Obser ver
fromthe Publishers
Welcome to the March issue of the Observer.
This issue marks 8 years of us publishing the Oxford Observer. Over the 96 issues we have told many stories of local people, businesses and organisations. Our goal is always to promote positive community stories.
The print industry is a challenging one, but we are proud of our magazine. To be able to deliver into letterboxes is something we are pleased to be able to do still.
We hear all the time from our readers that they love getting the magazine delivered and they read it cover to cover. In an age where we spent so much time looking at screens, physical media is really important.
Of course none of this would be possible without our wonderful advertisers, some of whom have advertised in every single one of those 96 issues.
Thank you to you all. Thank you for reading and supporting us. We look forward to the coming years.
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.
Bruce & Emily.
PUBLISHER
Schnurrbart Design and Publishing Limited
EDITOR
Emily Chapman
ENQUIRIES
info@oxfordobserver.co.nz
0800 627 378 37
www.schnurrbartdesignandpublishing.co.nz
THE NEXT ISSUE - OUT APRIL 2026
ADVERTISING DEADLINE | MARCH 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.
4 Bed 3 Bath 7 Car
(Granny flat + Shed inclusive) (Main dwelling) 226m2, 4ha
It’s official: Granny flat development just got easier!
More flexibility. More value. More possibilities for homeowners and investors alike.
If your household is expanding, your home is feeling tight, or you’d like a comfortable space for extended family, adding a sleepout or separate small dwelling in your backyard has become significantly more straightforward
Since mid-January, homeowners in residential and rural zones across New Zealand can build a single-storey granny flat of up to 70 square metres on their property without needing a building or resource consent Government estimates suggest the change could save around $5,650 and reduce waiting times by as much as 14 weeks [i]
The updated rules are widely seen as a positive step for families needing extra space without the cost of upsizing, landowners wanting to make better use of their property, and developers exploring small-scale housing options where subdivision isn’t practical but an additional dwelling is
However, it’s not a complete free-for-all Property owners must still notify their local council, meet all relevant building code requirements, and use licensed professionals for construction Sites affected by planning overlays such as flood risk or infrastructure constraints may still have extra conditions to meet More detailed guidance is available through Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment
[i] https://www beehive govt nz/release/granny-flat-consent-exemption-takes-effect
Did you know?
Di and Julia are both fluent in Brazilian Portuguese and have each spent over five years living in Brazil (at different times) with their Brazilian husbands, giving them a strong appreciation for different cultures and the ability to connect easily with a wide range of clients
Together, they bring energy, experience, and a shared commitment to making every property journey feel smooth, informed, and professional from start to finish
NEW LISTING
5 Burnt Hill Road, Oxford
599 Downs Road, West Eyreton
LISTING
Lot 3 Sold, another under offer, 3 sections still available
Concept image
Annie has a passion for people and real estate, a passion that ensures she gives 110% to all her clients Annie has built a substantial reputation over the past 20+ years within the Oxford and Darfield communities for getting great real estate results. She loves what she does....and she is great at it.
With over two decades of community engagement, Emma seamlessly transitioned her wealth of experience into the dynamic field of real estate. Now firmly entrenched in the industry, Emma brings plenty of knowledge about buying and selling property and strives to do the best by her clients
Annie Smith 027 202 8155
annie smith@raywhite com
Emma McNatty 021 131 8384 emma.mcnatty@raywhite.com
Summerhill Road,
Bed 3 Bath
58a Newnham Street, 3 Bed 1 Bath 1 Car Rangiora
Woodside Road, 809 sqm Oxford
Oxford Men’s Shed Completes
New Town Entrance Signs Project
The Oxford Community Men's Shed has just completed installing the new replacement signs at each end of the township.
Working in with the Waimakariri District Council, the project was started a little over 3 years ago when the old signs were showing signs of major decay .
The old signs were repaired to try and make them last another few years while the macrocarpa slabs that were purchased at the time dried out - the process taking 3 years .
The work on the new signs started in November 2025 when the slabs were dragged out of storage into the workshop.
The preparation work including sanding and filling with epoxy, and repeating the process until there was a solid water proof surface suitable to apply the perspex lettering onto. There were then 3 coats of oil based covering applied.
