Focus On Manawatu September 2025 by NZME.

Tangi Utikere, MP for Palmerston North

It has been great to celebrate some Paciﬁc Language Weeks recently – those of Kiribati, Vanuatu Cook Islands and Tonga

Here in Palmy we are fortunate to be part of a vibrant, multi-cultural, and diverse community

Pacific Language weeks are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our Pacific community, and the continuation of Pacific languages in everyday life

We have a strong Paciﬁc community in Palmerston North, and I love spending time with them I was privileged to attend 60th anniversary celebrations and a ﬂag raising ceremony with our Cook Islands community

I also took part in local Indian Independence Day celebrations last month - a ﬂag raising ceremony to start the day, and ending with a fantastic community gathering with dance, song and food

We have a strong local Indian community in Palmerston North, and as I’ve been part of these celebrations for the last couple of years, it was wonderful to celebrate with them again as their local MP

The electorate boundary changes process is now complete, and at the next general election the Palmerston North electorate will expand to include the Summerhill, Linton, Longburn and Bunnythorpe areas

As a former Deputy Mayor and Councillor on the Palmerston North City Council, I have represented these areas previously, so I am excited

Contact Information:

Shona Lingham, Commercial Leader

E: Shona.lingham@nzme co.nz | P: 027 895 5969

Kieran Curley, Media Specialist

E: kieran curley@nzme co nz | P: 0274 989 429

by the prospect that their inclusion brings I look forward to welcoming all new constituents into the Palmerston North electorate

With local body elections just around the corner, thank you to all those who have put themselves forward as candidates in Palmerston North

I encourage everyone to engage and become informed about this process The makeup of our council is important and lifting voter turnout is a priority to ensure the council represents the views of as many in our community as possible

Meet the candidates meetings are being held in Palmerston North in the lead up to the election, and I encourage everyone to attend one of these to learn more about those putting themselves forward as representatives of our city

Distribution:

I have continued to hold my regular Palmy Popup clinics but if you have any issues or concerns about local issues, please feel free to get in touch

You can pick up your copy from drop boxes located throughout the Manawatū suburbs

Submissions: For editorial content and photos, please send them to Shona Lingham at Shona lingham@nzme co nz

Advertising Enquiries: For advertising enquiries, please contact Shona or Kieran.

Viv’sKitchen:WhereCreamHorns,Community, andGoodHumourRiseDaily

ByReneeMurray

IfSansonhasaheartbeat,you’llhearitfromthe kitchenatViv’sKitchen.Theclangofthegrill,the hissofthecoffeemachine,andthesoftthumpof pipingbagsasanotherlineofcreamhornsisﬁlled. OwnerVivWithersfamouslyhittheheadlines backin2021aftersellingher300,000thcream horn.Today,thattallyhassurgedpast613,000 andcounting.Theturningpoint?Avisitfrom broadcasterDuncanGarner.“Theyjusttookoff,” Vivsays.“Sowetookthebullbythehorns,literally, andleanedin.”

Walkinonabusymorningandyou’llgetthe picture.Rowsofpastryshells,apronsdustedin sugar,pipingbagseverywhere,thegrillcookﬁring upbreakfasts,andlocalsstreaminginforpies, sammies,sweettreats,andcoffee.It’scheerful chaos,thekindthatonlyhappenswhenaplace humswithregularswhofeellikefamily.

There’sasoftspotfortraditionhere,too. Vivkeepshermum’srecipeclose:NanaRuth’s ChocolateFudge,thebaseofseveralslices, sometimesﬁnishedsimplywithchocolateicingand acoconutsprinkle.AskVivforherownfavourite andshewon’tblink:chocolateeclairs.Classics becomeclassicsforareason.

RegularsshapethesoulofViv’sKitchen.Dawn arriveseverymorningforacheesetoastieanda smallﬂatwhite,greetedbynameandseatedat herownreservedtable.Ontheraredaysthedoors areshut,Christmas,BoxingDay,GoodFriday,staff makesureapreppedtoastiegoeshomewithher. Thenthere’sTrudyandKeith,thekindofcustomers whobecomefriends,sharingaquicklaughandthe odddinnerout.It’sthatkindofplace:warm,abit cheeky,andgenuinelypeople-ﬁrst.

Viv’sfavouriteseat?“Ourbooth,farside,top left-handcorner.”It’sreservedeachnightsoshe andherteamcanhavebreakfastandwatchthe roomwakingup.Fromthere,shecanspotthe newcomersthemomenttheywalkin,eyesonthe cabinet,phonesoutforasnapofthosecream horns.

Behindthescenes,theworkisreal.Rosters, last-minutesickcalls,swappingshifts,keeping theteamhappy,it’sthepartnoonesees.And whensomethingneedsdoing,Vivdoesit.“There’s nothingIdon’tdo,”shelaughs.“LastweekIwas onmyhandsandkneesscrubbingthechiller ﬂoor.”Onagoodday,sheevensqueezesina quickdanceandsingalongwiththekitchencrew, becausejoyisaningredient,too.

Themostunusualrequestsofar?Gettingﬁlled creamhornstotheUKfora70thbirthday.Mission acceptedandaccomplished.That’sthespirit here:ifitmatterstosomeone,itmatterstoViv’s Kitchen.

AskVivaboutaperfectdayoffandshe describessomethingdisarminglysimple:alater

alarm(6a.m.counts),aquietcoffeewithoutthe phonepinging,anearlybreakfast,thenafullday inthegardenbeforesittingbacktoadmirethe work.“Homeandgarden,ourhappyplace,”she says.Youcanfeelthatsamecontentmentinthe café:industrious,welcoming,proudlylocal.

Sansonhasplentytobeproudof,butViv’s Kitchenisspecial.It’swhereahumblecreamhorn becamearegionalicon,whereregularshavetheir owntables,andwheretheownerstillrollsupher sleeves.Ifyouhaven’tbeenyet,bringyoursweet toothandasparemomenttosit,lookaround,and watchthemagichappen.

Dinosaurs? Pirates? Talking Sandwiches? Anything Can Happen at Imagination Station

From their minds to the stage, the kids are in charge here The latest kids-centric improv show at Centrepoint Theatre is Imagination Station, the show where you decide what happens next.

It’s three performers, Leona Revell, Alan Dingley and Alexia Clark, have a lot of fun working on stage together

“It’s a real team effort, Alexia says We’re constantly supporting each other, picking up cues and building on ideas There s this great sense of trust If someone takes a big creative leap the rest of us are right there to back them up ”

“It’s so much fun!” Alan adds “The silliness and giggling we’ve had in rehearsals has been amazing.

As a musical theatre kid through and through, Alexia has always worked on shows that follow a set rehearsal process, whereas Imagination Station is the exact opposite “You turn up to rehearsal and you never know if you’re going to be telling a story about a TikTok famous lion or singing about your favourite cheeses

“Alan and Leona have drilled into me that you can’t plan too much You just have to listen, react, and trust your instincts ”

For Alan, he can’t wait to unleash his inner child and be ready for anything that may be thrown at him “I’m lucky to have what I call a labrador brain, so I’m happy to be thrown off focus at any point ”

“Working with two amazing people like Leona and Alexia, the energy they give out is just astounding.

Leona, Alan and Alexia hope that audiences leave with sore cheeks from smiling and laughing so much and carry a spark of imagination long after the show is ﬁnished.

So, hop on board the Imagination Station

Bring your brain, imagination, and loudest suggestions What will happen next? That s up for you to decide!

www.centrepoint.co.nz/imagination-station

Keri-Mei Zagrobelna, Hongi Mai, 2025 Collection of the artist Photo Jess O’ Brien 326 Main Street, PN

Centrepoint Theatre / Lauren Hutchinson

FullWhanganui SteamExperience

TakearelaxeddaytriptoWhanganuiaboard aheritagetrainpoweredbyoursteam locomotiveJa1271.LeavingKapitiearly,the journeywindsthroughHorowhenuafarmland, stoppinginPalmerstonNorthbeforeheading throughFeildingandMarton.Fromthere,the trainjoinstheMarton–NewPlymouthline, crossingtheWhanganuiRiverandcontinuing downashortbranchlinetoTaupoQuay.

OnceinWhanganui,you’vegotoptions.You canjoinapeacefulcruiseonthePSWaimarie,a coal-ﬁredpaddlesteamerthatwassalvagedand restoredafterdecadesunderwater.Thecruise offersauniqueviewoftheriveranditshistory, withcommentaryandachancetoseetheboiler inaction.Youcanevensendamessagevia homingpigeon.Foranextratreat,pre-orderan artisanpicnichamperfortwo,packedwithfresh breads,meats,cheeses,andasweetﬁnish.

Ifyou’dratherexploreonyourown,buseswill takeyouintotownwhereyoucanhireavintage cruiserbikeortakeashorttouroftheDurieHill Elevator—NewZealand’sonlypublictransport elevator.There’splentytosee:localartatNZ Glassworks,riversidegardens,atramride,and plentyofspotstoeatorshop.

Onthereturnjourney,enjoyasimplebuttasty dinnerservedatyourseatafterleavingMarton: chickensalad,aminibaguette,andachocolate brownie.Dietaryoptionsareavailable—justletus knowwhenbooking.

