyforwasanother highlight!
I’vealsocontinuedtoenjoymy workonthePrimaryProduction SelectCommittee,whichthisyear workedalongsidetheFinanceand ExpenditureCommitteeonthe InquiryintoBankingCompetition. Thefinalreport,releasedinAugust, placedastrongemphasison ruralissuesandincludedpractical recommendationstostrengthen competitionandbettersupportour ruraleconomy–thebackboneof ournation.
Asagovernment,ourfocus hasremainedfirmlyondelivering practicalresults–strengthening theeconomy,easingcost-of-living pressures,improvinghealthand
educationservicesandrestoringlaw andorder.There’sstillmoretodo, butwe’reseeingencouragingsigns ofprogress.Interestratesarenow atathree-yearlow,andmortgage repaymentshavebeenreduced eighttimes,savingthosewitha mortgagearound$10,758ayear.
HereinRangitīkei,it’sbeen anotherbusyandrewardingyear. I’vewelcomed13ofmyMinisterand MPcolleaguestotheelectorate, alongwiththePrimeMinisterin July.I’veattended182events, workedthrough96sittingdaysin Parliamentandmetwithhundreds ofconstituents.
Amajordevelopmentthisyearhas beentheboundarychangeswhich willseetheRangitīkeielectorate takeonanewshapeatthe2026 GeneralElection–losingpartsof thenorthwhileextendingsouth toincludeHorowhenua.Whilethe boundariesmayshift,themighty Rangitīkeiwillcontinuetorepresent thebestofheartlandprovincialand ruralNewZealand.
AsweheadintoChristmasand thesummerbreak,Ihopeeveryone hasthechancetorelax,recharge, andenjoytimewithfamilyand friends.Pleasetakecareonthe roadsandinthewater,andaspecial thankyoutothosewhowillbe workingthroughtheholidays–our amazingemergencyservices,first responders,defencepersonnel,and thosekeepingessentialservices running.Thankyouforyour incrediblededicationandhardwork. WishingyouajoyfulChristmas andahappy,healthyand prosperousNewYear.
AHeartfelt ThankYoutoOur Communityand Supporters
ByShonaLingham
Aswewrapupanotherfantasticyear,wewanttotake amomenttoexpressourdeepestgratitudetoeveryone whohasmadethisCommunityPublicationpossible.
Toouradvertisers—thankyouforyourcontinued trustandpartnership.Yoursupportkeepslocal storiesaliveandthriving.
Wealsoextendabigthankyoutothe Palmerston NorthCityCouncil,Ceda-CentralEconomic DevelopmentAgency,HorizonsRegionalCouncil, TangiUtikere, TeManawaMuseumandthe Manawatū DistrictCouncil,amongothers,forcontributing valuablecontentandinsightsthatenrichourpages. Yourcollaborationhelpsusshowcasetheverybestof ourregion.
Andfinally,aspecialshout-outto ShaunKayand ReneeMurray,whoseincrediblehelpanddedication havebeennothingshortofamazing.
Toourreadersandthewidercommunity—thank youforbeingpartofthisjourney. FocusonManawatū willbebackonthe4thofFebruarynextyear. Until then,enjoytheholidays,staysafe,andwelook forwardtobringingyoumoregreatstoriesin2026.
Here’stoaMerryChristmas,aHappyNewYear,and anexcitingyearaheadfortheManawatū!
PUBLICNOTICE-MrCollins AttentionisdrawntoMrCollins, Amanfondofstraightlines,sketches,andcolumns, Whoonceagainprepares,withseasonalcheer, TochooseaChristmasgiftthatnooneaskedforthisyear. Nowhissister-in-law—remarkablesoul, Elegant,gracious,pure-heartedandwhole, Receiveshispresentswithunmatchedgrace, Thougheachoneteststhelimitsofspace. ForMrCollins,inhisearnestway, Haspreviouslychosen—whatcanonesay, ThemajesticCrapTaxidermy(ahauntingdelight), AndHistoricalHousesofPalmerstonNorth(athrillingnight). Bothtreasuresshegreetedwithaglowingsmile, Atriumphofpatience,amasterclassinstyle. Hershelves,nowbracedforthenextsurprise, Standready,trembling,yetdignified-wise. SoifyoucatchMrCollinsstudyingashelf Ofbooksunwantedevenbytheirownself, Pleaseguidehimkindlytothenearestdoor, Beforehepurchasessomethingevenmoreobscure.