THE SUNROOM for HAIR and BEAUTY
END OF SUMMER PROMO
COMPLIMENTARY PAMPER SERVICE for all clients who book a colour appointment in March.
Treat Yourself
(includes a hair treatment & 10 min Ultrawave massage) • Added value $48 • Rehydration
OPENING HOURS TUESDAY-SATURDAY (Closed Sunday-Monday)
The signs were installed by our Men’s Shed members with the help of Sam from Mechanarb with his Hiab truck.
Tuesday 9am-8pm, Wednesday 10am-8pm Thursday 9am-5pm, Friday 9am-5pm Saturdays 9am-2pm
Hairdressing Lash and Brow tinting Ultra wave Massage Bed
PHONE 03- 312 3234 | 109 BAY ROAD OXFORD
“Our Commitment is to Quality Service”
Working for Waitaha Canterbury
New Listing - This 195m2 single-level home offers the kind of everyday ease families are drawn to. Four bedrooms, two bathrooms and two living zones. New Listing - This fully decorated home is waiting for its next family. Private and secure with a great backyard for the trampoline or entertaining.
Linda
022 692 6090
Whether you’re starting out, raising a family, or looking to downsize, this home makes everyday living feel effortless.
Linda
Have you been looking for a property that has plenty of bedrooms and bathrooms for your family/extended family or that home+rental or Air BnB income.
Oxford - Ohoka Community Board update with Thomas Robson
Hi again folks.
The Community Board is back into the swing of things, after a break in December. Our last meeting was well attended with a number of residents coming along to express their concerns about the Burnt Hill Dam proposal, the Canterbury Landscapes resource consent renewal, and the use of motorbikes on the cycle paths in West Eyreton.
Also at the meeting, the Community Board received a report regarding a number of speed reduction measures proposed for Main Street in Oxford, and safety improvements for the Eyre River bridge. The Community Board approved these proposals.
The Woodstock Quarries Landfill proposal is still before the Environment Court and the Community Board will provide an update via our facebook page as soon as we get one.
We would also like to remind everyone that the Community Board has a discretionary grant available to Community Groups wanting to undertake worthwhile projects in the Community. You can find out more information about this on the Waimakariri District Council website.
The Community Board will have a visible presence at the Swannanoa Country Fair on March 1st, and at the Oxford A & P Show on April 11. This is an opportunity for you to come along and talk to us about any issues or concerns you may have.
If you can’t catch up with us at these events you can always attend our public forum at the beginning of each of our monthly meetings.
To keep up to date with what the Community Board are doing please follow our Facebook page – Oxford Ohoka Community Board.
Our next meeting is at 6.30pm Wednesday March 4th at the Mandeville Sports Club.
Thomas Robson
Deputy Chair Oxford Ohoka Community Board
TOP LISTING & SELLING AGENT
Honest, Reliable with Great Communication Skills
Emma has great communication skills. Information was always forthcoming & I never once had to ask for market information. She was always on top of market analysis & happy to update information & answer all queries. Really good listener & willing to learn about the property & myself. Very honest & reliable - while giving her opinion about anything I asked, I never felt she had anything but my best interests at heart. Would definitely use Emma again & would highly recommend her to any buyer or seller. Vendor - 48 Gardiners Road, Oxford
Recipe of the month.
with Louize Juniper
SALTED COCONUT CHOCOLATE TART
With Easter fast approaching, the season of too much chocolate, I’d thought I’d add fuel to the fire!!! This is so delicious and too easy to make.
Ingredients
20cm loose bottomed tart tin
250g Gingernut biscuits
70g butter
2 x 400g tins Coconut Cream (chill the tins)
350g Dark chocolate (70%+ Cocoa)
2tsp Vanilla extract
Pinch salt
Sea Salt Flakes for Garnish
Method
• Spray oil the tart tin base and line base with Baking Paper
• Crumb gingernut biscuits in the blender
• Melt butter over low heat, stir into biscuit crumbs
• Press them well into the base and up the side of the tin
• Chill in refrigerator while you make the ganache
• Break the chocolate into a heat proof bowl, place over a saucepan of simmering water.
