Issue 2019 Wednesday 27th march 2024

MARY POPPINS BRINGS MAGIC TO ROLLESTON

Everyone's favourite and practically perfect nanny comes to Rolleston in April for a supercalifragilisticexpialidocious musical adventure. One of the most popular Disney movies of all time will capture Selwyn hearts this coming April as CentreStage Rolleston put on their latest musical spectacle.

Based on the books by P.L. Travers and the classic Walt Disney film, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh's Mary Poppins, features a raft of local performers such as Nickie Tabukovu as Mary, and Daniel Mathers as Bert.

The jack-of-all trades, Bert, introduces us to England in 1910 and the troubled Banks family. Young Jane and Michael (played by Saskia Van Gerwen, Isla Marshall, Logan Randall, and Harry McDermott) have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach the family members how to value each other again. Mary Poppins takes the children on many magical and memorable adventures, but Jane and Michael aren't the only ones on who she has a profound e?ect. Even grown-ups can learn a lesson or two from the nanny who advises that "Anythingcanhappenifyoulet it."

It's not just the talent on stage that we need to shout about. This fabulous local show is led by local Councillor Phil Dean (director), Benjamin Sinclair (musical director) and Kirsty Balfour (choreographer)

and a raft of behind-the scenes experts. There’s even a Director ofMagic … but we don’t want to give too much away.

Mary Poppins is an enchanting mixture of irresistible story, unforgettable songs, breathtaking dance numbers and astonishing stagecraft. Make sure you seeit atRollestonCollege18-27April2024.

Tickets are now on sale at centrestagerolleston.org.nz. Get in quick before they sell out!

Daniel Mathers playing Bert.

Nickie Tabukovu playing Mary.

Opening Hours:

• Mon-Wed, & Fri

10am - 5pm

• Late Night Thurs: 10am - 7pm

• Sat: 10am - 2pm

18 Freight Drive, Iport, Rolleston Ph: 03 347 4595 | Mob: 0274 843040 info@rollestoncostumes.co.nz www.rollestoncostumes.co.nz

TRANSFORM YOUR SKIN HEALTH

Are you struggling with Are you Eczema? Acne? Rosacea? Rosacea? Pigmentation? Premature Pigmentation? Pigmentation?Premature Premature Premature Ageing? Scarring? OR Ageing? OR simply simply looking to rejuvenate looking to rejuvenate to to the overall health of your the overall health of your the health of the health of skin? Stolyn Beauty Clinic in skin? Stolyn Beauty Clinic in Stolyn Beauty Stolyn Beauty

Lincoln is the place for you. Lincoln is the for you. Specialising in Paramedical Skin Revision & Gut Health, we take a holistic approach to skin and well-being ensuring life-changing results that last. We are very dedicated to helping and supporting you achieve your skin goals and bringing your confidence back.

At Stolyn Beauty, we are a proud DMK Skin Clinic offering the renowned DMK Enzyme Therapy. This revolutionary treatment works

with the skin's natural processes to promote healthy functioning skin, improving circulation, lymphatic flow, texture, and glow. DMK is a paramedical brand utilising only the purest botanical ingredients to work directly with the cells in your skin, so nothing nasty. We aren't limited to the skin on your face but all areas of your body from head to toe. There is nothing we can't help with, so get in touch today and utilize our FREE consultations. Life is too short to be unhappy in your skin. Start your journey to healthy glowing skin at Stolyn Beauty. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @stolynbeauty to

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LOOKING FOR A SELWYN STAR?

The Selwyn District Council is searching for the next Selwyn Star that will get their audience singing and dancing in their seats at the finals at the Rolleston Community Centre in May.

The fun, talent event caters ages five to 13 years and 14 to 18 years. It costs just $5 to register and friends and family can come and watch for free.

Heats will be held throughout the district at varying dates and locations so if you think you have what it takes – you can sing, dance, or play an instrument then hop online and register today.

Heats take place in Broadfield, Lincoln, Darfield, Rolleston, and Southbridge from April to May.

Hop online to register and Hop online to register check out the dates at check out the dates at out the at out the at selwyn.govt.nz/news selwyn.govt.nz/news selwyn.govt.nz/news--And AndAnd And-events/events/selwyn events/events/selwyn events/events/selwyn--stars. stars.stars. stars.

HELPING VETERANS

ANZAC Day is nearly upon us, which means so is our annual Poppy Day Appeal, usually held on the Friday before ANZAC Day. This has become the RNZRSA’s primary means of raising funds for the welfare of veterans and their dependants.

This year the annual Poppy Day Appeal will be held on Friday 19 and Saturday 20 April and the Rolleston RSA is again assisting the Templeton RSA with collections across five sites in Rolleston. All collected funds will be lodged with the RSA’s Poppy Trust to support current and ex-service personnel and their families in need.