FREECOPY!
OurmonthlypublicationcelebratesManawatuand Rangitikei—sharinglocalstories,insights,andachievements thatmattertoourdiverseruralandprovincialcommunities. Localvoices,realstories.
8,000copiesaredistributedtokeybulkbinsandrural letterboxesaroundtheManawatuarea.
PICKUPYOURFREECOPYONTHE1STTHURSDAY OFEVERYMONTHATTHESELOCATIONS:
PALMERSTONNORTH
NZMEOffice(619MainSt) TerraceEndShops(byMonarch EarCare)
PalmerstonNorthCityLibrary
WoolworthsBroadway(onMainSt) WoolworthsKelvinGrove PalmerstonNorthisite MilsonShoppingCentre VogelStDairy(GoshensFood Mart)
HokowhituVillageCentre HighburySuperette Z- TerraceEnd-ServiceStation DowntownShoppingCentre HavelockAveDairy MP TangiUtikereoffice TeManawaMuseum
TheLidoAquaticCentre AwapuniLibrary Awapuni4Square NewWorldPioneer
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FEILDING: Feildingisite
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A Family-Run Destination Redefining Tradition
Just 15 minutes from Palmerston North, Country Road High Tea on Oroua Road, Kairanga, is quickly becoming one of the region’s most sought-after experiences
This family-run venture blends rural charm with modern elegance, offering a unique and memorable outing for guests of all ages
High tea has long been associated with dainty sandwiches and feminine gatherings but Country Road High Tea is changing that perception “We wanted to create a modern, inclusive experience,” says founder Tanya Watson, former CEO of Watson Real Estate Alongside her daughters Nicole Mills, Steph Gadsby, and daughter-in-law and head chef Kelsey Upson, the team has crafted a destination where everyone feels welcome
From the moment you arrive, it’s the special touches that set the tone gold cutlery, vibrant tea ware, forest and fauna wallpaper, and golden archways all thoughtfully curated to blend modern elegance with rural charm
Country Road High Tea offers a range of packages to suit every guest:
• Deluxe High Tea –a classic indulgence
• Premier High Tea –with a glass of bubbles
• Little Luxe High Tea –designed for 12 to 15-year-olds
• Golden High Tea –a lighter version tailored for the 65+ community
“It’s about creating special memories,” says Tanya “Whether it’s a grandmother bringing her granddaughter or a dad sharing quality time with his son We’ve designed our packages to help families slow down, reconnect, and create memories that linger long after the day is done ”
Each high tea is served on a threetiered stand, laden with an everchanging assortment of savoury and sweet delights Picture Moroccanspiced lamb sandwiches layered with velvety pumpkin purée and zingy harissa-lemon mayo, or choux bites of tarragon chicken that dance on your tongue Handmade egg and caramelised onion tarts with tomato and goat’s feta melt in your mouth
The sweets are equally impressive, with golden scones, lemon pistachio friands, chocolate brownies with silky ganache, and raspberry caramel delights Our guests can enjoy a selection of 19 teas, bubbles for celebrating, and gluten-free and vegetarian options
What truly sets this experience apart is the personal touch Every dish is freshly made on-site each day, with love and attention to detail
The family works together to ensure guests receive not just exceptional food, but also a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes them feel right at home
The venue is also available for events and functions from work gatherings and birthdays to end-ofyear celebrations Event packages are designed to suit different group sizes and stages of life, and the team can tailor every detail to suit the occasion
Whether you’re planning a celebration, catching up with loved ones, or simply craving a beautiful escape from the everyday, Country Road High Tea offers the perfect setting With its stunning
rural backdrop, elegant interiors, and thoughtfully curated menus, it’s more than just a meal it’s an experience Come and discover why so many are making it their go-to destination for connection, indulgence, and unforgettable moments Country Road High Tea is a must-visit
Bookings are essential Visit www countryroadhightea.co.nz
Follow us on socials @ countryroadhightea Instagram/ Facebook
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EXHIBITIONS
UNTILDECEMBER24
Manawatū What’sOn
December/Hakihea2025–January/Kohitātea2026
Santa’sChristmasCave-$2,11am–3pm,FeildingLittleTheatre, 21StaffordSt.Infofeilding.co.nz
UNTILJANUARY4
Santa’sCave–KOHA,10am–5pm7daysexceptChristmasDay, BoxingDayandNewYear’sDay,TeManawaMuseumofArt, ScienceandHeritage,326MainSt.Infotemanawa.co.nz/santa/, 063555000.
