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Raglan Surf Life Saving Club records busiest patrol season in NZ

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Raglan

Surf Life Saving Club has recorded the busiest patrol season of any surf life saving club in New Zealand this year, responding to 306 incidents between July 1, 2025 and March 11, 2026.

The season included 93 lifesaving rescues at Ngarunui Beach, alongside 4,655 preventative actions, 36,743 safety interventions, 62 minor first aids, 10 major first aids and 11 searches.

Due to increasing visitor numbers and demand on the beach, volunteer lifeguards patrolled seven days a week from November through to March 20.

May 24th Archbishop David will preside and preach & Youth Church cnr Bow Street & James Street Holy Communion service every Sunday at 9.30 visitors very welcome Contact person : Hazel 0221065990

The club says the growing popularity of Raglan and its reputation as a surf destination continues to increase pressure on resources, equipment and volunteer patrol numbers.

Rescues this season involved not only swimmers, but also surfers, windsurfers and boaties, with lifeguards regularly assisting members of the public both in and out of the water.

The club was also awarded Surf Life Saving New Zealand’s “Rescue of the Month” following a critical rescue on December 14 involving a young child in a remote non-patrolled area with limited access and no communications.

Club members celebrated the season over the weekend at the annual awards night, recognising the contribution of volunteer lifeguards who patrol Ngarunui Beach throughout summer.

Award recipients included:

• Junior Lifeguard of the Year — Curtis Cosh

• Intermediate Lifeguard of the Year — Abi Meyer

• Senior Lifeguard of the Year — Lily Marlow

• Lifeguard of the Year — Olivia Moroney Pearson

During the off-season, the club is also beginning work on a major extension to its clubrooms, including a new observation tower and training room.

The previous tower was lost to erosion in 2022, prompting several years of planning and fundraising to deliver a replacement facility.

The new tower will be attached to the clubrooms and provide views across the coastline from Manu Bay to the harbour entrance, improving visibility and emergency response capability.

The facility will also include upgraded communications equipment linking lifeguards directly with SurfCom in Auckland, beach patrols and rescue craft.

The club thanked supporters including Surf Life Saving New Zealand, Raglan Community Trust, Gallagher Charitable Trust, the Glenice and John Gallagher Foundation, Lion Foundation and the Raglan Harbour View Hotel for supporting the project.

The club says temporary stop/go traffic management will be in place at times over the coming months to allow access for concrete trucks and construction deliveries, with motorists asked to drive carefully and follow signage near the surf club.

Cad drawing of proposed new tower. Front blue roof indicates new tower

Surf world descends on Raglan for historic WCT event

On its day, 'The Ledge' at the top of Manu Bay is one of the premier sections of the point at Raglan.

Credit: WSL / Cory Scott

The world’s best surfers have officially arrived in Whāingaroa Raglan as the Corona Cero New Zealand Pro Presented by Bonsoy prepares to kick off at Manu Bay this weekend.

The World Surf League Championship Tour event window runs from May 15–25, with competition expected to run across approximately four to six days depending on surf conditions. The event marks the first time Raglan has hosted a Championship Tour event and the first return of top-level WSL competition to Aotearoa in more than a decade.

Teams, event crew and supporters have begun arriving in Raglan ahead of the opening weekend of competition, with local groms already frothing as pro surfers begin appearing around town and at the points.

For Raglan local and nine-time New Zealand champion Billy Stairmand, the

moment is something he has dreamed about for years.

“This is crazy and really surreal for me,” Billy said.

“I’ve been dreaming of competing on the CT, and to do it at home is just crazy.”

The event will see the world’s top 36 men and 24 women compete at Manu Bay as Raglan’s iconic lefthand point break takes centre stage on the international surfing calendar.

Local wildcard Billy will take on Australia’s Morgan Cibilic in Heat 2 of the opening men’s round, while fellow Kiwi wildcard Tom Butland faces South African rookie Luke Thompson in Heat 1.

On the women’s side, Raglan local Alani Morse will come up against Hawaii’s Bettylou Sakura Johnson in Heat 8.

“It was so cool to compete in front of my hometown and see all the support from the community,” Alani said.

“I’m pumped to compete against my idols and just soak it all in because it’s such a cool opportunity.”

The WSL’s Rising Tides and Local Grom Board Caddy programmes are also giving Raglan’s next generation of surfers the opportunity to work alongside and surf with some of the sport’s biggest names.

