Lizard News November 2017

Lizard News NOVEMBER 2017

FREE LOCAL NEWS... IN THE COMMUNITY

AONGATETE • ŌMOKOROA • PAHOIA • TE PUNA • WHAKAMĀRAMA

More inside: Pavilion cash boost

Quarryfest nears

Sailing on to summer

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AONGATETE • ŌMOKOROA PAHOIA • TE PUNA WHAKAMĀRAMA

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Permits needed for summer fire season he restricted rural fire season for summer 2017/18 has started and extends from 1st October until 30th April 2018.

Permits are now needed to burn dried vegetative matter in the open air and household rubbish in the Western Bay District and Tauranga City rural areas.

The purpose of the restricted season is to reduce the incidence of uncontrolled vegetation fires in rural areas. Permits are only withheld when weather conditions make burning too dangerous. Failure to hold a permit can result in prosecution.

Permits are issued by Pumicelands on behalf of Fire and Emergency NZ (FENZ) and can be applied for online, at no

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charge, through Western Bay of Plenty District Council: www.pumicelands.co.nz The permit is only valid if it is signed by the person responsible for the fire and that person must be in possession of the permit at the time of burning.

Permits are essential year-round for all open air fires in rural areas and Matakana and Rangiwaea Islands, with no fire permits issued for the beach reserves.

Mayor Island (Tūhua) is under a total fire ban year-round.

FENZ Deputy Principal Rural Fire Officer Alan Pearce asks people to use common sense and if in doubt about lighting a fire, to contact the authority regarding conditions.

Armed police in Whakamārama

1/8 page $150

By Matthew Farrell lar local people, who usually stop here wo people were due to appear in for a coffee or a pie before work. We the Tauranga District Court after weren’t able to take our usual milk delivarmed police carried out what was ery and the busiest part of our day was described as a routine pre-planned gone,” says Gursharan. search warrant behind the superette in The glass sliding door at the front of Whakamārama. the D’lish takeaway had been shattered A 31-year-old-man was arrested on to allow the property to be searched, apcharges relating to drugs, and receiving parently due to it being cross-leased stolen property. An 18-year-old woman with the property behind. was arrested on drugs charges.

A police spokesperson later said there Barrett Road was blocked by a patrol wasn't any danger to the public. AOS ofcar from about half-past six to 10 o'clock ficers left the scene shortly after 10 o'on Thursday 28th September while the clock, followed by the One News and Armed Offenders Squad assisted police Newshub camera operators. staff.

Earlier reports elsewhere in the media Two officers with rifles prevented mentioned two explosions. The noise is northbound vehicles from turning off understood to have been made by a couState Highway 2 or entering the parking ple of "flash-bang" distraction devices, area in front of the convenience store. used by Police to gain entry to properties A worker there, Gursharan Deep in similar circumstances.

Singh, says they’d only been open for a few minutes when the Police arrived.

“It’s pretty unusual. I was surprised. They covered the whole area and asked us to stay inside. We could hear them calling out the back,” he says.

“We had no customers for three and a half hours. We lost a lot of trade from our regu- Barrett Road was blocked off, as AOS officers searched a property.

1/4 page $250

Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade

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By CFO Ian Blunt

t has been a quiet fortnight for the Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade, with only two callouts. The first on Friday 13th around midday saw the Brigade respond to a large chipping machine on fire in Wainui South Road, at the bottom of an orchard. Access was limited; Katikati Fire Brigade's smaller tanker was attached and extinguished the fire. The following night around 11 pm, the Brigade was called to a roadside

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fire in Ōmokoroa Road. The small metre by metre fire was extinguished quickly.

The Ōmokoroa First Responders also had a quiet fortnight responding twice on Wednesday the 11th. Both calls were to Harbour View Road, but different locations. The first to a person suffering from dehydration and the later to an elderly lady who had fallen and injured herself. The team was called to Fresh Choice supermarket but was stood down just as they were about to leave the Station.

INTERESTED IN HELPING YOUR COMMUNITY? The Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade requires more FIREFIGHTERS and personnel for the MEDICAL FIRST RESPONSE TEAM. Full training is given, driving courses are mandatory, full uniform provided.

Community minded? Come and join this dedicated team in Ōmokoroa.

Please call CFO Ian Blunt 0274 599 478 or DCFO Simon Priest 0274 366 265.

“Even with a permit, people must obey the requirements around safety and fire management including having water available, locating the fire in a vegetationfree area well away from buildings and having someone supervising the fire at all times. If in doubt – don’t burn, or put it out!” says Alan.

Alan says fires are a valid land management tool in safe conditions, but if a blaze gets out of control, the person responsible can be held accountable for any damage caused.

Permits take two working days to process, are not issued after hours, and on occasion the burn site may require inspection before a permit is authorised and issued.

Article supplied.

Take extra care behind the wheel

By Paul Wrigley Community Constable ow that the finer weather is upon us, plenty of people are into a healthier lifestyle, which means more residents out and about exercising early in the mornings and into the evenings. Also, kids are more likely to be riding bikes in driveways and scootering around in cul-de-sacs.

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The Police ask you to be mindful when reversing, using shared driveways and watching for pedestrians and lowering your speed in residential streets where kids may run out chasing a ball. We have had one incident already when an older person was knocked over by a reversing vehicle, and nobody wants to be involved in an unfortunate accident where a vehicle hits a child.

Also, car use goes up in the summer, with people heading out on the weekends to shop and go to the beach. Peak periods around lunchtime can be a nightmare when we are trying to get somewhere. Tauranga is no longer the sleepy coastal town it once was.

Please take an extra look at intersections and crush the urge to run the orange light. The potential for a mistake during busy traffic flow is much more increased, as there are many more distractions.

Finally, avoid unnecessary distractions, such as the temptation to send that quick text, or muck around with the car stereo or air conditioning while you are moving. Christmas is on the way.

Facing a traffic conviction or a disqualification, because you caused a nose-totail collision while distracted, isn’t worth it.

Lizard News

is a member of the NZ Community Newspapers Association

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TECT to support pavilion

Specials swing it for Labour

By Matthew Farrell ay of Plenty has joined those electorates around the country where locals are fortunate enough to have more than one voice at the House of Representatives.

It’s been a whirlwind few weeks for Labour’s Angie Warren-Clark following a general election which produced several exciting numbers for the 52nd NZ Parliament.

For a start, 47% of all votes cast were advance votes. The game changer for New Zealand First turned out to be 384,000 special votes, which made up 15% of the total vote.

The specials include those who enrolled during the advance voting period. This year, people could register at the same time as placing their vote. Specials are also those where people cast their vote outside of their electorate, or from overseas.

“A week is a long time in politics” is a quote usually attributed to British Labour Prime Minister Harold Wilson in the mid-1960s. It has become an idiom meaning a lot of change can happen in politics, in a short space of time.

On Saturday 7th October, Angie Warren-Clark learned the special votes had got her over the line as Labour’s 39th list MP. She joined party colleagues, Tauranga’s Jan Tinetti and Waiariki’s Tāmati Coffey, at the Beehive.

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Then, although this isn’t a Shakespearean comedy, it was on the Twelfth Night after that she learned she was not only going to Wellington - her party was going to Government.

“I’ve resigned from Tauranga Women's Refuge, but they’ve prepared for that so it’ll be business as usual. My term as the Tauranga President of Zonta (the women's empowerment organisation) ends in November, so that will have a natural conclusion too,” she says.

With a background as a lawyer, a Greenpeace member and a passionate fisherwoman Angie is confident she brings a variety of skills to the table.

“I’m passionate about family violence, child poverty and gender pay equality. I have been employed

by Work and Income, ACC and the Ministry of Justice. It’s important for society for us to have a mix of career politicians and real grassroots people like me, who know what it’s like out in the world,” says Angie.

After slicing just over 1,000 votes from National’s majority in Bay of Plenty, Mrs Warren-Clark says she intends to hold clinics in Ōmokoroa and elsewhere in the Western Bay. “We’re a small but hearty Labour team. We have to be pragmatic, but I love the Ōmokoroa community. I have been there in my Refuge role and always had a lot of support.”

By Matthew Farrell ECT has granted $400,000 towards the $1.2m Western Avenue pavilion in the latest Community Amenities funding round. It’s the first significant financial boost for the project.

The grant is conditional on Ōmokoroa Sports & Recreation raising the rest of the money within 12 months. The next major funder to be approached will be Lotteries, which opens for applications next March.

The chair of the Incorporated Society, Tim Maurice, says the District Council and Community Board have pledged $100,000 each. Sports & Rec has raised $50,000 from the community so far, with this year’s Coastal Challenge fundraiser about to take place.

“We need Lotteries to come in at some level. BayTrust funding doesn’t become available to applicants until September 2018, which is when we’re looking to start construction; the end of next winter,” he says.

Tim says other funders will be approached, but tend to grant much smaller amounts. He says Sports & Rec are grateful for funds from The Centre, MahJong Circle and KoryoBoP Taekwondo among others.

TECT has donated about $5m of the $7m it has available for 2017/2018.

“The Society presented a robust application. TECT Trustees acknowledge the growing population in Ōmokoroa and pressure on current community facilities in the area,” says TECT General Manager Wayne Werder.

“Trustees were impressed with the local

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community support through fundraising and in-kind support, and look forward to seeing the project progress,” says Wayne.

Among this year’s recipients of amenities grants have been Ōmokoroa Community Tennis Club Inc, with $54,920 towards two new courts. The Dave Hume Swimming Pool Trust received $157,500 towards upgrades, while Reach Out Trust (Katikati Christian Foodbank) was granted $22,000 towards a new building.

In the community development section, Aongatete Forest Restoration Trust received $15,000 towards operating costs, and there have also been at least seven further development grants for the Katikati area.

These ranged from $703 towards a computer purchase for the Community Baptist Church to $45,000 in two grants for the Katikati Community Resource Centre, which received $30,000 towards operating costs and $15,000 for its MPOWA Youth Project.

ICT and Security upgrades at Katikati College were boosted by a grant of $ 36,242.

Katch Katikati received $20,000 towards operating costs. The Pony Club received $7,500 for a trailer, and Katikati Kindergarten successfully applied for help with heating & lighting upgrades to the tune of $7,027.

The Tauranga Energy Consumer Trust has distributed $439m+ to thousands of account holders, community groups and projects throughout the Western Bay since 1993 including the Ōmokoroa Community Skate Path also at Western Ave.

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Council goes online for More dumped tyres Long Term Plan feedback I t’s time for communities to get down to the nitty gritty as Western Bay of Plenty District Council moves into the next phase of its Long Term Plan - seeking direction on key themes from community conversations earlier this year.

The Long Term Plan (LTP) sets Council’s strategy and direction for the next 10 years (2018-2028). It is revised three-yearly, and tracked annually.

Phase Two of the community engagement on the LTP went online in October. This phase aims to test whether Council is having the right debate on the issues that really matter.

Key themes emerging from the community discussions were: the pace of change, building our communities, protecting our environment and getting around.

Council is inviting people to join an online conversation through Facebook and the Council’s internet platform called “Have Your Say Western Bay”, to share views on the various options and actions proposed for each of these themes. The online conversation poses questions for people to answer, to help guide Council’s decision making.

The pace of change is making its mark on the District and our communities have made it clear they are keen to see Council making more investment into some areas, with a minimal effect on rates. We are asking our communities what their highest priorities are and how Council’s work and investment can match.

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Building our communities is important to create a sense of place and to retain their unique character. It is all about placing value on connections; social amenities, recreational space, educational opportunities, culture and art, a safe environment and vibrant town centres.

Protecting our environment and resources is high on our communities’ demands. Our District has many natural features such as rivers, streams, beaches, forest parks, estuarine sanctuaries and wetlands. There is increasing awareness of the need to manage our resources well and sustain our environment for the future.

Council is considering new options for waste management; for managing the slips at Ōmokoroa; for protecting wetlands; for working closely with tangata whenua to protect cultural and heritage sites and special features.

Getting around is becoming a bigger challenge. People want safer roads; more cycleways/walkways and better planning for public transport and alternatives to taking the car.

All these issues are central to Council’s long-term planning to set a strategic direction that will maintain the lifestyle that makes Western Bay special, while encouraging economic growth.

The final stage of consultation on the LTP will begin next March and will include online involvement and community-based events.

Article supplied.

f you spot anyone dumping tyres anywhere around the Western Bay – take their vehicle’s registration and phone Western Bay of Plenty District Council.

Several incidents of people dumping tyres on roadsides around the Western Bay are upsetting local residents and costing ratepayers money.

Council has received complaints from rural residents about piles of tyres dumped on the roadside verge of their properties. The activity appears to take place overnight and is usually a trailer-load or ute-load.

Picking up the tyres is a cost to Council and ultimately the ratepayer.

Three piles of tyres illegally dumped in the Te Puna area during the last two weeks resulted in more than 50 tyres having to be collected on three separate occasions. Council pays per tyre for collection and transport to the landfill.

If anyone sees or hears unusual activity at night – or has any information about where these tyres are coming from, please don’t hesitate to call Council on 0800 926 732.