• Open the cans of coconut cream, spoon out the solidified coconut solids, you need 370g approx. then add in 40g of the thin coconut milk.
• Pour on to the chocolate, add vanilla and salt.
• Leave to melt and stir to combine to make a glossy chocolate sauce.
• Takes about 8 mins
• Once all glossy and smooth pour into biscuit lined tart tin and chill for at least 4hrs or overnight.
• To serve, remove from tin and sprinkle with sea salt flakes
Enjoy!
North Canterbury Wearable Arts show
Saturday 12 September 2026
Planning this year’s North Canterbury Wearable Arts show on Saturday 12 September is well underway. Entries are open to adults and students from anywhere around New Zealand. This is proving to be a fun and supportive platform for first time creators as well as those just enjoying showcasing their creative skills. So, “give it a go”. Register with the website - www.NCWA.NZ for inspiration and information on this year’s show.
2026 Categories are:
Years 1-6 Singing in the Rain
Design a raincoat with themed accessories (umbrella, gumboots, large rain hat)
Years 7 & 8 Open or Post Apocalyptic Fashion - Survival gear meets fashion
Years 9-13 Open or Cyber Organics - Fusion of technology and biology
ADULTS: * Open
* Cosmic Couture
* Bewindering Bras
If you require further information please email northcanterburywearablearts@gmail.com
Do you have anxiety about having Dental treatment?
Would you benefit from having the treatment you need while you are semi-asleep?
Intravenous sedation is a technique using your vein in your arm or hand, to give you a sedative to calm and relax you.
You will feel quite sleepy and the time passes very quickly. You will be vaguely aware that you are having your teeth treated as well as being very relaxed and comfortable. You will not have a clear memory of the time you are sedated and some people cannot remember going home very well. You must have someone to take you home and stay with you for the rest of the day. When you arrive home you need to rest and probably sleep for a few hours. You cannot drive until the next day.
Some people worry that they will say things that they would not normally say, this doesn’t happen although some people repeat a question a few times.
If you are in good health and this seems a good option for you, let us know and make an appointment for assessment. We wish to make the treatment you need as easy as possible for you to achieve.
Te Kura o Te Poho Rakahua Oxford Area School
School is about opportunities — opportunities to learn both inside and outside the classroom. It is a place where young people develop academic, practical, social and emotional skills that help set them up for future success. We are proud of the wide range of opportunities we are able to offer our ākonga/students, and of the strong partnerships we have with our community that help make these possible.
It was delightful to see such a wonderful turnout of parents and whānau at our Academic Assembly last Monday, where we celebrated the success of the 2025 NCEA examinations.
We were thrilled to present 9 Excellence and 22 Merit endorsements — a fantastic achievement.
Our community support has also been evident in so many other ways. Parents supported our Year 11–13 students as they marshalled at the Coast to Coast event last week. Community facilitators worked alongside our Year 12 and 13 students as they took part in the Loves Me Not, Healthy Relationships programme. Many whānau also came along to cheer on our Year 4–13 students at the Swimming Sports.
Thank you for this valued and ongoing support.
One of our strategic goals is to Grow together through deepening quality learning partnerships with our community. We look forward to continuing to strengthen these relationships as we work in partnership to nurture, challenge and support every child in our community.
Lesley Inch
Oxford Area School
Oxford Area Swimming SchoolA Fantastic Day in the Pool!
The team at Oxford Area Swimming School were delighted that the bad weather finally cleared and our postponed swimming day turned into a beautiful one. It was the perfect condition for racing!
A huge congratulations to all our students who gave their very best and truly made the day count. Everyone worked incredibly hard, and it was wonderful to see a few nerves on the sidelines too — it shows how much the children cared and how invested they were.
That competitive spirit really came alive, and it was great to see students stepping up and embracing the challenge.
ABM Students Conquer the Elements at Coast to Coast
While elite athletes were testing their limits across the South Island, the Year 11 and 13 ABM classes were busy proving they have the grit and logistical prowess to match.
This month, students successfully completed their first stage of community service at the internationally renowned Coast to Coast Multisport World Championships.
Stationed at the pivotal Klondyke Corner, the teams were responsible for transforming a rugged stretch of Arthur’s Pass into a world-class transition hub.
