The Observer - August 2026

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Obser ver

Inside

AUGUST 2026

A RT H U R B U R K E S U Z U K I - T H E W I N T E R S AV I N G S C O N T I N U E KOREAN LUNCH RETURNS TO OXFORD UNION CHURCH

N E W V E H I C L E D O N AT I O N F O R O X F O R D C O M M U N I T Y T R U S T

+ so much more. more .

from

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2021

JULY 2021

INSIDE

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

this issue

this issue

INSIDE

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MARCH

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

on tour Club more - Cobra much plus

this

INSIDE issue

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the Publishers

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FEBRUARY 2021

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Womersley’s reads look New motivational Five

PUBLISHER Schnurrbart Design and Publishing Limited

EDITOR Emily Chapman

Welcome to the August issue of the Observer.

The Oxford Community Trust was recently granted funding from the Hugo Charitable Trust to purchase a new vehicle. This is in use already, helping young people gain their restricted licence, and also taking people to their medical appointments in town. It's great to see such good support for the Trust.

Spring really is just around the corner and we have an update from the Oxford Tennis Club. There is always a lot going on in the community - we are lucky to live in such a great place.

Thank you for your continued support of our magazine, it's always a pleasure to get another issue out into letterboxes.

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.

ENQUIRIES info@oxfordobserver.co.nz 0800 627 378 37 www. s c h n u r r ba r t de s ig n a n dp u blis h in g . co.nz THE NEXT ISSUE - OUT SEPTEMBER 2026

ADVERTISING DEADLINE |AUGUST 20 All efforts are made to verify the correctness of information contained within this publication.

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.

Bruce & Emily.

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STAFF UPDATE We would like to welcome our new GP Registrar, Dr. Alastair Dunbar, who joined us at the beginning of this month.

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

A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRACTICE Our practice is currently experiencing very high demand, and we sincerely appreciate the patience, understanding, and kindness shown by our community during this busy period.

We understand that waiting for an appointment can be frustrating at times. Please be assured that our team is working hard to provide the best possible care for everyone who needs our services.

If we are unable to offer you a timely appointment, we encourage you to consider the following alternatives: • Practice Plus provides online consultations with New Zealand-registered clinicians and can be a convenient option when appointments at the practice are limited. To make an appointment, call 0800 772 275 or visit www.practiceplus.nz.

• Ka Ora Telecare provides after-hours healthcare support for rural communities.

Appointments can be booked by calling 0800 252 672 or visiting www.kaora.co.nz.

While our usual providers currently have limited appointment availability, our new GP Registrar has appointments available, and we are also pleased to welcome back our trusted locum, Dr. Ian Smith, who will be joining us soon.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding as we work through this particularly busy time together.

Your respect and kindness towards our staffare greatly appreciated and make a real difference.

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Donation from Hugo Charitable Trust of Vehicle for Oxford Community Trust The Oxford Community Trust has received a generous donation of $35,000 from the Hugo Charitable Trust to purchase a new vehicle. They have purchased a Ford Puma which will be used to enhance the services they provide in the community.

Oxford has no form of public transport and a growing elderly population which means being able to access services in Christchurch is extremely difficult. The Trust provides a medical transport service with a pool of volunteers who take people to their appointments and support them as necessary.

Last year Oxford Community Trust travelled over 31,000 km supporting appointments for their clients.

Youth will also benefit from this donation through the U-Drive Programme that was set up in 2014.

Getting a drivers licence is vital to the young people of the district to access opportunities including recreational, sporting, educational and employment.

Students on the programme are mentored by volunteers, along with receiving professional instruction to help them gain their restricted licence.

Maryanne Green, eldest daughter of the late philanthropist and businessman Hugh Green (known in Ireland as Hugo), established the Hugo Charitable Trust in 2017 to continue his legacy of giving back to the people of New Zealand.

Since its inception in 2017, the Hugo Charitable Trust has donated over $23.5 million to worthy causes throughout New Zealand.

U-Drive Co-ordinator Julia Graham says “We are really excited to have another car to enable us to give more young people the opportunity to get their licence. To have a brand new car for this is awesome and they will all enjoy driving it”.