Article supplied.

These tyres were dumped on Loop Road in Te Puna.

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Advance voting proves to be more popular than scrutineers

By Matthew Farrell mokoroa had an advance voting place ahead of the general election for the first time, with the Settlers’ Hall used on the three days before the polling day of 23rd September.

Across the country, the number of advance voters far exceeded the previous record, with 1.24 million people casting their vote early. The previous record of 718,000 was set in 2014.

Precisely 253,473 voted on Friday, breaking the one-day record set just the day before.

Some locals were unhappy with the role played by scrutineers and the fact they are allowed to wear a party rosette or badge with a logo inside voting places.

Speaking to me outside the Settlers’ Hall after voting, Paul Hoskin of Katikati appreciated the chance to vote early but didn’t enjoy the last-second partisan visual element.

“I’m going to be in Wellington on Saturday; otherwise I’d have walked to my local voting place on the day. It felt a bit funny casting my red vote in the heart of

the blue country. But, I think it’s bull that there’s a worker in there wearing a National badge. It’s a bit grim; a bit on the nose,” he says.

While some used social media to complain about scrutineers displaying political preferences, others didn’t mind them being there as observers.

Here are some of the comments: “What's up with the elderly couple behind the voting desk wearing National Party badges? Is this allowed?” - “Scrutineers are allowed to wear a party rosette or pin, but shouldn't talk to you while they're there.” - “I think it's disgusting to display a party rosette within the election area.” - “There has been a Greens one in our area all week. I don't think it's a big deal. They have always been at voting stations on the big day haven't they?”

- “It's an official, voluntary role. This is a good example of why we need civics in school because we don’t get taught why scrutineers are an important part of the process.” - “It's pretty gross and a negative reflection of the values of the party they’re pushing.”

e welcome your feedback and letters to the editor. We strive for accuracy, fairness and balance in reporting news of public interest.

We request that contributors assist us in upholding standards of decency and privacy - avoiding discrimination and

defamation. We reserve the right to edit or abridge submitted material and will identify scribes where appropriate, other than where confidentiality has been assured. Unless an article is marked as supplied, those without bylines will typically have been written by the editor.

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Police release photos of Bethlehem robbery olice are continuing to investigate the aggravated robbery of a Bethlehem store last month.

At about 1.20 pm on Friday 6th October, two men entered the TAB store on State Highway Two. The men, believed to be in possession of a firearm, robbed the staff of a small amount of cash.

They fled in a white-coloured 1993 Nissan Sentra, registration number SB330, which was stolen from the front of the store. It is yet to be located.

No one was injured during the incident, but those at the store were understandably shaken and are receiving support.

Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Turner says Police would like to speak to anyone

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who may be able to identify the two men.

The offenders were possibly in their late twenties or early thirties.

One was wearing light-coloured shorts and sports shoes, with a light-coloured peaked cap under a black and grey hoodie.

The second offender was wearing dark trousers and gumboots, with a grey hoodie. He also had a dark jersey tied over his shoulders and head.

Police would also like to hear from anyone who sights the stolen Nissan Sentra or has any other information on the incident.

Tauranga Police Station can be reached on 07 577 4300. Alternatively, information may be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

News credibility

Can you help Police to identify these men? PHOTO Supplied.

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TV producer returns to Te Puna and finds Tauranga changed ollowing an idyllic upbringing in Tauranga, Debbie Griffiths left home in search of an exciting journalism career. She went on to cultivate an impressive CV as a radio journalist, news reader, travel presenter and producer - as well as the voice of Pak’n Save and New World’s selfservice checkouts. After more than 20 years away, Debbie recently returned to live at Te Puna with her husband and two children and found Tauranga had blossomed into a thriving hub of activity.

“Tauranga is now a modern, slick metropolis. There’s a buzz of anticipation as well as pride about living in par-

adise - after all, when we close down our computers, we get to go for a surf or stand-up paddle at one of the world’s best beaches,” she says. “All the best minds are either here, or on their way!”

Two months before Debbie moved to Tauranga, she was offered her dream job as a producer and travel presenter on TV3’s morning show, The Café.

“I thought moving to Tauranga would mean giving up my media career, but when I told my Auckland colleagues I was moving, it was suggested I continue reading news from the local office. I can do a lot of the work from home, once a week I drive to Auckland for filming and every few weeks I’m away filming a different destination,” Debbie says.

Regarding her new lifestyle, Debbie says her children can run around safely on their property and build tree houses, kick balls and ride bikes.

“In Auckland, I was always worried about their safety from the street out front.

Now they explore and have adventures.” You can follow Debbie's travels on Instagram @debonthecafe or Facebook, at “Debbie Griffiths Travel Presenter". Article courtesy of L-R Tony Wadsworth, Debbie Griffiths, Nate Wadsworth (9), and Priority One.

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Asher Wadsworth (13) on Tauranga's rail bridge.

Natives hacked at Reserve

By Matthew Farrell resident who planted native trees in Cooney Reserve 12 years ago, has spoken about finding three youths chopping at trees with an axe.

The man investigated after his wife heard the sound of chopping. The youths denied felling the trees. One said he was chopping at a tree that was already dead, using an axe and knife he found there.

Carpet underlay was tacked to a log as makeshift seating. There was a ripped tarpaulin, a fire pit with iron rods covered in soot, ashes and old newspapers.

“The tree was green, it had been well and truly alive with no wilting or weathering. The cuts seemed bright and new. I

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A hideaway was found in the bush, north of the path.

said, ‘It doesn’t look good. You’re here with tools, after whizzing around on motor scooters. You might not be guilty, but you look it.’ The fire pit concerned me as much as anything.” he says.

Community Board chair Murray Grainger has notified the District Council’s Reserves and Facilities team and the Community Patrol.

“It’s highly irresponsible to light fires in the bush, especially in the summer fire season. A big fire burned out another area of the Reserve a few years ago,” says Murray.

The resident says he isn’t bothered by younger children who made earth mounds and wooden jump ramps on the hill for their bicycles.

“Those kids were just having fun in the school holidays. I never saw them in the bush. It doesn’t seem likely they were involved,” he says.

The parents of one of the three youths took him back to the hut site, where he admitted his moped left skid marks in the grass, but again denied felling the tree. His father asks the parents of all teenagers to keep an eye on them.

“People are upset, but who knows who’s done it? Kids are kids, but clean up after yourselves. Respect the environment. Don’t destroy what’s around you,” says the father.

Murray Grainger returned the next day to take photographs and found another two young guys, Jacob and Josh, filling a sack with rubbish from the area.

He says Ōmokoroa thanks them for this good deed.

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Ōmokoroa Boat Club Cadets Sailing Programme

By John Budden his year we want to extend the skills of parents and young sailors both, to fully use our five Sunbursts whilst beginners start off in the Optimist fleet. We are hoping the Seascouts will bring their Sunbursts (and/or cutters) too. If you have a runabout or dinghy bring it along as we will need support craft. Also we will need at least two adults to assist in the rescue boat each session. (Training provided for our three rescue craft.)

We aim to enjoy our sailing in safety

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now we have three RIBs plus perhaps the Scout Rescue boats.

We meet at the boat shed. Remember to bring life jackets, clearly marked.

I can be contacted either by phone on 548 1180 or by email at buddennz@gmail.com as we will communicate by email only.

Here are the sailing dates and times until December 2017: 11 November, 1100, tide 1457 (1.9m) 25 November, 1000, tide 1345 (1.7m) 9 December, 1000, tide 1342 (2.0m) 23 December, 0930, tide 1237 (1.8m)

Boaties need waterproof bag for cellphone

By Matthew Farrell

hen boaties can't call for help, they can't be rescued - and a casual cellphone in your pocket isn't good enough.

Weather dependent, Bay of Plenty Regional Council was to hold boat ramp workshops at Sulphur Point, Whakatāne, Bowentown, and Ōmokoroa last month.

Harbormaster Peter Buell says Safer Boating Week has previously focused on lifejackets.

“Lifejackets and waterproof communications work together. A lifejacket helps you float and they have saved many lives, but if you can’t call for help then there’s

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Near gale forces four retirements

Sailors and supporters gather for the morning briefing.

By John Budden ārewa was the call, but weather conditions made a change to one long harbour instead. The start was suggested at 10.30, and as some yachts had not raised sail we started at 10.45, but Bruce on Murungaru took the briefing time as start time and was off.

The fleet followed. Conditions were a strong SW wind with a steep harbour chop. This developed during the day to be a near gale and steep seas. Piccaninny led out from D closely followed by Sophie Rose and Wild Thoughts with These Days, Culprit and Kōnini and Rosie at the trail, by Rangiwai Sophie Rose and Wild Thoughts were leading, These Days sneaked past Piccaninny, Kōnini, Culprit and Rosie coming down harbour fast.

The lower harbour was a mass of white caps, but downwind all was good. At the Tauranga Yacht and Power Boat Club, the

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| Lizard News | November 2017

leaders tacked to the Mount and entry.

Piccaninny grabbed backed two places only to lose them in the entry where the wind reached gale force, and Piccaninny retired and motored home. At Hunters Creek the putty claimed These Days and Wild Thoughts then Culprit retired in storm conditions. Murungaru finished first at about 13.13, then Sophie Rose at 13.23, and Kōnini at 13.30 then Rosie at 14.30. Well done those crews.

At Ōmokoroa the rescue boat was launched to check These Days, Rosie and Wild Thoughts.

Rosie finished unaided, These Days after engine problems came home safely.

John and Alan found Wild Thoughts off the Matakana beach – rigged a bridle tow and brought Keith home safely. Maybe we should have tried Kārewa! All retired yachts got one point. Well done all of you in near storm conditions.

OMOKOROA

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no way to know you need rescuing,” he says.

“You need at least two reliable ways to call for help that will work when wet.

Whether it’s a marine VHF radio, or cellphone in a waterproof bag. It’s not good enough to simply chuck your cell in your pocket and hope for the best. We can’t over-emphasise the importance of carrying waterproof communications,” says Mr Buell.

Surveys suggest 86% of boaties take lifejackets, while 76% wear them all or most of the time on the water. But only 38% of boaties take two waterproof ways to call for help and the most common device they take is a cellphone.

AUTOMOTIVE • • • •

Full mechanical service W.O.F agent and repairs Trailers, small motors MTA assured

Ph/Fax: 548 1976 Mob: 027 233 3857 A/Hrs: 548 0429

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lizardnews.net

Tommy says reading to kids vital

By Matthew Farrell nce Te Puna time’ was how Tommy “Kapai” Wilson began a recent story reading session at Above & Beyond.

The education and care centre on Te Puna Road hosted the local celebrity writer a few weeks ago, on the same day his latest book was being launched on television.

His daughter Holly A’Court ran the overhead projector as Tommy read a 20-year-old

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favourite, “The Day I Met A Princess”, to a crowd including his 3-year-old granddaughter Āriana.

This true story about Princess Diana featured a schoolgirl named Susan who is now a bank teller in Wellington. Artist Brian Potter drew Tommy’s father, Len into a crowd.

He shared some Te Reo with those gathered. Did you know Te Puna means the spring or the well, or that Tauranga means safe anchorage?

Story time with Te Puna author, Tommy Wilson.

Robyn Mayne 021 663 318

Tommy said it felt “really neat” and “pretty cool” to be invited to read to the children.

“Keep reading your kids stories and making them smile ten times a day. It’s really important. So is making up your own stories for your children. They are there forever,” he says.

Amy Webb’s children Emily (2) and Jacob (1) Haywood had a great time.

“It was a good story. The kids did well, too.

I’m impressed they’ve put this on, and I can’t wait for the next one,” says Amy. Tommy returned home from Switzerland to write, after deciding everything he needed in life was in his backyard. He scribed the first six Kapai Kiwi books under the pen name Uncle Anzac, in honour of both his father and Uncle Hēni who were both servicemen, before the publisher sold the rights to his dismay.

His latest book, “When Daddy Comes Home”, reflects the 20,000 children whose fathers are in jail. Tommy has set up a Givealittle page to buy books to gift to these children. He says a 9-year-old Māori boy who can’t read and write has a 70% chance of going to prison.

“When you look at the situation faced by some - the poor, the homeless, those with drug addiction - there’s a need to educate and reconnect with people, and reading is a big thing.”

As part of the team at Te Tuinga Whānau Support Services, Tommy recently attended the opening of the 9th and 10th emergency homes for homeless with the Tauranga Moana Trust.

Mike Wade 021 726 599

Trust taking care of precious Kaimai Range he Kaimai Ridgeway Trust is an association of outdoor recreation clubs from all areas near the Kaimai Range that works with the Department of Conservation to improve and maintain the tracks and huts in the area.

Staffed by volunteers, this partnership includes managing 160kms of tracks, maintaining most of the huts and constructing four new huts.

The Kaimai Ridgeway Trust has a five-year project plan that intends to increase the backcountry recreation options significantly within the Kaimai Ranges.