The Year 11 ABM crew took the lead during the initial two-day setup. Their mission was high-stakes and physically demanding, staking and tying kilometers of orange ribbon to define camping zones, strategically shifting eventing gates and sponsor banners to ensure maximum visibility for the global TV cameras, and constructing the athletes' finishing chute and organizing the sprawling car park.
As the race began, the Year 13s took the baton…..and a lot of rainwater. On Friday the 13th, the class donned raincoats and ponchos to battle severe weather conditions while marshalling.
In what became a masterclass in "mudslinging," the students marshalled a relentless stream of cars, campervans, and caravans through the sludge. Despite the downpour, the team maintained their enthusiasm, ensuring every support crew was in position for their athletes.
By Saturday, the clouds parted just in time for the World Championship one-day event. The pace reached a fever pitch as over 3,000 athletes and support crew members flooded through Klondyke Corner.
The transition from "muddy slog" to "high-speed logistics" was seamless. Vehicles arrived thick and fast, requiring the Year 13s to manage traffic with precision to ensure athletes could transition without delay.
Tumuaki | Acting Principal Te Kura o Te Poho Rakahua
"Never Packed Up So Efficiently" The hard work did not go unnoticed. Lead Marshall Gavin Mason was full of praise for the students’ resilience and professional attitude.
"I have never seen the site packed up so efficiently," Mason remarked. "To meet the strict 2:15 pm deadline on Saturday after an event of this scale is a massive achievement. I was super impressed with their ability to set out and pack down under pressure."
Both year groups walked away with more than just tired legs; they demonstrated the leadership and hard work that the ABM program is known for. Congratulations to all involved for representing the school on the world stage!
Academic Assembly
On Monday the 16th of February, we celebrated our 2025 Y11-13 students who earned a merit or excellence endorsement in their NCEA examinations. We had a wonderful turnout of proud parents and whānau to support their young people earn their accolades. It was fitting to hear from Amy Riach, a past Head Student of OAS, sharing her pathways and opportunities since leaving school. Amy's advice was to take your opportunities, even if they seem outside your comfort zone. You just never know what doors they may open for you. In Amy's case she ended up in Jakarta attending the ACICIS Journalism Practicum after winning a Scholarship from the Asia New Zealand Foundation.
Congratulations to the following students:
Level 1 Endorsed with Merit:
Daemarr Abalos; April Chun; Asher Gonzales; Ella Keats; Talan Lovatt; Sophie Meier; Phoebe Minchin; Elisha Ricketts; Elizabeth Shore; Jorja Tizzard
Level 1 Endorsed with Excellence:
Lill Oakes; Nathaniel Sillars; Kyron East
Level 2 Endorsed with Merit:
Lillia Beer; Zara Chittenden; Liz Eginton Abbott; George Joyner; Hannah Mullis; Maia Regan; Charlotte Shelley
Level 2 Endorsed with Excellence:
Nicholas McKinney; Scarlett Hart; Alice McLauchlan
Level 3 Endorsed with Merit:
Kaiah Buckman; Devon Cross; Harrison Griffiths; Daniel Lovatt; Matthew Rose
Level 3 Endorsed with Excellence:
Gabriel Austin; Alyssa East; Sophie Minchin
House Competition
Our House competition is in full swing - Already this year has been jam-packed full of house spirit and activities, starting with a leadership camp two weekends ago. 18 house leaders, along with 3 staff, spent time up at Orohaki Education Centre (formerly known as Birch Hill Lodge) where we set out our vision for 2026 and what the house comp could look like. We created chants, planned our house week activities, challenged each other with games and bonded over delicious food (thanks to Mr Hines). Mayor Dan Gordon joined us as a guest speaker on leadership and teamwork and the students took the opportunity to ask questions and learn from his years of service for our local government.
In the first week of school, we had our Annual House Day, where the houses compete in chants, relays, and best-dressed to try to take home as many house points as they can. The day ended with an EPIC carnival, where students had a variety of choices from mechanical bulls and bouncy castles to trying out a fire truck water hose; from face paint, dunk tanks, bikes and photo booths, we had it all! It was a great success and the students (and staff) loved the day. A big shout out to all the staff, community members and helpers involved
Oxford: A Launch Pad for Landscape and Light
by Diana Jamieson
Step back from one of Phil Hanson’s oil paintings and the image suddenly sharpens into life. Towering peaks, shimmering water and the unmistakable clarity of New Zealand light. Like his paintings, Phil’s own path has been shaped by changing landscapes and a willingness to explore something new.
