The Observer - August 2025

the

Obser ver

Inside August 25

A RT H U R B U R K E S U Z U K I S U P P O RT I N G L O C A L

C R E AT I V I T Y S H I N E S AT N O RT H C A N T E R B U RY W E A R A B L E A RT S W H AT ' S O N AT T H E O X F O R D C L U B

+ so much more. more .

from

Obser ver Obser v

Obser ver

er

JULY 2021

INSIDE

this issue

this issue

INSIDE

recipes + Summer Bounty more Great Reads Gin Range + much An exciting new

Mulled wine giveaway Book club | Winter | Fashion reads show + much more

INSIDE issue

on tour Club more - Cobra much plus

this

Welcome to the August issue of the Observer.

2021

the

MARCH

the

the Publishers

the

the

FEBRUARY 2021

r ver Obse

Womersley’s reads look New motivational Five

PUBLISHER

The North Canterbury Wearable Arts was held last month and was again, a great success. Congratulations on the team for a huge effort to bring this to fruition.

Schnurrbart Design and Publishing Limited

In other community events View Hill Schools 'Discover the Night' was a night of community, education and fun celebrating the Dark Sky. Photos from both of these events are in this issue.

Emily Chapman

We were reflecting recently on the changing face of print media, with the recent closure of another local publication.

We are grateful that thanks to our advertisers and readers we are still able to deliver into letterboxes, most publications in our area have moved to just a drop off point.

EDITOR

ENQUIRIES

info@oxfordobserver.co.nz 0800 627 378 37 www. s c h n u r r b a r t de s ig n a n dp u blis h in g . c o . nz

For us it is important to connect with the community and for our advertisers to get maximum coverage by going into all of those letter boxes. So thank you to you all who make this possible.

We hope you enjoy this issue. Remember to get in touch if you have a story you would like us to consider, or if you would like to advertise your business or event. info@oxfordobserver.co.nz.

THE NEXT ISSUE - OUT SEPTEMBER 2025

ADVERTISING DEADLINE | AUGUST 20

All efforts are made to verify the correctness of information contained within this publication.

Bruce & Emily.

However Schnurrbart Design and Publishing accept no liability for the correctness or accuracy of any information contained within these pages.

Any views, information or opinions expressed within this publication are not necessarily the opinions or views of Schnurrbart Design and Publishing or any of its providers.

COVER PHOTO Photo Credit Kate Sophie Photography

Oxford's Real Estate Experts Selling what you love?

Call us for a free appraisal Di Moreira & Julia Borges Licensed Salespeople Rangiora 027 848 8020 • 027 235 0220 two

Raine & Horne New Zealand PTY Ltd Licensed REAA 2008

y r e s r u N e g The Gor Fruit trees now in stock Starting at $45.

Please see website for details Avenue of Bargains still available and being added to weekly Open 9am-3pm – Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri Closed Wednesdays Weekends by arrangement Call/text 0272837279 to make a time NB – nursery will be closed from the 9th-17th August 479 Ashley Gorge Road, Oxford Please wear sturdy shoes Sorry no eftpos

Phone 027 2837279 www.thegorgenursery.co.nz

SELLING IN WINTER? LET’S MAKE IT HAPPEN. Karlee offers:

A calm, pressure-free experience Creative solutions tailored to your need Professional guidance from start to finish

Let Karlee help you move forward with confidence, peace of mind and maximum value for your property.

Contact Karlee today!

arlee KBAILLIE

Four Seasons Realty

020 4070 6502 | 03 313 6158 karlee.baillie@harcourts.co.nz

Licensed Agent REAA 2008

FeEl fAbUlOuS ThIs wInTeR at

MAIN DIVIDE HAIR LOUNGE

Whether you're after a bold new look, a subtle refresh, or just a bit of “me time,” our friendly team is here to make you feel and look your best this winter.

From precision cuts and colour to styling and treatments, we use trusted, professional products and techniques tailored to your hair’s unique needs.

Women | Men | Children Colour Specialists Relaxing Head Massages & treatments Locally Owned & Loved Call us today to book your appointment. Because great hair starts with great care.

CHECK OUT OUR HAIR & BEAUTY BRANDS INSTORE OR ONLINE FOLLOW US

.

03-312 3311

maindividehairlounge

f 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

H A I R S A LO N 53A MAIN STREET OXFORD

three

Artefact: Artists Explore Oxford’s Past ARTEFACT celebrates community and collaboration with new works inspired by objects from the Oxford Museum collection.

The result is an exhibition that is both personal and responsive in its engagement with local history.

Artists Katie Hallam, Casey Macaulay, Tessa Warburton, Celia Wilson, Donna Coster, Kate McIntyre, Nikki Ferguson-Brown, Louise Johns, Catherine Day, Ange Wyllie and Ruth Stanton-Macleod were brought together by monthly meet-ups hosted by Oxford Gallery. Through these casual get-togethers for conversation and for working on individual projects, the artists found they had a shared curiosity about the stories and events that shaped Oxford and the surrounding district, and embarked on a collaborative project to explore this further. With the assistance of volunteers at Oxford Museum, the group has accessed archives, taken photographs and sketched the objects that they were each drawn to, and incorporated this research into the development of new art work. Some of the artists are lifelong locals, others are new to the area, and with this project they have all explored how a sense of belonging to a place can be built by knowing, sharing and reimagining its stories. In an era where community is often fractured or fragile, ARTEFACT reminds us that strong communities are made deliberately, collaboratively and with curiosity and care.