Thistripoffersamixofhistory,scenery,and freedomtoexploreatyourownpace.

TheRangitīkeiispartofwhoIam.It’swher wefarmandraisedourfamily.Iamproudto beyourlocalMP.

Pleasecontactmeforadvocacyservices,individua assistance,oraccesstotheparliamentaryprocess. Connectwithme:

Suze.RedmayneMP@parliament.govt.nz•06323725 51FergussonStreet,Feilding suzeredmaynempsuzeredmaynerangitikei

AuthorisedbySRedmayne,ParliamentBuildings,Wgtn.

Water Services Delivery Plan Adopted

The Manawatū District Council has proudly adopted its Water Services Delivery Plan, marking a signiﬁcant milestone for the district. Choosing a standalone, in-house model to deliver its Waters Services (drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater)

reflects the district’s strong financial footing, years of proactive investment, and a clear message of confidence from the community

Council officers have worked closely with the Department of Internal Affairs throughout the development of the delivery services plan to ensure the proposed plan aligns with national requirements and will be readily accepted by central government

Mayor Helen Worboys expressed her pride in the achievement, stating: This plan is the result of years of careful investment and foresight by Council Our team has built a strong and respected working relationship with the Department of Internal Affairs, ensuring open dialogue and constructive feedback throughout The adoption of this standalone model is proof that our district is well positioned to manage our Water Services into the future ”

The decision to adopt the standalone model follows extensive community consultation earlier this year Council received over 500 submissions, with the overwhelming

majority sending a clear message to ‘keep doing what you’re doing ’ That strong endorsement gave Council the mandate to retain control of water services locally, rather than shifting to a shared or outsourced model.

The Water Services Delivery Plan will now be formally submitted to the DIA ahead of the legislative deadline in September 2025 and will provide the foundation for how Water Services are managed, maintained, and improved across

the Manawatū District for years to come This achievement is more than just a compliance requirement. It is a testament to the conﬁdence the community has in Council’s ability to safeguard the district s most vital resource

Living Music

A Century of Manawatū Community Music

Palmerston

North Music Club

The Dorian Society

Musica Viva Manawatu

Anew book has arrived in town. Living Music, A Century of Manawatū Community Music has been a labour of love over the past year for coauthors Guy Donaldson and Russell Poole The book celebrates a century of local performances - mostly of the classical genre - performers, concerts competitions public events and more The authors outline this history with a mix of descriptions, newspaper articles, many historic concert programmes special events personal stories, the movers and shakers, humorous moments, and comments that touch on changing social norms such as performance and concert etiquette There is even mention of local political involvements with the Palmerston North City Council, various mayors, and the changing requirements and architecture of venues

Living Music is published in a very easy-read format with plenty of chapters subheadings images and lists to guide the reading Guy Donaldson and Russell Poole begin their book Living Music in 1925 when the Palmerston North Girls Music Club came into being

Just over eighty years ago, in 1944, a second organisation, the Dorian Music Society arrived on the scene

Both organisations aimed to foster appreciation of classical music and to encourage young musicians to perform The main difference was that the Dorian Music Society admitted both men and women, while the Palmerston North Music Club from 1925 to 1983 was femaleonly In 1983 the two groups merged to create Musica Viva Manawatū Incorporated

Musica Viva continues a lively existence at the present day and is very proud of its nurturing of young musicians especially within the Young Performers Scholarship programme

The book attests to this success outlining the prizewinners over the years and highlighting talented past winners who have gone on to national and international fame

The authors have both had distinguished careers Guy Donaldson, the initial driver behind the book, was a senior lecturer in music education at Massey University until 2004 He continues to work as a piano teacher, coach, conductor, adjudicator, piano soloist,

accompanist, chamber music player and concert convenor In December 2024 he was awarded the prestigious Civic Honours Award for community music Russell Poole is a Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Medieval Studies at the University of Western Ontario He is the editor of the Manawatū Journal of History and is a member of the Manawatū Sinfonia

Living Music celebrates the wonderful musical heritage found in the Manawatū engendered by these organisations that have fostered

and grown the love of music for performer and listener alike The book is a ﬁtting embrace of this centenary celebration Musica Viva continues the high class music tradition beyond the centenary holding a concert every second Monday in the Evelyn Rawlins Room Square Edge and always encouraging young musicians in performance It has an active Facebook page Living Music is available for purchase at the nationally acclaimed Bruce McKenzie Booksellers in George Street, Palmerston North

AffordableRates•FloodManagement

Wells Peter

Fabric-a-braceventinPalmylooking toincreasetotalforHospice

PalmywillbethefocusofallthingsmaterialagaininSeptember.

TheFabric-a-bracfabricmarket andupcyclingeventisnow heldintenlocationsaround NewZealandandithasraised over$200,000forhospiceinNew Zealandsincestartingupin2009.

Fabric-a-bracisamarketthat isabout‘thingstomakethings -focusedonfabricandsewingrelateditems’.Therearealways vintagetreasuresandbargainsto behad!Stallholderstakeouttables toselltheirunwanteditems,there willalsobetablessellingdonated fabric,patterns,sewingsupplies andapop-upcafesellingdelicious sweettreatsandteaandcoffee.In PalmerstonNorthallproﬁtsgoto theArohanuiHospice.

Theeventisvolunteer-run,and itistheirpassionforsewingand fabric,andtheworkofHospice,that bringstheeventtolife.

OrganiserJosieBrennansays peoplesharemorethanfabricatthe event.

“Theysharememories,stories, aspirationsandideas.It’salovely, positivesupportiveatmosphere, peoplearesharingstoriesoftheir mothersorgrandmothersthat haveleftastashbehind,oftheir memoriesoffabricremnantsand whattheyweremadeinto,orjust sharingprojectideasforfabric

ﬁnds.Othersarejustgettingstarted ondressmaking/quiltingorother fabriccreativityandcanmixand minglewithothers,havehelp, gleaninformation,getcreativeand inspired.”

It’sawonderfulcreativeeventthat alsohassustainabilityatitscorehelpingfabricandsewingitemsﬁnd newownerstoturnthemintonew creations.

Eventdetails

Fabric-a-bracPalmerstonNorth CrossroadsHall,cnrofChurch andCookSts 10am-1pm,Saturday13September 2025

Formoreinformation Name:JosieBrennan Telephonenumber:0212235573 www.fabricabrac.com

HelpboostPalmy’spotentialwiththe CreativeCommunitiesScheme

Areyoupassionateaboutthe arts?Doyouhaveaproject thatcouldaddsomething specialtoPalmerstonNorth’s vibrantculture?

Fundingisnowopenforthe ﬁrstroundofourannualCreative CommunitiesScheme,apartnership betweenPalmerstonNorthCity CouncilandCreativeNewZealand thatcouldhelpmakeyourartistic ideasareality.Applicationsareopen until1September2025.

Oneoftherecipientsofourmost recentroundoffundingwasthe ShreeDanceAcademyNZwhich ranaseriesofworkshopsoffering theopportunitytolearntheIndian classicalartform,Kathak.Kathak isavibrantandexpressiveclassical

Indiandanceformofstorytelling, knownforitsintricatefootwork, gracefulmovements.

TeacherNehaJhasaysCreative Communitiesfundinghelpedlast year’sparticipantstolearnthe ancientartformandperforminfront ofanaudience.

“WhileBollywoodiswidely recognized,manypeopleareless familiarwithIndia’sclassicaland regionaldancetraditions.This projectofferedparticipantsnotonly anintroductiontothemovements butalsoanunderstandingofthe richculturalandhistoricalcontext behindthem.

Theworkshopsweredesigned toactivelyengageparticipants fromvariousbackgrounds,and

agegroups,promotinginclusivity, communityinvolvement,andartistic collaboration.”

ShesaystheCreative Communitiesfundinghelped coverarangeofcostsandthatthe processwasfairlysimple.

“Thefundingenabledustocover costssuchashallhireandfacilitator time,whichmeantwecouldoffer theworkshopsfreeofchargeto participants.Thishelpedremove ﬁnancialbarriersandmadethe workshopsmoreaccessibletoall.

“Theapplicationprocesswas clearandstraightforward.Iwould deﬁnitelyencourageothersinthe communitytoapplyforthisfundif theyhaveacreativeorcommunityfocusedidea.It’sawonderful

opportunitytobringpeople togetherandcelebratediverse culturesinmeaningfulways.”

TheCreativeCommunitiesscheme providesfundingtolocalarts projectsthatcreateopportunities forpeopleinPalmerstonNorthto participate,supportthediverse artisticandculturaltraditionsofour localcommunitiesandencourage under18’stoengagewiththearts.

Tobeeligibleforfunding,your projectneedstohaveanartsor culturalfocusandtakeplacewithin PalmerstonNorthCityCouncil boundaries.

Forhelppreparingyour application,checkouttheCreative CommunitiesSchemeApplication Guideonourwebsiteatpncc.govt. nz/creativecommunities.Ifyou’dlike tohaveachatwithourCommunity Fundingadvisoraboutyourproject, giveusacallon:063568199or emailcommunityfunding@pncc. govt.nz.

