December Observer 2021

the

Obser ver

DECEMBER 2021

d ec emb er & HAPPY NEW YEAR

Jessica

“Thank you to all my loyal clients for your on going support over the last year. I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”

Jessica Murphy 03 313 6158 | 027 948 3000 jessica.murphy@harcourts.co.nz 15 Good Street, Rangiora

Four Seasons Realty 2017 Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Four Seasons Realty

2021

And just like that – it’s our Christmas issue!

What a year again.

We had high hopes for 2021 to be a year of getting back to normal after a worldwide pandemic, but unfortunately that was not to be. I think we are all more realistic now and realise that this is not something that will just be going away any time soon.

We are lucky to live in a District that has lots of support for people. While we are mostly based in Oxford, we also work from Niche Shared Space in Rangiora and are working with them and the other residents to collect books and gifts for children this Christmas. The gifts will be distributed by the Oxford Community Trust. If you would like to contribute to this, check out the details below.

This month we have your Christmas dessert and drinks sorted. Louize and Sean Juniper from Juniper Jinn have created some beautiful recipes for us. We were able to sample them at the cover shoot, and have to say they are the perfect summer Christmas recipes.

Thank you to you all for your support over the last year. We have loved telling our local stories, and helping businesses to get their messages out.

Thank you also to our fantastic team, Suzanne, Georgia, Tammy, Candice, Amy & Beka.

We are lucky to work with all of you, and appreciate all of your skills and creativity.

We hope you all have a wonderful Christmas, with time to relax and spend with loved ones. We look forward to spending another year with you all!

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

T H E JA N UA RY I S S U E Advertising Deadline | December 20th

Niche Shared Space Christmas for Kids.

The Residents of Niche Shared Space have linked up this year with Oxford Community Trust to help spread Christmas Joy. We are collecting new books and toys to make Christmas a bit brighter for some families in the District. If you would like to contribute – please drop a new present (if it is wrapped, please state who the gift would be suitable for) into Niche Shared Space Level 1, 210 High Street, Rangiora by 3pm 16/12/21.

Thank you for your support!

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tmas s i r h C y Merr at m a e t e from th air Lounge vıde H i D n i a M

maindividehairlounge

H A I R S A LO N FO R M E N & WO M E N

LET US HELP YOU WITH YOUR

GIFT VOUCHER

CHRISTMAS

SHOPPING WITH A

GIFT VOUCHER

MAIN DIVIDE HAIR LOUNGE

OR CHECK OUT OUR AMAZING

RANGE OF PRODUCTS ONLINE

W W W. M A I N D I V I D E H A I R L O U N G E . C O . N Z

53A MAIN STREET OXFORD

03-312 3311

P.Y.O. TREES: Come and choose your own special tree this Christmas, at your local Tree Farm. 1275 Tram Rd. Open December Weekends - 6pm. th November - rd9am December.

Weekdays am 3pm -- 5pm. am- pm pm Weekdays am - pm Weekends 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.

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

CH-8533974AA

Located inside the playing field.

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 three

summer fashion your way !

It happened. December turned up again. Fancy that!

Every year I’m always so surprised and think that it comes quicker and quicker, but its still the same amount of days and months in between.

I had a whole aritcle written about the trends for Summer 2021, but I was not feeling it, or inspired at all.

That information is so easy to come by and you can ask google any time to update you on the latest trend. I figured that I don’t need to take up your precious reading time to tell you someting that you can easily find and is only hot news for 5 seconds anyway.

When you think about Summer, do you have that inner critic that starts with ‘I should have started that diet, exercise plan earlier’. The critic assessment begins as we work our way through the list of what needs to be worked on. Tummy, legs, bottom, bust, arms.

There are always items on the list of what we think needs to be improved. Once you are in the great mindset of hacking yourself to pieces you then realise that you need to go swimsuit shopping. Brilliant! This is going to end well isn’t it? I know sarcasm is the lowest form of wit, but it does have a way of showing up the truth. Since this way never ends well, let’s make a new inner critic.

Start with being realistic. Not mean! But realistic. What do you need from your swimsuit?

To make you look like you came out with a cookie cutter perfect body doesn’t come under the catergory of realistic. Sorry but it doesn’t. Let’s think about what you need from it. Sitting on the lounger, reading your book, sipping your cocktail will allow for a different bathing suit than playing that game of cricket on the beach.

Now that you have worked out what you need from your swimsuit, work out your assets. These babies are what you are going to showcase.

So with this information up your sleeve you can now start to shop. Start looking with an open mind. Don’t feel like you have to stick to what is on trend. String bikinis may be what’s in the shop front window but a fun sports bra and some sports shorts may be what makes you feel much more confident and plays up to your assets. Just cos it doesn’t hang in the swimsuit section doesn’t mean that it’s not the perfect swimsuit for you. My last point is to have fun. Enjoy the summer.

The last two years have been filled with so much unpredictable, challenging situations for so many people. It has highlighted how much we need each other and fun in our lives. This summer do not let our inner critic rob us of wearing that swimsuit, going for that swim, playing that game of beach cricket, soaking up the sun.

May this season be filled with laughing till your cheeks hurt and you feel like you will wet your pants.

Always the best kind of laughter.

Merry Christmas from...

www.polkadotcom.co.nz 021 059 0984

53 Main Street, Oxford North Canterbury, New Zealand sara@emmasatoxford.com www.emmasatoxford.com 03 312 3432

EMMAS at

OXFORD

C H R I STM A S HOURS

Thursday 16th - 10am to 7pm Friday 17th - Tuesday 21st - 10am - 5pm Wednesday 22nd - 10am to 7pm Thursday 23rd - 10am to 7pm Friday 24th - 9am to 3pm Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Dec 27th - CLOSED 28th December onwards - normal hours 10am - 5pm 7 days

Books make the best gifts YOU'RE NOT JUST GIVING A BOOK; YOU'RE GIVING THE GIFT OF KNOWLEDGE, GROWTH, INSIGHT, ESCAPE OR ENTERTAINMENT. Bring us a few clues about the recipient and we will happily make some recommendations.

We'll be here for all your Christmas shopping; and also to keep you stocked on holiday reading.

Thanks to all our customers for the support in 2021; and we look forward to plenty more reading in 2022.

Wishing everyone a happy and safe festive season.

Sara

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five

THE FEEDSHACK RANGIORA

pet supplies

4 GOOD STREET PH | 03 313 3016

XMAS DEALS ON UNTIL DECEMBER 18TH

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new RANGE of LICK MATS instore SHOP ONLINE OR CLICK & COLLECT

FREE DELIVERY FOR ONLINE ORDERS OVER $49 (Rural rates may apply at checkout) six

BONE 1.8kg H S I W od cat fours o 9 3 flavALE $24.9

could your p et b e due a d etox ?

by Tracy Ashley

Many of the toxins that can affect our own and our pets' health are hidden, and we may be unknowingly contributing to the load of toxins our pets have in their bodies.

Pets are generally much smaller than we are, with smaller organs of elimination and have to work much harder than ours do to eliminate toxin buildup.

Since we control our pets' environment, they rely on us 100% to reduce toxins they encounter. They can't talk to us to let us know when something in their food or their environment is making them feel sick or irritating their sinuses or lungs.