New Zealand’s first poppy day was held on April 24, 1922. The idea of selling artificial poppies to raise funds for veterans’ organisations was conceived by a French woman, Madame E. Guerin. Colonel Alfred S. Moffatt took the idea to the New Zealand Returned Soldiers’ Association in September 1921. Unlike the practice in other countries, the

NZRSA did not hold its inaugural Poppy Appeal in association with Armistice Day (November 11). The shipment arrived too late for Poppy Day to be properly promoted prior to Armistice Day, so the RNZRSA decided to hold it on the day before ANZAC Day in 1922.

The first Poppy Day was a ‘brilliant success’, with funds raised sent to help war-

ravaged areas of northern France and the remainder went to unemployed New Zealand returned soldiers and their families. (Source: nzhistory.govt.nz)

If you and your family or you your or community group can help community can help on Friday19 or Saturday 20, on Friday19 or Saturday 20, Saturday Saturday April at one of our sites in April at one of our sites in at one of in at one of in Rolleston, please contact Rolleston, please Rachael at Rachael Rachaelat at at

Stolyn BeautyClinic owner and operator Amanda Stol is a qualified Paramedical Skin Therapist and Beautician.

By George Elder By George Elder George George

Could traditional Easter fare be healthier?

When we are confronted with the arrival of Easter, perhaps the easiest way to celebrate with the family, and what is often expected, is to go out and buy a clutch of chocolate Easter eggs and chocolate Easter bunnies. It is perhaps concerning that we have been gradually seduced by the confectionery industries to see the celebration in this way. It has not always been so dominated by these types of treats.

A traditional Easter meal is ham or roast lamb with all the trimmings. Perhaps symbolizing thatJesusissaidtobethelamb of God or maybe it is a reminder of an ancient sacrifice.

You could still celebrate this way and by filling everyone up with good quality food, there may be less room available for excess sugar. Find a good slow -cook recipe, add some carrots for the bunny, sweet potato, a rich gravy, yum. Easter eggs were not always made of chocolate. By all means enjoy some chocolate eggs in moderation, but perhaps you could supplement and have some great family time by boiling some real eggs and then spending time with your children decorating them. Buy some suitable colouring pens and draw faces and then dress them up in colourful little clothes. Taketurnshiding them around the house and seeing who can find Humpty Dumpty, etc. Spending this time with your children is likely to be

more valuable than eating too much chocolate and marshmallow. Eggs are a traditional symbol of fertility and when painted red can apparently symbolize theblood ofChrist.

You might recall a rhyme that goes “one a penny, two a penny, hot cross buns”. This was from 1733, suggesting that Easterhotcrossbunshave been around for a very long time. Warm or toast them and spread with real butter, not margarine as we now understand that vegetable oils and margarine are poor choices for your health, because they increase whole bodyinflammation.

For more dietaryand health more dietaryand health advice, email me at me at takebackyrhealth@gmail.com takebackyrhealth@gmail.com or read my blogs at or read blogs www.takebackyrhealth.com

SELF REFERRAL IS AN OPTION

Did you know that your GP and only your GP can refer you up the chain to mental health services? You didn’t. That’s because it’s not true. Self-referral is an option. You just need to ask or know that you can ask.

One in five of us live with psychiatric interventions and medication. A large component of care is self-care. Many with addictions, anxiety, attention deficit and so on take personal responsibility and maintain their wellbeing, along with help from whanua and their community. A house, a job, a friend, some physical activity– all will calm the sea.

But life’s rough, right? Ups and downs, rips and undercurrents abound. That’s why Citizens Advice Bureau

(www.cab.org.nz) is here to provide a supportive ear. We don’t have all the answers but we know people who know people who might be able to help you or your loved one. Places who allow walk-ins. Places like Pukeko Blue, Emerge Aotearoa Housing Trust, Job Connect, Depression Support Network, Comcare Charitable Trust, Emerge Aotearoa, Purapura Whetu, Christchurch AOD, and many more. Places that understand that a person gets sad if their physical health issues aren’t being addressed.

Get in touch on 0800 367 222 (0800 FOR CAB) to talk to a real person. It’s free, confidential and nonjudgmental.

Or pop into:

• Fendalton Library, 4 Jeffreys Road (03 351 7804)

• Hornby Community Care Centre, Goulding Ave (03 349 5236)

• New Brighton branch, on Union St between the mall and Beresford St (366 6490) – this branch recently relocated to here from Sydenham

• The Loft, upstairs in the library, Eastgate Mall (Tuesdays 11am to 2pm)

• Te Ara Atea, Rolleston (Tuesdays 11am to 1pm)

• UC College of Business and Law (Thursdays 5.15pm to 7.15pm)

Hemoanapukepukeeekengia etewaka. etewaka. etewaka. etewaka. Achoppyseacanbe navigated. navigated.

