DEC

Obser ver

this issue

INSIDE

the

DECEMBER 2020

Homemade Christmas gift ideas Local Christmas events

December

twenty20 Happy December everyone.

It's been quite the journey to get here this year.

Who could have known the year the world would face? It has been a year of uncertainty and change, but also one where some of us actually had more time on our hands than normal. Some people had to pivot and change the way they do business, and it has brought about some hard times as well.

As we head into this Christmas season, our hope for you all is that you are able to spend time with your families, to relax and let some of the stress of the year fall away.

We have some events to get you into the Christmas spirit - the Christmas Wonderland run by the Oxford Community Trust which is on from the 16th - 24th - ad on page 14 The Oxford and Districts Lions 'Superhero' Christmas Parade on the 20th - ad on page 9, the Oxford Promotions ‘Carols in the Park‘ on Christmas Eve- ad on page 3 and the Rangiora Christmas parade - ad on page 11.

COVER PHOTO by

Tammy Pfahlert

Thank you for your support throughout the year, it means a lot to us, and our team.

Merry Christmas to you all

Bruce & Emily

You can now check out the Observer online through our website www.schnurrbartdesignandpublishing.co.nz

Schnur rbart Design & Publishing the C

Obser ver

the Bulletin

Creative

www.schnurrbartdesignandpublishing.co.nz p. 0800 627 378 37

e.info@oxfordobserver.co.nz

Observer For a confidential and obligation free appraisal of your rural, lifestyle or residential property, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Client Focused, Results Driven. www.pggwre.co.nz

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under the REAA 2008.

M 027 572 2559 | E mark.terry@pggwrightson.co.nz M 027 967 0186 | E karen.hennessy@pggwrightson.co.nz

Helping grow the country

Shane, Loretta and the World Famous Sheffield Pies Dream Team would like to thank all of our amazing customers for supporting us through this challenging year and wish you all a Very Merry Christmas & Happy 2021!

Come in and check out our Christmas Treats and Gifts, we have something for everyone!

Xmas trading hours .....

Closed 24th, 25th, 26th and 27th Dec Open 28th,29th, 30th & 31st Dec Closed 1st, 2nd & 3rd Jan Normal Hours resume 4th January

&

e. sales@sheffieldpieshop.co.nz

. s a m st i r h C y Merr 78 MAIN STREET, OXFORD 03 312 4397 51 MAIN WEST ROAD, SHEFFIELD 03 318 3876

www.sheffieldpies.co.nz Monday - Friday 6:30am - 4:00pm

Saturday & Sunday 7:00am - 4:00pm

RISTMAS H C ROL CA

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PARK IN THE

Win!

Be in to

CHRISTMAS EVE

Thursday 24 December Pearson Park Village Green, Main Street Oxford 7pm to 8.30pm • • • •

Warehouse vouchers.

1st $20.00 & 2nd $10.00

Christmas colouring competition out now!

Good old fashioned family Christmas Sing-A-Long Music provided by local talent Free Sausage sizzle, soft drinks and bottled water And a visit from Santa

Sponsored by Oxford Butchery, Wayne Roberts

Collect your copy from Harcourts Rangiora (15 Good Street), download from Facebook or email Jessica.

Brought to the community by Oxford Promotions If wet – Oxford Town Hall

www.oxfordnewzealand.co.nz

Jessica Murphy 313 6158 | 027 948 3000 jessica.murphy@harcourts.co.nz 15 Good Street, Rangiora

Four Seasons Realty Are you free on Christmas eve to help with event ? text 027 226 6755 to be involved

Four Seasons Realty 2017 Ltd | Licensed Agent REAA 2008

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three

Studio supports graduating artists words by Emily Chapman - photos Bruce Chapman

For many students graduating art school, it can be a disheartening reality that it is hard to make a living in their chosen field. Studio Dexterity based in the Old School Collective, Waikuku has been set up with the mission of “supporting graduate artists into sustainable arts careers”.

Harriet Leonard, who is the Managing Director, graduated from The Otago Polytechnic Dunedin School of Art in 2019 and found herself faced with the reality of what life as a young artist meant.

She says it is hard because you don’t make enough money from your art, so you need a job, which then makes it difficult to have the time to create the art. That along with the high commissions that some galleries take, mean an artist’s costs are often barely covered.

Studio Dexterity offers an alternative to this, with a low commission of 10% and no rent charged for resident artists, along with an inspiring place to showcase work. Harriet said the studio came about out of her need for a place to work, to stay connected to other people, and to get her work out there, and has enabled both her and other artists to take steps to make art their career.

Harriet’s work is bright, bold and detailed. She says “ my works celebrate playfulness and happiness, using shape, form and bright colours. The aim is to generate happiness and illicit a positive response in the viewer.”

Harriet Leonard & Jahna Low

Jahna Low, one of the resident artists, says “I am so excited that I am able to be a part of this. This is what artists want to be able to do, to make their own art and be able to profit from that.” She says that she enjoys the interaction with people who come in and want to chat about her work, and the processes involved. Jahna describes her style as photorealism, with a focus on wildlife. She says “I am drawn to the technique side – trying to get it as realistic as possible.”

Both Harriet and Jahna agree that a big part of a career in the arts is the mental game. It can be disheartening to go for a time without selling any of your work. Harriet says “when you buy a piece of work from a graduate, it is such a huge boost to them, and helps them to keep going”.

Not only does the Studio offer the opportunity of workspace, and a place to sell work, but thanks to funding from Te Pūtahitangi o Te Waipounamu they are going to be able to run a series of wānanga next year, to help graduate artists learn the financial, four

business, marketing and entrepreneurial skills that they need to be successful.

Studio Dexterity is based at the Old School Collective, Waikuku.

Their hours are Wednesday-Sunday 10.00am -4.00 pm.

Facebook: Studio Dexterity Instagram: Dexterity Studio Waikuku www.raka.co.nz

COAST TO COAST INVESTIGATIONS & COLLECTIONS D O C U M E N T S E RV I N G D E B T R E C OV E R Y & C O L L E C T I O N REPOSSESSION MATRIMONIAL ISSUES C OV E R T C A M E R A O P E R A T I O N S TRACING C O M P U T E R & S Y S T EM S I N V E S T I G A T I O N SECURITY CONSULTANTS F A R M A N I M A L VA L U A T I O N & W E L F A R E We provide a highly confidential and discreet service to Individuals and businesses to ensure your interests are protected.

Our team are vetted and cleared by Police, and are fully licensed Private Investigators so that you can be sure, you are looked after by the best.

LET US HELP?

03 310 2242 021 413 002

office@c2c.nz http://www.coasttocoastinvestigations.co.nz Philip Trusttum with his painting, The Gnomus, at the Arts in Oxford Gallery

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It’s December, and in the lead up to Christmas, it is nice to take some time to create thoughtful gifts for family and friends.

It is also a great way to get the kids involved in Christmas preparation.

Just take a look on Pinterest, or google DIY Christmas ideas and you will be inundated with festive ideas such as Bath salts, bath bombs, Christmas cookies, shortbread, candles, crochet dishcloths, potted herbs, jam, lemon curd, peppermint bark, sugar body scrub, homemade Christmas decorations – the list is endless.

Our front cover shows a few gifts that Tammy and Emily have put together: Brownie in a Jar, Seed Cracker Mix, Foot Soak, Dairy Free Coconut Yoghurt and Butterscotch sauce and Peppermint Bliss Balls.

Brownie In a Jar 1 ¼ cups plain flour 1 tsp salt 1 tsp baking powder 2/3 cup cocoa powder ¾ cup brown (or coconut sugar) ¾ cup caster sugar 1 cup chocolate chips 1 cup chopped walnuts Put all ingredients in a jar – layering in whatever order you want.

Recipe: Add 150g melted butter and 3 eggs to the dry mixture. Mix well and pour into a pan.

Bake for 25-30 minutes at 180 degrees or until cooked.