DECEMBER8-JANUARY25:
StudioOnTheSquareArtsFestival -FREE.Includes$2500art competition,exhibition,art&craftstalls,artworkshops,9am–4pmMonday–Friday;10am–4pmSaturday/Sunday,SquareEdge CommunityArts,47TheSquare.Info062418444,communityarts. org.nz;artsmanawatu.org.nz
PERFORMANCES
THURSDAYDECEMBER4
AVeryPalmyChristmas:FlicktheSwitch–lighttheCity CouncilChristmasTree!Elves,music,foodtrucks,6pm-9.30pm, TeMaraeoHine/TheSquare.Infopncc.govt.nz/,063568199. TheFeildingMarketFiascobyAlisonQuigan,7.30pm, CentrepointTheatre,ChurchSt.Infocentrepoint.co.nz,06354 5740.
SonicDelusionSMOOOTHSingleReleaseTour–7.30pm,Globe Theatre,312MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz,063514409.
YouHadToBeThere–comedywithCallumWagstaff,ftMama Z&JaseStewart,KOHA,7.30pm,SquareEdgeArtspace,Square Edge,47TheSquare.Info062418444communityarts.org.nz
FRIDAYDECEMBER5
ChristmasMarket –food,music,stallsfrom9am,Kelvin GroveCommunityCentre,68KaimanawaSt,KelvinGrove.Info facebook.com/p/ACK-Palmerston-North CraftsEats&Beats–food,fun,crafts&livemusic,FREEentry, 4pm–8pm,TeMaraeoHine.Infofacebook.com/events
TheFeildingMarketFiascobyAlisonQuigan,7.30pm, CentrepointTheatre,ChurchSt.Infocentrepoint.co.nz,06354 5740.
TheHeist–showcasebyAltitudePole -7.30pm,GlobeTheatre, 312MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz,063514409.
SATURDAYDECEMBER6
EvolvePerformingArtsCentrepresentsDressingUpDreams 11am,DancingDowntheBayou&GlobalBeats,3pm–Spiers Centre,PNBHSFeatherstonSt.InfoEvolvePerformingArts Centre,18QueenSt;evolvepac.co.nz;0220650873.
PhilippineCentralAssnChristmascelebration -Parolmaking contest,11am;Sharedlunch1pm,CommunityLeisureCentre, FergusonSt.Infofacebook.com/PhilCentralNZ/ AshhurstChristmasParade&Market –Market11am–1pm, Parade11am,CommunityChristmasParty12noon–3pm, CambridgeAve,Ashhurst.Infoallevents.in/Ashhurst HorowhenuaChristmasParade&Carnival–floats,stalls,food, entertainment,2pm–6pm,VictoriaSttoLevinDomain.Info horowhenua.govt.nz
CarolsforChristmas1/2withtheRenaissanceSingers,Roy Tankersley-organ,ShirleyXu-piano,3pm–4pm,StPeter’s AnglicanChurch,229RuahineSt,TerraceEnd.Infofacebook. com/RenaissanceSingersPalmerstonNorth ExploreChristmas2025 3.30pm–7pm,ChristmasParade4pm, kidsElfLand,food,stalls,DJ-MainSt,Pahiatua.InfoChristmas@ ExplorePahiatua.co.nz
TheMovesThatMadeUs–AnomalyDanceStudio–6.30pm, RegentonBroadway.Inforegent.co.nz;063502100.