NEW OPPORTUNITY FOR WEST MELTON RESIDENTS

Would you like to be more involved in your community, have skills to help the community grow and want to be a part of a new venture to assist with the needs of the community?

Rolleston Lions is looking at setting up a new branch of the Lions Club in West Melton. Rolleston would be the guiding club initially

and would provide the necessary information as to meeting venue, membership requirements, funding, initial setting up, appointment of officers, etc. In fact, they would be sponsors and mentors while the Club becomes part of the worldwide Lions movement, whose motto is ‘We Serve’. It's not all hard work however as the

clubs enjoy many social activities and fun activities as well.

The Lions Club looks forward to meeting you and welcomes adults of all ages, genders, and nationalities, and are nonpolitical and non-religious.

If you are interested, contact If are interested, Mike Cousins on Mike Cousins on Cousins on Cousins on 021 778 462 or email: 021 778 462 or email: 462 or email: 462 or email: cousinwm@gmail.com. cousinwm@gmail.com.

WELL-DESERVED AWARD

By Heather Power, By Heather Power, By Heather Power, By Heather Power, PublicityOfficer PublicityOfficer

Rolleston and Districts Lions scored two major awards at our recent district Convention held in Blenheim. The club received the District Award for the most Positive Growth in Membership during 2023-24,

and our president Shirley McNicholl received an International President’s Award, “In recognition of Distinguished Achievements in fulfilling the mission of Lions International, and to affirm the Appreciation and Gratitude of the Association”.

This is a very well-deserved award as Shirley is easily one of our hardest working Lions. There is a motto which says, “Where there is a need, there is a Lion”. I would add that it is usuallyShirley!

“DESIGNS AND DESSERTS” FASHION EVENT

What lady doesn’t love a stylish fashion show - here is your opportunity to be a part

“YOUR LOCAL VETS IN ROLLESTON”

Hours: Monday to Friday 8am - 6pm, Saturday 9am - 1pm

of one, right on your doorstep!

Selwyn Lions ‘Designs and Desserts’ evening, on Friday April 19 at the Lincoln Event Centre, promises to be lots of fun. With winter almost upon us it may even be a timely opportunity to consider reorganising your wardrobe. Groups such as friends, work colleagues or families are also welcome to make up a table for a great night out so you can finish your week on a high.

On your arrival you can purchase a glass of wine from Straight 8 Estate Winery. Enjoy browsing the various stalls showcasing and selling crafts, chocolates, footwear, artisan

gifts, lingerie and makeup. To set the scene and get the show underway, guests will be treated to tempting platters of tasty nibbles prepared by the Selwyn Lions Club volunteers.

Commencing at 7pm, models from local fashion boutique Duet will be displaying the latest in designer clothing on the stage. Other presentations include fitness, lingerie and style advice from our lovely presenters.

During the break delicious desserts will be on offer - a chance to top up your glass, do some more shopping and catch up with friends.

Then sit back and enjoy more gorgeous clothes to tempt you and expert tips on how colour enhances your style.

Finally the great array of raffle prizes will be drawn. Our team is very fortunate to have received generous raffle donations from local businesses.

If you have enquiries, give Jane a call on 021 631 9540 or email on janeforrest25@hotmail.com

Tickets ($30 each) are already selling fast so contact Barbara on 021 257 9201 or email d.bwilliams@xtra.co.nz to reserve your seats. Alternatively pop in to Duet at 9 Gerald Street, Lincoln.

WHAT’S COOKING? THE FOOD SHOW RETURNS

With an exceptional line up including new masterclasses, new chefs and hot exhibitors, there’s all the ingredients for a great day out when The Food Show returns to Wolfbrook Arena from April 57, 2024.

The ultimate event for foodies, this is the show to titillate tastebuds and satisfy the passion for all things delicious. A celebration of gastronomic proportions awaits, with hundreds of exhibitors offering the latest in niche new artisan food and drink; exclusive, show-only specials and the opportunity to sample and stock up on thebest products available.

The new Hancocks Spirits Masterclasses will include a Margarita Masterclasswhich will see you adding a touch of Mexican flair to your cocktails. While theGin & Cake High Tea will redefine

how you spend your Afternoon Masterclasses can be purchased online with your entryticket.

Once you’ve navigated around the various delectable zones at the Show, head to the free, live cooking demonstrations at the NEFF Cooking Theatre where some of Australasia's top culinary talent will be sharing their secret recipes and hot cooking tips.

This year there is an exciting line up including Silvia Colloca – an Italian-Australian actress, opera singer, cookbook author, and television cookery show personality who has published six cookbooks. Tina Duncan – a New Zealand cook, caterer, and cooking school tutor. Simon Levy –who began his culinary journey at the age of 13, working his way up to Head Chef of prestigious restaurants across the UK until relocating

to Christchurch, now running Inati. And, of course, Annabelle White who has mastered the art of having fun in the kitchen by taking the simple yet most effective way of creating memorable dishes in the kitchen!

