the
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Inside October 2026
A RT H U R B U R K E M O T O R C Y C L E S - C F M O T O D E A L E R
N O RT H C A N T E R B U RY W E A R A B L E A RT S H O W W O W S A G A I N OXFORD NETBALL CLUB SEASON WRAPUP
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Update on rural health services planning for Oxford Health New Zealand continues to work with the Oxford community to plan future rural health services for Oxford and surrounding areas. Since the community workshop in March and public engagement in April, we have: • Heard from community members, local health providers and others with an interest in Oxford’s future health services. • Considered feedback from the Oxford Advisory Group and previous community engagement. This feedback, alongside information about population growth, health service use and people’s experiences of local healthcare services, helps us to better understand the health needs of the Oxford community now and in the future. We have also used information gathered through the patient journey workshop, which explored people’s experiences of using local health services. This work is helping identify opportunities to strengthen local services and improve access to care. What’s next? The information gathered will help shape a draft Rural Community Health Service Plan for rural Canterbury communities. The draft plan will be reviewed by Health NZ and then shared with the Oxford community for feedback in November 2026. We remain on track to complete the plan by December 2026.
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Oxford Hospital update Oxford Hospital continues to provide a range of services and accepts referrals for: • Acute and planned respite care. • End-of-life care. • Short-term restorative care for patients transitioning from acute hospitals. • Hospital-level aged residential care for people awaiting a permanent care placement. Hospital occupancy continues to be carefully managed, with each person’s needs assessed to ensure they receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time. Health NZ has also completed a range of maintenance and other improvements at the hospital over recent months, including: • Meeting all compliance, preventative maintenance, inspection and reporting requirements. • Receiving a Building Warrant of Fitness from the Council on 1 June 2026. • Introducing an improved maintenance process to ensure property requests are logged, assigned and completed efficiently. • Strengthening the way building and property issues are identified and managed to support future planning. • Continuing maintenance and improvement work across the site, with contractors currently undertaking further upgrades. Health NZ remains committed to working alongside the Oxford community to support sustainable, accessible rural health services for the future.
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The Malvern Farmers Vet Club Charitable Trust (MFVCCT) would like to invite individuals, community groups and organisations to apply for grants from our organisation. The MFVCCT purpose is to advance the welfare of our rural community and the individuals connected to the community. This involves distributing grants that meet the following criteria: • The strengthening of charitable community and voluntary organisations involved in the relief of poverty. • The advancement of education. • The provision of financial support for specific community projects that advance charitable purposes. • The strengthening of charitable community and voluntary organisations. • The provision of financial and other support in anticipation of or in response to emergencies or adverse events. • The enhancement and retention of essential services that advance charitable purposes.
To apply for grants or for more information on the application process please visit: mfvc.org.nz. For any enquiries please email mfvcinfo@gmail.com. All applications to be received by the 31st of October 2026.
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OXFORD A&P SHOWGROUNDS
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MEDICATIONS OVER THE CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR PERIOD
It might feel early, but the Christmas countdown is already underway. We encourage you to check your medications now to ensure you have enough to last through the Christmas and New Year break. We can get very busy in the week leading up to Christmas, so please don’t leave it to the last minute. You can order your repeat prescriptions through the patient portal. If you need to see a provider, we recommend booking your appointment as soon as possible to avoid delays.
MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK
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Mental Health Awareness Week is taking place from 12-18 October 2026. This year's theme,"Belonging Matters", highlights the importance of feeling connected to others. A sense of belonging is a fundamental part of wellbeing and plays an important role in supporting good mental health. Research shows that a strong sense of belonging is closely linked to better mental health outcomes. Supportive relationships, connection to community, and trust in others all contribute to improved wellbeing and overall health. However, for many people, maintaining these social connections is becoming increasingly challenging. There are many helpful resources available through the Mental Health Foundation website (mentalhealth.org.nz) and the official Mental Health Awareness Week website (mhaw.nz), including ideas and activities to support wellbeing and strengthen connections within our communities.
WE ARE WELCOMING NEW PATIENTS
We are currently accepting new patient enrolments from Oxford and the surrounding areas. If you, a family member, or someone you know is looking for a local GP, we would be pleased to welcome you as a new patient. To request an enrolment pack or learn more about the enrolment process, please contact Reception on 03 312 4195 or email admin@ochc.co.nz.
After Hours Care Ka Ora Telecare: 5.00pm-8.30am weekdays and 24 hours on weekends and public holidays. Call 0800 252 672 or visit kaora.co.nz Practice Plus: From 8.30am, seven days a week, including evenings, weekends and public holidays
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North Canterbury Wearable Arts show wows again photos by Kelly Pearce Another outstanding night of North Canterbury Wearable Arts, hosted by Oxford Area School, was held in Rangiora on Saturday 12 September.
Dry the Dishes – Fill the Pool!! The Cust Community Pool has been a cornerstone of our rural community for more than 70 years — a place where generations of local kids have learned to swim, families have gathered on hot summer days, and the school has run its essential water‑safety programmes.
With 65 entries from within the Canterbury area and as far away as Kaikoura and Timaru, there was no shortage of colour, variety and awe-inspiring costumes to wow the 400 strong audience. A new category this year, Bewildering Bras, showcased some very imaginative and beautiful creations. North Canterbury School of dance opened the show with an energetic dance routine from their Intermediate Jazz Troupe. Then it was straight into the student categories. So much colour and creative imagination on display. Compere, Laura Hitchon, did a wonderful job keeping the proceedings flowing throughout the night and Judges, Loretta Sloan and Vanessa-Amy Greenwood had the hardest job of working out the prize placements.
Its closure due to a major leak has been a huge loss, but the community has rallied with incredible determination.
Thank you to our major sponsors for sponsoring our prizes on the night - Enterprise North Canterbury, Mitre10 Mega North Canterbury, Waimakariri Irrigation Ltd, Halter, The Fitting Room, The Palms Mall, PaknSave Rangiora, The Warehouse Rangiora and Oxford Ag. Also, the many other businesses who helped make the night a success. A new, special prize, kindly sponsored by Mitre10 Mega North Canterbury, "Building Confidence" was awarded to the "Scale the Heights" entry by student designers Harper Bristowe, Amelia Henley, Juliet Neil and Alice Thomson.
They’re available now through the pool’s website: custpool.co.nz.
Supreme Student Award went to Sunken Curiosity - by Arlia Hunt, Ella Rowe and Elsie Warwick. Adult Supreme Award was awarded to Fiona Pierce with her “Denim Tides” For more information, please visit the North Canterbury Wearable Arts website - www.ncwa.nz or email northcanterburywearablearts@gmail. com.
Through grants, donations, pub quizzes, raffles, silent auctions, and even clearing hedge trimmings for neighbours, we’ve already raised approximately $75,000 toward the repair goal. This effort shows just how deeply the pool is woven into the identity and history of Cust. To finish the repairs and reopen the pool by November, we still need to raise another $30,000 — and that’s where our organic tea towel fundraiser comes in. We need to sell 1,000 Cust Community Pool tea towels, with every purchase directly supporting the rebuild.
These tea towels aren’t just practical; they’re a symbol of community pride and a simple way for anyone to contribute to saving a vital local asset. Alongside the tea towel campaign, we’re also seeking corporate sponsors who may wish to purchase an advertising sign within the pool complex. This is a chance for local businesses to support a long‑standing community facility while gaining meaningful visibility once the pool reopens. With strong community backing and committed partners, we can restore the Cust Community Pool for future generations.