Oxford Community Trust Manager Jo Ealam says “We are so grateful to the Hugo Charitable Trust to have this vehicle donated.

As a small Trust we rely heavily on our funders, and it is not always easy to access funding for vehicles. We feel very privileged that they have recognised the work we do”.

Waimakariri Pottery Group is holding its biannual pottery exhibition at Kaiapoi Art on the Quay. This exhibition enables club members to showcase and sell their pottery. These local potters come from a variety of backgrounds and make an amazing range of ceramic items, both functional and decorative.

Potters will submit pieces for the exhibition and they will be selected by a Christchurch artist, Tatyanna Meherry, who will also exhibit some pieces at the exhibition. Tatyanna has exhibited widely, teaches ceramics and has been honored to have won the Supreme Award at World of Wearable Art twice.

Since our last exhibition in 2024 we have had some exciting changes. We have a new extension on our pottery clubrooms at Loburn Domain which gives more space for creation and can also accommodate our expanding membership. We have also changed our name from Rangiora Pottery Group to Waimakariri Pottery Group to better reflect our membership which comes from this whole region including members from Oxford and surrounds.

The Waimakariri Pottery Group has been running since 1968 and has a well equipped space for pottery. We have classes available each term, regular club sessions and sometimes run workshops or special events such as raku firings. You can find out more information on our website: https://www.wpg. nz/ or send us an email at info@wpg.nz The exhibition will run from its opening night at 5:30pm on August 6th until September 9th and is open the same hours as the Kaiapoi library. Come along, see some beautiful ceramics and get inspired!

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. h t n o m e h t f o e p i c Re

with Louize Juniper

C H O C O L AT E N E M E S I S C A K E W I T H CARAMELISED MANDARINS A decadent rich flourless mousse cake which is simple to make, and a perfect dessert for a winter dinner.

Ingredients • 350g dark chocolate 70+ cocoa • 225g butter • 5 large eggs • 1 cup and ½ cup caster sugar • splash vanilla

Method •Heat oven to120oC •Line a cake tin 23-25cm with baking paper, if using a spring form tin wrap foil all the way up and make sure it’s water tight.

•Melt chocolate and butter in a bowl over a saucepan of boiling water, make sure the bowl isn’t touching the water.

•Once the chocolate has melted remove from the heat and stir well.

•Break the eggs into a mixing bowl add the ½ cup of sugar, beat until it doubles in size and is light cream in colour and fluffy.

•Put the remaining sugar into a saucepan with 100 mls water dissolve and allow it to boil for two minutes and it becomes a light syrup.

•Pour the syrup into the chocolate and butter mixture and allow it to cool a little.

•Pour the chocolate into the egg mixture and gently whisk with a ballon whisk until it's well combined then pour into the baking tin.

•Place the cake tin into a deep sided roasting tin, fill with hot water and put into the oven •Bake for 1hr 30 mins. The cake should be set and starting to pull away from the edges of the baking paper.

•Leave to cool in the water bath (bain marie). Once cooled keep in the fridge until serving.

CARAMELISED MANDARINS Ingredients • 1 Kg approx mandarins/satsumas • 500g caster sugar • 1 cinnamon stick • 5 cardamom pods crushed • 250 mls water • Juice of one orange • 60 mls rum or an orange spirit of your choice

Method •Peel mandarins carefully to keep them whole, remove as much of the white pith as you can. Place in a heat proof bowl.

•Put the sugar, cinnamon stick and cardamon pods in a heavy based saucepan, add the water. Swirl to help dissolve the sugar, do not stir.

•Slowly bring to a boil without stirring until the syrup becomes a golden amber colour, remove from heat.

•With tongs dip the mandarins in the caramel as quickly as you can.

•Place the saucepan back on the heat, pour into the remaining caramel the rum and orange juice.

Gently dissolve the remaining caramel over the heat, once runny pour over the Mandarins with the pods and cinnamon stick.

•Once cooled cover and store in fridge until ready to serve.

•I like to keep in a preserving jar and then use them to serve with Greek Yogurt or ice cream.