Seed cracker mix Fill a jar with 3 cups of any seeds you would like – sunflower, pumpkin, sesame, flaxseed, chia, 1 tsp salt, seasoning and dried herbs of your choice Recipe: Add 1 ½ cups of water to the seeds. Stir all the ingredients together and leave for 20 minutes for the seeds to absorb the water.

Chia seeds are great because they will help bind the crackers together.

Spread the mixture over a lined baking tray – don’t make the layer too thin. Bake at 160 degrees for 1 hour or until crisp and once cool break into pieces.

photos by Tammy Pfahlert

Seasons Greetings Doug, Thomas, Sarah, Mark, Shirley, Wendy, Ray and Niki of the Oxford-Ohoka Community Board

Happy Holidays We all know it has been an extraordinary year – one unlike any other any of us would ever have experienced.

Despite this, or perhaps because of it, it is important that we all make time to reflect on what Christmas is about in our own individual way.

For me, Christmas is about spending time with my family and enjoying seeing so many people in the community connect and share joy, but I especially enjoy Christmas carols.

Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and happy New Year.

wish you all a safe and enjoyable festive season with friends and family as we continue to serve our community through 2021.

For a full list of Council Service holiday hours, including our libraries, pools and kerbside collections visit the Council website. waimakariri.govt.nz

Mayor Dan Gordon and Rupert

six

Foot Soak 1 cup Epsom salts 1 cup quick oats ½ cup baking soda 30 drops of essential oil of your choice Dried rose petals or lavender Combine all ingredients and divide between the jars.

Leave the jars open for a few hours to let the ingredients dry.

Peppermint Holiday Bliss Balls 1 cup almonds 1 cup oats 1 cup pitted dates ½ cup cocoa 2 large tablespoons coconut oil Peppermint essence to taste Soak almonds and dates in hot water for 10 min. Blend all ingredients together and roll into cocoa or coconut and store in the fridge.

Enjoy creating!

Want a Quick Sale or a Good Sale?

A super fast sale isn’t always a good one. Granted, not everyone wants to take the time to test the market and find the best price it has to offer but, for most people, an extra $10K, $20K or $50K is worth the wait.

Over the years there have been many stories of agents turning up with a genuine buyer, signing up and selling a home in a day or two – all perfectly legal – only for the seller to discover another buyer, had they known, would have paid much, much more.

Houses don’t have a “recommended retail price” and council valuations are rarely accurate. The true value is only ever be realised when a willing buyer meets a willing seller in an open, competitive market.

Thinking of selling?

When you work with me, I’ll leave no stone unturned to make sure you get the best price possible.

To be clear, that doesn’t mean a long, drawn out process; in a hot market it may take only a week or two. What it does mean is that your sale will follow a proven process designed to ensure you achieve the best result possible.

This process involves thorough research to ensure the initial price is right (if a price is advertised), identifying your ideal buyer and designing a marketing campaign to attract as many people as possible to your open homes.

as much information as possible to make it easy for the buyer to say yes, following up with interested parties and strong negotiation.

If you’re selling and would like to join my long list of delighted clients, call me anytime for a friendly chat.

Other factors that contribute to a good sale, in a timely manner, are professional photography, providing

Di Moreira M 027 848 8020

Di Moreira

| Local Real Estate Specialist P 03 313 8022

E di@pb.co.nz

Property Brokers Rangiora Licensed REAA 2008

seven

P.Y.O. TREES: Come and choose your own special tree this Christmas, at your local Tree Farm. 1275 Tram Rd. Open December Weekends 9am - 6pm.

Weekdays 3pm - 5pm.

Other Sales Locations: lst - 23rd December, 7 days a week Eastgate Mall: Main car park behind Countdown. 9am till 6pm.

St Andrews College: Cricket Club, 347 Papanui Road.

Located inside the playing ďŹ eld.

CH-8533974AA

Entry off Papanui Road foot path. 10am - 6pm

CH-8533974AA

EST 2001

Call Andrew on: 027

324 7372

w w w. n e e d l e f r e s h . c o . n z

CEDAR HEIGHTS HAIR STUDIO

OPENING HOURS

Call n for an a ĆŁntment

MAIN ROAD CUST - PHONE 03 312 5322 eight

Tue 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Wed 9:00 am to 7:00 pm Thu 9:00 am to 7:00 pm Fri 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Sat 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Closed Sun & Mon

Arts in Oxford Gallery News Thank you to all our artists, volunteers and customers for helping us get through a challenging 2020.

Oxford Arts Trust is proud the gallery has reached it’s Tenth Anniversary. Arts in Oxford Gallery asks for your continued support and custom to weather the tough times ahead. We are a non-profit organisation governed by a Charitable Trust, and any income is returned into this amazing local arts centre that promotes educational opportunities & stimulating experiences to grow the Arts.

We wish all in our community a very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

OXFORD & DISTRICTS LIONS

christmas parade who is your

superhero?

Awhi mai, awhi atu, tatou, tatou e We all help one another

SUNDAY 20th DECEMBER 2020 Starts 12:30pm from Burnett Street Oxford

PRIZES FOR BEST FLOATS 1st $300 - 2nd $200 - 3rd $150 *Floats will be judged mid parade** PRIZES FOR FANCY DRESS Girls 1st $30 - 2nd $20 - 3rd $10 BOYS & GIRLS

Boys 1st $30 - 2nd $20 - 3rd $10

with or without a bike *Judging for Fancy Dress & Bikes commences at 12:00pm*

free bouncy castle & face painting

lions food caravan For further information contact Maurice on 027 240 1718 or email enquiries to : secretary.odlc@outlook.com

KIDS

AS A LIONS PROJECT WE RESERVE THE RIGHT OF ENTRY

School Holiday Art Activities Start again January 2021

Lions welcome volunteers to assist with this community event

We don’t have enough helpers to open the gallery 5 days a week

Contracting

Please register your interest at gallery

Do you have 3 hours to spare to be a gallery volunteer?

Please Apply OPEN Fri-Sun 10am-4pm CLOSED Mon-Thur & Public Holidays

 Â? Â?  Â? Â

ARTS IN OXFORD

. Art Gallery . Gift Shop . Workshops

A non- profit Charitable trust run by volunteers, Supported by : Rata Foundation and Waimakariri District Council

72 Main Street | Oxford | 03 312 1639 www.artsinoxford.com

� � � ­ € ‚ ƒ „ � … † … � � � … ‡ �  ˆƒ€ ‰ ‚€ nine

Walking the St James words and photos by Shaz Davis

In November, Shaz Davis and two friends tramped the 66km St James Walkway. She shares some of the trail adventures.

At 10.30 am on Day One we pulled into the Boyle River Outdoor Education Centre as arranged. A quick bit of pen-pushing to fill in the paperwork, and we were on our way to the start, with a driver who would return our car to Boyle River at the exit point of the track.

The clouds got thicker and turned from overcast to rain as we approached the top of Lewis Pass and the start of the Walkway. It was 6 degrees and rain for the first hour, before it cleared to a sunny afternoon, as we sloshed our muddy way through beech forest, and over small tree falls, following the Maruia River up to Cannibal Gorge Hut, and spectacular views of the towering mountain tops.

After a late lunch stop and a chat to the only other person we met on the trail, we set off for Ada Pass Hut, enjoying the open areas of tussock, and the first of many sightings of Canadian geese.

Ada Pass Hut was the coldest night on the trail, and the only hut where we failed to light the fire, despite offering three firelighters to the cause and turning into a red-faced human bellows. Sodden everything meant there was no way to light the coal fire.

Day Two dawned chilly and overcast, and remained that way until evening, as we set off for a relatively easy 10km day to Christopher Hut. The track was in worse repair than I remembered from a previous trip. There were a surprising number of fallen trees turning it into an adventure obstacle course, including a substantial patch of windfall covering more than 50m, which in hindsight added to the fun – or, at least, the tales we could tell of over-under with a heavy pack.

We arrived to find we had Christopher Hut to ourselves, and dry wood in the woodshed. Yes! We set about gathering kindling and wood from the shed and restocking the shed with wet wood on one side to dry out for future visitors - and discovered that the handle of a broken axe can chop smaller branches almost as effectively as an axe.