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. h t n o m e h t f o e p i c Re
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N A C H O S T U F F E D P E P P E R J A C K- ' O - L A N T E R N S Ingredients 6 large orange peppers 250g minced beef 250g minced pork 1 onion chopped 2 cloves garlic ½ chilli chopped 1tbsp ground cumin 1tbsp smoked paprika 1tbsp sweet paprika ½ 400g tin chopped tomatoes 2 tbsp chopped jalapeños 1 400g tin black beans Grated cheese
To serve Either rice or tortilla chips Guacamole or salsa Sour cream
Method • Pre heat oven to 200oC • Prep peppers, slice off the tops, remove the core and the seeds cut Jack-‘o-lantern faces, put in a roasting tin, leave to one side to be stuffed. • For the nacho filling, use a heavy based pan, fry off chopped onions until soft, add the beef and pork mince fry off until looking browned. • Add spices and garlic, cook off for a couple of minutes and stir through, add black beans, tomatoes and jalapeños, cook for about 10 mins until most of the moisture has gone. • Stuff the peppers as full as you can, top with grated cheese, place the tops back on. • Place peppers in the roasting tin and bake for 30 mins. • Enjoy with my serving suggestions.
Have a Spooky Halloween!
Oxford Pharmacy are now stockists of
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Flower Show
Oxford District Union Church Sunday 29 November 2026 10am - 2pm Free to enter and free to come and visit. Lots of prizes and Trophy cups to win. Enter as an individual or a group Morning Tea and Plant stall.
contact Mary for the list of Categories maryvdv@xtra.co.nz or 0226218278
A&P Show season is here Find MainPower at: • Rangiora • Amberley • Kaikōura • Amuri • Cheviot • Hawarden • Oxford MainPower is delivering a new energy future for North Canterbury and Kaikōura. Through investment in our network and support for local communities, we’re committed to creating lasting value for the region.
MainPower New Zealand Limited owns and operates the electricity distribution network across North Canterbury.
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Te Kura o Te Poho Rakahua Oxford Area School Rau Whetū | Shine Together: Celebrating Our Senior Netball Success We are absolutely thrilled to celebrate the outstanding achievement of our Students recently competing in the Secondary School South Island (SISS) tournament week. The highlight of this was our Senior Netball team, who returned home as winners of the South Island Secondary School C Grade Netball Tournament! This is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship our athletes have demonstrated throughout the season. Their performance truly embodies our school values of Rau Whetū | Shine Together. From the first whistle to the final goal, our teams displayed resilience, courage, and a collaborative spirit that exemplifies what it means to be a student at Oxford Area School. Success like this is built on countless hours of training, the unwavering support of our coaching staff, and the commitment of our students to push themselves and support one another on and off the court. Our recent North Canterbury Wearable Arts was an incredible evening. The creativity, energy, and community spirit in the room were truly inspiring, making it an unforgettable night and a phenomenal success for our school. This spectacular event was a massive team effort; thank you to all those who brought it to life Thank you to all the families and community members who attended, cheered loudly, and supported the evening. We look forward to updating you on the projects this fundraiser will support. We truly couldn't have achieved this without your wonderful support.
Lesley Inch
Scooter Track The Oxford Area School PTA are absolutely thrilled to announce that we have reached our full fundraising goal for the Scooter Track! After two years of fundraising, planning, support and determination, we have finally reached the amount needed to make this community project happen! This has been a huge goal for our school, and we simply couldn’t have done it without the incredible support of our families, local businesses, organisations and wider community. Every sausage sizzle, raffle, event, donation and contribution has helped bring us one step closer. Every bit of support has made a difference. But… guess what the next step is?! WE BUILD THE SCOOTER TRACK! The Scooter Track has been something our students have wanted for a long time. It will provide a dedicated, active and safe space for our children and young people to enjoy their scooters, get outside, be active and spend time together. Two years of dreaming. Two years of fundraising. One incredible community. And now… it’s time to build! A massive THANK YOU to everyone who has helped us get here. This truly is a community achievement, and we can’t wait to celebrate the finished Scooter Track with you all. Watch this space… the wheels are about to start turning!
Tumuaki | Acting Principal Te Kura o Te Poho Rakahua Oxford Area School
SISS Indoor Smallbore Shooting Nationals
North Canterbury Wearable Arts - wow, what a show! The audience was not disappointed with the imaginative and creative designs on display from the both student and adult categories. No shortage of creativity on the boardwalk. Thank you to our major sponsors for sponsoring our prizes on the night Mitre10 Mega North Canterbury, Waimakariri Irrigation Ltd, Halter and The Fitting Room. Also, the many other businesses who helped make the night a success. We would also like to thank the our OAS Teachers and students did a fantastic job of modelling costumes for our adult entries. A huge thank you to all the backstage volunteers (PTA members, staff and extra volunteers) who helped during the rehearsal on Friday and on the Saturday evening in the changing room, in the kitchen, on the refreshments tables, ticketing, and many other little jobs that needed to be manned during the night.
Our team recently competed in the NZ Secondary Schools’ Nationals in Christchurch Over the past two terms, our team had been practising at the Pearson Park range on Monday afternoons under the watchful eye of Coach Peter Boerlage of the West Eyerton club. Peter took the team from basic target shooting on a rest to being able to wear jackets and slings. This meant they were in a position to attend their first tournament. It was my privilege to take this OAS team, the first smallbore target shooting team in 15 years, to the South Island tournament. The team consisted of Axel Le Lievre, Riley Soper and Rylan Leary. Over the weekend, Axel scored a personal best of 96 on one of his cards. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Peter and our supporters and sponsors who made it possible for our team to compete.
For more information, please visit the North Canterbury Wearable Arts website - www.ncwa.nz
SISS Equestrian Championships Congratulations to our Equestrians competing in the SISS Championships. Ethan Taylor came 3rd in Arena Eventing and 7th in Dressage Darcy Taylor had a good ride in a class of over 50.
Well done. 52 Bay Road Oxford
03 312 4197
info@oxford.school.nz
www.facebook.co
SISS Netball Champions!
Book week
Our Senior Netball Team are South Island Secondary School champions for 2026. The Senior Netball Team played and won all of their 8 games in Nelson at the South Island Secondary Schools Championships this past week. The last time Oxford Area School won this grade was 26 years ago! With many high-scoring games this week, the girls also took out the goal average trophy. We scored 355 goals with just 125 against. All 12 girls played fantastic netball throughout the week. Even battling a few injuries and health issues didn't deter this focused bunch of netballers. Winning C grade ensures we are placed in B grade for the 2027 competition in Timaru. Special thanks to our managers Lisa Hollard and Deb Baggott, for their support at the tournament this week. It was fantastic to have so many supporters from home and afar supporting OAS. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of this team.
Congratulations to our three players named as talented players. Lillia Beer, Alice McLauchlan and Phoebe Minchin.
Our recent book week was a fun-filled week with a Fairy Tale Theme. We finished the week with our wonderful Dress-Up Parade, and WOW — what a fantastic display of creativity! There were so many amazing and beautiful costumes, making it very difficult to choose our winners. Congratulations to all of our winners — you all looked spectacular! Thank you also to our wonderful teachers, who have supported Book Week throughout the week and joined in the fun by dressing up as some incredible fairy tale characters. You certainly helped bring our fairy tale world to life! Our Year 1–6 teachers deserve a special mention as our Travelling Storytellers. Throughout the week, each teacher chose a fairy tale to read and then swapped classes during Period 5, giving students the chance to hear different stories from different teachers. Thank you so much for your time, enthusiasm and support — it was very much appreciated! And, of course, a huge thank you to our parents and whānau for all your creativity and support, and for helping your children get ready to take part in our parade. The costumes were truly wonderful!
SISS Basketball wrap-up The team enjoyed a successful tournament in Dunedin. After eight games, our team had won five of them, giving them an overall placing of 7th. On the final day, the boys played against a strong Geraldine side in a quarter-final and then against Trinity College in a rematch from the night prior in a playoff for 7th and 8th. In the playoff, the team locked in, playing some excellent defence and produced some exciting basketball. All of the members contributed positively to the team over the course of the week. We would like to thank Alex McKinney for being our star referee as well as playing every game. Nicholas McKinney had an excellent tournament, finishing it as the second overall top points scorer. With the season now finished, thank you to the staff and parents who have helped make the season a success. Thanks to Quentin and Nicky Stagg for their weekly help with the team Level Endorsed with Excellence and thanks to Sonya Sillars for stepping in as2tournament manager.
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Old Oxford Friends Reunion - They came! The catch-up worked a treat with 106 attending. So appreciative and enthusiastic that another will be held next year - Sunday 19 September 2027 – put it in your diary. If you missed out, contact: Winton Dalley 029 770 2866 dalley@amuri.net Wendy Doody 027 515 8372 ian.wendy@xtra.co.nz Rod Cameron 027 503 0251 rodcameronchch@outlook.com
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Oxford Women’s Forum Mayoral Update
with
Dan Gordon
It was good to recently hear from Health New Zealand about some of the work that has being happening to plan the future of rural health services in Oxford. Since the first community meeting, which I chaired, Health New Zealand has brought together the feedback received throughout its community engagement and prepared a draft Rural Community Health Service Plan for Oxford. We have been advised by Health NZ this will come back to the community for feedback in November, and I encourage you to take the opportunity to have your say.
The Oxford Women’s Forum meets five times a year at the Oxford Club restaurant, from March to November on the first Wednesday of the month. It was formed in 1986 so we are celebrating 40 years at the November get together. We have over 40 members on our membership list, with an average of 25 at each meeting. We are open to all women for a casual night out, for a catch up with friends, and to make new ones, to have a meal and hear a speaker. Our last meeting for the year is on Wednesday 4th November 2026. We will have a Christmas meal buffet, raffles and a 40 year celebration cake. It would be great to have many old and new members come along for the evening. The more the merrier.
Local knowledge and experience are important in helping shape services that meet the needs of Oxford and the wider rural community, both now and in the future. That is why I suggested an advisory group be formed to ensure local voices help guide decisions on future services. I have a long and enjoyable history with the Oxford Farmers’ market, having been on the Council as a local Councillor when the market was first established. Our local farmers’ markets are special places for me — you’re always bound to meet someone and end up having a really good chat. Sarah and I thoroughly enjoyed going to the special 20th anniversary market that was held recently. The Oxford Transfer Station has long passed its 20th anniversary. It was built in1998 and we are considering how best to improve the site, so it meets the district’s needs over the coming decades. For Oxford, which has a mostly rural community customer base, we are looking at installing a weighbridge so we can charge by weight, and constructing concrete bunkers for scrap metal and green waste. We also want to find out whether there is support for extending the opening hours and/or having a recycling facility that is always accessible. Every council across the country is required to prepare a Waste Management and Minimisation Plan and review it every six years. We’ve gone out for consultation of our draft Plan, and we would like to hear your views. I encourage you to give your feedback by going to https://www.waimakariri.govt.nz/council/news-andinformation/2026/08/council-seeks-feedback-onwaimakariris-waste-future 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.
If you would like more information, please reach out to Sandra on 027 698 6163 or email gsjca@xtra.co.nz.
Cleo - Cleone Angela Drew Died peacefully at Christchurch Hospital on 28th August. Treasured and sorely missed by her family - Saffron, Lissa, Andy, Mica, Freya, Kim and late husband, John, also of Oxford. Wonderful mum to her dogs Merry, Toby and cats, Pitsi and Sashi. A dear and generous friend to many. A celebration of Cleo's life will be held in Oxford on 20th March 2027. Please feel free to contact Lissa for more information at tearapuna@gmail.com sixteen
Four finals. Four wins. One very proud club. by Scarlett Hart
The 2026 netball season has been one to remember for Oxford Netball Club. From our youngest players taking to the court for the first time through to our senior teams battling it out at the top grades, it has been a season packed with competition, growth, teamwork, and plenty of red and black pride. And what a way to finish! Across the club of 8 teams, four teams made finals, and all four came away with the win! For a small club, this is a massive achievement and a fantastic reflection of the commitment shown by our players, coaches, managers and supporters throughout the season. Oxford 1 – Premier Grade 58–50 vs Revelation A Oxford 2 – Senior Reserve Grade 47–36 vs Ohoka 3 Oxford 3 – 2nd Grade 31–24 vs Central 2 Oxford FF2 – Primary B 17–12 vs Ashley FF2
And there is even more to look forward to in 2027! Players will have the chance to represent Oxford Netball off the court too, with new club hoodies available next season.
The 2026 season has given Oxford Netball plenty to celebrate, and now the countdown to 2027 begins. Whatever next season brings, one thing is certain — the red and black will be back on court, ready to give it everything!
The hoodies have been made possible thanks to the generous support of our fantastic local sponsors: Miln Contracting • Waghorn Builders • Bayphil Earthworks • Aceomatics Transmission Services • Oxford Ag • Ant's Painting • Elmwood Ag Ltd. We are incredibly grateful for the support of these local businesses. Their backing helps strengthen netball in our community and makes opportunities like the new club hoodies possible. And just like that, another season is in the books. Four finals. Four wins. Countless memories. One club.
There were some big performances across the finals, but just as important was the incredible support surrounding each team. Look around the sideline on finals day and there was no mistaking the sea of red and black in the crowd. Throughout the season friends, family and supporters turned up in force, cheering every intercept, goal and turnover. The noise from the sideline was a reminder that netball is about more than what happens between the four lines. That support became the eighth player on court giving teams an extra push when they needed it the most. While the four finals victories were a standout achievement, the teams that didn’t make it through to a final still had plenty to be proud of. Across all eight teams, players showed commitment, improvement and determination throughout the season, with many teams producing strong performances and close games along the way. Every team contributed to what was a successful 2026 season for Oxford Netball Club. Week after week, players turned up to training and games ready to learn, improve and challenge themselves. Skills developed and teams became stronger as the season progressed. Along the way, friendships were made and plenty of memories were created both on and off the court. From the youngest players learning the fundamentals of the game to our senior teams competing at a high level, every player played their part in making 2026 such a successful season. None of it would happen without the people behind the scenes. A huge thank you goes to the coaches, managers, volunteers, families and supporters who gave up their time throughout the season. Your commitment keeps Oxford Netball moving forward and gives our players the opportunity to get out there and do what they love.
Why shouldn’t I leave that broken tooth? A broken tooth that leads to infection in your mouth can be silent for months or years with no pain. Then without warning, flare up when you least expect as infection doesn’t go away on its own. Infections in your mouth circulate bacteria via the blood stream to other parts of your body including sites of surgery. This delays healing and causes complications. So, there are good reasons not to leave it especially if you could need the following: A joint replacement. Hip and knee problems are common, if you do need a joint replacement, surgeons usually ask for dental clearance first. This means that a dentist confirms there’s no infection in your teeth, gums or jawbone. Surgery is delayed until any infection is sorted. Heart conditions and devices. Some heart procedures, including pacemakers and heart valve replacements also call for a dental pass before surgery. Thinking about an implant? If you have a tooth that needs replacement with an implant rather than a denture, due to an accident , ACC requires a five-year dental history before it will approve one. Regular care now protects your options later especially as implants are $6-7k and ACC fund most of this cost once approved. Accidents often involve front teeth, when reviewing the case for an implant ACC will look at the health of the entire mouth and the care you gave it 5 years prior to the accident. A thorough check today can save you pain, delays, more treatment and costs down the track.
Dr Yvonne Vannoort 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
Welcome to the October edition of From the President’s Desk.
M 027 242 3211 E Lorinda@thebroker.co.nz
Thank you to all those members of the Oxford Club who have renewed their Club Membership for the new financial year.
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As I write, our membership numbers are growing with many younger members joining and a very pleasing increase in female members also. The Oxford Club is a place where members and guests come to meet, talk and belong. In today’s world where so much social interaction now happens through a screen, it is great to walk into the Oxford Club and find people actually talking to each other. The Oxford Club is a true country club, with a community feel, not simply a place to have a drink. It is a Social Club, a community meeting place, entertainment venue and home to a wide variety of activities. Our Club Sections include Cards, Darts, Pool, Classic vehicles, Clay bird shooting, Racing, Travel Indoor and Outdoor Bowls, Fishing, Travel, Golf and Vintage Ploughing. For some people particularly those who may live alone, have recently retired or have moved into the district the Club is a great way to meet new people, interact and socialise. Our challenge as a Club is keeping the door open for the next generation and remaining relevant to them. The old Working Mens Club image – somewhere exclusively for older men, no longer reflects the Oxford Club today. Our future as a Club rests with a conversation, friendship, entertainment, community involvement and a friendly welcoming atmosphere while continuing to adapt to what todays’ Oxford Community wants. So come on down to the Oxford Club, meet a friend, somebody new, celebrate a birthday, sit down and enjoy a good yarn and socialise. You will be glad that you did and we will be thrilled to welcome you. Don’t forget, as always to keep up with what’s happening at your Club, read our fabulous weekly email blast. If you are not receiving the email blast, please send us an email to info@oxfordclub.co.nz and keep up to date with all the exciting happenings at your Club As always, I look forward to seeing you at your Club – The Oxford Club – Your Social Hub since 1887 The Oxford Club – Your Community Hub – Bringing People Together!