Enjoy and keep warm.

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New regulations for tree owners

Clear to Sky From mid-October, all power lines must be 'clear to the sky'.

This means keeping the space above power lines free from tree branches and vegetation, not just the space beside them.

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We are incredibly fortunate to be part of a school that receives such strong community support. This valuable backing enhances our learning environments and allows us to offer our students inspiring, future-focused opportunities throughout the entire year.

Lesley Inch Tumuaki | Acting Principal Te Kura o Te Poho Rakahua Oxford Area School

Congratulations to Alice McLauchlan and Phoebe Minchin on being selected for the New Zealand Area Schools’ Netball Team.

We are very proud of your success.

With the start of a new term, there is an opportunity to pause and reflect on the year so far. There is so much to look back on and celebrate, with exceptional learning, collaboration, creativity, and personal development taking place right across our kura. Whether achieving in the classroom, on the sporting field, or engaging out in our community, our students continue to fill us with pride.

New Zealand Area School honours.

Te Kura o Te Poho Rakahua Oxford Area School

Oxford Observatory and the Challenges of Flying in the Solar System In conjunction with the Oxford Observatory, we were privileged to host Dr Bruno Sousa, a Flight Director from the European Space Agency (ESA) overseeing satellite missions across the Solar System last month.

His presentation was both fascinating and inspiring, providing an insight into the incredible world of space exploration.

Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make it such a successful evening.

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Congratulations to all our students whose artwork was displayed at the recent Kaiapoi Art Expo.

Your great work was recognised and we received an award Best High School Panel.

Well done!

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Pushcart Grand Prix Last term we saw the return of Pushcart Grand Prix and it didn’t disappoint the crowds!

As students lined the track cheering on their friends, they witnessed hard wheel-to-wheel racing and some fantastic overtakes.

The pushcart teams had done an amazing job over the past semester to plan, construct and test their carts that enabled them to put on a great show for the school.

The event began with a parade lap of competitors and their machinery, followed by 4 races that really put the carts through their paces.

The crowd saw a few crashes, a catastrophic failure of one cart and several pieces of bodywork dislodging themselves after some close racing.

Congratulations to the winners - Freedom, Emilee and Gabby for building a great pushcart that proved reliable and fast!

Finally, a big thanks goes to Peter Hildyard, John Cookson, Jane Anderson and Glenda Pitcher for their help in making the Pushcart Grand Prix a roaring success!

Lantern Project A Celebration of Culture, Nature, and Connection.

Students from Oxford Area School and Japan worked together on a Lantern Project that mixed art, culture, and care for the environment. The main idea behind it was kaitiakitanga - looking after the environment/world. The lanterns feature animals and plants from both countries, including some endangered species.

When lit, the designs glow and cast shadows that highlight the importance of protecting nature.

Students used digital design and laser cutting to build shadow box lanterns, then assembled them carefully so the light could shine through their work.

Rau Whetū

Each lantern also includes the Matariki constellation, known in Japan as Subaru, showing the connection between both cultures under the same sky.

In June our school held the first of its twice-yearly Rau Whetū events. This celebrates the learning of all our students from Years 1-10.

Our students have done an amazing job in Semester 1, and it was great to see so many people from our community supporting them.

A special thank you goes to Mr Halliwell, who led and taught the project throughout the week and made it all possible!

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Korean Lunch Returns to Oxford Union Church Kia Ora, My name is Rev. Hun Song, and I have the privilege of serving as the minister of Oxford Union Church. It has been a joy to serve this wonderful congregation.

It has now been just over a year since I began my ministry in Oxford. During this time, I have been grateful for the warm welcome I have received from the people of Oxford and for the many opportunities to get to know the community through church and local events.

Oxford is a place that brings me joy in every season.

In summer, I love the lush green countryside, and in winter, the snow-covered mountains create breathtaking scenery. Together with the kindness and hospitality of the people here, these are just some of the reasons why I feel so thankful to be part of this community.

One of the highlights of last year was our Korean Lunch. It was a wonderful day where people gathered to enjoy homemade Korean food, share stories about Korea, and learn a little about other culture. The lunch reminded us that good food has a special way of bringing people together and creating new friendships.