This exhibition responds to the past, and just as importantly, builds connections in the present.

ARTEFACT is the first collaboration of its kind between Oxford Gallery and Oxford Museum and will extend beyond the gallery walls with a trail through the museum, directing visitors to the objects that inspired the works.

Join the artists behind ARTEFACT for a free, family-friendly workshop that brings their creative processes to life. Drop in and try your hand at the techniques and ideas that inspired the artworks in the exhibition. Draw birds, make a box, experiment with pigments, try simple printmaking and more. Each artist will offer an activity that reflects how their works were made, giving you a glimpse into the making of the finished work.

All ages welcome. No experience needed, just curiosity and a willingness to have a go.

Exhibition dates: Thursday 21 August - Sunday 28 September Official Opening: Saturday 23 August, 2-4pm. All welcome.

ARTEFACT Artist Workshop: Sunday 7 September, 1 - 3pm. Free/gold coin | Drop-in

Gallery opening times: Thursday - Sunday, 11am - 4pm. Includes Public Holidays

ARTHUR BURKE SUZUKI

PROUD TO SUPPORT OXFORD RFC.

* DIVISION 2 * UNDER 85KG - BOBBY CALVES. * DEVELOPMENT TEAM - BUCKS.

NORTH CANTERBURYʼS ONLY AUTHORISED SUZUKI DEALER Sales: John 027 7064856 Markham Street, Amberley

www.arthurburke.co.nz four

IS YOUR ORGANISATION ON TRACK? Be a Good Employer as a Not-for-Profit Organisation Is your not-for-profit going to employ someone? This workshop will go over some of the things you should have in place to be a good employer; different types of contracts, employer obligations, legislation requirements and general best practice.

Friday 15 August | 9.30am–12 noon | Ruataniwha Kaiapoi Civic Centre $20 per organisation (up to 2 members per organisation) — For more details and registration visit bit.ly/HumanitixCommunityTeam or contact Aimee Claassens 03 311 8963 | aimee.claassens@wmk.govt.nz

Find out more at waimakariri.govt.nz

Are you a Mahy?

No matter who you are, your creative project may be eligible for funding.  waimakariri.govt.nz/creative

Or more of a Mozart?

The second round of applications for the year will open on Monday 21 July 2025 and close on Friday 21 March 2025.

#ArtsForAllKinds The Creative Communities Scheme supports local artists to create. Visit your nearest Waimakariri Library to get help with your funding application.

five

WANT TO LEARN A BRASS INSTRUMENT OR FINE TUNE YOUR SKILLS?

Whether you're picking up a brass instrument for the first time, or refining your repertoire, Musicworks and Eastman Performing Artist Ryan Peni, who is based in Oxford, offers expert tuition.

To start your brass journey, or take it to the next level, contact Ryan at ryan@nztuba.com or visit: www.nztuba.com

4 9 B M a i n S t r e e t , O x fo r d | P h o n e 3 1 2 4 3 1 4 Mon - Fri 8.30am - 5.30pm | CLOSED Saturday - Sunday

f

THANK YOU TO THE LIONS CLUB

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Lions Club for their incredibly generous support of our District Nursing Team.

Their donations have made a meaningful impact, and include a portable lamp, a gear case, scales, an equipment trolley, and a set of high-quality soft shell jackets embroidered with “District Nurse”.These thoughtful contributions are deeply appreciated and will greatly assist our team in delivering care throughout the community.

STAFF UPDATES

We’re delighted to welcome our new GP Registrar, Dr. Sarah Stevenson, who joined us at the end of July.

Sarah will be working with us Monday to Thursday, and we’re thrilled to have her on board.

We also extend a warm welcome to Dr. Joanne MacGregor, who will be with us every Tuesday from 29 July to 19 August, and again from 23 September to 25 November. Dr. Richard Clinghan will be taking a well-deserved break, and Dr. Ian Smith will be covering his annual leave.

Many of you may remember Ian, as he has worked with us several times before—we’re pleased to welcome him back to the practice.

Finally, we say goodbye to Dr. Merope Griffin, whose last day is 8 August. Merope will be sadly missed, but we wish her all the very best in her new role at her next practice.

FRIENDLY REMINDERS

We understand how important your appointments are, and we do our very best to keep everything running smoothly.

However, just like everyone else, our clinical staff can occasionally become unwell or need time off for rest and recharge.

If changes to appointments are necessary due to staff illness or annual leave, we kindly ask for your patience and understanding. Our team is working hard to care for you, and a little kindness goes a long way. Thank you for being considerate and supportive—it truly makes a difference.

KEEPING OUR CARE SUSTAINABLE: UPCOMING FEE CHANGES

Like many healthcare providers across the country, we’re experiencing increased operational costs. As a result, we will be making small adjustments to our GP fees.

We’ll provide advance notice of the date these changes will take effect, and further information will be available on our Facebook page and website in due course.

After Hours Care

Ka Ora Telecare: Mon-Fri 5pm-8pm, 24 hrs on weekends. Call 0800 252 672 or visit kaora.co.nz Practice Plus: Mon-Fri 5pm-10pm, weekends and public holidays 8am-8pm. Call 0800 7722 7587 or visit www.practiceplus.nz.