Celebrating One Year of Stories Along the Manawatū River

Since its launch on 31 May 2024, He Ara Kotahi, Hei Ara Kōrero has welcomed more than 10,450 visitors on a journey that connects the past present and future of Te Awa o Manawatū – the Manawatū River

Two years in the making this unique kaupapa blends the physical and digital to bring to life pūrākau (stories), oral histories, and historical recreations through the voices of Rangitāne o Manawatū Whether on foot, by bike, or even via Flamingo scooter, locals and visitors alike can explore eight kilometres of river pathways and six sites of cultural signiﬁcance

At each site, a QR code unlocks authentic ancestral knowledge through video interviews, illustrated recreations animations and stories stretching back as far as the 1600s Turitea Pā is the furthest to reach – a 5km return walk or ride from He Ara

Kotahi bridge where you’ll go past the Urban Eels platform

Exploring the six different sites visitors are provided with an authentic and trusted source of ancestral knowledge through an innovative and interactive storytelling experience By scanning the QR codes at each site you can interact with video interviews, stories illustrated recreations and animations to discover what life was like as far back as the 1600s It is a living, breathing canvas of narratives As one visitor reﬂected, With each

step each scan and each story you feel the river’s history come alive ”

For those unable to explore in person the experience is fully accessible online at heiarakorero nz

The website offers video interviews, maps, graphic novels, and education kits for tauira (students), alongside a private repository managed by Rangitāne o Manawatū to safeguard iwi mātauranga for future generations

This collaboration between Rangitāne o Manawatū and the Central Economic Development

Agency (CEDA) was made possible through funding from Te Urungi: Cultural Sector Regeneration Fund, from Manatū Taonga – Ministry for Culture and Heritage

As it moves into its second year, the vision remains the same: to inspire and connect whānau kura and hāpori with the Manawatū River and to share its rich pūrākau in innovative and meaningful ways

This story was brought to you by CEDA, via ManawatuNZ.co.nz.

m Verne Wilson, a candidate for the almerston North City Council and proud sident I am standing to make a positive fference for the city I was born in, and where y grandchildren, now the fourth generation, e growing up

s a businessman and retailer in the City Centre r the past 17 and a half years, I have owned nd operated The Coffee Club on The Square believe in working hard, staying resilient, and cusing on doing the basics well

x years ago, I helped establish the Business mprovement District (BID), and I currently serve Co-Chair of its Board BID advocates for tailers, landlords, and everyone who uses our BD We are committed to making Palmerston orth a safer city, supporting initiatives like instating Police on the beat and running Safe ty Hosts to assist with night-time safety

TheRenaissanceSingersare enjoyingawonderfulgolden jubileeyear.Followinga polishedperformanceinMay,we areexcitedtopresentanothergreat concerton13Septemberat7.00pm.

Performingincollaborationwith ManawatuSinfoniaattheCathedral oftheHolySpirit,Broadway, PalmerstonNorth,willbring backspecialmemoriesofformer concertsinourjointhistories.

Forthisconcert,conductor, ChristineArcher-Lockwood,has selectedthreepastfavourites: Bach’sMagniﬁcatfeaturingsoloists CarolineHickman,JenniferLittle, BronteHodgetts,NigelTongs,and LindsayYeo;therousingOrff’s OFortuna,andDanForrest’s ThreeNocturnesfeaturing ﬁvepercussionistscreatinga soundscapeofsparklingstars.New toPalmerstonNorthaudiences willbethedelightfulsongcycle ThenIUnderstoodbyNewZealand composerAnthonyRichie.The selectionofLauraRanger’spoems, writtenwhenshewasachild,are whimsical,yetprofound-theywill transportandenchant.

Thiswillbeaconcertnottobe missed.

GeneralAdmission:Adults$25, Seniors’Concession$20,Students

withID$15,12andUnderFree, StreamedRecording$15.Tickets availablefromchoirmembersand attheCathedraldoorfrom6.30pm;

alsofromHumanitixbooking services.Servicefeesadditional whencharged.

Coffee &Politics

Opening theDoor toPetsin Rentals

AudreyGrinter, Property Management Advisor –WatsonIntegrity

AsaPropertyManagementAdvisor,oneof thequestionsIgetaskedoftenis“Should Iallowpetsinmyrental?”Myanswer? It’sdeﬁnitelyworthconsidering.Allowingpets opensyourpropertytomoretenants,cutdown thetimeitsitsvacant,andoftenmeanslonger, moresettledtenancies—aslongasyou’vegot someclearandfairconditionsinplacefromthe start.

Tenantstodaywanthomeswheretheirfourleggedfamilyarewelcome.Acrosstheregion we’reseeingsteadydemandfromresponsible petowners.Landlordswhosay“yes,with conditions”usuallynoticemoreenquiriesand strongerapplications.

Thekeyistomanagerisk,notshutthedoor. Here’show:

• Screenthepetaswellasthepeople. Ask fora“petrésumé”:age,breed,training, referencesfrompreviouslandlordsanda photo.

• Setclearhouserules. Thinkcommon-sense limitslikeoutdoorareasfortoileting,nopets onbenchtops,andagreementoncarpetcare.

• Putitinwriting. Addapetclausecovering number/typeofpets,damageresponsibility, cleaningrequirementsattheendoftenancy, andexpectationsfornoiseandlawn/garden care.

• Inspectappropriately. Routineinspections (withinlegallimits)helpcatchsmallissues early—scratches,gardenwear,orlingering odours—sotheydon’tbecomebigones.

• Insurancecheck-up. Conﬁrmyourlandlord policycoverspet-relateddamageand understandanyexcessesorexclusions.

WhattheLawSays

TheResidentialTenanciesAmendmentAct 2024hassetthestageforclearerrulesaround

petsinrentals,withchangesexpectedtocome intoeffectlaterin2025.Underthenewlaw, tenantswillonlybeabletokeeppetsiftheir tenancyagreementallowsitoriftheyhave writtenconsentfromthelandlord.Landlords willneedtorespondtopetrequestsinwriting within21days,andrefusalsmustbebasedon reasonablegrounds,suchasinadequatefencing, propertyunsuitability,orlocalbylaws.Landlords mayalsorequireapetbondofuptotwoweeks’ rent,inadditiontothestandardbond,tocover damagebeyondfairwearandtear.Disability assistdogsareexemptandmustbeaccepted, withnobondallowed.

Sowhatdoesthisreallymeanforourlocal community?Forlandlords,allowingpetsdoesn’t havetobeariskifit’smanagedwellwithgood screeningandclearagreements.Fortenants, thelawchangesmeanmoretransparencyanda fairerchancetosecureahomewherepetsare welcome.Whenbothsidesworktogether,we seestrongerapplications,longertenancies,and happierhouseholdsallround.I’malwayshappy toofferadviceifyou’dliketochatfurther.

We’reproudtobacklocalprojectsinthecommunities aroundourwindfarmsandhydrostationswithour PowerUpfund.

WithPowerUp,yourcommunityhasasayonwhat initiativeswesupportandfund.PowerUpTeĀpitiprovides grantsforprojectsinAshhurstandWoodville. Howtoapply

ApplicationsareopenuntilmidnightonSunday21 September.Formoreinformationandtoapply: •visitmeridian.co.nz/community-support/fund •emailcommunity@meridianenergy.co.nz •call021980565 ApplynowforMeridian’s

CommunityResourcesFeature

PalmerstonNorthentrepreneur andenvironmentalengineer NelsonHarperisprovingthat localexpertisecanopenglobal doors.AsfounderofPrecycleNZ,his consultancyhasdeliveredwastereductionandcirculareconomy solutionsatscale,frommajorevents toindustryprojects.Thisweek hisinternationalworkcamefull circlewhenaMalaysianbusiness

delegation,hostedinPalmerston North,exploredopportunitiesfor exportgrowth,importpartnerships andinvestment.Thevisitstemmed fromHarper’stieswiththe MalaysiaNewZealandChamberof Commerce,builtduringhiswork inSoutheastAsiathroughthe CentreofAsia-PaciﬁcExcellence. Byshowcasinglocalbusinesses andopportunities,thedelegation

positionedPalmerstonNorthat thecentreofdiscussionsontwowaytradeandinnovation.Harper’s globalnetworksextendfurther. InSingaporeheconnectedNew Zealandcompanieswithinvestors andcontributedtoreportsonexport potentialthatwerelaterpresented togovernment.Earlierthisyear inTaipei,hesharedPrecycleNZ’s expertiseattheSmartCitiesSummit,

whileengagingwithTaiwanese ﬁrmsonsustainableinfrastructure anddata-drivenplanningthatcould beusedtoimproveregionalNew ZealandcitieslikePalmerstonNorth Fromwastesolutionstointernational trade,NelsonHarper’swork demonstrateshowPalmerstonNorth cancompeteontheworldstage whilebringingfreshopportunities backtotheregion.

Pickupfabulousvintageandmodernfabricatbargainpricesandhelp someoneelseclearouttheirsewingcupboard.Popupcafewithbaristamadecoffeeanddelicioussweettreats.Ifyouhavefabrictodonate,you candropoffatanyArohanuiHospiceshop.AllinaidofArohanuiHospice.