Growing up in South Africa, Phil’s first creative outlet wasn’t painting landscapes but building model aeroplanes, finishing them in true-to-life paint patterns and sketching them in detail.
At just ten years old, he won a prize at an Art Olympiad, and around the same time found himself mesmerised by a beautifully detailed seascape print hanging in his family lounge. “I couldn’t believe someone could produce that level of detail with the touch of their hand. I wanted to capture things the same way,” he recalls.
High school art classes knocked his artistic interest somewhat due to a strict curriculum and little room for self-expression. It wasn’t until his mid-20s that Phil started putting pencil and paint to paper again, including during quiet times while working with his wife, Liesel, at a tourist game reserve in Zululand.
It was there he sold his first piece of art. A British tourist spotted his unfinished elephant sketch and insisted on buying it on the spot. The moment was pivotal. It showed Phil his work was appreciated by others and fuelled his enthusiasm to keep going.
As violence and crime escalated in Johannesburg, with two young toddlers to consider, Phil and Liesel began looking for new horizons. Encouraged by friends already in New Zealand, and after a quick exploratory visit, they packed up their lives and made the move to Auckland in search of a safer future.
During this time, his artwork also shifted, progressing from pencil and ink sketching to dabbling in acrylics, and eventually graduating to oil painting. Phil, a self-taught artist, describes oils as a “classic medium” offering strong colour intensity and depth. After early experiments and a few self-confessed disasters, he began to find his rhythm. “I love how, up close, an oil painting can just look like varied blotches and splashes of colour, but when you stand back, the image suddenly appears.”
In 2022 the family moved to Oxford, building a spacious new home surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, aptly named “Lux Divina”, meaning “the light divine”.
When asked why Oxford, Phil answers with an easy smile. “The neat little rural community appealed, and my ability to work my day job from home meant we weren’t restricted to city living. From an artistic point of view, Oxford is also the ideal launch pad to access both the back country and popular tourist areas. We absolutely love it here.”
Drawn to producing photo-realistic landscapes, most of Phil’s works are places he has visited and photographed himself, enabling him to add personal detail and emotion to each scene. He’s not shy of tackling large-scale, technical challenges, including an impressive 1.30m x 2m oil of Mount Sefton and Mueller Lake.
After hosting a private viewing of the finished artwork with friends, the painting was carefully packaged and shipped north to Black Door Gallery in Auckland, where it quickly sold to a Californian visitor as a memento of their New Zealand holiday.
Where does one possibly start on a painting of this size? Phil will often use pencil or a diluted paint wash to mark key features on the blank canvas, setting scale and proportions, before building up layers from there. Most paintings typically take around 20-30 hours to complete, while the big pieces can be between 50–60 hours.
Everything from flamenco to pop music, even audiobooks, provides the backdrop to the soft scuff of paint in his brightly lit studio.
“Once I start, I’m straight into it. I’m generally always in the mood to paint.”
Phil also undertakes commissions, with an interesting story springing to mind. A client had sent photos of a Lake Tekapo landscape scene, but the vibrant turquoise waters were a complete mystery to Phil, who had not, at that time, ventured so far south.
Struggling to believe it was real but determined to honour his client’s request, he took a flying visit to the southern lakes where he realised the magical colouring was indeed natural – no colour enhancement or photography filter needed!
“I have always had a fascination with water and light. There’s something very special about the light in the South Island, and not many of my paintings don’t feature water,” he laughs.
To promote his original works and limited-edition signed prints, Phil maintains a popular Facebook page, Phil Hanson Art.
He exhibits at Black Door Gallery in Auckland and The Garage in Kimbell, has participated in Open Studios events run by Arts Canterbury, and contributes to fundraising auctions.
Phil plans to start work soon on a collection of Canterbury backcountry gravel road scenes which he hopes to exhibit locally later in 2026. While painting might currently be a side pursuit, in time, he would love to see his creative expression become his full-time profession.
