The Eastbourne Herald February 2018

HCC may have rights over private property in proposed plan change

by Carl McRae

Three hundred Eastern Bays property owners could be affected by a proposed District Plan change that may see areas of their land deemed “Significant Natural Areas” (SNAs).

A letter from Hutt City Council senior environmental policy analyst, Joe Jeffries, advises residents who own land that borders East Harbour Regional Park that the council is in the process of identifying sectors of “significant indigenous biodiversity” and is considering how best to protect and manage these areas.

The letter quotes the council’s obligations under the Resource Management Act and says the framework is likely to include rules and restrictions in the District Plan, with a ‘sweetener’- a range of incentives and support for landowners on whose land significant features are identified.

HCC head of district planning Drew Cumming says the properties were identified after initial assessment, but a group of affected ratepayers who met on Tuesday night said the assessessment had been done by “drive bys” and online mapping.

“Importantly,” Mr Cumming said, “council believes there is a moral responsibility here. New Zealand’s indigenous biodiversity is under serious threat, with many species threatened or in decline. Significant habitats still remain and it is

Heritage Trail highlights our history

important that this natural heritage is protected for current and future generations.”

Will Bearman, whose York Bay property is one of those that would fall within the proposed plan change, told a meeting of more than thirty affected land owners that people who wanted to develop their land, "build a second house for their retirement" should ask council planners what the implications of future constraints would be on development.

“This will erode our property rights,” he said. “It’s restricting development with little or no compensation.”

Eastbourne Community Board chair Ginny

Horrocks who was at the meeting with ECB member Anna Sutherland said she only found out about the letter last week when she was approached by a Days Bay resident.

“The ECB still hasn’t been told.”

Mr Bearman asserted that “90 percent” of community board members supported the plan. “I know where your alliances lie,” he told Ginny.

“You have no idea where our alliances lie on this,” she responded. She agreed with those present that they all needed more information from council officers about the plan, and said that last year the board had opposed a plan to Continues Page 3

The Eastbourne Heritage Trail was opened last weekend, featuring information boards throughout Eastbourne. Pictured are Ali Carew George Tuffin, Ginny Horrocks, Dennis Davidson, Margaret Wilson (whose husband took the 1968 photo of the Wahine lifeboat on the beach, with Margaret standing beside it); Alan Collins (Eastbourne’s longest-serving resident, who officially unveiled the display); Murray Gibbons, Mayor Ray Wallace, and Mark Rutherford. Photo: Phil Benge. See story, page 2

Heritage trail opened for business

by Carl McRae

The long awaited opening of the Eastbourne Heritage trail took place on Sunday, February 18, with the public, invited guests and dignitaries taking the opportunity to reflect on the rich history of Eastbourne and the Bays.

During his colourful address to the crowd of around 200, the architect behind the idea, Murray Gibbons said it was tremendous to have taken the idea from the drawing board to fruition and to honour people and events which have shaped our community over many years.

Lower Hutt Mayor Ray Wallace suggested that the trail would not take long to be added to Wellingtons A list of tourist attractions.

ECB Chair Virginia Horrocks said it was so good to see a gathering of ages, with such an interest from young families as well as those with long memories.

“It was a wonderful occasion,” she said. “By the afternoon people were already walking the trail with groups congregating at stands talking enthusiastically. Comments have also been coming in on the superb quality of the photos.”

Ali Carew, on behalf of the Historical Society of Easbourne, said that she hopes the trail will give people a better appreciation of our local history and how much our physical and social environment has changed over the decades. Nearly all the content of the Heritage Trail came from the Historical Society’s own extensive

Next ECB Meeting

Tuesday 3 April 2018 - 7.15pm

East Harbour Women’s Club, Muritai Road

Previous agendas and papers available Council meetings - Home - Hutt City Council

Board members are:

Virginia Horrocks (Chair) virginia.horrocks@huttcity.govt.nz

Murray Gibbons (Deputy chair) murray.gibbons@huttcity.govt.nz

Liz Knight liz.knight@huttcity.govt.nz

Robert Ashe robert.ashe@huttcity.govt.nz

Anna Sutherland anna.sutherland@huttcity.govt.nz

Cr Tui Lewis tui.lewis@huttcity.govt.nz

Cr Michael Lulich michael.lulich@huttcity.govt.nz

archives, or from the collections held by local groups, families and individuals.

“Preserving the past starts with the present,” she says.

“It’s important that our records are maintained and stored safely. Several of the organisations featured in the Trail have their centenaries coming up in the next year or so, and will be drawing on their records and collective memories to tell their stories. We need to make sure those stories are properly preserved.”

Eastbourne’s oldest resident (by longevity in the area), Allan Collins, opened the trail by cutting the ribbon of board number eight, which commemorated the 1924 Invincible All Blacks who trained on Eastbourne Beach.

During his prior speech, Allan had told the audience that where they were seated had been a pine plantation when he was a child and that the beach behind had such a vicious undertow that life guards were placed on duty over the summer months. He remembered large hauls of kingfish being pulled in by fisherman, which the whole community would then race down to see.

Murray Gibbons said is was great for the HSE to be doing what is does best; recording the past for the future.

“When the refurbishment of Rona Bay Wharf has been completed, he said, “we’ll look forward to adding Eastbourne’s police station’s cell block and creating another feature of the trail.”

(S) = Sailing calls at Somes Island, subject to passengers. FERRY FARES EFFECTIVE FROM 1 OCT One way: adult $11, child $6, NZ student $9. Family Days/Petone $61 (Return). 10 trip: adult $87, NZ student $61, child $37. Monthly pass: adult $270, NZ student $199. Matiu Somes Island: adult $23, NZ student $19, child $12, family $67 (Return).

Sailings may be cancelled at short notice due to weather. To check today’s sailings, tel. 494 3339

February Eastbourne Community Board

Come and talk to us

You can now come and talk to us at the start of the formal meeting at 7.15pm about anything that concerns you whether or not it’s on the agenda. You are welcome to make suggestions, give praise, criticise or just come for a chat.

What concerns you?

ECB walkabout – Saturday March 10th

If you would like us to visit to discuss an issue in your street contact your residents’ association or email judy.randall@huttcity.govt.nz

Something need fixing? Report a problem

Report in online at huttcity.govt.nz/rap

This is often better than phoning a Hutt City officer who may not be the person to deal with your problem. If you report it online it is logged and the person responsible has to record the action taken.

Police investigate Days Bay incidents

Police are looking for a man who followed a young girl as she walked away from the bus stop in Days Bay at around 5pm on February 1.

Police are also continuing to follow up on a report from Friday, February 16 that a man had approached a young girl as she was exiting a bus on Marine Drive in Days Bay around 4pm.

Senior Sergeant Brad Allen says it is too early to say if there are links between these two incidents.

"We acknowledge that any report of an

incident of this type would be concerning to parents but we can reassure the community that we are taking these matters very seriously," he says.

Extra Police patrols are being deployed in Days Bay during the key times students are coming and going from school.

Police want to hear from anyone who may have information relating to this incident or any other suspicious activity in the wider Days

Bay area.

If anyone sees anything suspicious occurring, they should not hesitate to call 111.

"We’d like to take this opportunity to remind students and parents/caregivers to: Trust your 'gut instinct'. If you feel uncomfortable, remove yourself from the situation, and tell someone if you feel uncomfortable, unsafe or scared," Snr Sergeant Allen says.

He says if the first person doesn't help, keep trying until someone does.

District Plan changes could affect private property

From Page 1

remove protection from hillside bush.

“This may be replacing that,” she said.

Response to the letter has been mixed. Eastbourne Community Board member Robert Ashe says, “this new initiative from council is the best way to protect this extensive resource after such a prolonged period of development and wide scale vegetation clearance,” he said.

Robert believes that the council has not fulfilled its obligation to the RMA and is duty bound to protect these areas that have been defined as natural heritage.

He understands that the consultation is likely to cause some level of derision, as property owners have real concerns regarding loss of both property value and freedom to do as they wish on their own land.

Meanwhile, other local residents have implored people not to allow council officers onto their properties. Some believe the intention is to re-zone land, so as to restrict the potential for any future development.

But Robert says the bush is “a jewel” and a part of the unique beauty of Eastbourne and surrounds. What are presently initial enquiries

will almost certainly be twenty years in the implementation, he says. He is hopeful a happy compromise can be reached between land owners and the council.