CommunityResourcesFeature

CommunityResourcesStrengthen SupportAcrossManawatū

ByShonaLingham

Communitiesthroughoutthe Manawatūaresupportedbya widerangeofresources,with servicesreachingfromPalmerston Northtosurroundingtownssuch asFeildingandAshhurst.Together, theseorganisationsensureresidents canaccesshealthcare,social support,andopportunitiestostay connected.

InPalmerstonNorth, TeTihio RuahineWhānauOraAlliance continuestobeacornerstone provider.Theorganisationoffers holisticsupport,fromhousing andeducationpathwaystohealth initiatives,workingalongside familiestostrengthenlong-term wellbeing.

www.tetihi.org.nz

ighbourhoodSupportManawatū hasastrongpresenceacrossthe district,encouragingresidents intownsandruralcommunities toconnectwithoneanother.By fosteringsafer,moreresilient neighbourhoods,theinitiativebuilds trustandlocalsupportnetworks.

www.nsmanawatu.org.nz

Healthservicesremainapriority throughouttheregion. BestCare (WhakapaiHauora) delivers kaupapaMāorihealthcarein PalmerstonNorth,includingmental healthandaddictionprogrammes. www.whakapaihauora.org.nz

Youngpeoplebeneﬁtfrom YouthOneStopShop(YOSS), whichprovidesfreemedicalcare, mentoring,andcounselling. www.yoss.org.nz

InFeilding, FeildingHealthCare continuestoexpandservicesfor families,whilesmallercommunities suchasAshhursthaveaccess tolocalclinicsandoutreach programmesthatreducebarriersto care.

Communityhubsalsoenrich locallife. PalmerstonNorthCity Library provideschildren’sstory times,workshops,andcultural events(citylibrary.pncc.govt.nz). FeildingLibrary offersavarietyof localprogrammesandresources (www.feildinglibrary.org.nz),while AshhurstLibrary,partofthe PalmerstonNorthCityLibrary

network,deliverstailoredactivities foritscommunity(citylibrary.pncc. govt.nz).Thesevenuesprovide learningopportunitiesandvaluable spacesforsocialconnection. VolunteerCentral,basedin PalmerstonNorthbutservingthe widerdistrict,linksresidentswith localgroupsseekingsupport.Many volunteersassistinFeildingand

Ashhurst,strengtheningthesocial fabricofsmallercommunities. www.volunteercentral.nz

Together,theseserviceshighlight thestrengthofcommunityin Manawatū,whereresourcesare designedtosupportindividuals, families,andneighbourhoodsacross bothcityandtown.

WeprovideFREEinformation, supportandadviceforalltenancy questionsandissues.

Support

toraiseawarenessofDementia PalmerstonNorthonTuesdaySeptember23rd fromtheSoldiersMemorialStatueinTheSquare LevinonWednesday24th fromtheAdventurePark DannevirkeonThursday25th fromtheBrassBandHall FeildingonFriday26th fromtheSoldiersMemorialStatueinManchesterSquare. Allstartat10.30am,pleasewearpurple. Moreinformationatalzheimersmanawatu.org.nz

Weproviderelevantinformationtomeettenants’needsand make appropriatereferralstootheragencies.Where necessary,wecanprovidesupportatTenancyTribunal hearingsormediationmeetings.Wehaveimmeasurable organisationalandcommunityexperienceandmemorywith whichtomobilisehousingsolutionsinallcircumstances.

Advocacy

WemonitortheavailabilityofrentalhousinginPalmerston North.Wemakesubmissionstobothcentralandlocal governmentonissuesandlawsaﬀectingtenants.Wealso supportandparticipateincommunitynetworks.Our coordinatorCameronJenkins&Administrator&DataAnalyst DanielhasaregularspotonManawatūPeoples’Radiocalled ‘FlattingToday’

Education

Weprovideinformationtoindividualsandfamilies,and seminarstoschools,tertiaryinstitutions,andotherinterested partiesabouttherightsandobligationsoftenants,please contactus ifyou’dlikeoneoftheseseminars.Weprovide interviewstolocalandnationalmediaabouthousingissues andrunawarenesscampaignsaboutimportanthousingissues. HancockCommunityHouse 77KingStreet PalmerstonNorth Phone063577435 Email info@mtu.org.nz

CommunityResourcesFeature

WearableHeritage Hemomonātewhanau atTeManawa

Manyofushaveafamily heirloomtuckedawayat home,afamilyphotofrom agenerationpast,atime-honoured familyrecipe,orevenaninherited engagementring.Asanexpression ofherheritage,artistAndreaDaly hascreatedherownheirlooms expressedthroughcontemporary jewellery.Thesecanbeseenaspart oftheupcomingexhibitionHemomo nātewhanau-It’safamilytrait:The 2ndAotearoaJewelleryTriennialat TeManawaMuseum.

Weavingherupbringing throughoutherwork,Dalydrew inspirationfromtalesofIrishfolklore toldbyhergrandfather,nightly bedtimestoriesfromherfather,and hermother’saffinityforpainting.In hernecklaces,Dalyasks—canapiece ofjewellerychangethesensations wemanifestinourmindsand bodies?“Iincludeelementsoftouch… thinkingaboutmeditationandability toslowbreathandcontemplatethe ideasintheworkorjustgainasense ofcalmness”

Thistouch-centricphilosophycan beseeninGreenBird,whichinvites

visitorstoimaginethesensation ofslippingtheirhandsinsideit. Similarly,TheHand,shapedlikean animal’spaw,beckonstobeheld, offeringupthecomfortwemight feelfromholdinghandswithafriend. Dalyadmits“Imadeasmallerversion andoftenhavetostopmyselfgently strokingmyfacewithitsclawswhen thinking”.

HillHouseandTheApplefocusless ontouchandmoreonthetalismanic effectsthatjewellerycanpossess.Hill Houseisstyledasalargependant madeofmetalanddepictsDaly’s childhoodplayanddaydreamsof herfuturehome.Theﬂowerhill representslifeskillslikegardening andfarming,whilethehouse representsbelongingandspace-luxuriesshebelievesareincreasingly sparseintoday’seconomicclimate. Smaller,butequallypotent,The Apple,withitssmallredglass beadsisacautionarytale,which drawsparallelsbetweenChristian mythologyaboutoriginalsin,and theeffectsoftheAppleiPhonein regardtotemptation,inﬂuenceand knowledge.

LOOKINGTOGROWYOURBUSINESS

TheManawatūBusinessChamber iswherebusinesshappens. Wekeepyouinformed,build networksthatkeepyou connected,andprovide advocacythatmakesyou influential. Advocacy BusinessConnections&Referrals CostSavings

YoucanexperienceHemomo nātewhanauatTeManawathis September13th-March1st,2026. Comealongtoexplorethework

offourteendifferentartistsfrom acrossAotearoaNewZealand,who havemadejewellerythatembodies memoryandmeaning. AndreaDaly,HillHouseNecklace,2021. CourtesyoftheartistandtheNational.PhotobyCarylineBoreham

Networking training,WorkshopsandMore Joinatrustedbusinesscommunityrecognised locallyandnationally—whereopportunitiesto grow,learn,andsucceedarealwayswithinreach.

CommunityResourcesFeature

WhySupportingLocalBusiness isMoreImportantThanEver

Inatimeofeconomicuncertaintyandglobal disruption,theimportanceofsupporting localbusinesseshasneverbeenclearer.From yourneighbourhoodcafétotheindependent hardwarestoredowntheroad,theseenterprises aremorethanjustcommercialoperations—they arethebackboneofourcommunities.

Overthepastyear,manylocalbusinesses havefacedunprecedentedchallenges.Inﬂation, risingoperationalcosts,supplychaindisruptions, andstaffshortageshavetestedtheirresilience. Despitethis,theyhavecontinuedtoserveus, employlocals,andinvestinourcitiesandtowns. Theirsurvivalisdirectlylinkedtoourregion’s prosperityandourcollectivequalityoflife.

Whenyoubuylocally,yourmoneystaysinthe community.Itcirculatesthroughlocalwages, localsuppliers,andlocalsponsorships.Small businessesaremorelikelytosupportschool fundraisers,sportsteams,andcommunity initiatives—notbecausetheyhaveto,but becausetheycare.

Moreover,localbusinessesbringdiversityand charactertoourtowns.Theycreateexperiences andrelationshipsthatcan’tbereplicatedbylarge chainsoronlineplatforms.They’realsomore responsivetolocalneedsandbetterpositioned toinnovatebasedoncustomerfeedback.

Asconsumers,wewieldenormouspower. Everypurchaseisavoteforthekindof

communitywewanttolivein.Choosingto supportlocalmighttakealittleextraeffort,but therewards—strongercommunities,morejobs, andgreaterlocalresilience—areworthit.

Thisisnotjustabouteconomics.It’sabout values.It’saboutrecognisingthatthrivinglocal

businesseshelpcreatevibrant,connected, andfuture-focusedcommunities.Let’smake consciouschoicestobackthem—notjust duringhardtimes,butalways.

Becausewhenwesupportlocal,weallwin.

AmandaLinsley-CEO

Barnardosgivingchildren thebestpossiblestart

AtBarnardosAotearoa,theywork togiveeverychildinAotearoa thebestpossiblestartinlife, breakingdownbarriersandstanding alongsidewhānauwhentheyneedit most.Formorethan55years,they’ve supportedtamarikiandwhānauwith thehelptheyneed–whenandwhere theyneedit.