And let’s not forget the new products on the market, many of which will be exhibited at the show. Whether you’re a foodie aficionado, wine enthusiast or someone who loves discovering new things to eat, there’s something to satisfy every taste bud at The Christchurch Food Show, where you’ll leave feeling just as satisfied as your stomach!

Secure your tickets online and Secure your online check out the line up in the check out the up NEFF Cooking Theatre to make NEFF Cooking Theatre to make NEFF Theatre NEFF Theatre sure your trip is planned for sure your trip is planned for sure your trip is planned sure your trip is planned maximum enjoyment at maximum at foodshow.co.nz. foodshow.co.nz.

ROLLESTON MEN'S SHED

By SandyFerguson By BySandyFerguson SandyFerguson By

After building a run of playhouses, the latest build is a portable shed, for a member's son, to be used for drying wetsuits and motorcycle gear. As it will be relocated at times it is on large casters. The framing is finished, and cladding has started.

The Shed's BBQ has been refurbished, sanded down and repainted. A table with a missing centre piece to its top has had one made from an old bed headboard. As well as the table, there have also been several chairs and stools being fixed.

The CNC router has caused some problems by not matching up with its previous cuts and needed a lot of checking of different software controls to get consistent reproducible cutting. A reindeer was waved at members at a recent morning tea to show a successful result.

A good yarn and the morning cuppa are still an important part of the Shed. Visit our website for more info at rollestonshed.wordpress.com.

The Shed is open Saturday, Monday, and Wednesday from 9.00a.m. until mid-day.

The Shed's 2024 AGM will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at 10.30am

Thinking

outside the square, this oak table was repaired with a new panel made from a bed headboard.

Phone: 03 3477 205

Mobile: 0275 391 006

Email: ginny.gmi@gmail.com

Web: www.gmi.net.nz

By GinnyNelson. ByGinnyNelson. GinnyNelson.

Fix or float, fix or float, fix or float? If you’re buying property, these are the words that will be going round and round in your head. Making an informed decision about whether to fix or float is one of the biggest questions you’ll face when buying a home. The right answer for you isn’t necessarily the one you’ll hear around the water cooler at work. Friends and family can’t always put themselves in your shoes. Nor is the correct answer always taking the lowest rate

on offer, although it’s a win/ win when it works. The right decision is an informed decision.

Great reasons to fix include: Great reasons fix include:

• Stability. A fixed rate means you know exactly what you’ll pay month in month out for the length of the fixed rate period.

• Peace of mind. It’s hard to sleep easy if you live in fear of the home loan going up. Fixing your home loan rate levels out the fluctuations and you don’t need to worry about rate rises when others around you are stressing out

• No sudden shocks. No-one expects home loan rates to go back to 8 or 9 per cent again in a hurry. But should there be an unexpected financial shock such as the Global Financial Crisis, your home loan rate will be protected until the end of the

fixed rate period.

The downsides of fixing are: The downsides of fixing are: The of fixing are: The of fixing are:

• It’s a gamble. You may end up paying more overall than you would have if you’d stuck to a floating interest rate. But that can happen either way whether you fix or float. Not even economists can predict with complete certainty how interest rates will change.

• You’re stuck with the same lender. If another lender suddenly launches the home loan rate of a lifetime, you may not be able to switch to it until your fixed interest period ends.

• Breaking can be expensive. If you need to break your fixed rate you may be charged break fees by the lender.

DISCOVERING WASTE AND SUSTAINABILITY

A group from Selwyn Timebank recently visited the ReDiscover Waste and Sustainability Centre outside of Rolleston. An introduction to how different materials break down in a natural environment led down a different pathway for the intended workshop! There was great interest in how our waste is managed. What can and can’t be recycled? What needs to be thrown away? What is considered green waste? There were many questions and quite a few surprises for those who attended. The means of separating into three groups (landfill, recyclable and green waste) was discussed. Some items were assumed to be recyclable, but the answer was a sure ‘no’ on a closer look at what it was made from. Other things could be recycled because what it

At the end of the day, you need to decide what you can afford, how much certainty you need, and once you decide, don’t look back! was made from would ultimately be separated. A video was watched on this whole process - and what a lengthy process it is! The results of the formation of landfills and what happens to recycled materials were also presented.

A guided tour was embarked upon of the Pines Resource Recovery Park, where areas are highly organised into recyclable material and other waste. In the soon-to-be future, a second-hand store will be open to the public along with other possible exciting plans, in the hope it will become a central hub for helping to recover the environment. There is already a community garden underway which has become a valuable educational resource.

There is so much to learn about what we can do better in our own homes. Each participant admitted that they learnt something new and will endeavour to put into practice what they took on board. A visit to this place is a definite must - there will be another Selwyn Timebank group going soon!