“The most rewarding aspect of my work is seeing the connection people have with the scenes.
Art can create strong emotions. Creating an image that is recognisable and resonates with viewers is what I love.”
In Oxford, surrounded by the landscapes that inspire him daily, that connection continues to grow.
Healthy Relationship Pop Up Event
by Scarlett Hart
The Healthy Relationships Event held at Oxford Area School last month has been hailed a success, drawing a strong turnout from students and members of the wider community.
The event, organised by a group of senior students in partnership with Alyssa Bright from the Waimakariri Council and the Oxford Community Trust, was aimed at Year 12–13 students aged 16–18. It focused on helping young people recognise the warning signs of unhealthy relationships while promoting positive communication, respect, and clear boundaries.
Building on the earlier Loves Me Not programme, which addresses relationship violence awareness, students wanted this follow-up event to take a more uplifting and interactive approach. Their goal was to reinforce important messages in a way that felt engaging, hopeful, and empowering.
One of the highlights of the day was a custom-made prize wheel, which students spun to determine which flavour of ice cream they would receive. The odds of each flavour reflected domestic violence statistics in New Zealand, prompting important conversations about how common unhealthy relationship behaviours can be. Alongside the wheel were spot prizes and a range of fun, hands-on activities designed to spark discussion about what healthy relationships look like — not only in romantic contexts, but in friendships and everyday interactions.
Students were also given information cards listing support agencies and services available throughout the Waimakariri District and beyond, ensuring anyone facing challenges in their own relationships knows where to seek help.
With strong support from the school and community, organisers are hopeful the Healthy Relationships Event will become a lasting tradition at Oxford Area School.
Flavio Villani Presents
MEMORIA: ECHOES
AND TRANSFORMATIONS
Bach-Busoni - Chaconne in D minor
In Memoriam Suite
Brahms - Rhapsody Op.79 n.1
Brahms - Intermezzi Op.117
Cesar Franck - Prelude, Choral et Fugue
Wednesday 4 March 7:30pm
Book Online at Humanitix
Chamber Gallery Rangiora
Mayoral Update with Dan Gordon
Over the past few weeks I’ve enjoyed spending time in Oxford, listening, learning and advocating for our community.
Many of you know how important Oxford Hospital is to our district. I have been working hard to get clearer answers about its future, and next month I will be joining a workshop with key community stakeholders and staff from Health NZ to discuss the way forward. Our hospital matters not only for the services it provides, but for the sense of security it gives local families. I remain committed to making sure our community’s voice is heard clearly in those conversations.
I also had the privilege of attending a Healthy Relationships Pop-Up Event organised by Year 13 students at Oxford Area School. I was incredibly impressed by the leadership shown by these young people and their teachers. Empowering youth voice is vital. When young people are confident to stand up, raise awareness and talk openly about healthy and unhealthy relationship behaviours within their families and community, that creates real change. Well done to all involved.
I also recently attended and spoke at the opening of the exhibition of Philip Trusttum, ONZM, at Oxford Gallery. I co-founded the Oxford Gallery with Brent Firkin in 2010 and chaired the board for the best part of its first decade. We identified Philip as an obvious patron of the gallery since it was established.
Philip has made a remarkable impact - not only through his own art but in shaping regional and national conversations around art.
He has encouraged countless artists here in Canterbury and Waimakariri to pursue their own visions, generously sharing his experience and wisdom along the way. Over the years, Philip has been an unfailing supporter of Oxford Gallery and it’s wonderful to see his current exhibition showcased there. Drawings from Waituna, is a celebration of everyday rural life. I encourage you all to get along and see it.
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.
Funded by Parlimentary Services and authorised by Matt Doocey, Level 1 Conway Lane, Rangiora
Ensuring access to timely, quality health care is important to me as local MP.
Recently I met with Mark Brown, Board Chair of Oxford Community Health Centre at their new site in Weld Street to hear about their plans for a new medical centre in the town.
I was really impressed by the multiphase development planned to build a new GP practice, co-locate other health services and expand outpatient clinics.
Following the meeting I’ve asked HNZ to meet with Oxford Community Health Centre to discuss whether a new fit for purpose facility for hospital level care can be included in their development plan.
