Issue 250
Local News for Local Communities
Thursday 29th October 2026
Phone: 03 318 7450 | Email: rolleston@malvernnews.co.nz | Web: www.malvernnews.co.nz Got something Newsworthy? Let us know too!
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Christmas Gift Drive Brings Joy to Older Residents Page 4
Gardening and Landscaping Pages 8 & 9
Futures Labs HQ Opens Young Minds Page 10
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ROLLESTON COLLEGE RUGBY CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS Rolleston College rugby has enjoyed a landmark year, highlighted by its first international tour to Japan and recognition as School of the Year at the Canterbury Rugby Awards. Rolleston College rugby director Alby Wilson, who accompanied the college’s 1st XV on the tour, described it as an incredible opportunity for players to experience a different style of rugby, broaden their horizons and potentially open doors to future opportunities in Japan. Playing in Osaka and Yokohama, the team quickly adapted to Japanese customs, where humility, respect and
good manners are highly valued. “The boys adapted, they had to,” Alby says, noting that bowing and learning to say arigato gozaimasu (thank you very much) became part of the experience. On the field, Rolleston encountered disciplined opponents who excelled in setpiece rugby, particularly scrums and lineout mauls. Japanese teams also demonstrated pace, flair and skilful attacking play, challenging the visitors to adapt to a faster game, particularly in the heat. Beyond the matches, the players embraced many opportunities to share their own traditions while learning about Japanese culture. They performed their school haka, supported speeches with waiata and incorporated Japanese phrases into their addresses. The team also learnt a famous Japanese song and sang to thank hotel staff,
Landmark year: Rolleston College rugby director Alby Wilson and Emily McIntyre, Teacher in Charge of Rugby, proudly hold their School of the Year award received at the 2026 Canterbury Rugby Awards. Emily also received the 2026 Volunteer of the Year award from Ellesmere Rugby Sub Union.
restaurant workers and their hosts. One of the most memorable moments came during a training session with Osaka International University’s rugby
team. Afterwards, the Rolleston players taught their Japanese counterparts the school haka and how to perform the pūkana.
Continued on page 13…...
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Thursday 29th October 2026
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DOUBLE CELEBRATIONS FOR LOCAL SUPERMARKET PAK'nSAVE Rolleston is on a roll, not only for celebrating its first birthday in October but also for being among the medal winners at this year’s Dunninghams Great New Zealand Sausage Competition. Winning creations at the event are recognised among the country’s best at the special awards evening. Canterbury producers were among the 67 sausage makers nationwide to take home medals. A record-breaking 869 entries were submitted this year by 126 sausage makers nationwide, all competing for
the ultimate accolade of being named New Zealand’s Supreme Sausage, which was won by North Island butchery, Mapari Meats. Leading the medal tally for the South Island was PAK’nSAVE Rolleston, which took home three medals, including gold for its Italian Casalinga sausage in the Continental Fresh category. The team also earned silver for its Mexicana, Brisket & Jalapeno and Smokey Texan Lamb sausages in the Flavours of the World category. Judge Brian Everton from
Cabernet Foods says, "The standard of entries seems to go up another level every year." He praised the care and pride producers put into their sausages, and says it really comes through in the texture and all the technical aspects of making a great sausage. At the final stage of judging, Brian says it ultimately comes down to the combination of flavours and innovation. "Those are the things that can lift one sausage above another."
HORORATA HIGHLAND GAMES The Hororātā Highland Games celebrates its 15th year on Saturday, November 7, with new attractions and returning favourites adding to the Scottish spirit and spectacle. The Woolston Brass Band joins the pipe bands during the Welcoming Ceremony, then performs a mini concert at 1.15pm. The Duncan Cotterill Stage welcomes back the Southern Celtic Ensemble and
touring act Celtic Caim for Celtic songs, jigs and reels. Visitors can test their strength for free on the new Solid Steele Strength Tester, while children aged 5 to 12 can join Coffee Culture’s free sack races. Register for the races at Event Info on Games Day; numbers are limited, so early registration is recommended. The What Now team will film at the Games, with competitors taking on the famous Quiz Mat and trying to avoid getting slimed. At the gate, a clan challenge invites everyone to find six letters and uncover a secret word, with a Scottish Weebox prize up for grabs. There’s team action, too. The Signature Homes Tug O’ War is free to enter, with Men’s, Mixed and Youth grades. Winning Men’s and Mixed
teams receive a share of $600 cash and medals. Entries close at 12pm on Friday, November 6. Teams have six members; anyone needing teammates can get in touch to be matched with others. Children aged 8 to 13 can enter the Harraways Junior Warriors Team Competition in teams of four, tackling the Toss the Caber, Stone Putt, Farmers Walk and Junior Warriors Stones. Entry is $20 per team and includes Games admission for all competitors and one team manager. Entries close Wednesday, November 4; there will be no entries on Games Day. More than 120 market and food stalls offer plenty to explore. There are no gate sales, so make sure to get Games tickets before the day.