Currently, there is an 85km multi-day trail that runs the length of the range, providing a rewarding experience that includes great views, superb bush scenery and mountain streams. To find out more about Kaimai Ridgeway Trust, visit www.kaimairidgeway.nz Article supplied.

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Murray Browne 021 912 972

Faye Wilton 027 231 7770

Claridges Real Estate have been achieving excellent prices for our vendors in Omokoroa in recent months.

If you’re planning a move ANYTIME in the next 6 months, NOW is the time to act!

Spring is the perfect time to plan an awesome selling campaign and get a top result. In fact, we have some great ideas that will help you achieve a top market price in a reasonable time.

We are offering EVERYONE who lists their Omokoroa property exclusively with us for 90 days, before 30 November 2017, a FREE marketing package to the value of $1,500.00.

Call us today to take advantage of this great offer.

9D Tui Glen Robyn Mayne 021 663 318 or 07 552 5921 robyn@claridgesrealestate.co.nz www.open2view.com ID 405584

77 Harbour View Road This classic style and substantial 230m² home built of timber and aerated concrete with imported quality joinery and a shingle roof, is a fantastic entertainment home with options for guests, or adult family. The home is situated in popular Harbour View Road, Omokoroa with inspiring harbour views across the inner harbour, Motuhoa Island and the Mount beyond... www.open2view.com ID 406946 Mike Wade Ph: 021 726 599 or Email mike@claridgesrealestate.co.nz

Retail 2, 170 Omokoroa Rd, Omokoroa 3172 (medical centre complex) Office: 07 548 0779 A/h: 07 552 5921 web: www.claridgesrealestate.co.nz November 2017 | Lizard News |

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lizardnews.net

Advertorial

Massage for health and wellness

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f you are seeking relaxation, restoration, or pain relief then consider Ōmokoroa Massage as a gift to your body or for someone else.

I take a holistic approach during each session, taking care to address both the pain or muscle soreness and also the cause of that pain.

My techniques are designed to match each unique health and wellness situation, whether it is a Relaxation massage, Therapeutic massage or more intense Deep Tissue Therapy - or most likely a combination.

Sometimes the stress of everyday living can take its toll. In addition to regular massage relaxing tense muscles and relieving the physical symptoms of anxiety, it can calm your mind and improve your sense of well-being.

Massage may help with faster injury rehabilitation by reducing stiffness and restoring movement so that you can focus on healthy healing and recovery instead of soreness. It can help you to manage chronic pain for an improved quality of life.

Massage can naturally increase your range of motion, assist with deep sleep, lower anxiety and enhance your mood, so you feel better.

A targeted sports massage benefits those with active lifestyles by improving circulation, loosening tight muscles and reducing stress on joints.

I am certified in Health and Sports Massage from Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology, trained in Myofascial Release Therapy and have additional skills in Shoulder Harmonising and Trigger Point Therapy. Myofascial Release Therapy is an effective form of handson manipulation that releases restrictions in the fascia (connective tissue beneath the skin that attaches, stabilises, encloses and separates muscles). When restrictions are released, space is created, helping to restore movement in the body.

I’ve lived in Ōmokoroa for six years.

We are lucky to have a caring community with a number of health modality practitioners that can offer you a multifaceted approach to wellness.

Andrea Van Klei is a Registered Massage Therapist (MNZ).

Beginnings of a borrow-bag?

By Liz Farrell he recent announcement by some of the bigger supermarkets has been widely reported. They will not stock single-use plastic bags at checkouts after 2018. While many people already use ‘re-usable’ shopping bags, the plastic variety are evidently still used by the majority of shoppers.

So how do we transition to a more environmentally-friendly bag? I am keen to help develop something everyone can use - and many can help create. I am interested in gauging interest in producing our own community 'borrow-bags’. A similar project operates in many towns across New Zealand - our nearest neighbour, Katikati, already runs such a project under the ‘Boomerang Bags’ banner.

We surely have plenty of fabric available across the community. The Centre and other op-shops may have garments or sheets which may not be suitable for sale and therefore thrown away. You may have leftover fabric in your home just waiting for the right project!

I’m sure we also have plenty of people who are handy with a sewing machine, willing to give a little time to put together a bag using a basic pattern. We could arrange a working bee, or you may like to work privately at home.

Steve Ling, the owner of Fresh Choice Ōmokoroa, says they are really happy

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about the phasing out of plastic checkout bags.

“There are so many of these bags used across the country each year, many of which are not recycled. This will have a positive impact on our environment going forward.

“Regarding how we deal with the customers' groceries at the checkout, once we stop plastic bags is still undecided, however we think your idea with the community bags is a great one. We would need to make sure they were clean and hygienic, of course, for food safety purposes - but yes, an excellent idea.”

If you would like to be involved in this community initiative by providing fabric, cutting or sewing, washing or if you have screen printing experience, please contact me on liz@lizardnews.net or call 548 1200.

ARE YOU SUFFERING FROM STRESS, SORENESS, OR ACHING JOINTS AND MUSCLES? SCHEDULE A THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE TODAY

The many benefits of massage may include helping to reduce pain, relieve stress, increase circulation, improve posture and flexibility, lower blood pressure, relax muscles, assist with injury rehabilitation and flush body toxins.

Become a loyalty member of Omokoroa Massage and after 5 one hour regular priced massages receive your 6th massage half price!

Individual use only and valid for 12 months from first appointment.

$65 Gift Vouchers Available, Perfect for Christmas

Feel Better, Relieve Stress, To book Call or Txt 021 08184170 www.omokoroamassage.co.nz

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| Lizard News | November 2017

Ease Pain

Treescene provide a full range of services and expertise to take care of your trees • • • • • • • • • •

Tree and stump removal Tree pruning Tree health assessments and reports Hedge trimming Storm damaged trees/emergency tree work Planting and gardening Land clearing Chipping and mulching Firewood and mulch delivery Rental property maintenance

Contact Hayden for enquiries or to request a free quote on 021 242 0305 or email hayden@treescene.co.nz

www.treescene.co.nz

Dates for your diary

lizardnews.net

8th

Cairn construction gets underway

By Alison Badger he construction of the Ōmokoroa ANZAC Memorial Cairn in the Crapp Reserve is now underway, with a ‘Turn the Turf’ event taking place on the morning of Friday 3rd November.

After a widely publicised and lengthy community consultation process, considerable time and effort have been put into the design of the cairn. This ensures it is appropriate for both its purpose and the setting.

Many meetings have been held with

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Waipuna Hospice hosts “Murder on the Orient Express” at Event Cinemas. 2 screenings from 6.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets $30 from hospice shops or www.waipuna-hospice.co.nz

8th

11th

the building company and the stonemason, ensuring everything has been clearly understood.

Construction is anticipated to take approximately two weeks, and arrangements have been made with Pirirākau hapū regarding the observance of the appropriate cultural courtesies.

Following completion of the cairn, an official opening will be announced to which all are invited. For further information, please contact either me (548 1544), or Heather Reynolds (548 1680), or speak to Liz at the library.

12th

12th

12th 19th

21st

21st

25th

26th

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An artist’s impression of the memorial cairn.

Pre-purchase and rental inspections

Concept planning; alterations and additions

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Affordable Art & Artisan Fair. Presented by ARTbop at Black Sheep Bar & Grill, Plummers Point Road, Whakamārama. Ōmokoroa Business Women’s Network. 7pm at Ōmokoroa Preschool, Margaret Drive, Ōmokoroa.

Whakamārama Kindergarten Christmas Market.

Whakamārama Hall from 5.30pm.

Aongatete, Ōmokoroa, Pahoia, Te Puna, Whakamārama - we’d love to share your events. Email your details to matthew@lizardnews.net and they’ll appear here and on our website.

OPEN TO PUBLIC Mon-Fri 8am – 5pm ● Sat 8am – 3pm

Phone 07 548 0894

49 Plummers Point Road, Tauranga

Turn off opposite Gull Whakamarama. Delivery Available

www.gammans.co.nz

Professional Handyman

• Skilled in many trades • Workmanship guaranteed • No job too small Carpentry Leaks sourced & resolved Rot Repairs & reinstatement Bathroom fit-outs Shower installations Tiling & painting

Many local references

Peter Alford

548 0024 • 021 181 1060

Christmas Lizard Market, Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall 9am - 1pm.

4pm Submissions close on the Draft Easter Sunday Shop Trading Policy 2017. See Council website.

> Gap Metals > Drainage Metal > Crusher Dust > Sealing Chip > Builders Mix > Washed Sand > Decorative Stone

Ōmokoroa Sports & Rec AGM. 7pm at Western Avenue Sports Pavilion, Ōmokoroa.

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Project management; new homes and renovations

Steve Willoughby 021 677 374 steve@housefit.co.nz www.housefit.co.nz

Ōmokoroa Number 1 School Ride on Mower Day. 10am - 3pm, Emeny Road.

BUILDERS, DEVELOPERS & LANDSCAPERS

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“The Best and Worst of the Kaimai Forest”. A 4-5 hour guided walk through the Kaimai Forest led by Basil Graeme. Arrive at the Aongatete Outdoor Education Centre at 9.45am.

ATTENTION

Quarryfest at Te Puna Quarry Park. 10 am - 4 pm. $2 entry.

Musical entertainment, craft and produce stalls, food and drinks.

December 1st

Lions Market, Western Ave carpark, Ōmokoroa. 8 am - noon.

Ōmokoroa Community Board meeting. 7pm at Ōmokoroa Community Church, Hamurana Road.

24th

Sisters in Song, presented by Inachord Chorus. Baycourt 7.30 pm. Tickets from Ticketek.

Te Puna Quarry Park AGM to be held in the Quarry Gallery.

21st

Ōmokoroa Point School PTA AGM. 7pm in the staffroom.

November 2017 | Lizard News |

11

lizardnews.net

Plans change for Wairoa River cycleway bridge lans to construct an ‘iconic’ cycleway bridge over the Wairoa River have been shelved in favour of a more pragmatic and affordable design.

The bridge was to be a key feature of the Ōmokoroa to Tauranga Cycleway but is no longer feasible due to higher than expected costs.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council deputy chief executive Gary Allis says based on the initial concept it was estimated the bridge would cost around $6.5m but updated estimates following geotechnical testing and engineering design have shown that it is no longer the best option in terms of value for ratepayers.

“Our focus is on delivering an iconic cycle trail through some picturesque parts of the Bay of Plenty, which we hope will be a drawcard both for locals and commuters and also as an attraction for tourists. We are committed to completing the project while also ensuring we deliver value for our ratepayers.

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“Since our initial concept plans engineering surveys have shown the site wouldn’t suit a bridge design like this and we’ve had to be honest about what we can achieve within the budget.”

Council will continue to work with partners on the project to find a solution that works for the site and is achievable within budget.

The trail is an Urban Cycleways Programme project, jointly funded by Central Government, the NZ Transport Agency, Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Tauranga City Council with additional contributions from the NZ Community Trust, Tauranga Energy Consumer Trust and the Ōmokoroa Community Board.

The planned 19km route will be made up of both new and existing off-road shared paths and local road connections that will provide a link between the growing township of Ōmokoroa and Tauranga City's existing urban cycleway network.

Article supplied.

Advertorial

Osteopaths join Emma Giles

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wo new osteopaths have recently joined Emma Giles, enabling her popular clinic to manage patient needs better into next

year.

“Demand for appointments in both Ōmokoroa and Tauranga has been high, which unfortunately has meant longer waiting times occasionally. We wanted to bring those times down so we could help patients sooner and continue to provide a professional, reliable service both on your doorstep and in the CBD,” says Emma.

Neil Maidment, who describes himself as a passionate problem solver, graduated from the European School of Osteopathy in the UK ten years ago.

“With my love for sports and coaching, I have the drive to help educate and influence people

in finding the cause of the problem in their body. I work with structural, visceral and cranial techniques, as well as looking into nutrition, lifestyle and activity levels,” says Neil.

Former Supergroove drummer Paul Russell achieved a Masters degree with distinction from the College of Osteopaths in London in 2015 before returning to NZ. “I enjoy finding tailored solutions to individual musculoskeletal problems, and working in partnership with patients to maximise the body's potential for recovery and improved health,” he says. Throughout his studies, Paul also worked as a sports massage therapist.

Emma Giles has lived in New Zealand since 2005, initially working at a practice in Titirangi before opening her Tauranga clinic in 2008, and a second location in Ōmokoroa in 2012.

Neil Maidment.

Paul Russell.

Just Cats Holiday Inn for your loved felines $12 per day 8-9 am & 4-5 pm boarding cattery 482 Esdaile Rd, RD8, Tauranga

027 233 2643 07 577 1993

justcatsholidayinn@xtra.co.nz • www.justcats.net.nz

7am to 6pm Four-year-old programme •

• Swimming lessons at • Minnows twice • a week •

Real trees, and grass in our new extended playground

•

•

•

A community vegetable garden Animals: guinea pigs, rabbits, fish

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OMOKOROA

BARBER

Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri 9 am - 5 pm

No appointments neededjust walk in!