Theyworkacrossearlylearning, communityandsocialservices, reachingmorethan30,000tamariki, rangatahi,andwhānaueachyear.

OurservicesinPalmerstonNorth

BarnardosAotearoaoffersarange ofearlylearningservices,social services,andprogrammesinthe region,includingfreeantenatalclasses, socialworksupportforfamilies experiencingchallengessuchas poverty,familyviolence,neglect,and emotionalabuse,andcentre-based andhome-basedservices.

EarlyLearningCentre

Since1998,BarnardosEarlyLearning CentreinPalmerstonNorthhasbeen dedicatedtoprovidinghigh-quality earlylearningservices.

Recentrenovationsandanew layouthavegiventhemmoreroom foractivitiesindoorsandoutdoors, andtheaddedresourcesencourage differentlearningexperiencesevery day.

Theirsafe,teacher-ledenvironments supporttamarikitogrow,learn, andthrivealongsidetheirwhānau. Theyfocusonnurturingeachchild’s uniqueneeds,helpingthemfeelsafe, supported,andconﬁdenttoexplore.”

Teacher,JadeMillersays,“What IloveaboutourBarnardosEarly Learningisthefamilyatmosphere–it reallyfeelslikeahomeawayfrom home.

“Ourtuakana-teinaapproachmeans youngerandolderchildrenlearn together,fosteringcollaboration, empathy,andcareinourspace.

“BarnardosEarlyLearningempowers tamarikiattheearlieststagesoftheir livesbecausetheybelieveabetter futurestartshere.

“Wehavebabieswhostaywithus untiltheystartschool,andwelove beingpartofthatjourney.Ourkaiako workcloselywithwhānautoensure everychildisnurturedandsupported inasafeandpositivelearning environment.”

Transportisoneofthebiggest barriers

Havingaccesstoavanwould makeasigniﬁcantdifferencefor theirtamariki,especiallyforthose whosewhānaumaynotbeableto affordpetrolorreliabletransport. Avanwouldensurethesechildren couldattendregularly,givingthem consistentaccesstoqualityearly childhoodeducation.

FocusonManawatu

Parliamenthasbeeninrecessthesepasttwoweeks,whichhasmeantmore timetospendinthemightyRangitikeielectorate.Springismostdeﬁnitely intheair–thedaffodilsareblooming,andlambsareinthepaddocks. ItwastimelytomarkDaffodilDayon29Augusttoo–thebrightdaffodil isapowerfulsymbolofhopeforthoseaffectedbycancer:hopeforbetter treatments,brighterfuturesandforlivessaved.

Myﬁrstweekofrecessbeganwithsunshineandafantasticafternoonatthe MasseyUniversitysportsgroundswhereIjoinedsupporterstocheeronthe FAHSFeildingHighSchool1stXV.Theyputonanoutstandingperformance againstHastingsBoys’HighSchool,winning52–26.Theteamnowheadsback totheNZBarbariansTop4Championshipforthesecondyearinarow–an incredibleachievement.Welldonetoeveryoneinvolved.

Duringthesecondweekofrecess,itwasfantastictohostMinisterof Education,HonEricStanford,intheelectorate.TheMinistervisitedlocalschools andmetwithagroupofRangitīkeiPrincipals.

OurgovernmentisambitiousforKiwikids.Wewantthemtobuildstrong educationalfoundationstodothebesttheycanatschoolandbeyond.We movedswiftlytolaunchourMakeItCountMathsActionPlananddelivered onourpromisetomandatestructuredliteracyinallprimaryschools.We’ve introducedaworld-leadingMathsandEnglishcurriculum,puthigh-quality resourcesintoclassrooms,boostedtargetedinterventionsforstudentswho needextrahelp,andmademajorinvestmentsinlearningsupport.

Mostrecently,theMinisterofEducationannouncedthelaunchofanew WritingActionPlan,MakeitWrite,tosuperchargewritingachievement.From Term1nextyear,anewWritingAccelerationToolwillhelp120,000year6–8 studentscatchuponwritingskills.Teacherswillgetsupporttodeliverfocused lessons,trackprogressinrealtimeandadjustteachingtoindividualneeds. EveryIntermediateandSecondarySchoolwillalsoreceivefundingtotraina structuredliteracyinterventionteacher.

YoumayhavealsoheardaboutourproposaltoreplaceNCEAwithnew internationallybenchmarked,nationalqualiﬁcationstobettersetupouryoung peopleupforsuccess.Consultationontheproposalrecentlyclosedwithﬁnal decisionsduebytheendoftheyear.We’reworkinghardoneducationbecause thefutureofourchildrenandourcountrydependonit.

Tokeepuptodatewithmoreofwhat’shappeninginWellingtonandinthe electorate,followmeatfacebook.com/suzeredmaynemporinstagram.com/ suzeredmaynerangitikei.Ifyouhavesomethingtodiscuss,pleaseemailmeat Suze.RedmayneMP@parliament.govt.nzorgivemyFeildingofficeacallon 063237253.

Ifyouhaven’tmetHannahTe Rure,you’veprobablyenjoyed oneofhersuccesses–TheFat FarmertoTheElm,she’sbeenat theheartofsomeofManawatū’s best-lovedeateries.Thesedays,life looksalittledifferentforHannah, herhusbandJade,andtheir childrenOllie(4)andNadia(10 months).

ADay in the Life: Hannah Te Rure

“Anyonewithapreschooler knowsyourdaysaren’tyourown,” Hannahlaughs.Mostmornings startwithJadeheadingtowork whileshewalksOllietokindy, stoppingattheparkwithNadia beforegrabbingcoffee–usually fromtheBee’sKnees,Streetwise, orTheElmifshe’sintown.

Hannahnowworkspart-time forhersisteratNZTravelBrokers, craftingitinerariesfromhome inbetweenthejuggleoffeeds, naps,andplay.Afternoonsare oftenpackedwithswimming, golf,orboxingforOllie,butifthe calendar’sclear,thefamilyenjoys VictoriaEsplanade,MemorialPark, orrainy-dayfavouriteChipmunks.

Weekendsbringmoreofthe same – walks by the lagoon or river,avisittotheHokowhitu FarmersMarket(theThaifood standisamust),andcatchingup withfriendsandfamilyoverBBQs oratlocalfavouritesBarista,Yeda, TheFatFarmer,orforadrink,The Hilltop.

BornandbredinPalmerston North,HannahandJadesay affordability,convenience,and communityspiritkeepthemhere. “Palmypeoplesupporttheirown. Ifyouworkhard,peopleseeitand wanttohelp,”Hannahsays.Their kidsalsoenjoyatasteofrurallife thankstofamilywithafarmjust outsidethecity.

WhileHannah’ssteppedback fromhospitalityfornow,shehints thedoorisn’tclosed.“Neversay never,”shesmiles.“We’vebeen recognisedintheCuisineGood Food Guide– it showspeople outsidetheregionarestartingto seewhatwehavehere.There’s goodfood,andalottooffer.”

Hertoptipforvisitors?

“TimeZone,thendinneratHaru.Or headouttoHīmatangiorFoxton Beach–eventhedoglovesit.” Thisstorywasbroughttoyouby CEDA,viaManawatuNZ.co.nz.

It’snoteveryWednesdaymorningyouseeagroupofknittersposingwith giantinﬂatable“500”numbersbutfortheManawatūCommunityHub Libraries(MCHL),HaveaYarnKnitting&CrochetGroup,thisamazing milestonewasworthcelebrating.

GatheredatTeĀhuruMōwai,thegroupcelebratedtheir500thhandmade donationsinceJanuarythisyear,supportinglocalcausessuchasManchester HouseSocialServices,theNeonatalUnitatPalmerstonNorthHospital,and theCancerSocietyforDaffodilDay.

“I’veworkedwiththegroupfromthestartandlovetheworktheydo,” saidJennyWebb,LibraryExperienceRepresentative.“Theskill,care,and generositytheybringeachweekisinspiring.”Jennyhasmeticulously documentedeachitemthatthegrouphasmadeanddonatedovertime.

Thedonationincludessmocktops,cardigans,vests,hats,blankets,andeven teddybears.aEachonecarefullymadeanddestinedforsomeoneinneed.

ThegroupmeetseveryWednesdaymorningfrom10amtonoon.Youwill findthisiswhereconversationflowsaseasilyastheknittingneedlesclick. Manymemberssayit’sasmuchaboutthefriendshipsasthefinisheditems.

Withthemilestonereached,theknittersareputtingoutacallfordonations of4plyor8plyyarn(wooloracrylic)andbuttons.100%woolisparticularly soughtafterforprematureandnewbornbabyitems.

“Everyballofwoolwereceiveturnsintosomethinguseful,”aHaveaYarn memberexplained,“andit’snicetothinkourworkbringswarmcomfortto others.”

Ifyouwouldliketodonatewoolorbuttons,pleasedropthemattheMCHL frontdesk.Betteryet,jointhegroupandthecause,everyoneiswelcome.