To find out more get in To find out touch with Fiona, email touch with Fiona, selwyntimebank@gmail.com. selwyntimebank@gmail.com. selwyntimebank@gmail.com. selwyntimebank@gmail.com.

Update for Rolleston Residents on Rolleston College From Principal Rachel Skelton

It is great to have the opportunity to update the community on the status of the second campus and the reasons why we are fighting for the fully functional campus that our children deserve.

The school’s journey in school property has unfortunately not been a smooth one. To provide some context: the current school on Springston Rolleston Road is built under public-private partnership (PPP) which means that there is an agreement between the Ministry of Education and a consortium of private companies to build and maintain the school. It means that the buildings have very high specs (which is a positive of this model) but that the school’s and community use of the buildings is restricted and there are additional financial costs for use.

The main building of the current school is built for eleven hundred students. In 2018 the school submitted an education brief for the extension of the school. There have now been six years between the submission of that design brief and the expansion being near completion. The expansion to the current school is due to be completed in July 2024. Between 2020 and 2024, the grounds of our relatively small physical site has become full of prefabricated classrooms. Instead of a decision to begin our expansion earlier, permanent buildings were delayed in favour of modular quick fixes despite our growing roll. We have had no access to the school gymnasium since August 2023. Whilst we are not ungrateful for the improvements on the site it is very clear that the infrastructure has not kept up with growth. The permanent buildings on the current campus once the extension opens are designed to hold 1800 students which is where we are now; with modular buildings that increase but the modular building is temporary.

In terms of the senior campus, it would not be a PPP school allowing more open access to the school by students, whānau, and community. We started engaging in the process of planning towards this campus in 2021 after the public engagement first by an independent consultant and then with the school around what secondary provision would look like in Rolleston. We wrote and submitted a design brief in February 2022 and have since been working towards refining structures to work across the two campuses.

The Ministry of Education gave us no reason to feel concerned about the progress of the second campus project and reported in the media about the campus being built to “… accommodate population growth in one of the country’s fastest-growing areas …” and “… the new campus will provide excellent facilities for the growing community …”

You can imagine our dismay on February 29 when, with no prior warning or consultation, we were presented with an option we believe is far less than what is needed. It is a long way o? what we had worked on over the years preceding.

We based our plan on educationally sound practices, government directives, the feedback collected at community consultations, and what we know of our learners and community paired with the opportunities within our local area to partner further with business and the tertiary sector and overnight class provisions to people in the community not wishing to travel into town.

We produced a plan that we believe provides learning environments that cater for all areas of the New Zealand Curriculum to NCEA level 3, and the other essential services needed to run a functional school.

The plan presented by the Ministry of Education features only two permanent buildings – a science and technology building and a remodelled gym. This build was always going to be staged but the Ministry had given assurances around quick progression with no significant delay between stages and that the whole campus, with all of its functional parts, would be completed in three years. The science and technology building is largely as designed but still to be further valueengineered.

The total redesign to a single gymnasium means what was removed from our plan was a double court gym with the wider building also housing counsellors’ o?ices, pastoral care, additional changing rooms, a cardio room (which would have initially doubled as a dance studio/drama room for the first stage of construction, before the construction of the theatre), sports o?ice, student reception and sta?room.

In the Ministry's plan, a single playing field would be the grounds provided for sports and the Physical Education curriculum. We are a very sporty and active community, and we are not sure what sports this meagre o?ering would allow us to play or where one of our growing sports, cricket, fits in.

Probably most concerning of all is that for the rest of the school, and all of the other stages, there were no assurances to progress with any further planning or design. Any further stages would be based on numbers, not curriculum provision. This approach is not educationally sound.

We continue to meet with the Ministry of Education to ensure progress is not any further delayed but our position on a fully functional school remains unchanged. Our most recent meeting with the Ministry of Education was on Monday, March 18 and there were some small shifts.

A commitment was made to continue to build more permanent facilities but without a transparent plan of how that would work with clear dates and numbers, which is not acceptable as it is not a firm commitment. We know in Selwyn that an approach of waiting to reach a number does not work with our growth.

As soon as a facility is built growth makes it too small. We are clear that we need to be building for the next 10 years, not the next two. At the meeting on March 18, there had also been some movement from the Ministry of Education on temporary buildings having some more fit for purpose adjustments, for example, acoustics to allow for music and additional walls for practice rooms, etc.

We are very clear that what we want for our children is no di?erent to any other large secondary school. We need a functional school rather than two permanent buildings and some temporary buildings. Our growth has been constant and in eight short years we have grown from 225 to 1800 learners. We know the growth will continue – we see it in our primary schools. We have collated data from all primary schools in our feeder area and the growth using this data suggests a 25.5% increase in Rolleston College’s roll by 2027.