So what can you do to minimize the toxins in your pets' lives and help them eliminate the toxic load they have in their bodies?

Get Rid of the Nasties in their Food.

Diet is often the biggest contributor to ill health in any animal, including ourselves. The best thing that you can do is get them off the highly processed junk food and on to a fully nutrient dense health food diet, free from artificial colours, preservatives, shelf stabilisers & chemically sprayed grains. The most common preservatives used in pet foods are BHA, BHT and ethoxyquin. Choose natural food and treats, like those we offer at The Feedshack. We offer only the best highly digestible, additive-free foods and treats.

Going Eco-friendly in household and Outdoor cleaners.

Our skin is an organ and absorbs heaps, including all the nasty chemicals in that shampoo. Swap out their chemical shampoos for natural & chemical- free. This includes those synthetic based hypo- allergenic shampoos. Your pet is going to do much better on a natural one that is more suited to their skins PH. That laundry detergent that you washed the pet bed in could have residue. Check you are using eco-friendly or natural detergents for sensitive skins.

Our pets pick up all sorts on their fur/hair and lick it off. With a warm, water dampened cloth frequently wipe their coat and paws. Outdoor garden sprays, fertilisers & cleaners can cause havoc with your pets health, so minimise and replace with natural options when possible. Mother Nature will love you for it too!

Check their Toys for Toxic Materials Check out that the dog toy that they’ve been enjoying is made from non-toxic material and the colourings are only vegetable dyes. The mouth absorbs more than the skin and that latex toy could be causing harm.

Give your Pet Filtered Water While the water that flows through your household pipes may be technically "fit to drink," it may contain toxic chemicals like fluoride and chlorine, and other suspicious particulates to damage your pet's health. Water filtration units are readily available and help to protect your pets liver and kidneys.

Swap out the Chemical Toothpaste Regular brushing of your pets’ teeth has become common practise both to counteract damage done to teeth by poor diet but also as a preventative. Most of the dog toothpastes contain chemicals.

Often simply changing to a quality low starch alternative diet takes care of this problem, and many of the best foods now contain natural herbs that aid in dental health. There are other natural tooth care products that you can use too, such as our Tagiwig Homeopathic Mouth Tonic.

Support your Pets’ Liver & Kidneys with Herbs & Homeopathy Your pet's liver does the bulk share of elimination of toxins. Antioxidants can assist the liver in this process, and many of the pet foods that we stock instore contain these. Older pets and those taking medications may benefit from regular use of liver support products. We stock an effective Homeopathic Liver Support Detox that also assists the Immune system and is easy to use.

The simplest thing you can do to support the kidneys of a healthy cat or dog is to ensure that they are drinking an ample amount of filtered water every day. Toxins excreted through the kidneys become highly concentrated in chronically dehydrated pets, and can damage the tiny structures in the kidneys' filtration system. Mineral particles can form when urine is highly concentrated, resulting in the formation of crystals or stones that can cause blockages and/or irritation to urinary tract structures.

If your pet doesn't much drink water, consider a pet fountain and provide more liquids with meals by adding broth or water and healthy wet foods to provide extra moisture. For pets with urinary tract issues, consider homeopathic remedies for urinary tract and/or kidney support.

Keep Convention Medicines In check Toxic compounds are plentiful in conventional flea and tick products and many conventional drugs, including vaccines.

While chemical treatments and conventional medications may be needed, it pays to be mindful of the frequency of dosing, and to look for natural alternatives when they are appropriate for your pet. We offer natural flea and tick control products, as well as natural remedies for common pet health conditions that may offer safer alternatives. We also suggest that you carefully research the misguided notion that every pet requires annual boosters for vaccines.

Keep in mind that as the body is eliminating toxins, it is not unusual for there to be a brief "healing crisis," in which a cat or dog may develop symptoms like a runny nose or changes in bowel function and sometimes skin. This is usually a sign that the body is expelling the toxins and such symptoms should subside in a few days. Stop any remedy if symptoms develop that concern you, and consult with a holistic veterinarian for appropriate guidance.

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the oxford Unsure what to get that special someone this Christmas? Or perhaps a friend Or maybe you’ve left your Christmas shopping to the last minute and are in a state of panic.

EMMA’S AT OXFORD The store is bursting with new stock, so come and see us to get your Christmas shopping done locally. We’re also here to help with all your summer holiday reading.

PHARMACY

Urbane Mess Beard & Hair Trimmer + Shave Cream Is your man’s beard out of control?

Does his hair need a trim?

Or perhaps it’s time to shave that beard off all together!

Then this duo is the perfect gift for him.

Trimmer $26.99 Shave Cream $13.99

Miki Make Your Own Lip gloss For those makeup artists out there, or those who like to get crafty and creative, this make your own lip gloss kit is the perfect gift!

Bubble Up Pink Fruits Body Collection It’s time to treat that special lady in your life with some pampering, and trust me when I say this collection will have her in a state of bliss in no time.

Price: $38.50

Price: $24.99

Price: $44.00

Soldier Super Mini Stunt Car This mini stunt car will have your kids entertained for hours watching it perform tricks by spinning, jumping and even flipping!

THEAS NEW & PRE- LOVED BOUTIQUE

Living Light candles,

Soaps and diffusers in many flavours

Chunky Terracota vase.

Rock Vases in 3 sizes.

CHRISTMAS TREATS IN STORE NOW !!!!

Gift Baskets, Christmas Tree Decorations, Delicious Christmas Cakes, Dessert Options......

Keep an eye on our facebook page for our new catering platters and BBQ packs - all you need for summer....

CHRISTMAS TRADING HOURS CLOSED 24th, 25th, 26th & 27th December.

OPEN 28th - 31st December.

CLOSED 1st & 2nd January.

. s a m st i r h C Merry

We would like to thank all of our amazing customers for their support and would like to wish you all a very Merry Xmas and Happy New Year.

OR

e. sales@sheffieldpieshop.co.nz eight

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

Christmas gift guid e

by Candice Breeze

or family member, or you’re stumped on what to get your kid this Christmas.

Never fear! Below is a Christmas Gift Guide for all different ages and genders, and best yet it’s local!

MAIN DIVIDE Evo winners face balm & reuzel pomade If you’re man wants to try a new hair style or needs a new wax for his hair, then Reuzel Hair Pomade will be just what he needs. Winners Face Balm is also great for moisturising the face or used post-shave for hydration.

Face Balm: $39.50 Pomade: $39.50

StTropez ultimate glow kit This self-tanning kit gives you an all year long summer radianceminus those harmful sun rays.

Whoever receives this for Christmas will be sure to have a glow on their face!

Price: $75.00

Detango detangling brush Do your kids have terrible birds’ nests in their hair?

Or hard to get out knots?

Then this detangling brush is a must!

It helps get out all those nasty tangles and comes in an array of gorgeous colours!

Price: $19.95

Price: $19.95

COTTAGE CRAFTS Hand painted antique saw If you’re on the hunt for something unique this Christmas, check out the hand painted antique saws down at Cottage Crafts!

They are sure to be a unique art piece in the living room.