Thu 9 am - 7.30 pm Sat 9 am - 12 pm Karen Murphy

We provide quality education and care for children aged from 0 - 5 years in our purpose built centre.

All qualified Teachers

Healthy Home cooked meals

Kitchens • Laundries • Vanities • Wardrobes • Custom cabinetry

Transition to School

o als roa w o no ok Om in

I.C.T for children

Baby Sign Language

Trips to our local community 20 ECE Hours/WINZ

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Please feel free to pop in and meet the team anytime

O S T E O PAT H EMMA GILES B.Sc(Hons) OST. B.Sc(Hons) Sport Science.

144 Margaret Drive Omokoroa 3114

Two new osteopaths - more appointment times!

www.omokoroapreschool.co.nz

Clinics in Omokoroa and 45 Grey Street, Level 2, Tauranga

Phone 07 548 2626 Email admin@omokpreschool.co.nz

| Lizard News | November 2017

UK Trained - nZ reGiSTered STrUCTUraL and CraniaL OSTeOpaTh aCC prOvider nO Gp referraL neCeSSary

emmagilesosteopath.com • 07 577 1951

lizardnews.net

Advertorial

Whakamārama Hall Activities

Go for granite in your garden

The Hall Committee needs You. ositions have become available on the Whakamārama Hall Committee, and we’d offer a warm welcome to anyone who may be interested in joining. We are a committed, friendly bunch who manage to get things done and have a laugh. Anyone seeking to be more involved in the community, please contact Mike Carter, Sylvia Birkett, Clare Green, Debbie Allen or Liz Davies if interested or email whakamaramahall@gmail.com Summer is coming! You may have an event coming up, a work function, birthday celebration, or wedding reception.

You’ll find the hall is a light, clean and affordable option. Call Sylvia Birkett, the booking officer, on 07 578 7015 to hire the hall, chairs and tables at very reasonable rates.

Whaka Hall Library opening times are Thursdays from 9 am-noon, and every

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New Arrivals

3rd Friday of the month from 6:30-8pm.

TWIF (Thank Whaka it’s Friday) – Every third Friday of the month from 6-9pm. All welcome. Bring your dinner, a bottle or two and meet the community. A great way to meet the locals and get to know what’s happening in Whaka.

Playgroup is a free no pressure group for pre-school children. Come and have a cuppa and let the kids enjoy a wonderful range of toys and the outdoor playground. Thursday mornings 9.30 to 12 pm.

Colin Hewens informs Whakamārama residents of news in our community which includes: - police reports, lost & found animals, items for sale, excess fruit/vegetables, rentals wanted etc.

If you would like to receive these emails, please contact Colin on col.hewens@orcon.net.nz

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t’s time to act on your intentions to improve your outdoor living space before summer. Carine Garden Centre & Water World has a unique selection of imported granite water features, fire pits and benches for you to consider.

There are more than a hundred working water features displayed at Carine, on the corner of State Highway 2 and Te Karaka Drive in Te Puna.

There’s also a great selection of more than 200 styles of pots, urns and globes - and over 40 styles and sizes

of preformed ponds from which to choose. There is something for any project, and for every budget.

Check out the newly-improved garden centre, which has been relaunched following a substantial makeover. It is not only an enjoyable shopping experience; professional advice is also on hand to help with queries about gardening, earthworks, landscaping and water features - including those timeless granite options. It’s more than just a garden centre.

Rachel and Cole Jones of Te Puna welcomed Leah Gear of Te Puna welcomed Korihi Gearbaby girl Margot Rose Jones on 4 October, Hunt on 11 October, weighing 7 pounds 5 weighing 8 pounds 1 ounce. ounces.

For Sale

46 Laurel Drive, Whakamarama

So much more than just a garden centre!

If it’s worth doing, we can help you do it right first time!

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Your locally owned and operated, one-stop shop for all your landscaping materials and professional advice.

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Attractive country style family home with 4 bedrooms, generous living areas and conservatory, 2 large sheds, plus 1 hectare of north facing flat land planted with foliage for Export & Local Market income. Implements and home furniture available. A view of Kaimai Ranges and harbour for $890,000 plus gst if any.

Treat your family to country living.

$890,000 (plus GST if any) Ross Goodwin - 0272 797 329 Te Puna - 07 5524 242 ross@northbayrealestate.co.nz northbayrealestate.co.nz/ KAT11461

PRICE CONTACT OFFICE EMAIL WEBSITE

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2

• Landscaping, house site excavation and levelling earthworks.

• Timber fencing, decking and screens.

• Professional landscape planning and advice to suit your budget.

• Bulk landscaping supplies and delivery.

• Retaining walls, driveways and patios.

• Extensive range of trees, shrubs and vegetable plants.

• Largest selection of fish ponds, water features and filters/pumps.

• Massive range of tropical and cold water fish.

• Exotic birds in our large outdoor aviaries.

arine Garden Centre & Water World

Phone 07 552 4949 Mobile 021 281 1818 Email: info@carine.co.nz www.carine.co.nz Cnr SH2 and Te Karaka Drive, Te Puna

OPEN SEVEN DAYS

November 2017 | Lizard News |

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lizardnews.net

Local families to benefit from annual fundraiser

By Debbie Griffiths hen I ask whether the fundraising event will go ahead if it’s raining, the reply comes with a wry smile.

“People with MND don’t get to choose which day they have the disease,” Tanya Gilchrist explains. “So we will walk, rain or shine.”

It’s a topic that’s close to the heart of this Ōmokoroa businesswoman and mother-of-three. Tanya has known at least a dozen people who’ve suffered from the muscle-wasting disease. One was her grandmother who was diagnosed when Tanya was 12 years old.

“I remember we were playing Canasta when suddenly the arm she was leaning on gave way. I’ll never forget the look on her face. I knew something really serious was going on.”

Motor Neurone Disease (MND) causes

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the muscles that enable us to move, speak, swallow and breathe to gradually stop working. Every week, another two people are diagnosed.

The progressive disease robbed Tanya’s beloved Nana of movement and speech before it took her life.

“That was the hardest thing to watch: losing the ability to communicate was huge. She had always used her hands, but gradually she couldn’t bake, knit or play cards with us. We could see the sparkle in her eyes, but she was stuck inside a body that no longer worked.”

As an active member of the local support network, Tanya still gets calls from people who’ve been newly diagnosed with MND. “They’re desperate. They’re confused.

They don’t know what to tell their children. Many people are diagnosed in middle age, so it’s not just affecting them.

It leaves partners having to be carers

and then solo parents. The trauma lasts MND - will be held rain or shine - on Sunfor years.” day 12th November from 9.30am at FerThat’s why half the money raised by gusson Park.

There’s a 3km the Walk 2 D’Feet MND goes to support- or a 5km option. To register, go to ing families affected by MND. www.mnda.org.nz/walk “They need help now,” says Tanya. “There is no cure for MND. These families just need to know that they have support to get through. The fundraiser is about giving them hope.”

Walks 2 D’Feet MND are being held all over New Zealand as the main annual fundraiser for MND New Zealand. Last year, Tauranga people raised more than $2500 with half going to research and the rest helping support people with MND and their families.

About 320 New Zealand families are affected – 18 of those are in the Bay of Plenty DHB area. Ōmokoroa’s Tanya Gilchrist with a photo of her nana, Need to know: Walks 2 D’Feet Alice Reynolds, holding her as toddler.

Bus improvements follow consultation nother bus route has been created for the Western Bay. The new Town Connector service linking Waihī Beach, Waihī and Katikati every Thursday has arrived as a result of public feedback received by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council.

Some passengers have been travelling on to Tauranga. The service has been sensibly aligned with the Katikati Shop-

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per timetables to allow for seamless onwards travel.

Under-fives travel free, children, tertiary and secondary students with student ID and SuperGold Card holders pay just $3 and an adult fare is $5.

The trial service will run until the end of June 2018.

Meanwhile, a new 37-seat vehicle with a super low floor and better wheelchair

$5000 List & Sell your orchard with me exclusively and receive a

TRAVEL VOUCHER * *Properties must be listed by the 31st of December 2017

access has been introduced for commuter and weekend shopper travel between Te Puke and Tauranga.

Route information and timetables are available at baybus.co.nz or 0800 4 BAY BUS (0800 4 229 28).

Christmas!

The Lizard Market Omokoroa

Settlers’ Hall 334 Omokoroa Road

Saturday 25th November

9AM-1PM

Christmas raffle arts • crafts • music coffee • cafe • face painting clothing • BBQ fundraiser Photos with Santa 11am-noon

See you there!

Brendon McCullough Licensed Salesperson REAA2008

027 578 3899 07 562 0318 brendon@katikatirealty.co.nz

Katikati 14

| Lizard News | November 2017

BoP RC Public Transport Committee Chairman, Lyall Thurston, says changes to bus services reflect the growing demand for alternative modes of transport.

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Golden year for bowling club

By Bill Murphy prominent local bowling duo won the Lynley Park Open Mixed Pairs held recently at the Ōmokoroa Bowling Club. Willie and Janet Burmeister, unbeaten on the day with four good wins, headed off a strong field of over 60 outside entrants from nine clubs around the Western Bay region.

Despite difficulties with weather interruptions the Ōmokoroa Club has been very active since opening the season in early September. Championships are underway with the Women’s fours title going to Annette Hawkins (skip), Jane Mason, Caryl Collier and Linda Walker.

Three teams remain in the men’s event, respectively skipped by Dennis Matthews (with two lives) Trevor

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Clayton and Bill Murphy.

Two prestigious club tournaments, the Mike Deane Motors sponsored Ossie Phillips Memorial, and the FreshChoice Godwit Festival were held during October. Both these time-honoured events form part of a new nine event Challenge Ōmokoroa Series launched by the club and run on a points aggregate for members throughout the season.

Rodger Broomhall’s team including John Murphy, Max Cleaver and Clare Nicholson claimed the Memorial Trophy while Dennis Matthews, Christine Ramsden and Peter Nicholson won the Festival Tourny. The latter event is held annually to celebrate the migration of the godwits to the peninsula and was keenly supported by a display from

Ōmokoroa Point School pupils.

The Club is celebrating 50 years in existence and had a great turnout of older and former members to festivities on Labour Weekend. The month of November will see the Club promoting the game of bowls in the wider community with support from Tall Poppy Real Estate, by holding an Open Day at 1 pm on Sunday the 5th of November and the popular Twilight Bowls starting again on Tuesday the 14th.

Further information on both these events is available from Bill Murphy on 548 1491 or Max Cleaver on 548 0298.

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Morgan Solomon presenting the prize to Janet and Willie Burmeister.

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Some of the godwits made by the school pupils on display at the Ōmokoroa Bowling Club.

Affordable Art & Artisan Fair RTbop and The Black Sheep Bar & Grill have come together to create the ‘Affordable Art & Artisan Fair’ which will take place on the last Sunday of every month. The first fair will be on the 26th of November and run from 11 am – 3 pm.

This event will be open to local artists and artisans who produce high quality, original, handmade pieces. We are looking for a commitment to four fairs in November, January, February and March(there will be no December fair) at a cost of $40 ($10 per fair). The great news is there will be no commission.

The Black Sheep has a large outdoor

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area ideal for trestle table display. Much of it is under cover. There is also a big area where marquees can be set up. Although the venue is large there will be a selection process if there isn’t room for everyone.

ARTbop will be conducting a widespread advertising campaign and this, along with the good food at Black Sheep and the wonderful ambience of the venue, is sure to make this fair a huge ongoing success. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of it. Email your details including your website to Birgitt at aaafair17@gmail.com Article supplied.

Omokoroa HAIR STYLIST Nails on Esdaile Steph Lines

Manicures . Pedicures . Gel polish . Enhancements By appointment only

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CALL SIMON 027 487 5444 OR AFTER HOURS 552 0079

Locally owned and operated ALL PLUMBING, DRAINAGE, GAS & ROOFING REQUIREMENTS

A L’Oréal stockist, specialising in ammonia-free INOA colours 14 Hamurana Road Phone: 07 548 0762

Gerard Quilty 027 447 5493 • 548 1337

Painting & paper hanging Specialist coatings Free and much more! quotes

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Katikati artist Birgitt Shannon is leading the charge to find high quality original art and artisan products for the Affordable Art and Artisan Fair, starting at the Black Sheep on 26th November.

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1930s theme for Hospice film premiere

By Matthew Farrell aipuna Hospice is encouraging movie-goers to dress in a 1930s theme for a red carpet premiere of 'Murder on the Orient Express' at Event Cinema, Elizabeth St, on Wednesday 8th November.

You can go to hospice shops to source costumes. The Katikati branch has reopened after closing last month for two weeks of refurbishment and is appealing for more volunteer staff.

It's bigger, brighter and now open on Saturdays with a more extensive area of furniture and homeware, ladies fashion and a Man Cave.

You can visit waipuna-hospice.co.nz to volunteer for shifts in the Katikati Hospice Shop or to buy movie tickets from the Events section.