Supported by Māori Board Riders and Raglan Point Boardriders, 12 local surfers will paddle out with Championship Tour athletes during the official practice day at Manu Bay on Thursday, May 14.

Traffic management measures will be in place on competition days, including a managed checkpoint at Ngarunui Beach Road, stop/go traffic management at the one-way bridge on Wainui Road, and a spectator Park & Ride system operating from Raglan Airfield.

Updates on whether competition is officially ON each day will be shared via WSL channels and event alerts.

Visit worldsurfleague.com for more information.

WHAT ’S ON

Thursday, May 14

8 AM - 3:30 PM Athlete Training Session - Event Site

8 PM Live Music From Regurgitator - Harbour View Hotel

Friday, May 15 - Monday, May 25

Corona Cero New Zealand Pro presented by Bonsoy waiting period

Friday, May 15 - Sunday, May 24

10 AM - 4 PM

Sur falicious Exhibition Raglan Old School Arts Centre

Raglan & District Museum

Open 7 days 10 AM - 3 PM

Visit the Museum to see an exhibition of local sur ﬁng histor y, highlighting the area’s rich sur ﬁng heritage

Saturday, May 16

From 5 PM

Vissla Team Signing Raglan Sur f Emporium

Sunday, May 17

From 4 PM

Billabong Team Signing, Movie Screening & Community Engagement night at Raglan Sur f Company

Live Music From Sonomass and Critter & Crew - Harbour View Hotel

Monday, May 18

From 6 PM Rip Curl Team Signing - Raglan Sur f Emporium

From 7 PM NZ Premiere of Sketchy - The Yard

Live Music From Mojo Masters - Harbour View Hotel

Tuesday, May 19

From 6 PM Volcom Team Signing at Raglan Sur f Emporium

From 7 PM Volcom World Movie Premiere / Goons of Doom at The Yard (free event)

Friday, May 22

Live Music From Tony Painting And The Power - Harbour View Hotel

Sunday, May 24

Sunday Sounds Open Mic - Harbour View Hotel

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO VIEW EVENT DETAILS HERE

Bay, Raglan. Credit: WSL / Cory Scott

As the Corona Cero New Zealand Pro Presented by Bonsoy gets underway, Raglan is set for a packed week of live music, surf films, athlete appearances and community events alongside the action at Manu Bay.

The official event waiting period runs from May 15–25, with competition days dependent on surf conditions.

The week begins with a pōwhiri on Wednesday welcoming athletes, crews and visitors to Whāingaroa ahead of the first-ever Championship Tour event at Manu Bay.

On Thursday, May 14, surfers will hit the water for the official athlete training session at the event site, while fans around town will get their first close-up look at the world’s best surfers settling into Raglan. Thursday night will also see Regurgitator perform live at the Harbour View Hotel.

The official WSL Opening Party at The Yard on Friday, May 15 will help launch the opening weekend festivities as the waiting period gets underway.

Throughout the week, surf fans will have opportunities to meet athletes during a series of team signings and events at both Raglan Surf Emporium and Raglan Surf Co.

Raglan Surf Emporium will host Vissla, Rip Curl and Volcom team signings across the event window, while Raglan Surf Co will host the Billabong Team Signing, Movie Screening and Community Engagement Night on Sunday, May 17.

Film premieres are also set to draw crowds, including the New Zealand premiere of Sketchy at The Yard on Monday, May 18, followed by the Volcom world movie premiere and Goons of Doom live show on Tuesday, May 19.

The Harbour View Hotel will host live music across multiple nights during the event window, including performances from Regurgitator, Head Like A Hole, Sonomass and Critter & Crew, Mojo Masters and Tony Painting And The Power.

Meanwhile, the Surfalicious Exhibition at the Raglan Old School Arts Centre will run daily from May 15–24, while the Raglan

& District Museum is also hosting a local surfing history exhibition highlighting the area’s rich connection to surfing culture.

With pro surfers already being spotted around town and local groms frothing on the arrival of the Championship Tour, the

next two weeks are shaping up to be one of the biggest periods Raglan has seen on the international surfing calendar.

Competition updates, ON/OFF calls and transport information will be shared daily through official WSL channels.

Manu

All the action and all the atmosphere at the Harbour View Hotel this WSL

advertorial

Raglan is set for an incredible few weeks with the World Surf League in town, and at the Harbour View Hotel, we’re here to make sure there’s a place for everyone to come together and enjoy it.