We have seen with the Rangiora After Hours facility currently being built there is potential for private providers to build new facilities with no cost to taxpayer and ratepayer in return for a long-term contract to deliver health services.
I was also impressed by senior students at Oxford Area School for taking the initiative to talk about what makes a healthy relationship following a visit to the school last month.
A group of Year 13 students were behind the Healthy Relationships pop-up event. I admired their passion for raising awareness amongst their peers, discussing what defines both a healthy and an unhealthy relationship.
The youth voice is particularly important when it comes to the subject of healthy relationships, as they are the ones embarking on relationships with one another, often for the first time.
It was really good to hear the organisers talk about the pitfalls of navigating relationships nowadays, and to hear of the support they value from their peers when things go wrong.
Well done to Oxford Area School students for organising such a fantastic event.
Matt Doocey MP for Waimakariri
Rangiora Office Level 1, Conway Building, 188 High Street 03 310 7468 waimakariri@parliament.govt.nz
Kaiapoi Office 137 Williams Street, Kaiapoi 03 327 0514 kaiapoi@parliament.govt.nz
Funded by the Parliamentary Service. Authorised by M Doocey, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.
Crusher Dust
Arena and Fill Sand
Arena and Fill San
M4 - 40
Screened Soil
Screened Soil
Dean Hurley 027 333 7140
QUARRY SUPPLIES
QUARRY SUPPLIES
WINCHUTOWING
From the Presidents Desk with
Oxford Club President Kyle Scott
HI there,
Welcome to the March edition of from the President’s Desk.
Summer is drawing to a close, and the predominately wet weather since December has certainly dampened outdoor activities. Spare a thought for our local cropping farmers who have had issues harvesting their grain crops because of the high moisture content.
It is pleasing to see a number of young members enjoying the privileges and facilities at the Oxford club. It maybe timely to remind all our members and intending members that the Club has rules about behaviour for many practical and legal reasons.
The Oxford Club prides itself on having a welcoming and friendly environment at all times. Our Club has a duty to uphold standards of reasonable behaviour and conduct. We also have a duty to protect our members and staff from unreasonable anti-social behaviour. Our yellow Club rule book and constitution is available to all members of the Oxford Club, and details offences and penalties for bad behaviour at the Club.
Any member who does behave badly eg: abusive, intoxicated, creates a disturbance, fighting etc maybe liable for a period of suspension, expulsion or any other penalty the disciplinary committee may consider applicable.
We are lucky to have a community Club/Hub in Oxford which has served Oxford and district since 1887. Rules that set standards re: behaviour and conduct help ensure that the Clubs reputation remains second to none in our wider community.
Our popular membership draw goes up for grabs every Saturday night, normally as advertised between 6.30pm and 7.30pm.
Recently a lucky member who was holding an 80th birthday celebration at the Club won the draw on his birthday night.
The member won $800 which goes well with being 80 years young. Also, on Saturday nights we have our super large meat raffles starting at 6pm, still only $2 per ticket. We think that they are the best around and give great value for money. Club raffles also run on Wednesday night with our Sections running the Friday night raffles – come on down and give them your support.
As always keep up to date with what’s coming up in our weekly email blast, its packed full of what’s happening at your club.
If we don’t have your email drop it into the bar and start receiving all the news in our email blast.
Well in closing as always, we hope to see you all very soon at your Club, The Oxford Club where we bring people together.
Look forward to chatting to you all,
The Oxford Club – Your Community Hub – Bringing People Together!
Kyle Scott | Oxford Club President
WORLD DAY OF PRAYER
Friday 6 March 2026
Will be held at the Catholic Church Main Street,Oxford 10:00am
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!
WAIMAK
KID’S OSCAR
We are looking for enthusiastic youth helpers for our holiday programme. This is great for young people looking to get some work experience for their CV and future jobs. Helpers need to be 15 years of age.
This involves helping children at our holiday programme have a fun time doing crafts, games and cooking.
If you are interested please get in touch with Tori on 027 473 5607
OxBox Youth Events
Tori is looking for some youth who would be interested in working with her to plan and execute events, and to bring their youth perspective to all of the youth events.