MEET THE CANDIDATES Tuesday 20th October at the Oxford Club
7:00pm There will be time for questions Any enquiries to Dave McPherson
027 223 1870 eighteen
Kyle Scott | Oxford Club President OXFORD CLUB EST - 1887
Oxford Butchery
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Bookings essential
Cheryl Simes
Oxford Butchery Ltd
Trust
Social Services SHOPPERS BUS Tuesday 6 October - Rangiora $7 Tuesday 20 October - Rangiora $7 Bookings can be made at the Trust or by calling 03 312 3006.
Kiwilaw lawyer/director
4th Generation Family Butchers
44 Main Street - Oxford
021 701 838 https://kiwilaw.co.nz/probate
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Things got a little out of hand? Difficult Trees? Need a good snip and trim... • • • • • • • • •
Qualified Arborist, Fully Insured Locally Based
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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
GROW & TELL 2027 Food Secure North Canterbury is calling for expressions of interest for anyone who has a productive home garden or lifestyle block, market garden, educational growing space, farm, food forest or other growing space that they would be willing to open up to the public over two weeks in March 2027. The purpose is to inspire others to grow their own food. This is not a traditional garden tour and they are not looking for picture perfect spaces. Grow & Tell is about real growing spaces, real people and real stories. For more information go to https://foodsecurenc.org.nz/grow-and-tell/
Thank you to our fab 4 funders • Rata Foundation • COGS • Lottery Foundation • Waimakariri District Council
Txt/Call Alec 0275 255 044 alec@maartentrees.co.nz
Boutique Secondhand
Booksellers
Quality second hand books Book Subscriptions Gift Vouchers
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
e woodsidebookshop@gmail.com f facebook.com/woodsidebooks i woodsidebookshop
www.woodsidebooks.shop nineteen
Emergency Services update
Oxford St John
with Mel Brooker
We have had a reasonably busy few months locally with jobs attended throughout the community. To date we have responded to 150 callouts for this year. There are a lot of local events happening in our community in the coming weeks. Experience Oxford Picnic in the Park is on Sunday 11th October Oxford A&P Art Studio and Garden Trail 25th & 26th October. Oxford Big Family Day Out Sunday 1st November. We are still experiencing a bit of influenza in the community that is tending to come in waves. Sometimes this is developing into pneumonia which is requiring medical treatment to gain a full recovery. We are in the process of another recruitment intake, if you are at all interested in finding out more information please ring the station on 03 312 3516 and leave your name and number and our recruiting officer will be in touch. The Oxford station is not manned 24/7. You can phone to leave a message on 03 312 3516. In the case of an emergency please call 111 . Keep safe out there . Thank you for your continued support. Mel Brooker EMT VTL Oxford St John Station
Oxford Police
with Mitch Alatalo
I was just looking back on some previous articles and what I had to say, and I laughed a little when I said that winter was behind us, it has been a changeable spring - hot one minute, then cold and rainy the next, so be mindful and always drive to the conditions. I have been lucky and had an opportunity to get out and beat the tracks with the family. I couldn’t help but notice all of the animal signs about. I thought it would be appropriate to remind everyone about their and everyone else’s safety while out there enjoying what our beautiful district has to offer. Which brings me to firearms safety. I have received several concerning reports of projectiles being heard going overhead on rural properties and even hitting animals, this is very dangerous to say the least. Always be aware of where you are shooting, what’s behind it around it and in many circumstances, what is beyond it. We are living in an area which is changing all of the time, the bush is no longer the bush. If anyone is interested in the Oxford Community Patrol they are always looking for keen new people to join the team, make yourself known to myself or Chris and we can point you in the right direction, you are the eyes and ears of the community. Last but not least I want to thank you all we have had some really good results over the last month but it would not have come about if you the wider community were not out there being our eyes and ears, so thank you for all that you are doing in the community. Thanks again for reading. Be safe. Feel safe.
Oxford Fire Rescue
with Chief Fire Officer Trevor Ealam
In August the Brigade received six calls. Two calls were to assist St John, two vegetation fires, of which one was a suspicious fire, the other was an out of control slash/rubbish fire in north west conditions which set fire to the paddock getting very close to hedge rows. One to a two vehicle car crash where the occupants received minor injuries, and the other was to secure roofing iron in strong northerly winds where the winds destroyed a shed roof. This brings our total calls for the year to forty eight. During the month the brigade welcomed Matthew Wright as a recruit firefighter. This months message is; Once again I ask if you are planning to have a rubbish or slash fire, avoid burning in north west conditions especially when these winds are predicted, have plenty of water available. Sparks from these fires can travel a long way in the winds. Before leaving the burn make sure it is properly out.
FOR ALL EMERGENCIES DIAL 111 Obser ver Obser ver
2021
INSIDE
recipes + Summer Bounty more Great Reads Gin Range + much An exciting new
this issue
this issue
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MARCH
Mulled wine giveaway Book club | Winter | Fashion reads show + much more
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this
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ENQUIRIES info@oxfordobserver.co.nz 0800 627 378 37 www . schn urrbart d e si g n a n d p ub l i sh i n g.c o.n z twenty
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THE NEXT ISSUE - OUT NOVEMBER 2026
ADVERTISING DEADLINE |OCTOBER 20
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Large 240 litre wheelie bins Multiple Collection options Weekly - Fortnightly - 4 weekly 6 weekly - 8 weekly - Casual phone or email for a quote
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• WOF Cars and Trailers • Motorbike WOF • Vehicle Servicing & Repairs • Tyres & Punctures • Towing & Salvage • Courtesy Car available
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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
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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
What’s On
• Interior Plastering • Gib fixing • Cornice & cove • Skim coating Phone Mark 027 438 0665
EXHIBITIONS MICHAEL SOUTHERN: LOST MYTHOLOGIES
Interior RENOVATIONS ltd.
interiorrenovationsltd@gmail.com
www.bayphil.co.nz CALL BAYDON 027 405 9910
Registered Tradesman
Living Portraits Thurs 15 October – Sun 15 November 2026 Community portrait exhibiton. Everone is welcome and encouraged to participate. Entries accepted until 11 Ocober. Youth & Adult categories. oxfordgallery.org.nz/livingportraits
NICK JACOBS
Qualified Builder
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
Until Sun 11 October
Ph: 022 672 7662
UPCOMING EVENT
Email:info@njacobsconstruction.com Sheds . Renovations . Fencing . Decks & General Maintenance
YOGA FITNESS QIGONG
Oxford Classes on Wednesdays and Thursdays
Adults Stone Carving Workshop Sun 8 November 11am – 3pm $65pp oxfordgallery.org.nz/ activities
72 Main Street, Oxford | 11am–4pm Thurs–Sun 03-3121639 | oxfordgallery.org.nz Registered charity CC10601
Gain Vitality, New Energy, and a Calm mind info@taomotion.com | www.taomotion.com
Gabrielle phone 027 225 1646
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dipl. NSF , CCNM/NZSE, RMT-MNZ
p. 03 312 1452 | 021 0424 367 e. angelcats@xtra.co.nz www.angelcatscattery.co.nz
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52 Church Street, Oxford
Marina Vermaat
@angelcatscattery
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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
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
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Old Cars, Utes, 4WDs and Vans wanted for repair or dismantling
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FOR ANY ENQUIRIES CONTACT 021 275 2432 YARD 106 HAREWOOD ROAD OXFORD