Because of the wonderful response we received, we are delighted to hold another Korean Lunch this year.

Whether you came last year or have never visited the church before, you are warmly invited. You don't need to know anything about Korea, just bring your appetite and enjoy a relaxed lunch with friendly people from our church.

There will be some traditional Korean dishes, good conversation, and a warmwelcome for everyone.

At Oxford Union Church, we believe that sharing a meal is one of the simplest ways to build community. We hope this lunch will be another opportunity for neighbours to meet, enjoy good food, and experience the hospitality that makes Oxford such a special place.

Korean Lunch Date: Thursday, 20 August Time: 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm Venue: Oxford Union Church Cost: Free

RSVP: Please contact Rev. Hun Song on 021 290 0112 by 17 August.

We would love to welcome everyone from our community to join us for this special occasion.

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Mayoral Update

with

Dan Gordon

A huge bouquet to the Oxford Promotion Action Committee (OPAC) (Experience Oxford), local businesses and everyone who helped make this year’s Oxford Winter Lights Festival such a success.

I thoroughly enjoyed presenting the category prizes at the end of the festival. The creativity on display across the children’s letterbox decorating competition, residential lighting displays and business lighting displays was outstanding. It was wonderful to see so many people getting behind this community event, including our farming community with their beautiful display of lit up tractors.

This year’s theme, Matariki Herenga Waka – The Mooring of Canoes, truly celebrated connection, reflection and community spirit. The Winter Lights has become one of those special events we look forward to each year.

In the middle of winter, there is something very special about a community choosing to create light for one another.

To OPAC’s dedicated volunteers, thank you once again for the enormous amount of work that goes on behind the scenes. Your passion and commitment continue to make this a standout event for the community.

On another community matter, it was encouraging to meet recently with the new focused working group looking at the future of health services in Oxford. This follows the public meeting in April, which I had the privilege of helping to chair, where many of you shared your thoughts about current services and what you would like to see in the future. The working group came together at the end of June to consider the ideas that came from that community feedback and to discuss the next steps.

At our next meeting we’ll hear from the Canterbury Clinical Network about its proposed model of care for Oxford, which it developed some years ago. We will also hear about the plans the Oxford Health Charitable Trust are developing for their proposed new facility, as well as receiving an update on the hospital and proposed maintenance plan.

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

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

I’m here to help.

Dan.

Oxford - Ohoka Community Board update with

Thomas Robson

Hi again folks.

It’s good to know we are nearly at the end of winter, but it has been brightened up by the Winter Lights competition which was very well supported again. I enjoyed helping to judge this competition and it was pretty hard to choose a winner with so many good entries.

Since my last column the Community Board had received the interim decision by the Environment Court regarding the Woodstock Quarry Landfill application. The applicant has been granted conditional approval, however before the final can be given the consent conditions must be amended to align with the direction provided by the court, and this will be subject to feed back from the parties involved including the Community Board. This means that we will be providing feedback on the new conditions once they are submitted by the applicant. This is not what the majority of the community had hoped for, but at least all of our submissions have been heard and the Environment Court is taking them into consideration, which will help strengthen the regulations around the operation of this landfill.

Over the last couple of months there has been a lot of discussion around the Carter Groups application to the fast track process for their development in Ohoka. It is disappointing that this process continues to be drawn out and unfortunately the Community Boards’ ability to be involved is limited due to the fast track process, but it is good to see so much community feedback and involvement.

At our July Community Board meeting the Board approved a report to up grade the Coopers Creek car park, particularly around the toilets. This has been an issue that has been discussed for quite a while and formalising sections of this carpark will help resolve some of the issues that residents in the area have raised, and it should improve things for people using the walking track.

If you want to raise any issues with us feel free to come along to our next meeting where there will be a public forum at the start of the meeting where anyone can speak. We also have a discretionary grant available to local community groups for projects benefiting the community.

Our next Board Meeting is being held – Wednesday 5 August 6.30pm Mandeville Sports Centre

Thomas Robson Deputy Chair Oxford Ohoka Community Board

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Lessons have continued throughout the off season, with coaches Phil Hanson and Aaron Pullar both pleased to see the ongoing commitment from players of all ages and abilities to keep their skills and fitness up.