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ZORAN RAKOVIC A retired structural engineer with a proven track record of community advocacy, independent candidate Zoran Rakovic is standing to bring practical, effective representation to Selwyn. Having arrived in New Zealand in 1995, Zoran built his life from scratch through persistence, hard work, and business ownership, employing local staff, managing real risk, and dealing directly with regulation. Following the Canterbury earthquakes, Zoran stood firm alongside more than 500 Canterbury families through exhausting bureaucratic and insurance battles, ensuring residents were not ground down by official process. His structural engineering career spans thousands of national projects, grounding him in clear problem-solving, financial accountability, and effective team collaboration. Zoran believes rapid regional growth must not result in Selwyn being taken for granted or managed from afar. With local towns and rural districts facing escalating living costs, stretched health services, and immense pressure on infrastructure, he advocates for direct, common-sense solutions over costly consultants and political spin. His priorities include improving access to rural GPs, ensuring new subdivisions pay their fair share of infrastructure costs, and protecting rural communities from losing their voice through council amalgamation. Rejecting career politics, Zoran pledges to be an accessible representative who listens first, reads the fine print, challenges under-performing systems, and delivers straightforward, plain-language outcomes for Selwyn families.
ELIZABETH MUNDT I am a second-term Selwyn District Councillor, mother of three, foster mum to nine, and hobbyist organic small-scale farmer. NZ First’s pillars of common sense, nationalism, patriotism and social conservatism reflect my values. Many New Zealanders are struggling with the cost of living, job insecurity, housing affordability and debt. NZ First has a vision to double our economy by 2050, strengthening our nation’s future. Energy security underpins our households, industries and jobs. We will reform electricity markets to deliver more affordable power and strengthen fuel security by identifying and protecting strategic energy, geothermal and CO₂ storage sites. Mining contributes billions to our economy and supports thousands of jobs. Returning 50% of mining royalties to regions can help fund water services, flood protection,
energy generation, tourism, transport and housing. We will reduce small-business tax from 28% to 20% to encourage investment, productivity and job creation. Purchasing BNZ would increase competition and help retain profits in New Zealand. We will also withdraw from the Paris Accord and establish a
KiwiSaver scheme with a $1,000 birth kickstart to help young New Zealanders buy their first homes. Every New Zealand citizen deserves opportunities for employment, housing and a good quality of life. I want to protect what makes our country safe, prosperous and a wonderful place to live.
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CHRISTMAS GIFT DRIVE BRINGS JOY TO OLDER RESIDENTS A local nurse is calling on the community to help bring Christmas cheer to older people who may be isolated over the festive season. Sam McInnes began collecting gifts for Age Concern as a way to teach her children about the spirit of Christmas, caring for others and giving back. Through her nursing work, Sam has seen first-hand how vulnerable some older people can be when they have limited social connections and support. She wanted to make Christmas more special for them while involving her own blended family and friends, whose foster children have also benefited from community generosity. “We felt it was important to help them learn about the importance of giving back and being part of the community,”
she says. “Our kids all get so excited when parcels arrive at the front door, and they love the idea of making sure everyone gets a present at Christmas.” After Sam connected with Bec and the Age Concern team and shared a few community notices, the response exceeded expectations. Local people donated about $1500 worth of goods last year, and she hopes the total can double this year. “This helps our older community who may not have lots of support or social connections at Christmas to know they are appreciated and someone has been thinking of them,” Sam says. “We aim to sprinkle joy and make sure everyone has a wee treat under the tree.” With cost-of-living pressures affecting many older people,
useful donations include tinned food, tea, coffee, breakfast cereal, cup soups, toiletries, handkerchiefs, men’s socks, word searches, crosswords, jigsaw puzzles, magazines, books, cookbooks in new condition, and Christmas treats. Sam is also seeking handmade Christmas cards from local families and hopes schools will get involved. She can provide cards for children to decorate. “Even a handwritten card can have a great impact,” she says. Donations must reach Sam or a drop-off site by Sunday, December 6. For donation and drop-off details, contact Sam on 027 325 3901 or email macca1344@gmail.com. Drop-off locations are currently available in Lincoln, Rolleston and Hornby.