HandledwithCare: SafetyGetsanUpgrade

Arecentupgradetothe25-metrepoolatMakinoAquaticCentre(MAC) ismakingameaningfuldifferenceforswimmerswithlimitedmobility.A secondstainlesssteelhandrailhasbeenaddedalongsidetheexisting ramp,providingdualsupportpointsforusersenteringorexitingthewater.

Theimprovementdirectlyaddressestheneedsofamputees,olderadults, andresidentsfromcarefacilities—manyofwhomrequireextraassistance, includinghoistingoraquaticwheelchairs.Withthesecondrailnowinplace, theseuserscanbeguidedintothewatermoresafelyandcomfortablyusing MAC’spool-friendlywheelchairsthatrolldirectlydowntheramp.

“Thisisn’tjustasmallfeature—it’savitalimprovement,”saystheAquatic ServicesManager.“Wewanteveryonewhovisitstofeelconﬁdentthatthe poolisbothaccessibleandsafe.”

Thenewrailalsoactsasastabilityaidforthoseusingwalkingsticksor walkersandhelpsreducetheriskofslipsandfalls.Itservesanaddedfunction asavisualandphysicalbarrier,deterringchildrenfromjumpingintoanondesignatedarea.

Tosupportseamlesstransitionsbetweenlandandwater,brightchairshave alsobeenplacedneartheramp,offeringswimmersaconvenientspotto leavepersonalitems—particularlyhelpfulduringaquaaerobicsclasseswhere mobilitylevelsvarywidely.

Thoughsubtle,thehandrailisapowerfulsymbolofMAC’songoing commitmenttoinclusion.“We’refocusedonremovingbarriers—one improvementatatime,”saysFlanders.

Formany,thenewhandrailoffersmorethanphysicalsupport;it’saquiet reassurancethattheyarewelcome,safe,andencouragedtotakepart

Hip-hopduoadd‘ﬁzz’toFoxton

ByRichardMays

Ifyou’redrivingSH1throughFoxton, you’llnoticethatthetown’sRainbow Dairyisboastingbrightnewartwork. Thebigboldﬂash‘splash’onthemain roadpremisesiscourtesyofMakingA StatementartistKingCass.

Themultimediaandhip-hopperformer akaHunterWilsonoriginallyfrom Christchurch,hasteamedupwiththe creativedirectorofFoxton’sMakingA StatementEntertainment,DilzHailwood (akaDillonLamb)tounleashlocal creativityacrossmultipleplatforms.

Whilesomeofthatcreativitynow featuresprominentlyontheRainbow Dairyfrontage,other‘statements’are beingmadeinDilz’Foxtonrecording studio.There’salsohismentalhealth andmusic-focusedpodcasts,along withtheapparellinesavailablethrough hisMainStFoxtonstoreandonthe makingastatement.co.nzwebsite.

PalmyartsambassadorShaun KaycameacrossDilzandCassat aNewStageProductionsDareTo ShineManawatūtalentquestheldin PalmerstonNorthduringAugustatthe ChurchStNgaireNgatuereAuditorium. Kaywastakenwiththeduo’stalent, attitudeanddrive.

“Itwastheﬁrsttimewe’dused propsandlightinglikethatinatheatre performance,”Dilzsays.Hewas encouragedbythefeedbackthey receivedandthepotentialforcombining liveperformanceandtheatricality.

DilzandCasswhohaveknown eachotherforaboutﬁveyears,are collaboratingonSayLess–aneighttrackalbummasteredbyKogStudio’s ChrisChetlandandmixedintheMaking AStatementstudio.

“SayLessisaboutthejourneyanartist goesthrough-thesacriﬁcesyouhaveto makeandtheimpactsthathasonfamily,” Dilzsays.“Thetitleisaboutlettingthe musicspeakforitself.”

Theduoisplanninganalbumlaunch tourintheNewYear.Beforethatthough, there’llbelocalperformancesduringthe annualFoxtonSpringFlingonLabour DayMondayattheendofOctober.

That’stobefollowedbyNovember’sTe AwahouMinifest–acommunityMainSt celebrationthatDilzinstigatedin2024. Thecommunitydayofentertainment andgiveawayswillgiveFoxtonlocalsan opportunityto‘ﬁzz’duringtheﬁlming ofamusicvideobeingcreatedto accompanytheSayLessalbumlaunch.

ATASTEOFVIETNAM

Culture,Colour&Cuisine–SayXinChàotoVietnam Wearethrilledtounveilour brand-newitinerary for2026’sATaste ofVietnam–ajourneyfilledwithboldflavours,culturalconnection, andunforgettablemoments.

DriftthroughthestunninglimestonekarstsofHaLongandLanHaBay ona3-dayluxurycruise,completewithkayaking,onboardrelaxation, andincrediblescenery.WhizzthroughthebackstreetsofHanoiby open-airjeep,exploreancienttombsandbustlingmarketsinHueby scooter,andridethescenicHaiVanPass–oneoftheworld’smost breathtakingdrives.InHoiAn,enjoyahands-oncookingclasswith localchefs,thendiveintoSaigon’sbuzzingnightlifeonathrillingstreet foodtourbyscooter.You’llalsocyclethroughtheremoteVietHaiVillage, visittheCuChiTunnelsvialuxuryspeedboat,anduncoverthesoulof southernVietnamwithadayofdiscoveryintheMekongDelta. Perfectfortravellersseekingmorethanjustsightseeing–this tourisimmersive,vibrant,andcraftedtodelightallthesenses.

3May2026

Property Brokers shines at 2025 REINZ Awards with multiple honours

We are thrilled to share the exciting news that Property Brokers has again made a signiﬁcant mark at the REINZ Awards for Excellence This year we were honoured to be the most nominated real estate company in New Zealand, being named ﬁnalists in 19 categories across multiple key disciplines and divisions and winning four awards on the night Further solidifying our position as real estate industry leaders.

Palmerston North Property Manager, Jesse Walker, was honoured to be named Residential Property Manager Rising Star of the Year, highlighting his exceptional determination skills and high level of service to his landlords and tenants during his ﬁrst year in the Property Management industry

We’re equally proud to be a ﬁnalist again for Large Agency of the Year (All Disciplines) and to be recognised as the only provincial real estate agency to contribute over one million dollars annually to our communities, charities and sports clubs, supporting over 550 organisations across regional New Zealand as the runner up of the Large Community Service Award which includes our contributions to the Cancer Society, Grassroots Trust Rescue Helicopter, Race to the Brewery, Jets Basketball and multiple schools sports clubs and many more organisations

“We’re ﬁercely proud of the standard of service we deliver every day and to have that recognised on a national stage amongst our peers is incredibly rewarding, said Guy Mordaunt, Managing Director, Property Brokers

The 2025 REINZ Awards for Excellence awarded 46 prizes to real estate professionals from all sectors, spotlighting the incredible talent and dedication within New Zealand’s real estate industry

Winning these awards is more than just a moment of recognition; it’s a celebration of our collective hard work and a reﬂection of the values that drive us daily As a proudly locally owned and operated Kiwi business with over 90 locations across regional New Zealand we remain committed to delivering exceptional real estate services, continuing our journey of innovation and excellence, and proudly supporting our communities

Thiscouncilelection,you’rechoosingthemayorandcouncillorswho willleadourcity-anddecidingthefutureof Māoriwards.

YourvoteshapesPalmyforyou,yourfamily,andfuturegenerations -fromtheparks,roadsandfacilitieswealluse,tohowMāoriare representedattheCounciltable. Beheard.Bepartofit.

VOTINGFROM9SEPTTO12PM,11OCT

SchoolHoliday

Thewordisout!

NZME’smonthly publication

“Manawatu”is gainingrecognition,and thisweekMPBrookevan Veldenvisitedtheteamin PalmerstonNorthtosee whatthebuzzwasabout.

AsMinisterforWorkplace RelationsandSafety,van Veldenwasalsointhe regiontoofficiallylaunch theApprovedCodeofPractice(ACOP)forForestryandHarvesting Operations,amajorstepforwardfortheforestryindustry.

Thisnewforestrycodeispartofawiderpackageofhealthand safetyreformsannouncedearlierthisyear,designedtoreduce criticalrisks,improveclarityforbusinesses,andprovidestronger supportforhigh-risksectors.

ApprovedCodesofPracticearepractical,sector-specific guidelinesthathelpworkersandemployerscomplywiththeir healthandsafetyduties.TheforestryACOPwasdeveloped collaborativelybyWorkSafe,forestrycompanies,andworkers, withtheaimofreducingfatalitiesandseriousinjuriesinthesector. Theguidelinesaretailoredtoaddressthespecificchallenges forestryworkersface,providingclear,practicalstepsratherthan one-size-fitsallapproach.

TheGovernmentalsoplanstorolloutsimilarACOPsforother industriesincludingagriculture,manufacturing,andconstruction. Eachcodewillbeindustry-driven,ensuringtheguidancereﬂects real-worldneedsandrisks.

“Wewanttoworkwithindustrytocreatecodesofpracticethat arerealisticandeffective,”saidMinistervanVelden.“Thegoalis tomakehealthandsafetylawsclearerandsimplerwhileactually improvingworkplacesafety.”

WhileinManawatū,theMinisteralsometwithlocalbusinesses todiscussconﬁdence,growth,andfuturejobopportunitiesinthe region.