Please note prepayment is required prior to consultation.

Healthline: Available 24/7. Call 0800 611 116.

(03) 312 4195 | six

39 Park Avenue Oxford, 7495

|

FOR ANY MEDICAL EMERGENCY CALL 111

. h t n o m e h t f o e p Reci with Louize Juniper

ORANGE & ALMOND CAKE T h i s i s b y f a r t h e e a si e st a n d mo s t de lic io u s c a ke I h a v e e v e r c o me a c ro s s It la sts fo r a few days i n t h e f r i d ge , so c a n b e m ade in a dv a n c e a n d a f a bu lo u s da ir y f re e a n d g lu t e n f ree opt ion!

INGREDIENTS 2 large oranges whole 1 ¼ tsp baking powder 6 large eggs 1 ¼ cups caster sugar 2 ¾ cups ground almonds

METHOD • Place oranges in a saucepan.

Cover with cold water, bring to the boil and simmer for 40 mins.

The Oranges should be soft and spongy.

• Leave to cool • Grease and line a 23cm spring form cake tin • Pre heat oven to 160oC • Cut the ends off the oranges and chop in half. Remove seeds.

• Place oranges in blender and blitz till a smooth paste.

• Add eggs, baking powder and ground almonds and blitz till well mixed.

• Pour into prepared cake tin • Bake for 60 mins, do the cake test with a skewer. The skewer should come out clean after being inserted for 10 seconds.

• Leave the cake to cool in tin.

• Once cooled remove and dust with icing sugar and serve.

• Serve with greek yoghurt or coconut yoghurt.

This cake makes a great dessert when served with berry coulis or caramelised oranges.

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

Enjoy!

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

seven

eight

nine

Creativity shines at

North Canterbury Wearable Arts Show Photos by K Pearce

The recent North Canterbury Wearable Arts Show was again a great success with 62 entries, some coming from as far away as Gore and Nelson. The audience was treated to a spectacle of colour, inspiring designs and beautifully presented wearable art.

Oxford Area School was thrilled with its Year 9/10 students, Margot Godman and Indie Blomfield winning the Supreme Student Award with their beautifully crafted “En Pointe” and Ronia Sinclair winning the Years 7-8 Steampunk category with “The Mechanical Maiden of the Fields”.

Year 2 student Violet Matthews with “Peacock Feathers” bravely led the first set of Years 1-3 students onto the stage. Years 4-6 students also had some amazing hats entered in the Outrageous Hats category.

Laura Hitchon from Compass MC held the show together with her experienced emceeing and Sarah Turpin and George Borrie had their work cut out as the Judges, deciding on the placings within each category.

Adding to the night’s entertainment, North Canterbury School of Dance entertained the audience with two wonderful dances.

This event is a major fundraiser for the Oxford Area School and we appreciate and thank our major sponsor McAlpines Mitre 10 Mega Rangiora and for grants received from Visit Waimakariri and Waimakariri District Council - Creative Communities NZ. It was wonderful having Waimakariri Irrigation Ltd sponsor the flights and tickets to WOW for the Supreme Adult and Student winners.

Oxford Area School is very thankful for the sponsorship received from local companies - Halter, Oxford Ag, Fresh Choice, Super Liquor, Indian Hut, Little Farm Goat Cheese, Andrea Zoe Photography, Diner Oxford, along with PaknSave Rangiora, New World Rangiora, The Warehouse Rangiora and Fernside Trees - in the form of sponsorship which is essential to the successful running of an event of this kind.

While being a fundraiser it is also an amazing opportunity to provide students and adults with a professional platform to express and showcase their creativity in the form of a wearable piece of art in front of an appreciative audience.

ten

The Adult Supreme winner was Suzanne Jensen from Kaikoura with her “Cloak of Blackened Leaf”.

Anyone interested in supporting the show with sponsorship or thinking of entering the show next year, please visit and register with our website www.ncwa.nz for contact details, key dates and categories for next year (TBA), entry information, photos and design inspiration.

Oxford Community Trust

Social Services Cooking for Blokes Next cooking class is on Tuesday August 12th at 12.30pm. If you would like to book in - call the Trust on 03 312 3006 or pop in to save your place.

Thank you Our community is extremely generous and we would like to thank people for recent donations to our Givealittle, for those who have donated their Winter Energy Payment, to the farmers who donate meat for our food bank, and to the Malvern Farmers Veterinary Club Charitable Trust for funding.

Sell your home with Chris and save money!

Free Marketing Package $12,500 +GST Flat Fee* No Upfront Costs No Sale, No Fee

Chris Phillips 027 364 5768

chris.p@arizto.co.nz

Arizto Ltd. Licensed REAA 2008 | *Admin Fee + T&C’s Apply

A Big Shout out to our local Police, Mitch & Jono. The Trust has a great partnership with them, and we appreciate their committment to being available to the community and making it a safer place for all of us.

Thank you to our fab 4 funders • Rata Foundation • COGS • Lottery Foundation • Waimakariri District Council

MEET RICK HARPER NEW SERVICE TECHNICIAN OF CANTERBURY HONDA

OPENING HOURS: MON - FRI 8am - 5pm; SAT 8:30am - 12pm

Boutique Secondhand

Oxford Community Trust Responsive to the physical, social, emotional,and financial needs of individuals, families and groups of people within the community of Oxford and Districts.