In other news, the annual Remembrance Tree appeal will take place at various sites around the city, including Fresh Choice Ōmokoroa and the Katikati Hospice Shop. Anyone interested in volunteering to man either site for an hour or two can register their interest online

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at www.waipuna-hospice.co.nz under the volunteer tab. People are encouraged to invite a friend or neighbour to do it with them.

The remembrance tree appeal is a long-standing tradition for many. As well as being a fundraiser to support Waipuna Hospice services, it is a unique opportunity to remember those we love at Christmas by writing a message to someone we have either lost or who can’t be with us.

Farmers Tauranga and Bayfair are also involved as part of a nationwide partnership with Hospice New Zealand. While volunteers aren’t required for the Farmers sites, customers are invited to make a donation and write a personal message for the tree while shopping.

DON’T MISS THIS RED CARPET PREMIERE TO SUPPORT WAIPUNA HOSPICE Wednesday 8th November Tauranga Event Cinemas Two Screenings Only: 6.30pm & 7.30pm

Whakamārama Community Playgroup

By Debbie Allan idden in the hills of Whakamārama is a small group of mums and children who meet every Thursday morning at Whakamārama Community Hall from 9.30 am to noon. This hidden gem is the local Whakamārama Playgroup and is known as a small friendly group who support each other in parenting and our unique rural life.

The informal style of our playgroup makes us different from other preschool groups, and there is no commitment for our members to run sessions or attend courses. We offer a relaxed atmosphere where children can learn through exploring and playing.

The Whakamārama Hall offers a spa-

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cious indoor area for wet or cold days where children have space to ride bikes or sit with puzzles, playdough or art activities. On sunny days we have access to a large fenced grass area complete with sandpit and swings. It is our aim this summer to build a tree hut, and in the tradition of the Whakamārama community, our Playgroup will be utilising the skills of local handymen and tradespeople to enhance our outdoor area.

We extend an open invitation for anyone to attend Whakamārama Playgroup, on Thursday mornings from 9.30 am, at Whakamārama Community Hall, 469 Whakamārama Road. For enquiries, please contact Debbie Allan, coordinator phone 552 5141 or see me at Playgroup.

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16

| Lizard News | November 2017

Life is Special

Full range of general dentistry 2/170 Omokoroa Road, Omokoroa, Tauranga 3172 07 548 2320 reception@omokoroadental.co.nz www.omokoroadental.co.nz

lizardnews.net

By Matthew Farrell

The Garden about to open

s we go to press, the driveway is about to be laid at The Garden Early Childhood Centre on Prole Road in Ōmokoroa. Nearby electricity infrastructure work was due to be completed, so the final hardscaping was just a few days away.

Rachel and Mornay Jacobs were aiming for a provisional opening date of Monday 13th November. It was great to see their dream taking shape at last month’s open days.

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Checking out the rural view from the playhouse window.

One of the indoor play areas - just add children!

L-R: Kim Hooper, Deena Jensen and Rachel Jacobs.

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Mon pen day ing 1 (pro 3th N visio o nal vemb date er )

CONSISTENTLY EXCEEDING VENDORS PRICE EXPECTATIONS Hi Neighbours BUYERS are over auctions and many will not even look at a property without a price (because they don’t know what they will have to pay).

They are cashed up and ready to buy!

Opening this month!

The Garden is beautifully and thoughtfully set up with natural and recycled materials to create a home away from home for children aged 3 months to 6 years.

High Teacher: Child Ratio.

Open 7:30am to 6pm.

Situated in easy access to State Highway 2.

Locally owned and operated.

Real grass, real trees and lots of space to explore.

When you list with me, with a price, OWNERS are seeing up to 4 multiple offers, the best far exceeding the top price dreamed possible.

With auctions, the top price only has to be $500 over the previous bid. In multiple offers, no one knows what the offers are, so the best price often far exceeds the others.

Linda recently sold our Lifestyle Property for us. In the short time it took her to sell our place she worked tirelessly and kept us well informed, with regular updates and feedback from potential buyers. Linda is a people person, with a bubbly personality, who thrives on matching buyer and seller. A property is not sold until it is unconditional and Linda will keep on it until it is done.

We would happily recommend Linda and list with her again in the future.

Thanks, Jym and Michelle (Whakamarama).

Home: 07 548 1699 Office: 07 578 8887 Mobile: 0274 221 040 Email: linda@nrgrealty.co.nz Web: www.nrgrealty.co.nz 590 Cameron Road, Tauranga

Something exciting is blooming...

Monday 13th November 7a Prole Road • 07 548 2036 www.thegarden.co.nz • info@thegarden.co.nz

To find out more, call me, I’d love to come and meet you

Your local, proven, successful lifestyle agent

Linda McLean Sales Consultant NRG Realty Ltd Licensed REAA 2008

November 2017 | Lizard News |

17

lizardnews.net

Time to act on plans for two Reserves

By Matthew Farrell mokoroa residents have just a few more days to play a part in the next stage of planning for the future development of two popular reserves.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council is seeking feedback on draft proposals for car parks, walkways and harbour access points for Lynley Park and Precious Family Reserve.

Concept plans for the location of amenities can be seen at haveyoursay.westernbay.govt.nz An open day was held alongside the Lizard Market at the Settlers’ Hall on Saturday 21st October.

Cllr John Palmer says there had been a steady flow of people, particularly earlier in the day, with two leading schools of thought regarding Precious Reserve and the wetlands there.

“One idea is for a passive reserve with walking access to the beach. The other is to develop it more as a destination with a car park and a toilet, seating and a barbeque to take pressure off the domain and Esplanade,” he says.

“There will be absolutely no vehicle access to the waterfront, just to the pump station about halfway down. Have we got that right? Or should we facilitate vehicle access further down?”

Resident Betty Gane voiced her scepticism as she left the open day.

“The Council do what they like, as far as I am concerned. You can’t do much about it. I like the (Mabs Kelly) walkway.

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I don’t want cars down to the water. The Council never listens to anyone. The Ratepayers Association had plans for Ōmokoroa 30 years ago. We wanted a township where the new church is and a petrol station where the supermarket is.

If you ask the Council, they’ll tell you those plans were lost in a fire,” she says.

Betty Gane says before the Precious Brothers owned and subsequently gifted the land, it was held by the Edwards family in the 1800s - relatives of her husband’s grandmother.

Cllr John Palmer says no final decisions have been made.

Council’s Recreation Planner, John Rauputu, says people should speak up if they want to see changes to how the reserves should be used, or if they want more spent on playgrounds, toilets or other facilities.

For Lynley Park Subdivision Reserve, Council is seeking feedback on lookouts, carved pou, seating and signage, and future development of Mangawhai Pā, walkways and cycleways. The consultation closes at 4 pm on Monday 20th November.

To Anderley Avenue

Cllr John Palmer (left) discussing the plans with a resident.

3m Wide Track Esp

01

Rec

03

Infor laun

01

Existing Concrete walkway / cycleway

04

T Pump station

02

Esp

Existing Tree Line

Park

Proposed Future Development: 1. Mabs Kelly Walkway (Includes service vehicle access to pump station) 2. Carpark 3. Wetland reveg planing (existing and proposed expansion) 4. Stormwater management area and silt disposal with wetland reveg planting.

Additional Items for Consideration:

· · ·

Investigate location of toilet.

Investigate for all year round passive recreation.

Review stormwater requirements

• TV aerials/dishes • TV install/ mounting • Freeview and TV wifi • Home Entertainment • Sound gear/installations

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Why community matters

By Kymberley Carter-Paige have just moved to Ōmokoroa, and I am looking forward to living in a small community again. I originally came from the UK around 14 years ago. One of the things my family and I noticed when we came here, was how friendly the people seemed to be. It seemed alien to us that people would say hello as we walked along the streets. The check-out assistants always asked us how our day was going.

I used to travel to work in the UK on the train. People were like zombies, with heads in magazines or newspapers, avoiding eye contact at all cost and just staring into space. It was refreshing to come here and feel like a valued person.

Recently, however, I have noticed things are changing. When walking the dog or around town in Tauranga, people seem to find it hard to offer even a friendly smile. This is why I am looking forward to living in a smaller community. I am hoping people here will continue to be as warm as they seem so far.

Apart from the fact I enjoy a friendly smile or a wave hello, there are more im-

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portant reasons why we should encourage more connection between strangers in our community. As a hypnotherapist I see many people suffering from depression, anxiety and other mental disorders.

Many of these people feel lonely, unworthy and lack self-esteem. Research shows humans need connections. We are tribal beings, which is why as children we adjust our behaviour and try and look the same as our friends at school.

We are desperate to fit in.

Having people around us who care, listen and connect with us gives us a sense of safety, security and belonging. This is especially important when we unexpectedly find ourselves alone, due to our children leaving home or a partner leaving or dying. People feel a loss of life purpose.

I’m not saying we should be popping over to the neighbours every day, but it doesn’t cost anything to have a 5-minute conversation to ask how people are, to offer to keep an eye on things when they go away and be neighbourly. Let’s decide to be a friendly, caring community; a place where we all love to live.

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07 548 1440 18

| Lizard News | November 2017

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Top-level talks on transport challenges et's face it, our population is growing, and that's a good thing. But with more people, come more cars and trucks on our roads. This brings challenges.

We’ve all seen congestion grow in Auckland despite substantial investment in new roads and public transport. This shows the challenge all growing cities face unless they take some radical steps to plan a different future. All the western Bay of Plenty councils are concerned about continuing traffic growth and want to look at long-term solutions to the problem.

This is a high priority for SmartGrowth, and the Leadership Group has

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un Jessica Arl

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Future housing needs for the Bay new SmartGrowth project is now underway, looking at the range of housing needs for the western Bay of Plenty into the future. The consultant chosen to develop the Housing Needs Assessment is Community Housing Solutions, the consultancy arm

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Rental squeeze fast becoming key factor in housing crisis new SmartGrowth report says our region needs to take the lead in developing a different approach to renting, as home ownership becomes increasingly out of reach for many New Zealanders. This government-funded national report, whose development was overseen by PATAG, focuses on older people and the rental market and documents evidence that home ownership has halved to just 44 percent in 40 years.

The rental squeeze is creating overcrowding issues as more people live together to make rentals work.

SmartGrowth’s Population Ageing Technical Advisory Group (PATAG), advises the Partnership’s leadership group on the challenges of a changing and growing population. With the health, well-being and disability needs of the ageing population in the western Bay of Plenty at heart, PATAG works to improve social and economic issues related to our ageing population.

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been holding high-level strategic transport discussions. These focus on looking at national, regional and local policies and structures.

Chair of Tauranga City Council’s City Transformation Committee, Larry Baldock, tells us the city has to accommodate 45,000 new households over the next 50 years.

He says that could bring at least another 100,000 new vehicles onto our transport system and that we need to look at how to manage things better and talk to the government about what we can do differently together, including finding new funding tools and investment partnerships.

of Community Housing Aotearoa. They will be supported by Ian Mitchell of Livingston and Associates.

The work will include a housing and demographic needs analysis and will recommend actions to support a range of different housing choices, prices and options to assist with housing need and affordability across our community.

The final report of the work is due at the end of November. The SmartGrowth Partnership Office is coordinating the project. BayTrust has recently come on board as a contributing funder to work alongside the SmartGrowth Partnership, Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Tauranga City Council.

The articles on this page are courtesy of SmartGrowth

The SmartGrowth transport workshop held at Tauranga City Council Chambers on Wednesday 18th October took a strategic look at all the issues involved across the Upper North Island.

These include: how planning at a national, regional and local level should evolve to ensure a truly integrated approach to transport; how to keep transport links strong at an interregional level and to our Port; and how to create a city and a region that works for people and moves everyone around in a way that’s enjoyable and efficient.

Bill Wasley, Independent Chair.

Booming silver economy research project initiated by SUPA-NZ and SmartGrowth says the Bay of Plenty silver economy is expected to grow from $2.55 billion in 2016 to $6.92 billion in 2031, then $15.62 billion in 2061.

SmartGrowth has always regarded population-ageing as a critical spatial planning challenge. Rapid demographic ageing is not only a major societal challenge regarding public budgets, workforce, competitiveness and quality of life but also a significant opportunity for new jobs and growth.

The value created by living longer is also referred to as the booming “silver economy”.

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We'll be returning next autumn.

Thank you for your custom this year.

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Omokoroa Golf Club 548 0384 extn 5

Contact

November 2017 | Lizard News |

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lizardnews.net

Intriguing new books for November Ōmokoroa Library Ph. 07 571 8008 Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Sat 9.30am-noon

Whakamārama Community Library Ph. 07 578 7015 Open Thu 9am-noon 3rd Friday 6.30pm-8pm

Te Puna Community Library Ph. 07 552 5715 Open Mon-Fri 12.30pm-1.30pm (closed school holidays) Weds 6.30pm-7.30pm Thu 3pm-4pm (closed school holidays) Sat 10am-noon

PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER

Lie to Me J.T. Ellison

DEBUT NOVEL

HUMOROUS

My Absolute Darling Gabriel Tallent

THRILLER

The Break Marian Keyes

HISTORICAL CRIME

99 Red Balloons Libby Carpenter

Daughters of India Jill McGivering

Book Review - Te Puna Quarry Park hosts Clivia Show Out of the D Woods by Brent Williams

By Ian Duncalf

his book is sub-titled “A Journey Through Depression and Anxiety”, and it shows, in a very raw and powerful way, how long a campaign it is to harness the inner voice of depression once it sinks its claws in.