TheFeildingMarketFiascobyAlisonQuigan,7.30pm, CentrepointTheatre,ChurchSt.Infocentrepoint.co.nz,06354 5740.
DarrenWatsonSingsJohnHiatt, 7.30pm,GlobeTheatre2,312 MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz,063514409. MixedNuts-AChristmasCabaret–withMrLolaIllusion,8pm, GlobeTheatre1,312MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz,063514409.
SUNDAYDECEMBER7
EvolvePerformingArtsCentrepresentsDressingUpDreams 11am,DancingDowntheBayou&GlobalBeats,3pm–Spiers Centre,PNBHSFeatherstonSt.InfoEvolvePerformingArts Centre,18QueenSt;evolvepac.co.nz;0220650873.
RedStarDance-PresentationandPrizegiving–11am,Regenton Broadway.Inforegent.co.nz;063502100.
125YearsofMusicMaking –LevinBrassBandanniversary concert,2pm,SpeldhurstCountryEstate,KimberleyRd,Levin. Infofacebook.com/levinbrass
AVeryPalmyChristmas–Parade2pm,ConcertwithLavina Williams3.30pm–7.30pm-plusmarketstalls,foodtrucks& bouncycastles,TeMaraeoHine/TheSquare.Infopncc.govt.nz/ News-Events,063568199.
CarolsforChristmasFeilding 2/2,withtheRenaissanceSingers, RoyTankersley-organ,ShirleyXu-piano,3pm–4pm,StJohns AnglicanChurch,CamdenSt,Feilding.Infofacebook.com/ RenaissanceSingersPalmerstonNorth SundayMatineeSeries-DianaNeild&Friends,$5KOHA, 2.30pm,GlobeTheatre,312MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz,06 3514409.
TheFeildingMarketFiascobyAlisonQuigan,4pm,Centrepoint Theatre,ChurchSt.Infocentrepoint.co.nz,063545740.
WEDNESDAYDECEMBER10
OrganPower#161withRoyTankersley,12.15pm,Pathways StAndrew’sPresbyterianChurch,388ChurchSt.Info pathwayspresbyterianchurch.nz/,063580884.
TheFeildingMarketFiascobyAlisonQuigan,6.30pm, CentrepointTheatre,ChurchSt.Infocentrepoint.co.nz, 063545740.
THURSDAYDECEMBER11
TheFeildingMarketFiascobyAlisonQuigan,7.30pm, CentrepointTheatre,ChurchSt.Infocentrepoint.co.nz, 063545740.
FRIDAYDECEMBER12
TheFeildingMarketFiascobyAlisonQuigan,7.30pm, CentrepointTheatre,ChurchSt.Infocentrepoint.co.nz, 063545740.
SATURDAYDECEMBER13
45thJennyMairHighlandDay –topnationalHighlandpiping, drumming,marchinganddancingcompetitionfrom8.30am,Te MaraeoHine/TheSquare.Infomanawatuscottishsociety.com/ Suzuki-WoodvilleLionsCoasttoCoast-GrassrootsTrust RescueHelicoptercharitymotorcycleridefromHimatangito Akitio,9am,HimatangiBeachCommunityCentre.Infosuzuki. co.nz/cars/suzuki-life/
WoodvilleChristmasParade–market10am–2pm,parade ‘protest’11.30am,FontaineSquareandVogelSt,Woodville.Info iSite063760217/0226439419.