This increase is based on their current school rolls – not accounting for the new primary school due to be built or any further subdivisions to come online – the experience of those within our area is that we tend to get an unknown number of approximately 60 enrolments during the year from outside of the local area.

There is much talk in the media about “bespoke design and nice to haves” libraries, supported learning spaces, canteens, art rooms, music rooms, drama rooms, a theatre or auditorium, bilingual and cultural spaces, front o?ices, and counselling rooms – these are school services, not nice “want to haves”.

We asked the Ministry of Education to provide examples of new schools being built without these facilities. To date, we have had no response. We believe that is because they have never built a new school without all of those functions included and planned from the outset.

It was heartening to have almost 200 people attend in person at our public meeting last week and over 100 on the livestream. We will provide a video record of the meeting on our school website.

We have a page on the website dedicated to this issue to provide community updates. https://www.rollestoncollege.nz/senior-campus

Last week we sent submissions collected from the community to the Ministry of Education, Minister of Education and Prime Minister. We have an online petition with close to 3000 signatures. Our key goal over the next three years with the Ministry of Education is to get them to commit to the planned continuous construction of permanent buildings and complete the campus.

Principals come and go. Poli=cians come and go. But a school is a long-las=ng asset for a community and should be built with future genera=ons in mind.

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ROLLESTON COMBINED PROBUS

By Juliette Easterbrook By Juliette Easterbrook By Easterbrook By Easterbrook

We had a good start to the year - in February we had a speaker from the City Mission and were amazed to hear about all the good works that the mission do. They have a Café on site which we will visit at a later date. All proceeds from this Café go to help the mission.

In March we had our Annual

Meeting, followed by a talk by Hannah Airey from Laughing Yoga who also showed us some basic Laughing Yoga. It was great to see the happy smiling faces after this session.

On March 15, a group visited the Tai Tapu Sculpture Gardens with lunch at the RaspberryCare afterwards.

In April we have booked a tour of Te Pae (the Christchurch

Convention Centre) and a movie day at the Silky Otter in Wigram.

The Probus meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month in the Rolleston Community Centre from 9.45am until 12 noon. We welcome new members. Please contact Ann Barber our president on 027 588 5033 if you are interested in attending a meeting.

NICOLA GRIGG UPDATE

By Nicola Grigg Nicola Grigg

 Design – Installation – Servicing

 Toro Irrigation Systems

 Lawns - Gardens

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Phil & Kristie Hudson

Free Phone: 0800 22 33 92

Website: www.freemanirrigation.co.nz

Email: info@freemanirrigation.co.nz

The latest nationwide review into school property has, understandably, caused great concern here in Selwyn. As one of the fastest growing regions in New Zealand, it is imperative that our schools are funded and future-proofed to meet the needs of our families and young people.

As the MP for Selwyn, I am very aware of the growth pressures on many schools across the district and have, on many occasions, lobbied the previous government –and now, my own colleagues –

in support of our local schools.

I fully understand, and share, the frustration and anxiety the community is feeling since the announcement regarding the paring back of the Rolleston College development in particular.

I was unable to attend the recent public meeting at the College as I am on maternity leave. However, I have been in phone contact with principal Rachel Skelton and have been conveying her concerns and feedback directly to both the Minister of Education, Erica Stanford, and senior ministry officials responsible for this project. So, while I’m not around physically, I’m doing what I can to ensure direct lines of communication and that the needs of our district are heard at the highest levels of government. We need to be very clear though, the Government has not ordered the pause or cessation of any school building projects – in fact, funding fit for purpose school infrastructure is our priority. However, the Ministry has, itself, paused 20 building projects across the country

and is reviewing a further 350 projects in various stages, from design through to pre-construction, where expectations far exceeded what could be delivered. The Ministry is running that review over the next two months to ensure projects are rightsized, fit for purpose, and can deliver the school property our children deserve, while protecting taxpayers from further cost blowouts.

I completely understand the frustration of principals and Boards here who have put in so much time, effort, and expertise into developing school building projects, only to have the Ministry say they need to be paired back.

Ellesmere College and Lincoln High School developments have also been impacted and, as in Rolleston, this is causing those schools huge distress. While this review is ongoing, I will continue to ensure the needs of our community are made very, very clear and that the best outcome possible is achieved for our students. Please don’t hesitate to contact my office should you have any queries or concerns.”

2024 Rolleston Combined Probus Committee.

L-R: Juliette Easterbrook, Brenda Webber, Liz Hamilton, Rich Smith, David Bellamy, Sarah Byers, DorothyTilson, Val Roxburgh, Ann Barber (President) and Sandra Martin.

ROLLESTON CENTRAL PROBUS

By Jill Webb By Webb

March is upon us, which means Autumn with changeable cooler weather at times, and us older folk getting out and about with a group of likeminded people. The group enjoy speakers such the last one, Geoff Mark, who gave us the inside look at setting up water systems in remoteplaces in Somalia, Nepal Sierra Leone, and also broughtalong some items of clothing, cooking utensils and handcrafts he had collected.