Price: $85.00

Bowl cozys I don’t know about you, but every time I microwave something in a bowl I end up burning my hands! However this craft piece has been designed to take that away. Just pop your bowl into this cozy and pop it in the microwave! They come in various colours and sizes.

Price: From $14.00 - $20.00

Wooden Toys Get your kids something that will last a lifetime with these gorgeous hand crafted wooden toys!

There are a number to choose from that are sure to keep your little ones entertained!

Price: $25.00

This is our most recent sale - with exceptionally happy Purchasers and Vendors.....

SOLD UNDER THE HAMMER 1.1 M We chose Ray White, Oxford to market our property and we have been so impressed with Annie and Penny, who from the very beginning instilled in us a sense of confidence and trust.

They kept us very well informed at all times and their professionalism and integrity have been unequaled.

We were happy to support a local business and are thrilled with the excellent result they achieved for us.

A couple of happy, fun ladies with whom we resonated.

Alice & Dave Patterson.

Call Annie or Penny today ...

50 Main Street | Oxford Telephone 03 424 1414

PROUDLY RAY WHITE Next Step Realty Limited Licensed REAA (2008) nine

OXFORD CLUB EST - 1887

OXFORD CLUB

160 High Street Oxford | Phone 312 4411 | www.oxfordclub.co.nz

BAR | BOTTLESTORE + GAMING ROOM Open from 11am Daily

TAKEAWAYS

SUNDAY - THURSDAY 5:00pm - 8:00pm FRIDAY & SATURDAY 5:00pm - 9:00pm

SPIN TO WIN* MONDAYS

RESTAURANT

FRIDAY - SATURDAY - SUNDAY from 5:30pm

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all .

OWMC Members can register at the Bar from 5pm for their chance to spin the wheel to win a prize! Over $2,000 in prizes up for grabs.

Final Draw Monday 20th December when all prizes will go! *Terms and conditions apply

MERRY CHRISTMAS

The Oxford Club Committee wish all our members and staff a happy andsafe holiday season.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Join us to say goodbye to 2021 and see in the New Year Live Entertainment, beverage specials and complimentary nibbles

MY VACCINE PASS VENUE The Committee of the Oxford Working Men’s Club & MSA have unanimously voted to designate the Oxford Club as a My Vaccine Pass venue.

As a condition of entry into the Club and surrounds (including the carpark, and bowling club facilities) all members and guests must be vaccinated and provide evidence of a current vaccination certificate.

There will be an obligation on any non-vaccinated member or guest not to enter the Club.

The Committee’s primary concern is the health, safety and wellbeing of all our members, guests and employees.

OXFORD CLUB YOUR SOCIAL HUB JOIN TODAY FOR JUST $35 OR $17.50 IF OVER 60 (valid until 31/8/22)

FANTASTIC FACILITIES, REASONABLE PRICES AND GREAT COUNTRY HOSPITALITY

SECTIONS TO JOIN

POOL - DARTS - CARDS - GOLF OUTDOOR & INDOOR BOWLS CLAYBIRDS - VINTAGE PLOUGHING RACING - TRAVEL Check out our website www.oxfordclub.co.nz subscribe to our newsletter and like our facebook page for more information on our live shows and upcoming events & promotions fourteen

toddl er to teen Christmas reads

by Candice Breeze

A KIWI NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS

By Yvonne Morrison

Illustrator Deborah Hinde

A humorous take on the night before Christmas, but with a real Kiwi twist! With sheep instead of reindeer, tractor instead of a sleigh, summer instead of winter, and baches instead of houses it feels good to have a Christmas book that is relatable to a good Kiwi Christmas. Santa is even wearing stubbies, a singlet and gumboots!

THE CHRISTMAS PIG

By J. K. Rowling

Illustrator Jim Field

J. K. Rowling has returned with another magical book. This time set in the spirit of Christmas. Jack loves his childhood pig Dur Pig (DP). He’s always been there for him, through thick and thin. Until one night on Christmas Eve, DP mysteriously vanishes. But Christmas is a time for miracles, and remember, many things do come alive at night; even toys.

NUTCRACKED By Susan Adrian Georgie loves to dance ballet. She’s been practicing her whole life and has always wanted to play the part of Clara in The Nutcracker. When she finally gets the part it’s like all her dreams come true! Every time she dances with her nutcracker doll, she leaves the ballet studio and enters into a whole new world where everything around her is wonderful and magical. One day however the Nutcracker’s magic accidentally comes into the real life and Georgie has to save her friend and herself!

THE TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS By Roald Dahl Do you get bored in the Christmas holidays? If so, then this book is perfect for you! Roald Dahl has made a book jam packed with fun festive things to make and do. Aimed for kids 7-9 years old it has scrumptious festive recipes, funny pranks, activities and jolly jokes (that are better than the ones in the Christmas crackers!) Better yet all the activities are based around all of Roald Dahl’s most beloved characters.

LET IT SNOW By John Green, Maureen Johnson & Lauren Myracle.

This book houses three separate stories of three Gracetown teenagers during a snowstorm on Christmas eve, that all eventually intertwine. The Jubilee Express follows Maureen Johnson who is forced to spend Christmas Eve with her grandparents instead of her boyfriend Noah. A Cheertastic Christmas Miracle follows friends Tobin, JP, Duke and Keun. Tobin thinks he is going to have a quiet night with his friends in a James Bond movie marathon, when Keun calls up saying a large group of cheerleaders have been stranded in the restaurant he works at, calling it a Christmas miracle. The Patron Saint of Pigs follows Addie who unimpressed with her boyfriend’s lack of romance kisses another guy. Guilt ridden she breaks things off with boyfriend Jeb. To find out how these stories interweb, you’ll have to read the book, and afterwards you can watch the Neftlix version with the same title.

JOIN THE OXFORD CLUB TODAY Annual Membership Only $35 or $17.50 for Seniors

Sign up at the Bar with photo ID Members can joinFOR our sections, alcohol and receive loyalty points on all purchases RECOMMENDED YOU By purchase Laura Silverman Two opposites who work in a local bookstore ‘Once Upon’, fight it out for a holiday bonus by Courtesy Van available Friday & Saturday from 5pm phone the bar to book seeing who can sell the most amount of books. Shoshanna loves working at the bookstore. She Check out our and newly Facebook foreven more information could read all day. Jake however whoWebsite has just been hired,page doesn’t read or seem to care about books for that matter. But Jake seems to be the one standing in her way for the holiday T’sthat & C’s & Host limits apply, alcohol sale to Members, Guests and affiliates only bonus could fix herResponsibility car. Jake is handsome, single and Jewish which is rare, and he manages to bring the sales in. Shoshanna is ready to take him down. But somehow the competition only brings them closer together. This book is filled with laughs and light-heartedness and makes you feel warm and cosy. And with a headstrong heroine that you can’t help but root for, what’s not to love?

eleven

cocktail time . with Sean Juniper

SE AN’S CHRISTMAS SANGRIA An exciting twist on the classic.

INGREDIENTS

1 bottle of chilled Lambrusco 150ml Trader Jinn Liqueur 150ml Triple Sec 2 cups frozen mixed berries (or more if you wish) 1 Orange, cut into 1cm squares 8 or more mint leaves, sliced.