We had a cosy and uneventful night as the forecast rain for Day Three arrived, although the possums still held a raucous party outside in the safety of the trees.

We woke to a miserable day of drizzle and a 12km walk to Anne Hut. It was the easiest day of the trip, with limited obstacle courses and mostly flat terrain. The highlight was finally seeing two small groups of the famous St James wild horses.

The drizzle eased as we approached the final wire swing bridge, before the relatively plush Anne Hut and we soon settled into the now familiar routine of chopping wood, replenishing wood, and enjoying a relaxing afternoon with a book, or pouring over the map, looking at the route for the next day.

ten

Day Four was the challenging day of the trip with 17km to cover on a rough part of the track, littered with wash-aways.

We started and finished under overcast skies with odd patches of drizzle and sunshine. The route-finding challenges provided enough mental stimulation to take our minds off the long arduous walk.

The sudden appearance of yellow trail markers, along with the usual orange ones, did spark debate and some interesting side adventures.

We discovered at the end that yellow marked the horse access route!

We made it to Boyle Flat Hut just as the drizzle descended with more determination. Our elation of having even the final hut to ourselves was dampened by the discovery that the water tank wasn’t functioning. Water collection was added to the hut arrival routine, and we soon had the fire going with dinner on the way.

Sometime during the night, I heard a bump that sounded like a boot falling. Lying in bed I started to worry that one of our boots might have fallen against the wood burner, and imagined trying to walk out in a ruined boot… so I got up to check.

The boots were as we left them. Stifling a yawn I figured a trip to the loo was in order since I was already up.

I crept to the door, opened it, and found myself staring at a possum on a beam, at chest height, on the covered porch.

All thought of stealth departed. I slammed the door shut really loudly – more in fright than trying to keep the possum out of the hut – and attempted to outstare the possum. It stared right back.

I hissed (trying not to disturb the other hut occupants who were most certainly awake anyway).

The possum stared. I hissed again.

The possum stared then decided to make a dash passed me to safety.

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I stomped loudly, (oops, sorry again everyone), to send it on its way and picked my way through the wet grass to the long drop.

Day Five was more overcast, with intermittent sunshine and drizzle, with the addition of building winds for our walk out through the forest. A lot of the last 15km track was really boggy and there were times I thought I was on Stewart Island’s Northern Circuit; not the St James.

Rangiora Toyota

Despite the mud and makeshift log bridges through bog, we arrived at Boyle River with plenty of time to head to Maruia Hot Springs for a well-deserved soak, before driving reluctantly back to the real world.

Plus

PLAYING LIVE 12 - 5:30pm Featuring: ‘The Mike Pero Fun Zone’ Mini Jeeps -~ InflataRUN ~ Ponies 2 Go & Petting Area - The Xmas Fairy eleven

Local GP’s new publishing venture words by Emily Chapman - photos supplied

Many Oxford residents will have come across Richard Clingham in his role as General Practitioner at the Oxford Community Health Centre. However, Richard has now branched out into the world of publishing, with the release of his first book, a comic, ‘Jenny and the Eddies.’

Richard says the purpose of the book is to reach out to people, about what can be a difficult topic, vaccinations, in a fun and entertaining way. Inspiration came for the book from the Measles epidemic in 2019.

The book has reimagined a virus in the form of the forest monsters, that are silent, fast and cause suffering, and the vaccine is a dog-like character that protects against the monsters. Although aimed at young adults, it is a fun book for younger readers as well.

As the world grapples with the Covid-19 pandemic, a lot of differing views have made their way into people’s lives via social media, and Richard says, “we need to be able to protect ourselves better from the misinformation going round”.

He believes that vaccines are a victim of their own success, commenting “People no longer see the diseases as a threat, because the vaccines are so effective.”

In his school years Richard was good at both art and science, but when deciding which way to take his career – becoming a Doctor won out. Fast forward a few years, following the birth of his daughter, he started writing comics and rediscovered his love of drawing again.

With the lockdown in New Zealand earlier in the year, Richard was able to complete the book, and says it helped him to turn his nervous energy into something more creative.

The book is produced entirely in New Zealand, which he felt was important to help the economic recovery following the pandemic.

Jenny & the Eddies is available from Oxford Community Health Centre, Emma’s at Oxford & https://jennyandtheeddies.bigcartel.com. https://www.facebook.com/jennyandtheeddies

• Dozers • Graders • Dump Trucks and Trucks • Rollers • Diggers with Power Clamp • Mole Ploughing • Land Clearing/Development

• Effluent Ponds • Ponds and Dams • Root Raking • Tree Felling • Stump Removal • Tracks and Driveways • Dairy Conversions

• AP20 • AP40 • AP60 • Boulders • Silage Pits etc • Rotten Rock • Dairy & Silage pad capping

~ SITE SPECIFIC SAFETY PLANS, INSURANCE AND PUBLIC LIABILITY AT EVERY SITE ~

Phone ALEX on 027 295 6794 twelve

thirteen

Oxford’s

Christmas Wonderland

December 16th - 24th 2020

GP HALL

Showgate Drive Oxford

Opening Hours Wed 16th - Fri 18th 2PM - 8PM Sat 19th - Sun 20th 10AM - 8PM Mon 21st - Wed 23rd 2PM - 8PM Thur 24th 10AM - 8PM

Meeting Santa Wed 16th - Wed 23rd 7PM - 8PM Friday 18th 3PM -4PM Saturday 19th 3PM -4PM

$2

entry per person

All funds raised go back to the community via the work of the Oxford Community Trust

fourteen

Twilight Netball returns

VOLUNTEERS WANTED!

The Oxford Community Trust Christmas Wonderland is running again this year, with an exciting new venue.

We are looking for volunteers to help with the set up and running of this event.

If you are interested you can call the Trust 03 312 3006 and put your name down, or email Julia at oxfordnzwonderland@gmail.com.

As part of our Christmas Wonderland the Oxford Community Trust is going to set up a children’s community gift tree.

If you would like to participate by donating a gift, please bring new unwrapped gifts to the Oxford Trust office by the 21st of December and our Elves will wrap these and distribute to the community. Your generosity will be much appreciated.

The school must allow use of the courts and hoops and advertising must be done.

The time and day had to be carefully considered, to accommodate the farmers, who have immense workloads but are still keen to play.

words & photo by Beka Hunt

The netball season this year became disjointed and muddled as the sport was pushed into the height of Spring- the games were few and far between.

Each player contributes $10, and the money is given straight to the Oxford netball club, so the club must approve the evenings to assure no clashes as they also provide the gear.

The missing pieces were spectators and competition with no space for commitment or momentum.

Now as Summer brings cricket and late nights, Ella Taylor brings netball to Oxford in all its glory.

Ella had to draft and redraft the draw and on her 8 or 9th attempt (they all blend into one eventually), she had Tuesday night in Oxford covered.

Granted, the competition may still be modest, but having a laugh is worth its weight in netball shoes (or even gold).

Twilight netball has come to Oxford.

This is the second year Ella has organized Twilight netball for any willing Oxford participants. The Rangiora tournament is unappealing due to the drive, so Oxford has been known to host their own over the years.

Although she started with 8 initial teams, two had to pull out. The remaining teams are mixed family and friends, schoolmates and work colleagues.

There’s no judgement - players who have never tried netball can give it a go.

Something that Ella loves to see.

It’s all about having fun.

Amongst her final year at school, exams and her job, Ella has taken the mantle for Oxford.

An Oxford tournament meant she could play with her family and keep up her fitness for the 2021 season.

Yet one cannot simply turn up and play netball.

Whether it’s the basketball boys trying a layup, with the umpire watching in dismay, or the team with the matching neon shirts, everyone is just there to enjoy themselves in the early evening glow. It’s a much needed respite for the netball players who can find comfort in the regulated, scheduled game times.

Although Ellas commitment greatly increased her workload, I hope she sees the worth in the joy it has brought the Twilight teams as without her, there would have been no more court time this year.

Dear Oxford Community We are working hard to get Phone Consults right and continue to keep these as an available option for you.