Our next speaker is Bernadette Devonport, who will give a talk on the ‘History of Rolleston’. This should be of interest to newcomers, as it has grown so much since I was a child here.

The outing to Glenlothian Farm was well-supported. It was of a great interest to see the different animals and we advise all you doting grandparents to take the grandchildren along. Next, we areoff toGlentunnel Museum with lunch at Darfield. The Out and About group had

a change of plan and went to the Tai Tapu Sculpture Garden; it was enjoyed by a small group. The next one is the Rakaia Walk in April. Lunches afterthese outingsare always a great time to catch up and chat to others and find out their history and interests. Also don't forget the coffee mornings for the Fun, Fellowship and Friendship. Come along and checkus out Come along and checkus out Come along checkus out Come along checkus out on the third Tues of the on the third Tues of the the third of the the third of the month. For more information, month. For more information, For information, For information, call Herb on 03 327 1466 or call Herb on 03 327 1466 or Herb on 1466 or Herb on 1466 or Denise on 027 557 0515. Denise on 027 557 0515. Denise 027 557 0515. Denise 027 557 0515.

ROLLESTON GARDEN CLUB NEWS

We are in March, which means Autumn is here in more ways than one with cooler mornings and nights, dew on the ground, darker earlier, but no rain, the ground is still dry so keep the water on those plants.

What’s happening in the garden this time of year, some of us are making use of the last of summer fruits, veg etc to pickle, freeze, and bottle, so we can savour summer in the winter. A general tidy-up is still required, some dividing of annuals that have finished flowering can be done, replanted, or given some colour to the neighbours and friends.

Planting of garlic is done at this time, a well-manured garden is required, and a

pleasure to grow when you see from putting a small clove in the ground what you can get from it. Brassicas can be planted for late Autumn and earlywinter harvest.

The flower garden is not forgotten – plant hardy ones like chrysanthemums, cornflowers, and calendula, and even think of putting a few seeds in for spring flowering undercover, also don't forget to plant some spring bulbs. Our last outing to Kaiapoi Food Forest was interesting discovering what can grow where and in what quantity to feed others. It’s a shame that some people need to take more than their fair share. Lunch at Paris for the Weekend was lovely. Next, we

are off to a Wasabi Farm, not everyone’s favourite condiment, but be interesting. The month of May brings a speaker from Kakaraki Kitchen. Come along and join our great group for gardening tips and friendship.

For more information, For more information, more information, more information, contact Julie on 347 1311 on 347 1311 or Anne on 347 8417. or Anne on 347 8417. on 347 on 347

by Helen Wilson Helen Wilson

The bi-annual Rolleston Residents Garden Competition is on again this year. It was last held in 2022 and now with Rolleston growing and new houses being built, there should be a lot more gardens entered.

The competition is an incentive for home owners to take pride in being a resident in Rolleston and to have the chance of winning some great prizes.

The judging will be a little later this year on October 29 and 30. The committee is just finalising the categories and hopes that there will be a variety of gardens entered. The gardens will be judged on

basic design principals such as balance, colour, unity and harmony. Also what type of plants have been chosen to enhance the garden such as trees, climbers and perennials. It doesn’t have to be a big garden, small gardens can be just as stunning. There will be categories for vegetable gardens, commercial gardens and school gardens. There is no entry fee, and each winner receives vouchers and a small trophy, with their name and which category they entered on it, to keep. Entry forms will be available at a later date.

ANGLICAN CHURCH OF THE RESURRECTION

Holy Week

 Maundy Thursday: March 28, 7.30 pm, St Stephen’s, Lincoln – A service of foot washing and Holy Communion.

 Good Friday: March 29, 10 am, Lincoln – An ecumenical procession with the cross, beginning at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Lincoln and ending at the Lincoln Baptist Church.

 Good Friday: March 29, 7.30 pm, St Stephen’s, Lincoln – A joint service (with the Catholic congregation) of evening prayer and adoration of the cross.

 Holy Saturday: March 30 at 10 am, Church of the Resurrection Rolleston – Hot Cross Buns for morning tea followed by a screening of the Easter movie “Risen”.

 Easter Sunday: March 31, Day of the Resurrection of Jesus, 9.30 am, Church of the Resurrection, Rolleston – A church service of Holy Communion.

40 Brookside Road, Rolleston

KIM HILL RETURNS TO LINCOLN

Lincoln Envirotown in conjunction with Lincoln University are happy to announce that the annual popular “Hot Topic” discussion will take place on March 28 at Lincoln University.

Full details and an invitation to register can be found by visiting Humanitix – Kim Hill Hot Topic 2024, or by visiting Lincoln Envirotown’s website or Facebook Page.