We’ll be showing all the action live and on replay across 8 big screens, including our indoor spaces and a 3-metre screen in the garden — so whether you’re following every heat or just dropping in, you won’t miss a moment.

Alongside the surfing, we’ve put together a full live music lineup to keep the energy going day and night. It’s about creating a space where locals and visitors can connect, relax, and enjoy everything Raglan does best.

And when the competition wraps up, we’re keeping things moving with the awesome energy of "Racing" playing Saturday 23rd — a night we’re really looking forward to also.

With the town set to be busy, local operator Raglan Shuttles will be running throughout, offering group transport and safe rides home, alongside our own courtesy van. Bookings can be made on 0800 825 8159.

We’re proud to be part of the wider Raglan experience during this time — offering great food (recently recognised among New Zealand’s Top 50 gastropubs), genuine hospitality, and a place where people can come together.

We’re here for all the action — and we can’t wait to welcome you.

Local barista back on the grind

by Janine Jackson

Raglan coffee aficionado Stephen Sandwell didn’t expect to be back behind the machine so soon after closing the doors of his much-loved wharf café.

But setting up at The Raglan Club has given the long-serving barista the chance to return to what he enjoys most - making great coffee and connecting with people.

“I love coffee and I love talking to people,” he says.

Stephen is hoping coffee lovers will be drawn in by the custom blend he worked closely to create with a Hamilton roastery.

“When the price of beans kept going up, I found a small boutique roastery that worked with me to create a custom blend,” he says.

With tasting notes of dark chocolate balanced by floral and nutty flavours, it’s

a blend the self-described coffee addict is proud to serve – and happy to drink himself.

Open days are usually Friday to Sunday, but Stephen is opening daily during the World Surf League Championship Tour.

A keen surfer himself, he’s looking forward to the atmosphere the international event will bring to town.

With 12 years’ experience behind the machine, Stephen takes coffee seriously.

“I did a course in Sydney, but most of what I’ve learned has been on the job,” he says. “The art of making coffee is getting the grind right. You want the extraction running between 25 and 35 seconds.”

Get your next coffee fix from Raglan Harbour Coffee at The Raglan Club, 22 Bow Street.

Friday from 9.30am-12pm — all coffees just $2.50, Saturday & Sunday from 8am2pm.

Introducing FLOWpresso Therapy

Advertorial

F low State: The Future of Healing & Recovery in Whaingaroa, Raglan — where the moana shapes daily rhythm and wellbeing — FLOW – Art of Healing offers a revolutionary approach to recovery, relaxation and reconnection. Led by Ardré your Flow alchemist with over 20 years of professional bodywork experience, the clinic blends advanced wellness technology with time-honoured Cultural Bodywork massage, grounded in Hawaiian Kahuna & Māori Romiromi for renewed balance, flow and mauri ~ life force.

FLOWpresso Therapy guides you to a sancturay within. A New Zealand-born innovation now internationally recognised as an FDA-approved Class II medical device — reflecting both safety and therapeutic credibility on a global stage.

FLOWpresso is a specialised suit delivering sequential compression that mimics a healthy lymphatic system, combined with infrared heat and grounding pressure. Every session is tailored to individual needs. The experience is deeply somatic — like being gently held and rhythmically massaged from feet to shoulders — activating the body’s “rest and repair” a parasympathetic state.

Circulation improves, lymphatic flow is stimulated, cellular relaxation, the mind becomes still and natural detox and recovery processes are switched on all within a heated cocoon-like environment.

The Relaxation Mode supports:

• nervous system regulation

• reduced stress and inflammation

• improved sleep, immune support

• mental clarity

• jetlag relief, anxiousness

• a deep sense of calm

• increased energy

• relieves muscle tension, heaviness & physical fatigue

Sports Performance & Recovery Mode enhances:

• muscle recovery

• circulation

• flexibility, mobility

• lymphatic drainage

• mental sharpness

• fascia release

• better sleep, stress reduction

• faster recovery from fatigue and soreness

Side-by-side sessions are available with two FLOWpresso suits or Cultural Bodywork massage for couples, friends, a shared healing experience.

Step in, exhale to return to your natural state of flow.

Book online and receive 15% off your first FLOWpresso session! use code FIRSTFLOW

FLOW – Art of Healing ardremagic@gmail.com 12 Wallis St, Whaingaroa, Raglan www.flowdomenz.com | 027 245 2115

Whāingaroa Weedbusters : Community volunteers take on privet and pest plants

This monthly column is supported by Te Rekereke Taiao Trust through funding from Waikato Regional Council, helping share local knowledge, community action and practical advice around pest plant control and environmental restoration in Whāingaroa.