TheLibrary’–KristinReillyDanceproduction,1pm&5pm, GlobeTheatre1,312MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz,063514409. ChristmasinthePark–stalls,food,entertainment,3-7pm,Bulls Domain,DomainRd,Bulls.Infobulls.kiwi;063220051. Danceworks‘KiwiSummerHoliday’1/2,5pm,Regenton Broadway.Inforegent.co.nz;063502100.
‘Yallah!’–AzizaBellydancestudentshowcase –7pm,Globe Theatre,312MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz,063514409. TheFeildingMarketFiascobyAlisonQuigan,FINAL7.30pm, CentrepointTheatre,ChurchSt.Infocentrepoint.co.nz, 063545740.
SUNDAYDECEMBER14
FeildingChristmasCarnival&Parade,10am–3pm,Parade 1.30pm,ManchesterSquare.Infofeilding.co.nz/ FundayFortheFam –KOHAcharityeventforMakeAWishNZ withHighlyLegal-cardisplay,stalls,foodtrucks,prizes,10am, PNCCcarpark,ChurchSt.Info#HighlyLegal,#MakeAWish DanceworksKiwiSummerHoliday2/2,11am,Regenton Broadway.Inforegent.co.nz;063502100. DeveloppeStudio-AMostExtravagantHeist,3pm, GlobeTheatre,312MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz,| 063514409.
MONDAYDECEMBER15
TheGreatestChristmasShow –Song,dance,aerialistsand Santa,7pm,RegentonBroadway.Inforegent.co.nz/shows, 063502100.
WEDNESDAYDECEMBER17
ChristmasCarolSing-along, 12.15pm,PathwaysSt Andrew’sPresbyterianChurch,388ChurchSt.Info pathwayspresbyterianchurch.nz/,063580884.
FRIDAYDECEMBER19
CartownKiwiSuperClassicequestrianshow,1/3,8am –4pm,ManfeildStadium,Feilding.Infofacebook.com/ feildingpromotions
ProfessionalBullRidingNZ –TransTasmanBullRiding Showdown1/2,7pm–9.30pm,ManfeildStadium,Feilding.Info facebook.com/feildingpromotions
VatuDei:LaunchConcert–7pmGlobeTheatre,312MainSt.Info globetheatre.co.nz,063514409.
TheNutcracker–RoyalNewZealandBallet,1/3,7.30pm,Regent onBroadway.Inforegent.co.nz/shows,063502100.
ThePalmerstonNorthChristmasShowwithWillMartin –1/3, NewStageProductions,7.30pm,NgaereNgatuereAuditorium, 391ChurchSt.Infonewstageproductions.com
SATURDAYDECEMBER20
CartownKiwiSuperClassicequestrianshow,2/3,8am –4pm,ManfeildStadium,Feilding.Infofacebook.com/ feildingpromotions
ASpellBeforeChristmaswithThePantoloons,11am,Globe Theatre,312MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz,063514409.
ThePalmerstonNorthChristmasShowwithWillMartin –2/3, NewStageProductions,2pm,NgaereNgatuereAuditorium,391 ChurchSt.Infonewstageproductions.com
TheNutcracker–RoyalNewZealandBallet,2/3-1.30pm, 3/3-7.30pm,RegentonBroadway.Inforegent.co.nz/shows,06 3502100.
ProfessionalBullRidingNZ –TransTasmanBullRiding Showdown2/2,6.30pm–9.30pm,ManfeildStadium,Feilding.Info facebook.com/feildingpromotions
NoScrubs90s&Early00sParty-9pm,TheRoyalHotel,44 RangitīkeiSt.Infothenewroyalhotelpapaioea.com/0220331075.
SUNDAYDECEMBER21
CartownKiwiSuperClassicequestrianshow,3/3,8am –4pm,ManfeildStadium,Feilding.Infofacebook.com/ feildingpromotions
ThePalmerstonNorthChristmasShowwithWillMartin–3/3, NewStageProductions,2pm,NgaereNgatuereAuditorium,391 ChurchSt.Infonewstageproductions.com CommunityCarolswiththeFeildingBrassBand–Entry:canof foodforfoodbank-from5pm,FeildingCivicCentre84AorangiSt, Feilding.Infofeildingciviccentre.org.nz
CHRISTMASEVE-WEDNESDAYDECEMBER24. ChristmasEveCarolswithNewLifeChurch,FREE,7pm,Regent onBroadway.Inforegent.co.nz;063502100.