TRADESANDSERVICES

ManawatūPeople’sRadio WelcomesDrPeterCleave ONZMasPatron

TereoIrirangiongātāngataoManawatū,ManawatūPeople’s Radio(MPR)isdelightedtoannouncethatDrPeterCleave, anOfficeroftheNewZealandOrderofMerit(ONZM),has acceptedtheroleofPatronofthestation.

DrCleaveiswidelyrecognisedforhislongstandingservice toeducation,communitydevelopment,andthearts.Hisdeep connectionwiththeManawatūregionandhistirelessadvocacy forgrassrootsvoicesmakehimaninspiringadditiontoMPR’s whānau.

DrMargieComrie,ChairpersonoftheManawatūAccessMediaCharitableTrust,the governorsofMPR,isthrilledattheappointment.

“DrCleavewasawiseandcompassionatevoiceonourTrustBoard.We’rehonoured towelcomehimbackasourﬁrstpatronandknowhewillsupportinformingcloser bondswithourmanawhenuaandwidercommunity.”

“MPRexiststoamplifythediversevoicesofourcommunity,”saysFraserGreig, KaiwhakahaereatManawatūPeople’sRadio.“HavingsomeoneofDrCleave’scalibre andreputationasourPatronisbothanhonourandavoteofconﬁdenceintheworkwe doeveryday.”

DrCleave’sappointmentasPatronreﬂectshisbeliefinstrong,engagingcommunity mediaasapowerfultoolforcommunityconnection,storytelling,andinclusion.

“ItgivesmegreatpleasuretoacceptthehonourofbeingPatronfortheManawatū AccessMediaCharitableTrust.”SaysDrCleave.“Thestationinvolved,MPR,isatreasurein ourcommunityandIlookforwardtomyinvolvementinbothstationandboardmatters.”

AsPatron,DrCleavewillactasanadvocateandsupporterforMPR,helpingto promoteitsmissionandstrengthenitstiesacrosstheManawatūandbeyond. AboutManawatūPeople’sRadio

TereoirirangiongātāngataoManawatū,ManawatūPeople’sRadio(MPR)isan AccessMediastationservingManawatūandsurroundingdistricts,empowering individualsandgroupsinourcommunitytocreatecontentthatreﬂectstheirviews, values,hobbies,passionsandcultures.Withover70showsinmorethan12languages, MPRgivesvoicetothediversepeopleandcommunitiesoftheregion.

preservesyourcar’soriginalpaintandvalue

WORDSEARCH FOOTINGIT

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3LETTERS

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OGRES OKAPI PIANO RENDS RENEW REPAY SHAMS SLIPS SPAWN STEWS TASTE TENET TITAN TROTH UPPER VINYL WEEPS

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Manawatū What’sOn

September/Mahuru2025

VOTING

LocalGovernmentElections –Pollingisopenfrom TuesdaySeptember9until12noonOctober11. Infovote.nz/local-elections/

EXHIBITIONS

-UNTILSEPTEMBER21:

RegionalEmbroideryExhibition:RoadTrips -tomarkthe openingofTeAhuaTuranga,10am–5pm,TeManawaArt Gallery,326MainSt.Infotemanawa.co.nz,063555000

-UNTILSEPTEMBER30:

RarauMai:OraTeToi2025-HikiHaiki/TheMeaningof Home -anexpressionofwhatitmeanstohaveasenseof homewithinanewcountry/ KarenSeccombe&LorraineBarnett;SerenaMercer, GlassArtist; Ngātahi-Rīhari&MarkWarnock -FREE.9am–5pm Monday–Friday,SquareEdgeCommunityArts,47The Square.Infocommunityarts.org.nz/ PERFORMANCES

THURSDAYSEPTEMBER4

NorthernClusterArtsFestival–Schools’concert,gold coinkoha,1pm,RegentonBroadway.Inforegent.co.nz/ shows,063502100.

FRIDAYSEPTEMBER5

NewZealandBlues,Roots&GrooveFestival–Happy HourwithKarenClarkeFoyerQueen, FREE,5.30pm, GlobeTheatre,312MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz, 063514409.

NewZealandBlues,Roots&GrooveFestival–Kevin Downing’s101LabBand&SamuelFlynnScott, 7.30pm, GlobeTheatre,312MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz,06351 4409.

DonalGunning&TheBucks-ZeroBucksGiven-EP releasetour,withtheBadSchematics,8pm,TheStomach 84LombardSt,Infofacebook.com/TheStomach.NZ,06 3590120

SATURDAYSEPTEMBER6

NewZealandBlues,Roots&GrooveFestival–Bent HorseshoeRecordFair, 11am–2pm; BenWilcock Trio,1pm; ShaunKirk,2.45pm;BluesClues, 4.30pm; Doppellooper,6.15pm; TheReclinerRockers,8pm,Globe Theatre,312MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz,063514409.

RimiTomyLive withthePalmerstonNorthKerala Association,6pm,RegentonBroadway.Inforegent.co.nz/ shows,063502100.

Bitter,TwistedandonTap-CountryComedyTour, R18, 8pm,FeildingHotel,ManchesterSquare.Info063234134.

FATHERSDAYSUNDAYSEPTEMBER7

NewZealandBlues,Roots&GrooveFestival,FINAL. SundayLadySunday: KarenClarkeBluesWoman1pm; CarolBeanEnsemble 2.30pm; TwoBluesyBlondes4.30pm,Globe2,312MainSt.Info globetheatre.co.nz,063514409.

SundayScriptSessions 2/3,7pm,CentrepointTheatre, ChurchSt.Infocentrepoint.co.nz,063545740.

TUESDAYSEPTEMBER9–POLLINGOPENS FORLOCALGOVERNMENTELECTIONS

SchubertOctetwithArohaQuartet&Friends,7.30pm, PathwaysStAndrew’sPresbyterianChurch,388ChurchSt. Infopathwayspresbyterianchurch.nz/,063580884.

WEDNESDAYSEPTEMBER10

LastNightoftheProms–OperatunityDaytimeConcerts, 11am,NewLifeChurch,590FeatherstonSt,Roslyn.Info operatunity.co.nz/

KevinBloodyWilson–‘AussieIcon’tour,7.30pm,Regent onBroadway.Inforegent.co.nz/shows,063502100.

THURSDAYSEPTEMBER11

UndertheLamp:YouthNightOpenMic –coordinatedby JonClarkforprimaryandintermediateschool-agemusos, 6pm,TheStomach,84LombardSt,Infofacebook.com/ underthelampnz/,facebook.com/TheStomach.NZ, 063590120.

DisneyAliceinWonderlandJr–NewburySchool production,6pm,RegentonBroadway.Inforegent.co.nz/ shows,063502100.

Disenchanted!–theMusical producedforthe CollaborativeTheatreGroup,7.30pm,GlobeTheatre,312 MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz,063514409.

FRIDAYSEPTEMBER12

Disenchanted!–theMusicalproducedforthe CollaborativeTheatreGroup,7.30pm,GlobeTheatre,312 MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz,063514409.

Select–theFootnoteDanceCompany,7pm,Regenton Broadway.Inforegent.co.nz/shows,063502100.

FeedbacktheFoodbankwithPersimmon,SPG,BEEF andMixedMessages. EntryX4non-perishablefooditems, 8pm,TheStomach,84LombardSt,Infofacebook.com/ TheStomach.NZ,063590120

SATURDAYSEPTEMBER13

Fabric-a-BracPalmy –ArohanuiHospicefundraiser withsewingandupholsteryfabric,textiles,patterns, haberdashery,10am–1pm,Crossroads,ChurchSt.Info fabricabrac.com/palmy-2

PalmerstonNorthMāoriWardDrop-inSession –1-3pm, CentralLibraryMezzanineFloor,GeorgeSt/TheSquare. Infopncc.govt.nz/events

DistortionFestival5 ft13livebandsfrom4pm,Speedway Garage,528MainSt.InfoRailtix.net,Eventbrite.co.nz, speedwaygaragepalmy.co.nz/

Disenchanted!–theMusical FINAL,producedforthe CollaborativeTheatreGroup,2pm&7.30pm,GlobeTheatre, 312MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz,063514409.

Bach’sMagniﬁcat–RenaissanceGold,50thanniversary season.RenaissanceSingers,ManawatūSinfoniaand soloistsconductedbyChristineArcher-Lockwood,7pm, CathedraloftheHolySpirit,BroadwayAve.Infofacebook. com/RenaissanceSingersPalmerstonNorth/ The90’sRockShow –8pm,TheRoyalHotel,44Rangitīkei St.Infothenewroyalhotelpapaioea.com/0220331075.

RĀTAPUMAHURU14–TERĀOTEREOMĀORI

OnstageManawatū playstheManawatūJazzClub,5pm, WillowParkTavern,820TremaineAve,Roslyn. Infomjc.org.nz

SundayScriptSessions 3/3,7pm,CentrepointTheatre, ChurchSt.Infocentrepoint.co.nz,063545740.