You may have noticed small groups of people hanging about amongst the trees on the roadsides around Raglan. If you're wondering who they are or what they're up to they are volunteers hunting Privet. But that’s not all they do. The volunteers are part of a small group of locals called Whaingaroa Weedbusters.

The group was started five years ago by Liz Stanway who you may know as the compost maker extraordinaire from Xtreme. She obtained a grant from Waikato Regional Council to explore community-led pest plant control. Leanne Steel joined in and kept the mahi going after Liz returned to her amazing work.

At the end of the initial project Leanne met with local people who were also interested in clearing pest plants on the Kaitoke Walkway. The core group of about eight people meet somewhere on the Kaitoke Walkway two Saturday mornings each month to remove plants such as Ginger, Woolly nightshade, Japanese honeysuckle, Moth plant and of course Privet.

The focus is on restoring and enhancing the environment for native species.

Over time this dedicated core group has extended its work to include other areas of

weed need. For example, small groups each week work to control problem pest plants on public, council administered land. Privet on the roadside is a key focus because of the impact it has both on the environment and on people’s health.

Next time you a group of people in the undergrowth, maybe stop and talk to them about what they do and consider joining them on their forays. Many hands make light work.

Keep an eye out for our monthly pest plant column with thanks to Te Rekereke Taiao Trust and Waikato Regional Council. Whaingaroaweedbusters@gmail.com

Ruapuke lifestyler finds his inspiration in own magazine

by Edith Symes

As unlikely as it may seem to find a glossy magazine produced out the back of beyond, that’s exactly what comes out of Ruapuke every second month as editor and owner Michael Andrew publishes the latest issue of his nationally circulating ‘On the Land’.

The typically 100-page publication is dedicated to celebrating people living off the land, from gardeners and farmers to artisans and lifestylers. They get to share their inspiring stories, know-how and wisdom on growing food, living resiliently and regenerating the land in Aotearoa.

They’re people stories not dissimilar to those often featured on TV’s ‘Country Calendar’, only in print.

For Michael, who bought the magazine a few years ago and his own lifestyle block in Ruapuke not long before that, it’s like having a running encyclopedia on hand as he “learns to tend my own land.“

He’d turned his back on journalism and city life in Auckland to live remotely in Ruapuke on two-and-a-half acres of rolling paddocks with 360-degree views, but then wondered what next.

As it happened ‘NZ Lifestyle Block’ magazine came up for grabs so Michael seized the opportunity to become its new owner and editor, changing its name to ‘On the Land’ to broaden readership.

At the same time he started “squirreling away” ideas from the very stories he was editing and publishing.

Two years on from turning townie to lifestyler he has a new solar, off-grid house for his young family, sustainable

systems in place on the property and – with each new issue – a growing wealth of knowledge at his fingertips.

And he’s adamant he can never go back to urban living – that connection with the landscape having improved Michael’s quality of life ”dramatically”.

It’s peaceful, he can hear the ocean, is “enchanted” by the view whether it be mountain and ocean or simply horses grazing nearby, and the rustic Ruapuke vineyard next door.

“It’s a spectacle we wake up to every morning,” says Michael, gratefully.

But country living aside, this 37 year old now wants to take his bimonthly magazine to the next level and is currently running a PledgeMe crowdfunding campaign to secure its future with a $40,000 minimum target.

“I had very little working capital at the outset,” he admits, “and ‘On the Land’ has always been lean financially.”

Michael is set on growing ‘On the Land’ to have the resources to attract more subscribers and financial partners. He can then continue sharing inspirational stories produced by talented photographers and writers, he says.

“There are so many amazing stories here and in the Waikato,” he adds, pointing to his next issue featuring local wellness retreat Pumula, established recently on land “no-one really wanted”.

These are the kinds of stories that inspire him to keep the print publication alive – amid the growing onslaught of digital media – and take it forward, focusing on “slow reads and sage advice written on paper, by people, for people”.

https://pledgeme.co.nz/projects/8907-help-on-the-landsurvive-and-thrive-into-the-future

New date for Three Authors Book Launch

from Merren Tait

The authors behind the Three Authors Book Launch have rescheduled after unforeseen circumstances forced a last-minute cancellation of April’s event.

The launch, originally scheduled for the Friday of ANZAC weekend at the Old School, had to be postponed when Matt Kambic fell ill and fellow author, Sarah Johnson, experienced a family medical emergency that worsened throughout the day. The sudden nature of these events made it difficult for the team to notify the community in time.