The presentation in a graphic format, brilliantly illustrated by Korkut Öztekin, is harsh and vivid.

But it is so painfully clear that, even though it is one person’s experience, it is accessible for everyone.

For someone deep in the grip of depression, the illustrated style with small amounts of text makes it easy to read in manageable pieces. For anyone walking alongside a person struggling with anxiety or depression, you will come to a keen understanding of how it is to live with this crushing disease, and how you can help. This book is a genuine and compelling read.

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• • • • • • •

On budget, on time Professional & reliable Call-outs Fault finding & repairs Rewiring & renovations Alterations & extensions Rural work/pumps

espite unpleasant weather, a good number of enthusiasts turned out to enjoy the display of flowering clivia in the Te Puna Quarry Park gallery on the first day of October. Clivia, known locally for their colourful display of orange flowers under the harbour bridge overpass, thrive in dry shade and are now available in a range of colours. The display, hosted by local members of the NZ Clivia Club, included the usual orange types along with the less common yellows, peaches, pinks and green forms. Breeders are constantly trying to improve both the range of

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t's been two and a half years since Kim, the Bald Englishman Hairdresser, took a leap of faith and moved his affordable hairdressing salon from Moffat Road to his home in Snodgrass Road, Te Puna. At first worried that he would lose his wonderful customer base, Kim's reputation for affordable hairdressing, together with his ease with people and passion for excellent cutting and colouring, meant that the majority of his clients couldn't imagine going elsewhere.

Not only did they follow him, they told their friends and encouraged them to support him too, especially those who lived in Te Puna and Ōmokoroa. In fact, Kim's rep-

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now well established and constantly being added to. A repeat of this year’s show will be held again in late September next year, and hopefully, the weather will be less challenging giving visitors the chance to enjoy both the indoor display and the wonderful Quarry Park itself.

The Bald Englishman Hairdresser

Pahoia-based Serving Te Puna to Katikati

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colours and the quality of blooms and this years' “People’s Choice” was a testament to the advances being made.

Jude Coen’s selection, Adele, was an absolute standout with a full rounded flower head in delicious shades of green. Other advances included the “green throated” orange selections, soft pinks and apple blossoms. The display showed the great variety that exists within this popular group of South African plants and punters were keen to purchase the newer forms available from local breeders. The Quarry Park has its own plantings of clivia which are

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The Bald Englishman salon provides hairdressing services for gents and ladies, including cuts, colours, highlights and perms, and has plenty of parking available. The vistas from the salon chair are lush and green, and there's always a tea on offer for those longer appointments. Well, he is an Englishman after all!

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lizardnews.net

Movanning for beginners - A Molesworth experience

By Lindsay Roberts (Tiger #4798)

Continued from September... he day dawned warm clear and still. We were up breakfasted and ready for the off. The situation was that the larger vehicles would head out first, the reason being that if they struck difficulties, the organisers would have more time to extract them. Unbeknown to most of us an advance party had headed out at first light, armed with sandbags shovels and axes, with these they sand-bagged and cut down willows to help make the fords easier to negotiate. We were in a smaller movan 5.5m were somewhere in the middle of

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the pack.

We headed out shortly after 10 am just one of 275 movans. At first, the road was not too bad, and we made good progress towards Ward Pass, when word came back over the CB that a vehicle couldn’t make it up the pass and was stuck on a corner near the top, all but blocking the road. The directive then came. No vehicle was to commence the climb till the one in front was at the top. This really slowed things down, as the actual climb was about 2km and we were only 10km into the journey. Eventually, it was our turn, what a doddle, our little Isuzu did it at a canter. We passed the broken down movan and by now knew its problem. It

was a petrol powered European movan, the altitude (1145m at the top of the pass) and heat had vaporised the petrol.

(I believe they were eventually towed to the top and were ok from then on). A very steep descent towards Isolated Flat, the name says it all, a sharp hairpin turn at the bottom to cross the Acheron River, the exhaust brake really proved its worth. This was the real Molesworth.

Towering mountains, barren scree slopes and vast grassy flats in wide river valleys. Then there was the road; rough and unforgiving, 15-20km/h was good speed and the dust, that lay like a smoke screen behind each vehicle in the hot still air, a kilometre behind the preceding ve-

hicle was probably close enough.

We did not have exclusive use after all!

Cyclists had also been approved to go through, bad choice on their part. One group sick of eating dust, when told there was close to 300 R/Vs to pass, gave up in disgust and went and made camp well away from the road.

To be continued.

Note: This article was written in 1994 since that time many thousands of Motor Homers (some who are probably reading this article) have made the journey through the Molesworth. The fords are mostly culverted and the road much improved. Back then it was a real adventure.

Relationship building in the smaller ECE classroom setting

By Beverley Haddon rom birth, children begin developing their social and emotional skills, which influence children’s mental health and well-being, now and in the future. Children learn these skills through their relationships with caregivers, peers and early childhood staff. Children who experience warm, responsive and trusting relationships are better able to manage their feelings and cope with the ups and downs of life.

Like all children, our Minnows children are eager to learn. They all come from different backgrounds, but the one thing they all have in common is the need for a safe and happy learning environment. Building relationships is an integral part of creating a safe, unified early learning environment.

Small is beautiful! When the number of children is low in an ECE setting, each child gets more individual attention and teacher interaction. At Minnows we pride ourselves on being a small centre in a mixed age setting – This ensures our teachers get to know you, your child and family. Building long-term stable relationships and minimising the stress that can be caused by segregation from siblings and friends. Our children grow relationships with peers of different ages and develop empathy and responsibility through caring for others. Older children with more significant experience provide role models for play, language,

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building friendships and how to play with and alongside others.

Smaller groups help children develop social skills by providing them with consistent opportunities to interact with a limited number of children and teachers.

Language is further extended by our high teacher to student ratios and excellent parent support that enables us to take spontaneous trips to the local beach and surrounding areas (right on our doorstep).

Group size works to raise program quality, not merely because there is magic in having a particular number of children gathered together, but because when the number of children is small, each child gets more individual attention and therefore able to form stable relationships. The resulting interactions are of benefit to the children and a significant reason why group size is an essential quality in preschool education.

Research has suggested that teacherchild relationships play a significant role in influencing young children’s social and emotional development. In studies of teacher-child relationships, children who had a secure connection with their preschool and kindergarten teachers demonstrated positive relationships with teachers and peers when they go to school.

Minnows Kindergarten is Ōmokoroa’s longest running quality early childhood centre next to Cooney Reserve in

Teacher Nikki with some of our children at Cooney Reserve Beach.

Ōmokoroa Village. We provide a safe and stimulating learning environment for children aged 0 - 5 with flexible hours, small numbers, low student to teacher ratios and an innovative teaching programme, including our transition to school programme (4-year-olds). We are open 7.30 to 5.30 Monday to Friday inclusive of school holidays.

Call in and see us at 3 Margaret Drive anytime, to see how we can help prepare your child for future learning through play and nurture. Call 07 548 2040, email minnows@xtra.co.nz or visit www.minnowskindergarten.co.nz Minnows Kindergarten. “Where kids can be kids.”

Older children make great role models for the under two's.

November 2017 | Lizard News |

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High tea a hit at Acacia Park

By Matthew Farrell packed car park ahead of time told a story, as CHT Acacia Park Home and Hospital celebrated with a full house on the week of International Day of the Older Person (IDOP).

Plenty more stories flowed along with the fine afternoon high tea poured into bone china cups, as the ‘Last Of The Summer Wine’ quartet strummed their singalong numbers on Friday 29th September. Christine Norton of ForgetMe-Not Life Stories talked to residents about her work preserving memories.

Acacia Park manager Megan Thorne says the afternoon was a success.

“Everyone seemed to enjoy the enter-

tainment. Several first-time visitors commented that they hadn’t realised how pleasant the facility is,” she says.

IDOP has been celebrated globally since 1991, to highlight the important contributions older people bring to society, and to raise awareness of issues such as abuse and discrimination.

Age Concern says it’s important to remember to acknowledge year-round the wealth of knowledge and skills that New Zealanders aged over 65 bring to communities.

The theme this year was “Stepping into the Future: Tapping the Talents, Contributions and Participation of Older Persons in Society.”

Jose Dallimore and her mother, Molly Brown (103).

Janet Currie and her mother, Margaret Gallagher (101).

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Avocado picking begins

By Matthew Farrell

make an ideal early solid food when a baby is ready.

Avocado oil is a healthy substitute for olive oil or vegetable oil in savoury recipes, sauces and dressings.

With 72% healthy unsaturated fats and 20 vitamins and minerals, mashed avocado is a lower calorie substitute for butter on toast, sandwiches and in baking.

he main Hass avocado harvesting season is underway in Bay of Plenty. You can expect to see trucks heading from orchards to packhouses until April.

Good sized avocados on most trees have been ready to pick since September for some orchardists in the Lizard News area.

Avocados are unusual as they do not ripen on the tree, they only ripen after being picked which takes about two weeks. If they are harvested before they are mature, avocados will remain rock hard and never ripen.

They’ll ripen faster in a fruit bowl, but you can accelerate the process by popping them in a brown paper bag with a banana or apple, which naturally give off ethylene gas.

Once cut, lemon juice and vinegar can be used to stop from browning or puree with lemon juice and freeze.

The NZ Avocado Growers Association says avocados are full of folate which is essential during pregnancy and they also It’s harvest time for this Ōmokoroa orchard.

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Christmas Market supports Kindy

By Debbie Allan

ith Christmas just around the corner, Whakamārama Kindergarten has the solution for those gifts for loved ones this festive season. We are hosting our first boutique Christmas Market on Friday 1st December at Whakamārama Community Hall from 5.30 pm. This market will showcase local businesses and locally made products, perfect for buying unique gifts for family and friends, or just for yourself. Amongst our stallholders offerings will be locally produced honey and locally grown organic produce.

A range of activities will be on offer to

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Rose Jacobs (103) has an excellent seat for ‘Last Of The Summer Wine’, L-R: Denis Mathews, Paul Fitzpatrick, Paul Uttinger, and Max Cleaver.

Preschool storytime Waihī Beach Library Every second Tuesday, 10.00—10.30 am Katikati Library Every Thursday, 10.00—10.30 am Ōmokoroa Library Every Friday, 10.00—10.30 am

22

Whakamārama

keep the children entertained while parents leisurely browse the goods on offer by stall holders. Activities include lucky dips, colouring in and cookie decorating.

Children can also leave a note to Santa on our Christmas wishing tree. There will also be food and drinks available to purchase. This is a cash only market, with no EFTPoS available.

Market tables are available for sellers for just $20.00, with money going towards purchasing much-needed resources for our children and Whakamārama Kindergarten. Table bookings and enquiries can be made to Debbie Allan, phone 07 552 5141 or email zingari.deb@hotmail.com

Christmas Market

Fundraiser: Friday 1st December From 5.30pm to 8.30pm At Whakamārama Community Hall 469 Whakamārama Road Showcasing local businesses and locally made products for your unique Christmas gifts Activities for young and old, including lucky dips, colouring in, cookie decorating

Read, Sing, Move

Leave a note for Santa on our Christmas Wishing Tree

Parents and caregivers please remain with your children during the session and feel free to join in

Tables for sellers $20 each, with funds going to Whakamārama Kindergarten

| Lizard News | November 2017

Food and Hot Drinks available

lizardnews.net

Ōmokoroa Playcentre By Ōmokoroa Playcentre his month we talk to a couple of Playcentre mums about why they love coming to Ōmokoroa Playcentre and what makes it a great place for their families.

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Jess Helms, mum to Lilah (22 months) and Abel (6 months), How long have you been coming to Playcentre? We started to come to the SPACE programme at Playcentre last year when Lilah was first born. This programme is for first-time parents to learn about this new parenting journey together and connect with other first time parents in the local area. We then just carried on coming to Playcentre this year once the Space programme wrapped up.

What first attracted you to Playcentre? I think it’s good for Lilah to have an outlet and interaction with other kids, and she can play in ways I couldn’t provide at home. It’s good for me too because I get adult interaction with like-minded parents.

What has been the best thing about coming to Playcentre for you and your kids? Lilah gets to be free to do what she wants to do and I don’t have to clean up after her! The sandpit is great – I don’t have any of this stuff at home. It also adds structure to our week. I think it’s a good place for all age kids, and there’s always someone to watch and make sure the kids are safe while they’re playing.

Lanna Gel, mum to Marley (2 years) and Ollie (6 months) How did you hear about Ōmokoroa Playcentre? We’re new to the area and I just saw the sign when I was driving past one day. I was aware of what Playcentre was about as I have a friend who is a Playcentre teacher, so I was stoked when I saw that Ōmokoroa had one. We’ve only been coming since the beginning of August, so a couple of months.