Rolleston nurse Sam McInnes is looking for donations for her Age Concern Gift Drive.
Thursday 29th October 2026
It’s been a big few weeks in Rolleston. The next stage of the town centre has been confirmed, more than 100 of you came to our first Local Matters meeting, and many of you have been asking us hard questions about water billing. Here’s where things are at.
ROLLESTON’S TOWN CENTRE TAKES ITS NEXT STEP Stage two of Rolleston Town Centre will bring new shops, eateries and offices to the heart of town. Cooper Developments is delivering the commercial buildings, with construction due to start in February 2027, with all buildings expected to be finished by December 2027.
Rolleston is expected to pass 50,000 residents within the next decade. A town that size needs a proper centre where people can work, meet, eat and shop close to home.
sheet of paper, so your ideas count now. Please share them with any of us, and we’ll bring the draft back to you early next year. A summary of the Q&A from Local Matters, alongside the presentation will go on THANK YOU FOR selwyn.govt.nz/localmatters COMING TO LOCAL this week. You’ll also find the MATTERS dates for the Malvern, Springs More than 100 of you joined us and Ellesmere meetings. at Te Ara Ātea on Sunday 18 October. Councillors Sophie WATER BILLING McInnes, Big Red Shefford and We know higher water bills are Rhys Laraman and I covered hard for a lot of households. In roading projects, zoning and February we told you that we fast-track housing, and getting found problems with how ready for summer, followed by some properties were billed in a great Q&A session. the past. We also started talking about The Council and Selwyn Water the Long-Term Plan, our tenhave been going through year plan. Councillors are billing records so everyone building the draft from a clean receiving the same service is charged the same way. We’re now checking about 2700 properties to confirm they’re billed correctly. Early estimates suggest up to $2.9 million in drinking water clinical capacity available on charges may not have been each shift." billed over 18 months. In response to demand, we An independent review by have already increased clinical PwC went to Finance & resourcing. Phoenix Health Performance on 22 October. Hub Rolleston and Health NZ No decisions have been made continue to review patient yet about what happens with volumes and capacity any unbilled charges. We’ll requirements to ensure the share more as soon as we can. service can meet the Questions about your bill? community’s needs. Raghav acknowledges and The Selwyn Water team will thanks all the clinical and talk it through with you: frontline staff. selwynwater.co.nz/contact-us. "Their hard work, dedication and professionalism have been essential in establishing the service and supporting patients and families through periods of high demand." He says Phoenix Healthcare is encouraged by the community’s response and appreciates the patience of patients and families as they continue to develop the service. "Our focus remains on providing accessible afterhours care closer to home."
AFTER-HOURS HEALTH SERVICE EXCEEDS FORECAST Since the service opened on August 8, 2026, demand has exceeded the initial forecast of approximately 300 patients per month. Raghav Shekhawat, Executive Lead of Operational Growth and Integration for Phoenix Healthcare says, "We saw 765 patients between August 8 and 30, followed by 750 patients during September. This strong uptake demonstrates the value of having after-hours care available closer to home for the Selwyn community." The service opened during the peak winter flu season, which was an important factor in early demand. The original projections were based on the previous year’s figures and did not account for seasonal variation. "There have been occasions when the service has reached capacity. Our priority is to ensure patients receive safe, appropriate care within the
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Thursday 29th October 2026
AWARD-WINNING RURAL DEMENTIA CARE IN THE HEART OF THE DARFIELD Peaceful Pines Living, a rural aged care facility in Darfield, is celebrating national recognition once again as a finalist in the NZ’s Best Awards for Best Aged Care (Small) in the South Island. In 2025, the facility was recognised at NZ’s Best Awards for Outstanding Enjoyable Food – Aged Care and Outstanding Knowledgeable and Caring Staff – Aged Care. These accolades reflect its ongoing commitment to delivering quality care, nutritious and enjoyable meals,
and compassionate support in a peaceful country setting. Surrounded by open spaces, fresh air and tranquil rural views, the facility offers a welcoming, homely environment for older people. Its personalised approach focuses on dignity, comfort and meaningful connections, ensuring each resident is supported according to their individual needs. Dedicated staff provide compassionate care while encouraging familiar routines, engaging activities and
opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. The rural setting offers a sense of calm and connection, helping residents feel safe, valued and at home. This recognition highlights the facility’s commitment to creating a place where residents and their families can feel confident that care, compassion and country living go hand in hand.
Rolleston buses doubling in height Metro Christchurch is raising the roof on its popular Route 84/85 Rolleston/City direct services, literally. Next year four new double-decker buses will increase capacity on these services. The double-deckers will be funded through the public transport rating, which is already in place. Look out for a double-decker bus out and about in your community during route testing. To keep up to date with the latest news and information, visit metroinfo.co.nz/timetables/8485-rolleston-city. $12 million upgrade for Mt Hutt Mt Hutt Ski Area will undergo a $12 million base-area expansion ahead of the 2027 winter season, nearly tripling its outdoor deck space and adding new visitor facilities. The deck will grow from 430 square metres to 1,300 square metres and will be fully heated. Plans also include more storage, a new food and beverage outlet, a ground-floor toilet block and improved heated steps to snow level. Area manager James McKenzie said the upgrade would
improve base-area functionality and ease pressure on busy powder days. He said investment was needed to support Mt Hutt’s continuing growth and future demand. Construction is scheduled to begin after the 2026 winter season, with Ashburton company Bradfords Building leading the major construction project. EasyVote Cards Simplifies Voting You should have received your EasyVote card by post or email by now for the 2026 General Election. Your card includes a list of the electorate candidates you can vote for.
While you don't need to take your EasyVote card with you on voting day, it does make voting quicker and easier. Take your EasyVote card with you when you vote and show it to the workers at your voting place. They’ll use it to help find you on the electoral roll so they can mark you off and give you your voting papers. If you get your EasyVote card by post, you can tear off the card from the bottom corner of your letter or bring the whole letter. If you get your EasyVote card by email, you can bring it in on your phone to election day. You can also take a screenshot or print it out.
Award-winning care, a country heart, and a place to call home.
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ROLLESTON GARDEN CLUB By Jill Webb. October brought a whole new perspective to the garden with late-spring flowering plants such as rhododendrons, camellias, peonies and irises, along with thoughts of planting summer vegetable crops. Get your garden ready with plenty of good garden mix for veg and flowers. Try some of the different ones like capsicums, eggplants, Chinese veg, courgettes, cucumbers, tomatoes and early potatoes, but be careful as we can get a cold spell and late frosts so have some cover ready. Look at the great selection of flowering plants to bring in bees for pollination, including marigolds, cosmos, larkspur and many more. Outings have been going on in the club over the last couple of months with visits to the Herbarium and this
month to Tai Tapu Sculptures Garden and Raspberry Cafe. In November, we have a speaker on irises and hydrangeas, then
of course December brings our Christmas lunch outing. For more info: Julie 03 347 1511 or Anne 03 347 8817.
LONG-LASTING FLORAL ART DESIGNS Rolleston Floral Art Interest Group met recently at Broadfields Hall creating pavéstyle designs. These were made in a flat dish containing sand or moss with a range of different plant materials including cones, succulents and foliage plus a few flowers. These designs are long-lasting with only the flowers needing to be replaced when necessary,
which means they can be changed to whatever is available in the garden at the time. At the Christmas meeting in December, long trays for the table will be created. Those interested in joining this small, friendly group can contact Carol Rains on 027 224 1033 or email ctrains1871@gmail.com.
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Thursday 29th October 2026
SPECIAL WEDNESDAY OPEN DAY The team at Terrace Station, in Hororata, is opening the gates for a special mid-week Open Garden Wednesday on November 11. With so many different events in Canterbury during the month while the garden is looking its best, this extra opportunity to enjoy the serenity at Terrace Station will be a treat for garden lovers and those who simply enjoy time outside. Some special flowers will be on show, including Paeonia veitchii, possibly Magnolia sieboldii and the wellestablished rhododendrons always look great under the huge trees in the garden. The 17-hectare plantation will also be open, and visitors can walk amongst the oaks, elms and sycamores.
Visitors can bring a picnic to enjoy in a sheltered corner of the garden and there are chairs available. Some homegrown woodland plants will be for sale (bring cash). The historic farming and gardening tools in the Hutch also give a glimpse of how work was done in this garden over 100 years ago. The $15 entry fee goes
towards maintenance of the garden and buildings. Please leave dogs at home. Eftpos is not available. The property will be signposted from the Hororata roundabout. Please check Facebook and Instagram in case of inclement weather. For more information about Terrace Station open days and group tours, visit terracestation.org.nz.
Kate Foster standing alongside a previous plant sale.
NOVEMBER GARDENING November marks the busiest, young seedlings. most rewarding month for • The Frost Guard: Keep frost gardens in Rolleston as the cloth on hand. Late-season Canterbury Plains transition cold snaps are common, and fully into summer. a sudden overnight drop can Canterbury Show Day is a easily ruin unprotected traditional benchmark for zucchini, cucumbers, and planting frost-tender crops pumpkins. Rolleston’s unique micro- • Moisture Lockdown: climate, characterised by Rolleston soils dry out rapidly draining soils and incredibly fast under the parching northwesterly winds, summer sun. Lay down a requires a strategic approach thick layer of pea straw or to ensure a thriving harvest. bark mulch over veggie beds BEATING THE ELEMENTS: and around fruit trees to lock • Wind Guarding: Fierce in moisture and suppress spring winds can snap young competitive weeds. stalks. Stake your tomatoes, WHAT TO PLANT NOW: peppers, and beans • The Veggie Patch: Once soil immediately at planting time, temperatures consistently or use cloches to protect push past 15°C, plant out
your tomatoes, chillies, sweetcorn, and eggplants. Stagger your sowings of salad greens, carrots, and radishes every three weeks for a continuous summer harvest. • Summer Flowers: November is peak time for planting dahlia tubers, gladiolus corms, and vibrant annuals like marigolds and petunias. By prioritising wind protection and moisture retention this month, your garden will be perfectly primed to beat the heat and deliver a spectacular summer bounty.
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FUTURES LABS HQ OPENS YOUNG MINDS TO CANTERBURY’S FUTURE
Why Is My Computer Running Slow? A slow computer is one of the most common tech frustrations, but before rushing out to buy a new one, there are a few simple things worth checking. Too Many Programs Running Every open program uses memory and processing power. Having too many applications or browser tabs open can slow things down. Try closing anything you're not using and disabling unnecessary programs that start automatically. Your Storage Is Almost Full Computers need free storage space to run e iciently. Aim to keep at least 15 to 20 percent of your drive free. Empty your Recycle Bin, clear unnecessary downloads, or move large files to external storage. Your Computer Needs Updating Software updates often include performance improvements and bug fixes. Check for updates in Windows Settings or Mac System Settings and keep your internet browser updated too. Your Hard Drive Is Struggling Older computers often use traditional hard drives, which are slower than modern solid-state drives (SSDs). Upgrading to an SSD can make a noticeable di erence without replacing your computer. It Could Be Malware Viruses and malicious software can cause unexpected slowdowns. Watch for unusual pop-ups or strange behaviour and run a trusted antivirus scan if you're concerned.
Still running slowly? Call the Geeks on 0800 424 335 and we'll help get things running smoothly again!
Preparing young people for a rapidly changing world is the driving force behind Futures Labs HQ, a Canterbury initiative connecting students with emerging industries and future opportunities. Founded by Kylie Horgan in August 2025, Futures Labs HQ helps young people build the confidence, curiosity and adaptability needed to navigate uncertainty around employment, AI and economic security. “We spend so much time trying to solve the problems we have today that I wonder whether we’re spending enough time looking ahead and helping young people feel confident about what’s coming,” Kylie says. Inspired by futures literacy, she wants students to recognise change, challenge assumptions and explore possibilities. A conversation with Dawn Aerospace co-founder Stephen Powell helped shape the idea of connecting more young people with innovators.
Canterbury was a natural starting point, with growing aerospace, technology and other emerging industries, support from ChristchurchNZ and a network of futuresthinking specialists. The eight-week programmes combine online learning, industry visits, mentoring and hands-on challenges. Students discover aerospace careers beyond engineering and science, including design, law, environmental science, communications and business. Students from Lincoln High School and Rolleston College have participated alongside young people from 14 other Canterbury schools and from Buller. In the first Aerospace for Good programme, 94 per cent of students responding to online feedback said it increased their curiosity about aerospace or a related field. For Kylie, success means students recognising options they had not considered. “If a student goes away thinking, ‘I
didn’t know that was an option for someone like me,’ that’s a pretty important shift,” she says. Futures Labs plans to bring back Aerospace for Good in 2027, launch an energy and sustainable transport lab, and develop an innovation experience for senior students. By 2028, it aims to offer four Year 11 programmes covering aerospace, agritech, cleantech and healthtech. Kylie particularly wants young people from Darfield and the wider Malvern area involved. “I don’t think access to opportunities should depend on your postcode, which school you attend, who your parents know or what your family can afford.” She hopes schools, businesses and community groups will connect students with mentors, industry experiences and sponsored places. To register your interest or find out more, visit futureslabshq.com.
Opportunities abound for young people in Selwyn to take part in Aerospace for Good in 2027.
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Thursday 29th October 2026
IS NOW THE RIGHT TIME? By Ginny Nelson, GMI Mortgage Adviser Buying a home is fraught with big decisions – not least the question, ‘Is it the right time?’ With elections, housing prices and endless other potential hiccups, you can be forgiven for hesitating. However, with buying a home you need to decide if you are ready. The world will always pose complications but if you are house ready then you can lessen the impact of outside influences. Do your homework. Get your
accounts in order and budget for a mortgage to see if you can safely pay one and still live comfortably. Save an extra $100 or $200 a fortnight over and above your rent to prove to yourself and the bank that you can manage your money effectively. If you are already paying a high rent and figure the mortgage repayments would be less, remember interest rates can and will rise – you need to factor this in. Learn to live within your means – chop up your credit
MENZ SHED UPDATE By Sandy Ferguson A recent Shed job might remind people of a British TV programme, "The Repair Shop". A trike was brought into the Shed. It looked like a heap of scrap metal. The frame was cleaned and painted. Wheels from a scrapped lawnmower were used to replace the original broken back ones. The saddle and plastic bar ends were still usable after cleaning. It now looks as if it has just come new out of a shop. The Shed has new members regularly joining. Though our membership is from 16 years old, most are retired and, in an age, where mental health is commonly mentioned in the media. One of a Men's Shed's reasons for existing is for the companionship and giving reason to retired men. Some members never touch a tool, but it is the Shed that is the "thing" that helps. Always the important items are a cuppa and biscuit and the companionship that goes with it.
The Shed is open Saturday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 9am until mid-day. For more information, visit rollestonshed.wordpress.com
The completed trike.
and store cards and future proof for things that can go wrong – car and house repairs and maintenance are a given. The ‘right time’ is always going to be obvious in hindsight, but a home is not a ‘liquid’ asset. You are in it for the long haul and, generally speaking, 10 years down the track it will be worth more than you paid today, notwithstanding outside factors such as inflation.
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PICK A LOCAL MP, PICK A PARTY Your MMP Ballot: Less Scary Than It Looks The ballot paper looks simple: two ticks, no essay questions. But those ticks do different jobs. Think of one as choosing the team for Parliament, and the other as choosing your local representative. They can be for the same party or not. MMP is flexible like that. Tick One: The Big-Picture Party Vote The party vote sits in the lefthand column, and it is the heavyweight of the ballot. This vote decides the overall share of seats each political party wins in Parliament. If a party collects 30 per cent of the nationwide party vote, they get roughly 30 per cent of the 120 seats in the House. To get through the front door, a party must either win at least 5 per cent of the party vote nationwide or win at least one local electorate seat. If they miss both, those party votes do not count towards seat allocations. Tick Two: The Selwyn Local Hero The right-hand column is all about local representation. Here, voters choose one person to advocate for Selwyn in Wellington. This is a classic First-Past-the-Post contest: the candidate with the most
individual votes wins the electorate outright, even if the margin is just a single tick. Voters in Selwyn have a wide line-up to consider: Alma De Anda (Green Party), Sunita Gautam (Labour Party), Nicola Grigg (National Party), Jesse Luke (Alliance Party), Adrian Mee (The Opportunity Party), Elizabeth Mundt (New Zealand First), Iain Murray (ACT New Zealand), and independent candidate Zoran Rakovic. The List Lifeline and the Split Vote What happens if a party earns 40 seats via the party vote, but only 10 local electorate candidates win? The party simply fills the remaining 30 seats using its pre-ranked "party list". Best of all, voters do not have to choose the same party across both columns. Splitting votes is entirely legal and very common. Anyone can back their favourite local candidate on the right, while directing their crucial party vote to a completely different party on the left.
Every November, community social media pages fill with distressed appeals from pet owners dealing with terrified animals as Guy Fawkes celebrations get underway. While official advice from councils and animal welfare organisations often circulates once the loud bangs have already begun, pet owners frequently find that reacting in the moment is simply too late. With retail fireworks going on sale soon, now is the ideal window to take proactive steps to safeguard household pets. Rather than waiting to manage panic on the night, animal lovers can achieve substantial, lasting results through sound desensitisation. The strategy mainly relies on gradually normalising explosive noises before they occur live in the area. Fireworks audio tracks, widely available on streaming services and video platforms, can be played quietly in the background during normal household routines. Introducing these sounds while animals are relaxed or engaged in positive
experiences, such as feeding or play, helps prevent them from fixating on the noise. This allows their subconscious to process the sounds gently in an environment where they already feel safe and content. A measured, patient approach is essential. Sessions should be kept short, subtle, and easily manageable, with the volume increased gradually over several weeks. Owners should pay close attention to body language throughout the process. If a pet freezes, shows signs of anxiety, stops eating, or cannot be redirected with toys, the session should stop immediately. Owners can pause for a few hours and try again later at a lower volume and for a shorter duration. When Guy Fawkes week finally arrives, continuing to play background noises or low-level fireworks audio can also help buffer unexpected neighbourhood displays. Because the sounds are already familiar, genuine explosions will not come as a sudden, novel shock. For those who share their
homes with sensitive companions, early preparation offers a calm, practical solution. Taking just a few minutes, each day, right now can make all the difference in ensuring the upcoming season remains peaceful for animals and owners alike. LETTING OFF FIREWORKS IN YOUR BACK YARD? Let all your neighbours know. Pop a note in their letterbox with the date and time you are planning to let them off so they can make sure their pets are kept safe and free from harm.
ROLLESTON AND DISTRICTS LIONS CLUB
ROLLESTON CENTRAL PROBUS By Jill Webb. It's now the end of October and we've had all sorts of Probus Month celebrations within the organisation. SWELL has just been this month and was a good event to find out all sorts of organisations and things to do in the mature time of our lives. Our group is always doing great things to keep members’ interest - well done to the people who organise trips such as Ravenscar and the Terrace Station, which once belonged to Sir John Hall, a past member of parliament, and an advocate
PREPARE PETS EARLY FOR FIREWORKS SEASON
for Kate Shepherd's vote for women. We enjoyed a great garden with many outbuildings followed by lunch at Hororata Cafe. Our October speaker was Don Hayes, our one and only ambassador for our area. In November, we have an outing to Arion Farm and Civil Defence. Come along and enjoy these great outings and speakers for 'Fun, Friendship and Fellowship'. To join our group, phone Herb on 03 321 7466 or Iris on 021 029 3598.
By Val Knowles. The decision has been made after two tea meetings at the “Golden Mile Tavern” to stay. There is so much more room and it's not noisy. I think it is a good decision. We inducted three new members at our last tea meeting so now the numbers are increasing we need more room. Christmas cakes are coming on stream and although we have another Club crashing in on our area to sell their cakes ours, ours will be here in Rolleston and not in Lincoln. We have funded the Burnham Boxing Club, firewood where needed, and the Hope Church, which has a weekly BBQ that is free to those who need an
extra meal. The harvest carriers' food rescue collects use-by food from supermarkets and redistributes it where needed. Recently, the Halswell Lions invited three members from our Club to a 10-pin bowling challenge to try to beat them for a trophy. As yet, I have not heard the result. Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) have sent a huge amount of money to Nepal to help in the tragic
floodings they have had and the huge loss of life. Our next project is the fireworks at Fraser Park at the end of this month where we cook our famous hot dogs and chips. Early November is Toot 4 Tucker and at the end of November is our Santa Parade. To find out more about the club, email rollestonlionsclub@ gmail.com
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Thursday 29th October 2026
ROLLESTON COLLEGE RUGBY CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS
First international tour: Rolleston College 1st XV played in Osaka and Yokohama, Japan.
...continued from front page. Despite language barriers, the experience demonstrated how rugby and shared traditions could bring people together through mutual respect. Alby says the players had been outstanding ambassadors for their college and New Zealand culture. The tour also allowed him to establish connections that could develop into future rugby pathways for students interested in returning to Japan. Making the trip possible required huge community support. Families began fundraising in January, while local businesses, including PAK’nSAVE Rolleston, Mike Greer Homes, Makikihi Fries, Coolpak Coolstores and Gameson Racing, contributed
towards individual players. Looking ahead, Alby says the programme remained focused on creating opportunities and developing players through commitment and strong values. With former students coaching younger teams, a flourishing girls’ programme and the combined 1st XV reaching its first-ever grand final against Christchurch Girls’ High School, Rolleston rugby is building a strong foundation for the future. The Canterbury award recognises not only on-field achievements, but also a programme committed to developing young people both as rugby players and as individuals.
FROM HEAD STUDENT TO THE AMERICAN DIAMOND Rolleston College’s 2026 Head Student, Jade Croskery, is trading her school blazer for a softball glove after officially committing to Kansas City Community College (KCKCC) in the United States. The Rolleston student secured her spot with the Blue Devils following an outstanding recruitment journey alongside the College Baseball Softball Recruiting (CBSR) pathway. Renowned for her relentless work ethic, determination, and exceptional leadership on and off the diamond, Jade is set to take her academic and athletic journey to the next level in 2027. Jade's journey to get to this level of softball took plenty of commitment. She says balancing academics, responsibilities as a head student, and the recruiting process for a US softball scholarship required a lot of organisation, discipline and sacrifice. "Between all the training, games, tournaments, schoolwork, leadership commitments, and calls with American coaches, one of my biggest challenges was making sure I could fit everything in while still being fully present and giving my best to each commitment," Jade says. She soon learned the importance of planning ahead, keeping everything in her calendar, and managing different time zones so she could give each opportunity the time and attention it deserved. Jade says having the support of Rolleston College made a huge difference throughout her journey. "My teachers, student leadership team (SLT) staff and coaches were incredibly understanding and supportive, and having people who recognised my goals,
encouraged me to pursue opportunities and support me when things got busy made a real difference." Committing to Kansas City Community College brought a mix of excitement and relief and Jade felt the college was the right fit after speaking with the coach, learning about the softball programme, and considering its Exercise Science pathway. Looking ahead, she plans to keep improving her pitching, hitting, strength, conditioning, and consistency before heading to the US. Her goals are to work hard, be a strong teammate, earn playing opportunities, succeed academically, and grow as both
an athlete and a person. Jade is excited to experience life in America, meet new people, travel, and become more independent, while also acknowledging nerves about leaving home, family, friends, Kiwi culture, and familiar comforts. Her advice to other Canterbury athletes is to start collecting footage early, reach out for guidance, stay patient, work hard, and not give up when the recruitment process feels uncertain. "There will be setbacks, but don’t let them make you give up on your dream. If you keep putting yourself out there and taking opportunities, you never know where it might lead."
ROLLESTON WARRIORS FLOORBALL Congratulations to Rolleston Canterbury Floorball are Warriors U12s, who travelled to trialling a new women's Queenstown recently to floorball session. Whether compete in the Kiwi Junior you're completely new to Rugby League Festival – floorball or looking to get back Global Games 2026 and came into sport, everyone is away with the U12s Team welcome. Selwyn Sports Champions Award. Centre, Wednesdays 6pm.
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Thursday 29th October 2026
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Thursday 29th October 2026 PAINTING & DECORATING
PAINTING & DECORATING
WANTED
AMMUNITION & reloading equipment. Powder projec les, presses etc.Any calibre. Anything hun ng related.
TOOLS BUSINESS CARDS
CHIMNEY CLEANING CARRS Chimney Cleaning. Servicing the Selwyn district. $90 per chimney. Please ph Rodney on 03 324 2999 and leave a message. CHIM Chim. We'll sweep your log-burners flue, check the firebricks, baffles, air-tubes and controls. We're experts on coal-ranges, also sweeping any sized open fire. We quote and undertake repairs, flue extensions and install bird netting. 021 939 113 Members NZHHA.
CARPET
ROOF MAINTENANCE
URBAN, LIFESTYLE, FARM
ROOF & house maintenance. GENERAL property care. Services A l l a s p e c t s c o v e r e d provided include: cleaning including spouting, mortar, services (inside & out), tiles, re-roofing, roof painting, g a r d e n i n g , f e n c i n g , moss, mould & silicone m a i n t e n a n c e , g o r s e / sealing. General repairs. weed control, spraying, hedges, chainsaw work, mowing. All Please phone 03 347 6702 tasks considered. H Donaldson. or 021030 2835. Ph 027 789 9532. SITUATIONS VACANT
mechanics, engineering, wood working etc. Garage, shed, barn clearances, deceased estates etc.
Cash buyer. Ph Rob 03 342 5885. WINDOW CLEANING
SITUATIONS VACANT
DEADLINE
ADVERTISING DEADLINE: Wed 18 November FIREWOOD & COAL WILLOW wood. 4 and 8 Meter loads. Dry. Good clean burning wood. Free delivery. Phone 027 781 1492.
CATTERY
WINDOW TINTING TINT-A-WINDOW Solar Protective films. Fade UV block. Heat Glare control. Privacy. Safety/Security. Frosted films. Free online quotes. Email: info@tintawindow.co.nz www.tintawindow.co.nz Phone 0800 368 468.
SITUATIONS VACANT
CELEBRANT
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Thursday 29th October 2026
A woman walks into a pet shop looking for a unique companion. The owner smiles and points to a small frog. "This frog is special," the owner says. "It can perform karate." Sceptical, the woman replies, "Prove it." The owner places a tiny piece of wood on the counter and orders, "Frog, karate that wood!" The frog leaps up, chops the wood perfectly in half, and bows. Impressed, the woman buys the frog immediately and takes it home. When her husband returns from work, she enthusiastically tells him about their amazing new pet. The husband scoffed, completely unimpressed. "Karate?" he laughed loudly. "Yeah right! Frog, karate my foot!"