The authors are hugely apologetic to everyone who travelled to the Old School on Friday to find out the event was not on. Getting the cancellation word out in such a short

time proved challenging and they are very sorry for any inconvenience.

Matt, Sarah and Merren also want to express appreciation for local media getting behind the event and promoting it. The Raglan Chronicle featured the launch on its front page, and Raglan Community Radio aired an interview with the team, courtesy of Annika.

The authors are pleased to announce that the book launch will now take place on Friday 5th of June at the Raglan Old School Art Centre. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., with the event beginning at 7:00 p.m.

The community is invited to join the rescheduled celebration of the three authors' latest works.

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Update from Raglan Medical

Raglan

Medical is proud to partner with Ka Ora Telecare, giving our patients and wider community access to healthcare when we’re closed.

Through our partnership with Ka Ora Telecare, patients in Raglan and rural communities across Aotearoa can access professional healthcare afterhours via phone or video consultation.

New Raglan Community Facebook page launched

For regular updates, please scan the QR code, like & follow our page for regular updates.

Late night clinics

Each Thursday evening, four clinicians are on duty; two GPs and two Community Nurse Prescribers giving you more choice and flexibility when booking.

We also offer a full range of vaccinations, including:

• Childhood immunisations

• B4School checks

• COVID/Flu

• HPV/Shingles

Book your appointment today and take advantage of our extended hours.

Did Not Attend (DNA) Appointments

Raglan Medical Practice Hours (by appointment) Mon, Tue, Wed & Fri 8am-5pm Thursday 8am-7pm

Over the past six months, we have had an average of 10 GP or Nurse Practitioner appointments each week where patients did not attend without notice. This is equivalent to a full morning of appointments every week that could have been used to care for other patients.

Because appointment demand is high, we ask that you notify us at least 4 hours before your appointment if you are unable to attend.

Afterhours & Public Holidays

Please note:

• A $30 DNA fee will be added to your account if you do not attend your appointment

Anglesea Clinic provides face to face health services for our patients out of normal working hours and can be contacted on 07 858 0800.

For

• We send a courtesy reminder text the day before your appointment

EMERGENCIES

DIAL 111

• Reminder texts are not a guaranteed method of notification, and not receiving a text does not exempt the DNA fee

Healthline can be contacted 24 hours a day on 0800 611 116 for free advice from registered nurses.

• We encourage patients to record appointments in their diary or calendar at the time of booking

Thank you for helping us keep appointments available for those who need them.

9 Wallis Street. Raglan 07 825 0114

Ka Ora Telecare After-Hours Care for Rural Communities Weeknights 5pm-8am Weekends/Holidays 24 hours 0800 252 672

https://www.raglanmedical.co.nz/

Tony wins dramatic Myrle Robertson Shootout

The Meryl Robertson Golf Shootout is a highly sought-after golf event that not only recognises Meryl’s longstanding service to Raglan Golf Club, but also delivers a unique challenge for club members.

The rules of the day are simple – the player with the worst score on each hole drops out of contention, leaving the final two golfers to battle it out in a shootout on the 18th green.

This year, 13 aspiring golfers stepped onto the first tee chasing honours and glory.

After a day of challenging golf, Wayne and Tony emerged as the final pairing, standing on the 18th green ready for the shootout showdown.

Tony won the final hole to claim the 2026 Meryl Robertson Trophy.

Well done to all participants – golf was the real winner on the day.

...hole in one...

...Pete Aim...

Golfing niners hit new heights with fun games

It’s

been nine months since we began the Niners, a nine hole, fun golf competition on a Sunday for 9 hole members, and its popularity has grown 10 fold!

With FUN being the key word, golfers have been offered a smorgasbord of golfing experiences from Ambrose, Canadian Foursomes, Number of Putts, Longest Drive, Nearest the Flag, Mystery Partners, Bingo Bongo, Bango, Air Shots, Bunker

Landings, and many others. Keeping the game interesting and FUN has been the emphasis behind the Niners, with weekly prizes awarded for all manner of golfing reasons. Throw in a coveted Green Jacket for the best golfing moment of the day, and you have a fun-filled event.

Taking the emphasis from winning to grinning has proved a powerful formula for our NINERS!!

....in the bunker....

....Pete Aim...