What first attracted you to Playcentre? Being new I was keen to meet other families in the area and also support a local community centre.

What do you like most about Playcentre? I love that the kids have free play and can just do whatever they want – it’s all child-led. There’s lots for them to do and new experiences for them to explore and learn. Marley’s favourite thing is the diggers and the sandpit.

We’re also looking forward to getting to

know everyone and making more friends!

What has your experience of Ōmokoroa Playcentre been? It’s really friendly, welcoming, and inviting.

What would say to someone who hasn’t been before? Come along and try it out!

Jess Helms, Lilah and Abel.

Protect the flock!

By Tammy Bruce ah, spring is finally here and with it the return of the godwits. I just love seeing the large flocks of bar-tailed godwits (kuaka) that fly over my house.

Next time you see them make sure you stop and look up, listen to the hundreds of wings beating…it’s pretty special I reckon!

The Ōmokoroa Point School “Wild about NZ” kids are also pretty nutty about our native birds and recently had a lovely crafty morning in the sunshine painting cut-outs of godwits which were then displayed at the Ōmokoroa Bowling

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Lanna Gel and Marley.

We’re really excited to be finally upgrading some of our non-play facilities.

This project will remodel and re-furnish the kitchen, toilets, office, resource room and baby sleeping room – all with the aim of making the facilities more usable and accessible for the kids, more parentfriendly, and improving the disabled access, hygiene standards and storage capacity. We’re about to start the process of applying for funding and looking for contractors to do the work, so if you’d like to be involved or support this community project in any way, we’d love to hear from you. We’re hoping the work can be completed during the Christmas holidays this year. Ōmokoroa Playcentre is located behind Settlers Hall, 334 Ōmokoroa Rd, and is open from 9.00am – 12.00pm Mon, Thurs, Fri during school terms. For more information, pop in during our open hours, phone 07 548 1343 or email omokoroa@playcentre.org.nz. We’d love to see you sometime soon!

Omokoroa

OPEN 9am - 12pm Mon Thurs Fri Behind Settlers Hall 334 Omokoroa Rd

Would your kids love some messy play fun but you don’t want the mess?

Grandkids coming to stay but got no toys?

Or tired of buying toys that never get played with?

Come along to Playcentre for a morning of FREE PLAY and exploration of the senses omokoroa@playcentre.org.nz • 07 548 1343 first 3 visits free • 0-6 yr olds welcome

Club’s annual “Godwit” competition in mid-October. What a great way to raise the profile of these amazing migratory shorebirds! Godwits are sadly in decline, largely due to habitat loss. Godwits forage over the intertidal zone at low tide and congregate in flocks at high tide roosts, but can be extremely wary birds, so the best way to view them is with a pair of binoculars from Cooney’s viewing platform or as you meander along the cycleway. Thanks to Graham Walker for his handy work cutting out the godwits, Resene for the paint and Bob McKinnon for the godwit collaboration!

OPEN Saturdays 9.30 - 11am Behind Settlers Hall, 334 Omokoroa Rd

Toys for children 0-5 years from as little as 50c for two weeks* omokoroatoylibrary@hotmail.com

‘Check out’ our HUGE range of toys for hire... *Annual membership fee applies

November 2017 | Lizard News |

23

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Ōmokoroa Artists exhibition Abstracts, zentangles and everything in between

By Margarete Kraemer he Ōmokoroa Artists group exhibition at Bob Owens Retirement Village spelled out an exciting alphabet of art showcasing a wide spectrum of styles, materials and techniques. Attended by some 100 visitors the exhibition was officially opened on a Friday night, 29th September, by Mayor Garry Webber and Ōmokoroa Artists group organiser Jackie Knotts.

Jackie pointed out that the group, which has been in existence for 21 years, was not restricted to Ōmokoroa artists and that two of its members now live at Bob

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Stella Clark both wears and displays her art.

Owens. Garry Webber lauded the “neat little group’s” initiative to reach out to the community.

Janine Birch stands for both: art as a means of personal expression and community art. She has been a member of Ōmokoroa Artists for nearly 20 years and is involved with the Ōmokoroa Public Arts Group. Over the years she has attended many professional workshops and still keeps learning. With a five-acre property to look after, nature and her garden are a big inspiration. Janine works in different styles: abstract as well as figurative art, acrylics and oil as materials, but she always picks the medium that suits the subject. Most recently she has developed a pouring technique mixing acrylics. “It makes some very interesting effects. Pouring does its own thing.”

Stella Clark, a younger member who started painting eight years ago, is a mixed-media artist whose colourful, vibrant work often depicts nature and local landscapes. Stella attended Massey University and has an honours degree in design with a major in illustration.

Like many other artists, she juggles art around various jobs and children. Being a part of the art group has provided her with a lot of support and encouragement as she continues to work towards a professional practice.

Stella also exhibits with The Incubator at the Historic Village in Tauranga, Macandmor Gallery in the Goddard Centre, Turner Gallery and Waihi Beach Gallery. More recently she has started painting onto textiles, for example, scarves and tops, which has been appealing to people as a form of wearable art.

Over the weekend the exhibition drew about 500 visitors and resulted in $4,500 of sales. Jackie Knotts, speaking for the group of 30 members of different ages and varying levels of skill, is pleased with the outcome.

“The success of our exhibition is not just the number of sales but the number of people who came to look and the positive comments we received,” she said. However, when asked why there were only female artists’ names on the exhibits, she has no answer: “We just can’t seem to attract any male artists.”

Ōmokoroa residents travelled to support the exhibition.

Garry and Carole Webber discuss the exhibits.

Pushing for public art estern Bay of Plenty District Mayor Gerry Webber is a confessed public art proponent.

Still under the impression of a recent meeting with Wellington-based arts and community development expert Peter Biggs, the Mayor quoted him at the opening of the Ōmokoroa Artists exhibition by saying: “One of the values of art in modern life is how it brings people together. Another one is that art and culture add vibrancy to the community.” Biggs had shared his views on the region’s new Arts and Culture Strategy, which is being developed by Creative Bay of Plenty, with representatives of Tauranga city and the Western Bay district. Ōmokoroa Artists member Janine

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Janine Birch recently developed a pouring technique, mixing acrylics.

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Birch is also chairperson and the driving force behind the Ōmokoroa Public Arts Group. The advisory group’s aim is to establish art on the peninsula that reflects the character and history of the area. After the installation of the iconic Lizard on Rock sculpture, their next project is fundraising for an anchor stone to be carved by a Maori artist and placed near the boat club. $12,000 needs to be raised to make it happen. A watercolour picture, “Magnolias” by Betty Oakes, was raffled off at the exhibition at Bob Owens Retirement Village.

It was won by Ōmokoroa resident Heather Reynolds. The $500 raised from the raffle will be donated to the public art fund.

| Lizard News | November 2017

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Growing legacy of Tiritiri Matangi trip

By Shirley Sparks ay back in 2005 a group of nine volunteers working at the Te Puna Quarry Park hired a small Te Puna bus, owned by David Furniss, to take us to Tiritiri Matangi Island for three days. We were interested to see how this small island was being restored in habitat as near as possible to the original forest after being completely denuded for farming in the early 1900’s.

We returned full of enthusiasm and determination to our own project of transforming the Te Puna Quarry. One of the ideas gleaned from our trip to Tiri was to plant an area in cabbage trees (cordyline australis) as they had featured so prominently and at great advantage to bird life on the island. This was carried out in an area on the west bank of the Quarry. The trees have grown and are doing well.

Quoting from Gerald Hutching’s article in the New Zealand Encyclopedia: “ The Māori used to call the cabbage tree Tī Kōuka and found many uses for it in their daily life; from the roots, stems and leaf buds came food and drink; from the leaves were made kete (baskets or bags); ropes, sandals, rain capes, bird snares and thatch for their houses. The cabbage tree was a source of medicine for colic, dysentery and diarrhoea.

Dead cabbage trees are able to ‘come back to life’. A Northland gum digger made a chimney for his hut fireplace out of hollow cabbage tree trunks placed side by side and nailed together. A fire was kept alight for some months until the stems were burnt through and only parts of the outside bark left. A short time after the man left the place, a mass

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of green shoots grew out of the cambium layer in the ground below the blackened chimney. The cabbage tree possesses remarkable regenerative powers.”

Cabbage trees actually prefer damp conditions so their growth in the Te Puna Quarry Park will be of some concern and interest as the years roll on. The tree is popular with many birds, some seeking both insects and water from the base of the leaves. Other birds enjoy the nectar from the fragrant cream flowers whose perfume can waft through the surrounding countryside in spring. Kererū eat the fruit. When left to grow naturally, tī kōuka drop their leaves in great quantity, thus supplying lovely, rich litter full of insects for birds to fossick in for food and also providing nest-building material. As the Quarry Park is largely an informal development, this is worth keeping in mind. Continual ‘tidying up’ negates some of the benefits of encouraging bird life.

Also in connection with memories of Tiritiri Matangi, I would like to include a tribute to Eric Geddes who, after ‘retiring’ from the island, spent some years working and helping in the Te Puna Quarry Park. He also left us a legacy in his will. The area between the cactus and succulent nook and the frog pond has been planted in NZ native trees and named for him. Before he joined us in the Quarry, he was a very active volunteer on Tiri. He planted many hundreds of trees, helped with the rebuilding of their bunkhouse and built many saddleback nesting and roosting boxes. Often he would bring a ladder, tied to the roof of his car, to assist him in his quest in the

Quarry to control the gorse, wattles, pines and other invasive weeds growing on the high, steep banks. Eric hated pampas grass. He made a point of explaining to anyone he could get to listen, the difference between pampas grass and our NZ toetoe. When the grasses are in bloom one can easily differentiate between the two - pampas grass has a straight, upright stem carrying the plume of the flower head. Toetoe has an elegant, droopy downward curve to its flower.

I thank you all for your ongoing support at any or all of these events and your many visits to the park throughout

the weeks, months and years. Without your support and your donations our interest in developing and maintaining this COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT IN THE ENVIRONMENTAL ARTS would fade. We thrive on your enjoyment.

Upcoming special events at the Quarry Park:

Quarryfest: Sunday November the 12th; A.G.M. Tuesday November the 21st and Carols in the Quarry on Friday, December the 15th.

Something for all ages at Quarryfest

By Liz Farrell ethlehem Te Puna Lions’ volunteers have been busy preparing the Quarry Park for its annual festival.

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Gardeners, music-lovers, families and friends are all invited to come to the third Lions’ Quarryfest on Sunday 12th November.

The festival has become a regular calendar event for the Western Bay. Organisers are finalising a great line-up of entertainment and stalls while putting the finishing touches to ensure the gardens are looking their best.

With the Bethlehem Te Puna Lions now in their third year of organising the park’s primary annual fundraiser, Ian Calvert says they’ve worked hard to create a memorable occasion.

“We have had two extremely popular events.

It’s all about entertainment, stalls with a wide range of products including food and drink and enjoying the gardens in spring,” says Ian. On Sunday 12th November the quarry will be abuzz with activity and music for all ages.

Musical entertainment features throughout the day on the green and in the amphitheatre. Acts include the Wai Taiko Drummers (Japanese drumming), Bay

of Plenty Pipes and Drums with Tina Peat’s Celtic Dancers, the Kaimai Express bluegrass band, Acoustic Music Club and Tauranga Brass Band, the Cordelia Quintet and Barbershop group, Peter Clever and singers.

For the kids, there is once again abseiling from the top garden.

There are food and drink stalls on-site and produce for sale, so is a great way to get out and about in the pre-summer sun.

“There’s a huge amount of craft people with their items on display. There’s food on offer all day and don’t forget the

garage sale,” says Ian. The Quarry team also have a plant sale with all sorts of plants - a vast collection - many of which have been propagated in a little nursery on-site.

“We have a bus that will take people from the bottom carpark up to the top and will have a few golf carts ferrying people with limited mobility up to where the action is,” he says.

The Te Puna Quarry Park Quarryfest is on Sunday 12th November from 10 am 4 pm at 108 Te Puna Quarry Road. Entry is by $2 coin for adults and is free for children under 12.

QUARRYFEST 2017 WHERE

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Sunday 12th November 10am-4.00pm

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$2.00 donation per adult (all nett proceeds to Te Puna Quarry Park)

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Quarryfest is on again at Te Puna Quarry Park, where families and friends can enjoy musical entertainment all day at the amphitheatre along with craft and produce stalls, food and drinks. Abseiling at the top garden is also on the list of attractions.