CHRISTMASDAY-THURSDAYDECEMBER25
WhorphonsChristmaz–apotluckcelebration,R16,1pm,The JackzonEffectStudio,BourkeSt.Infospankydq
BOXINGDAY-FRIDAYDECEMBER26
SUNDAYDECEMBER28
FirefightersFootball–Preparetogetwet!Registration9am, event10am,HimatangiBeachPlayPark.Infofacebook.com/ people/Himatangi-Beach-Volunteer-Fire-Brigade.
NEWYEAR’SEVE-WEDNESDAYDECEMBER31
NewYear’sEveinTheSquare –FREE,5pm–midnight.Familyfriendly.Music,entertainment,fireworksdisplaysat9.30pm& 11.59pm,TeMaraeoHine.Infopncc.govt.nz/News-Events NEWYEAR’SDAY-THURSDAYJANUARY1,2026: HAPPYNEWYEAR!
FRIDAYJANUARY2
WaitārereBeachBigDig-2pm–4pm,KahukuraAve,Waitārere Beach.Infofacebook.com/levinbrass;0274102420. CraftsEats&Beats –food,fun,crafts&livemusic,FREEentry, 4pm–8pm,TeMaraeoHine.Infofacebook.com/events
THURSDAYJANUARY8
PopUpEatsinFoxtonBeach–5pm–8pm,Holben/Te WharangiReserve,SeaburyAve.Infoteawahou.com/Whats-On; horowhenua.govt.nz/News-Event
SUNDAYJANUARY11
TeHīkoiToi–FINALwithWarrenWarbrick:9.50am–10.40am &2pm–3.40pm,TeAhuaTurangaWesternGatewayPark,1631 NapierRd,Ashhurst.Infomanawatunz.co.nz/events/te-hikoi-toi/ FRIDAYJANUARY16
MartonCountryMusicFestival1/3,ftAmberJoyPoulton (Aus),BrendanDugan,Cooper’sRun,KylieAustinand SophieToynefrom10am,SirJamesWilsonMemorialPark, MarumaruSt,Marton.Infoevents.humanitix.com/host/ martoncountrymusicfestival
SATURDAYJANUARY17
HorowhenuaAP&IShow -1/2,9am–4pm,LevinShowgrounds, VictoriaSt,Levin.Infolevinapishow.co.nz
AllAussieCarDaywiththeManawatuAussieCarClub, proceedstoStarshipChildren’sHospital,10am-1pm,Manfeild Raceway,Feilding.Infofacebook.com/pages/Manfeild-Raceway.
MartonCountryMusicFestival2/3,ftAmberJoyPoulton(Aus), BrendanDugan,Cooper’sRun,KylieAustinandSophieToynefrom 10am,SirJamesWilsonMemorialPark,MarumaruSt,Marton.Info events.humanitix.com/host/martoncountrymusicfestival Superscoot‘Who’sYourHero’StreetArtTour–12pm–2pm, SquareEdgeCommunityArts,47TheSquare.Infofacebook.com/ events
HimatangiBeach“BigDig”-from12pm,annualfundraiserfor HimatangiSurfLifesavingClub,HimatangiBeach.Infofacebook. com/morefmmanawatu;069526420
JimmyCarrLaughsFunny1/3-7pm,2/3–9pm,R16,Regenton Broadway.Inforegent.co.nz/shows,063502100.