As per tradition, the well-known Radio personality Kim Hill will lead a panel of experts who will discuss this year’s topic “PLASTIC – how do we live with it”. Once the panel have deliberated their varying views, the audience will be invited to question panel members.

Issues relating to the problems associated with our overuse of plastic have been prevalent for many years and its disastrous impacts on ocean life are well catalogued. The panellists will discuss all issues relating to how essential plastic might be, our ability to reduce consumption, and our means of recycling the plastic we use.

The evening is always a well-attended stimulating and enjoyable occasion; all are welcome.

EASTER MESSAGE

Celebrating the resurrection of Celebrating the resurrection of Jesus JesusJesus Jesus

As New Zealanders, we will celebrate Easter in different ways. It is an opportunity to go away as a family, and children always enjoy having Easter eggs. The Easter egg symbolises New Life and for Christians, we celebrate that Jesus has Risen from the dead.

All of us experience the loss of

a loved one at some point in our life. We grieve their loss and shed tears because we loved them. We look back on their life and are grateful for the person they were and how they impacted our lives. As Christians, we also look forward with hope, for we believe in Eternal Life. Through Jesus’ suffering and death, all the wrong doings, the sins we are guilty of, have been washed away. In Jesus

having Risen from the dead, we are called to share in his Eternal Life now and after the end of our earthlylife.

May this Easter be a wonderful time for everyone, but may it especially be filled with Hope and Joysince “Jesus is Risen”

WishingyouaBlessedEaster.

Fr Chris Orr, Our Lady of the Chris Orr, Our Lady of the Plains Catholic Parish, Selwyn Parish, Selwyn

RELAY FOR LIFE

By Rev’d Gabriele Anderson By Rev’d Gabriele Anderson By Rev’d Anderson By Rev’d Anderson

Who is the fastest runner in the whole world? Adam! He was first in the human race!

On Saturday March 16, the Church of the Resurrection Rolleston helped to raise funds for the yearly “Relay of Life” event. Relay for Life celebrates with survivors of cancer, remembers loved ones lost to cancer, and those who fight back against cancer.

It was a privilege to be among our community in Rolleston and to support the event. After all, we are the Church of the Resurrection, Rolleston: A Church in the community, for the community.

Several hundred people turned up including eight faithful friends with their red, Church of the Resurrection t-shirts who walked and ran for 12 hours around the track, continuously.

Thank you, Lord, for sending the people to walk, to give, to pray, for their 12-hour energy and to do so with walking

frames, walking sticks, prayer books and baton. A big thank you to Bruce, Alister, Elaine, Marion, Anthony, Fiona, Abi, Rev Pam, Carol, Pam B, Polly and all the other faithful. It was super weather with a slight “ruach” (wind) every now and then. Thank you, Lord for the loads of good conversations. The ceremony ended with a candlelight ceremony where people could remember those they had lost, with bagpipes playing in the background.

So, Lord, help all who are touched by this disease to not grow weary. Help us to not lose heart. Empower us to overcome. Fill us with Your Spirit so that we may run this race with perseverance and joy and hope. Strengthen us with the promise that You go before us and with us in this good fight.

May this day draw us to your great love. May this day bring you honour. May this day bring victory over cancer. Amen.

Agroup of Church of the Resurrection Rolleston members took part in the Relayfor Life helping to raise awareness and funds for cancer survivors and their families. Pictured from left is Marion, Elaine’s visiting cousin, and AnthonySmuts.

NEXT STEPS FOR UPPER SELWYN HUTS CONFIRMED

Upper Selwyn Huts residents will have clarity over their immediate future and an opportunity to shape the longterm future under` a new Council proposal.

At its meeting on March 13, the Council agreed a new draft Deed of Licence was to be put to the Huts residents, ahead of the current licence expiring on June 30 this year.

The new licence offers residents up to 15 years at the site as they work with the Council on the process for the long-term future. Licences would not be renewed after 15 years, in line with the other

hut communities of Lower Selwyn Huts and Greenpark Huts that border Te Waihora. The Council also voted to reduce the cost to the Huts community for installing a new wastewater pipeline, with the proposal that the cost of the pipeline be 70% paid by the Council.

The Council had initially proposed to build a bespoke wastewater solution on site, paid for by the community, but it has since agreed to connect the Upper Selwyn Huts to the Pines Wastewater Treatment Plant as part of a wider project to connect the Ellesmere area.

With the increased cost of this project and being part of a larger district project, the Council agreed to reduce the costs covered by the Hut’s community. The draft Deed of Licence will now be circulated to owners to consider, with a new licence needing to be in place byJune 30, 2024.

“These are not easy conversations. We need to take the time to work closely with the community and ensure residents are cared for and supported and that’s what we’ll be focussing on now,” Deputy Mayor Malcolm Lyall says.

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