If you would like to be part of OxBox Youth please contact Tori on 027 473 5607
• 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 Cheryl Simes Kiwilaw lawyer/director
Thank you to our fab 4 funders
• Rata Foundation • COGS
• Lottery Foundation
• Waimakariri District Council
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.
Emergency Services update
Oxford St John
with Mel Brooker
February has been a month of extremely low volume of callouts for us in Oxford. With only 5 call outs being responded to, there have been more callouts in the Oxford district, but we haven’t had volunteers in a position to respond. We had a good day out mixing with our community at Wheels with Wings which is a fantastic day out, thank you to Dave and his helpers for putting on such a great day. We have the Oxford A&P show coming up on the 11th of April where we hope to be present to catch up again.
Two of our most common call outs we attend from Oxford would be MVA’s and falls, the following is a paragraph of out of our service data from 2025.
It was an exceptionally demanding year for our frontline. New national data shows there were 706,194 emergency 111 calls for an ambulance last year, an increase of nearly 30 percent over five years, while the emergency ambulance service logged 551,399 incidents, up 17 percent since 2020. Pressure was most acute over winter, with August recording the highest monthly call volume ever at 63,888 emergency calls.
Leading reasons for calling an ambulance remained consistent, including referrals from health practitioners, breathing problems, chest pain, falls and loss of consciousness. Several largely preventable incident types increased sharply, with drowning and diving incidents up 32 percent to 582, animal bites and attacks rising almost 19 percent to 1,212, and falls increasing eight percent to 52,559 incidents.
Falls are now one of the single largest drivers of ambulance demand. Falls disproportionately affect older New Zealanders with nearly half of all ambulance responses having involved people aged 65 and over, underscoring the growing impact of falls-related harm on both emergency services and hospitals.
We have been lucky enough for the Waimakariri area committee to purchase an outdoor defibrillator allowing 24/7 access outside the Sheffield Pie Shop at 78 Main Street Oxford.
The Oxford St John station is not manned 24/7. If you require an ambulance, please call 111. Mel Brooker
Station volunteer leader EMT 033123516
Oxford Fire Rescue
with Chief Fire Officer Trevor Ealam
In January there were eight calls. One call was to assist the Cust Brigade at a commercial alarm activation. In our area we attended two weather related events, one to clear a tree across the road, and to a lightning strike which set fire to gorse in different areas in a property. We were assisted by the Cust Brigade to extinguish them. Two calls were to un-permitted vegetation fires during a restricted fire season, two to commercial alarm activations, one was faulty alarm, and the other the Brigade could not find a reason for the activation, and one small rubbish fire with the owner in attendance during an open fire season where no action was required by the brigade.
This months message is; We are now in an open fire season which permits are not required to burn in the rural area. If you are unsure about the fire season status go to the FENZ web site, www.checkitsalright.nz or alternatively ring South Com on 033410266. Remember to check on the predicted forecast for wind conditions, let your neighbours know of your intended burn, and have water available.
Alatalo
Well the kids have been at school a month already, and time keeps moving. Before we know it, the days will be getting cooler and shorter.
Road safety is a big part of our role, but it is not just up to me, it’s everyone’s responsibility. If your child has recently passed their driving test and are driving to school, please remind them that they should not be giving their friends a ride to school or down to the local shop.
It’s great to see and hear all the chatter on Facebook letting our community know who and what to keep an eye out for, and that it is getting reported through the right channels as well. But just a reminder for those who aren’t sure on how to report, in an emergency, call 111. If it’s already happening and there is no danger, report through 105 via the phone or the internet, and if you don’t want to be known but feel we need to know, Crimestoppers is also a great way of reporting.
One last thing, with the Roar fast approaching there have been increased reports of both hunting and poaching in the area. Be safe out there and make yourself aware of the cardinal hunting rules. We all want to get back safe and sound to our loved ones. You never know who you might meet out there.
Last but not least, a big should out to the seniors at Oxford Area School, for the effort that they put in with the “Love me not program” and Health Relationships Pop Up. If there are any questions of concerns arising from the program please to not hesitate to get in touch. Thank you for your time, until next month, be safe. Feel safe.
Oxford Police with Mitch
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