Kirtan Experience coming to Raglan Town Hall

Mantra Band is bringing its travelling Kirtan Experience to Raglan Town Hall on Friday, May 15, offering a free evening of live music, meditation and community connection.

The event, running from 7pm–9pm, is designed as an immersive experience combining mantra music, guided meditation and movement in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Organisers say no previous experience is needed, with the evening open to anyone curious about meditation, music or simply taking time out from the pace of everyday life.

Mantra Band is currently touring communities around Aotearoa sharing kirtan, a participatory music and meditation practice

focused on connection, mindfulness and wellbeing.

The evening will move through different moods and energies, from calming and reflective moments through to uplifting group singing and dance-floor-style energy.

“There is a strong emphasis on participation and shared experience,” organisers said.

“Many people find it both uplifting and grounding — offering a refreshing break from the pace of daily life.”

The event is intended to create an inclusive community space centred around peace, togetherness and positive wellbeing.

Doors open at 6.30pm, with attendees asked to arrive by 6.45pm ahead of the 7pm start. The event is free, although organisers recommend securing tickets online in advance as spaces are limited.

Growing stronger together : practical ways to build a more resilient community

from Tumanako - Suicide Awareness Whaingaroa

Resilience is often spoken about in times of challenge, but at its heart it is something that can be nurtured every day through the ways we connect, support one another and respond to life’s ups and downs.

For Lucy Hone, this work is not only grounded in science, but also in deeply personal experience. After the sudden loss of her 12-year-old daughter, she turned to the resilience research she knew so well to help navigate profound grief. That combination of lived experience and academic expertise shapes her practical, honest approach to what it really means to keep going when life is hard.

Lucy’s work offers insights that any community can draw on to strengthen wellbeing and connection. She emphasises that resilience is not about being unaffected by difficulty, but about developing the skills and mindset to respond in ways that are realistic, supportive and sustainable.

Recognising that life includes challenges

An important foundation of resilience is understanding that change, loss and uncertainty are part of being human. When this is acknowledged openly, it helps create environments where people feel more

New Zealand Premier of the film: “Gaza Nippers”

The film “ Gaza Nippers” connects the surfing community of Manly, Sydney and Gaza. Made in early 2023before the isreali invasion of Gaza, the film charts the dream of starting Gaza's first surf club, the

goal to bring joy, hope, and safety in the water for Palestinian children.

Begun in 2019, two young men from Gaza trained in Australia as surf lifesavers at Manly. They learnt what it takes to run a Nippers program, and took that knowledge back to Gaza to begin a culture of surf lifesaving education. This is an inspiring film about children in Gaza under siege.

Whaaingaroa Palestine Solidarity are proud to be hosting the first showing of this film in Aotearoa, and during the world surfing competition. We are screening it on Wednesday 20 May at 7pm at Raglan Old School in Stewart Street. Come along and support Palestine and see this inspiring film. Entry is by koha/donation.

Whaaingaroa Palestine Solidarity are also holding a rally to commemorate the Nakba, the forced expulsion of 750,000 Palestinians from their land and homes in 1948. We will meet at the south end of the main street, Bow St, at 11 am on Sunday 17th May.

Come along and join us and show your support for the Palestinians’ peoples almost eighty year struggle to retain their land. We have extra flags and signs.

comfortable sharing their experiences and supporting one another.

Focusing on what helps

In everyday life, small choices can have a big impact. A simple question to guide us is: “Is what I’m doing helping or harming me?”

By encouraging healthy ways of coping — such as talking with others, spending time outdoors, engaging in meaningful activities and seeking support when needed — communities can foster positive wellbeing.

Protecting everyday wellbeing

Resilience is built through consistent, everyday habits. Prioritising rest, movement, connection and routine helps create a strong foundation for navigating whatever life brings. Community groups and shared spaces play an important role in supporting these habits.

Staying connected to what matters

At the centre of resilient communities are strong relationships. Whānau, friendships, neighbours and shared values all contribute to a sense of belonging. Opportunities to come together through events, conversations and collective activities help strengthen these important connections.

Practising realistic optimism

Resilience is not about forced positivity. It is about acknowledging reality while maintaining a sense of hope and the belief that we can find ways forward. This balanced perspective supports both individuals and communities to adapt and grow.

A shared approach

Building resilience is something we all contribute to. Through everyday actions — checking in with one another, creating inclusive spaces and encouraging open conversations — we help shape communities where people feel connected, supported and able to thrive.

Resilience grows in the small moments: a conversation, a shared experience, a willingness to listen. Together, these moments create strong, connected communities that are better equipped for whatever the future may bring.