“At the end of the day what is the bigger vision for Eastbourne? As a community, what do we want? Do we not want to see protections in place from property boundaries that extend right up to the ridge line?”

He believes the incentives that the HCC will bring to the table will be reduced rates. Under the aegis of the RMA, regional councils are required to review their district plans every ten years. In 2008, the Greater Wellington Regional Council identified and wished to re-zone land in Eastbourne they deemed to be of “regional significance”.

As a result of a meeting between the ECB, the GWRC, HCC and private land owners, the proposed draft was removed from the Wellington Regional Policy Statement.

Currently, there are only limited safeguards in the council’s District Plan for these landscapes and ecological and coastal areas and the consultation process is part of its work to strengthen protections for the regions natural

Eastbourne

heritage, native plant and animal species.

“The protection of these valuable natural areas is likely to include constraints on what affected landowners can do,” says Drew Cumming.

“This could include earthworks, the placement of new buildings and driveways in sensitive areas and vegetation clearance.”

“There is likely to be a range of support and incentives made available to landowners to protect the SNA’s,” he adds.

“Additional development rights in exchange for their protection, rates relief and free or discounted materials, such as traps, for the use of ecological protection and enhancement.”

At Tuesday’s meeting, local farmer John Martin urged people to stick together, and even put a “fighting fund” together.

He told those gathered that more than ten years ago a farm-wide SNA was removed from his land following a court decision.

“It doesn’t matter if you’ve got a lot of land, or a little bit of land - it’s your land,” he said.

The issue is affecting many areas of the country, including nearby western hills, Wainuiomata and Kapiti communities.

Big water action first stage of Pacific Windsurf Cup

What started out as an embryonic conversation a few years ago between local windsurf enthusiast Bruce Spedding and his mate Laurence Carey is not only set to bring some colour and big water action to our back door step, it’s primed to become an international event.

Now, New Zealand’s highest ranked PWA World Tour representative and Pacific Champion, 23 year old Laurence says the plans that have already been put in place for ‘Waterbourne’, New Zealand’s premier extreme water sport event, and the quality of competition that will arrive from around the country and overseas will ensure that the growing event becomes a staple in not only Eastbourne, but on the world stage.

“It will be the first stage of the 2018 Pacific Windsurf Cup,” says Laurence, “bringing sailors from Tahiti, New Caledonia, Australia and Hawaii together as they fight to get qualification for the ‘PWA World Tour’.

To be crowned Waterbourne champion, sailors will not only have to perform in slalom racing but also in the all new 'Waterbourne Ocean Clash' providing a whole new dimension to the title (New Zealand citizens will also be fighting for their national ranking).”

Bishop Park will again be the venue. A market area to compliment the nearby village should attract a large group of spectators over the three days and the event will extend into the evening with live entertainment.

Since being first promoted in the January edition of the Eastbourne Herald, Laurence can confirm that further aspects have been set in concrete and he is excited to announce that some top Kiwi acts will be taking to the stage, including Laughton Kora (the lead singer of Kora), Dick Johnson and High Hoops (a member of ‘Leisure’, currently gaining world wide recognition).

“It’s going to be an amazing event,” Laurence says, “we’re hoping and are certain that the local Eastbourne people will get right behind us.

The live performances should set the mood onshore, and the food and drink available should ensure everyone can stay for the duration of the day. The shoreline offers the best viewing platform to take in the action while also having the opportunity to give it a go yourself.”

Bruce Spedding believes that the commercial benefits to the Hutt Valley could be significant, both in tourism opportunities and also in attracting skilled people with lifestyle priorities.

“The windsurfing will again feature high speed downwind racing,” he says, “perfect for Eastbourne’s wind and water. Last years event attracted top professional sailors from all around the globe, and we are expecting even more interest this time around.”

Local residents will get to see first hand, some outstanding exponents of their craft. Amongst those competing will be kiwi’s Jack Holliday (2nd in the Pacific Windsurf Cup in 2017 and NZ Vice Pacific Champion), Marc Jacobs (Ten times NZ Kiteboard Champion and 2013 and 2015 Vice World Champion), foil kiteboarder, Sam Bullock (NZ Hydrofoil champ and seventh on the 2017 World Tour) and the Australian National Champion, Frenchman Max Gaubert.

Jack Holliday says that he is looking forward very much to returning to Eastbourne for this years event.

“The level of competition, having the International guys there makes all the difference,” he said.

“Every heat was full on last year, really tight racing and it was just such a good time as well, we all had a good night in Wellington, it’s an amazing place and being the windiest city in the world, for us it can’t get much better.”

Included in this years calendar is kiteboarding and stand-up paddling (SUP) and Bruce says the event will be unique in combining all three disciplines in one area at the same time, including a combined race between Petone and Eastbourne, a spectacle never attempted in New Zealand.

“The kiteboarders will be going for aerial tricks,” he says, “combining height, duration of flight and free style moves to decide the winner. Paddle board racers will compete in a series of races each day ending with a long ‘downwinder’ to finish off.”

“All the events are intended to encourage participation by anyone reasonably confident on the water,” Bruce adds, “you don't have to

be a professional or a hot shot to take part - and you can be sure you'll get heaps of support from the other participants, the social aspects of these sports are as important as the activities themselves.”

“Overall,” he concludes, “the event should be an exciting addition to Eastbourne, showcasing our great community and hopefully encouraging more to ‘give it a try’. I hope it will generate enough interest to perhaps explore further development of support and resources to help locals, especially the younger people, to try some of these awesome activities.”

Laurence says that the ‘Paddle for Hope’ will add a whole new dimension to proceedings, a relay race charity event where everyone dresses in pink, jump on paddleboards and raise some much-needed funds for cancer rehabilitation. He hopes that they can raise $20,000.

Waterbourne: Eastbourne

Friday March 30-Sunday April 1

Authorised by C. Bishop, 66 Bloomfield Tce, L. Hutt

Bonjour, Tartine!

Early days sees fridge well used

Camille Furminieux is hoping to bring a little corner of France to Eastbourne with her new Village Corner cafe, Tartines.

Camille has worked in hospitality for 15 years, and when she decided to open her own cafe, the Village Corner sprang to mind - her old flatmate, Urska, used to run Gisele's Cafe there. It seemed like a good fit for a French cafe."The courtyard suits a French cafe," she says.

Coming from South East France, near Avignon, she's not a chef, but colleague Emmanuelle Souche is passionate about pastry, and Camille decided the pair needed to work together on the new venture.

Camille says local people have been very welcoming, and she was given flowers and even Champagne when the cafe opened.

She's hoping in winter to do a dinner service once a week, and thinks the space would be good for language practice for young and old.

"I'm happy for people to try their French out on us."

An initiative to give excess food to others is proving popular. Organiser Finola Rance says she had the idea when she saw people's posts on the community Facebook page about wanting to give away their excess home grown vegetables. With a donated fridge from Coca Cola, she found a venue at St Ronan's Church, and the fridge was switched on last month. At the official opening last weekend, Finola said that, although there is a lot of wealth in the Eastern Bays, there are also people who struggle, and while one of the objectives of the project is to share fresh produce round, another is to help those who are struggling financially. Any canned or non-perishable foods left in the fridge are for people who really need them, and if any of these are left over, they will be given to the Common Unity Project in Epuni. This hasn't happened yet, with the fridge emptied every couple of days. Finola says any leftover fresh produce cannot be donated to the projects once it has been in the community fridge.

"I grew up here," Finola says. "I know there are people in need. The prevalence of that need may not be as great as in other places, but I wanted to do something that I could manage locally."

Finola checks the fridge every two days.

"It's something small I could do that would help the community and the environment."

The community fridge is located next to St Ronan's Church.

Helen Renor Funeral Director Stephanie van Campfort Embalmer Funeral Director

Sinclair

Funeral Services

Sandy Lang and Finola Rance with some of the fridge's contents.

Emmanuelle Souche and Camille Furminieux.

W2W and Eastbourne Games held on same day

by Carl McRae

The popular annual Wharf to Wharf event will be held this year on March 4. The 1.25km marathon swim is believed to have begun during the 1930s and traditionally was an affair between the Eastbourne, Petone and Naenae swim clubs, with Wainuiomata joining them not long after its inception.