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November 2017 | Lizard News |

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Omokoroa Tide Chart November 2017 1 Wed Omokoroa Tides

Fishing Guide Moon Phase

Omokoroa Tides

Fishing Guide Moon Phase

2 Thu

5:44 1.7 11:57 0.4 18:15 1.8

F

0.3 1.7 0.3 1.8

0.2 1.8 0.3 1.8

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R 5:20 S 18:42

*Not for navigational purposes

S 4:59 R 17:26 18 Sat 2:25 8:46 14:48 20:59

1:29 7:41 13:51 20:03

4 Sat 0.2 1.8 0.3 1.9

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F

S 4:24 R 16:20 17 Fri 1:36 7:58 13:59 20:13

0:35 6:43 12:55 19:10

3 Fri

0.2 1.8 0.3 1.8

G

0.2 1.8 0.3 1.8

G

R 5:53 S 19:39

0.2 1.9 0.2 1.9

3:14 9:28 15:38 21:47

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S 5:34 R 18:33 19 Sun 3:11 9:32 15:35 21:43

2:23 8:36 14:45 20:56

5 Sun

R 6:28 S 20:36

0.1 1.9 0.1 1.9

B

S 6:11 R 19:43 20 Mon 3:55 10:16 16:19 22:25

6 Mon

0.2 1.8 0.3 1.8

G

R 7:06 S 21:30

0.0 2.0 0.1 2.0

4:55 11:11 17:22 23:30

B

S 6:52 R 20:54 21 Tue 4:36 10:57 17:02 23:05

4:05 10:20 16:30 22:38

7 Tue

0.2 1.8 0.3 1.8

G

0.2 1.8 0.3 1.7

5:55 0.2 12:13 1.8 18:23 0.4

Tide chart supplied by OceanFun Publishing, Ltd.

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24 Fri 0:21 6:34 12:51 19:04

R 9:21 S 23:55

1.7 0.3 1.8 0.4

G

R 10:13

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| Lizard News | November 2017

Owned and operated by locals

0:22 6:35 12:55 19:07

10 Fri 1.9 0.0 2.0 0.1

B

S 9:26

G

R 8:33 S 23:10

9 Thu

5:45 0.0 12:02 2.0 18:14 0.1

S 8:29 R 23:11 23 Thu

G

R 7:47 S 22:22

0.0 2.0 0.1 2.0

B

S 7:37 R 22:04 22 Wed 5:16 11:36 17:43 23:43

8 Wed

1.9 0.1 2.0 0.2

1.7 0.3 1.8 0.4

F

S 0:36 R 11:07

R 1:07 S 11:32 26 Sun 1:41 7:55 14:12 20:31

2:09 8:19 14:44 20:56

12 Sun 1.8 0.1 1.9 0.2

G

B

R 0:12 S 10:28 25 Sat 1:00 7:13 13:30 19:46

1:15 7:26 13:48 20:00

11 Sat

1.7 0.3 1.7 0.4

F

S 1:14 R 12:04

1.8 0.2 1.9 0.2

G

R 1:54 S 12:37 27 Mon 2:27 8:41 14:58 21:18

3:07 9:14 15:41 21:53

13 Mon

1.7 0.4 1.7 0.4

B

S 1:50 R 13:02

1.7 0.3 1.8 0.3

G

R 2:35 S 13:42 28 Tue 3:16 9:31 15:47 22:10

4:07 10:11 16:39 22:50

14 Tue

1.6 0.4 1.7 0.4

B

S 2:22 R 14:02

1.7 0.3 1.8 0.3

G

R 3:12 S 14:44 29 Wed 4:10 10:25 16:41 23:05

5:08 11:10 17:37 23:48

15 Wed

1.7 0.4 1.8 0.3

F

S 2:55 R 15:05

R 3:46 S 15:46 30 Thu

6:08 1.7 12:09 0.3 18:32 1.8 G

R 4:18 S 16:45

16 Thu 0:43 7:05 13:06 19:24

0.3 1.7 0.3 1.8

G

R 4:49 S 17:44

5:09 1.7 11:23 0.4 17:37 1.8 G

S 3:28 R 16:10

NOTE: Tauranga tides subtract 50 mins, and Katikati tides subtract 20 mins from the times shown.

Lizard Classifieds

By Gillian MacColl ocal residents will be interested to hear two of our local MPs, Simon Bridges and Todd Muller, presenting at an event in Ōmokoroa in November, hosted by the local Ōmokoroa/Te Puna branch of the National Party.

You can expect to hear fresh insights and strategies from Simon and Todd, and how they plan to continue to support and promote the interests of our local area and the wider Bay of Plenty community.

The event is scheduled for Friday 17th

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November at the Ōmokoroa Community Church Hall from 6 pm.

A two-course dinner with wine, entertainment, and a raffle sponsored by First Choice Ōmokoroa is planned.

Demand is expected to be strong. Tickets are available from representatives of the local Ōmokoroa/Te Puna Branch of the National Party on the following contact details.

The email address is omokoroatepunabranch@gmail.com Or you can call Martin Knudsen 021 939 691, Barrie Smith 548 0312, or Gillian MacColl 027 524 1008.

Mediterranean rack of lamb on potatoes

By Alessandra Zuccheri Ingredients: Ten small potatoes Ten cherry tomatoes Ten Kalamata olives Extra virgin olive oil A six to eight bone rack of lamb Rosemary Garlic Anchovy fillets (optional) Method: Preheat the oven to 190⁰C. Cook the potatoes in boiling water until tender. Meanwhile, chop the tomatoes and take the stones from the olives.

Cut holes on top of the lamb and put inside an anchovy fillet (if using) and a clove of garlic.

Rub it with salt and pepper. Warm olive oil in a large frypan, add the lamb rack and sear it on both sides until golden and put it on a plate.

Mash the potatoes roughly and put them in the frypan and fry for a couple of minutes on medium-low. Stir in the tomatoes and the olives and season with salt and pepper. Put the mixture on a roasting tray and flatten it with a fork. Add the seared lamb on top, add sprigs of fresh rosemary and put it in the oven for 2530 minutes until pink in the middle (add time

if you like it well done). When the meat is cooked, let it rest under tin foil for 5 to 10 minutes. Meanwhile put the potatoes under the grill to crisp them up, cut the roast and serve. Buon Appetito from Amore Ōmokoroa!

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Amore Omokoroa

Now taking bookings for your spring and summer projects.

Genuine Italian cuisine available as pre-cooked meals and takeaways.

Cooking classes our specialty.

Have a special event?

Alessandra can be your personal chef.

FB: Amore Omokoroa Ph: 548 2453 or 021 183 5591

Call Aaron on 027 441 7296 or aaronhook82@gmail.com painting . plastering . finishing

FOR ALL YOUR CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Phone 07 548 1200 WANTED

Ease Pain and Discomfort with Bowen Therapy

Newly-built four bedroom, two bathroom house by Classic Builders on 771sqm fenced section awaits new buyer. Indoor/outdoor flow onto covered portico. Views to Kaimais. Below RV.

Are you suffering from Neck, Shoulder or Knee pain, Sciatica, Tennis Elbow, RSI, Migraines, Chronic Fatigue or any other discomfort?

Bowen Therapy offers a gentle and effective hands-on treatment.

Ph: 548 1439 / 027 628 7310 Trade Me Ref: #1425732791

Call Hannelore on 548-0824 Puzzle Solutions

Word Search Solution

For all your painting/paper hanging requirements, phone Gerard Quilty on 027 447 5493 or 548 1337 after hours.

Christmas is nearly here!

WANTED

Picture frames with an A4 aperture.

Metal, plastic or wood.

With or without mats.

Donations to Ōmokoroa Library & Service Centre or call Liz on 021 069 6657 Sudoku Solution

Str8ts Solution

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Dinner meeting with MPs

Mazda Demio Hatchback

Painter

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The Songsters at their recent end-of-term bash.

WORK WANTED

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FOR SALE

LATE SUMMER TOURNAMENTS doubles & singles Access to courts at other times.

New members welcome!

Call Dallas: 021 663 100

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Call Hannelore on 548-0824

THURSDAY EVENINGS ladies tennis aerobics

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Is your Animal in Pain, having Skin, Eye, Ear problems, Arthritis, Epilepsy, Anxiety or just unwell? Homeopathy and Bowen Therapy offer safe and effective treatments supporting your animal back to health.

WEDNESDAY EVENINGS (summer) – twilight teams

November 2017 | Lizard News |

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Animal Health Care

WEDNESDAY EVENINGS (winter) – casual doubles

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Contact Sonja: 027 548 1960

2 vacancies, 3-year positions Nominations close Friday 17th November at noon.

Contact school office for forms or more information.

Returning Officer Jim Boyes 548 0748

TUESDAY MORNINGS vets, all ages welcome

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Tai chi.

Sat 9-10am, Wed 7-8pm. $3/session.

Board of Trustees Mid-term election

MONDAY MORNINGS ladies interclub

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Mon, Wed, Thu, from 6pm. $45/month, term discounts available.

Join our club in Te Puna for tennis and fun social activities

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Western Ave pavilion, Ōmokoroa.

Fun classes, all ages.

Three weeks free trial for newcomers.

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on our register,” says Heather.

“It brings tears to my eyes to know it’s been this successful. Why stop here? We’re a group with very mobile members. Sometimes people are overseas, but we keep going.”

The evening was made up of several small groups performing particular songs which they’d been practicing. These were followed by the whole team uniting for some favourites.

One highlight was a harmonised rendition of California Dreaming with musical accompaniment from two acoustic guitars, one electric guitar and an upright double bass.

A presentation was also made to Jean and Eddie Taylor, celebrating 55 years of marriage.

TENNIS

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By Matthew Farrell he Ōmokoroa Songsters are back in the groove for the fourth and final term of the school year. The choir tends to observe the holidays to allow for absences caused by those who head for a breakaway, and the many grandparents who enjoy some extra tamariki time.

At the end of term three, a concert was held at the Settlers’ Hall where founding member, Heather Reynolds, looked back on four years of fun.

“When some of you joined us early on, I remember the great excitement of us reaching 20 members. Some of those days we might only have a dozen attend, but we now have 45

PUBLIC NOTICES

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TAEKWONDO & SELF DEFENCE

Songsters in fine voice

PUBLIC NOTICES

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PUBLIC NOTICES

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lizardnews.net

Thumbs-up for lizard in the clouds he eye-catching new roadside billboard for Ōmokoroa has met with a positive response, based on reactions we’ve seen on facebook.com/lizardnews Fresh signs from Western Bay of Plenty District Council have gone up on State Highway 2 here and in Waihī

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Beach, with distinct features of each community.

They reflect Council’s “Portraits of Our Place” theme, so Ōmokoroa is labelled “Peninsula Paradise” while Waihī Beach is branded with “Experience it today”.

Community leaders say the signs are a refreshing and welcome change. Ōmokoroa Community Board chair Murray Grainger says the 10-year-old sign had needed a fresh face for some time.

“The designers have done us proud with the new sign. It not only captures Ōmokoroa but aligns our community with the Western Bay portrait images and themes,” he says.

“It’s great to see Optimist yachts included. The Ōmokoroa Boat Club uses them to train our future generation of world-class sailors - and I am particularly impressed with the way the Ōmokoroa lizard motif has been incorporated in the clouds,” says Murray.

His Waihī Beach counterpart, Allan Sole, is equally as impressed with the new sign for his neck of the woods.

“It depicts what is special about Waihī Beach; a modern town that has retained its feel and values of earlier days. This is a seaside town where you can have a coffee and bite to eat, shop, walk or cycle the streets, tracks and trails, surf the waves or the internet and meet up with friends,’’ says Allan.

Police urge boat owners to secure vulnerable property ay of Plenty Police are warning boat owners to be wary following recent thefts from recreational boats.

There have been a number of thefts in the Western Bay of Plenty area over the last month which Police are investigating.

The offenders have targeted residential properties with boats parked outside with easy access.

“With the arrival of spring and summer fast approaching, this is a timely opportunity to check your security around your boats and home,” says Senior Sergeant Mark Pakes, Area Response Manager.

“The majority of these offences are preventable if owners take the time to secure items such as life jackets, fishing, safety and electronic equipment. These items are valuable and are left lying inside boats that

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(L-R) Alan Murphy and Steve Newlove of Rutherford Signs replacing the District Council billboard at the Ōmokoroa Road/SH2 intersection.

are often insecure or have easy access.”

“Please report any suspicious behaviour to us as soon as you can - we would much rather attend a false alarm, than miss the opportunity to apprehend an offender.”

“People, if they can, should try and thwart thieves by protecting their belongings with anti-theft devices, and by parking boats in garages or carports.”

“It’s also wise to install alarms and good lighting to deter these offenders, and try to keep valuables out of boats if at all possible.”

“If we work together, we can combat this issue.”

Police ask that anybody with information regarding property stolen from boats contact them on 07 577 4300. Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Article supplied.

Every 10 minutes somebody around the world buys a Harcourts property Let our local team show you how we can achieve amazing results for you with our

FREE MARKETING CAMPAIGNS. If you would like to know how to achieve these results give your local Harcourts team a call and letȄs have a chat.

Cathryn & Anton van Breda 07 578 8740 Cathryn: 027 472 7689 Anton: 027 662 1691 cath.vanbreda@harcourts.co.nz

View listings on www.tauranga.harcourts.co.nz

Ron & Patricia Shanks 0800 766 728 Ron: 021 956 270 Pat: 021 804 463 ron.patshanks@harcourts.co.nz

Advantage Realty Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008

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| Lizard News | November 2017