Both coaches will be onsite at our coming Spring Open Days, to be held Sunday 13th and 20th September at Oxford courts.

Free introductory lessons will be available for kids through to adults (bookings essential), followed by social tennis for all.

C

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These winter events are agreat little earner for the clubs who run them too and we enjoy supporting them.

7.0 MON ug O 0p m 17th A R M MU T N IT Y T R U S

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The 2025/26 North Canterbury Interclub tennis season presented new challenges for our players as two previously separate grades (Presidents 1 and Presidents 2) were combined to form simply “Presidents”.

While this did see some pretty tough match ups take place between the top and bottom teams, it was another brilliant season of tennis with the weather playing its part throughout (apart from a few rather gusty nor-westers keeping things interesting!) and ensuring all Saturday competitions took place from October through to March.

Our local Oxford Tennis Club put forward the same two teams again – Oxford Red, and Oxford Black. Although neither team came away with the overall Presidents grade win this year, it was great to see some newer members enjoying more court time and making their presence felt. A few members from both teams were plagued by niggly injuries over the season and we hope to see them regularly back on court again for 2026/27.

Teams of 4 play 3 timed sets under lights every Thursday from 6.30pm. Once warmedup, the evenings make for a surprisingly nice time of day to play, with some memberscommenting they prefer it to playing in the heat of summer!

OX

Tennis Interest Continues To Grow At Oxford Tennis Club

Existing & New

Members

ALL WELCOME

Enquiries cont act Mark 027 661 10 25

For more information, email us at oxford_tennis@hotmail.com or visit our Facebookpage: www.facebook.com/OxfordTennisClubNZ

One Year on The Oxford Oddballs team continued to participate in Thursday evening summer social tennis too, forced to play some “home” games at Coldstream or Kaiapoi courts instead of in Oxford due to our lack of court lighting. With our Oxford Tennis Club continuing to grow and members keen for lessons and game time all year round, we would dearly love to find a cost-effective way to put up some floodlights at our local courts.

We welcome all suggestions!

Following our Club Champs in April, we decided to support local again for our end of season wrap-up. A lovely dinner and social get-together were enjoyed by all at the Oxford Club in May, followed by prizegiving.

Congratulations to our club winners for 2025/26: - Ealam Cup Mixed Doubles Club Champions: Julia Graham & Phil Allchurch -Women’s Singles Club Champion: Julia Graham - Men’s Singles Club Champion: Phil Allchurch - Farrow Cup (Most Improved Player): Tegan Hutton-Marshall - Special Trophy for Service to the Club: Andy Forster Through the winter, the Oxford Oddballs and a second team featuring some new local players, the Oxford Spin Doctors, have also been enjoying some rather fresh but highly enjoyable night tennis in the Coldstream and Kaiapoi Business House competition.

Oxford Dental is soon to celebrate our first year.

We are so very grateful for the amazing welcome!

We love being able to bring dental services more conveniently to this great community, thank you for involving us.

On the subject of anniversaries, it’s worth noting the ongoing workload your own teeth handle. Molars typically manage bite forces in the range of 120–160 PSI during normal chewing, with some people exceeding 200 PSI, particularly if you grind your teeth.

And remember that pressure in your car tyres is typically 30–35 PSI, so a molar bite is roughly 4–5 times that!

This force is concentrated at the molars because of their proximity to the jaw joint and the muscles working the joint, giving them significantly more force than the incisors at the front.

When molars are missing, that load doesn’t disappear — it redistributes forward onto the front teeth, which aren’t built to bear it. This accelerates wear on incisors and canines, and places extra strain on any existing fillings in that area, increasing the risk failure of fillings and tooth.

Regular monitoring helps identify these issues before they progress.

Consider giving your teeth a birthday too, monitoring and preventive care can go a long way to keeping you chewing comfortably and effectively for as many years as you need them!

CALL US TO BOOK IN !