37 Main Street, Oxford 03 312 3006

Booksellers Quality second hand books Book Subscriptions Gift Vouchers e woodsidebookshop@gmail.com f facebook.com/woodsidebooks i woodsidebookshop

www.woodsidebooks.shop eleven

Te Kura o Te Poho Rakahua Oxford Area School Tipu Māia Student Leadership Day

Update from Mike Hart In the first week of the school holidays, eight students travelled to

Invercargill to take part in the annual New Zealand Area School Sports Tournament. Our students represented well with many successes over the four days. Well done, Liam O’Carroll (Rugby), Jade Anderson (Rugby), Alice McLauchlin (Netball), and Abi Rei (Ki-o-Rahi and Basketball) playing for the Top of the South Teams in their chosen sports.

Nicholas McKinney(Basketball), Phoebe Minchin (Netball), Scarlett Hart (Netball), and Gus Johnstone (Rugby) went on from their Top of the South games and were selected to play for South Island selection teams, which took on the North Island selection teams on the last day.

At the end of the tournament, national teams were selected from the tournament. Alice McLauchlin and Phoebe Minchin were selected for Netball, Nicholas McKinney was selected for Basketball, and Jade Anderson was selected for Rugby. Congratulations!

"All we have to decide is what to do with the time given us" Gandalf (Lord of the Rings Trilogy) On the last day of Term 2, thirteen Oxford Area School students joined over 120 other students as part of the Tipu Māia Student Leadership Day.

Also, during the first week of the term break, our Year 9/10 Netball team represented our school at the annual Junior South Island Secondary School Netball Tournament at Ngā Puna Wai, Christchurch.

The players shone through great teamwork and some exciting wins!

Congratulations to all of those involved.

Finally, in the last weekend of the school holidays, Oxford Area School hosted its annual North Canterbury Wearable Arts show in Rangiora.

Senior students were involved in modelling for out-of-town designers and we had some amazing Junior entries.

A highlight of the evening was Margot Godman and Indie Blomfield taking out the Supreme Student Award in the school section.

Congratulations.

SISS Junior netball tournament During the first week of the holidays the Yr 9/10 netball team attended the SISS netball tournament in Christchurch.

The girls played 8 games. vs Verdon Green win 24-14 vs Waitaki Girls loss 11-28 vs Hilmorton High School loss 16-30 (Hilmorton finished 1st place) vs Westland College win 26-20 vs Mt Hutt College win 32-10 vs Buller HS win 12-7, (4 all at half time and 6 all at 3/4 time!) vs Rolleston B loss 22-23 vs Blue Mountain College win 32-18 The girls played some tremendous games and had some really tough battles.The kilometers the girls must have run in the 12-7 game was up there. Both teams defense was phenomenal hence the very low scoring game.

To win our final play off for 19th-20th place (19th out of 32 teams) was a real team effort with everyone getting on the court to contribute to the win.

52 Bay Road Oxford

With a mix of inspirational speakers and activities, students had the opportunity to grow their own leadership.

Both speakers shared their own leadership journey. Amanda Board and her journey to a doctorate (PhD) as someone with dyslexia and Sharon Nicholas with her outdoors journey which included being the first female 'door gunner' for the New Zealand Air Force.

Key messages from both speakers included - importance of perseverance (never give in) - failure is not fatal (you learn the most when failing) - guide others (leave them to it) - watch out for obsession (know when to stop) - work hard for others (not just yourself) - fear can be a friend and a foe (do not let it stop you) - make the most of your time (it is up to you, no one else) Our senior students led fun and energising games for the Year 5-8 students during the afternoon session, demonstrating their own team work and problem solving skills.

A great way to end the term.

03 312 4197

info@oxford.school.nz

New Zealand Area Schools Tournament In the first week of the holidays eight students from Oxford Area School travelled to Invercargill to play in the New Zealand Area Schools Tournament.

OAS is very proud of the following students who, during the first week of the holidays, represented TOSI (Top of the South Island) in their respective sports.

Gus Johnstone and Liam O'Carroll - rugby, Nicholas McKinney basketball, Abi Rei - ki o Rahi and basketball, Jade Anderson - rugby, Alice McLauchlan, Phoebe Minchin and Scarlett Hart - netball.

The tournament was held over four days (30 June-3 July) with TOSI versing either the North of the North Island, Central North Island or South of the South Island on the first three days. While the majority of sports were played indoors in the ILT Stadium Southland, Ki o Rahi and Rugby braved some cold and wet outside conditions.

OAS students shine at North Canterbury Wearable Arts show on Saturday 12 July in Rangiora Oxford Area School was so proud and excited to have Year 9 and 10 students Margot Godman and Indie Blomfield take home the Supreme Student Award with their entry "En Pointe" on the night.

As part of their prize, Margot and Indie will be flying up to Wellington to attend a WOW performance. Congratulations to both students.

This award was sponsored by Waimakariri Irrigation Ltd. Congratulations to Year 8 student Ronia Sinclair who was awarded First place in the Years 7-8 Steampunk category. There were also some fabulous entries from our Years 1-6 students in the Outrageous Hats category.

Suzanne Jensen from Kaikoura was awarded the Adult Supreme Award.

With 62 entries coming from as far afield as Gore and Nelson, there were plenty of imaginative and beautifully crafted costumes for the audience to enjoy.

Sarah Turpin and George Borrie were the judges and Laura Hitchon from Compass FM emceed on the night. North Canterbury School of Dance students entertained the audience with their amazing dance routines.

The Oxford Area School would like to thank all our local sponsors, Waimakariri Irrigation Ltd, Halter, Oxford Ag, Super Liquor Oxford, Freshchoice, Canta Valley, Diner Oxford, Indian Hut and Little Farm Goat Cheese, and Andrea Zoe photography for contributing to a successful night.Our heartfelt thanks to our major sponsor, McAlpines Mitre 10 and to ENC and Waimakariri DIstrict Council's Creative Communities for their grants.

Well done to all those who entered the show.

If you are interested in participating next year, please check out our website www.ncwa.nz .

Next year's dates and categories will be listed shortly.

On the final day the best of the South Island teams versed the best of the North Island teams in each sport. At the end of the tournament a New Zealand Area Schools team for each sport was named.

Congratulations to the following students who were selected for the South Island teams Gus Johnstone - Rugby Nicholas McKinney - Basketball Phoebe Minchin - Netball Scarlett Hart - Netball Congratulations to the following students who were selected for the New Zealand Area Schools teams Alice McLauchlan - Netball Jade Anderson - Rugby Nicholas McKinney - Basketball Phoebe Minchin - Netball Thank you to Liam's, Scarlett's and Gus's parents and Jade's Dad for supporting the team.

www.facebook.com/oxfordarea

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

Discover the Night event a success for View Hill School Photos by Kate Sophie Photography

Despite a few clouds overhead, spirits were sky-high at View Hill School's recent “Discover the Night” event, which drew a crowd of between 400 - 500 people for an evening of learning, laughter, and community connection.

As the rain cleared just in time, families and stargazers gathered to enjoy live music, workshops, hot food, and laser-guided tours of the night sky. While a bit of cloud cover affected some stargazing, it certainly didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of those who turned out.

One of the event's key goals was fundraising, and organisers were pleased to reach their target, with all proceeds going toward future school projects.

“It was also great to showcase and highlight the Dark Sky,” said Principal Pax O’Dowd. “The presentations were awesome, people really want to learn more about this.”

For Pax, the true highlight was the sense of togetherness the night brought. “To be able to pull in that many people to our wee school, and highlight the Dark Sky in a family setting, especially in the middle of winter was fantastic.

The community vibe was something really special.”

fourteen

MACHINERY

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

TYPE OF WORK

• Subdivision Earthworks • Ponds and Dams • Root Raking • Tree Felling • Stump Removal • Tracks and Driveways • Water Race Cleaning

GRAVEL SUPPLIES

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

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

Ph 027 295 6794 | www.alexmasoncontracting.co.nz

fifteen

NEED A PLUMBER

THOMSON AND SON P L U M B I N G LT D

CALL US NOW FOR FAST FRIENDLY SERVICE GET YOUR PROBLEMS SORTED OUT QUICK SMART - ON TIME!!

Let us help you find your next read with a book subscription.

We choose a book to send to you every month based on your tastes.

Quality second hand books Book Subscriptions Gift Vouchers L O C A L FA M I LY P LU M B I N G B U S I N E S S P H O N E N OW F O R A F R E E Q U OT E

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

QUARRY SUPPLIES

QUARRY SUPPLIES sixteen

e woodsidebookshop@gmail.com f facebook.com/woodsidebooks i woodsidebookshop

www.woodsidebooks.shop

Boutique Secondhand Booksellers

CAP 40 CAP 65 CAP 40Pit Run CAPCAP 65 20 CAP 20 Pit Run Large Soakpit Large Soakpit BouldersBoul Crusher Crusher Dust Dust Arena and Fill Sand Arena and Fill San M4-40 M4-40 Screened Soil Screened Soil Dean Hurley 027 333 7140 Dean Hurley 027 333 dean@hagg.co.nz

dean@hagg.co.n

Oxford Women's Forum who are we?

Next year marks an exciting milestone for the Oxford Women’s Forum . 40 years of bringing women together for casual, friendly evenings filled with good food, laughter, and inspiring guest speakers.

Formed in 1986, the Oxford Women’s Forum is a group of like-minded local women who enjoy a night out that doesn’t break the bank, or require cooking! It’s a relaxed and welcoming environment for catching up with friends, meeting new faces in the community, and hearing from interesting speakers and entertainers.

The forum meets five times a year, between March and November, on Wednesday evenings at the Oxford Club Restaurant. Doors open at 6.15pm with dinner served at 6.30pm. You’ll be home by 9pm, making it a perfect midweek outing. (Meetings are cancelled in the event of severe weather.)

There are no membership fees, and the cost per evening is just $27, which includes your meal and helps cover general costs.

A raffle is also held at the November meeting to help fund advertising and thank-you gifts for our guest speakers. Donations are warmly accepted.

Over the past year, we’ve had the pleasure of hosting a wonderful range of speakers, including: • Jo Seager sharing insights about hospice care • Jeff Robinson speaking on beekeeping and honey • Dave Taylor discussing the art of growing roses • Lorraine Parry offering expert advice on garden design

Oxford & Districts Lions raise funds for the Oxford District Nurses Team Every year the Oxford and Districts Lions Club holds a charity golf tournament at the Waimakariri Golf Course. This event is well supported and is one of the Club’s most successful annual events.

For the 2025 year the Lions agreed to divide the proceeds of this event, between the installation of high-resolution security cameras in Oxford, and the surrounding areas, and to the purchasing of specialised medical equipment for the Oxford District Nurses Team.

In close consultation with the nurses, the Lions purchased on their behalf, a Mobile Procedure LED Light, Stainless-steel Medical Trolley, Digital Blood Pressure Monitor, Nurses’ Equipment Bag with Telescopic Foldable Trolley, Digital Floor Scales and for each of the four nurses a Navy Apex Softshell Jacket, embroidered with “Oxford District Nurses”.

The Oxford District Nurses provide an extremely important role in our community and generally fly under the radar until we need their services and support.

Supplying this specialised equipment to the Nurses was very satisfying for our Club members.

It’s a great feeling to be in a situation where we could make this happen for them.

Our next meeting will be on Wednesday, September 3, featuring Andrea Gauland (pictured below), a local goat milk and cheese producer. Andrea’s business is going to be featured on Country Calendar in August!

The committee is small but dedicated, and we are currently looking for a treasurer to join our team. If you're interested in getting involved please get in touch with Sandra. To register your interest or learn more, contact Sandra at gsjca@xtra.co.nz or Text 027 698 6163 All current members will be contacted prior to each meeting.

We’d love to welcome you at our next event, come and enjoy what the Oxford Women’s Forum has to offer!

seventeen

from the Presidents Desk

Mayoral Update

with

Dan Gordon

One of the most significant decisions for our district’s future has recently been confirmed – our Water Services Delivery Plan has been approved by the Government. I’m proud to say Waimakariri District Council is one of the first in the country to formally establish its future water service structure under the new Local Water Done Well legislation.

This is the result of years of advocacy, careful planning and community support. When we consulted with the community earlier this year as part of our Annual Plan, we received 764 submissions – over 97% backed our proposal to deliver water services through an internal Council business unit.

That strong mandate gave us confidence to move forward with a structure that keeps decision-making local and puts the needs of Waimakariri residents first. Over the past 20 years, we’ve invested more than $100 million in high-quality water infrastructure. We manage six urban and five rural drinking water schemes, two wastewater systems, and multiple stormwater areas that together serve the majority of our population.

Our infrastructure is already in strong shape, and we’ve planned ahead with a 150-year strategy and another $112.7 million allocated for upgrades and safety improvements. An internal business unit allows us to retain local ownership and control over $1.1 billion of assets, while giving us the flexibility and oversight to meet higher regulatory standards in a financially sustainable way.

Our Council also played a leading role in shaping the policy direction that underpins the Local Water Done Well framework.

As a founding member of Communities 4 Local Democracy, we joined with around 30 other councils to advocate for a model that supports local decision-making, while ensuring water services meet national requirements and remain financially sustainable into the future. Over the next 12 to 24 months, we’ll deliver on this plan and continue our strong working relationships with neighbouring councils like Hurunui and Kaikōura. We remain open to expanding shared services where it makes sense to do so and delivers benefits for our communities.

Thank you again to everyone who made their voice heard. Your support helped shape a future where Waimakariri continues to make decisions, for Waimakariri.

I welcome contact from anyone who needs assistance or has an issue that you might want to discuss.

with Oxford Club President

Kyle Scott

Welcome to the August edition of From the President’s Desk.

The 2025 year is flying by, and in September the Oxford Club will be holding our Club election for our Executive Committee.

The club governance structure comprises of President, Vice President and six committee members. The term of service is 12 months, and as the Club is a Friendly Society, we also have three trustees who are elected at the AGM. As a vital part of our community the Oxford Club serves as a hub for social, recreational and cultural activities. Now, we are on the lookout for interested members who want to contribute to the growth and vibrancy of our club.

New committee members bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the committee and club and make a positive impact by shaping the events, programmes and initiatives that enhance the overall experience at our club.

,

Why should I put my name forward, you may ask?

The following bullet points are just a few of the reasons to stand for our executive committee: •Club and Community input: Make a positive impact by helping to plan and shape the events, initiatives and programmes that bring our Club and Community together.

• Team Collaboration: Work closely with a diverse group of committee members who share a common goal to enhance the overall experience at our club.

• Personal Skill Development: Develop your leadership, organisational and communication skills by participating in planning and taking part in various club activities.

• Fun and fulfilment: Being part of a team and creating memorable experiences can bring enjoyment and fulfilment to you as an individual.

• Networking opportunities: Connect with new faces and make new friends and expand your network in our Club and community.

If you would like to find out more about an executive position, please feel free to contact me or our Vice President Lin Fagan. We are happy to chat and explain all.

Our ongoing membership draws have proven extremely popular, and we appreciate your support. Remember to enjoy the services the Club has to offer and if you are lucky enough to win a promotion at the Club, you must be a current financial member and be able to produce your Club membership card at the time of the draw.

Well, that’s all for now, remember that it may be cold outside, but you are always assured of a warm welcome at the Oxford Club.

Plus, our log fire in the main bar burns with a cheery glow and adds to the convivial atmosphere.