SikaSoundJourney –7.30pm,EvelynRawlinsRoom, SquareEdgeCommunityArts,47TheSquare.Info communityarts.org.nz/

TEWIKIOTEREOMĀORIMAHURU15–21

RĀHINAMAHURU15

SirDavidHattenscarf –CollegeStreetNormalSchool production,1/2,5.30pm. KiwiTrailTales –CollegeStreetNormalSchool production,2/2,RegentonBroadway.Inforegent.co.nz/ shows,063502100.

RĀTŪMAHURU16

WorkshoponShakyPlaces byFeliciaEdgecumbewith thePalmerstonNorthChoralSociety,7.30pm,StPeter’s Church,RuahineSt.Infopnchoral.org.nz

RĀAPAMAHURU17

GuyDonaldsonPiano,12.15pm,PathwaysSt Andrew’sPresbyterianChurch,388ChurchSt.Info pathwayspresbyterianchurch.nz/,063580884.

SpringShow-Rongotea&DistrictHorticultural& ProduceSociety,1pm–3.45pm,TeKawauMemorial RecreationCentre,WyeSt.Infofacebook.com/ rongoteahorticulturalsociety

VickiLee&ErnaFerry –2pm,AllSaintsCommunity Centre,338ChurchSt.Infoinfo@citymission.co.nz, 063551204.

NgāTaeoHineKorako –RussellStreetSchoolproduction, 6pm,RegentonBroadway.Inforegent.co.nz/shows, 063502100.

LocalBodyElections:MayoralCandidateDebate2025 –FREE,6.30pm,GlobeTheatre,312MainSt. Infopncc.govt.nz/News-Events/ RĀPAREMAHURU18

TikiTour –AokautereSchoolpresentation,6pmRegent onBroadway.Inforegent.co.nz/shows,063502100.

LadiesNight –NewStageProductions,R18,7.30pm, NgaereNgatuereAuditorium,391ChurchSt.Info newstageproductions.com

SeventhWonderperformsFleetwoodMac,8pm,Globe Theatre,312MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz,063514409.

RĀMEREMAHURU19 – SUFFRAGEDAY PNDADanceFestival, 1/6,solo,groupand championship-6pm,RegentonBroadway.Inforegent. co.nz/shows,063502100.

LadiesNight –NewStageProductions,R18,7.30pm, NgaereNgatuereAuditorium,391ChurchSt.Info newstageproductions.com

ReturntotheLeopardLounge –BoomBoomRoom Burlesque,8pm,GlobeTheatre,312MainSt.Info globetheatre.co.nz,063514409.

RĀHOROIMAHURU20

PNDADanceFestival, 2/6,solo,groupand championship–8.30am,1pm,6pmsessions,Regenton Broadway.Inforegent.co.nz/shows,063502100.

DoubleClickDanceBand –1-4pm,CossieClub,22 LintonSt.Infopncossieclub.co.nz/what-s-on, 063576022.

LadiesNight –NewStageProductions,R18,2pm& 7.30pm,NgaereNgatuereAuditorium,391ChurchSt. Infonewstageproductions.com

RĀTAPUMAHURU21

PNDADanceFestival, 3/6,solo,groupand championship–8.30am,1pm,6pmsessions,Regenton Broadway.Inforegent.co.nz/shows,063502100.

RenéeTheréseAlbumReleaseConcert with SophieToyne,2pm,GlobeTheatre,312MainSt.Info globetheatre.co.nz,063514409.

MONDAYSEPTEMBER22

PNDADanceFestival, 4/6,solo,groupand championship–8.30am,1pm,6pmsessions,Regenton Broadway.Inforegent.co.nz/shows,063502100.

ImaginationStation –improvinteractivestorytelling withLeona,Alan,andAlexia,11am,CentrepointTheatre, ChurchSt.Infocentrepoint.co.nz,063545740.

TUESDAYSEPTEMBER23

PNDADanceFestival, 5/6,solo,groupand championship–8.30am,1pm,6pmsessions,Regenton Broadway.Inforegent.co.nz/shows,063502100.

ImaginationStation –improvinteractivestorytelling withLeona,Alan,andAlexia,11am,CentrepointTheatre, ChurchSt.Infocentrepoint.co.nz,063545740.

Cinderella byThePantoloons,11am&1pm,Globe Theatre,312MainSt.Infothepantoloons.com/, globetheatre.co.nz,063514409.

WEDNESDAYSEPTEMBER24

PNDADanceFestival, 6/6,solo,groupand championship–8.30amsession,Gala1pm,Gala7pm, RegentonBroadway.Inforegent.co.nz/shows,06350 2100.

ImaginationStation –improvinteractivestorytelling withLeona,Alan,andAlexia,11am,CentrepointTheatre, ChurchSt.Infocentrepoint.co.nz,063545740.

THURSDAYSEPTEMBER25

ImaginationStation –improvinteractivestorytelling withLeona,Alan,andAlexia,11am,CentrepointTheatre, ChurchSt.Infocentrepoint.co.nz,063545740.

LadiesNight –NewStageProductions,R18,7.30pm, NgaereNgatuereAuditorium,391ChurchSt.Info newstageproductions.com

FRIDAYSEPTEMBER26

ImaginationStation –FINAL,improvinteractive storytellingwithLeona,Alan,andAlexia,11am,Centrepoint Theatre,ChurchSt.Infocentrepoint.co.nz,063545740.

LadiesNight–NewStageProductions,R18,7.30pm, NgaereNgatuereAuditorium,391ChurchSt.Info newstageproductions.com

CowboyDan:DreamsThatFeellikeFalling,Aotearoa albumtour,8pm,TheStomach,84LombardSt,Info facebook.com/TheStomach.NZ,063590120

SATURDAYSEPTEMBER27

CircusofIllusion–MagicShowftJoelFenton2pm, RegentonBroadway.Inforegent.co.nz/shows,063502100.

MakeBelieve –playstheCossieClub,7.30pm,22LintonSt. Infopncossieclub.co.nz/what-s-on,063576022.

Albi&TheWolves-the‘Fun-Raiser’tour,7.30pm,Globe Theatre,312MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz,063514409.

LadiesNight–NewStageProductions,R18,FINAL, 7.30pm,NgaereNgatuereAuditorium,391ChurchSt.Info newstageproductions.com

SUNDAYSEPTEMBER28–CLOCKS FORWARD:DAYLIGHTSAVINGCOMMENCES

SundayMatineeSeries:ChrisDann&Friends,$5+koha, 2.30pm,GlobeTheatre,MainSt.Infoglobetheatre.co.nz, 063514409.

‘FROCKTOBER’–OVARIANCANCER AWARENESSMONTH. INFOFROCKTOBER.ORG.NZ

WEDNESDAYOCTOBER1–INTERNATIONAL DAYOFOLDERPERSONS

DisneyHighSchoolMusicalJr–SixtoSixtyMusical Theatre,6pm,GlobeTheatre,312MainSt.Infosixtosixtynz. com/globetheatre.co.nz,063514409.

THURSDAYOCTOBER2

DisneyHighSchoolMusicalJr –SixtoSixtyMusical Theatre,1pm&6pm,GlobeTheatre,312MainSt.Info sixtosixtynz.com/globetheatre.co.nz,063514409.

FRIDAYOCTOBER3

FeildingRuralDay–FREEentry,10am–3pm,Manchester Square,Feilding.Info:FeildingandDistrictPromotioniSite 063233318.

DisneyHighSchoolMusicalJr–SixtoSixtyMusical Theatre,1pm&6pm,GlobeTheatre,312MainSt.Info sixtosixtynz.com/globetheatre.co.nz,063514409.

BeatGirls-It’sMyParty, ManchesterHouse50s-ﬂavoured fundraiser,3pm&7.45pm,FeildingCivicCentre,84Aorangi St.Infofeildingciviccentre.org.nz/

ShellieHanley goesSpanishfor23rdLatinAmerican &SpainFilmFestopening,FREE,6pm,EventCinemas, Broadway.Infocitylibrary.pncc.govt.nz,eventcinemas. co.nz.

MusicalMadness! –PalmyDragFestdancepartywith DJKitaMean,7.30pm,GlobeTheatre,312MainSt.Info globetheatre.co.nz,063514409.

SATURDAYOCTOBER4

DisneyHighSchoolMusicalJr–SixtoSixtyMusical Theatre,FINAL,1pm,GlobeTheatre,312MainSt.Info sixtosixtynz.com/globetheatre.co.nz,063514409. PalmyDragFest–8pm,RegentonBroadway.Inforegent. co.nz/shows,063502100.

Disclaimer:Harcourt’sWhat’sOnisanattempttocorralamonth’sworthof regionalManawatūshows,performances,festivals,communityandcultural eventsforeasyday-by-dayreference. Itdoesnotclaimtobedeﬁnitive. Whileeveryefforthasbeenmadetoaccuratelylisteventstheirvenuesand times,patronsareadvisedtocheckforanyadditions,changes,cancellations andpostponements. NB:Unlesstherearespecialcircumstances-sportingevents;movies; workshops;classes;religiousorspiritualsessionsandservices;public meetingsandaddresses;productpromotions,presentationsandlaunches willbeexcluded. ForconsiderationofaFREElisting,emailgotolist@gmail.comwithabrief eventdescriptionincludingplace,dates,timesandcontactdetailsby20thof themonthpriortotheevent. PreparedbyLookOut!Communications.

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