In 1955, the Muritai Shield was introduced and competitors from the associated swim clubs competed for the trophy annually until 1992. But 16 time winner of the Kenny Cup (first swimmer home), Ray Gough from Point Howard (pictured right), says the abolition of the old shield is just one of the many changes he’s seen in his 50 plus years involvement in the race.

“I first started swimming the Wharf to Wharf in the late 60s,” says Ray. “In those days everyone put in a 440 yards time (which had to be under 9 minutes) and then began in a staggered start according to their off course times.”

“Everyone had to pass a medical with Dr Chris Saville in the Plunket Rooms,” Ray says. “Firstly to see how long people could hold their breath and then the stethoscope would come out to determine whether a heartbeat registered. I don’t think Chris ever failed anyone.”

Ray and a few other competitors would then warm up for the event by swimming from Rona Wharf to Days Bay.

The ex-New Zealand swimmer and Wellington rep from 1966-1974 says that 11 of his 16 victories were back to back. In 1970 he also set the world record for the Kapiti Island swim, which still stands to this day.

Ray is still the chief coach at the Eastbourne Pool and in his 38 years in the role, says he has always encouraged kids to do the Wharf to Wharf and believes that in that time hundreds would have entered the race.

“I always wanted to coach someone who actually won the Wharf to Wharf,” Ray said, “and twelve year old Finola Rance was able to do that for me some years back. She was tremendous to coach. She had a most efficient stroke and would train all year round".

Ray credits Finola’s mum, Alex Dennehy,

with saving the club that same year when it almost folded. Over this current summer, the club has a new record number of members, in excess of 150.

In what will probably be a one off’ owing to the bottleneck of events happening in the Bays during the first quarter of the year, the 2018 Wharf to Wharf swim will be run in conjunction with the Eastbourne Games, where some swimmers will be also attempting to accrue points for their Bay.

Organiser Mandy Holmwood says that while she has no real objection regarding the two events being run simultaneously this year, she hopes the Wharf to Wharf can retain its own unique identity, especially from an historical point of view, the race itself going on eighty years old.

“The trouble is,” she says, "like always, we’re all drawing from the same pool of volunteers. We’d love to see some new people come forward, get some new faces on the (W2W) committee. Anyone keen to come and pitch in for the longer term are most welcome to get in touch. Come and talk to us on the day, it’s such a wonderful event to be involved with.”

Once again this year, Ray, the legend of the Wharf to Wharf, has been asked to hand out the prizes at the races conclusion.

Eastbourne Herald March deadlines

Booking: Wed March 14

Copy: Thurs March 15

Deliveries: March 23/24

editor@eastbourneherald.co.nz 562 7500

Popular teacher recognised

Pencarrow Rotary has donated $1,000 towards relief efforts in Tonga, following the devastation caused by Cyclone Gita. Spokesman Michael Powles says the money will go towards emergency response kits, and providing food and safe drinking water in the kingdom.

It's not too late to think about entering the Wild Food competition this weekend. Held at The Pavilion in Days Bay, it's running from 11am-9pm and will include live music, and will be followed by an outdoor movie, Hunt for the Wilderpeople.

With the upcoming 50th anniversary of the Wahine disaster, organisers are on the lookout for photographs. If you have any original photos taken during the Wahine disaster which could be scanned and used for the 50th anniversary exhibition at Muritai School in April, please contact Ali Carew, phone 562-8880, or email alicarewnz@gmail.com

Five local people have received Eastbourne Community Awards from the Eastbourne Community Board. Avi Duckor-Jones, Lindsay Johnson, Makaro Press, Maureen Buckley (pictured above) and Sally Bain. Maureen, who has taught more than 1,000 local children, has been with Muritai school since 2002 as the Head of the Junior School and Deputy Principal. "Maureen is passionate about her role as an educator and personally oversees the transition of all children from pre-school through their first year of school at Muritai". Among other things she has introduced support for children with high needs, the Letterland programme to support the learning of alphabet sound knowledge which has supported the continued high attainment levels in literacy in the Junior School. Maureen introduced photography on iPads in class last year and was delighted one of her photographic entries won first place out of over 500 entries from throughout New Zealand in the MADE (Media and Digital Excellence) awards. "Maureen is well known to many families in the Eastbourne community for her unflagging support of both the school and community events but above all her love of education and care of children, her kind, caIm approach has been most welcome to families navigating the start to school and Maureen’s leadership of the junior school has been a tremendous gift to the wider Eastbourne community."

OPEN DAYS

Friday 9 March 9am – 12pm

Sunday 11 March 10am – 2pm

www.qmc.school.nz

At the moment there is a couple here from Scotland who are studying our dragonflies at Parangarahu Lakes and I thought I would tell you at bit about what they are finding.

One of the Dragonflies that has been observed is the New Zealand bush giant dragonfly (Kapokapowai), endemic to New Zealand. The Maori name means "water snatcher" alluding to the water-dwelling larva, which, like all dragonflies, has a long extendable jaw that shoots out to snatch prey.

The yellow and black body can be up to 86 mm long, with a wingspan up to 130 mm, making it the largest dragonfly in New Zealand. Its diet is smaller insects, including cicadas and beetles. The nymphs tunnel into the soft earth of a stream bank or seepage, where they occupy a chamber half-filled with water for about five to seven years. They emerge at night to seek prey near the burrow entrance. They are sensitive to disturbance so are rarely observed. They have probably flown down from the bush to find mates in the lakes area. They are slow and loud flies and can easily be spotted due to their size. They are preyed on by rats, kingfishers and even wasps.

So far they think they have identified seven different dragonfly species down at the Parangarahu Lakes so next time you are walking or biking around the lakes stop and have a look to see if you can find one.

Also of note is that the track from Muritai Lookout to the top is almost completed. The track crew has joined the bottom to the top but they still need to do the final shaping, run offs and track surfaces. They will also reshape the lookout at the MacKenzie - Muritai junction and reposition the seat to make it bit easier for those of us with short legs to sit on.

- Mark McAlpine - Park Ranger

Gross mystery act puzzles walkers

Sage Pettus (pictured) and her mum Sarah are scratching their heads over a growing number of bags full of dog poo that have been left at the start of the Kowhai Street track. The pair regularly walk in the park, and say they made the revolting discovery after Sage left the track to hide from her mum one day. "I thought ewww," Sage says. The large pile of bags, semi hidden behind a log, is the second such find the Pettus' have made, and they say that, while someone is doing a good job picking the droppings up, leaving them in the bush is not the answer. Sarah Pettus says the answer is for the council to install a rubbish bin at the beginning of the Kowhai Street path. In the meantime, she has been taking the bags home and putting them in her own rubbish bin.

Downes returns to the local stage

Multi-award winning actor and Director, Catherine Downes, is back in Eastbourne this month and in daily rehearsals for a season of Joanna Murray Smith’s Switzerland, which will have its New Zealand premiere at Circa Two on March 17.

The highly acclaimed psychological thriller explores the story of celebrated Texan crime writer Patricia Highsmith. The chilling and sometimes witty two-hander sketches the final chapter in the life of the controversial Highsmith, whose religious and political views often teetered into outright anti-Semitism.

Catherine will star along side young Wellington actor Simon Leary in the play's run from March 17-April 14.

Between now and then, Catherine says that she is enjoying being back home with her mother in Eastbourne and is working hard to have the show ready by opening night.

Call 04 939 2366

www.jaglegal.co.nz

From NZ Idol to European folk sensation

by Carl McRae

Teresa Bergman caused more than a local ripple when she made the top five of New Zealand Idol as an 18 year old in 2005. The young woman clearly had bucket loads of talent and had indeed been writing songs since she was a nine year old. So many contestants on those sort of ‘five minutes of fame’ talent shows disappear by the wayside, never to be heard of again in the harsh and often false world of entertainment.

Not so Teresa. She did complete an MA in political science, but such was her passion for music and her desire to be a full-time musician, she took the leap of faith and decided to dedicate herself completely to it.

Teresa has spent the past seven years living in the culturally vibrant city of Berlin and in that time she has also performed in Switzerland, Austria and Denmark.

“I had to do what my heart told me and I had total clarity with what I was doing,” Teresa said. “It was still a lot of hard work. An artist’s visa in Germany basically meant I had no work rights outside of artistic pursuits, so I jumped into the ring of fire and spent the first year there living 100 percent off busking.”