In keeping with our election theme, the saying of the month is: “Shape tomorrow – Serve today”!

Looking forward to seeing you soon at our Club.

The Oxford Club, your Community Club!

Kyle Scott

Email me at dan.gordon@wmk.govt.nz or phone 021 906 437.

Oxford Club President

I’m here to help.

Dan.

OXFORD CLUB EST - 1887

eighteen

ELMWOoD AG

Muck spreading Muck & calf bedding

General excavation Dump trailer & cartage Rut buster for hire

Drilling Full cultivation service

Round baling.

Mowing though to cartage

Phone Bill 027 485 8012 ~ Email oxfarm@hotmail.co.nz

Things got a little out of hand? Difficult Trees?

Need a good snip and trim...

• • • • • • • • •

All types of tree removals (large and difficult?? No problem ) Crown lifting and Crown reductions Formative pruning Fruit tree pruning (Autumn/Winter) Hedge and shrub trimming Stump grinding Felling Chipping Mixed age arborist mulch, sales and delivery

Kiwilaw - making legal work more bearable after a loved one dies Probate (High Court approval of the will) should never cost more than $1000 unless there are major problems with the will. Get a specific probate estimate before you let any other lawyer start that work! As executor, it’s your decision...

Kiwilaw’s online probate service usually costs $490 (plus $260 High Court fee).

Available nationwide—tho’Oxford based—so please tell your friends and family!

Cheryl Simes

Kiwilaw lawyer/director

Qualified Arborist, Fully Insured Locally Based

Txt/Call Alec 0275 255 044 alec@maartentrees.co.nz

021 701 838

https://kiwilaw.co.nz/wills

PROVIDING A SAFE SYSTEM FOR....

• TREE REDUC TION • ONE OFF TREE REMOVAL • HEDGES • SHELTERBELTS Ability to work around buildings and fencing Contac t Sam for a quote 027 380 6121 mechanarb@gmail .com nineteen

Emergency Services update Oxford St John

with Mel Brooker

We have had a reasonable month with our total jobs at 160 for the year so far.

At this time of the year we get a lot of call outs for croup. This is caused by a virus - usually the same virus that causes the common cold. It affects the upper airway and is more common in winter. It mainly affects children under 5 years of age, due to the smaller airways. The word croup means to cry hoarsely.

It will usually last for 3-5 days.

You should seek medical advice if: The child develops high pitched breathing sounds both in and out.

Makes high pitched breathing sounds when not crying.

Begins to drool or has swallowing problems.

Fast breathing rate, or struggles to breathe.

Seems anxious, upset, restless or extra tired with no energy.

Develops a blue or grey tinge around the nose or mouth or fingernails.

Sometimes taking a child outside in the cooler air may help to settle croup.

With Spring not far away, I imagine people will start taking advantage of our fantastic walkways and tracks we have available in our foothills and mountains, please make sure you are prepared for a change in weather with warm clothing and extra food.

Make sure you are wearing appropriate footwear. Jandals and crocs have no place on any of these walkways/tracks.

If you have any enquiries for the Oxford station, our phone number is 03 312 3516. Leave a message and someone will get back to you.

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

Enjoy the nice sunny days.

Oxford Fire Rescue

with Chief Fire Officer Trevor Ealam

June was a bit busier for the Brigade with seven calls. One call was to assist the Cust Brigade at a house fire.

The calls in our area were for two structure fires. One house fire where the fire damage was contained in the cell of origin, and the other was a two bay shed fire which was basically destroyed. There was one call to assist St John, one to a commercial alarm activation where no action was required by the Brigade, and one motor vehicle crash (car versus pole).

The occupants of the vehicle had decamped and fled the scene before Brigade arrival. This brings our total calls for the year to thirty.

This months message is; When cleaning the ashes out of your fire boxes, please put the ashes in a metal container, not plastic buckets, plastic bags, cardboard boxes or the like. Please put the container outside in a safe place, not on wooden floors or decking and soak them with water, you can even bury the ashes in the garden and wet them down,the ashes can be good for the soil.

Just remember it can take up to five days for the ashes to cool.

Oxford Police

with Jono Stagg

Mitch and I have been busy with lots of random jobs. Of note there have been a couple of burglaries, so please make sure you keep things locked and report any suspicious activity. Just a reminder when you are reporting , use the 105 number or online if it’s already happened, otherwise 111 if it’s currently happening.

We are out and focused on traffic now, so expect to be stopped if you are travelling over the speed limit.

Police are targeting the 1-10 km/h over.

We have been very lucky weather wise this winter, but we’ve still had crashes involving vehicles hitting icy patches on our roads, so please be careful when driving especially on cold mornings.

The first new community cameras will be up and running next week. This is a great result and hopefully the fundraising can continue to get the rest of the network in and active.

If there's anything that you need to discuss with Mitchell or I, please use 105 or 111 if it's happening right now, otherwise drop in and see us if we're at the station.

FOR ALL EMERGENCIES DIAL 111 twenty

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

Fencing in the greater Canterbury area.

Free Estimates

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

ALL STOCK FENCING – POST DRIVING YARDS – POST AND RAIL FENCING FARM – SUBDIVISION LIFESTYLE BLOCKS - RESIDENTIAL

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

NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL Steve is available to help with your Planning and Design

NEED A PLUMBER? CALL DARREN NO W

027 279 4999

SUMMERFIELD FENCING LTD

PHONE: 03 312 4747 MOBILE : 027 312 4747

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

PL UMBING, DRA INAGE AND HEATING SER VICES , NEW B UILDS TO RENOV ATIO NS www.dcplumbing.co.nz

Gavin Newick GN Plumbing and Drainage Ltd Plumbing:

S H E LT E R B E LT T R I M M I N G LT D • Experienced Operator • Power Line Clearance • SiteWise Certified

Sewer & Stormwater:

• New Builds • New Installations • Maintenance • Repairs • Alterations • Alterations • Dripping Taps • Septic Tanks • Hot Water Cylinder • Blocked Drains Replacements • Water Blasting

. Insurance Repairs .

CRAFTSMAN PLUMBER & DRAINLAYER

CALL TODAY...

After Hours:

03 312 1785

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

twenty one

“Solely run for the comfort and convenience of cats”

p. 03 312 1452 | 021 0424 367 e. angelcats@xtra.co.nz www.angelcatscattery.co.nz 52 Church Street, Oxford

YOGA FITNESS QIGONG

* Advanced Facials * Peels & Skin Treatments * Waxing * Eyelash and Brows

by Appointment only phone

03 310 6139 021 024 19237

19 Goodwood Close Rangiora

Weekly Classes in

Oxford, Darfield & Rangiora

info@taomotion.com | www.taomotion.com

@angelcatscattery

Gabrielle phone 027 225 1646

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

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

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

SERVICING YOUR AREA with Full Property Management and Farm house inspections

CONTACT THE TEAM TODAY 027 313 2270

e office@ruraltenancy.co.nz | www.ruraltenancy.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

Lorinda Harrington

Independant Registered Financial Advisor

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

THEBROKER.co.nz Free Service - for all your mortgage requirements twenty two

Sales, servicing and repair of all major brands.

Drop into the shop or call us to arrange a home or business visit.

Open Mon-Fri am--pm Durham Street, Rangiora mm rangiora@ipc.co.nz www.ipc.co.nz

EARTHWORKS? EARTHWORKS? EXCAVATIONS? EXCAVATIONS?

PLASTERER

Interior RENOVATIONS ltd.

• Interior Plastering • Gib fixing • Cornice & cove • Skim coating Phone Mark 027 438 0665

interiorrenovationsltd@gmail.com Registered Tradesman

www.bayphil.co.nz CALL BAYDON 027 405 9910

ARTEFACT Thursday 21 August – Sunday 28 September

Foundations Retaining Walls Landscaping Irrigation Excavation Waterline Excavation Sewer Excavation Trenching Tracks & Driveways Land Clearance Demolition Lifestyle Blocks Drainage Tip Truck 5-20 Tonne Diggers

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

Celebrating community and collaboration, with art inspired by objects from the Oxford Museum collection. Katie Hallam, Casey Macaulay, Tessa Warburton, Celia Wilson, Ruth Stanton-Macleod, Louise Johns, Donna Coster, Kate McIntyre, Nikki Ferguson-Brown, Catherine Day and Ange Wyllie.

Opening: Saturday 23 August| 2 – 4pm | All Welcome Artist Workshop: Sunday 7 September | 1 – 3pm | Koha | Family-friendly 72 Main Street, Oxford | 11am–4pm Thurs–Sun 03-3121639 | oxfordgallery.org.nz Registered charity CC10601

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

OXFORD DISTRICT UNION PARISH Sharing Christ in our Fellowship and Community

dipl. NSF , CCNM/NZSE, RMT-MNZ

Marina Vermaat 64 High Street Oxford 7430

03 312 4731 New Line Line dance course at Dancing atOxford, Oxford5th Feb.

Normally $10 a to night, this course for 6 weeks @ $50 upfront, Oxford 5th February.

Dancing a variety ofis music, exercise, socialising and Dancing to a variety of music-not just country. Suitable for any age, both men & women travel all in one package.

Exercise, socialising, and travel all in one package.

Suitable for young and old, both men and woman Monday’s 5.30-6pm Book you spot contact Instructor, Jenny Brookes. welcome.

Cell; 0274 452 285 or email; Jennybrookes76@gmail.com

Oxford Club Monday’s 6 - 8:30pm.

New beginners class starts at 5.30pm.

First timers please contact first.

Instructor: Jenny Brookes 0274 452 285 jennybrookes76@gmail.com

027 311 1140

For Beautifully Handcrafted Books

Tessa Warburton BOOKBINDER • Restoration • Repair • Private Tuition

Phone: 027 419 6311 Email: tessawarburton@gmail.com

UNION (METHODIST & PRESBYTERIAN)

ALL SERVICES WILL BE HELD AT THE OXFORD DISTRICT UNION CHURCH 85 MAIN STREET, ON SUNDAYS AT 10.00AM Salvation Army Service at 6pm every 3rd Sunday

PARISH CLERK: Contact ph 0226218278

God judges the righteous, and God is angry with the wicked every day.

Psalm 7:11 www.wbible.nz

ADVER TISING Ter ms and Conditions • 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 account has been cleared.

• 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.

• 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.

twenty three

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

FOR ANY ENQUIRIES CONTACT 021 275 2432 YARD 106 HAREWOOD ROAD OXFORD