METHOD

Add the frozen berries, orange, and mint to a chilled jug Pour the Lambrusco, Trader Jinn Liqueur and Triple Sec over the top Gently stir it all together Pour it into the glasses of your choice. You might want to spoon some of the fruit into your glass Enjoy.

NB. The fruit is really nice to eat afterwards, on its own or with ice-cream / cream / mascarpone cheese If you would like a sweeter, less alcoholic version of this, add a bottle of Blood Orange Soda water I use mixed frozen berries so that I don’t have to add ice. If you would like to use fresh berries you will need to add ice to help keep it cool, but that will water it down.

WELCOME TO FLORENCE This December we are delighted to bring you Florence the self-check in kiosk.

As the Practice grows and becomes busier we have noticed a continual build up of patients waiting to check-in with the reception team. We have employed Florence the self-check in kiosk to assist with making the process easier for you.

Florence is located in the front porch and just requires you to enter your name, date of birth and answer a few simple questions to complete the check in process yourself without the need to report to reception.

We are pleased to say initial response has been very good as our patients all seem to be very savvy with this type of equipment. Our receptionists will be able to assist you with check-in if you experience any problems.

Florence joins Andy (the self monitoring blood pressure and weight machine) as we strive to make things faster and easier for you to navigate your way through our Practice.

We are proud to advise that 78% of our eligible patients have had their COVID vaccinations to date - well done Oxford!

We wish all our patients and their extended family a happy and healthy Christmas and New Year.

(03) 312 4195 | twelve

39 Park Avenue Oxford

|

FOR ANY MEDICAL EMERGENCY CALL 111

recip e of the month .

by Louize Juniper

CHOCOLATE ROULADE WITH AVOCADO CHOCOLATE CREAM & BOOZY CHERRIES (pictured on the front cover)

Gluten Free And Dairy Free CHOCOLATE ROULADE

180g 70% dark chocolate. Whittaker’s is best.

6 large eggs separated 180g caster sugar 2 tbs dark cocoa, Dutch if possible Oven fan bake 160oC Sponge roll baking tin 23cm x33cm approx, lined with baking paper.

Melt chocolate in a bowl over a pan of hot water, or in the microwave but be careful not to overheat or burn!

Separate eggs into 2 large bowls. It is best if you have a stand cake mixer or electric hand beater.

Using clean dry beaters whisk egg white until stiff. Set aside.

Add sugar to egg yolks and beat until thick, pale and creamy, which takes a few minutes.

Pour melted chocolate into the thick egg yolk mix and fold in with a spoon until well mixed.

Fold in the egg whites with a large metal spoon trying not to over mix. Once half mixed in fold in sifted cocoa.

Pour mixture into prepared baking tray, pushing the mixture evenly on the tray.

Bake for 20- 25 mins.

Once cooked remove from oven. The roulade will collapse. This is supposed to happen.

Cover with a damp tea towel and leave to cool.

Make Avocado Chocolate cream.

AVOCADO CHOCOLATE CREAM 1 lrg ripe Avocado ½ cup Dutch cocoa ¼ cup maple syrup or runny honey 1tsp vanilla paste/essence Pinch salt Blitz all the above ingredients until smooth and silky, taste for sweetness.

Add more maple syrup/honey if required.

BOOZY CH ERRIES 500g frozen cherries ½ cup sugar 1 cinnamon stick 1 orange juice and zest ½ cup Brandy or Kirsch 2 tbs cornflour Put cherries in a saucepan with cinnamon stick, cover with the sugar, pour over orange juice and zest. Turn on a low heat and let the cherries defrost whilst the sugar dissolves. Once its all hot and juicy add alcohol bring to boil.

Mix the cornflour with 2 tabs of cold water, make a paste. Scoop out some of the hot Cherry liquid and mix With the cornflour paste then slowly add to hot cherries stirring well. Bring back to the boil and cook out until the boozy cherries are thick and glossy. Leave to cool then refrigerate.

CREATING YOUR CHOCOLATE LOG (BUCHE DE NOEL) OR CHRISTMAS YULE LOG Flip the chocolate roulade out on to a tea towel. Take off the baking paper. Position the roulade with the long edge at the top (Landscape) Spread with the Avocado chocolate cream, spoon on some of the boozy cherries, not too many as it will be difficult to roll.

Trim the short edges.

With the help of your tea towel start to roll the Roulade up. It’s ok to use your hands to gently squeeze it together.

Once rolled cut on an angle about a third then position it to create a log.

If you’re wanting it to be super rich, then ice with more Avocado cream!

Decorate to your liking and have festive fun! Crumbled chocolate flakes always make it festive too.

Serve with lashings of boozy cherries and fresh cherries too.

M erry Christmas

thirteen

new book for local author .

Once a Beauty Therapist and a Customer Services Agent with Air New Zealand, PD Dawn is a newly published author from Oxford.

Dawn’s first book, ‘Because of Mercy’, follows the tumultuous love story of Rose and Henry. It was released in June of this year, with a launch at the Oxford Museum. Book 1 of the Coin Trilogy it is set in the early twentieth century against the backdrop of rural Te Awamutu and the battlefields of France in WW1.

“The story is loosely based on my grandparents,” she says, “but while events in the relationship are true – mostly,” she winks, “and the history, the characters have been fictionalised for the story.”

The book has been favourably compared to those of much-loved author Francine Rivers, who it turns out is one of Dawn’s favourite’s too.

“I love a story entwined with history and rich in life experience. The highs and lows are what make a character real, helping us relate to them. After all life is not fluff and bubbles. It’s encouraging to see how people work through their problems and come out the other side, and when there is a faith thread it gives it a bigger dimension.

The reviews for ‘Mercy’ have been incredible, says Dawn, “but I can’t rely on those for the next book.

With each one you start all over again.”

She is currently writing the prequel, which, God willing she says, is due out next year with the sequel not too long after. Joining up to her newsletter will ensure members will hear all the news first.

Visit the author’s website https://pddawnwriter.net to easily purchase the paperback directly.

It will be signed by the author, beautifully gift-wrapped and delivered straight to your door. Or quickly find the link to the eBook.

Christmas perfection!

fourteen

CANTERBURY LANDROVER ARE SPECIALISTS IN SERVICING AND REPAIRING ALL MAKES AND MODELS OF LAND ROVERS. WE ARE ENTHUSIASTIC AND PASSIONATE ABOUT PROVIDING THE HIGHEST QUALITY SERVICE AND W.O.F REQUIREMENTS STOCKISTS OF NEW & SECOND HAND PARTS You can give us a call on 03 928 3250 email service@canterburylandrover.co.nz or come see us at either of our Canterbury Landrover Locations 62 Kennedys Hill Rd Springbank NORTH CANTERBURY

218 Hazeldean Rd Addington CHRISTCHURCH nineteen

MIKE HART

OAS SPEECH COMPETITIONS 2021

Tumuaki update

This last month has been a time to shine.

We had the opportunity to celebrate our Year 11-13 students as they approach the end of their academic year.

Creatively in consultation with our student body, we were able to celebrate in the form of a slightly varied format, while ensuring our obligations to Alert Level 2 health and safety.