021 273 6963 or 03 423 9424

oxforddental.co.nz 634 Bay Road, Oxford TUESDAY - WEDNESDAY- THURSDAY 9AM - 4PM Dentist Dr. Yvonne Vannoort

seventeen

From the Presidents Desk

with Oxford Club President Kyle Scott

Lorinda Harrington

Independant Registered Financial Advisor

Hi there, and welcome to the latest edition of from the President’s Desk.

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

The year seems to be racing by, and August is the time to renew your all-important Oxford Club Membership. Your Oxford Club card membership is much more than a membership card – it’s your connection to our Club that belongs to all of us.

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

U

WINCH TOWING Accident Breakdown 24/7

Renewing your membership before the 31st of August ensures that you continue to enjoy all the Club benefits without interruption.

This may include eligibility for membership draws, special promotions, member discounts and rewards, Club entertainment, social activities and access to all the facilities and services the Club have to offer.

Our Club is proud to be a community focused organisation, and every member has an important part to play. Your ideas, suggestions and feedback help shape the future of our Club.

FOUR WHEEL DRIVE RECOVERY

If you have concerns, see opportunities for improvement or any ideas that may improve our service or facilities please don’t hesitate to have a chat with me or a committee member.

• All Insurance Companies.

• Police approved/ registered.

• Secure Storage.

• Free Car Removal.

We are here to listen, support and represent you our members and all work together to make our club an even better place for everyone.

Licenced for all Towing - Offroad - Winching - Salvage All types of terrain, Car, 4wd and van.

• Offroad Towing.

• Accident Towing.

• Breakdowns.

• Canterbury Based.

Find us on Facebook Winch u towing @ 4wd recovery Brodie Stewart Licenced Operator

PH: 0279188008 E: winchutow1@gmail.com

Thank you for your continued support, by renewing your membership before expiry on the 31st of August you are helping to ensure our Club remains a strong, welcoming and vibrant community hub for years to come.

Looking forward to seeing you all at our Warm and Welcoming Club very soon – The Oxford Club – Your Community Hub

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!!

The Oxford Club – Your Community Hub – Bringing People Together!

Kyle Scott | Oxford Club President

OXFORD CLUB EST - 1887

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 eighteen

What is dry skin?

Oxford Butchery

BEREAVEMENT IS HARD.

Kiwilaw helps soften the pain of your legal work as executor.

Farm Fresh Flavour

Probate should never cost more than $1000 unless there are major problems with the will.

Fresh to your Plate

Get a specific probate estimate before you let any other lawyer start that work!

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.

As executor, it’s your decision...

Kiwilaw’s online probate service usually costs $590 (plus $275 High Court fee).

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

Bookings essential

Cheryl Simes

Oxford Butchery Ltd

Kiwilaw lawyer/director

4th Generation Family Butchers

44 Main Street - Oxford

021 701 838 https://kiwilaw.co.nz/probate

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

While normal skin has a smooth and glowing appearance, dry skin looks dull and may be rough, scaly and prone to cracking.

How dry our skin is varies with age and genetic make-up, but dryness can also be caused by exposure to the sun and wind, airconditioning,soaps and detergents, hot spas,baths and showers, and some medications.

Although any body site can be dry, dry skin tends to affect the shins more than any other site and areas may become itchy, indicating a form of eczema/dermatitis has developed.

When the dry skin of an elderly person is itchywithout a visible rash, it is sometimes called winter itch, seventh age itch, senile pruritus or chronic pruritus of the elderly.

The mainstay of treatment of dry skin is moisturiser/emollients. They should be applied liberally and often, and generally work best if applied to damp skin.

Dry skin can be prevented by

Things got a little out of hand? Difficult Trees?

Need a good snip and trim...

• • • • • • • • •

Qualified Arborist, Fully Insured Locally Based

• Reduce frequency of bathing.

• Humidifier in winter and air conditioner in summer • Consider having a short shower rather than a prolonged soak in a bath.

• Use lukewarm, not hot, water.

• Replace standard soap with a substitute • Apply a moisturiser liberally and often, particularly shortly after bathing, and when itchy. The drier the skin, the thicker this should be, especially on the hands.