While doing so, she managed to sell 8,000 copies of her Teresa Bergman EP and eventually topped up her income with live performances.

Although a tough baptism, she says there were advantages; compared with other countries in Western Europe, living costs in Berlin are cheaper and as a cultural hotspot, there are many other artists to interact with.

Teresa was hailed Berlin’s Best Street Musician by Zitty - the city’s most widely read entertainment magazine. This was certainly of some help as she looked to put a band and a management team together. "Now I have that support in place with a booking agent, management and publisher. The next record will be released with German label Jazzhaus Records,” she says.

Teresa has now given hundreds of concerts in Europe and she and her band have featured at some of Berlin’s most prestigious jazz clubs such as Quasimodo and Atrane. She has played the European festival circuit in cities such as Frankfurt, Mainz and Bayreuth.

In 2017, she played two big showcase festivals - in Hamburg the Reeperbahn Festival and the prestigious Jazzahead Festival in Bremen. She describes opening for 1970s disco legends Earth, Wind & Fire in Göttingen as "pretty epic".

She also released her debut album, Bird of a Feather in Berlin as well as a new single in 2017 - Tui Sings Blue. She’s been back in New Zealand for the first time in three years, with her eclectic stylistic fusion of acoustic-folk, funk and jazz, doing a solo acoustic tour of the North Island.

“It was great to catch up with family,” she said. “Eastbourne is such a lovely place to come back to. It’s like a time lapse, stability, nothing changes. I grew up here and the thing I miss the most is the beach. I’m always in the water.”

Over in Germany she says Lorde, Fat Freddy’s Drop and Flight of the Conchords are the best known New Zealand acts.

Teresa is heading back to Berlin to record her new album, to be released at the start of 2019. "I’ll tour that throughout Europe before heading home for a full NZ album release tour with my wonderful band."

http://www.teresabergman.com/shop/products/

EFC preps for big anniversary

by Carl McRae

In his 1992 Chairman's Report, preparing for the Eastbourne FC’s upcoming 25th anniversary, Jim McKinlay wrote; “One evening in the local RSA, it was suggested a soccer club be formed in Eastbourne. This caused much laughter from some of the members, who estimated a three week survival rate. Well, here we are 25 years later and going from strength to strength.”

Another twenty five years on, current Chairman, Mike Smith says it’s a big year for the club and they look forward to celebrating their 50th year in existence.

“It’s a big occasion for such a small club,” says Mike, “but the organising committee are intent on doing justice to the club and to pay homage to all those who’ve played significant roles in making the EFC such a success thus far.”

The football club was formed in April of 1968, when some local kids put pressure on their parents to do so, instead of the youngsters having to travel into the Hutt or Petone to have a game. As Jim eluded to, there was some considerable opposition to the proposal, largely based around an opinion than ‘soccer’ was not really a man’s sport.

Times have changed however and in 2017, the Eastbourne FC was the biggest sporting club in the Bays, whilst also having the dubious distinction of being Wellington’s smallest football club. The club had a senior and two ‘Masters’ sides - and have in fairly recent times had some very good Women’s teams - but the stronghold is still at junior level, where player members are greater than either rugby or cricket.

The call has gone out via the clubs web and Facebook page, urging all former players and administrators interested to register their support for the half-century celebrations, which will be held on Saturday, June 30th.

PHOTO: The 1971, Eastbourne FC's 9th Grade side. The club is hoping some old faces will return to help celebrate their 50th year.

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The owners of this iconic Sir Ian Athfield designed house recently expanded their enviable portfolio of architectural gems. As a result they have relocated and now o er you the chance to experience the joy of their treasured home. Built in the 1970s it brims with distinctive design details and original character that have been meticulously maintained. The three bedrooms, two living rooms and spacious open plan kitchen/dining room are connected by a cylindrical staircase set in one of two reinforced double-brick and concrete towers. The interior layout nurtures both intimacy and sociability. Great sunshine and exhilarating, uninterrupted views throughout are just part of what makes this a compelling choice. Located between Eastbourne’s vibrant village and Days Bay, where a commuter ferry is a 20 minute ride to the CBD, the location doesn’t get much better. Call me to view soon - this is a one-o and our motivated vendors are seriously in the market to sell.

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VIEW ONLINE: www.justpaterson.co.nz/JP1221

EASTBOURNE 3B/39 Marine Parade

In a leafy enclave just moments from the beach, this well crafted, contemporary home is both a private haven and the perfect place to share with family and friends. With dramatic design detail the property unfolds over three floors. At the top is a luxurious master suite and lovely water views. A guest suite is privately located on the ground floor. Expanses of glass set in double height walls frame the beautiful, natural surrounds and the outlook to blue skies, lush greenery and a proliferation of native birds. With four bedrooms, three bathrooms, open plan family living, plus sitting room and a separate study there is much to love. The solidity of a concrete block lower floor, timber framing above, a double internal access garage, great flow to outdoor living spaces and much, much more...you must view to appreciate the rare and exciting opportunity that our overseas vendors o er for sale.

EASTBOURNE xxxx address

CONTACT: Kim Slessor 027 230 3328

BY NEGOTIATION: Buyer Enquiry From $1,230,000

VIEW ONLINE: www.justpaterson.co.nz/JP1189

EASTBOURNE 107 Muritai Road

Fantastic Family Home + Income

Our vendor, who has enjoyed life at Marina Court for 8 years has now left to follow her heart and is motivated to sell. There has never been a better time to buy at Marina Court, with a series of improvements almost complete - and all paid for! Steps from Bishop Park, the beach and Eastbourne’s vibrant village this one bedroom apartment enjoys brilliant year round sun and is fresh, bright and beautifully presented. The view is uninterrupted, ever changing and always a thrill. The recently remodelled shower room o ers sheer luxury with underfloor heating. The carpet is new and the front windows are double glazed. There is a covered carport and storage unit for your convenience, too. And all for this price - what are you waiting for?

EASTBOURNE xxxx address

Call me today to view.

CONTACT: Kim Slessor 027 230 3328

FIXED PRICE: $338,000

VIEW ONLINE: www.justpaterson.co.nz/JP1241

This superb property is an exciting discovery of grand proportions, great location, sunshine and style. Throughout its 417 sqm (approx) interior there is a sense of calm and tranquility that comes from a blend of quality architecture, grace and character. Pristinely presented, it o ers five large bedrooms, including a gorgeous master suite with a sea view and private deck. A separate study serves as a sixth bedroom if required and a pleasant two bedroom self-contained flat provides an array of options. Close to the beach, between Eastbourne Village and Days Bay, you and your children will walk to everywhere - including schools and the commuter ferry to the CBD or Seatoun. The double garage is super spacious and the flat 809 sqm grounds are superbly landscaped so you can enjoy the outdoors all year round. This is a truly special property in a highly sought after area; it has to be seen to be fully appreciated so call me today and prepare to be impressed.

CONTACT: Kim Slessor 027 230 3328

BY NEGOTIATION: Buyer Enquiry from $1,675,000

VIEW ONLINE: www.justpaterson.co.nz/JP1185

Contributor to realestate.co.nz

Mondays

• Retired Persons’ Assn 4th Mon. Ph 5627365.

• “Baby Bounce & Rhyme” at the library 10.30am.

• Singalong 1st Mon, 2pm at St Ronan’s.

• DB Playcentre Mon, Wed, Fri 9-12. Andrea Jensen 02102797311.

• Pt Howard Playcentre. Mon 9.15 -11.45am. Morag 021 150-7997.

• Historical Society of Eastbourne local studies room open above the library 2-4 pm every Monday.

• Eastbourne Volunteer Fire Brigade training every Monday 7-9pm. Ph Ross Carroll Chief Fire Officer 562 7001 for more info.

• Rotary Pencarrow meets 6.30pm Lowry Bay Yacht Club, Seaview - phone Don 562 7409.

• Toy Library 8-9pm. Kathryn 562 6271. www.eastbournemibase.com.au

• Eastbourne Karate Dojo junior and senior classes (children 8 year & older, plus parents) on Monday and senior classes on Thursday. Contact lindsaysensei@live.com, cell 021 844 873.

Tuesdays

• Pt Howard Playcentre Tues 9.15 -11.45am. Morag 021 150-7997.