We are in the process of editing and formatting the recording of this event to share with you, thanks to student Casey Anderson of Year 12.

We are very proud to announce a number of major prizes including: Dux - Alexander Sillars Proxime Accessit - Ethan Wells (Runner up to the Dux) Sportsperson of the Year - Ashley Riley Student Leaders 2022 Amy Riach (Head Student) Cailey Hollard (Deputy Head Student) Ashleigh Lawler Zara Frahm We are very proud of all prize-winners for their achievements and look forward to celebrating our Year 1-6 and Year 7-10 achievement shortly

(by Jo West) Tukua kia tū takitahi ngā whetū o te rangi (Let each star in the sky shine its own light).

The OAS Speech Competitions are always highly thought-provoking and engaging events and our two 2021 competitions were no exception!

We are extremely proud to see our young people in the senior school write and speak to topics that they personally feel a connection to, and which they are undoubtedly passionate about. All Senior finalists proved they were a distinguished force in the art of public speaking.

Congratulations to: 1st Place: Amy Riach (Year 12) with her inspiring and heartening topic "Don't Wish Your Life Away."

2nd Place: Alexandra Eginton-Abbott (Year 12) and her humorous discussion on "Sarcasm."

3rd Place: Journie Kariatiana (Year 13) who insightfully explored the idea of "Fate and Destiny."

We would like to say a special thank you to David Halls from the Lion's Club of Oxford for his encouragement and support of the Senior Competition, and to Malcolm's Plumbing and Drainage who kindly donated book vouchers to the three placements.

We also enjoyed much success with our Junior Speech Competition with seven students presenting on a range of engaging topics, all self-chosen. It is so encouraging to see such emerging talent at this level.

Congratulations in this competition go to: 1st Place: Isabella Eginton-Abbott (Year 10) who moved the audience with her mature observations on "No Regrets."

2nd Place: Gabriel Austin (Year 9) with his entertaining and witty "Interview with Mr Kean."

3rd Place: Ethan Ricketts (Year 9) and his perceptive and critical look at "The Dangers of Losing Our Oceans."

Special Commendation went to Emma Shore (Year 10) for a unique take on "Pencil Vs Pen." Thank you to the Judges, Mr Hart and Miss Christensen, for giving your time to both competitions.

We know the students love having you attend each event.

Tino pai to mahi to all students who participated! These students have certainly excelled in demonstrating our "He mahi kai hoaka, he mahi kai takata" ~ Anything worthwhile requires considerable effort. See the rewards of your hard work.

Jo West HOD English

Last Month we also held our annual Agricultural Club - an Oxford Area School tradition.

It is wonderful to see the learnings of the group of 28 students involved as they presented their animals to judges. It was also an opportunity to acknowledge Mrs. Rochelle Welch having run the Agriculture Club for over a decade.

Rochelle has developed an excellent model connecting our students with the skills of the community and giving these students an opportunity to shine. Rochelle has passed the "baton" on to Mrs. Jodi Glassford for 2022, and we wish her the best. A huge thanks to parents for their support and to the top quality judges who gave up their time to support our students.

Ngā mihi nui, Mike Hart Tumuaki | Principal

LEADER FOR

CANTEEN NEW ZEALAND. After traversing her own journey with cancer, Erin Sayer is now a CanTeen Leader; she joined the programme to learn more about how to support other rangatahi who are impacted by cancer.

At just 13, Erin’s life changed before she knew it. She was diagnosed with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

You can read more about Erin's journey to becoming a Canteen New Zealand Leader here: https://www.canteen.org.nz/stories/erin/

52 Bay Road Oxford

03 312 4197

info@oxford.school.nz

ANTARCTIC CENTRE VISIT Students from the year 9/10 Science and Social Studies class "EXE" enjoyed a great day out at the Antarctic Centre today.

Many aspects of the Antarctic were experienced including the ecology, climate, survival, clothing, transport and technology.

Highlights included the little blue penguins, the snow room at -18 degrees C, the hands-on science demos, the huskies and of course the Hagglund.

The trip will provide inspiration for students to research a particular area of Antarctic science or social studies as their end of semester project.

YEAR 9-13 ATHLETICS SPORTS The Year 9-13 Athletics Sports were held on Friday 22 October. It was a fun and colourful day as students represented their Houses with an amazing array of outfits and costumes.

Students rotated around events and at each rotation were able to choose whether they competed for House points or Championship points. If they opted for championship points, they competed in the tradition events such as discus, shot put, high jump etc and if they did it for house points, they were able to participate in alternative options such as gumboot throw and medicine ball target.

There was a novelty races event with classic races: sack race, egg and spoon etc. This was a popular event, producing a lot of laughs and will be a keeper for future athletics.

At the end of the day, everyone came together on the senior sports field with a large number of students participating in a "mega" House relay involving 20 students from each House. There were also year group House relays and the much anticipated staff vs students relay with the students sneaking home for the win.

Age Group Championships A number of students competed for championship points and were given points for placing first, second or third in their event.

These points were added up and the age group champions were decided: U14 Boys Fynn Archbold; U14 Girls Millie Bourgeois U15 Boys Billy Hollard (Field), Oliver Sillars (Track); U15 Girls Aaliyah Williams (Field), Emma Shore (Track) Senior Boys Alexander Sillars (He jumped 1.73 m in the Senior Boys High Jump).

Senior Girls Ellie-May King (Field), Jystarnia Millward (Track) Thank you to all of the students who participated on the day.

It was great to see everyone having a go even if it was just for House points and for supporting the students who were competing for championship points.

Deb Baggott - Sports Coordinator Year 9-13

O.A.S AGRICULTURAL CLUB 2021 RESULTS On Friday the 29th of October the 14th annual Agricultural Club event was held in the Oxford A & P Showgrounds.

Twenty six children took part in this event and competed to a high standard.

The students also competed in a team event where they rotated through a series of modules relating to the agricultural industry and team work.

Many thanks to our sponsor B.A Murray Contracting for the t-shirts the students wore on the day.

A big thank you to our judges for their time, patience and knowledge.

Canterbury Boys & Girls Championship Day 2021 Ten students from O.A.S attended the Boys & Girls Agricultural Club Championship Day held at the Canterbury Agricultural Park on Thursday 18 November 2021.These ten students represented their school with pride and enjoyed putting their pets through their paces and competing against other students and their animals from around Canterbury.

Results Logan Birch - Junior Champion lamb Elizabeth Cooper- Senior Champion Beef Calf Tamati Te Awa - Junior Reserved Champion Dairy Calf Amelia Bay - Senior Champion Dairy Calf Will Glassford - Reserve Champion Dairy Calf William Shore - 3rd project book (Senior lamb) Madeline Bay - 3rd Place Overall (Junior dairy) Thomas Bay - two third placing ribbons (Junior dairy) Congratulations to these students .

www.facebook.com/oxfordarea

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

Keeping Healthy with

Tracie Mill er FEEL THE BURN The Christmas season is nearly upon us and with that comes the usual round of parties and overindulgence. If the idea of all those rich meals and the accompanying glass of wine sends you reaching for your antacids, then you may need some help with your heartburn.