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

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

Boutique Secondhand

Booksellers

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

www.woodsidebooks.shop

49 B M a i n S t re e t , O x fo rd Phone 312 4314

OPEN Mon - Fri 8.30am - 5.30pm CLOSED Saturday and Sunday nineteen

Emergency Services update

Oxford St John

with Mel Brooker

Today has been a lovely warm sunny day, after the good frost this morning.

A bit of a change from yesterday, but don’t we love looking up and seeing those snow-covered mountains.

This month we have responded to twenty jobs around Oxford, Fernside, and Mandeville.

The total for the year is sitting at 117.

Christchurch Hospital was under a level red this week which is a critical overload status and is operating over 100% capacity with patients being managed in the corridors.

If you are requiring health advice and are unsure if you require an ambulance or not, please call Healthline on 0800 611 116. If you are truly unwell, please call 111without delay. There are some nasty flus going around now that can develop into chest infections/pneumonia which will require further treatment from your health professional.

Also, at this time of the year please be careful in shady area with slipping over, We are recruiting now for first responders. Please be in contact 03 3123 516 and leave a message. Or go on the St john page and apply through their careers page for ‘Oxford First Responder’ Please also remember that the Oxford ambulance station is not staffed 24 hours a day.

Trust

Social Services SHOPPERS BUS Tuesday 11 August - Northlands $10 Tuesday 25 August - Rangiora $7 These bus trips are filling quickly so bookings are essential and can be made at the Trust or by calling 03 312 3006.

FOR HIRE We have a BBQ Trailer & Bouncy Castle for hire - for more information contact the Trust on 03 312 3006.

In any emergency, always call 111.

Thank you for your continued support.

Mel Brooker EMT VTL Oxford St John Station

Oxford Police

Oxford Community

with Mitch Alatalo

A big hello to all. I must say it has been great to see the sun, and dare I say a little bit of heat, but there is still plenty of weather to come. So with that in mind take care out there.

I hope everyone had a great break with their kids, and couldn’t wait to see the new school term start.

Road Policing is high on the list of priorities, and with the icy conditions really making a comeback after the warm start to winter it is once again time to remind everyone to slow down and drive to the conditions. There have already been far too many close calls.

A change of topic, scammers. It’s a good reminder, they are still out there, inventing new and wonderful ways of tricking you into parting with your hard-earned money. If you do fall prey to one of these many schemes, please let us know. Your personal details are yours and there is no reason why anyone should be asking for them via a text message or even via the phone.

Last but not least, be vigilant around the school and preschools with our little one on the roads, they are unpredictable. Also, you will have noticed the new speed limit signs that have installed at the schools in our district, please abide by them.

THANK YOU Thank you to the Hugo Charitable Trust for their very generous donation enabling us to buy a new vehicle.

Thank you also to a farmer for donation of meat and those who donate their winter energy payment to the Trust.

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

Once again thank you for your time.

Be safe. Feel safe.

Oxford Fire Rescue

with Chief Fire Officer Trevor Ealam

June was busier than the previous month with six calls. Three of the calls were during the day of the strong northwest winds.

One to assist the occupant of a dwelling where a tree fell across the roof, one to assist with closing a door that blew open in the wind and the other was to slash fires that had re-ignited in the wind. The other calls were, one to assist St John, one to a chimney fire and one to a large slash fire called in by someone some distance away who could see the flames above the trees, which turned out to be a controlled burn and was being attended by a farm worker.

This brings our total calls for the year to thirty six.

This months message is; Of late there have been a lot of slash, rubbish and hedge trimming fires, these fires will stay hot for days, weeks or even months and the northwest wind will re-ignite them setting fires to hedges, trees and buildings etc. Please make sure they are properly out before the predicted winds arrive, also have plenty of water on hand while burning. Just imagine how you would feel if someone’s uncontrolled fire got into your property burning your assets.

FOR ALL EMERGENCIES DIAL 111 twenty

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

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

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

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

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

NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL

www.4everplumbing.co.nz

Steve is available to help with your Planning and Design

SUMMERFIELD FENCING LTD

NEED A PLUMBER? CALL DARREN NO W

PHONE: 03 312 4747 MOBILE : 027 312 4747

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

027 279 4999 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:

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

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

CALL TODAY...