SUNDAYJANUARY18
HorowhenuaAP&IShow-2/2,9am–4pm,LevinShowgrounds, VictoriaSt,Levin.Infolevinapishow.co.nz MartonCountryMusicFestival3/3,ftAmberJoyPoulton (Aus),BrendanDugan,Cooper’sRun,KylieAustinandSophie Toynefrom10am–12pm,SirJamesWilsonMemorialPark, MarumaruSt,Marton.Infoevents.humanitix.com/host/ martoncountrymusicfestival
JimmyCarrLaughsFunny 3/3-7pm,R16,RegentonBroadway. Inforegent.co.nz/shows,063502100.
MONDAYJANUARY19 –WELLINGTONANNIVERSARYDAY
SUNDAYJANUARY25
StudioOnTheSquareArt&CraftMarket -FREEentry.Includes $2500artcompetition,exhibition,art&craftstalls,artworkshops, 10am–2pm,SquareEdgeCommunityArts,47TheSquare.Info communityarts.org.nz;artsmanawatu.org.nz 062418444,
WEDNESDAYJANUARY28
RodgersandHammerstein&Friends-OperatunityDaytime Concerts,11am,NewLifeChurch,590FeatherstonSt,Roslyn.Info operatunity.co.nz/
SATURDAYJANUARY31
ManfeildLIVE!–ftKora,Dragon,TheBlackSeeds,JordanLuck Band,MidnightSwitch,4pm-10pm,ManfeildPark,Feilding.Info manfeild.co.nz
WhispersofTheVeilVenetianMasqueradeBall, 6.30pm–1am, DistinctionHotel,CubaSt.Infodistinctionhotelspalmerstonnorth. co.nz,063555895
WAITANGIDAY-FRIDAYFEBRUARY6
GypsyFair 1/3,9am–5pm,RailwayReserve,ChurchSt.Info gypsyfairnz
WaitangiDay –FREE,10am–2pm,TeMaraeoHine.Info PNevents@pncc.govt.nz,063568199
ENZEDSuperstockTeamsChampionshipWeekend –FREEpublic scrutineering,12.30pm–3pm,TeMaraeoHine.Infofacebook.com/ pnspeedway;0800383688.
CraftsEats&Beats –food,fun,crafts&livemusic,FREEentry, 4pm–8pm,TeMaraeoHine.Infofacebook.com/events
SATURDAYFEBRUARY7
GypsyFair 2/3,9am–5pm,RailwayReserve,ChurchSt.Info gypsyfairnz
CenotaphCentenary-100yearsofthePalmerstonNorthWar Memorial,TeMaraeoHine.Infopncc.govt.nz/news-events;06 3568100.
ScottCook&PamelaMae–NorthAmericantroubadours, 7.30pm,GlobeTheatre,312MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz, 063514409.
SUNDAYFEBRUARY8
GypsyFair 3/3,9am–5pm,RailwayReserve,ChurchSt.Info gypsyfairnz
FeildingLunchontheSquare–EatStreetMarket:Foodmusicand market,10am–2pm,ManchesterSquare,Feilding.Info:feilding. co.nz,063233318.
TherewillbenoWhat’sOnpublishedinJanuary2026.January performancesareincludedintheDecember2025calendar.Thefirst issueofWhat’sOnfor2026willbepublishedonThursdayFebruary5. Disclaimer:Harcourt’sWhat’sOnisanattempttocorralamonth’sworthof regionalManawatūshows,performances,festivals,communityandcultural eventsforeasyday-by-dayreference.
Itdoesnotclaimtobedefinitive.
Whileeveryefforthasbeenmadetoaccuratelylisteventstheirvenuesand times,patronsareadvisedtocheckforanyadditions,changes,cancellationsand postponements.
NB:Unlesstherearespecialcircumstances,sportingevents;movies;workshops; classes;religiousorspiritualsessionsandservices;publicmeetingsand addresses;productpromotions,presentationsandlauncheswillbeexcluded. ForconsiderationofaFREElisting,emailgotolist@gmail.comwithabriefevent descriptionincludingplace,dates,timesandcontactdetailsby20thofthemonth priortotheevent.
PreparedbyLookOut!Communications.
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