Heartburn occurs when acids and other fluids that digest food leak up from the stomach into the oesophagus.

So, what causes heartburn? Well, some foods and drinks can stimulate acid production and/or relax the muscle that stops your stomach contents from moving upwards.

These include spicy foods, fatty foods, alcohol, tomatoes, citrus fruits, caffeinated beverages, chocolate and carbonated beverages.

What can you do to help relieve heartburn?

If you only get mild heartburn infrequently, taking antacids helps relieve the pain and discomfort. If you think you are taking too many antacids too often, then talk to your community pharmacist, who can refer you to your doctor if necessary.

Making changes to your lifestyle can also help.

• Avoid lying down or bending after eating.

• Steer clear of triggers like spicy or fatty foods, alcohol and chewing gum.

• Try not to overeat.

• Eat slowly.

• Avoid tight clothing, like tight belts.

• Don’t exercise on a full stomach.

• Go to bed with an empty stomach, and raise the head of the bed by 10-15cm.

• Get enough rest, and avoid physical and emotional stress.

New range in store just in time for Christmas

Phone 312 4314 49B Main Street, Oxford

Monday - Friday 8.30am - 5.30pm Saturday 9.30am - 12.30pm

WE’ RE CLOSE D 25-2 8 DEC AND 1- 4 J A N . eighteen

fairy doors spotted at giant’s walk

words & photos by Candice Breeze

Rumour has it that there have been sightings of little fairy doors along the Giant’s Walk out at Ashley Gorge over the last few weeks.

Fairy doors of various shapes, sizes and colours, have been seen on trees along the walk, since the last nationwide lockdown.

Dave Shelton from the Men’s Shed was inspired by other local areas putting up Fairy Doors, and thought, “we could do that here!”

Over the course of several months, Dave started to create different fairy doors of all shapes, sizes and colours. Each one has a little lock, and the door can be opened. Inside each door there is a little phrase or saying.

“I thought it would be something nice for the kids to do just before Christmas,” said Dave.

“It’s fun to see the kids running through the walk, getting excited, opening all the fairy doors, seeing what each one says.”

I went along with my husband Todd, and two kids Poppy and Ivy, along with Dave and his wife Jan to the Ashley Gorge track to install a new fairy door.

Dave pulled out a purple and white fairy door with a candy cane bottom that had the words “The Lolli Shoppe” written on the top. What’s inside the door? Well, you’ll have to go find it to see the answer.

He got out his drill, and with the help of Ivy and Poppy, he put the fairy door onto the tree.

They both excitedly opened and closed the door, and read the message inside.

Dave plans on adding more fairy doors to different tracks around Ashley Gorge over the coming months.

If you plan on going to Ashley Gorge in the near future, pop along to the Giant’s Walk and have a look at the magical fairy doors.

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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Oxford Gallery.

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A special thank you to ALL art lovers and champions, talented creatives and our faithful team of volunteers -

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Mayoral Update

Owl Rescue season

with

Dan Gordon.

words by Candice Breeze

Tis the season for Oxford Bird Rescue to be inundated with owls, with it currently being their nesting season.

Around this time of the year, locals tend to move their dry wood out of the way so they can put next year’s wood in, but quite often they tend to find baby owls nesting in there.

“Owls love nesting in wood piles, and if you didn’t know that you wouldn’t know that you are disturbing them,” says Scott Bowman.

They also love to nest in hay sheds, firewood piles, hedge trimmings, anything that they can clamber into the middle of.

Their favourite trees and hedges are the macrocapa as they have a lot of nooks and crevices for them to crawl into.

“If you do find a baby owl or nest, try to put the wood back and leave them as untouched as possible. It only takes them a month to go from hatching to leaving the nest. That’s their best chance for survival.“ If you do find an owl and think it may be injured, give Oxford Bird Rescue a call as the owls are protected under the Wildlife Act. “Owls have specific dietary and environment requirements. All sorts of things can go wrong if they don’t have the tight care, so if you think one is injured, it’s important to get in touch with us or a professional.”

One recent rescue was a baby owl found inside a tractor engine. The little owl was covered in oil.

“It could have been chased by something or been looking for shelter from the rain,” says Scott.

Owls don’t build nests. They are den nesters so they go into holes in buildings and trees, pipes and anything they can crawl into.

“We spent two weeks of constant bathing it to get looking like a normal owl,” says Tracey Bowman.

Oxford Bird Rescue wants to spread awareness about owl nesting around this time of the year. The more people that are aware of owls nesting habits and the time of the year they nest, the better off the owls will be.

“There’s a huge owl population in Canterbury due to wide open spaces and big macrocapa trees and hedges, creating awareness about them gives them the best chance for survival,” says Scott.

HORSE RIDING

We are not against this for the sake of it. What we do agree on is that quality drinking water and better environmental outcomes are essential and support the new water regulator and coming regulation. Who wouldn’t support this?

What we don’t support is the flawed and now forced four-entity model that takes control of our assets which, over the years, you have paid for, and also takes away the ‘local’ say. Our message to the Government is this – press the pause button, let the new water regulator embed, then get back around the table and talk to us about alternative and viable delivery models. We are open to the discussion. Reform needs to have the support of Councils and support of the communities they serve.

Rushed and forced reform is a recipe for disaster.

Recently I was proud to stand beside fellow Mayors Marie Black from Hurunui and Craig Mackle from Kaikoura at the Groundswell event in Amberley, at which we were invited to speak. The above was our message on Three Waters reform. Together, strongly supported by our Councillors, we will do our utmost to make sure your voices are heard and will work tirelessly to make sure we get the best outcomes possible for you on Three Waters.

We won’t leave any stone unturned in our quest to change the Government’s position.

Recently I had the honour to speak at a ceremony at the Rangiora Cenotaph and help unveil a War Animal Memorial Plaque. This is the first cenotaph in New Zealand to have a plaque to honour animals lost in wars and conflicts throughout our history.

Special thanks to Theresa Rosanowski, Claire Hammond and Ann Stewart for their tireless work in leading a dedicated group of animal lovers to see this project reach fruition, and for their efforts in organising a moving event which was a fitting tribute to our fallen service animals. Lest we forget.

We all know it has been an extraordinary year, one unlike any of us would have experienced before (I’m sure we said the same last year).

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

I always look forward to the season of Christmas. For me it is about spending time with my family and enjoying seeing so many people connect and share joy.

Please keep an eye out for people on their own this Christmas and holiday period. This is a time for kindness and sharing.

KOWHAI RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL OF RIDING LTD

711 Island Rd OXFORD Ph 3124309 or 0211619964 www.kowhai.co.nz

Qigong

Councils across New Zealand are mobilising and working together to fight this. It’s important the Government hears the voice of our residents. 30 Mayors and Councils have jointly signed a letter to the Prime Minister. We want to meet with the Prime Minister so she hears your voice and what matters to you.

Waimakariri District Council is part of a group of Councils taking the matter to Court, and we lodged proceedings in the High Court a week ago.

Merry Christmas, Meri Kirihimete!

* Semi-private lessons available Monday to Thursday * Horse riding courses every weekend * School Holiday courses. * Horse treks departing 2pm daily * Complete beginners to advanced riders welcome

Yoga

Three Waters Reform continues to be a very important issue for our communities. There isn’t a day that goes by that I am not stopped multiple times on the street or contacted by phone or email to hear our residents’ concern, anger and frustration at the Government’s decision to force Three Waters reform.

Fitness

workout classes

Thank you to our emergency services, medical teams and all other staff working and keeping us safe over this holiday period.

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

Dan

Mondays, Wednesday & Fridays in Oxford

Gabrielle 027 225 1646

info@taomotion.co.nz

www.taomotion.co.nz

NEW YOGA CLASS Mondays at 9am:1st class $10 twenty three

Oxford Community Trust update Hi everyone.

We hope you are gearing up for a relaxing time with family and friends, after what has been another unusual year.

We have been busy at the Trust this year, supporting families and individuals in lots of different ways, including through our food bank, firewood, medical transport, U-Drive, Supervised access, advocacy and lots more.

We have been working with Satisfy Food Rescue to provide a free food stall in the area. As well as helping people out with food items, we have found this is a great way for people to connect and chat to other people. We have certainly enjoyed being able to provide this service.

Our medical transport continues to be busy. We have a pool of drivers who are able to drive you to your hospital/doctors appointment in Rangiora or Christchurch. We try to keep the fees for this as accessible as possible, with a return trip to Rangiora being $20.00 and Christchurch $35.00.

Our U-Drive programme is working extremely well, helping young people to move from their Learner’s Licence to their Restricted Licence.

Young people are well catered for with the Waimak Kids OSCAR programme run by Nicky Stagg, and OxBox Youth Events, run by Georgia Harris.

A highlight for me this year, was a wellness day we put together for social service workers from all over the district.

The last two years have had extra challenges for those working in this space, and we were able to give over 70 workers a day where they could have some encouragement, creativity, good food and be able to talk to others working in the same fields.

It is not always easy to ask for help, and I would like to acknowledge the strength of all of our clients that seek support from the Trust.

This shows that you have confidence in accessing our services. Your privacy is of utmost importance to us, and we will do our best to assist you to achieve your best outcomes.

I would like to thank all of our many volunteers, without whom, we would not be able to do the work we do. We have over 50 volunteers who work in different areas such as medical driving, reception, driving training, holiday programme and youth events. These volunteers give of their time to support people in the community and we appreciate everything they do.

Of course we don’t work alone in the community. We work with our Oxford Police, Oxford Area School, Oranga Tamariki, Waimakariri District Council, Oxford and Districts Lions, Oxford Budget Boutique, Fresh Choice Oxford, North Canterbury Mini Bus, local churches. Our partnerships with all of these organisations are extremely valuable to ensure wrap around support for our community.

Lastly, thank you to all of our funders who back us up with finances to carry out all of this work. Rata, COGS, Lotteries, Waimakariri District Council, Oxford & Districts Lions, Community Boards, Robyn and the team at Thea’s Boutique.

If you would like to donate a Christmas present for a young person in the community, you are welcome to drop off new wrapped presents to us at the Trust, and we will ensure these are distributed for Christmas. Thank you to everyone who has already donated such lovely gifts. There will be some very excited children on Christmas day.

We would like to wish you all a very happy Christmas.

Let’s all watch out for others in the community who may be feeling isolated or worried about current events.

Jo Ealam

Manager Oxford Community Trust.

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

Merry Christmas, Meri Kirihimete!

We all know it has been an extraordinary year, one unlike any of us would have experienced before (I’m sure we said the same last year). Despite this, or perhaps because of it, it is important that we all take time to reflect on Christmas in our own individual way.

Wish you all a safe and enjoyable festive season with friends and family.

We look forward to continuing to serve our community through 2022.

I always look forward to the season of Christmas. For me it is about spending time with my family and enjoying seeing so many people connect and share joy.

Please keep an eye out for people on their own this Christmas and holiday period. This is a time for kindness and sharing.

Thank you to our emergency services, medical teams and all other staff working and keeping us safe over this holiday period.

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

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

• 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 ~

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OXFORD DISTRICT

UNION PARISH

Oxford Butchery

Sharing Christ in our Fellowship and Community

Fresh to your Plate

ALL SERVICES WILL BE HELD AT 9.30AM AT THE OXFORD UNION CHURCH, 85 MAIN ST, OXFORD

Farm Fresh Flavour 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

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UNION (METHODIST & PRESBYTERIAN) PARISH SERVICES FOR DECEMBER 2021

SUNDAY 12th DECEMBER – Service.

64 High Street Oxford 7430

03 312 4731

027 311 1140

SUNDAY 19th DECEMBER – Service.

Salvation Army Service at 6.00pm.

SATURDAY 25th - CHRISTMAS DAY SERVICE

ALL WELCOME Please note: There will be no Service on 26th, Boxing Day.

UNION PARISH MINISTER: REV. LAURENCE ENNOR PH: 03 357 4475 (Home) or 027 233 4687 (Mob) PARISH CLERK: KEN WALKER Ph: 03 312 1464

Yoga ~ Oxford A 75 minute foundational class offering a mix of classical yoga with a flavour of classical tantra. Discover awareness of breath, body & mind. Create space with gentle, slow/flow movement. Invite interoception and awaken to your own unique sound and vibration.

When: WEDNESDAY 9.30am

Tessa Warburton

Phone: 03 312 4399/027 419 6311 Email: tessawarburton@gmail.com

Marina Vermaat

SUNDAY 5th DECEMBER - Communion Service.

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

dipl. NSF , CCNM/NZSE, RMT-MNZ

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Cost: $80 per term or $10 per casual class Also available ~ prenatal yoga

To book Text Cindy on 0212969819 or email maitriyoganz@gmail.com

‘Just do it!’

Probate application

St Peter Chanel Catholic Parish

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

Sacred Heart Church, Oxford

ENQUIRIES: Waimakariri Parish Ph: 03 313 6285

Cheryl Simes

REGULAR SUNDAY MASS: 8.30am

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

EVENING MASS Every 1st & 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7pm

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

Check their fees first.’

Small Prayer & Reflection Groups Held every 2nd Tuesday at 1.30pm Oxford Church Centre

ALL WELCOME | Call Josie 022 089 8331

“Ye dwell in one world, and have been created through the operation of One will” Baha’u’lla’h _ Bahai.org.nz

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

Chimney Sweep Winters Coming!!

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Breakfast and lunch, gourmet and delicious.

Tuesday to Sunday 9 am to 3pm, coffee to 4 pm.

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Route 72 Emporium, something with a difference for everyone.

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Hours: 8am-11am & 4pm-6pm Phone: 03 312 5744 Mob: 027 457 4431 Email: Theresa@coolcats.nz “Time spent with cats is never wasted” 1891 South Eyre Rd

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• 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

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

FIRE RESCUE

EMERGENCY SERVICES October was a very quiet month for the Brigade with only four calls. This was very welcome.

One call was to assist the Cust fire Brigade at a shed fire. In our area we attended a car fire that was basically destroyed, a motor vehicle accident involving two vehicles. The driver of one received extensive injuries and was removed from the vehicle with the aid of hydraulic cutting equipment. Two to private smoke alarm activations and in one case there was a smell of smoke caused by a diesel central heating system overheating, and the other was when a range hood malfunctioned filling the room with smoke and steam from a commercial oven. This brings our total calls for the year to eighty.

This months message is; Don’t drink and Fry. Instead, pre-prepare a meal, get takeaways, or use the microwave. Never attempt to drink alcohol or take medication that will make you sleepy when cooking.

Oxford Chief Fire Officer

Trevor Ealam Pictured Right

AMBULANCE

The brand new fire truck that the Oxford Fire Brigade received in September, which will replace the old tanker that was housed in the shed next to St John and the old appliance in the station.

The Brigade has now two very modern fire appliances.

Oxford St John Station Manager

M el Brooker

It has been another busy month for the team with a variety of jobs attended.

With the stress of Christmas and the added stress of Covid, please take extra care on our roads, STOP at stop and give way signs a few extra seconds. To do so could save you a huge amount of time in the long run.

If you are injured or unwell please don’t go upstairs to wait for help. Stay downstairs. It can be near on impossible to get some people downstairs in their poor condition.

Our crew is a small group of individual volunteers that are very proud of being such an important part in helping members of our community in times of need.

We are having another volunteer recruitment evening for future members. The process does take about a year to complete. If you are interested please phone the station on 033123516 and leave a message.

Our recruiting officer will be in touch.

I would like to thank our awesome volunteers and their families for all they do and also the amazing emergency services for their continued support and all they do in keeping our community safe.

I hope you all have a fantastic Christmas and enjoy your summer break. Keep safe over the summer period.

The ambulance station at Oxford is not manned 24 hours a day. If you require emergency assistance please call 111.

Look after yourselves and stay safe Mel Brooker Oxford Station Manager

POLICE - FIRE - AMBULANCE >> DIAL 111

twenty seven

THE BUSINES A DV E RT I S I N G

• All Advertising is to be paid by the 20th of the month the invoice is issued in.

• Accounts more than one month overdue will be passed on to our debt recovery team, advertising resuming once the account has been cleared.

Schnurrbart

Terms and Conditions

• All fees and charges incurred due to non or late payment are fully recoverable from you, and will be added to your total debt.

• By accepting our product or services you are deemed to have accepted our payment terms.

Design & Publishing

• We reserve the right to forward your overdue account to a debt collection company, & register the debt with the credit agencies.

• All Rates are PER ISSUE and exclude GST unless otherwise stated.

ELMWOoD AG • SLURRY SPREADING •

WHERE YOU WANT IT - WHEN YOU WANT IT

At the spread rate you want it with GPS

S H E LT E R B E LT T R I M M I N G LT D

| Cleaning of Saucers, Wedges & Ponds

• Experienced Operator • Power Line Clearance • SiteWise Certified

Email: hedgework@yahoo.com Ph: 027 474 3088

PHONE: Bill 027 485 8012 ~ EMAIL: oxfarm@hotmail.co.nz

ELMWOoD AG

• ROUND BALING •

• CULTIVATION •

(Mowing through to Cartage)

(Full Culitvation Service)

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

6m Roller Drill & 6m Direct Drill

SLURRY SPREADING RUT BUSTER FOR HIRE PHONE: Bill 027 485 8012 ~ EMAIL: oxfarm@hotmail.co.nz

4 Trash 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 twenty eight

Large 240 litre wheelie bins Multiple Collection options Weekly - Fortnightly - 4 weekly 6 weekly - 8 weekly - Casual phone or email for a quote

Graham & Kim

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

www.4trash.co.nz

S D I R E C TO RY 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

NEED GLASS?

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

Frameless Showers Repairs & More

Pet doors Splashbacks Mirrors

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

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

One stop shop for your home and property maintenance.

• 24 Metre self propelled spray unit • Auto steer & Auto section control • GPS proof of placement Available • Registered Approved handler

LIQUID NITROGEN AVAILABLE NOW

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?

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

Call Al Today!

0212 499 495 |

CALL NICK RAYMOND 0272838571 Email nick@waimakspraying.co.nz

ajdavies62@gmail.com

Serving the North Canterbury Area

“Totally Dependable”

Phone: 0800 63 63 00

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

THE BUSINES Oxford Screen Hire On Farm Gravel Screening

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

Ph: 03 313 4567

www.ipc.co.nz

Phone Roy 022 043 7834 - Email royhill517@yahoo.co.nz

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 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

Gavin Newick 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

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

WAIMAK

HOMEKILL

Family Business

PROCESSING OF BEEF, SHEEP, PIGS, WILD GAME & SMALL GOODS

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

Bookings are essential

We can arrange to have your animals home killed - Sheep dropoff available

Jason & Julie Ph: 03 312 6227 Email: info@waimakhomekill.co.nz

www.waimakhomekill.co.nz

Roy Hill Contracting Phone Roy 022 043 7834

Email royhill517@yahoo.co.nz

THE JOINER

For all your Solid timber Joinery needs

Owner + operator of a small local workshop

Call Brent on 027 6060 797 email imbrent50@gmail.com thirty

Earth Moving • • • • • • • •

Irrigation Dams Water Races / Cleaning Roads / Farm lanes Cow Lanes Building Foundations Subdivisions Land Clearing Pipe Laying / Tree Ripping

Silage & Agriculture • • • •

Silage Harvesting Claas 8m mower with groupers 56 cubic metre loader wagon 12 tonne Hyundai loader with buck rake • 9m heavy roller • Cultivation • Seed Drilling

Plant Hire • 6m giant disc • 5 Tonne tow behind vibrating roller • Road Sweeper • 2 x Tow behind 25 cubic yard scoops

S D I R E C TO RY

NEED A PLUMBER

RON EALAM BUILDER for all your Building ding

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

Local family Plumbing Business

requirements r

Phone for a

New Homes Additions & Alterations Farm Buildings Concrete Laying Painting & Paper hanging Experienced Builder

FREE

quote now

027 242 4907

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

Fast, Friendly Service, All Work Guaranteed

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

Fencing in the greater Canterbury area.

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

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 Tax Returns Payroll GST Returns Annual Accounts Rental Returns

• • • • • • • • •

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

Steve is available to help with your

Planning and Design

Summerfield Fencing Ltd Jeanette Graves Sharon Stewart

021 853 769 027 241 6345

www.smallbusinesssolutions.co.nz info@smallbusinesssolutions.co.nz

PHONE: 03 312 4747 MOBILE : 027 312 4747

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

thirty one

PROVIDING INNOVATIVE AND CUSTOMER FOCUSED

AGRICULTURAL SERVICES

CULTIVATION & DRILLING

BALING HAY & BALEAGE

BULK SILAGE

TRANSPORT

We take care of all your groundwork needs from ploughing to precision drilling

We’ve got a bale size and shape to suit your needs

We’ve got the gear to get the job done once and done right

We can cart anything from bulk to bales you name it

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

YARD 106 HAREWOOD ROAD OXFORD

SILAGE MANAGER

ADAM GREEN

TRANSPORT MANAGER AARON ROSS

027 374 6357 021 766 384