• Days Bay Playcentre Puddle Jumpers Tues 10:30 to 12 noon: Messy and Sensory play for children 2 years and under. Casual sessions, $3 donation.

• Muritai Tennis Club 9.30–noon. Merryn 562 0236.

• Eastbourne Homebirth Group 1st Tuesday of the month. Phone Kate 5627096.

• East Harbour Women’s Club Morning Tea & Chat Group 10am. Contact Glendyr 562 7181.

• Eastbourne Embroidery Group, St Ronan’s Church lounge 10am-12noon.

WHAT’S ON

• Poetry group, every second Tuesday meet to read and enjoy poems old and new. Phone 562 8387.

• Toy Library 9.30am-10.30am. Kathryn 562 6271. www.eastbournemibase.com. au

Wednesdays

• Library preschool story time 2–2.25pm.

• Pt Howard Playcentre Wed 9.15 -11.45am. Morag 021 150-7997.

• Scottish Country Dance. Merryn 562 0236.

• Bridge Club 7-10pm. Shona 562 7073.

• DB Playcentre Mon, Wed, Fri 9-12. Andrea Jensen 02102797311.

Thursdays

• St Ronan’s Mainly Music, 9.30am10.30am, contact Cathy 027 213 9342.

• SPACE at Days Bay Playcentre. Michelle 971 8598.

East Harbour Women’s Club

New Members Welcome Card Groups (weekly)

- Bolivia 12.45pm

Contact Glendyr ph: 562 7181 - Bridge 1.00pm

Contact Heather ph: 562 7995 Guest Speaker (3rd week of month)

7.00pm - Drinks and nibbles provided Contact Diane ph: 562 7555

•Lions meet 2nd Thursday of the month at the Eastbourne Sports and Services Club, Tuatoru St 6.30 pm. New members and visitors are welcome. Graham 562 8819.

• Eastbourne Karate Dojo junior and senior classes (children 8 year & older, plus parents) on Monday and senior classes on Thursday. Contact lindsaysensei@live.com, cell 021 844 873.

Fridays

• St Alban’s Pop in and Play, at St Ronan’s Church Hall, 9am-11.30am,

contact Stefi 021 178 2099.

• Pt Howard Playcentre Fri 9.15 -11.45am. Morag 021 150-7997.

• AA Plunket Rooms 7.30pm. Mark 566 6444/ Pauline 562 7833

• DB Playcentre Mon, Wed, Fri 9-12. Andrea Jensen 02102797311.

• Discovery Time for 4years+ at San Antonio School, 78 Oroua Street, 9.3010.30am. Office 562 7398.

Saturdays

• Justice of the Peace at the Eastbourne Community Library, first Saturday of each month 12pm-1pm.

• Lions’ rubbish bin last Saturday of each month.

• Croquet from 10.00am Muritai Croquet Club. Lyn 562 8722 or Val 562 8181.

• Historical Society of Eastbourne local studies room open above the library 11am - Noon on Last Saturday every month.

• Eastbourne Dunes Group meets 2nd Sat of each month.https://www. coastalrestorationtrust.org.nz/coastcaregroups/eastbourne-dune-care/156/ Sundays

• Church services - see page 28.

• AA Plunket Rooms 10am. Pauline 562 7833.

Six directors for Bard in the Yard

What impact does direction have on the performance of Shakespeare? The idea is explored in the Butterfly Theatre Troupe’s latest production Trials and Tribulations which stitches together a patchwork of scenes from nine different Shakespeare plays, directed by six different directors.

In a break from the usual full-length Shakespeare productions, this year the troupe is harking back to the founding days of Bard In The Yard when people gathered together in John Marwick’s back garden to share scenes.

Now John has put together a selection of scenes with a common theme from Shakespeare’s well known, and not so well known plays.

It’s not only an exploration of the diversity of Shakespeare’s work (from the historical Henry VI to the tragedy of Othello, with a smattering of comedy from Much Ado About Nothing in between), but also an exploration of the diversity of ways in which his plays can be interpreted.

While all six directors have worked together to ensure the production flows as a whole, each has been given free rein to bring their own creative visions to their scenes.

“One of the reasons I wanted to do this is to bring in new directors with new ideas… and they’re doing some interesting stuff,” John says, “It’s great to have some fresh and younger perspective.”

Four out of six of the directors (Lian Butcher, Anne Manchester, Anna Rodgers and Laurence Ward) have never directed before, although all have previously acted for the troupe.

“It’s very interesting being on the other side,” Lian says. “Having to think about how the whole scene looks and how the different players come together instead of just your own bit.”

Lian is directing four scenes from Henry VI that tell the story of Joan of Arc. She’s chosen to

keep with a medieval time setting for her scenes.

“I didn’t want to take away the impact Joan of Arc had at the time of a young woman leading men into battle,” Lian says. “Now it would be ‘wow’, but back then it was really wow. Making it modern would have taken away the impact of that.”

The time settings and costuming chosen by the different directors for their scenes are the most obvious illustration of the impact the different directors have had on their scenes; each has chosen a different era.

Laurence has chosen a “dream-like” setting for his scene from A Winter’s Tale , while 16 year-old Anna (the Butterfly Theatre Troupe’s youngest director yet) opted for a simple timeless setting for her Henry VI scene, “partly because it’s my first time directing, partly because it’s easy to follow".

Emanuel Garcia is directing the production’s final scene, an adapted climactic scene from Othello in which Othello, tricked by Iago into thinking his wife has been unfaithful, prepares to kill her.

Emanuel has also opted for a timeless setting with simple costumes that transcend the ages and barefoot actors: “very primitive, primal”. He doesn’t like to stage Shakespeare plays in a different time setting because he finds a dissonance between the setting and the language.

Conversely, Anne has chosen a contemporary style and modern costumes for the two scenes from the Henry IV plays she is directing. Anne believes a modern-style staging allows an audience to relate more quickly and the themes to become very immediate.

- Trials and Tribulations: Muritai School Yard, 7.30pm Tuesday 27 February - Saturday 3 March. Tickets $18, $15 (concessions) available from Rona Gallery, Eastbourne or online at www.bctt.org.nz.

Kate Lynskey has nobly taken on the role as Team Captain for the Pt Howard team to compete in the 2018 Eastbourne Community Games being held at Williams Park, Days Bay on Sunday 4 March. There are 20 events catering to all age groups including Egg Toss, Paddle Board Challenge, Dog Obedience, Pavlova Race, Ready Steady Cook, Croquet, Big Dig, Brainbenders, Raft Race, Mystery Event and much more… Please txt Kate 021 024 09589 to confirm your selection on the team. The Wharf2wharf swim is being held in conjunction with the games.

Over the summer, residents on the western side of the hill have been suffering ongoing noise issues from Seaview. It is not just one thing but a series of different issues relating to events, industrial activities and the marina. Sometimes the noises have been very early in the morning or late at night. The committee scheduled a meeting with HCC but unfortunately this was cancelled at short notice and advice of a new date is awaited. Hopefully the council will take notice of concerns and take steps to resolve the issues.

Email contact: pthowardassn@gmail.com

News from Point Howard

What an amazing, endless summer. I’m sure the weather will remain perfect into early Autumn. We at Professionals have also had an amazing summer welcoming new families/folks into our great piece of paradise. We still however have qualified purchasers looking to secure, in particular 3-4-bedroom homes. Eastbourne and the Bays is still commanding strong appeal even on a 30 degree day, and rightly so. If the thought of selling has crossed your mind this side of Christmas, first things first, would a no obligation market appraisal be of interest to you? The time feels right! Feel free to give me a call.

4 Whiorau Grove , Eastbourne

13 Russo Terrace , Eastbourne

75 Howard Road, Eastbourne 3/8 Nikau Road, Eastbourne 17 Howard Road, Eastbourne

2/8 Nikau Road , Eastbourne 607a Marine Drive , Eastbourne

1/8 Nikau Road, Eastbourne 15 Howard Road, Eastbourne

Plea to ECB to change its skate decision

Our Community Board probably believe the skateboard park can now be forgotten - they have made a unanimous decision. They chose the San Antonio site despite its drawbacks - the most serious being the proximity of houses where people live their lives. But for us the issue is far from finished and never will be. Here are just some of the injustices that we will have to live with.