Here is a list of things that NOT suitable for phone consults • • • • • • • • •

If your concern is urgent or you find yourself in an emergency situation.

If you are a new patient to the practice.

If you have already had a telephone consultation and you aren’t feeling any better.

If you have had a face-to-face consultation, you still have ongoing concerns but you are unable to see the same provider.

If you have a child under 2 who has acute (new and unexplained) symptoms.

If you have a child who is experiencing abdominal pain whether new or ongoing without previous diagnosis.

If you are experiencing eye problems.

If you have been experiencing ongoing symptoms but have not yet been diagnosed.

If you have had an injury and are requesting an ACC consultation.

(03) 312 4195 |

39 Park Avenue Oxford

|

FOR ANY MEDICAL EMERGENCY CALL 111 fifteen

BOT update by Matt Riley

Principals Report

Kia ora koutou katoa

with Mike Hart

We held our senior prizegiving, in November, at the Oxford Town Hall.

We recognize the importance of acknowledging that behind every prize and every success are the teachers, parents, whānau, friends and supporters, who have been with our wonderful students, every step of the way, through the highs and lows.

The evening recognised many successes.

Our major prize winners include: Outstanding Achiever Award Year 11 - Amy Riach.

Outstanding Achiever Award Year 12 - Alexander Sillars.

Bruce Upham Prize for Proxime Accessit - Ella Taylor.

Dux - Prize for Academic Achievement in Year 13 - Beka Hunt.

Photo - Andrea Kewish Photography

Photo - Charlotte Davis

Back on January 29th when the school year started no one would have envisioned 2020 turning out the way it has. 2020 will be a period in history that we are unlikely to ever forget, and a period we hope is never repeated. Covid-19 has changed our normal way of living multiple times over the year, with different Alert Levels determining how we were to live at the time.

This has been extremely disruptive for everyone within our community, but possibly more so for all of our students.

For two months of this year, they have had to do their learning from distance learning, which although challenging was embraced by most.

Credit must be given to everyone who made this learning possible, and the work in which students achieved during this time and throughout the year.

Oxford Area School Senior Prizegiving was a testament to the hard work put in by our Year 11-13 students, who accomplished some amazing achievements and successes.

The Board would once again like to congratulate all of the students on some outstanding awards presented on this celebratory evening. We would also like to acknowledge all of our senior students who have set personal goals, and have achieved successes during the year and hope your exams go well for you all.

To those senior students who leave us at the end of the year, we would like to thank you for your involvement in our school and we hope you are leaving us with fond memories, lifelong mates and enriched, ready for your next stage in life, and we wish you the very best of luck in your future endeavours.

The Board is really looking forward to our other two school prizegivings on Wednesday 9th December. Two more prestigious events that I’m sure will show us the high level of student achievement throughout a trying 2020 Oxford Area School year. See you all there!

Just a reminder that voting in our Mid-Term elections is currently taking place and that you have until December 4th to make a vote.

Hopefully, as parents, you have all received your voting papers and that you take the time to cast your vote. Your vote can make a positive difference to your child’s learning as with all of our students at Oxford Area School.

Ngā mihi

Principals Update Continued....

We also announced our 2021 student leadership team following a rigorous process: Head Boy 2021 - Liam Bamford Head Girl 2021 - Lauren Morris Deputy Head students -Journie Karaitiana-Matthews, Cole Stagg, Shaugn Kilgour Congratulations to these young men and women.

Photo - Charlotte Davis

52 Bay Road Oxford

03 312 4197

info@oxford.school.nz

Rakahuri Zone Athletics 2020

by Kendra Ward On Thursday the 5th of November, 35 Year 5-8 students represented Oxford at the Rakahuri Zone Athletics championships at Ashgrove Park, Rangiora.

Unfortunately due to our own school athletics being postponed, then cancelled, it made selecting the team to represent OAS at Rakahuri slightly challenging.

We used teacher observations during school trainings and previous results to select a team of 35 students.

Congratulations to all of our athletes who competed. They showed determination and perseverance through challenging conditions (both heat and rain) to compete to their best ability. We had some fantastic results, with 9 of our children qualifying in the top 2 to compete at Canterbury level on the 2nd of December at NgÄ Puna Wai in Christchurch. Many of our students narrowly missed out earning 3rd or 4th place.

Those who didn't make the top 3 finished in the middle or top half of their field, and should be proud of their efforts.

Thank you to the parents who came and supported the children on the day.

Thank you also to senior students Hillary Cooper, Oliver Sillars and Riley McKenzie for supporting the running of the high jump events.

Congratulations to these students for qualifying to Canterbury where they will represent OAS and the Rakahuri Zone: Millie Bourgeois - 1st Y8 Girls High Jump Aali Williams - 1st Y8 Girls Shot Put Hunter McCallum - 2nd Y8 Boys 100m sprint, 2nd Long Jump Rzaiah Lucas-Fleming - 1st Y8 Boys 80m sprint, 1st Long Jump Alice McLauchlan - 1st Y7 Girls 60m sprint Connor Slemint - 2nd Y7 Boys Shot Put Ciara Williams - 2nd Y5 Girls 60m sprint Stella Bourgeois - 2nd Y5 Girls High Jump, 2nd 80m sprint, 1st Long Jump Jake Eder - 1st Y5 Boys 80m sprint

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http://www.oxford.school.nz/

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Help our Harrier Hawks by removing carrion

2020 – Christmas is in the Air

words & photo by Shaz Davis

Christmas is very definitely in the air! Not far to go. With Show Week now well and truly behind us it’s a clear sign to us Cantabrians that Christmas isn’t far way. With that comes the inevitable “I need to do this by Christmas”, as if the world stops at Christmas Day.

with Hank Van Keulen

As it draws nearer pressures mount, tensions run high and tempers flare. We here at PPNZL have noticed that many of our clients are terribly busy. That’s a good thing given where we were in March with so much doubt and uncertainty. But that means there’ll be lots of pressure from clients to get jobs done by Christmas. As well as the things we want done ourselves, Christmas shopping, Christmas events, getting our house in order for Christmas day… and so the list goes on.

Just take a moment to reflect here. Christmas isn’t supposed to be a deadline. The sun will still come up on Boxing Day. There are still 31 days in January. Does it really matter that not everything gets done by the 25th of December? Christmas Day is just another day, albeit an incredibly special day, one where we enjoy our family and close friends. We enjoy good food, champagne, and the joy of giving. The delight of seeing our children, grandchildren opening their presents with such glee.

Over the next few weeks as we close on Christmas day, I urge you all show some tolerance and understanding for those around us and recognise those that are under pressure. Learn to “no, I can’t do that

by Christmas” rather than putting yourselves under too much strain and then in the end not being able to deliver anyway. Take a little time to smell the roses on the way…

“Harrier Hawks, also known as Kahu, Swamp Harriers or Australasian Harriers, will feed on carrion or roadkill at any time of the year, but you’re more likely to see harriers feeding on the road when food is scarce over the colder months; when there are no ducklings, no baby pukeko, and the rabbits and hares are hibernating,” says Scotty Bowman from Oxford Bird Rescue.

Removing the carrion to the side of the road, when it is safe to do so, can help to save a harrier’s life.

“When they’re hungry they will stand their ground until the last moment… and being a big bird they are slow to move. Juveniles are at higher risk because they have poor rear talon control, and can remain hooked onto their meal. If they’ve left it to the last second they’re quite susceptible to being hit by cars,” he says.

Scotty and his wife, Tracey, from Oxford Bird Rescue have been encouraging people to move carrion off the road. “If you can safely move carrion off the road – obviously not off something like SH1 – throw it off to the verge to create a safe meal out of harm's way.

But only do that if it is safe. We’d hate to be the cause of someone getting hurt,” says Scotty.

It’s not a job for the squeamish. Apparently, even mangled carrion can be moved relatively easily if you know how. Possum tails and hare ears are usually intact enough to help with removal… and Scotty says he knows of Oxford locals who carry shovels and plastic bags in their car for this purpose.

Oxford Bird Rescue focuses on raptor rescue and rehabilitation and has about 50 – 60 Harrier Hawks, and 20 – 30 Little Owls through their facility in an average year.

However, give some thought that while life becomes very frantic and the pace quickens up, distractions occur, and things inevitably can go very wrong. Our attention to detail is just not there and we make mistakes. Sometimes those mistakes can be significant. And, have some serious consequences. Driving with distractions, ignoring workplace safety by taking shortcuts, high blood pressure because of stress, emotional outbursts due to frustration, all are not good. None of us need a tragedy this time of year…

Probably the furthest from your mind right now and over the next few weeks will be your insurances. I certainly get that, it’s just not a priority. That is until something goes wrong. Remember Murphy’s law, it’ll go wrong when you least expect it and at the worst time.

However remember that’s why you have insurances in place. To help when things go wrong.

We’re here to help if you need some assurance that your insurances are up to date and give you the cover you need. We’ll be here right up to and through Christmas and available to help wherever we can, including any claims.

Remember, and I’ve said it many times, hope for the best but plan for the worst. If you need a hand with that planning then give us a call, after all it’s what we do.

Finally, from all of us here at PPNZL, have a very merry Christmas and a relaxing and safe holiday, and, we’ll catch you again in the new year…

Cheers Hank

If you’d like to support them their big fundraiser for this year is the Oxford Bird Rescue 2021 Calendar, which is available for $20 plus postage. To order a calendar message the Facebook page or email obr@xtra.co.nz.

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words by Shaz Davis

1

with Kerri Booth

The braided rivers in Canterbury provide a welcome summer playground, but they are also home to a handful of rare and endangered birds.

Several species breed in the open shingle in the riverbeds between late August and early February each year, where they, and their young, are at risk from increased recreational use, including humans, vehicle traffic and dogs.

Birds like the vulnerable Wrybill, the nationally endangered Black-fronted Tern, and the nationally critical Black-billed Gull live a precarious existence with the constant threat of habitat loss from weed growth, pollution, scavenging by pests, changed water flows, as well as human interference and development.

2

3

The nests are well camouflaged in the shingle, with eggs often laid on the rocky beds, and the eggs and young chicks can easily be crushed by a passing 4x4.

But we can all do our part to help keep these and other breeding birds, like the nationally vulnerable Banded Dotterel, safe.

4

During the breeding season (late August to early February): Stick to formed tracks along the rivers and don’t forge a new path, that might be directly over a nest that is extremely difficult to spot.

5

Respect signs or barriers put in place to protect breeding birds.

It is illegal to disturb or kill nationally endangered or nationally critical birds.

Most birds appear agitated and start flying about or dive-bombing you to warn you away, but the most the shy Wrybill will do is scuttle off in an attempt to lure you away from the nest. If you do see these birds give them plenty of space.

Keep your dogs on a lead if you visit the river during the breeding season.

Chicks are particularly vulnerable and could become a tasty snack before you have a chance to call your dog back.

Style

Second hand

Help our threatened local birds

6

7

Who wants to see the trailer of 2021 before they sign up?

Think it could be a wise choice after having lived through 2020. Not many of us at this time last year, would have predicted a year like this.

Like everything, fashion has also taken a short, sharp look at herself since covid.

New, shiny and flash doesn’t cut the mustard quite like it used to. Using what we have and buying from small businesses seems to be much more flavour of the month now. This I have to say is a silver lining from the events of 2020.

I have been running workshops and wardrobe consults like never before. I honestly think its because women (especially women) have had a chance to stop and think of what they actually want to invest in, purely so they can be the best they can be. No more buying to fill a void. Buying more to fill a need (not a void). Becase they have taken the time to do a polkadotcom workshop, they now know their needs and who they are. This allows them to see what and why they love to wear certain outfits/ clothing.

When I first owned my little store, I had a massive wardrobe with so many choices.

Now nearly six years on its shrunk down to a third of what I used to own. This is because as I have learnt more about myself, and what I actually like, and also what looks good on my body just as it is today.

Not for when I was 10kg smaller or for what everyone else is wearing.

It’s an honour to share what I have learnt with you wonderful people. How lucky are we as a community to have opportuntiy to have a local magazine that brings information, inspiration and a little chuckle every now and then. So much is online but there is still something special about holding a printed edition. I have loved sharing my little random thoughts from my wee second hand store in this space.

May this Christmas be an extra special one for you all and I’m very excited for 2021 (even though I haven’t seen the trailer for it!).

Merry Christmas to you all and I encourage you to soak up all those moments that remind you of the goodness in life.

Kerri

Threatened local Birds from top 1. Pied Stilt - Declining 2. Black Stilt - Critically endangered ( 70 left) 3. South Island Pied Oystercatcher - Declining 4. Black billed Gull - Critically endangered 5. White- fronted Tern - Declining 6. Black -fronted tern - Endangered 7. Wrybill - Vunerable 8. Banded Dotterel - Vunerable twenty

8

OPEN Wed-Fri 10am-5pm Sat 10am-1pm

021 059 0984

ASHLEY INDUSTRIAL SERVICES LTD Sawmill & Customised Timber Packaging | Selling Direct to the Public 8 Mill Road, Oxford | Hours: Mon to Thu 8am-5pm - Fri 8am - 4pm - Sat 8am - 12noon

TIMBER PLYWOOD MDF POSTS STAKES & PEGS BINS PALLETS CRATES SAWDUST SHREDDED CHIP TIMBER TREATMENT CONTRACT MILLING

Merry Christmas We wish to thank all our customers for your support over the past year and wish you all a safe & happy holiday.

We are closing for our Christmas break at 12 noon on Wednesday 23rd December, and re-open on Monday 11th January 2021.

03 312 3341

email admin@ais.co.nz website www.ashleyindustrial.co.nz

Mayoral Update with

Dan Gordon

Twelve months have passed since I was elected Mayor and looking back on this milestone I can say it has been very enjoyable and gone by quickly.

Every day I consider myself fortunate to serve as Mayor and work with a team of Councillors committed to you and the Waimakariri District.

People are very important to me and at the centre of everything we do as a Council, and I have made it a priority to meet with anyone who has a concern or an issue they need addressing. I welcome contact from anyone who needs assistance or has an issue that they may want to discuss. Email me at mayor@wmk.govt.nz or phone 021906437. I’m here to help.

It has been a busy year, divided in two by Covid. The pandemic has had a significant impact globally, nationally and locally on households and we responded quickly and worked hard with staff to reduce this year’s rates increase to 1.5% - down from the 4% initially proposed.

In March next year we will be in touch to get your feedback on two significant documents which will help shape Waimakariri for the decade to come.

We are currently working on the Long Term Plan (10-year budget) which will recognise that things have changed with Covid, and that we are living in a growing District. We need to keep pace with growth and not fall behind with essential infrastructure investment, while maintaining the levels of service in our parks, roads, facilities etc that we have all come to enjoy and expect.

Council is also finalising our District Plan which is the rule book for

building and ongoing development in the District and sets out and enables areas for growth and development.

Earlier this month and on behalf of the community we hosted the Council’s annual Community Service Awards. Along with the Deputy Mayor, I found it very interesting to interview each of the selected nominees and in writing their citations to learn how much voluntary work is done in our community by very humble people who do not seek recognition.

This year I introduced a new ‘Mayors Award’ to recognise those who have given exceptional service to our District. It is the least we can do on behalf of our community to say thanks to people who go the extra mile to give service to our community.

I very much enjoy getting out and around our community and summer is the perfect season for this. If you’re at an event and see me about, come and say “Hi”.

We are fortunate to have so many excellent events to choose from over the summer months. Thanks to all community organisations and event organisers for providing the various events for our community.

I always look forward to the Christmas season and getting around our community visiting all the wonderful events.

As expected there are a number of end of year functions, Christmas parades and festivities that I encourage you to experience.

We all know it has been an extraordinary year – one unlike any other any of us would ever have experienced. Despite this, or perhaps because of it, it is important that we all make time to reflect on what Christmas is about in our own individual way.

For me, Christmas is about spending time with my family and enjoying seeing so many people in the community connect and share joy, but I especially enjoy Christmas carols.

Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and happy New Year.

Dan Gordon twenty one

Keeping Healthy with Tracie Miller

Reducing Christmas Stress “It’s the most wonderful time of the year”, but also a time when stress levels soar. We have put together some top tips to stop stress in its tracks and make the season of goodwill more enjoyable.

Karadean News Since moving to Alert Level 1, we have been super busy here at Karadean.

It has been really nice to be able to take our residents out and about again!

We had visit to Joanne and Robert Judson’s beautiful garden. It was a lovely warm day, so we had a nice afternoon tea under the shade of the trees.

We held an Indian Cultural Day, where staff and residents dressed up. Our great cook made a traditional Indian lunch, which was enjoyed by everyone.

We also had a Country and Western Day, where we had a fun afternoon of singing and dancing. Residents and staff dressed up and we even had a couple of Dolly Partons singing her “9-5” song!

At Alert Level 1 we are welcoming visitors, but please remember to sign the contact tracing form or scan the app on your phone. Take care and stay safe.

1. Limit Spending Money issues are one of the leading causes of stress, so SET A BUDGET and be realistic so that you do not overspend.

AVOID TEMPTATION by limiting the time spent in malls and shop local!. KEEP IN MIND WHAT IS IMPORTANT, relationships with friends and family are more important than material objects.

2. Manage Expectations Be realistic. No event ever runs smoothly, and minor mishaps can create fond memories that you can reflect on in years to come. Remind children that Christmas is about being together. Not a list of presents to tick off.

3. Avoid Overindulging Excessive stress raises appetite and cravings for sugary and fatty foods, and chronic drinking can further exacerbate stress, by raising levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

4. Go for a walk Regular exercise can help to decrease tension and boost and stabilise mood.

5.Have some fun!

Laughter lightens your mood, stimulates your heart, lungs, and muscles, and releases feel-good endorphins.

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Lifetime membership award for work with Keep Oxford Beautiful words by Beka Hunt - photo supplied

In Spring, Oxford is a kaleidoscope of colour, as the daffodils flower, and the gardens outside the Police Station are in full bloom.

Yet many members of the community may not be aware of the hardworking hands that planted them.

Those hard workers have operated so stealthily that the flowers seem to have appeared overnight.

These daffodils, the roadside flower bed outside the police station and even our coveted one-man jail is cared for by the Keep Oxford Beautiful Committee.

A branch of the Keep New Zealand Beautiful initiative, the Committee consists of 8 volunteers that essentially keep Oxford… beautiful.

Recently, the latest Chairperson Cheryl Norrish received an award from the Christchurch branch 2020 awards. She has been a dedicated member for 24 years; Oxfords daffodil vigilante if you like.

Cheryl was presented with the Lifetime Membership award, a tribute to the years of hard work she has sunk into keeping our township presentable and appealing.

She first joined Keep Oxford Beautiful for a working bee that was advertised in the Oxford Bulletin. The advertisement was the hook, but the line and sinker came later, when she was personally picked up and escorted to the working bee.

When Cheryl expressed her interest, she was told to organise her own trowel, gloves and bucket.

Then she was sent a car that collected her up and whisked her away to the venue. After that free ride, she was invested for the next 20 plus years.

The award presentation was a lovely night out for Cheryl, meeting the Christchurch mayor and applauding other award recipients.

She certainly deserves our recognition for the amount of time given to our community. Her hard work runs in the family as her own

Ploughing, Vaderstad Topdown, Vaderstad Carrier e

daughter is involved with the Christchurch branch. She was present and ready to shake Cheryl’s hand.

The Keep Oxford Beautiful group receives funding from the Waimakariri Council and although it may rely on working bees to bring in helpers for the bigger jobs, it is the core group that brings the bulk of the beauty.

They are always on the lookout for new members and hold meetings once a month. If you are interested, you can contact Cheryl herself at cheryl@oxford.school.nz.

You might find yourself in the position for a free ride and a lifetime of commitment.

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Phone 027 2215264 Allan (Harry)

JOHN DEERE 750A DIRECT DRILL Vaderstad Carrier & Bio drill

Email allan@chapmanag.co.nz Facebook, Chapman Agriculture twenty three

Support and enjoy your local Market

Every Sunday 9am - 12pm

Main Street, Oxford

EFT Ava POS ilabl e

FOOD ~ FUN Christmas &

AMBIENCE Market Gala

December 20th You’ll Find it all at the Oxford Farmers Market

Follow us on Facebook to keep up to date with upcoming events Email: info@oxfordfarmersmarket.co.nz

www.oxfordfarmersmarket.co.nz

Maarten Trees Ltd Need advice on your trees??

We do:

Pruning Thinning Hedge Trimming Stump Grinding Crown lifting and reductions Chipping Tree removals

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Decking & Pergolas Landscaping Sleepers Hardwood Mantles Large Beams Milling to Order Re-sawing of Beams Firewood Supplies

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twenty four

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EMERGENCY SERVICES Fire Emergency report

Police report

with Oxford Chief Fire Officer

with Oxford Constable

Trevor Ealam

Mitch Alatalo Its great to see the sun out and people enjoying what this area has to offer.

From a road safety perspective, there have been a lot of foggy mornings and evenings with the weather still being changeable.

Please drive to the conditions and be sure to watch your following distances. I have also been approached by concerned driving contractors, asking me to warn motorists of the danger of passing slow vehicles/tractors, when there is little or no visibility ahead.

Burglaries are starting to increase in the area again so please be mindful about your security about the home and when you are out and about in your vehicle. Keep an eye out for any suspicious activity in our area. If you do witness something, please let Police know.

It is great to see the message getting out there through various social media outlets.

Can we also please report it through official channels as well.

Every little bit of information helps. It really does.

If it’s happening now dial, “111” and if it’s already happened and there is no danger to life or property dial “105”.

Before we know it, the holidays will be upon us.

Hope everyone has a great holiday and above all enjoy yourself.

Thank you for your time.

Until next month, Be safe, Feel safe.

October was another busy month for the Brigade with ten calls.

Two calls were to assist the Cust Brigade at a shed fire and a large vegetation fire. In our area we attended three structure fires. One was a minor fire in a bathroom, a suspicious fire in a shed at the A & P Show grounds and a house fire that caused substantial damage. There were two vegetation fires one of which got away on the owners in the nor-west wind, two car fires ( one totally destroyed ) and one to assist St John. This brings our total calls for the year to seventy six.

Recently the Brigade was supplied with some new equipment at the cost of about $20,000 to Fire and Emergency New Zealand, This equipment is for gaining entry to patients involved in motor vehicle accidents faster which will give the medical people faster access to the patients. What makes it faster is it takes less time to set up. The equipment is totally battery powered, no motors, no hydraulic lines, no generators or cords for the lighting. We have also been told that the brigade will receive a new tanker in the near future.

This month’s message is: Alcohol is involved in a large number of fatal house fires. So if you are planning on having a few, don’t get the frypan out. Get takeaways or use the microwave instead.

Oxford

Community Trust Closing dates 22nd December - 11th January Holiday programme from 11 - 18 December & 26 -29 January - call 312 3006 for more information or to book.

Shoppers Bus - next trip to Northlands Mall Tuesday 15th December - bookings essential pop into the Trust to put your name down or call 312 3006.

We have a Christmas tree set up at the Trust - if you would like to donate a gi , please drop in an unwrapped, new gi and these will be given to families in our community. ank you to: Oxford Lions for sponsoring the U-Drive Programme Oxford Cra market for their financial assistance of our medical transport OPAC for supporting our Christmas Wonderland twenty five

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Bowen Therapy

A Gentle therapy for every body and any age.

Contact Johanna Lettink, registered practitioner for 20 years Ph. 312 1316 or 021 269 0371 www.bowtech.com

• General/Family Dentistry • Facial Pain • Periodontal Therapy • Minor Oral Surgery • Oral Medicine Specialist • Oral Cancer Detection • Clinicians all New Zealand trained • Super Gold and Community Services Card Discounts Open Monday to Friday 8.30 to 5.30 www.pagdental.com

Chimney Sweep

Winters Coming!!

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Leather & Fashion Handbags

and wallets, possum/merino NZ gifts, jewellery, art and homewares.

Route 72 Cafe Bar Emporium, Cust.

Ph: 312 5595.

PAG Silverstream Dental 4/42 Silverstream Boulevard Silverstream 03 925 8003 pagsilverstreamdental@gmail.com

Manuka Honey

Online Will $69

and other New Zealand-made skincare ranges for men and women. Homeopathic remedies for the whole family. Also Kings Seeds. Route 72 Cafe Bar Emporium, Cust. Ph: 312 5595.

Email: route72@extra.co.nz

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‘Just do it!’

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1734627

Yoga w Qigong w Tai Chi and

Fitness weekly classes in Oxford Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays

December Special: Get fit for Summer!

Try any class for $7 or 3 different classes for $16 Feel relaxed w Build strength w Improve flexibility T&C apply call/text Gabrielle 027 225 1646

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STATIONHOUSE CAFE “Dining with a view” Lunch, brunch, morning or afternoon tea

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03 312 4731 twenty six

027 311 1140

email -info@oxfordobserver.co.nz

0800 627 378 37

For Beautifully Handcrafted Books Tessa Warburton BOOKBINDER • Restoration • Repair • Private Tuition

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Phone 027 630 2230 Real milk. For a naturally better life. www.facebook.com/CavanFarmFreshMilk

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Paul Saunders

Lawnmowing and Garden Maintenance • • • • • • • • •

Owner/Operator Residential and Commercial Lawn & Edges ( push mow catch or mulch ) Ride on Sections upto 2 acres Weedeating Spraying Pruning and trimming Residential Hedges Tree Planting and more

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Need a Pre-school ?

Oxford Early Learning Centre Monday to Friday 8.30am - 3.30pm

✔ Nursery for 6 months onwards ✔ Interactive area for 2-3 year olds ✔ School readiness classroom for 4-6 year olds ✔ Great teacher/child ratios with passionate staff ✔ Community focused team supporting our families/whanau for over 30 years

166 High Street | Ph: 03 312 4757 (Behind Baptist Church)

oxfordearlylearning@xtra.co.nz

Oxford Butchery

Farm Fresh Flavour Fresh to your Plate

Retail Quality Meat & Smallgoods Award Winning Old Fashioned Dry-cured Bacon & Ham. From Paddock to Freezer - we can homekill & process your stock ready for the freezer.

Bookings essential

Oxford Butchery Ltd 4th Generation Family Butchers

44 Main Street - Oxford

Ph 03 312 4205 | A/H : Ph Shane 03 312 4709 MPI APPROVED

Anglican Parish of Oxford - Cust

CHRISTMAS SERVICES 20th December 9.30am

St Andrews, Blue service (for the bereaved)

ALL WELCOME | Call Josie 022 089 8331

Held every 2nd Monday at 7.30pm Oxford Church Centre

UNION PARISH

(friendly, experienced service in the comfort of your own home.)

Sharing Christ in our Fellowship and Community

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UNION (METHODIST & PRESBYTERIAN) PARISH SERVICES FOR DECEMBER 2020

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24th December Christmas Eve St Andrew's Oxford 11pm Candles, Carols and Communion

- $690* including GST & High Court fee Kiwilaw – www.kiwilaw.co.nz

25th December Christmas Day

021 701 838 / 03 312 1508 Oxford Local - Nationwide Service

Holidays

‘Just because a lawyer holds the will, it doesn’t mean they hold the purse strings.

Check their fees first.’

Small Prayer & Reflection Groups

OXFORD DISTRICT

Mobile service spray tans

Cheryl Simes

REGULAR SUNDAY MASS: 8.30am EVENING MASS Every 1st & 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7pm

Mobile Tanning

Probate application

Sacred Heart Church, Oxford

ENQUIRIES: Waimakariri Parish Ph: 03 313 6285

St Andrew's Oxford All age interactive Christmas Nativity (Anyone can dress as angels or shepherds)

22nd December 7.00pm

Bronze Beauty

St Peter Chanel Catholic Parish

St James-on-the-Cust 9am

27th December through January 2020 9.30am St Andrew's Oxford (Cust 24th Jan 11am)

THE DECEMBER 27TH SERVICE, advertised in Church Newsletter as at Cust, WILL NOW BE AT OXFORD.

DECEMBER 6TH - Communion Service 13TH – Service

20TH – Service Salvation Army Service at 6.00pm.

25TH - CHRISTMAS SERVICE 27TH – Service

ALL WELCOME UNION PARISH MINISTER: REV. LAURENCE ENNOR PH: 03 357 4475 (Home) or 027 233 4687 (Mob) PARISH CLERK: MRS ANNE CROFT Ph: 03 312 5513 twenty seven

Business Directory * Medical Grade Facials * Peels & Skin Treatments * Waxing * Eyelash and Brows

Beauty House of

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19 Goodwood Close Rangiora

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phone

03 310 6139 021 024 19237

Level 1, 210 High Street, Rangiora

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by Appointment only

ODWOO O

Visit our collaborative co-working office. Casual, permanent desks and meeting room for hire. Book online!

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LIVING OFF THE LAND Looking for that special present...

'Plants for Christmas' as gi s and our very own 2021 Calendar beautifully photographed by Izzy Malone Photography.

ONE STOP SELF SUFFICIENT SHOP...

WE CAN HELP YOU....YOU CAN DO IT.

Fruit Trees, Berry Plants, Currant Bushes, Vege & Herb Plants ready for planting now.

A comprehensive range of Western Milling Stock Feeds, Hekeao Hemp Horse Feeds and Future Feeds Chaff.

Re-homed Laying Hens, point of lay Pullets and eggs for sale.

OPEN 9.am - 5.30pm Monday - Saturday

3134 Old West Coast Road (Look for the White Rooster)

www.nichesharedspace.co.nz

the Plastic Welding

SPECIALISTS

Automotive Plastic repairs Fibreglass repairs Car Bumpers - Headlights Interior Trims & Modifications Motorbike Fairing - Kids Toys Campervans Anything Plastic

021 1805 103 | james@ncpw.nz

Come and talk to the real experts

• Sales, servicing and repair of all major brands of computers • • Networking, etc. for home, farm and business • • Drop into our workshop or call us for a home/site visit • We won’t baffle you with science, just plain simple honest advice 216 High Street, Rangiora

Monday-Friday 9am-5.30pm, Sat 10am-2pm

Email: rangiora@ipc.co.nz

Lorinda Harrington

Independant Registered Financial Advisor

M 027 242 3211 E Lorinda@thebroker.co.nz THEBROKER.co.nz

Free Service - Specialising in 1st Home buyers

Follow us for the latest news & info

Ph: 03 313 4567

www.ipc.co.nz

High Country Canvas Specialists in Canvas Manufacturing

New Work & Repairs Welcome.

Don’t Pack & Store It All Away Get your Repairs Done Now & avoid the Spring Rush!

Darrin Lord 03 312 5025 or 027 238 1624

For Needs Forall allyour yourElectrical Electrical Wiring Needs New NewHousing Housing&&Alterations Alterations Sheds, Sheds,Barns Barns&&Farm Farm Maintenance Maintenance Lights, Lights,Plugs Plugs&& Spas Spas Phones Phones 027243 2436696 6696 027 FreeQuotes Quotes Free 3124990 4990 CompetitiveRates Rates Competitive 312 twenty eight

F O R A L L YO U R L I Q U I D WA S T E R E M O VA L REQUIREMENTS

Ph: 03 312 4476 Mob: 027 4969 256 Septic Tanks, Grease Traps, Dairy Sumps, Blocked Drains Maintenance Reports Email: speechly@xtra.co.nz

Business Directory

ELMWOoD AG

DRY CLEAN, DRY OF CLEAN, SUPPLIER OF SUPPLIER WIDE CANTERBURY WIDE FIREWOOD CANTERBURY FIREWOOD

• ROUND BALING •

Old man pine & hotmix available

PREMIUM SERVICE FREE DELIVERY Call Rini on 027 451 7300 Looking for large diameter trees any specimens considered Qualified tree arborists for felling, removal and cleanup

• CULTIVATION •

(Mowing through to Cartage)

(Full Culitvation Service)

Balage 1m - 1.5m Hay 1m - 1.6m

6m Roller Drill & 6m Direct Drill

Rut Buster for HIRE PHONE: Bill 027 485 8012 ~ EMAIL: oxfarm@hotmail.co.nz

WE OFFER:

Call me today to discuss all your hedge & tree trimming needs...

Nick McDonald Ph: 027 206 1149 or 3125 313

• Shelterbelt & Hedge Tree Trimming • Large Farms, Orchards, & Lifestyle Blocks • Locally Owned & Operated • Servicing North Canterbury • Full Insurance Cover • Comprehensive Health & Safety Systems • Power Line Clearance Operator

One stop shop for your home and property maintenance.

Al - Mows starts giving you your life back.

Don’t know where to start or how to do it?

Gardens & Lawns doing their own thing - not your thing?

Property and / or House Maintenance falling behind?

No time for life on a lifestyle block?

NEED GLASS?

We can help! Visit our website or give us a call!  Retrofit Double Glazing

Frameless Showers Repairs & More

Pet doors Splashbacks Mirrors

CALL IN THE EXPERT No job too big or small - Regular maintenance or one off work.

Call Al Today!

0212 499 495 |

ajdavies62@gmail.com

Locally owned and operated 03 318 3003 | admin@hunterglass.co.nz | www.hunterglass.co.nz

Tax Returns Payroll GST Returns Annual Accounts Rental Returns

Jeanette Graves Sharon Stewart

021 853 769 027 241 6345

www.smallbusinesssolutions.co.nz info@smallbusinesssolutions.co.nz twenty nine

Business Directory

FOR ALL BOOKINGS AND ENQUIRIES TXT OR PHONE JASON 027 55 777 25

hedgetechtrimming@gmail.com

f

FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING NEEDS

Maintenance Plumbing • New Housing • Bathroom Alterations Logfires • Hot Water Cylinders • Spouting & Flashings Pump Replacement & Repair

Fast, Friendly Service, All Work Guaranteed

PROVIDING INTEGRATED VETERINARY SERVICES

Integrated Functional Veterinary Diagnostics and Medicine TCVM (Acupuncture, Herbs, Food Therapy/Nutrition) ABM (Manual hands on therapy, rehabilitative programmes for horses) Reiki

Bach Flower Remedies and Homeopathy

Lillian Bonner ~ DVM CVA ABMgrad.dip. RMT 021 951 059

LillianBonnerDVM@gmail.com

Lillian Bonner DVM Balanced Beings Integrated & Functional Veterinary Medicine

OXFORD

SHUTTLE SERVICE

& AIRPORT TRANSFERS

Phone: 312 1360

Mob:021 254 5261 E m a i l : r. j . e d w a r d s @ x t r a . c o . n z

Let us take the stress out of your travel We offer: • airport transfers - early morning/late evening 24/7 • door to door pick up & drop off service • seating for up to 7 passengers • the cheapest rates in North Canterbury

We are: • locally owned & operated • an ACC Accredited Provider • NZ Transport Agency Certified

Aaron McCartney • Free Ph: 0508 44EVER • Ph: 03 310 2137 A/H: 027 3669 091 • Email: plumber_27@yahoo.co.nz

www.4everplumbing.co.nz

RON EALAM BUILDER

for all your Building requirements New Homes Additions & Alterations Farm Buildings Concrete Laying Painting & Paper hanging

Experienced Builder

027 242 4907

Brian Norton

Craftsman Builder - Over 25 Years Experience Ph 021 880037 or 03 312 4911 AH Architectural & Residential Builds - Farm Buildings - Own Build at 184 High Street

Time + Travel + Mileage + Convenience = Best Rates in North Canterbury

“cheaper than taking your own car”

Gavin Newick

Shelley’s Glass and Glazing Got a Broken Glass window ?

Insurance work . Pet Doors . Mirrors . Retro fits . Fire Glass Single / Double Glazing . Glass Showers

Call your local Glazier Mark

03 312 3253 or 027 242 6368

35 years in the Glass Industry Operating in Oxford, Darfield, Rolleston, West Melton & surrounding areas thirty

GN Plumbing and Drainage Ltd Plumbing:

Sewer & Stormwater:

• New Builds • Maintenance • Alterations • Dripping Taps • Hot Water Cylinder Replacements

• New Installations • Repairs • Alterations • Septic Tanks • Blocked Drains • Water Blasting

. Insurance Repairs .

CRAFTSMAN PLUMBER & DRAINLAYER

CALL TODAY...

After Hours:

03 312 1785

Business Directory We Specialise in superior fencing craftmanship which adds long term value to your property investment.

Fencing in the greater Canterbury area.

• • • • • • • • •

FREE QUOTES

Small & Large scale Fencing Sheep & Deer Fencing Sheep, Deer & Cattle Yards Dairy Conversions Horse Fencing Corrals, Yards & Arenas Post Driving Post & Rail Fences Entranceways

• • • • • • • •

Wooden Gates Lifestyle Blocks Sub - Divisions Boundary Fences Vineyards Chicken Runs Sheds Animal Runs

NEED A PLUMBER Call us now for fast friendly service Get your problems sorted out quick smart - on time!!

Local family Plumbing Business

Steve is available to help with your

Phone for a

Summerfield Fencing Ltd

quote now

Planning and Design

FREE

T 03 312 1280 | M 021 898 380 E eliteplumbingchch@gmail.com

PHONE: 03 312 4747 MOBILE : 027 312 4747

www.summerfieldfencing.co.nz summerfieldfencing@xtra.co.nz

Rural - Dairy New Housing Heating & Ventilation Service & Maintenance Commercial Refrigeration Solar Hotwater and PV

Serving the North Canterbury Area

“Totally Dependable”

Phone: 0800 63 63 00

4 Trash

Large 240 litre wheelie bins Multiple Collection options Weekly - Fortnightly - 4 weekly 6 weekly - 8 weekly - Casual

2016 LTD

Rubbish Collection Services General household rubbish collection servicing Oxford ,Rangiora, Kaiapoi and surrounding rural areas We are a local business who appreciate local support so we can sponsor local clubs & organisations

phone or email for a quote

Graham & Kim

T : 03 312 4788 E : 4trash@xtra.co.nz

www.4trash.co.nz

thirty one

ti

PROVIDING INNOVATIVE AND CUSTOMER FOCUSED

AGRICULTURAL SERVICES CULTIVATION Full cultivation service including...

Reversible ploughing Primary ripper disc cultivation Speed disc cultivation with levelling Harrow and rolling Sub soiling

DRILLING Systems cultivation drill Taege direct drill, with fert & roller Fodder beet precison seeder with fert Maize precison seeder with fert

BALING - HAY, STRAW & BALEAGE Mower conditioning Raking / swathing Round baling including combi wrapper Medium square baling 4x3 square baling Quadrant square baling Quadrant tube wrapped Conventional baling Hay and straw baling Individual wrapping Tube wrapping Carting bales to wrapper Innoculant available

BULK SILAGE Mower conditioning Raking / swathing Chopping grass Chopping cereal with direct cut Chopping maize Trucks 8 wheelers with trailers Stacking Cover options supplied Certified weighbridge Innoculant available

OTHER SERVICES Rutbusting Muck spreading Postdriving / fencing Digger and maintenance work Feed trading Carting - bulk and flatdeck

AT OXFORD AG WE GO THE EXTRA MILE TO DO THE JOB ONCE. FOR ANY ENQUIRIES CONTACT BALING - CULTIVATION MANAGER DAN BROOKER ACCOUNT MANAGER

027 756 3743 DAVE KNOWLES 021 275 2432

SILAGE MANAGER

ADAM GREEN

TRANSPORT MANAGER AARON ROSS

YARD 106 HAREWOOD ROAD OXFORD

027 374 6357 021 766 384