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

• Experienced Operator • Power Line Clearance • SiteWise Certified

After Hours:

03 312 1785

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

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

twenty one

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

• WOF Cars and Trailers • Motorbike WOF • Vehicle Servicing & Repairs • Tyres & Punctures • Towing & Salvage • Courtesy Car available

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

13 Stone Eyre Place, Swannanoa Mon - Fri 8AM - 5PM Phone : Aaron Rowlands 0272 588 366

For Needs Forall allyour yourElectrical Electrical Wiring Needs New NewHousing Housing&&Alterations Alterations Sheds, Sheds,Barns Barns&&Farm Farm Maintenance Maintenance Lights, Plugs & Spas Lights, Plugs & 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

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

Tree Trimming

Hedges need trimming?

* Tree Topping * Main Power Approved Contractor * Power line clearing * Clean up options available

We offer Hedge Trimming around the District!

Jeanette Graves Sharon Stewart

021 853 769 027 241 6345

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

Please contact us for more information or to book in your hedge

Phoneor ortext text Jack: Jack: 021 Phone 021206 2067533 7533 Dee: 029 849 1660 • Email: sales@waieyrefarm.co.nz Phone or text Jack: 021 206 7533 . Email admin@waieyrefarm.co.nz Office: 03 312 6338 Office: 03 312 6338 • Email: admin@waieyrefarm.co.nz Office: 03 312 6338 . Email admin@waieyrefarm.co.nz

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

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

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

Registered Tradesman

HELLO DARKNESS Common Ground Collective 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 e woodsidebookshop@gmail.com f facebook.com/woodsidebooks i woodsidebookshop

www.woodsidebooks.shop

Catherine Day, Nikki Ferguson-Brown, Suzanne McDonnell, Kate McIntyre, Russell Perry Thursday 6 August – Sunday 6 September Visit oxfordgallery.org.nz/activities to see the full event programme for this exhibtion, which includes stargazing, a children’s art workshop and a performance by Ariana Tikao.

72 Main Street, Oxford | 11am–4pm Thurs–Sun 03-3121639 | oxfordgallery.org.nz Registered charity CC10601

Boutique Secondhand Booksellers

“Solely run for the comfort and convenience of cats”

dipl. NSF , CCNM/NZSE, RMT-MNZ

p. 03 312 1452 | 021 0424 367 e. angelcats@xtra.co.nz www.angelcatscattery.co.nz

64 High Street Oxford 7430

52 Church Street, Oxford

Marina Vermaat

@angelcatscattery

03 312 4731

027 311 1140

For Beautifully Handcrafted Books

Tessa Warburton BOOKBINDER

Sharing Christ in our Fellowship and Community

• Restoration • Repair • Private Tuition

85 MAIN STREET, OXFORD UNION (METHODIST & PRESBYTERIAN)

Phone: 027 419 6311 Email: tessawarburton@gmail.com * Advanced Facials * Peels & Skin Treatments * Waxing * Eyelash and Brows

by Appointment only phone 03 310 6139 021 024 19237

OXFORD DISTRICT UNION PARISH

19 Goodwood Close Rangiora

EVERY SUNDAY 10.00AM THIRD SUNDAY CAFE SERVICE ALL WELCOME The Salvation Army now meet every 3rd Sunday at 5pm followed by a shared meal

PARISH CLERK: Contact ph 0226218278

YOGA FITNESS QIGONG

Weekly Classes in Oxford & Rangiora

Thursday classes start soon info@taomotion.com | www.taomotion.com

Oxford Boarding Kennels 312 Kiri Kiri Road, Oxford P: 312 3355 or 027 288 8724

Opening Hours

MONDAY - SATURDAY 9am-11am & 4.30pm- 6.30pm

SUNDAY 3pm - 6.30pm

Inspection Welcome

Old Cars, Utes, 4WDs and Vans wanted for repair or dismantling

CASH PAID

Call 027 291 7172.

Gabrielle phone 027 225 1646

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