RAGLAN JUNIOR RUGBY RESULTS:

2nd May 2026

Raglan 6th Grade vs Taupiri Red

Draw 8 - 8

POD: Waikato Tahi

ROD: Carter Vercoe

OPOD: Te Tai o Rehua Hughes

7th Grade vs Melville 7 Red

Win 60 - 25

POD: Rocky Wakelin

ROD: Reece Glover

OPOD: Skye Prior

8th Grade vs Suburbs Silver

Win 55 - 30

POD: Sunny Reynartz-McCarthy

TOD: Angus Tilsley

OPOD: Billie Cox

9th Grade v Frankton 9th

Loss: 25-60

POD: Izzy Peacocke

TOD: Blake Bell

OPOD: Izzy Peacocke

10th Grade vs Melville 10 Red

Win 75 - 25

POD: Flynn Mathis

TOD: Sam Bourke

OPOD: Ridge Munns

11th Grade vs Ohaupo

Win 15 - 25

POD: Ruby Peacock

TOD: Buster Schnuriger

OPOD: Ridge Munns

12th Grade vs Melville Red

Win 75 - 7

POD: Charlie Wakelin

TOD: Louenn Arnaud

OPOD: Orin Bennett

9th May 2026

6th Grade vs Suburbs White

Win 10 - 8

POD: Sika Daysh

ROD: Taylor Hablous

OPOD: Te Tai o Rehua Huges

7th Grade Vs Frankton

Win 55 - 40

POD Lachie Van den Bemd

ROD Caio Donaldson

OPOD Van Mathers

10th Grade vs Te Kowhai Hurricanes

Win 40 - 30

POD: Brock Skerman

TOD: Cillian Kronfield

OPOD: Sam Bourke

11th Grade

Loss 30 - 40

POD Tane Atkinson

TOD Aria Donaldson

OPOD Aria Donaldson

12th Grade vs Southwell Blue

Loss 7 - 50

POD: Noah Cox

TOD: Orin Bennett

OPOD: Orin Bennett

what’s on

COMMUNITY KAI BY KOHA THE TINY SHOP (BOW ST)

MONDAYS: A new weekly Community Kai by Koha programme launches this Monday at The Tiny Shop, bringing people together over shared food and connection, with koha welcomed.

FRIENDS OF KAITOKE WALKWAY

meet on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays every month at 9am to remove pest plants and restore the native environm ent. Email Whāingaroaweed busters@gmail.com for the meeting point.

RAGLAN BOWLING

CLUB Join our friendly club for roll-ups Wed and Sat 1pm. Register 12.45pm. Give bowls a go.

RALLY TO COMMEMORATE PALESTINIAN

NAKBA DAY. Sunday 17 May at 11am at bottom of Bow Street.

FIRST SHOWING IN AOTEAROA OF THE FILM "GAZA NIPPERS" at Raglan Art's Centre, Old School, Stewart St. Wednesday 20th May at 7pm. Entry by koha/ donation.

RAGLAN GROWERS

MARKET, 5-7pm Every Friday on Stewart Street Remember to bring your reusables!

For Sale

FIREWOOD DRY, DELIVERED. - trailer load - dry old man pine - 215.00, Pine210.00, Blackwood 220.00. Phone 021 0771524.

SUBSCRIPTIONS NOW DUE

5 Stewart St, Raglan

WHAT'S ON

WINE, BEER & SPIRITS TASTING -16 May at Raglan Town Hall

WSL ATHLETE TRAINING SESSION

Thursday, May 14, 8

AM – 3:30 PM – EManu Bay

CORONA CERO NEW ZEALAND PRO PRESENTED BY BONSOY

Manu Bay, Friday, May 15 – Monday, May 25. Check for comnpetition ON days.

RUGGED ROGAINE ON KARIOI Sunday, May 24, 2026, 10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m. The Rugged Rogaine Series is a fun way to explore the beautiful Waikato countryside. Regos close 20 May.

RAGLAN: COAST TO CANVAS Raglan Museum, On show now, open daily 10am–3pmA new surf art and photography exhibition celebrating Whāingaroa’s surf culture, landscapes and creative community is now showing at Raglan Museum, 15 Wainui Road.

DISPLAY ADS FROM $20 info@raglanchronicle.co.nz

2025/26 memberships expired 31 March – please renew now to support the arts in Whāingaroa and benefit from news, discounts and access to the Clay Shed (extra fee) www. raglanartscentre.co.nz/about/being-a-memberof-the-old-school/.