We have recently heard on good authority that if we wanted to sell up and move, the majority of prospective buyers would immediately reject the idea due to the closeness of a skateboard park. Who wants to live next to one of those, not just the noise factor but the social ills that it will attract. Don't laugh it has happened previously - yes booze and drugs as well. A few days ago I witnessed a drug transaction in the car park next door to the chosen site.

Yes, difficult to sell to a reduced market means the value of our properties has been eroded. How do you think that feels? Did the CB take this into account when they made their decision. If they didn't think it, then they are dumb., and if they did, that paints them in a worse light.

Now for a little inconsistencies in their thought processes : I recall that one of the main reasons for them rejecting two other viable sites was the closeness of trees which would shed their leaves, and would need trimming back . If you have examined the plans of the area to be developed you will see trees, trees, and more trees to be planted around the skate park, to mitigate the unpleasant sound produced. Unfortunately the structures have first to be built before this theory can be tested, and the trees have to be growing and alive. Good luck to the trees then. If we are subject to more very hot weather conditions they will struggle to live.

Water restrictions if applied will only exacerbate their struggle. I know about this having fought to keep the shrubs and flaxes we have planted on the dunes alive this summer. In case the Board members have forgotten the Council delegates certain powers to Community Boards based on principles, one of which involves 'minimizing risks.' The above all involve an element of risk i.e. bad behaviour, that the sound generated by the activity will be intolerable, and that the trees, if they survive will shed their leaves all over the ramp.

The hard-hearted members of our Community Board must be lacking in empathy and any basic caring for their fellow human beings. Involved are elderly persons, two recently widowed women, people living alone and generally people who deserve a quiet hasslefree life. All 54 people who signed a petition opposing this development have been completely ignored. I ask the CB what have they to say to these people, citizens, ratepayers? And how come they have ignored their own Statement of Principles in particular clauses 3 - 'A community in which citizens care and respect each other's differences and right to quiet enjoyment of their surroundings; and 6.- ' A community concerned for the welfare of the young and old where the elderly may retire in dignity, where families have access to facilities to raise their children in an environment which promotes safety and wellbeing; We have heard absolutely nothing about how they square this with their consciences. They have given no credence to our constant statement that WE ARE NOT AGAINST SKATEBOARDING BUT WE ARE DEAD AGAINST THE SITE THAT HAS BEEN CHOSEN. It is high time this difference got over people's thresholds. The young men who spoke at the final meeting all spoke well, but it was merely a paean to the benefits of skateboarding, not one of them addressed our concerns.

review of The Community Board later this year to explore other ways to be represented. I shall be happy to contribute to this.

STILL NOT TOO LATE TO THINK AGAIN!

David and Judith McDougall Eastbourne

ECB response:

Members of the Eastbourne Community Board consulted widely and at length before making their decision on the location of the proposed mini skate ramp. Under local government legislation one of the Board’s functions is to promote recreational facilities and opportunities with a view to ensuring maximum usage. The chosen site is zoned for recreational activity and the metre high ramp is designed mainly for 7-10 year olds.

Before the final decision Hutt City Council tested the anticipated noise levels which will be within permitted limits. Further steps are planned to reduce any disturbance to neighbours. There will be planting to cushion any sound reflected from the surrounding walls and a chain will close off the ramp at night.

We expect this ramp will make a rather neglected area more attractive, family friendly and fun for the Eastbourne community.

Virginia Horrocks ( Chair Eastbourne Community Board )

The site was suggested for a skateboard park back in 2001/2003 but the idea was rejected, and rightly so. SO

WHAT HAS CHANGED?

By the way, we have noticed that there is to be a

LOW COST COUNSELLING

WELLESLEY EASTER GALA

March

Another date for the diary during this hectic beginning to 2018 is March 11, when the first Wellesley Gala will be held since November 2015.

Organiser Jo Healey says there has been fantastic support from the community and with a number of local sponsors lined up, this year looks set to be a great success. The gala has the festive theme of Easter and visitors can enjoy good old-fashioned favourites like the coconut shy, lucky dip, a huge garage sale, face painting, paintball duck shooting, plate smashing, teachers in detention, sports games, bouncy castles and of course the usual delicious food and deli stalls. The school holds it gala every second year, managed by the parents’ association and made successful by enthusiastic involvement of all the school community. Funds from this year’s event will go toward the redevelopment of the school’s playground, plans for which are under current development with architects, Warren & Mahoney and landscape architects Boffa Miscall, as part of the school’s new infrastructure plan.

https://www.facebook.com/ wellesleygala2018 with other newsletter updates, posters and email communications being distributed through the Wellesley and surrounding communities.

Could this be the solution?

I noted the continuing correspondence on slow drivers around the bays. They say a picture is worth 1000 words, so you might find the attachment useful.

The photo was taken in Scotland, where they have similar problems on narrow roads in the Highlands and Islands. However similar signs are already in use around Queenstown and central Otago, where timid or dawdling tourists have become a problem.

John Mendzela Lowry Bay

It's a route!

Re Kerry Scott's night in the bush behind Days Bay

Kerry referred to walking along the "McKenzie Track" to Days Bay. Perhaps this could be misleading to others.

According to the East Harbour Regional

Garden Stuff with Sandy Lang

March: Autumn now. An odd spring. An odd summer. Harvest time for many trees and vines. Some are doing really well, but others really badly.

Yields: I read recently 40% of NZ olive groves will have no harvest at all this year - a really bad year. Commercial apple crops also vary widely year by year, with yields in good years being about twice those in bad ones. The same with wine grapes where good-year yields of 14 ton/ha, drop to 7 ton/ha in bad years. These are national averages. Some groves/orchards/ vineyards fare much worse. With this variability, commercial growers find it hard to manage cash flows and markets. But why are fruit crops so variable…?

Phenology: It’s to do with plant phenology - the study of life-cycle stages and how these are affected by the weather.

Apples: An apple tree flowers for three weeks. Each flower lasts three days. For every 100 flowers, only 50 form tiny fruitlets (fruit set). The rest fall off. Then, over the next six weeks about 40 of these remaining fruitlets fall off too. This leaves about 10 fruitlets to grow to maturity. This is still too many to get good-sized, export-grade fruit, so growers remove about 9 to leave just 1. This way only about 1% of apple flowers make it through to ‘applehood’. This high redundancy increases apple tree resilience to bad weather that can mess up flowering, or pollination, or fruit-set, or fruit development.

Grapes: In grapes, the vine makes the ‘decision’ to flower about a year before the flowers even appear. So, for the 2018 grape crop, the vine’s decision about how much flower to produce was made in December 2016. Then, in December 2017, the flowers emerged, developed, were pollinated, were fertilised and the fruits set. Since then the fruit has been developing and in April 2018 it will be harvested. During this 16-month (Dec 16 to Apr 18) period there are some phenological stages when the weather doesn’t matter much but there are others when it really does matter.

Olives: The phenology of olives is much like grapes but the timings are different. The olive crop failure in May 2018 will likely be due to bad weather 15 months ago (they decided to produce few flowers) and then bad weather just before last Christmas (pollination and fruit set were reduced). And, so we get good years and bad years…

Sandy Lang slang@xtra.co.nz

the"Hawtrey Route between McKenzie and Kereru Tracks. The Hawtrey Route is unformed and marked with orange discs. Allow plenty of time to finish in daylight."

Robin Gilchrist

SPORT

New women's cricket team game for competition

by Steve McMorran

They call themselves the Game Birds and they're Eastbourne's answer to a question no-one had thought to ask. Why don't women and girls in Eastbourne play cricket?

Samantha Latham who manages the Eastbourne rugby under-6s, which has four female members, and whose husband Alex Webster captains the Eastbourne senior men's team was one who noticed the absence of female participation across the board in local cricket. There has never been a senior women's team in the Eastbourne club and there is currently a paucity of girls playing at junior level.

That stands in stark contrast to most sports

clubs in Eastbourne which have significant numbers of girls and women participating - in tennis, football, sailing and rugby.

So Samantha sent out an SOS to women wanting to play cricket in Eastbourne and was quickly answered by the six founding members of the Game Birds.

"We had our first training programme last Tuesday and six women came to that," Latham said. "We went to the pub and decided we were the founding members and came up with the name. There were a couple of other suggestions which were too rude. We've since recruited another four."

Alex Webster and Steve Nelson from the Eastbourne men's team are helping with the

coaching. Webster has coached men and boys but is coaching women for the first time. "I asked him what the difference is in coaching women," Latham said. "He said there's a lot more cuddling, a lot more apologising and a lot more toileting. When we bowl someone out we apologise, when someone does something good we give them a cuddle and people are always running off to the toilet. But he's enjoying it. I think he's found that he has to explain a lot more because everyone's new to the game and we're not up with the names and things."

Most of the Game Birds are playing cricket for the first time and discovering talents they didn't know they had. "Ruth hit a couple of sixes the other day," Latham said. "It turns out Gwen from Treasury is an amazing bowler and Emma, who has played a little bit before, is amazing at fielding."

Latham has been in touch with a counterpart at the Petone club to discuss how to take the Game Birds forward. She said their games start about 2pm. They have a wine before the game, a wine during the game and a wine when the game ends about 4.30."

Webster plans to conduct regular Twenty20 fun matches and the team will likely join a local women's social grade. But it also hoped that women will eventually be integrated into the Eastbourne men's team. The senior men's first XI has been struggling for players this season, and in recent seasons, and Latham believes women players could be the answer to make the team more sustainable. She also hopes to see more girls take up the game. Women and girls might be put off by cricket's use of arcane terminology, which they find alienating.

"I think women are put off by that," she said. "They think that cricket is really difficult and they won't get the hang of it. But really it's just rounders. There's a bat and a ball and that's about it. You don't need to get hung up on the rest."

The message of the Game Birds is that everyone is starting from scratch and learning together.

"We might be crap but never mind," she said. "We'll learn and we'll get better together."

Anyone wishing to join the Game Birds can contact Samantha at Samlatham131@gmail.com.

SPORT

Challenges aplenty for swimmer

by Steve McMorran

Many people who look south from Eastbourne at the cold and choppy waters of Cook Strait see a natural barrier, something to be regarded with mild apprehension.

But when nine-year-old Marina Nadilo looks eagerly towards the Strait from her Eastbourne home, she sees a challenge that in time it may be her destiny to confront.

Marina is used to confronting challenges and at a much earlier age than most, meeting head on tasks and personal tests that much older people might avoid.

Aged only eight, last year she was the youngest swimmer to have contested the annual Wharf to Wharf race, finishing 75th of 109 competitors, most of who were adults. She expects to be, at nine, the youngest swimmer to take part in the annual race from Matiu/ Somes Island to Petone Beach whe she faces that challenge this weekend.

Marina was the first swimmer home in the girls' 9 and 10 year old division in the Capital Classic Ocean Swim this month. She was much younger than almost all of her rivals in that age grade but prevailed in a winning time over the 200 meter course of 3 minutes, 53 seconds.

"She came second last year by about 3 seconds and she was devastated," Marina's father, coach and swimming partner Anton Nadilo said. "This year she really put everything into it, trained extra hard for the 9 and 10 age group and she won by quite a good margin."

Marina again took in her stride conditions which challenged much older swimmers.

"There were a lot of jellyfish about, as you may have heard, especially those big ones called Lions Manes and there were stingrays. But she took it all in her stride.

"Ocean swimming has its own challenges. It's not like swimming in the pool. There are no lanes. You have to keep your head up to see where you're going. There are lots of different conditions to cope with an its all about fitness and endurance."

Marina's win earned her a place in the Jetstar Swim Squad which trains over a three-day weekend in Auckland. She and Anton have won an all expenses-paid trip to Auckland to train with other squad members under some of New Zealand's best coaches.

Marina has already set her sights on new goals and challenges - in the long term her sights are set on swimming Cook Strait. She read of a young woman who recently completed the swim aged 13 and is already tentatively planning her own attempt at the famous crossing.

A serious Cook Strait attempt can be costly, running to around $10,000 for a pilot and support vessel - and can involves painstaking planning. Phillip Rush, the guru of Strait swims, provides that organisation and would be willing to help Marina when she feels the time is right.

At the moment she continues to regularly compete in the swim legs of local triathlons, often beating adult swimmers. She also competes in the pool and is hoping for success at the national championships in September. A freestyle specialist, she also has a long-term aim of representing New Zealand at the Olympics.

When possible she finds time also to compete in basketball, soccer, futsal and touch rugby while keeping up her heavy training schedule in swimming.

Faith in the Community

Ash Wednesday

Today as I write, it is Ash Wednesday, and I was recently asked “What’s Ash Wednesday?” If I said “It’s the day after Pancake Day” you’d probably be none the wiser. Well, it’s the first day of the Christian season of Lent, leading up to Easter. Way in the past, the church people fasted forty days, emulating the forty days Jesus spent in the wilderness wrestling with the challenges of the three-year ministry he was about to begin. It’s primarily a time of penitence when Christians review their lifestyles and values in the light of Jesus’ life and teaching. These days many Christians, as an act of discipline, will take a break from a favourite activity or food.

In some countries Pancake day is called Fat Tuesday, a day of feasting and celebration - the last day on which to indulge yourself in the food (or drink) you will be giving up for Lent. Perhaps a less self-centred way of observing Lent is to give thought to what extra you might do for those less fortunate. About those ashes, they’re from the little palm crosses made the previous Palm Sunday, (a week before Easter) blessed, burnt, and mixed with oil for use on Ash Wednesday to mark the foreheads of the faithful, as an act of penitence.

St Alban’s: • Boomerang Bags, every Weds, 7-9pm, St Ronan’s. • Guys’ Group, Mon 5 Mar, 6pm, Still Room. • Women’s Coffee Group, Mon 19 Mar, 10am, Hive.

• Maundy Thursday Service, 29 Mar, 7.30pm, Wellesley. • Good Friday Personal Pilgrimage, 30 Mar, 12 to 3pm (gather outside St Alban’s Church at noon). • Easter Vigil Service, Sat 31 Mar, 7.30pm, Wellesley.

• Easter Sunday Eucharist, Sun 1 Apr, 10am, Wellesley.

San Antonio: Children’s Mass, Sat 24 Mar, 5.30pm followed by community meal (bring a plate to share).

St Ronan’s: • Easter ‘Son Rise’ Service on the beach by RSA, Sun 1 Apr, 7am, tea/ coffee & hot-cross buns after. • Come and see the movie ‘As it is in heaven’ Wed 14 Mar, 7.30pm, St Ronan’s. • Come and see the short Billy Graham video ‘The Cross’, Wed 28 Mar 7.30pm, St Ronan’s.

• This column of church news and views is sponsored by St Alban’s Anglican, St Ronan’s Presbyterian and San Antonio Catholic Churches.

SPORT

Bowlers head towards record title

Scott Roddick says Eastbourne is ready for its history-making attempt to win the National Interclub bowls title three years in a row.

But he admits it rankles that it won't have the chance to do so on its home green.

Eastbourne will take on the best clubs from throughout New Zealand in the national final at the Naenae Bowling Club on Saturday and Sunday, March 3 and 4, after winning the Wellington interclub title and battling its way through regional qualifying.

The national finals have traditionally been held in Auckland. It was there Eastbourne first won the title in 2008 and where it claimed the national crown again in 2016 and 2017.

But this year, the championships have been awarded to Wellington. To Roddick, it seemed a matter of common sense that the chance to host the men's championships would be awarded to the club which won the Wellington title and has done so in eight of the last 10 years.

In any other centre, Roddick said, the team representing that centre would probably be given the hosting rights, whether to the men's premier, premier reserve or women's competitions. But Wellington has taken the unusual step of deciding that Naenae will play host to the men's final meaning that Eastbourne, while playing in its home centre, will still be competing at a neutral venue.

Putting aside those concerns, Roddick is as confident that he can be that Eastbourne is ready to defend its title.

"You can never be sure. We're playing against

Kidztalk

the best of the best," he said.

Bowls New Zealand had done away with regional finals in recent seasons, sending the winners of interclub competitions in each centre directly to the national finals. But it made the decision, to the surprise of clubs, to reinstate regional qualifying this season and Eastbourne had to earn its place in the national final by beating teams from Taranaki, Wanganui and Kapiti.

The Eastbourne women's team, bidding to join their male clubmates in the national final, reached the top four in the Wellington women's interclub final but were unable to claim that championship.

Footy trials on

Trials will take place this weekend for Eastbourne-Stop Out Alliance teams which will play in Capital Football Junior Premier Leagues during the coming season. The trials will take place at Hutt Park on Sunday.The Eastbourne-Stop Out Alliance is designed to strengthen both clubs by developing player strength and growing numbers, allowing players to perform at the highest level of Wellington junior football. Trials will take at 9am for the 12th grade, 10.15 for the 10th grade, 11.30 for the 11th grade and 12.45 to 1.45 for the 13th and 14th grades.

News from our local playcentres

EASTBOURNE HERALD

NEWS FROM POINT HOWARD PLAYCENTRE

Red coat no. 2

Eastbourne's Lucy Bird has a very special wardrobe, one of a few in New Zealand that contains two red coats.

And these aren't any run-of-the-mill red coats. They're the ones awarded only to winners of premier titles at the National Rowing Championships and are therefore as coveted as they are in short supply.

Bird won her second last weekend as cox of the Central regional crew which won the premier women's eights final at the 2018 national championships on Lake Karapiro.

The Central crew comprising Ruby Willis, Ruby Tew, Jackie Gowler, Beth Ross, Kerri Gowler, Ella Greenslade, Kirstyn Goodger, Zoe McBride and Bird - noted for containing more Rubies than the Crown Jewels - outclassed crews from Southern, Auckland and Waikato regions in the final.

After comfortably winning its heat, the Central crew went four seconds faster in the final, posting a time of 6 minutes, 17.89 seconds to win by almost nine seconds from Southern.

Two years ago and as a relative novice, Bird coxed a North Island eight which contained Olympic rowers Rebecca Scown and Kerry Gowler to victory in the same race. She had stepped in at last notice for the crew's Olympic cox and quickly quietened any doubts her crewmates had about her credentials.

Bird also coxed the Petone women's senior eight to third place in its final at Karapiro and the club's men's coxed four to seventh in its final.

FEBRUARY 2018 DEADLINES

With all the fine weather, we’re spending most of our time outside getting involved in messy play and making the most of our fantastic sandpit. With its large shade sail, it’s a great place to be on a sunny day and the children’s creativity is flourishing … they build everything from volcanoes to roads which quickly become rivers when the hose is turned on! And sometimes even the traffic cones are called into action ...

We’re looking forward to our first trip of the year – a visit to the Seaview Fire Station. The firefighters will be showing us around and we may even get to test some of their gear – they usually get the water splashing!

We’ve farewelled several of our five year olds recently as they headed off to school so it’s been lovely to also welcome some new families. If you and your under-five are interested in joining us in 2018, you can pop in and visit us at 1 Ngaumatau Road any time from 9.15 to 11.45 on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Friday.

You can also find out more about us by visiting our Facebook page or by calling Morag on 021 150 7997.

Cash for scrap - Copper, Brass, Aluminium, Stainless, Cars, Whiteware, Steel. Ingot Metals, 2 Port Road, Seaview. Ph 568 8300.

ORGANIC GARDENER: BSc (ecology) beautiful gardens…naturally ph 562 8726 or txt 027 6939 323.

Window Cleaning residential and commercial phone Graeme 5692247 or txt 027 2509847

GARDEN WORKER for all weeding, tidying and garden maintenance contact Hamish on 022 3748453.

Lawn Mowing and all Lawn Care phone Dan Reed 027 3371360.

Guthrie Cottage - beautiful self-contained beach-front accommodation. Perfect for excess visitors or enjoy all of the comforts of home while you renovate. www.guthriecottage. co.nz - email: gceastbourne@gmail.com

SONNY'S YOGA – EASTBOURNE CLASSES

- Enjoy a relaxing yoga class near the ocean. Every Wednesday 6.30pm Muritai Yacht Club starting 7 Feb 2018. Beginners welcome. For more info call Sonny on 021 800 512.

FELDENKRAIS METHOD® classes. Learn to move more easily, reduce tension and increase mobility. Wednesdays 7.30 – 8.30pm, 14th February to 4th April. Eastbourne Library committee room Contact Lois Ollivier 04 5899951 or 027 6011858.

EASTBOURNE

MEMORIAL RSA (Inc.)

Notice of AGM

To be held on Sunday 25 March 2018

Clubrooms, Tuatoru Street, Eastbourne.

Nominations for Executive Committee & Notices of Motion must be with the Secretary by Friday the 11 of March 2018.

Carers wanted for elderly lady with dementia, living at home with her husband in the Bays. Experience preferred but not essential. Hours negotiable. We are looking to employ a team of carers to provide 24/7 care. A live-in carer also considered. Enquiries welcome. Felicity 0272349364.

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Church Services In Eastbourne

St Alban’s Anglican: Sunday Worship 10am at Wellesley College. Thursday Worship 10am - check venue with Parish office, 11 Ngaio St, Eastbourne tel: 562 6269

Children and Families Ministry: see www.stalbanschurch.nz

St Ronan’s Presbyterian: Muritai Rd, Eastbourne

tel: Parish Clerk 562 8753

Sunday Morning Worship: 9.30am. Power Hour: 9.30am

San Antonio Roman Catholic: Oroua St, Eastbourne

tel: Fr Marlon Maylon Parish Priest 970 8405

Saturday Vigil Mass: 5.30pm

Sunday (Sacred Heart, Petone): 9.30am & 5.30pm

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ph: Mark O’Rourke 021 027 61926

email: markorourke2014@gmail.com

1890s into 2010s – A Perfect Blend

6 Maire Street is simply gorgeous - elegant, timeless, classic, sympathetic. With wonderful street appeal, set on a 862m2 flat section, this 220m2 single level character home comprises 3 living spaces, 4 generous bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The new family kitchen allows dining in and opens onto the new north-facing deck - as does the children’s lounge. The more formal front room is perfect for entertaining, while the width-of-house sun room has hosted 21sts, family Christmases, and doubles as playroom, lounge, rumpus. The master suite is a retreat, with ensuite and French doors to the garden. Relined, rewired, replumbed and insulated, this is a home with tons of history, ready for the future and a new family.

A much loved and sought after street, this home offers what so few in Eastbourne can - space for a growing family: family buye will love this property. PBN. Viewings available by appointment and Open Home.

Sinead

NewListing

ELEVATION, SPACE AND PRIVACY

Situated at the top of popular Nikau St, Eastbourne, on a large 5079m2 parcel of hillside land, number 38 enjoys magnificent views and privacy. Built in the 1970's, this property is spacious with 4-5 bedrooms and sizeable living area, with double garaging below, decks to the front and a good grassy area, ideal for families, to the rear.

17 Waitohu Rd, York Bay, Eastbourne

Tender Closes 2pm Wednesday 14/03/18 at Tommy's, 120 Queens Drive, Lower Hutt.

NewListing

By appointment

Sinead Diederich

04 568 2222 | 021 02581960

sinead@tommyshv.co.nz

UNIQUE SLICE OF PARADISE

This immaculately & lovingly maintained 1960’s family home set on a stunning example of managed suburban native bush, is certainly unique here in the Bays. The 3 bed, 2-bath home was designed by Mercer to optimize the elevated position, sun & the sea views. 2 garages & multiple off street parking, coupled with the 1654m2 of land make this property a must see.

Sinead Diederich

04 568 2222 | 021 02581960

sinead@tommyshv.co.nz

STUNNING VIEWS AND SUN

Situated on an elevated site with enviable panoramic views stretching over the marina, this unique property offers a lifestyle retreat of a quality and design rarely found in the Bays. Custom built in 2005, this substantial 269m2 family home includes: 2 living spaces, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms + w.c, internal access DBL GGE.; separate guest studio ensuite. R.V. 1.35m sinead@tommyshv.co.nz

Sinead

568 2222 | 021 02581960

This treasured mid century 4-bed family home, just moments -walk from popular Days Bay beach offers a brilliant lifestyle opportunity for a growing family. The central kitchen/lounge/diner/deck separates the kid's wing below from the 70m2 master suite upstairs. Sheltered and private, a home for all seasons.

tommys.co.nz

38 Nikau Street, Eastbourne Buyer Enquiry From $795,000

REF: THV01908

REF: THV01959

13 Church Lane, Point Howard, Eastbourne Buyer Enquiry From $1,400,000

REF: THV01964

4 Huia Road, Days Bay Buyer Enquiry From $875,000

REF: THV01921

DAYS BAY SECLUDED FAMILY HOME