THE SURFELICIOUS ART SHOW – 15 – 24 MAY

A group exhibition celebrating surf culture, beach vibes and personal expression. Opening 6-8pm Friday 15 May, then open 10-4 daily 1624 May.

INTO THE BLUE EXHIBITION – 30 MAY – 13

JUNE

Themed group exhibition featuring 20+ local artists – ceramics, painting, mixed media, textiles, photography. Opening Friday 29 May 6-8pm with mulled wine, then daily 10am-4pm Saturday 30 May – Saturday 13 June.

MUSIC AT THE OLD SCHOOL – WED 3 JUNE

Traditional Irish music with Brendan Mulholland (fiddle) and Johnny Murphy (flute) – don’t miss these world-class Irish musicians. Whare Tapere, 7.30-9pm, doors open 7pm. Tickets $35 + bf from eventfinda.co.nz or cash on the door if available. Licensed bar and café open.

MOVIES

THE TIME TRAVELLER’S GUIDE TO HAMILTON

GARDENS

(Exempt | 73 mins) Sat 16 May 5pm

WUTHERING HEIGHTS

(M | 136 mins) Sat 16 May 7.30pm Sun 7 June 7pm

SGT HAANE

(M | 88 mins) Sun 17 May 4.30pm English, Maori & Arabic with English subtitles

TENOR: MY NAME IS PATI

(PG | 104 mins) Sun 17 May 7.00pm

REGULAR EVENTS

Ragtimers Ukulele Group 2nd and every subsequent Wed 4pm

Clay Shed Members’ Night weekly on Wed 5-7pm

Karioi Quilts & Crafts Monthly on 2nd Thurs, 10am

Raglan Art Group Monthly on 1st Fri, 10am

Backgammon Club monthly on last Fri, 5pm

Contact 825 0023 | www.raglanartscentre.co.nz/

Movie Door sales 30min prior raglanmovies.co.nz

classifieds@raglanchronicle.co.nz

RAGLAN GARDEN GROUP NEXT MEETING

Next meeting Tuesday 19 May at 1pm in the Church Hall, Stewart Street. Guest speaker Anna Fisher, Raglan Macadamias. Floral Art theme – Honouring Mother. Normal competitions, display table, sales table, Garden Vibes, raffle, tea and biscuits. All welcome.

PANUI WHAANGA 1B2C2B

To all beneficiaryshareholders. Hui to be held 30 May 2026, 14 King St, Ngaruawahia at 10.30 am. Resolutions for mandate: Form Customary Trust & Maori Authority. File s131 TTW Maori Act 1993 MLC Application. Reactivate contingency Ahu Whenua Trust. Approve papakainga, custodian to unsucceeded shareholders, protection of dormant shares, Form K&R Rongo Whanau Trust. For Hui details contact Kathy 0201113708.

Situations Vacant

ACCOUNTANT | RAGLAN/WHAINGAROA

FLEXIBLE, SUPPORTIVE TEAM

ABOUT THE ROLE:

Bizworx Consultancy Limited is seeking a motivated and personable Accountant to join our close-knit team in Raglan/Whaingaroa. This is a great opportunity to build your career in a supportive environment while enjoying the lifestyle benefits of a coastal community. You’ll work closely with a range of clients, delivering high-quality accounting and advisory services.

Key responsibilities

• Preparation of financial statements and income tax returns

• Tax compliance, including GST, PAYE, and FBT

• Assisting with business advisory services

• Building and maintaining strong client relationships

• Preparation of management reports

Skills and experience

• Minimum 3 years’ accounting experience (ideally in a CA environment)

• Proficiency with Xero and Microsoft Office

• Strong communication and client relationship skills

• Well-organised with the ability to manage multiple priorities

• A proactive, positive approach

Relevant qualifications (or working towards them) are preferred but not essential.

What we offer

• Flexible, family-friendly working environment

• Supportive, team-oriented culture

• Ongoing professional development

• Opportunities for career progression

• Excellent work/life balance

• A relaxed lifestyle in Raglan, close to the harbour and local cafés

About us

Bizworx is a well-established accountancy practice known for its practical advice and strong community connections. We pride ourselves on delivering personalised service and building long-term client relationships.

How to apply

For a confidential discussion, contact Sue Steedman on 07 825 7050, or apply now by sending your CV and cover letter to: info@bizworx.co.nz.

Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand.