Weekend sun 16 dec 16

16 December 2016, Issue 834

Inside

Rethinking p3

The Bay’s largest circulating, most read newspaper.

66,600 copies

to the homes of 159,700 residents throughout TAURANGA, MOUNT MAUNGANUI, PAPAMOA, WAIHI BEACH, KAIMAI, KATIKATI, TE PUKE, PAENGAROA, OTAMARAKAU and all RDs

Monstrous efforts It’s called the Mount Monster for a reason – a four-stage 25km-long event along the stunning Mount Maunganui coastline. Tomorrow’s ‘monster’ event starts and finishes on Mount Maunganui’s Main Beach, with a 5km beach run, a spectacular swim leg which includes a jump off Moturiki Island’s blowhole, a 12km ski leg to Omanu and a 6km

board paddle. But the demanding distance of New Zealand’s biggest surf lifesaving race hasn’t discouraged another quality field in its fourth year.

The Mount Monster is on tomorrow, December 17, at Mount Main Beach. Racing starts at 10am.

Read more on page 7. Photo: Jamie Troughton/Dscribe Media.

Summer sweet spot p11

Feeling a lot like Christmas p22-25

‘Twas the night before... p43

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Friday 16 December 2016

The Weekend Sun

2 The Weekend Sun is published every Friday, circulating throughout the Western Bay of Plenty, delivered free to 65,000 homes of more than 159,700 residents from Waihi Beach, through Katikati, Tauranga, Mt Maunganui, Papamoa and Te Puke including rural and residential mailboxes.

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Sun Media Ltd Directors: Claire & Brian Rogers General Manager: Jay Burston Editorial: Andrew Campbell, Letitia Atkinson, Elaine Fisher, Zoe Hunter, Merle Foster, David Tauranga, Hunter Wells, Ryan Wood, Cayla Saunders. Photography: Tracy Hardy, Bruce Barnard. Advertising: Matt Batchelor, Kathy Sellars, Suzy King, Lois Natta, Rose Hodges, Bianca Lawton, Doug Britton, Chloe Brown, Leah Rogers, Aimee-Leigh Brunsdon, Lucy Pattison, Jo Delicata, Tinesha Lupke, Karlene Sherris. Design Studio: Kym Johnson, James Carrigan, Kerri Wheeler, Kyra Duffy, Lauren McGillivray, Karen Raikes. Office: Julie Commerer, Melanie Stone, Kathy Drake.

The Bay’s most read newspaper

A day at the races The Sun staff had a great time at the races last week. I went along as moral support, not being a regular follower of horse racing but toting my pocket money.

(See what I did there?)

Vents Solar Panels Satellite Dishes Heating

Back in the day people would ask me: “Who is going to win the Melbourne Cup?” and with my vast and confident knowledge of horse racing, I would always say: “Brock in a Commodore”. Of course that joke doesn’t work so well, now Brock has shuffled off to greener pastures. Promise, I won’t trot it out again.

I’m not averse to the odd flutter at the races, from time to time, and maybe some of you readers should reacquaint yourselves with the thrill of a horse race. Winning isn’t everything, although it’s great to strike it lucky now and then. I find going to the races is as much about the fun, hospitality and atmosphere and a chance to wear my best hat. The same one !

9 I wore to Sarah’s wedding, for those of you $9 ly n o mer. Tickets m impressed by my impeccable dress sense. su r e v o ts h 9! $9 eekend flig ly Tauranga’s finest and most fashionable folk on s et k ic er summer. T ov were there of course, enjoying a tipple, which ts h ig fl d eeken I think is a drink used to wash down the slightly bitter disappointment of backing a slow horse.

me up for a 30 minute scenic light me uparound in a for a 30Tauranga minute scenic flightclassic around Tauranga DC3 airliner!in a classic DC3 airliner!

Backing horses

Which got me thinking, perhaps people would do better on the tote if they didn’t back horses. They’d find horses go faster frontwards. But hey, I’m a rookie race-goer, don’t take my word for it. Just an idea. But if they insist on backing them, they could at least try fitting wing mirrors.

I caught onto the racing lingo pretty fast, Reserve your seat fromand was soon able to converse like a seasoned Reserve your seat from punter. I was particularly pleased with Classic Flyers 4000) Classic Flyers (07(07 572572 4000) some of my astute equestrian questions on book online oror book online at attechnical matters about the race meeting, www.airchathams.co.nzsuch as “where are the toilets?” and “is there www.airchathams.co.nz cake?”

In one race I heard someone say a couple of horses had lost their jockeys.

When I looked, I saw some horses that had lost their pants as well.

There must have been a couple of rappers in the stands, I know this because I heard one of them remark on a couple of “really nice baes”.

spectator facilities and a great way to spend an afternoon with friends. Many thanks to the Tauranga Racing Club for putting on the hospitality and the Sun crew for being such good sports.

I suspect a flea outbreak in the stables, Is Rudolph really a tranny?

Some sensational news out of the North Pole because some of the horses didn’t start, due region: Allegations are persisting that Rudolph to scratching. may be a transvestite.

My wife, quite an expert on horse racing Snopes website – specialists in debunking matters, showed me a race book and asked urban legends and social media myths – which of the horses I wanted to back. I reports both male and female reindeer grow saw one that had no rider assigned to it, so antlers in the summer. According to the figured it would have a really good chance of Alaska Department of Fish & Game, male winning, if it was racing without a payload. reindeer drop their antlers at the beginning Unfortunately, they found a pilot for it at the last minute…otherwise I’m sure it would of winter, usually late November to midDecember. Female reindeer keep their antlers have blitzed the field. usually until after they’ve given Someone commented that birth in the spring. it was quite a big field and So according to RR’s vast I agreed; it went all the way scientific knowledge and to the golf course and those infallible deduction process, trees in the distance. every one of Santa’s reindeer We noticed St John must be must be female. really short of funds, because Therefore every depiction they had their ambulance of the portly sleigh person entered in all the races. But with antlered propulsion they’re going to have to drive units up front, from Rudolph a bit more aggressively if they Are Rudolph and friends to Blitzen, are anatomically want to win, the ambulance enthusiastic cross-dressers, came in last, every race. flamboyant transsexuals; or incorrect. In other words, all the sleigh team must be girl There were big screens all have the lads had the snip? reindeers. around showing the races The only logical explanation for this, is from umpteen different angles, so that was that the eight or nine flying reindeer have at quite exciting for the winners but a little some stage undergone gender re-assignment deflating for the losers. surgery, or at very least, are dressed in drag.

Especially when you see your horse coming near last, from every angle possible.

Rutting season

Those small horses

Sometimes they showed races from other tracks around the country. In one particular race, with those really small horses, all the riders fell off at the start. But all the small horses, which had a striking resemblance to running dogs, kept on running anyway and everyone seemed well pleased. Except the rabbit who had the misfortune to be crossing the track every time a race started.

There was great excitement in our group when one of the girls got a trifecta.

Not sure what that is, but must be fairly uncomfortable as she was jumping up and down like a mad woman. Perhaps it was something she picked up in the stables.

All in all a great day out, marvellous

Snopes also reports some other possible explanations for Santa’s reindeer having antlers: Santa’s sleigh helpers might also be castrated males, known as steers, because they maintain their body condition throughout the winter. Bulls are tuckered out from rutting season when they mate with as many as a dozen females in the months leading up to December.

That leaves them depleted and too lean to pull a sleigh or sled through heavy snows.

Other research leads to the conclusion that Rudolph is a woman simply because she’s so clever at navigating around the world, since women are more inclined to stop to ask directions. brian@thesun.co.nz

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IMPORTANT STUFF: All material is copyright and may not be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. Sun Media makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information and accepts no liability for errors or omissions or the subsequent use of information published. Reindeer are the only animals capable of seeing ultraviolet light. Reindeer and caribou are the same thing. Their hooves harden and soften, depending on the season. In summer when the ground is wet they soften for extra traction. The pads tighten in winter to cope with snow and ice.

The Weekend Sun

Friday 16 December 2016

3

Resuming civic heart progress

The proposed Civic Heart project could look like this. Photo: Tauranga City Council.

Tauranga City Council’s approach to planning its new administration building is going to change from next Tuesday, December 20, when the first decisions on the Civic Heart project are made by the new council.

becomes what and what is placed where,” says Larry.

“I think issues around the museum are still surfacing. The location of the museum is still far from settled. When you look at what they came up with – four buildings, including the museum and the library – that meant you had a pretty crowded square.

“We are going to try and sort that out as early as we can what the locations will be.

“It’s crazy to go ahead with feasibility studies when you still have two sites, because then you start duplicating everything. We should get that settled,” says Larry.

The buses are another issue yet to be discussed and decided.

The bus tops will have to be moved from Willow St because of the demolition of the administration building.

It was suggested in the workshop the bus stops be moved to

The new City Transformation Committee’s chairman Larry Baldock says first up there will be a bit of a rethink and analysis on the state of the other council buildings in the city precinct.

It’s accepted the administration building fronting Willow St is to be demolished, but there will be another look at the library and the corner building.

“I think there’s a general view among the elected members that we are going to be taking a fresh look at some of it, seeing what

Durham St, but no-one yet knows where in Durham St that will be, says Larry.

“The decision that the previous council made before was that by December there would be a report from staff that would touch on the issues. To a large extent we’re going through that,” says Larry.

The workshop also involved a bit of a debrief from councillors who were part of the process up to the election and from councillors that had observed the process from the outside.“We discussed what we saw had gone wrong and how we should do it better in future,” says Larry. The current plan is to fill the site with new buildings.

A new council administration office, a new library, a museum and an indoor entertainment centre.

The only confirmed decision from the previous council is for the demolition of the Willow St Andrew Campbell building.

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Friday 16 December 2016 A selection of some local breaking stories featured this week on...

The Weekend Sun

4

Haiku to help you ‘check your speed’ The voices of children and the power of poetry are adding to the call to reduce serious injuries and deaths on our roads this summer.

The only local daily news source you need, constantly updated, seven days a week

www.sunlive.co.nz News tips ph

0800 SUNLIVE

Otumoetai home gutted by fire Firefighters are investigating the cause of a fire which gutted an Otumoetai home on Wednesday.

Flames were seen leaping from the front window of the Otumoetai Rd home just before 9am.

A spokesperson for Plunket Bay of Plenty, which is next door to the affected home, says staff had been running clinics with parents and their children at the time of the fire.

“We evacuated as soon as the fire broke out and there were no issues in this regard.”

Tauranga family of 10 burgled An outreach programme at Gate Pa is gathering in support for a family who lost all their electronics and Christmas presents in a burglary. Haeata Charitable Trust Gate Pa Community Meal organises community meals and the family is well-known to them, says trust member Teisha Reihana. They are donating gift vouchers to try and help the family out.

New online property auction site Tauranga is the first location in the country to test a new online property auction site.

Locally-owned website PropFi gives househunters the option of bidding in real time on properties from the comfort of their own home, or wherever they connect to the internet.

Ray White real estate agent Ian Grindle says his Tauranga office has been given the opportunity to be the first in the country to be featured on the site, which has been open to the public since October.

Bay of Plenty children are encouraged to take part in a national Holiday Haiku competition based on the road safety message ‘check your speed’.

Police, in conjunction with ACC and other road safety partners launched the competition that will run until January 25, 2017. “Anyone who has driven with children in the car knows how much weight their voices can have in getting you to slow down,” says NZ Police road policing assistant commissioner Dave Cliff.

“They seem to be very clear on the fact that driving too fast is dangerous and they just want to get to their destination safely and get on with having fun.”

Haiku are short three-line unrhymed poems, with the first and last line traditionally having five syllables, and seven syllables in the middle line. There’ll be three weekly winners drawn for the duration of

Renowned Kiwi poet Sam Hunt with budding Wellington poets Frank Cross, Isabelle Douglas, Louisa Boyer, Kate Davies and Ruby Dacombe-Bird. the competition, and from these 24 winners, five top haiku will be chosen by well-known poet Sam Hunt and the young poets will be rewarded with Z Energy summer hampers.

Their haiku will be also used for social media content and radio advertising, with a reminder to check your speed, says Dave.

Budding poets can enter online at: www.z.co.nz/haiku Or email: holiday.haiku@police.govt.nz Or by posting their poems to: Holiday, Haiku, NZ Police, PO Box 3017, Wellington.

Entry forms are available through AMI Insurance. Entries close January 25, 2017.

John Key: ‘He’s a larger than life personality’ The old adage is that a week is a long time in politics. It is clearly as true today as when it was first written. In just seven short days we’ve had the unexpected resignation of our Prime Minister John Key, a fast but fair leadership challenge with a healthy pool of candidates and the election and seamless transition to power of a Bill English-led government.

I have no doubt that John Key’s intelligence, optimism and integrity as both Prime Minister and leader of the National Party will see him judged by history as one of New Zealand’s greatest leaders. He had an ability to speak to every day New Zealanders in

the language of their lives and to forge a real connection with those he encountered. He’s a larger than life personality – but the strength and stability of our government has never been built on personality.

It’s been built on delivering meaningful results for Kiwis.

New Zealand is in great shape.

We have a strong, growing economy and our public finances are in good health thanks to the tough choices and decisions made by this government during the years driven capably by Bill English as Finance Minister.

Responsible economic and fiscal management has delivered real and tangible benefits for

everyday people.

There are more jobs, lower unemployment and higher incomes. That isn’t just a line from a campaign speech but a fact backed up by figures.

Treasuries latest forecasts predict unemployment will drop to 4.3 per cent by 2020-2021, with more than 150,000 additional jobs created and average wages increasing by $7500 to $66,000 per annum. We are forecast to be $473 million in surplus this year rapidly rising to $8.5 billion

during the same period.

The point I’m trying to reinforce here is New Zealand is doing really well, and that isn’t going to change based on the personality in charge. Bill English and Paula Bennett will steady the ship and deliver the continuity and stability that we need to enable National to keep working for New Zealand.

I’m excited for this new chapter in our story, and I believe you should be too.

From my family to yours, I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

Enjoy the time with friends and family, make the most of the weather, and I’ll see you in 2017.

Armed dairy robbery unsolved An alleged armed robbery at a Tauranga dairy remains unsolved, and Police are appealing to the public for information.

The case appeared on the crime show ‘Police Ten 7’ at the beginning of the month.

Police say at about 6.45pm on Wednesday, August 17, two men entered the dairy on Carlisle St in Greerton. One was armed with a pistol and one with a knife, which they thrust toward the shopkeepers. People are asked to contact Tauranga Police on 07 577 4300.

Teen arrested for kidnapping Police have arrested a 17-year-old man charged with the kidnapping of an 18-month-old from his Bay of Plenty home on Monday night.

The child was found uninjured around 8.15am on Tuesday. A large scale search was undertaken after Elisaia Kiff disappeared from his family’s Koutu home sometime between 10.15am and 2am. The man is not known to the family and police assure the public they are not looking for anyone else in relation to the kidnapping.

SunLive Comment of the Week ‘A serious problem’, posted by Sprocket on the story: “Bad chicken on sale”.

“This is clucking ridiculous – people shouldn’t have to be told not to cross-contaminate with chicken! It’s eggstrodinary that people don’t know this already.”

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The Weekend Sun

Friday 16 December 2016

5

Triathlons run in the family When Finlay Arnott lines up at Mount Maunganui’s Arataki Park to take part in the Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon event this Sunday, one very special spectator will understand the feelings he’s going through – his mum Sarndra, who took part in the same event 25 years ago.

“I love that Finlay wants to take part in the same race I did at about his age. It’s such a neat idea, and I’m so looking forward to watching him. His eyes light up when he sees his dad and I cheering him on; and I love that he wants to continue to achieve and improve himself.”

The idea for Finlay to enter the Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon this Sunday, December 18, came after the seven-year-old overheard his mum reminiscing about her own experience a few weeks ago.

“I wanted to do it when my mum told me about her doing it when she was little,” says Finlay.

“We’ve just moved here from Scotland, and it’s much nicer here because it’s warmer, so I can go and practise

outside more. “This is my first triathlon, and I want to give it a go because I like being fit and sporty.” Finlay’s excitement at taking part in the Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon is clear.

“I think I’m going to do better than Mum – I bet she was really slow, but I want to be fast!” says Finlay. “I like that Mum and Dad and Nana will all be there to watch me though, especially at the end. It’s nice when they cheer me on.

“I love training hard. I train on my bike with my sister, I run with my dad, and I swim with Mum so I can get stronger.”

While Finlay is loving the training, his sister Isla, at just five years old, can do no more than cheer her brother from the sidelines – for now.

“I wish I could recall more about how I felt on the day, but I’m absolutely sure it will all come flooding back when I see Finlay crossing the finish line,” says Sarndra, who says she just remembers wanting to catch up to the person in front of her – and the sun shining.

To register, visit: try.weetbix.co.nz to sign up for the Tauranga/Mt Maunganui TRYathlon being held at Arataki Park, on December 18, 2016.

Finlay, 7, and Sarndra Arnott get some practice in before their next big event.

Photo: Chris Callinan.

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The new Zespri building as seen from the library carpark Since Zespri announced it’s going ahead with the construction of a new $42.8 million headquarters in Maunganui Rd, the kiwifruit marketing company has been hosting a series of community briefings explaining what it’s all about.

While the shape and size of the building is established there are still details being discussed and settled, says Zespri chief financial officer David Hazelhurst.

The intention is for a sustainable building as far as energy use goes, and

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one that makes better use of the site and is neighbourhood-friendly.

Nearly half of the area of the new construction will be underground carparking, with traffic flows organised to reduce congestion, with traffic entering off Maunganui Rd and exiting onto Miro St. There will also be on-site parking for 190 cars.

The entire ground floor will be the public-Zespri interface, for visitors, tour groups and industry partners, while Zespri staff occupy the two upper floors.

City fireworks for New Year There will be two fireworks displays in Tauranga on New Year’s Eve, one on The Strand at 9.30pm for families and young children, and a larger display from the Wharepai Domain at midnight.

“They are having two,” says Mayor Greg Brownless. “One lot at 9.30pm. That’s because if we [Tauranga city Council] are going to get New Year’s Eve back to being a family thing, we have got to get something on earlier in the evening for young families.

“And if we are going to pay more than lip service to getting a family-oriented New Year’s Eve culture back, we should do it and not knock it on the head. “[Tauranga City councillor] Terry Molloy; he really drove it. He felt the last year’s one had been successful and we should do it again.”

Terry says the fireworks on The Strand will be part of a family evening with barbecues. There will be a bigger display from The Domain at midnight.

“It’s just the fireworks; I don’t even think they want people to go up there,” says Terry. “Just big fireworks display that can be seen from all around Tauranga.”

Public transport action needed now Tauranga needs urgent action on public transport, to head off becoming a mini-Auckland of traffic chaos in the very near future.

Two weeks ago I spent my entire Friday on the buses, to see for myself how easy it really is to go car-less in Tauranga.

The general descriptions of our local services ran from ‘not bad’ or ‘adequate’ through to ‘pretty good’, though the services appear to be about 10 minutes behind schedule because of heavier traffic.

Auckland Transport told me if they

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The Weekend Sun

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Wishing Wishing our clients clients our Merry Christmas aaMerry Christmas and safe New Year. and safe New Year.

could go back 30 years, they would allocate dedicated inter-modal spines for future public transport routes.

We, at New Zealand First, are calling for an inquiry into the future mobility of Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty, before hyper-immigration and intensification drive some options out of our reach.

The Weekend Sun

7

Piha’s Oscar Williams leads a pack of paddlers down the Mount Maunganui coast during the 12km ski leg of the 2015 Mount Monster surf lifesaving endurance race. Photo: Jamie Troughton/Dscribe Media.

Local knowledge helping invaders The Aussie contingent in this weekend’s New Zealand’s biggest surf lifesaving race will have some handy local knowledge to draw on.

Tomorrow’s Dexion-sponsored Mount Monster – a gruelling 25km, four-stage epic event along the stunning Mount Maunganui coastline – has attracted another quality field in its fourth year, with a squad from Queensland’s Mermaid Beach club joining the fray. Mermaid’s coach is former Mount local and professional ironman Mike Janes, who is bringing a handful of elite surf athletes to take on New Zealand’s best. The Monster starts and finishes on Mount Maunganui’s Main Beach, with a 5km beach run, a spectacular swim leg which

includes a jump off Moturiki Island’s blowhole, a 12km ski leg to Omanu and a 6km board paddle. Mermaid Beach ironmen James Lacy and Luke Cuff will be chasing individual glory, while the Kiwi challenge will be led by Midway’s Cory Taylor, defending champion Ben Cochrane from Omanu club and recentlycrowned world paddleboard champion Sam Shergold, from the Mount Maunganui club, who was third last year.

Cory, the 2013 champion, is competing against James and Luke on the Nutri-Grain Ironman series in Australia, with James currently sixth in the overall standings, having finished second and fifth in the last two rounds, Cory up to 11th and Luke in 17th.

James says the trip back to his old stomping ground is a great break from the hectic Australian scene.

“The season in Aussie is so much longer and we’ve been going hard since June, so this trip is about

getting outside the comfort zones.

We’re treating it like an intense training camp and race in the pre-Christmas break, as most guys switch off a little bit during the festive season.”

Tomorrow’s women’s field features the return of inaugural winner and ironwoman star Danielle McKenzie, who also has a gap in her schedule on the Summer of Surf series in Australia. She’ll try and dethrone two-time champion Kirsty Wannan, while a large field of under-19 females will be snapping at their heels.

The Mount Monster also features a unique prizemoney split, with $1000 going to the first open male and open female and a ‘Monster Pot’ – awarded to first overall in the male, female and teams based on the number of entries in each division.

Mount Monster is on tomorrow, December 17, at Mount Maunganui Main Beach. Racing starts at 10am.

Friday 16 December 2016

Friday 16 December 2016

The Weekend Sun

8

Christmas IN THE city

Alcohol and drug free Arataki

.

Michel Rawiri, Tamati Cameron, Taurua Faulkner, Natasha Davies and Regina celebrate the sportsground being declared alcohol and drug free. Photo: Bruce Barnard.

SANTA’S IN TOWN! SANTA’S STORYTIME Daily until Thur 22nd Dec 11.30am - 12pm in Goddards Centre Plus prizes for the kids!

SANTA’S AT THE BACH Daily until Thur 22nd Dec 12pm - 2pm in Red Square

Back in the day it was common practice for some sports teams to break at half-time and crack a couple of cold ones as a means to reward each other’s hard work, show appreciation and strengthen unity – and the Arataki sportsground was no different.

But that’s all changed now, with the Arataki sportsground recently being declared a drug and alcoholfree zone.

The decision to make the sportsground free of drugs and alcohol was made after discussions between representatives from Arataki Sports Club, Tauranga Whalers Rugby League club, Te

Bring your camera!

Runanga O Ngai Te Rangi Iwi Trust, Community Action Youth And Drugs and Tauranga City Council. Tauranga Whalers Rugby League club coordinator Regina Dee says it’s about time this change was made to the muchloved community grounds.

“I’m just glad that it’s happened now and it should have happened a long time ago,” says Regina.

“It’s just a great thing for our community as well.”

Signs positioned in plain sight telling visitors they are not allowed to drink or consume drugs on the sportsground will help support the ban.

“For many years there has been a normalised culture in Arataki, and probably throughout the nation, where we would head down to the local fields to support and

enjoy the aggressively competitive international sport of rugby, accompanied by a few lagers and brewskys,” says Taurua Faulkner, who is CAYAD manager at Ngai Te Rangi. “In many cases and different places, [alcohol] has led to some very confronting altercations between rivalries – some disrespectful words exchanged and directed at players, coaches, referees and opposing team supporters. All while the innocence of our kids and families are in amongst it,” says Taurua.

Arataki Rugby Sports president Charlie Russell thinks people will be “quite proud of the progress we’re making for our community”.

“It’s just a way of setting the standard of behaviour for any of the children heading into the area.”

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Christmas dinner is one of the biggest meals of the year; ham, chicken or turkey, numerous different salads and side dishes.

And that’s not to mention dessert.

But Christmas isn’t always the easiest time of year for some families.

Brigitte Mouat is making sure every Tauranga family has the chance to celebrate over Christmas dinner.

Arms of Angels is a charity Brigitte set up, and delivers one meal a week to nominated families in short-term need.

And Christmas is no different.

For $50, participants are able to provide a full Christmas dinner for a local family who might not

have been able to celebrate over dinner without them.

“In the Christmas packages that we do we have breakfast, snacks for the morning, a Christmas dinner, we do dessert, we do candy canes and Christmas crackers and little snacks for the kids.”

And this year, Brigitte is organising a shoebox gift collection for children in need.

For the same price as five coffees, participants can fill a shoebox full of gifts for a child and it will be delivered to them.

“It’s not expensive, even if you spend $20 you can still get some cool little things.”

For more information and to get involved, visit: www.facebook.com/armsofangelsnz

The Weekend Sun

Friday 16 December 2016

9

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It started out as a bit of Christmas oneupmanship between Shane Spalding and his father-in-law.

“The father-in-law moved into a new house up the road and said: ‘New house I must put some lights up’.

“Then I said: ‘I might put lights up’.

“He said: ‘I will put more up’. And I said: ‘You won’t put up as many as me’.”

It was good natured one-upmanship. And all us Santa-philes benefited.

Because 11 years and $14,000 later the tour buses are dropping by Shane’s Highlander Place home in Welcome Bay, and the vans full of retirement village residents are stopping by.

And anyone else who is entranced by the wonders of Santa and Christmas lights.

Shane’s Christmas lights are a showstopper – a two-storeyed, illuminated Rockefeller Plaza right here in the suburbs of Tauranga. “I believe in the joy of Christmas,” says Shane. “My girl who is 11-and-a-half says all her friends were trying to convince her Santa doesn’t exist. I asked her whether she believed and she said: ‘Yes’. And I said: ‘I do too’. I am, a big kid at heart.”

And when the lights start pulling the punters Shane gets in character – he puts on his red suit and white whiskers and goes out and mingles.

“I just enjoy doing it.” Shane has another 50 sets

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Left: Highlander Place by night. Above: A transformed Welcome Bay Vet Clinic.

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of lights waiting in the garage. “No, they won’t go up this year. But you will see them. I swap them round every year. And I have another 20 or so sets that I no longer use. I have started giving them away to the kids who come round.

“I believe in giving some pleasure to people who may not have much.”

And the neighbours have bought in. “I have encouraged them to put lights up. I have even given them some.” Highlander Place could become another Franklin Rd – Auckland’s central city street laden with Christmas lights.

And let’s not forget Shane’s gift to the city also adds another $120 to his electricity bill.

Down the road the Welcome Bay Vet Clinic is looking like Times Square.

“I started making the lights 15 years ago,” says vet John Ross. “My displays didn’t start well. But systems have improved. And I have a dog cocking its leg and having a piddle.”

Now there is a public expectation. The pressure is on John to continue and develop his Christmas lights display.

“My daughter played an angel and my son played Santa and they would give out toffees to passersby.

“Now we are giving out marshmallows to the old folk who stop by in the retirement village vans.”

It’s an added stress at a stressful time of year.

But the vet enjoys it. And so do the hundreds who stop by.

Little inspirations colouring classrooms Two lucky Tauranga pupils have won their share in the Sharpie prize packs through the Colour Your Classroom competition for Term 3.

Sylvia Roper, a Year 3 pupil from Mount Maunganui Primary, and Galaxie Whatarau, a Year 6 pupil from Greerton Village School, took out a prize for their classrooms and themselves for their creative entries in response to the question: ‘Who inspires you most in your life, and why?’.

around just to keep me safe and alive. That’s why he is the best dad ever,” her entry read.

Supported by OfficeMax, Colour Your Classroom encourages children to showcase their creativity by answering a question or colouring in an image.

The Term 3 competition saw more than 800 entries. Each prize pack has $250 worth of Sharpie, Paper Mate and Dymo products and $750 cash. Each student also received a Sharpie Fine 24-pack.

Sylvia wrote about her identical twin sister Delilah in her winning entry, explaining their close connection and how her sister inspires her to be kind and courageous. “Ever since I was born I have shared everything with my sister. I feel lucky to have a soulmate by my side,” Sylvia wrote in her entry.

Galaxie wrote about her dad in her winning entry, saying a big than you for being “the coolest dad ever”. “My dad is always

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The Weekend Sun

The Weekend Sun

11

Friday 16 December 2016

Carols, Santa and gift wrapping Get out your songsheets and your spectacles if you need them – because the Te Puke Anglican Church Christmas Carol Service is on this Sunday, December 18.

The event, at Te Puke Anglican Church on Jocelyn St from 10am, invite people young and old to come and hear the real story of Christmas told through readings and carols, and will be followed by a Christmas morning tea in the hall.

The on Monday, December 19 to Friday, December 23, there will be an epic Santa Grotto at Te Puke Library from 10am-noon. People can meet Santa at his library grotto, photos cost $5, and donate a new or good quality used toy to Te Puke Toy Library.

Lastly in Te Puke, on Wednesday, December 21 to Saturday, December 24 you can get your gifts wrapped at Te Puke Library from 10am-noon.

The place to be Ja Rule and Ashanti (above) and Sticky Fingers (below) are coming to the Mount this summer.

Mount Maunganui’s Soper Reserve seems to be the place to be this summer, with three big events scheduled to entertain partygoers this festive season.

The Mount Park Summer Series includes three major events starting with Ja Rule, Ashanti and Chingy – presented by Pato entertainment and Talk Later – at Soper Reserve on December 30.

On January 3, 2017, Little Big Events presents Beast of a Feast – a craft beer and food festival with live music featuring Electric Wire Hustle.

Presented by Pato entertainment and Audiology, Sticky Fingers and Hermitude – including Boot-leg Rascal, Summer Thieves and Mitch James – will conclude the summer series on January 6, 2017.

Event director Pato Alvarez says the idea behind the Mount Park Summer Series is to set Mount Maunganui as the number one destination this summer.

“The Mount is a popular place in the country, who doesn’t want to come to the Mount in the summer period?”

Pato says the Mount Park Summer Series will benefit the community by enticing a number of people from out of town to

spend, stay and play in the Bay while they’re here for the events.

“We’re also creating employment during the summer series, offering job opportunities including security and hospitality roles to name a few. Let’s not forget that the line-up includes some really big international names performing exclusive shows right here in the Mount.”

The support from residents has been incredible, says Pato.

“It gives residents something to at-tend during the summer period – plus they love the bands.”

For tickets to Ja Rule, Ashanti and Chingy, visit www.theticketfairy.com For tickets to Sticky Fingers and

Hermitude, visit www.ticketspace.co.nz For tickets to Beast of a Feat, visit www.eventfi nda.co.nz

The Weekend Sun has one double pass to Sticky Fingers and Hermitude on January 6, 2017, to give away to one lucky reader who can name one of the bands coming to the Mount as part of the Mount Park Summer Series?

Enter online at www.sunlive. co.nz under the competition section. Entries must be received by Wednesday, December 21.

Zoe Hunter

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The Weekend Sun

12

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Giving thanks – Maria, Malama and Tofi at St Enochs.

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Kawerau, Whakatāne, Tauranga and Rotorua.

“It’s such an exciting and inspirational story,” says Rae of the Tauranga Budget Advisory Service.

“It’s always wonderful working with people like Tofi, who are willing to act on good advice and new ideas and want to get ahead.”

What Maria’s gobsmacked about is her cash-strapped Mum had been slipping quietly out of the family home in the evening to attend financial competency courses – only spending what you are getting and not any more – and a housing assistance programme, about how to get your family into a home.

And Maria didn’t know a thing about it.

“I had no idea,” says Maria. “She would tell me to look after the kids, feed them and tuck them up.”

Maria was aware of the family’s dire financial circumstances. “But I wasn’t aware how deep it was.”

And the teenager is in awe.

“I am enormously proud of this woman. I am staggered and so proud of her accomplishments.

“She is always amazing to us and I would never have another mum besides this Mum.” The Weekend Sun first met Nuutofi Atoa – nicknamed Tofi – six weeks ago. She was broken, defeated and demoralised.

She had lost her husband – the provider, the financial organiser, the man who spoke for the Atoas, the family pillar.

But now her life was disintegrating, she was holding

down a part-time night cleaning job, running a family and struggling with the finances. Tofi became quiet and withdrawn – until she decided to seek help and take charge of her life again.

Then she met Rae at the Budget Advisory Service.

“I really needed someone to be there” says Tofi. “Someone to listen when I poured my heart out.” Rae listened and then came six weeks of courses – shopping, budgeting, wants versus needs, a practical hands-on course.

“Now here’s a real awareness,” says Rae. “A real consciousness where the money is going, how it’s being spent and no credit cards.

She is spending what she is getting and not a cent more.”

“I am so grateful to Rae – and humble, I don’t know what my life would have been like without her.” And all the time Maria played Mum to her three siblings.

“I wouldn’t say that. I just stepped up when needed,” says Maria.

“I was being a responsible older sister, a role model, what any good person would do.”

At the same time Maria was studying for her school exams.

Then Tofi’s sister Malama set aside her family responsibilities in Samoa to assist the Tauranga family. “That’s the culture, that’s the Samoan way,” says Maria.

“That’s family.”

The money’s trickling in and the Atoas are getting back on track.

“I’ve been able to take on more shifts because Malama can care for my little family at night.

“I have even taken on some full eight-hour shifts. Longer hours, more pay, less debt.”

And again a selfless Maria is chipping in. She has a part-time job at Burger King.

“I just wanted her to have a life of her own,” says Tofi.

“Now she has some money of her own I want her to go and explore and do stuff with her friends, enjoy a teenage life.”

But no. “I give Mum at least half what I earn because I can see how hard it is being a single mum.”

Maria earns the minimum wage and depending on hours, she brings a modest part-time income.

“The pay that I get, well I don’t need that much money,” says Maria. Last year, because of circumstances, the family had a difficult Christmas.

This year will be different.

And Santa has delivered early on another level for this family.

They have qualified for a Habitat for Humanity house.

The organisation gives people a hand-up to owning their own home. It’ll be built in Greerton early next year.

The Tauranga Budget Advisory Service is at 155 17th Ave, Tauranga South.

Call them on 07 578 0969.

They’re open from 9am-3.30pm.

BAY OVAL DECEMBER 18,27,29

The Weekend Sun

Dr Bryce Kihirini.

Phone service proving a hit A new after-hours medical service is giving patients peace of mind as well as saving them time and money.

That is the message from a GP whose patients are benefiting from the free telephone nurse triage service launched in the Western Bay of Plenty in early September. All 30 of the Western Bay’s GP practices signed up to the scheme. It helps people get fast, effective advice from a registered nurse any time of the day simply by calling their GP practice number.

A similar service was already in operation in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

“The GPs at our practice all support it,” says Dr Bryce Kihirini, a GP for Nga Kakano Foundation in Te Puke.

“There is no GP service after 5pm in Te Puke so if our patients have an issue they have to make the

journey to Tauranga. It’s a long way to go and can be an unnecessary expense for some families.

“Having this service gives them something to try before making the decision to go.”

Accessing the service is easy, simply ring your GP practice number any time of day.

“If the call is after-hours it will be automatically re-directed to a qualified nurse, who will discuss your treatment options and point you in the right direction for the care you need.

“It gives people peace of mind if they’re wavering about whether to go or not,” says Bryce.

All you need to remember is to ‘Phone your GP 24/7’.”

People are being advised to save their GP’s number to their mobile phone so they have it handy when needed.

If the issue is a medical emergency the triage service will be able to connect patients with an ambulance.

Good things come to those who wait As the adage goes: ‘Good things take time’. That’s why two Tauranga women are teaming up now to begin organising next year’s The Ladies Charity Luncheon.

Drawing on their combined event management experience, Wendy Robertson and Leona Smith have put together what they believe will be a not-to-be-missed event.

Next year’s The Ladies Charity Luncheon will raise funds for two Tauranga youth charities – Hawaiki Rising Voyaging Trust and Tauranga Riding for Disabled.

Through ocean sailing experiences and Polynesian voyaging waka, Hawaiki Rising Voyaging Trust aims to increase understanding and

Friday 16 December 2016

13

appreciation for Maori Culture, traditions, knowledge and world view for youths.

While Tauranga Riding for the Disabled provides therapeutic horse-related activities for children and adults with physical, mental, cognitive, social or behavioural needs. This includes horse riding, horsemanship and vocational skills.

Having previously organised DARE to Fight for Youth Corporate boxing events and The Ladies Long Lunch, Wendy is very excited to be organising the 2017 event with Leona to bring Bay of Plenty women a “ladies’ event like no other”.

Leona’s event management experience includes being one of the former organiser’s of the Tauranga Police CIB Luncheon.

The Ladies Charity Luncheon will be held at ASB Arena, Baypark, on Friday, June 9, 2017, from 12pm-5pm. The event will include a charity auction, a fashion parade, two inspirational female speakers, fine dining, entertainment and “of course amazing company”.

For more information, to donate to this event or for tickets, email: wendy@communityevents.co.nz or Leona@communityevents.co.nz or visit The Ladies Charity Luncheon Facebook page at: www.facebook. com/TgaCharityLuncheon

In the spirit of giving The children at Pillans Point School in Otumoetai have been getting involved in an ‘It’s Cool to be Kind’ campaign in the run up to Christmas.

Students were to bring wrapped

new gifts to school and all gifts were donated to Bay of Plenty Sexual Assault Support Services, Women’s Refuge and Shakti Ethnic Women’s Refuge.

Friday 16 December 2016

The Weekend Sun

14

Speedway offers action-packed holiday fun Speedway enthusiasts are encouraged to buckle in for an exciting line-up of entertainment planned for the holiday season at Baypark Family Speedway.

Finishing off 2016 is the International Midget Series and Saloon Speedweek Series at Baypark Family Speedway on Friday, December 30, from 6.30pm.

Baypark Family Speedway promoter Bernie Gillon says audiences can expect the best Midget car drivers from

the United States and Australia taking on New Zealand’s top drivers in the final race meeting of the year.

“There’s also the Valvoline Saloon Car Speedweek series featuring 24 of the best saloon car drivers in the North Island. Also racing are sprint cars, Formula 2 Midgets and Super Saloons.”

Starting 2017 off with a bang will be the Freestyle Moto X and Saloon Car series on January 4.

The Flying Men on their freestyle motocross bikes return to Baypark Family Speedway to entertain the crowd from 6.30pm onwards.

“Sit just metres from deathdefying jumps and stunts in an action-packed, thrilling motor racing experience,” says Bernie.

Also racing will be the saloon car series, sprint cars, stock cars, mini stocks and six-shooter V6 wingless sprint cars.

Then the Demolition Derby and Champion of Champions Sprint Car Series takes to the terracotta

The final speedway meeting is on December 30, followed by some spectacular events scheduled for 2017. will be travelling from all over track on January 7, 2017, from the country to try to take to 6.30pm, when road rage rules as the podium at Baypark Family drivers take out their aggression Speedway, from 6.30pm. on each other as well as the Bernie says this is a “must-see Champion of Champion Sprint Car Series. Also racing are saloons, family-friendly, action-packed, thrilling motor racing experience”. mini stocks and six-shooter V6 Also racing are super saloons, wingless sprint cars. stock cars, six-shooter V6 wingless And January 14 is the New sprint cars, ministocks and golden Zealand Saloon Car Grand oldie stock cars. For details visit: Prix at Baypark. Here, New www.bayparkspeedway.co.nz Zealand’s best saloon car drivers

Affordable housing part 2 – a new way of building

FAST, G THRILLINN! ACTIO

larger used car market and prices plummeted. The same can be done with sourcing high quality homes prefabricated in China and assembled here.

By opening up the volume produced by Chinese factories to the New Zealand market we can drive down the price of building.

We sell globally, we shouldn’t be afraid to purchase globally too.

If current trends continue and we end up living in a country with more people renting than owning their own home the nature of our communities will change.

It’s harder to build relationships with your neighbours if they or you are tenants without the

Last week I discussed the need to change the law to give councils the ability to require a percentage of sections in new subdivisions to be sold without covenants; enabling affordable homes to be built again. Even so, the cost of building in New Zealand is higher than both America and Australia.

Despite an abundance of timber, our small population and limited competition between suppliers ensures higher building prices.

To drive prices down we need to ‘piggy-back’ off a larger economy.

Consider the price of used cars before and after restrictions on Japanese imports were dropped.

We gained access to a much

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Community groups are crying out for volunteers but as our population is more transient it’s hard for them to keep good members.

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The Weekend Sun

Friday 16 December 2016

15

Tauranga City Tsunami Evacuation Zones Latest evacuation maps for Mount, Bayfair, Papamoa and Papamoa East are online at www.tauranga.govt.nz/tsunami

TSUNAMI EVACUATION ZONES: Papamoa

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3 things you need to know to survive a tsunami 1

WHEN TO EVACUATE

The first tsunami warning is an earthquake A tsunami could arrive 50 minutes after a major earthquake. Don’t wait for an official warning.

2

WHERE TO EVACUATE Inland or high ground

Walk inland or to high ground.

Use the Tauranga City tsunami evacuation maps to identify your nearest safe area or safe location ahead of time.

3

HOW TO EVACUATE Use your feet

In a big tsunami evacuation there will be crippling traffic jams. Most people should be able to walk to a safe area or safe location within 40 minutes.

Tsunami warning signs

Make a plan with your neighbours

• Any earthquake that lasts LONGER than a minute.

With only 50 minutes, emergency services will not be able to get you out in time. Make a plan with your neighbours, especially if you know they will need assistance getting to safety.

• A big earthquake that is STRONG enough to knock you off your feet.

• Strange ocean behaviour: loud or strange noises, sudden changes in sea level or ocean drawing away from the shore.

If the earthquake is LONG or STRONG, you need to get GONE.

What about alert systems and sirens?

Warning systems are useful for tsunami that come would from regional or distance sources (greater than 2 hours away). Civil Defence has a suite of warning systems. Text alerts are available: Subscribe to emergency alerts at www.bopcivildefence.govt.nz/

Red zone – You should always evacuate the red zone if there is any sort of tsunami warning, even if it is just a text from your friends.

While Tauranga City Council is looking into different alerting options, a big earthquake is the first warning for the tsunami we are most concerned about. The most important thing is to be aware of the natural warning signs so that you can make your own decision to evacuate straight away if there is an earthquake.

Orange zone – In a formal evacuation for a tsunami that is more than 2 hours away, Civil Defence may ask you to move from the orange zone into the yellow zone.

What about Western Bay of Plenty District Council Evacuation zones?

Yellow zone – A devastating local source tsunami will probably flood the yellow zone. There will be no time for official warnings. After a major earthquake it will take about 50 minutes for this tsunami to reach the coast, plus another 30 minutes to flood the yellow zone.

Western Bay evacuation maps are online at www.westernbay.govt.nz, search for: “quick evacuation maps”.

Maps for the Bay of Plenty region are listed at bopcivildefence.govt.nz

Tsunami evacuation zones

Are you prepared for an emergency?

More information about getting ready at these websites: www.getthru.govt.nz | www.happens.nz | www.bopcivildefence.govt.nz

For Text Alerts Text TA or WB to 2028

Friday 16 December 2016

The Weekend Sun

16

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Trista Somervell from NZ Travel Brokers Tauranga can help you make the most of your next adventure – and she and her team are definitely well-suited for the job.

“I’ve been in the top 10 brokers in the NZ Travel Brokers awards since 2011 and at this year’s NZ Travel Brokers awards conference our team took a number of awards.”

With a first place award in the 2016 NZ Travel Brokers awards as well as Broker of the Year, Top Broker Sales for Hawaiian Airlines, Virgin Australia and QBE Travel Insurance, and third place in United Airlines, Trista and her team can help you plan the perfect getaway.

Trista says being a broker means she and her team have access to a wide range of suppliers and wholesalers

for putting together amazing holiday packages and group travel. “Having been to more than 50 countries myself and my staff another dozen, we can really give you first-hand knowledge of the places you want to see.

“Plus with our extensive network of suppliers, it’s only one phone call for us to find someone who has been to a destination we haven’t.”

And Trista’s clients can rest easy – they are bonded members of the Travel Agents Association of New Zealand, meaning traveller’s money can’t go missing.

“Not all brokers are bonded members of TAANZ and we are proud to be TAANZ bonded,” says Tris-ta.

For more information and to book your next holiday, contact Trista at: Trista@ nztravelbrokers.co.nz

d usban ing h m NZ n n i dw fro Awar ife team , Trista w s r d e . k n a l Bro ervell Trave ance Som and L

There’s more Kiwis holidaying overseas New Zealand residents took 1.09 million overseas holiday trips in the September 2016 year, according to Statistics New Zealand. This was 71,200 more holiday trips than in the September 2015 year.

“More New Zealand residents travelling to the Cook Islands, Australia, and Fiji helped drive this increase,” says Statistics NZ population statistics manager Jo-Anne Skinner.

In September 2016, New Zealand residents made 267,900 trips overseas – a new record for the month and a 14 per cent increase from September 2015.

Plus Australian holidaymakers have help visitor arrivals to New Zealand increase in September 2016.

An increase in holidaymakers from across the Tasman – up 10 per cent to 52,800 – helped set a new September record of

TRISTA & LANCE SOMERVELL

245,100 visitor arrivals. These, along with holidaymakers from the United States, Malaysia, and Korea contributed to 16,200 more arrivals into NZ for holidaying compared with September 2015.

In the September 2016 year, visitor arrivals hit a record 3.39 million, up 11 per cent from the September 2015 year.

This was driven by increases in visitor arrivals from Australia, China, and the US.

The Weekend Sun

Friday 16 December 2016

17

On the water for the last seventy years You may wonder why at age 75 Noel Haszard just can’t keep off the water. But there’s a logical explanation. He caught the boating bug early.

“My father took me fishing when I was five. And his father took him before him too,” says Noel, who has been on the water for the last 70 years.

“My grandfather used to be an engineer surveyor in Waihi but he had a little bivvy out here [Tanners Point] – oh, it must’ve been just after the start of this century, the early-1900s. So my father used to come out here as a kid, and later on he had holidays here,” says Noel, who lives at Tanners Point.

“My dad took me fishing and all of us boys have been keen on the water over the years. We were brought up in boats – all sorts of boats. But in the early days it was an old clinker we had.”

Now Noel’s clocked up his 21st year with the Bay of Plenty Regional Council – including 19 spent as a volunteer safer boating advisor, educating boaties from Omokoroa to Waihi Beach on how to be safe on the water.

So how did this start? Noel had lived in Waihi for 50 years working as an electrician before moving to Tanners Point with wife Maureen about 22 years ago.

“When I first got here [Tanners Point] there was chap called Tim Suckling, who was a launch warden – that’s what they called a harbour warden in those days. And he said: ‘Do you want to give me hand?”.

“I ended up starting in an education role. And it still is I suppose, come to think of it.”

When Noel first started helping out it was from his own vessel and using his own petrol.

“Back then we used to fly a harbour master flag when we were patrolling. These days we are paired up with others, work from dedicated patrol vessels and are really well trained and equipped. We do a much better job as a result.

“Our area ranges from Omokoroa right up to the top of Athenree – and about 12 miles out to sea. But we don’t go out to sea very often.”

Noel says today’s boaties are far more safetyconscious than they were two decades ago.

“There was a scant regard for lifejackets back in those days,” says Noel, who reckons the common attitude was ‘she’ll be right mate’.

“Whereas now we take boating safety quite seriously. For example, last year when I was doing my patrols lifejacket compliance was nearly 100 per cent.”

“It doesn’t mean to all were wearing them – but they had them in the vessels. I didn’t ever think we would win that battle but we are. There is an increasing number wearing them too.”

Noel, who has also been part of Waihi Beach Volunteer Coastguard for the last 16 years, says people’s attitudes have changed too.

“The change is for the better. We [harbour patrollers] used to be looked upon as the enemy, but now people are pleased to see us on the water doing our job.

“What it boils down to is education. All the signs, channel markers and communications the council has organised to help educate folk about how to be safe on the water appears to be sinking in. There has been a remarkable turnaround.”

And is there a standout fact people don’t realise about being safe on the water? “I think the thing is thing can go wrong so quickly,” says Noel.

“For example, a wave on the entrance of Tauranga Harbour can swamp your boat and put water into the front of your boat within three or four seconds.

“But in the harbour the key is to keep your lookout – and even the wake from a large boat will tip a little dinghy

Noel Haszard, launching his boat from Tanners Point for a fish.

Photo: Elaine Fisher.

over.”And there’s many sea kayakers around too these days that boaties need to be aware of. “Kayaks are very vulnerable in the water.”

Noel is still on the patrol roster - and with summer approaching a busy season is ahead – educating boaties to keep safe.

“Things will start warming up a few weeks before Christmas – and go right to Easter.”

And it still stuns Noel how many

people go boating these days. “We’ve noticed a lot of families go boating these days.” Compared to 20 years ago just being dad going out to catch a feed.

“Now, it’s family affair.”

If you are a qualified skipper or experienced boatie and want more information on what a harbour warden or safer boating advisor does and how to become one, call Daniel Rapson at BOPRC on 0800 884 880.

Merle Foster

Friday 16 December 2016

The Weekend Sun

18

Donations worth $50K making summer safer Mount Maunganui beaches will be safer this summer thanks to the Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service receiving more than $50,000 worth of valuable equipment from various sources.

Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service general manager Glenn Bradley says the club has been donated plenty of potentially lifesaving pieces of equipment and training opportunities.

Donations include an All-Terrain Vehicle from the Mackay Strathnaver Trust, lifeguard uniforms, sun shelters

and operational costs for volunteer patrols covered

by Marra Construction, a comprehensive ATV driver training programme donated by Guardian Trust, a jetski donated by the Southern Trust and Maisey Family Trust, and first aid equipment and training.

The ATV and jetski were purchased at a heavily discounted rate from Action Sports Direct.

Glenn says each and every donation will be put to good use during this summer and beyond.

“The ATV will be used to patrol the 5km coastline stretch from Mount Main Beach down toward Omanu. The stretch of coastline down to Omanu often has a number of rips, gutters and other hazards that need to be regularly monitored by our lifeguards roving patrols.”

“The jetski will be used as a coaching resource to improve both the technical aspects and health and safety management when coaching a large group of training lifeguard athletes.”

The significance of these donations hasn’t been lost on the Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service.

“This type of funding is invaluable to us as a selffunded, volunteer-based organisation,” says Glenn.

“We have a vision of providing world class lifeguarding services and we require significant resources to achieve this.

“The health and safety of our lifeguards is paramount so we must be sure their training matches the quality of the equipment we strive to provide for them to use.”

t accepts a quad bike and rds head coach John Bryan gua life ui gan un Ma t rd Isaac Marshall. un Mo ion Sports Direct and lifegua jetski from Sean Joyce of Act

As always: ‘If in doubt, don’t go out’ Bob Dylan may have won a Nobel Prize for Literature, but when it comes to safer boating advice, you’re far better off with Kiwi music legend Neil Finn.

Bob suggests the answer is “blowing in the wind”, but in real life it pays to check with someone who can provide a more accurate weather forecast before heading out on the water.

While Kiwi boaties may not be able to “take the weather” with them, there are websites, VHF channels, and apps to ensure you are better prepared, and only go

out if it’s safe. The MetService Marine app has proved a hit since being released in 2014 - with nearly 170,000 downloads.

It is accessed more than 250,000 times a month during summer, and downloaded by nearly 5000 new users each month.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council Safer Boating Officer Tony Pearce says knowing what the weather and tide is going to do is a key part of safe boating.

“Marine forecasts are different to land and general forecasts.

Conditions can change very quickly out on the water, and boaties need to be aware of what weather is on the way. As always, if in doubt

don’t go out.” “Our message for this summer is Prep your Boat, Check your Gear and Know the Rules - including the current local Navigation Safety Bylaw.”

To get marine weather and tide information, download the apps MetService Marine and Marine Mate; listen to VHF Radio on Rotorua Lakes VHF: 02, Tauranga/ Maketu VHF CH: 01, Waihau Bay VHF: 65, Whakatane/Opotiki VHF CH: 18, Waihi Beach VHF CH: 07; or visit www.metservice.co.nz, www.porttauranga.co.nz/harbour-conditions, www.windguru.cz, and www.buoyweather.com

*Terms & Conditions Apply

The Weekend Sun

Friday 16 December 2016

19

Couple’s ten-year sail around the world In Cuba the going rate for a bucket full of crayfish tails, 30-40 tails, is one litre of engine oil. Tauranga sailors Eric and Cathy Gray tried to talk them up and got the rate to a can of beer for a crayfish body.

The bargain was made at one of their ports of call during a 10-year round-the-world voyage.

The couple have returned to Tauranga on board their yacht ‘Erica’ this week.

They sailed out of Tauranga in 2006, before the Rena struck the Astrolabe Reef, and when there was only one harbour bridge.

Eric and Cathy achieved what they set out to do, in the same boat which they intend to keep as their home. They’ve also collected many memories and stories to tell. “We don’t want to live in a house,” says Cathy. Erica, is the 12m cutter Eric designed and they built together. There were a few plan changes along the way. They headed for Tonga and turned left, spending four years along the Australian Coast with side trips to the Louisiade Archipelago before journeying through Indonesia to Thailand and back and heading out across the Indian Ocean to Madagascar.

The original plan was to enter the Mediterranean via the Red Sea, and then go up through Europe via the river systems and canals.

Erica was built shoal draft, drawing 1.3m with the centreboard up and a low mast so they could sail under bridges. But reports of Somalian pirates off the Red Sea, put them off and they never sailed the Mediterranean.

Instead they crossed the Indian Ocean, calling at Madagascar, south Africa Cathy and Eric in 20 and Namibia before 06 before their voyage. crossing the Atlantic and

exploring the Bahamas. Erica’s canal boat design meant they had no trouble with the Intracoastal waterway, 3000km of coastal canal from the Gulf of Mexico continuing up the eastern seaboard of the USA. They also crossed Florida using the Okeechobee waterway to get from St Lucie to the Gulf of Mexico.

“The Americans are so hospitable,” says Eric.

It wasn’t always just the two of them, family and friends accompanied them on the major crossings and Cathy returned to Australia for work whenever they needed more money while Eric maintained the boat.

They originally thought it would be the other way round that Eric the boatbuilder would be getting the work. “Most cruisers do their own maintenance or cheque book it,” says Eric.

And the cheque book cruisers prefer to work through boat yards.

Over ten years there have been few changes to Erica.

There’s a new console, and a down-wind sail.

“When we left New Zealand all our sailing was to windward,” says Eric.

“If you go for a weekend sail to the Mayor of the Barrier it’s against the wind.”

But in the tropics they cruise with the trade winds,

rd Erica Cathy and Eric Gray on boa a. at Tauranga Bridge Marin

Prep your boat, check your gear, know the rules Thousands of boats take to Bay of Plenty waterways every summer and for Bay of Plenty Regional Council, tasked with boating safety, it’s an incredibly busy time.

So now is a great opportunity to remind boaties to dust of the safety gear and ensure its all in working order.

Bay of Plenty Harbourmaster Peter Buell says this summer the Maritime Team will start promoting three simple messages

that will save lives: ‘Prep you boat, check your gear and know the rules’.

Peter’s top tips ahead of the season include: • Prep your boat - service your engine, check and change the fuel, check the battery, and generally give the boat a good once-over.

• Check your gear - make sure your lifejackets are still fit for purpose and you have enough,

service any inflatable lifejackets and ensure you have two reliable forms of communication equipment that will work when wet.

• Know the rules - ensure you know the rules of the road on the water for Bay of Plenty.

“As always, before you hit the water check the marine weather tide forecast and always tell someone where you are going and when you will be back,” says Peter.

which are coming from behind, so they added another sail which they can goose-wing for downwind sailing.

Erica’s new sail wardrobe was prompted by a collision with three

whales off the African coast, says Cathy.

Eric says they struck one whale and slid off the backs of two others. The mainsail split on the collision and the genoa split on the forced gybe.

Andrew Campbell

Friday 16 December 2016

The Weekend Sun

20

Festivities at the Mount Mount Mainstreet is about to get festive, and Mount Mainstreet manager Ingrid Fleming wants everyone to know.

Head over to Mount Mainstreet on Thursday, December 22, for an evening of late-night shopping, food, activities and cruise ships.

“On the Thursday night we have late-night shopping, we’ll be staying open until 9pm, and it just so happens that we have three cruise ships in.

“It’ll be a really awesome night for locals to come on in and do some shopping and they may choose to have some dinner, and then watch the boats sail out,” says Ingrid.

“It’s quite a special night here in the Mount. We’re going to have some carol singing, a fire dancing performance at dusk, and more.”

Then on December 23 and 24 you can meet the red man himself on Mount Mainstreet between 11am-2.30pm both days.

Santa will be sitting in his big purple chair waiting to hear Christmas wish-lists.

“He’s the real deal, he’s the real Santa,” says Ingrid.

“Parents can take a photo of their child with Santa, they just need to take it on their phone.”

There’s no charge to get a photo with Santa in the Mount.

And for extra cheer, children can enter a colouring competition.

“There’s the chance to go in the draw to

win a ride with Santa on the Pepi Toot train – all decorated and Christmassy – around the Mount.

“What child wouldn’t want a ride in a train with Santa on board?”

And if you don’t win the ride with Santa, you may be able to ride the train for ride anyway…just without Santa on board.

For more information, visit: www.mountmaunganui.co.nz

Amber Kay, 6, and sister Kara Kay, 3, riding with Santa.

Photo: Chris Callinan.

Add some splash to the school holidays When the school holidays arrive, you will find the O’Neill Surf Academy team at the beach, running their school holiday programme to keep the kids busy, active and happy during the holidays.

y e Hi s Kd

“Our popular programmes are all about the kids having loads of fun learning to surf, while at the same time learning how to be safer in the ocean,” says Simon Clowes from O’Neill Surf Academy.

from beach to boutique

With qualified and experienced surf coaches running the show, the kids will be in good hands receiving lots of encouragement and tips with the occasional high five.

So why not meet new friends and catch the surfing bug this summer? The programme caters for beginners to those who have some previous surfing experience.

With the wetsuit and surfboard provided, all you parents need to do is get kids to the beach and let the O’Neill Surf Academy team ing to surf in a do the rest. rn lea ll sca ne Se m Ca programme.

For more information, email: previous holiday surf surf@oneillsurfacademy.co.nz

The Weekend Sun

21

Friday 16 December 2016

Friday 16 December 2016

The Weekend Sun

22

Firewood for Grandma – it’s a cracker!

What do you get Grandma for Christmas? If you want something to Lion Ken Evans says the club has shifted to really spin her wheels next winter the Lions Club of Tauranga City a new firewood chopping depot in Greerton – and they’re ready to deliver copious Sunrise has the perfect gift – firewood, delivered to her house. amounts of firewood and raise money for the local foodbank and other charities.

Ken says the club bought two 20ft shipping containers for all of their firewood cutting equipment at their new base and they’re sawing up wood faster than a bunch of beavers.

The Lions sell 2m3 of firewood for $200 and deliver it free to your home within the city, with additional charges for further afield.

“We did 130 loads of firewood last year – that’s two crates per delivery – that’s a lot of firewood,” says Ken, who says the club moved after their old Joyce Rd farm base was sold.

People are already wisely stockpiling firewood for next winter. “We’ve got it halfdry and if they get in their sheds and dry it off it will be perfect for this winter.”

Ken says it’s a present that will pay off.

“It’s a great Christmas present for Grandma – what are you going to get her? Let’s get firewood and load it in the shed and she’ll be so happy.”

And the Lions just love it, says Ken. “It’s comradeship, we get some exercise; and we make some money for the community.”

Tauranga City Sunrise Lion Evans, Tony Wilkinson s Club members Ken , Bruce Fu Vincent, and Bruce Bo rze, David lton.

LAST OUTLET FOR 2016! a Pacific n Garde e Centr

MASSIVE FASHION FACTORY

OUTLET SALE Sat 17th Dec 9am - 3pm

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Mt Maunganui College

• DESIGNER CLOTHING • FABRIC • JEWELLERY • HOMEWARE & MORE! re Repertoi

www.repertoire.co.nz

FRENCH COUNTRY C O L L E C T I O N S

The Weekend Sun

23

Friday 16 December 2016

All the banter and balderdash aside, Chris is a thinking man, a well-read, smart and funny man.

He is a work colleague and I consider him a friend.

So when I asked him what he wanted for Christmas, hand went to chin, the brow furrowed and he took the question away and pondered it thoroughly. And for three days.

When he came back to me, Chris’ choice of Christmas present was something money could not buy, something that could not be wrapped and slipped under the tree. It was a forlorn hope.

“I have a great family, a house, a car, a telly and a fridge that will be stocked with plenty of ham, chicken and beer,” said Chris. “So for Christmas I am not wanting any great treats. For me, selfish me, what would be awesome is a simple Christmas card. That would make my Christmas.”

But his Christmas card would have to be from someone quite special, a long-gone friend but someone who retains a special place.

“His name is Allan. He lived next-door and his Dad called him ‘Woofy’. I never knew why.

We grew up together by the beach in Wellington. From about age four we played in the sand and on the rocks, in the heat of our two-week long, Wellington summer and in the cold southerly winds of winter.

“We killed the evil Sherriff of Nottingham’s knights with home-made wooden swords, built roads in the sand for our Dinky toys, threw rocks at the seagulls and each other, built bonfires and threw double happys at anyone that wouldn’t clip our ears. We lived in each other’s homes, never knocked, we just waltzed in and out as my door was his and his mine.

“Allan was my best mate.

We went to different schools but spent all our spare time and holidays together. “Allan was smart, fearless and funny.

He could play the piano at six and all I did was play with the metronome, waiting while he went through practice scales and tunes. Then it was outside, over to the beach or up into the big pohutukawa trees in their front yard which, 60 years on, are still there.

“When I was about 11 his dad, a cancer specialist, accepted a position in Cleveland, Ohio.

So Allan, his mum and dad, his brother and four sisters moved to the United States.

“We kept in touch till I was at college but I have not heard from him in more than 50 years.”

So why doesn’t Chris just Google or hunt him down over the internet? It’s difficult to hide or go missing these days.

“It wouldn’t be the same as getting a card from him at Christmas; telling me how his life has gone, if he’s married,

S1650kdisland

All I want for Christmas…

The very cute Chris.

divorced, wealthy, broke or a coke head. Whatever, it wouldn’t matter as those days were simple, innocent and fun and he was my best friend.”

If this message ever filtered through to Allan, I am sure a card would be dispatched pronto.

Then there would be 50 years to fill in, those beers in Chris’ fridge would be drunk and many blokes’ stories and lies told.

Do you have a special Christmas request you would like to share?

Email: hunter@thesun.co.nz Hunter Wells

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The Weekend Sun

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Homes o CEO Hil f Hope ar with Em y Price il Amy Hor y and ak, who sold deco and don rations ated they rais $400 Homes o ed to f Hope.

Phot o: Bruce B arnard.

You can gift a home to a child this Christmas Whether you’re buying presents or celebrating the festive season with a work do, barbecue or get-together – there’s another way you can gift a happy Christmas to a child in the community who needs it most.

Homes of Hopes has a new fundraiser where it asks the community to raise funds for the not-for-profit by hosting Christmas-themed events or activities at this time of year.

CEO Hilary Price says their target is to raise $100,000 during Christmas and into the New Year in order to assist many more children. The local foster care service that provides loving, stable homes to children for as long as they need it – and prevents brothers and sisters from being separated – has had to turn away more than 30 children in the last four months due to increasing demand.

Pressure

“We’ve had to turn away children in the past – but never to this extent,” says Hilary.

“There has been a lot of pressure in the Bay in regards to vulnerable children – and we’re feeling that too.”

Why? “Reasons are many and various,” says Hilary.

“If you imagine of a family trying to find reasonable housing – you might be looking at overcrowding, low incomes and financial affordability issues.

“And centre-stage are drug and alcohol situations, which create very unsafe environments for children. And adults not taking responsible steps to ensure their children are safe.”

Homes of Hope is a registered charity and although it receives government support, Hilary says this isn’t guaranteed “and as a maximum we receive less than half the funds we need”.

So Hilary and her team have a new fundraiser people can easily add to their already-planned festive celebrations.

“At this time of year the community is so wonderful at being supportive and being creative – and often people are doing things already.”

“For example, the Weet-Bix triathlon – some families may want to use the opportunity of their child entering to raise funds for Homes of Hope – and help a child who hasn’t had the blessing of a stable family life.

“Whether people would like to make a donation in lieu of a gift, or maybe they’re having a Christmas barbecue and pass a hat around –

any little donations will help us.”

“We’d love to be able to offer more children homes and places of safety,” says Hilary.

The Homes of Hope website has a new ‘Fundraise for Us’ section. “This allows you to start a fundraiser of your own by creating your own fundraising page.

“We’ve also put together a leaflet full of Christmas-themed fundraising ideas.

Fundraise

People not tech-savvy can call volunteer Hayden McLean on 027 444 1700 for IT assistance.

“We want you to have fun, raise awareness of Homes of Hope and help raise enough money for us to help every child that desperately needs our care in 2017.”

Hilary worries about the children they’ve turned away. “We have the only homes in Tauranga that can care for large sibling groups, so I hope the children we had to turn away were not split up, but unfortunately experience has shown me this is likely.

“No child should be waking up on Christmas day without their brothers or sisters – it is bad enough they’ve had to be removed from home for their safety.”

To set up a fundraiser or make a donation, see: www.homesofhope. org.nz/how-you-can-help/ Merle Foster fundraise-for-us/

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Experience the gift of giving At this time of year most kids are busy dreaming about all of the presents they’re going to wake up to on Christmas Day. But there are some who know others aren’t as fortunate as them, so decide to do a little giving of their own.

That was what Papamoa mum Arna Conder found when her four-year-old daughter Abbie-Lee Conder asked her if some people go without at Christmas.

“It was completely out of the blue. One day she came up to me with a really sad look on her face and said: ‘Mum, some people don’t get presents, do they?’ And I told her that was right.”

Abbie-Lee asked if she and her brothers could go out and buy presents for someone else, and Arna agreed.

“I took them shopping. I stood

Michael, 9, Matth Abbie-Lee Conder ew, 6, and , 4, with the gifts they chose for othe r kids.

them in a line and told them they were choosing for someone else. They had to choose something they would like, but had to give away.

“I did give them a limit of $20 each, though, after one of my sons decided he wanted to buy a PS4,” laughs Arna.

The three siblings ended up finding things they would have appreciated themselves. That just left the question of who to give to.

“I really had no idea what to do at that point, so I put it up on Facebook to get some ideas from friends and family.

“We had lots of good suggestions, including taking them to the local school principal or Police station, because they would know families in need.

“Then a friend got in touch about a family whose father is in the hospice.

“So we gave the boys’ presents to that family, as they had sons around the same age.”

Meanwhile, Abbie-Lee’s present went to the local kindergarten.

Arna says finances can be a bit tough for some people, especially around Christmas.

“Housing increases haven’t necessarily reflected wage increases, so putting presents on top of all that can make this a stressful time of year for a lot of families.

“We’re fortunate in that our family has a warm house to live in, and food in our bellies.”

She thinks it was really sweet Abbie-Lee came up with the idea by herself, and is glad to see her kids have learned the importance of giving.

“To teach the kids how to give, without expecting to receive, was probably the most Ryan Wood important thing for me.”

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Friday 16 December 2016

Friday 16 December 2016

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Land a permit before lighting a fire Cooking outdoors and enjoying an evening round a camp fire are synonymous with the Kiwi summer. And for landowners, summer is also a time to light fires as part of cleaning up their properties.

However, it is illegal to light a fire in the open without a permit during the current restricted fire season, which began on October 2016, says Pumicelands Rural Fire Authority’s chief executive officer and principal rural fire officer Paul Wright.

“It’s free to obtain a permit and it’s even easier now as all you have to do is lodge an application through our website: pumicelands.co.nz “Then allow up to three working days to receive your permit, but it may be quicker if you have been issued permits in the past.”

Pumicelands is the organisation responsible for issuing fire permits and fighting fires across about 2.35 million hectares of land in the Central North Island. So rural fire within the Western Bay of Plenty is managed by Pumicelands Rural Fire Authority.

It provides services for Western Bay of Plenty District Council, rural areas of Tauranga City Council, Department of Conservation, and Department of Internal Affairs in respect of Mayor and Motiti islands.

Services include fire planning, permit issue, rural fire management and control, and a variety of legislative requirements established by the Forest & Rural Fires Act 1977.

Paul says from October to this week Pumicelands had issued 3000 fire permits – a trend he believes is encouraging and shows people are taking their responsibilities seriously.

The Pumicelands team doesn’t want to “pour cold water” on anyone’s holiday fun, but does want to ensure everyone has a safe enjoyable summer without causing

district councils. fires to get out of control.

“The only fires you don’t “A permit doesn’t Take care with fires this need a permit for are gas absolve you of summer – escaped fires have barbecues and some responsibility if cost individuals responsible braziers, which have a fire you light for lighting them more than correct guards,” gets out of $250,000 in firefighting costs. says Paul. Having a control, but permit also ensures gaining a Pumicelands has a permit does record of where fires gave you are being lit and so access to avoids the unnecessary valuable free dispatch of fire crews information, to fires which are under including control. “However, if weather you see a fire you think conditions. is a danger – phone 111 “In some cases immediately.” one of our rural fire To gain a permit, apply online officers may even visit at: pumicelands.co.nz you before issuing a permit, to assess the suitability of the fire site and provide helpful advice.”

Escaped fires have cost individuals responsible for lighting them more than $250,000 in firefighting costs.

“Make sure you carry the appropriate insurance including Forest and Rural Fires Act fire suppression cover.”

Anyone lighting a fire in the open air during a restricted fire season requires a permit to do so. Failure to obtain a permit is an offence against the Forest and Rural Fires Act 1977.

Pumicelands is not responsible for fire in the larger towns and cities.

These are Urban Fire Districts where firefighting is the responsibility of the NZ Fire Service and fire permit issue is the responsibility of local

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Talking alcohol with teens

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It’s that time of year, when teens like to party to extremes as summer holidays drift on and peers are off school, work and on holiday.

But how do parents successfully communicate to their teens the risks of alcohol and how to remain safe while parting?

According to new research, parent gender is the most prominent difference that impacts on the conversation with teens about drinking, and dads are lagging behind mothers.

An industry-funded public education campaign called ‘Cheers!’ conducted the research, which shows fathers find it harder than mothers to talk to their kids about drinking alcohol.

“It’s vital fathers step up and talk to their kids about drinking,” says Matt Claridge, who is executive director of The Tomorrow Project – the organisation that oversees Cheers!.

“Talking makes a big difference and all parents need to be onboard.

“Being consistent in your messages and modelling responsible drinking behaviour are effective ways to influence your teens to become responsible drinkers.”

The national survey of 994

parents and carers of children aged 15-21 was analysed based on data relating to the attitudes of one parent in the context of their attitudes and conversations with one child.

And the research identifies two large segments, that are best characterised as mothers who drink occasionally – surveyed at 40 per cent – and fathers who drink regularly at 39 per cent.

Matt says mums are confident and influential because they are well informed, model responsible drinking behaviour, set clear guidelines and expectations and believe their behaviour has a great deal of influence on their child’s attitude to alcohol.

On the other hand, dads are cautious, less informed and lack confidence around how to approach the conversation.

They don’t believe it important to delay drinking alcohol until age 18 – despite research showing teenagers should avoid being introduced to alcohol for as long as

possible as alcohol can disrupt brain development, says Matt.

“In reality, dads don’t want to change their drinking habits or negatively impact on their relationship with their teens.

“They approach the conversation as a big event, which can result in a negative impact on their relationship.

“Teenagers encounter an extraordinary amount of peer pressure, so knowing they can rely on their parents to listen, guide, and be a voice of authority and reason, the safer they’ll feel.

“I ask parents like myself to step up, have the conversation, and set clear guidelines.”

Information and advice around how to talk to teenagers about alcohol can be found online at: cheers.org.nz The Tomorrow Project was founded in 2012 and is committed to helping to create a safe and responsible drinking culture in New Zealand through evidencedbased, targeted interventions that address the reasons behind problem drinking.

Take the pain away this Christmas If you, or someone you know, suffers from painful arthritis, night cramps or swollen feet and hands, an Aircycle could be just the gift you are looking for.

It’s a great circulation booster, helps relieve joint and muscle pain, strengthen leg muscles to improve balance and mobility.

“My leg muscles are so much stronger and my circulation greatly improved,” says Joan Souter.

“I can climb stairs and get up from my chair more easily.”

The Aircycle enables people to keep moving while watching TV, sitting in the office or travelling in the car or plane.

“I’ve had my Aircycle seven weeks and not been up in the night once with my old cramp problem,” says Marg

Y O U R E A S I E S T S T E P T O B E T T E R H E A LT H

Davidson. The exercises not only work hands, feet, knees and hips but also lower back and core muscles, as well as make long flights more comfortable.

“After a 26-hour flight, I skipped off the plane with no ankle swelling,” says Aircycle user Tess Rowley.

The Aircycle is washable, affordable at less than $40, and folds to pop in a pocket – or a Christmas stocking.

An Aircycle may not just take the pain out of Christmas but could give lasting health benefits and years of Registered pain relief. nurse Sally Aircycles are available in pharmacies.

Aydon, For more information and orders enjoys the phone 0800 14 14 15, post $44.90 value of the (includes postage and packaging) to Aircycle.

Aircycle, PO Box 313, Waikanae 5036, or visit: www.aircycle.co.nz

Ph 0508 KIWIFRESH EXCELLENCE IN DERMATOLOGY

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The Weekend Sun

How much better can I get? Part 3 When speaking with people for the first time many complain of muscle pain, cramps and just general aches and pains.

The causes of muscle pain can be everything from joint problems to muscle diseases like Polymyalgia Rheumatica and include muscle problems caused by commonly prescribed statin medications. Our question for those with muscle issues is whether there are things we can do to make things more comfortable?

PMR requires multiple measures alongside medical treatment. I usually add my mitochondrial support supplement that includes CoQ10, B vitamins, alpha lipoic acid and antiinflammatory antioxidants.

We include a mineral complex, antioxidants, extra magnesium and vitamin D. In most cases this aids faster recovery.

A common cause of muscle pain is side effects of commonly-prescribed statin cholesterol-lowering medications. While statins effectively lower cholesterol they also inhibit production of Co enzyme Q10 – known as CoQ10 – which is essential for generating energy.

“Patience is not the ability to wait, but the ability to keep a good attitude while waiting” – JOYCE MEYER. This is an interesting time of year. Christmas is coming, anticipation builds but it isn’t here yet.

We are in a time of waiting…and often we’re not very good at that. We are used to modern conveniences – flick a switch and the lights come on, while fast downloads supply our computers with music, games, software, and almost instant information. So in this instant-everything modern

Friday 16 December 2016

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Muscles need a lot of energy.

Anything that reduces CoQ10 can cause muscle fibres to malfunction. Low CoQ10 can also affect the brain, causing memory and mood issues and general fatigue. A well-absorbed CoQ10 at the right doses can really help.

For statin issues I usually use a United Statespatented CoQ10 at 200mg for one-two months before reducing to 100mg daily.

In most cases this completely eliminates statininduced muscle problems. Additionally, CoQ10 is a potent fat soluble antioxidant important for protecting heart arteries.

Muscle cramp, especially at night, can be painful and interrupt good sleep.

Fortunately in most cases this can be easily remedied with a combination of well-absorbed magnesium and an antioxidant complex to help micro-circulation at night. If your muscles are complaining you should consider targeted nutritional therapy, because in most cases real improvements are possible. Give me a call or email: john@abundant.co.nz if you need more information. Join my full weekly newsletter at: www.abundant.co.nz John Arts is a qualified nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health.

Contact John on 0800 423 559.

To read more go to www.sunlive.co.nz

age we get frustrated if we have to wait for any length of time. Waiting feels like time wasted.

However, maybe a little waiting is a good thing.

Waiting reminds us we aren’t the centre of the universe, it reminds us life is a gift and it reminds us the present matters; that now is all we have. When you are in a time of waiting look at your expectations and ask yourself: ‘Am I able to use this time of waiting as a gift? And how would I do that?’.

If you’d like to know more about coaching or supervision, phone Mary Parker, The Fast Track Coach, on 07 577 1200 or 021 258 2145, or see: www.thefasttrackcoach.co.nz

Abundant Health

The sirens sound for Christmas The annual Emergency Services Food Drive cruised through the Western Bay of Plenty on December 6 collecting food for those in need during Christmas. Salvation Army community ministries manager Davina Plummer says the evening helped raise about $2000 worth of

food and $300 in cash donations from the Emergency Services Food Drive. “This will be most helpful in restocking the foodbank for the Christmas-New Year holiday season and to enable us to provide Christmas hampers for about 100-plus families representing about 300 individuals.”

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DESIGN UNVEILED FOR NEW WAIROA BRIDGE

your

DISTRICT UPDATE

OUR LITTLE KIWI MAKES HISTORY

ISSUE 145 • 16 DECEMBER 2016

The release of little Pistachio the kiwi in the Western Bay of Plenty was one of the greatest moments in the 14-year journey of the Otanewainuku Kiwi Trust last month.

Pistachio is the first kiwi to be bred at Otanewainuku since the Trust began operating in 2002. She hatched in March 2013 after the fertile egg was discovered in the Otanewainuku forest by Trust volunteers. The egg was taken to Operation Nest Egg’s hatching facility.

Wishing you and your family a happy and safe festive season.

The design for the 'iconic' cycle/walkway bridge across the Wairoa River has attracted incredibly positive feedback from across the District. The bridge, a key part of the Omokoroa to Tauranga Cycle Trail project, was designed by architect firm Warren and Mahoney.

Their innovative design features a curved, single span bridge with no piles in the water and a "spectacular" 40 metre high arch at mid point.

Council's Deputy CEO and Infrastructure Manager, Gary Allis, says the idea for an 'iconic' bridge across the Wairoa River came in the initial development of the trail. The project came to life when the Tauranga Energy Consumer Trust came on board with a $1m grant.

Minister for Transport Simon Bridges says the bridge will have huge benefits for the region's tourism and for the health and lifestyle of residents.

The bridge has an estimated cost of approx $6.5m with construction expected to begin July 2017 and last about 12 months.

Western Bay Mayor Garry Webber says the work and dedication of the Trust inspired Council to support the local kiwi conservation work. In the last three years Council has contributed $50,000 which has been vital to Pistachio’s discovery.

Christmas Hours

SUMMER SERVICE HOURS

Her release attracted hundreds of people happy to see her head out into her new home.

Here at Council we wish you all a very safe and merry Christmas, and a happy New Year.

While we will keep providing services to you over the holiday period, there are a few tweaks to opening hours at our libraries, service centres and recycling centres, and changes to rubbish collection days.

For open hours for all our library and service centres and recycling centres across the Western Bay visit www.westernbay.govt.nz

NEW PROPERTY VALUATIONS REFLECT WESTERN BAY GROWTH Community Board adds to cycleway

A BIG 'YES' FOR YOUTH Western Bay has secured $20,000 of a $90,000 nationwide Ministry of Youth Development funding pool to help young people learn emergency management skills.

Katikati and Maketu each received $10,000 to deliver the Youth in Emergency Services (YES) programme in 2017.

It’s the second consecutive year Council has successfully applied for the funding.

“To have received $20,000 of the $90,000 granted nationwide is testimony to the success of YES in Katikati and Maketu last year when all but one of the 30 young people graduated from the programmes,” says Community Relations Advisor Ben Wilson.

Up to 15 young people aged between 16 and 20 are brought into each programme through which they learn skills by working with the Fire Service, Red Cross, Coastguard, St John and Civil Defence Emergency Management teams.

The Western Bay’s thriving economy is reflected in the recent property valuation results, with all areas increasing in value.

Our Chief Financial Officer, Matt Potton, says the overall trend since the 2014 valuation reflects an increase in the value of residential and lifestyle properties, horticultural, dairy and pastoral. However the range in values varies across separate communities.

Kiwifruit orchards have the highest value increase, and for people in Te Puke, Pongakawa and Paengaroa residential and lifestyle property values have increased significantly thanks, in part, to the Tauranga Eastern Link providing easy access.

The new valuations will come into effect on 1 July 2017. Remember, an increase in value doesn’t necessarily mean an increase in rates. District ratepayers should receive information on their latest property revaluation this week.

The Omokoroa Community Board has given the Omokoroa to Tauranga Cycle Trail another funding boost, offering a $100,000 grant this month. This adds to $60,000 already given by the board earlier in 2016.

Chair Murray Grainger says the cycle trail will be a great asset for the local community with its links within Omokoroa and links to Plummers Point, Te Puna and Tauranga.

“Our board is more than happy to help fund such a wonderful asset. The route will have instant appeal for commuters between Omokoroa and Tauranga and we expect it will be a well used route for our residents, including their early morning constitutional walk or jog.

“Personally I cannot wait to use the cycleway, and it has become all the more spectacular with the recent unveiling of the design for the new Wairoa Bridge.’’

Please remember if you have a problem, query, complaint or compliment about anything to do with Council and its service, please contact our customer services team.

CALL 07 571 8008 Email: customerservices@westernbay.govt.nz

Te Kaunihera a rohe mai i nga Kuri-a-Wharei ki Otamarakau ki te Uru

Proud to support our community partners If you’d like to contact your local councillors please visit our website at:

www.westernbay.govt.nz/council

If you’d like to receive updates via email please send your details to:

districtupdates@westernbay.govt.nz

Find us on Facebook

www.fyd.org.nz/kiwican

People • Plan • Progress

www.waipuna-hospice.co.nz

J001425DEVCICH.CO.NZ

www.westernbay.govt.nz

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Friday 16 December 2016

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Making a pledge towards healthy kids Fonterra has pledged support to the New Zealand Ministry of Health’s Healthy Kids’ Industry Pledge, which aims to help reduce rates of obesity in children in New Zealand.

Fonterra advertising will comply with the Advertising Standards Authority Children and Young People’s Advertising Code in New Zealand.

And when Fonterra Brands is sponsoring events for children, it will support healthy

nutrition. Plus the pledge to continue to move their portfolio of everyday products for children and young people towards using minimum quantities of added sugars, refined carbohydrates, added fats, salt and other additives without compromising on quality, taste, texture or safety.

In signing up to the Healthy Kids’ Industry pledge, Fonterra has detailed how it will support the initiative in a tangible way with seven commitments.

They’re committed to making free nutritious milk available nationwide to all schools with primary-aged children as part of Fonterra Milk for Schools programme.

To providing free milk for a nutritious breakfast for all Kiwi school kids as part of the KickStart breakfast programme.

They will rollout the Health Star Rating on all Fonterra’s everyday products in NZ, and refresh packaging.

By the end of 2018, Fonterra Brands NZ will include Health Star Rating information on its websites for all Brands NZ everyday products.

Attention! Artisan food producers wanted Katch Katikati is asking artisan food producers around the Katikati district to update their details with the promotion organisation, so it can refresh its food trail website.

The website katikaticuisine.com is an artisan food trail for those who want to have a drive around Katikati’s country roads and discover hidden goodness.

Its designed to take trail-goers from plant to plate, to gather your seed and edible plants, discover fresh seasonal produce and gather up armfuls of cheese, salami,

breads, and goodies to take away during their visit.

Katch Katikati revamping the site – and wants correct details of all artisan food producers listed. And new entries are welcome to join.

See www.katikaticuisine.com or phone Katch Katikati on 07 549 5250.

SUNDAY

LONG LUNCH Enjoy a scrumptious BBQ lunch every Sunday* this summer at the Hotel Armitage and Conference Centre. The all-you-can-eat buffet is available from 12 noon until 2pm but stay and let the kids enjoy the pool until 4pm. *Some dates may be excluded. Bookings are recommended to avoid disappointment.

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Follow our transformation on Facebook and visit us to view our ongoing changes.

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0800 276 482 hotelarmitage.co.nz

Friday 16 December 2016

Cans make for a Merry Christmas Families throughout the nation will have a merrier Christmas this year thanks to more than 67,000 cans being collected in the inaugural Wattie’s Cans for Good campaign last month.

More than 200 schools – including those in the Bay of plenty – took part in collecting cans to help The Salvation Army stock up

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its foodbanks to assist New Zealanders in need during the busy Christmas period.

And Heinz Wattie’s donated additional cans, taking the number to more than 92,000 cans.

The Salvation Army’s Secretary for Social Services Major Pamela Waugh says household budgets are stretched by rising living costs, especially for rent and power.

“With Christmas around the corner, food parcels are a great way to help reduce the stress on families who are doing it tough.”

Raw chicken risk highlighted A Consumer NZ test of 40 fresh chicken products found campylobacter in nearly twothirds of samples.

Consumer NZ chief executive Sue Chetwin says campylobacter was detected in 26 of the 40 products, all purchased from supermarkets.

Campylobacter is the leading cause of notified gastrointestinal infections in New Zealand with rates peaking during summer. Last year, 6218 cases were notified.

Sue says fresh chicken is considered responsible for half of all campylobacter cases.

“The bug’s presence in the products we tested doesn’t mean you’ll get sick from the chicken but it increases the chances,” says Sue. Campylobacter can survive if raw chicken isn’t cooked properly.

It can also be spread to other foods and contaminate surfaces where food is prepared.

Campylobacter rates dropped significantly after control measures were put in place in the poultry industry a decade ago.

But Sue says there’s general

agreement rates are still too high and need to come down.

The Ministry for Primary Industries has set a target of reducing campylobacter cases by 10 per cent by 2020.

Current rules require poultry manufacturers to carry out testing of chicken carcasses at their processing facilities. However, not all manufacturers have been meeting MPI targets for reducing contamination.

Data show between January 2013 and October 2014 there were 130 occasions where processing plants exceeded contamination limits.

If cooking chicken at home: • Wash and dry your hands every time chicken is handled.

• Store it on the bottom shelf of the fridge to prevent contact with other food.

• Use a separate chopping board and utensils for cutting raw chicken.

• Cook chicken meat thoroughly.

• Don’t wash raw chicken because this helps spread campylobacter to other items such as hands, clothes, other food and contact surfaces.

• Buying frozen chicken reduces the risk of infection because freezing cuts the number of campylobacter.

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‘We’ve got the freshest fish in town’ If you’re looking for fresh fish with huge variety, Sanford Seafood on Cross Rd is the place to go.

Sanford Tauranga manager Jaqueline Williams says the store is currently offering a wide range of fish, and can cater to customers’ needs.

“We have a range from snapper to tarakihi, John dory, lemonfish, gurnard, hapuku, kingfish, salmon, and many more varieties,” says Jaqueline.

“And that’s just our fillet range.”

A few minor adjustments have been made, so look forward to a change in their shop.

“Keeping our fish looking so good is our knife hands Karl Harvey who hand-picks our fish in our fish bins once it’s off the boat and thoroughly ices our fish right through.

“We also provide a service to cut fish for our customers and meet their needs.”

With a focus on customers, Jaqueline says the company’s values come into play in everyday situations – integrity, care and passion.

“The shop is the face of the company

t, Chloe Morgan, Naila The Sanford Seafood team: Puk Kangkhokkrua ager Jacqueline Williams. and man Tuimaualuga, Vickie Laird, Brooke Anderson here, and the quality of the fresh fish is the first thing our customers see.

“We try to get species our customers want, we care for the quality and presentation of our fish and we try to meet the needs of the diverse range of cultures that come into our shop.”

People can come in and see what products we have and how fresh everything is.

“That’s what it’s all about really, selling good product and keeping our customers happy.”

Happy kilojoule light Christmas Can the words ‘healthy’ and ‘Christmas dinner’ be uttered in the same sentence?

The concept of a healthy Christmas may seem absurd, after all, traditional Christmas kai like roast pork, crackling, plum pudding with brandy butter and Christmas mince pies are not figure-friendly, So let’s redefine the concept of ‘Christmas treats’.

The word ‘treat’ as defined by the dictionary is “an event or item giving special delight or pleasure”. While chocolate and cake may fit this description, so do many healthy foods like salmon, prawns, glazed ham on the bone, turkey, fillet of beef, nuts, berries, cherries, mangoes, melons, figs, fresh asparagus and avocados. They too can be “a source of special delight and pleasure” to most people and are every bit at home on a Christmas menu as the traditional fare. Focus on these foods and you will have delighted

and satisfied guests. For the main meal choose roast turkey, lamb, beef fillet or pork. But just one because too much choice can confuse the enjoyment.

Seafood and fish – grilled, barbecued or baked. Keep these simple to en-joy the delicate flavours. Barbecue meats like kebabs, steak, lamb cutlets or lean gourmet sausages.

Side dishes could be a medley of roast vegetables drizzled with honey or maple syrup and balsamic vinegar. For a roast vegetable salad – potato, pumpkin, kumara, yams, parsnip, beetroot, baby onions can all be roasted in advance, then cut up and dressed to make a salad.

Desserts – enjoy them but they shouldn’t be the main player. Fresh fruit and marshmallow kebabs. Pavlova or meringue crushed and mixed with lemon yoghurt, blueberries and walnuts. Mango jelly garnished with fresh raspberries, strawberries and blueberries or ice cream.

World wants fresh and natural Discerning consumers around the world say think fresh, natural and home-cooked food matters most.

International survey data reveals fresh-tasting, natural, home-cooked tastes aren’t just driving consumer demand in modern western markets.

In places as diverse as

Nigeria, Brazil, Poland and China authentic and natural-tasting food is the consumer’s favourite.

At the same time manufacturers must rise to the complex challenge of meeting these taste expectations without sacrificing convenience and understandable labelling. DSM, a global science based

company active in health and nutrition, recently surveyed urban consumers’ taste preferences, attitudes and behaviours.

And its data revealed more than half believe a ‘fresh or natural’ flavour is what makes food taste delicious, followed by ‘tastes as if it was made at home’.

Friday 16 December 2016

Friday 16 December 2016

The Weekend Sun

38

$1795

$750

$4765

$1995 $1150

$795 LESS

20%

$4195

$2995

The Weekend Sun

Friday 16 December 2016

39

New financial advisor joins Tauranga office Forsyth Barr, a proudly New Zealand-owned firm, is pleased to welcome Philip Kilpatrick to its expanded team of authorised financial advisers in the Tauranga office.

Philip has more than 22 years of experience in the financial services industry covering financial and investment advice, risk management and lending.

He’s an authorised financial adviser

since 2011, holds a Graduate Diploma in Business Studies and Personal Financial Planning after graduating from Massey University in 2003 – and is a Certified Financial Planner and a local committee member of the Institute of Financial Advisers.

Outside work, Philip has a small avocado orchard to tend to and enjoys a range of sporting activities including golf, running and tennis.

Whether you are seeking to transact, receive investment advice or investment management services, you can contact

Philip by calling 07 577 5726 or email: philip.kilpatrick@forsythbarr.co.nz Alternatively, you can visit him at the Forsyth Barr office at 40 Selwyn St, Tauranga.

This column is general in nature and is not personalised investment advice.

Disclosure statements for Forsyth Barr authorised financial advisers are available on request and free of charge.

The team at Forsyth Barr have a new team member.

Never too old to learn new things

The three-year degree offers majors in Visual Art, Graphic Design, and Fashion Design. And 65-year-old Norah Maclachlan is among them, and credits the staff at the institute for helping her achieve her goal.

“Being an older student, I have a problem understanding written word, which was a challenge in itself. “But I had a very understanding tutor, who pushed me when I thought I couldn’t do it.” She’s always sewn and enjoyed craftwork, and after her job was disestablished, she decided to try something new.

“Being an older person made it quite hard to get another job,” says Norah. “My son was already

studying to be a fashion designer, and he suggested I start doing the certificate in fashion at the institute.

“I already knew how to sew, so the biggest challenge was making my own patterns. But that whetted my appetite, and encouraged me to carry on to the bachelor degree.”

Norah says the degree was a bit of a learning curve, but it also allowed her to pick up more skills.

“We did more than just fashion. We worked on the business side, and learned about graphic design and visual arts as well.”

And her ambition now?

“I’m a bigger woman,

Norah Maclachlan graduated this week.

and short, so what I want to do is create stylish patterns for women with that shape.

“I’ve tried looking for clothes myself, and they often look like sacks,” laughs Norah.

“What I’m exploring at the moment is my craftwork, so I’m working on showcasing that for a start.”

With a degree under her belt, she no doubt has many more options now. Her advice to people thinking about studying is to have a go, no matter what prior experience you have.

“If you have a passion for art, or a passion for fashion, go for it. It doesn’t matter what age you are, or the challenges you face. It’s worth it in the end.”

Forsyth Barr welcomes Authorised Financial Adviser Philip Kilpatrick With over 22 years experience in the industry, Philip has joined Forsyth Barr’s Tauranga office Contact Philip today on 027 436 6914, (07) 577 5726 or 0800 367 227 to discuss your investment arrangements in confidence.

Visit us at 40 Selwyn Street, Tauranga 3110.

Disclosure Statements are available on request and free of charge.

Ryan Wood

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The first batch of graduates from Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology’s Bachelor of Creative Industries walked across the stage this week at Holy Trinity Church.

Friday 16 December 2016

The Weekend Sun

40

Slow down and be courteous! How long will voters’ tolerance last?

This is a message to all dog owners who regularly walk the waterways between Palm Beach Boulevard and Hartford Ave at Papamoa to be particularly mindful of a lunatic on a bike. I had an upsetting experience on December 6. At about 4.15pm, when out walking my dog, a man on a bike came up behind me at a terrifying speed. I couldn’t hear him coming and he felt it was his right to kick my dog out of his way, and carried on merrily at break-neck speed. So whoever you are please be more courteous in that it is a shared walkway, use your bell so we can hear you coming and would it be too difficult to actually slow down a little during the couple of seconds it takes to pass people?

C Barrett, Papamoa Beach.

The positive feedback on criticism about National Government’s performance was heartening, with the main observation being the points made should be elaborated on. The Resource Management Act possibly needed streamlining but garnering support from the Maori Party in return for race-based deals was untenable, especially when NZ First offered to support legislation provided iwi provisions were dropped.

The freshwater saga continues; everyone agrees ‘no one owns the water’ yet National continues to have secret talks with iwi cobbling up deals to alienate control while also encouraging regional councils to do likewise via race-based elected

and unelected people having input on councils and committees.

The Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement without the United States of America’s support is finished. Yet National continues to promote and support something that is heavily criticised. As for the flag referendum, Kiwis spent $27 million just to satisfy one man’s whim and flight of fancy.

The crazy, unbridled immigration policy – with a net 70,300

– which defies belief has cost New Zealand dearly, fuelling housing costs, affordability and availability while giving developers a carte blanche to print money.

How much longer will Kiwis, who should support only parties that are concerned about all New Zealand citizens, tolerate this unmitigated nonsense? The large attendance at Katikati recently to hear Winston Peters reflects the mood of voters.

R Paterson, Mount Maunganui.

Their reign is almost over Practise to deceive We are told Prime Minister John Key resigned because he wants to spend more time with his wife and children.

MPs and PMs get heaps and heaps of free time; just check the sitting times of Parliament on television, a bit like our local city and regional councillors who all nearly claim to be frightfully busy 24/7.

John Key lost the Northland byelection.

John Key lost the flag

referendum. John Key lost the Trans-pacific Partnership Agreement deal.

John Key lost the Mt Roskill byelection with a landslide victory to Labour.

National and Key’s reign is over. He knows it and that is the real reason he’s left. I’m quite sure Winston Peters subscribes to this view also.

H Rhodes, Tauranga City.

So our new Prime Minister is treading the same path that John Key trod towards exclusive, ethnic privilege and racial disharmony with his support for holding a Memorial Day to commemorate the so-called ‘Land Wars’. This commemoration is a thinly disguised effort by the Tainui iwi to project their profitable version of the conflict perhaps in the hope of inducing Treaty Negotiations Minister Chris Finlayson to give away even more of the taxpayers’ money.

Mr English has also found it pragmatically and politically propitious to reverse his moral stand on same sex marriage. As Walter Scott said in 1808: “O what a tangled web we weave, when first we practise to deceive”.

Bryan Johnson, Omokoroa.

Respecting a learned sporting opinion Lance Revill has been accused of sedition or heresy or both for simply speaking his mind.

“Bull****” was the word the president of the New Zealand Professional Boxing Association applied to Joseph Parker’s win over Andy Ruiz Jr. Revill said “something stinks” about the result and that Ruiz got “ripped off.”

Fair enough I think – it’s the considered opinion of a respected and experienced boxing administrator. I don’t have to agree with it but I would fiercely respect his right to say it. And his opinion is as worthy as any other.

But what I found offensive and symptomatic of NZ sports ugly underbelly was the response from Parker’s minder Dean Lonergan.

“Lance Revill is nothing but an

irrelevance and he should crawl back into his hole of obscurity and lock the door with the key of irrelevance because, bottom line, the guy’s an idiot,” Lonergan is quoted as saying.

Revill was expressing a learned sporting opinion. Lonergan turned it into an ugly personal attack.

Crude and unnecessary.

It had a touch of woeful rugby about it. Question or criticise the game and you will burn in hell.

You certainly won’t be allowed at any All Black press conferences.

Ask Chris Rattue, the most astute and incisive sports writer in the country about that.

And Revill wasn’t alone.

Aficionado Bob Jones thought Parker had been ‘outclassed’ by Ruiz. Over time he has also tried

to bring balance, to give the Duco phenomenon some context and perspective. That’s healthy.

Muhammad Ali’s biographer Thomas Hauser called Joseph Parker’s victory “an embarrassment” to boxing. Now he’s got cred. And he says David Tua would have knocked out Parker in a couple of rounds. Yet you could bet a sweet right cross that Lonergan would have hated that too.

Duco doyen Dean’s been carefully and successfully manipulating the media in the lead up to this scrap. Now we have some free thinking. That’s the job of the fourth estate isn’t it?

To record the facts, opinion, keep people honest and people informed so we can make up our own minds.

S Smith, Bureta.

The Weekend Sun

Using roundabouts the right way Re: ‘Sending the right signals’ (The Weekend Sun, December 9).

The intention of indicating – as stated in the ‘Road Code’ – is to tell other road users that you are changing your direction or position on the road, not just to satisfy a particular requirement in the Road Code.

Perhaps letter writer S Carter, along with many other drivers, should also note that the ‘Road Code’ under ‘signal use at roundabouts’ also requires signalling left “as you pass the exit before you pass the one you wish to take”, and this

applies whether one is going straight through or going further around the roundabout.

It is this last requirement signalling left every time you exit from a roundabout – whether it’s the first exit or any subsequent one – that is most important in creating smooth traffic flow through roundabouts. If a driver does not signal left, the person waiting at the next entry point just has to wait, on the basis that either the person is going further around the roundabout, or has just forgotten to signal left. Unnecessary waiting is what causes delays to traffi c fl ow.

N Hall, Papamoa.

What is truth Prime Minister?

Prime Minister Bill English refuses to meet with the Pike River families over re-entering the mine.

His reason: “It is not a political decision”.

He is technically correct, however he now has the ability to exercise a ‘compassionate ethic’ towards NZ citizens who have been seriously disadvantaged by predetermined outcomes of an amalgam of environmental greenies, Solid Energy, Police, the courts and a Royal Commission.

The families have ‘played the game’ by acquiescing to all constrictive, government-constructed rules and protocols that stood in the way of re-entry in the weeks, months and years preceding their personal tragedies.

Friday 16 December 2016

41

Now they face the decision made by the hierarchy to seal forever the mine and entomb, not just the bodies of their loved ones but any evidence that may prove these men could have been retrieved immediately after the initial explosion.

As a politician, the PM cannot make the ‘re-entry’ decision but he has the power and fiscal budget to seek ‘independent’ global advice from mine experts that include answers to all the questions that the families have been seeking answers for.

That, in my view, would establish Bill English as a PM who ‘seeks the truth’ and does not leave his constituent citizens behind.

MJ Anderson, Pyes Pa.

The way to solve Kaikoura’s woes With particular regard to Kaikoura’s problem of its uplifted seabed, the solution is so simple, it’s somewhat ludicrous that the politicians who have looked at it, haven’t worked it out yet.

There is a blocked road between there and Cheviot that needs clearing of hundreds of tons of rock. There are machines sitting around idle in Kaikoura and people who could do with a job. With a little bit of application, all that rock could be used to build an absolutely brilliant harbour, thus killing two problems with many stones to get the whale watching back on track. Anybody who decries this should think again.

The South Island has truly magnificent roads purely because it has such ample supplies of shingle. England has some of its best little harbours in the world, again because of its ample rock supplies. Here is a marvellous opportunity for Kaikoura to do the same. Just keep the bureaucrats away.

R McGuinness, Tauranga City.

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W Laurence, Tauranga City.

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Friday 16 December 2016

The Weekend Sun

42

ENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENTGUIDE Stories, snippets, strangeness, and general entertainment. Pg43

OUT & ABOUT

Community events and occasions across the Bay. Pg44

SPECIAL EVENTS

Women’s Triathlon Women’s Triathlon Women’s Triathlon Women’s Triathlon 400m Swim, 10km Cycle, 4km Run/Walk 400m Swim, 10km Cycle, 4km Run/Walk Sunday 26 February 2017 | Pilot Bay, Mount Maunganui Swim, 10km Sunday 400m 26 February 2017 |Cycle, Pilot4km Bay, Run/Walk Mount Maunganui Sunday 400m 26 February 2017 |Cycle, Pilot4km Bay, Run/Walk Mount Maunganui Swim, 10km Sunday 26 February 2017 | Pilot Bay, Mount Maunganui

e Lots of awesom d an izesesome praw ot of spts Lo ent photos! ev EE FR spot prizes and e omotos! aw t ph enes Lo EEofev FRts d an spot prizes eos! ph t om en awes ot EEofev FRts Lo d Sunday 26 February 2017 an spot prizes ! os ot ph t en Start time: EE ev Sunday 268.30am February 2017 FR

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The Weekend Sun’s ever popular guide to ‘What’s On’ in the Bay. Pg46

News, reviews and opinionated raving on the music scene. Pg45

MUSIC & ARTS

JULIE’S

WHAT’SON

Rocking out 2016 right Double your strength, improve your health and lengthen your life by swaggering on down to Mount Maunganui for what’s going to be a raucous end to the year.

for the Vodafone Homegrown music festival, which lead to a national tour.

Three years later they released their first album in a decade ‘Blood Will Out’ followed by their sixth studio album ‘Narcocorrido’ released in 2015.

HLAH aren’t just a force The one and only Head to be reckoned with in the Like A Hole with special studio but one of the most local guests All Hail the brutal live acts you’ll ever lay Funkillers, Edward Gaines your peepers on – and this & the Human Remains and New Year’s Eve is going to be Hamilton’s Rebel Sound one hell of a night.

Radio are playing at Totara Head Like A Hole with Street performance venue on All Hail the Funkillers, December 31.

Edward Gaines & the Making the night even The scoundrels of Wellington Head Like A Hole. Human Remains and Rebel more special, not only will Sound Radio play Mount it be HLAH’s first New Year’s Eve gig in five years but Maunganui’s Totara Street performance venue on the punk rock scoundrels are also taking a break from Saturday, December 31. the recordings of their as-yet unnamed seventh album just to play this show.

HLAH tumbled nude, loose and loud out The Weekend Sun has one double of Wellington in 1990 and during the next pass to give away to one lucky decade travelled at pace, releasing six albums and built reader who can tell us which night Head Like A Hole a fanatic fan-base across New Zealand, Australia and is playing this December?

Europe, before the fat lady sung and the band called in Enter online at www.sunlive.co.nz under the quits in 2000. competition section. Entries must be received by But they were back on the horse by 2009, reforming David Tauranga Wednesday, December 21.

Triathlon helping women set new goals As Rotorua resident Kiri Kepa registered to compete in the Generation Homes Women’s Triathlon for the first time in February this year, she had no idea it would turn into an obsession.

like-minded people and achieving the goal you set out to do”.

Kiri encourages all women to get out there, give it their best and just have fun.

Next February 26, the fourth annual Generation Homes Women’s Triathlon at Pilot Bay will see more than 500 women enter as individuals, in two or three person teams or Fast-forward 10 months and the 49-year-old the special mother-daughter category. has competed in five triathlons including the The entry-level triathlon is designed for Marra Sprint Triathlon, IronMaori and the women of all ages and fitness levels and TriMaori Series plus another four competitive consists of a 400m swim, a 10km cycle and a sporting events.

4km run/walk. Girls aged 11 years and above This Saturday, December 17, Kiri is are encouraged to enter. competing in the Rotorua Quarter Ironman Event director Miranda Clark runs six free event. “My first experience of a triathlon was group training sessions prior to the triathlon, supporting friends competing in Ironman but starting on Tuesday, January 17. it wasn’t until I heard the sound of the road Kiri Kepa.

“The training sessions help women learn new bikes flying past that I knew I wanted to give skills and build the confidence they need to it a go – and I wanted one of those bikes,” says compete in the event, especially the swimming part.

Kiri, with a laugh.

“The passion and determination shown by every She is now three years in remission after being competitor as they cross the finish line with big smiles diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013. Her diagnosis on their faces – you can’t put a price on it.” came as a total shock but it instilled a sense of Major prizes include a flatscreen TV and Avanti bike determination to “live life to the fullest”. plus there’s thousands of dollars in spot prizes to be When asked what she loves most about competing won. Register online at: www.trichicks.co.nz in triathlons the answer is simple – “it’s being around

The Weekend Sun

Friday 16 December 2016

43

A Night Before Christmas tomorrow night With one day to go until Bethlehem’s biggest festive party – A Night Before Christmas’– Tauranga siblings Leilani and

Tauranga siblings Leilani and Elijah Taula are performing at tomorrow night’s ‘A Night Before Christmas’.

Photo: Bruce Barnard.

Elijah Taula are about to make a something for everyone. “I certainly hope people can come to this special event and take the chance just to stop rare performance. and reflect about what the season is all about – and have a Together they will perform in front of thousands of event-goers at the free iconic family festive event, which starts 5pm tomorrow night at new venue Bethlehem College’s front fields.

The siblings have never been on this particular stage together but they’re revelling in it.

“We don’t sing a lot together,” says Leilani, 20, who will perform a solo of ‘All I want for Christmas is you’ while Elijah, 18, will sing a few originals with his band AhJeez before taking to the stage with his sister to perform two Jazz-style numbers.

Leilani says to think of the Michael Buble and Frank Sinatra Christmas versions of ‘It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas’ and ‘It’s a wonderful time of the year’.

“We don’t get to perform a heck of lot of jazz these days so it’s nice to be able to showcase that side of ourselves.”

Meanwhile, the team behind ‘A Night Before Christmas’ is getting organised to host the free community event.

Organiser Luisa Schroder says gather your friends and family, neighbours and work colleagues, and head to Bethlehem College tomorrow night “and build great memories as you herald in the Christmas week”.

Luisa says artists, performers and local troupes will offer entertainment galore “of every genre” ensuring there will be

whole heap of fun as well.”

Luisa says you can take along your own picnic, but no alcohol is permitted, or purchase from a great range of food vendors on-site, including Johneys Dumplings, Mizzoni Pizzas, TAG Burgers, Real Italian Doughnuts, La Creperie, Mr Whippy and Lil Orbits Doughnuts.

Plus other popular choices such as hot fries, hot dogs, cornish pasties, churros, nachos and fresh pita salads.

“There will be plenty of coffee vendors and sweet treats as well as a good old fashioned sausage sizzle by the Te Puna-Bethlehem Lions Club. Remember to bring cash as Eftpos will be limited.”

There is plenty of parking on the Bethlehem College BETHLEHEM BAPTIST CHURCH PRESENTS Campus with gates opening 5pm. A collection will be taken for Good Neighbour and a stunning fireworks display will end the night in spectacular fashion.

‘A Night Before Christmas’ is a free family event on Saturday, December 17, at new venue Bethlehem College’s front fields.

Gates open 5pm. Alcohol th is not permitted.

The main show starts (wet weather Sunday 18 December) 6.30pm and ends with 5PM GATES OPEN // FREE ENTRY the fireworks display two hours later.

Venue: Bethlehem College Visit: www. anightbeforechristmas.co.nz

Saturday 17 December

Merle Foster

WWW.ANIGHTBEFORECHRISTMAS.CO.NZ

Friday 16 December 2016

The Weekend Sun

44

Walk the Road to Bethlehem The biblical story of the birth of Joseph and Mary’s son An interactive tour re-telling the Christmas Jesus will come to life each night from December 18-21 when story this month gives Bay of Plenty residents the Seventh-day Adventist Church, with supporting local a unique chance to wind back 2000 years by churches, stages the 50-minute nativity walk.

Road to Bethlehem committee chairperson Andrew West travelling the Road to Bethlehem.

says the tour is a re-enactment of the days leading up to the birth of Christ.

Tour groups can wander the seven different stands and experience an authentic, busy marketplace from the era, loyal shepherds, the wise men, angels and Roman soldiers, before encountering baby Jesus in the final scene.

“The aim is to put people into the shoes of Joseph and Mary on the journey from Nazareth to the village of Bethlehem.”

Andrew says the event enables people to realise the real background to Christmas in what is a busy for month for most.

“When people come in, they literally step back in time to Bible times 2000 years ago.

“Most come out in awe of what they’ve just witnessed – many are very thoughtful in the way they leave and comments they write on the visitors’ scroll.

“Many comments are quite deep and personal – for many it makes the Christmas story real.”

More than 200 volunteers “excited to step out of their comfort zones” help re-tell the Christmas story to about 6000 eventgoers.

And many come back year after year. “The most common thing we hear is families make it a tradition every Christmas.

“The coolest thing I’ve seen was a grandfather, between the scenes, filling in the gaps of the storyline to his grandchildren.”

The free event is proudly hosted by Tauranga Adventist

MEDIUM

Ashleigh-Rose Varty and Laurence Liddell with ‘baby Jesus’.

School, 19 Moffat Rd, on December 18-21. Walking tours begin every eight minutes from 6.30pm-9.30pm. To avoid queuing, people can book tours online at: www.roadtobethlehem.org.nz

SUDOKU 2 1 5

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MEDIUM 2 5 3 2 9 5 6 4 3 8 1 7 Phone Shirley Richardson on 07 575 2725, 9 7 1 4 8 6 2 5 3 2 1 Stella Leach on 07 575 0685 or Christine Potter 6 5 4 5 6 3 9 2 1 7 8 Fill the grid so that on 07 575 2144.

8 2 3 7 1 5 6 4 9 1 6 8 5 Many worthy causes in the community benefit every row and every 7 6 9 4 538267491 from the proceeds of the Mount Lions and 3x3 square contains 1 4 2 8 5 9 7 3 6 4 7 Lioness book fairs.

8 digits 1 to 9 2 the 7 6 9 1 3 4 5 8 2 9 8 6 No.1862 9 6 1Solution 4 7 3 8 4 9 7 8 3 2 5 3 8 7 5 2 1 9 6 4 2 5 3 2 9 5 6 4 3 8 1 7 9 7 1 4 8 6 2 5 3 6 5 4 5 6 3 9 2 1 7 8 8 2 3 7 1 5 6 4 9 7 6 9 4 53 8 267491 1 4 2 8 5 9 7 3 6 2 8 7 6 9 1 3 4 5 8 2

SUDOKU

SUDOKU

The Weekend Sun

Friday 16 December 2016

45

MUSICPLUS

By Winston Watusi

Get the blues – on CD while you can Time for the last album review of the year, one final CD in a year of fewer Tauranga CDs than any this millennium.

I must say, I’ve come to regard pretty much any CD release as an historical moment these days, a defiant cannon shot over a lost battlefield where the corpses are musicians and the general public blithely carry on as normal not realising they are the ones responsible for the dead bodies.

For the simple fact is with the impending death of the CD, the imminent disappearance of most music made in New Zealand is here.

That’s it guys. Here’s how it works – you all prefer to stream free music on Spotify so bands can no longer make money from recorded music. And recording music costs money. Musicians can’t afford to simply spend money on something they then give away; it’s as simple as that. This particularly impacts unsigned and independent bands which, in New Zealand, is 95 per cent of the scene, including pretty much every band and musician you know in Tauranga.

Hats off to Mike

So hats off to Mike Garner, and the other outfits I’ve been reviewing during the last few weeks –which you can find online at SunLive – for swimming against the tide and leaving a lasting record of the music that we hear live in our community, the music that is the soundtrack to our lives.

If you cast your eyes back only a few decades, most Tauranga music was unrecorded and is lost forever. That’s what we’re returning to.

It’s actually been a pretty big year for Mike. He’s gigged throughout New Zealand and been overseas to play in both Japan – his third tour there – and Norfolk Island. In amongst that he released a new album, an evocatively-named and beautifully-recorded collection of mainly old blues songs.

It’s called ‘40 Below Blues’ which sounds like a Muddy Waters title but is actually a reference to New Zealand’s latitudinal place in the world, sitting as we do on the 40 degrees south line. It’s actually a bit of departure for Mike.

But not a musical departure particularly.

For those who know Mike’s excellent slide guitar playing and authentically lived-in blues voice, this is exactly what you hear

when he plays live. But it’s the first time for some years he’s recorded in such a strippeddown setting, with just the intricate blues harp of Neil Billington on three songs and old-timey fiddle from the Bay’s own Robbie Laven on another two.

Exploring old blues

The choice of material is also different. Mike has long enjoyed a reputation as a fine blues songwriter but this set is primarily dedicated to some delightfully obscure old blues songs. I say “delightfully obscure” because as a blues aficionado I do get tired of repeated recordings of the same Robert Johnson songs and other popular contenders.

Every genre has its standards but there are only so many times you can hear them

without the onset of creeping boredom.

No such problem here. Mike has unearthed a bunch of great, largely unknown songs from two great Charlie Patton numbers – known as the grandfather of Delta blues, he was a man idolised by Robert Johnson and famous for playing guitar behind his head decades before it became “a thing” – to the traditional “John Hardy”, a Sleepy John Estes tune, and two from the wonderful Bo Carter, one in Carter’s typical “dirty blues” style laden with food-inspired double

entendres. It’s called ‘Your Biscuits are Good Enough For Me’, one a rare serious moment complete with lovely fiddle.

There’s also a song from American singer-mandolin player Tim O’Brien whom some might remember from his visit to the Tauranga Arts Festival.

It was all recorded at The Colourfi eld in Welcome Bay and has a lovely sound. In case you can’t can’t tell, tell, II like like it. it. The The physical physical CD CD is only available at Mike’s Mike’s live live gigs gigs (or possibly his Facebook page if you ask). But you can download iTunes and and the the the album through iTunes usual suspects. watusi@thesun.co.nz

Greer’s Gastro Bar Sunday 18 – Blaze 5.308.30pm. Classic hits and popular covers duo. Guitar and vocals.

Mount RSA Friday 16 – Mark Taipari 7.30pm.

Saturday 17 – Coopers Run 7.30pm.

Sunday 18 – Back Porch 4.30pm.

The Hop House Friday 16 – Jinan Dodd 8pm.

Saturday 17 – Macca 4.307.30pm.

Sunday 18 – DJ set Spinning with Space 4.30-7.30pm.

The Matua Sunday 18 – The Blarney Boys 3-6pm.

Wednesday 21 – “A taste of your music”. Come along with chord sheets and sing with the band. 7.30pm start.

Friday 16 December 2016

The Weekend Sun

46

JULIE’S

Friday 16 December

Come Dancing Te Puke

Te Puke Scottish Society Christmas dance. Come along & enjoy the company of like minded people.

Christmas carols, lots of fun & enjoyment, live band, Christmas supper & a visit from Santa. Door charge $7. Valerie 573 7093

12 days of Christmas

Until Dec 24 at Historic Village, 17th Ave West, Tauranga. Starting with a street party opening night & ending with Historic Village Markets on Dec 24. Christmas Carol Variety Show Dec 23 7-9pm. The Historic Village will be decorated with Christmas lights, decorations, a grotto, carols, workshops, activity packs, puzzle trails & more. Follow The Historic Village People on Facebook or visit the Village for a schedule.

Dragon Boating

Bay Dragons women’s team looking for new recruits. Ages 16+.

Saturday’s 7.30am. Mon, Tues & Thurs 5.30pm. Sulphur Pt. Brooke 022 0782 308

Multicultural Tauranga

Annual Book Fair

Mount Lions & Lioness clubs need donations of good quality books, puzzles, CDs, DVDs & vinyl records for their 17th Annual Book Fair Auckland Anniversary weekend, January 2017. Drop-off points are: The Mount Mainstreet office in Phoenix carpark, Mon - Fri 8am-5pm, Car Air BOP Ltd 138 Newton Street, Mount, Mon-Fri 8am-5pm or Resenes, 43 Waihi Road, Judea, Mon-Friday 8.30 - 4pm. For collection, Shirley 07 575 2725

International Christmas Market in the Village Hall, Historic Village, 17th Ave 11am - 3pm. Stalls with a variety of goods for sale from 8 countries & several performers from different countries singing, dancing & playing various instruments. Free entry, cash sales.

Papamoa Community Park

Dance Variety Concert

Join in the fun - growing soil, food & community. Fun for all ages, dawn till dusk. Gardening bees 2nd & 4th Sat 9am - 3pm. Between 51 & 53 Hartford Ave, Papamoa. Chris 021 0241 5454 or therockpapamoa@gmail. com

Katikati Plant & Produce Market

Petanque at Blake Park

Dec 16 6.30pm & 17 1pm & 7pm.

Dance Education Centre Action Concert. www.dec.co.nz Open every Friday during December at A&P Showgrounds, Major St 4-6pm. Fish, meats, cheese, veges, fruit, flowers, plants & seedlings & more. Pauline 549 2449

Saturday 17 December A Night Before Christmas

Presented by Bethlehem Baptist Church at Bethlehem College 5pm. Sing carols by candlelight, enjoy a variety concert & fireworks display. Free entry. www.anightbeforechristmas.co.nz

Te Puke Community Markets

Jubilee Park, Te Puke. Brought to you

by Te Puke Toy Library. Stall holders $10. Monique 027 356 9545

Bay Network Singles Club

Sunday 18 December

Weekly social activities for those 55-70+. Dining, barbecues, games, concerts, outings. Jean 576 9988

Bay Bible Fellowship/Lord’s Day Worship service at Welcome Bay Primary School Hall, 309 Welcome Bay Rd 10am. Join us for our Christmas Service - “Christmas Peace fact or fiction?” Ps Lincoln Forlong. All welcome. www.bbf.net.nz

Bowls Matua

Every Sat. Split sixes from 12.45pm.

Prizes, fun, bar. Casual bowlers welcome.

Greerton Village School, Greerton Road 7.30am-12pm. Cost $5 for a single site & larger sites by arrangement.

Shirley 577 1116 or 0274 146 Community Church, 30 Evans Rd, Papamoa 8-11am.

Arthur 574 1822

Merivale Primary School, Kesteven Ave, Parkvale 9am - 12pm. Fresh Pasifika produce & arts & crafts.

Traditional activities, raffles, spot prizes. Laura 027 975 4549 Car Club race day, Greerton Hall, Cameron Rd. Track set up from 9am, practice starts approx 11am. Fun day, prize giving & AGM. Public welcome to have a look & maybe try a car out in the Newcomers class.

Tauranga Rotary Club looking for donations of books, records, CDs, DVDs, jigsaws & sheet music for its Easter Book Sale. For drops offs, pick ups etc, Ross 544 0817

Car Boot Sale & Car Wash

Pasifika Market

Tauranga Indoor Radio Control

Annual Book Sale

Car Boot Sale

Every Saturday - coaching & competitive play 1pm.

Equip available, all levels welcome. Jo Ann 578 3606

Bee Interest Group

Last meeting for 2016. At TECT All Terrain Park Arrival Centre 12noon. BYO BBQ lunch. Gordon 027 544 2882

Bethlehem Lions Market

1st & 3rd Sun of month at Historic Village, 17th Ave, Tauranga 8am -

12pm. Stallholders - booking a carpark site is essential. Email Alf hvm@ lionsclubs.org.nz

Christmas Nine Lessons & Carol Service

St Peter’s Anglican Church, 15 Victoria Rd, Mt Maunganui 7-8.30pm. Listen to beautiful choral works performed by the Scholars Pro Musica & hear and sing your favourite Christmas Carols. Free.

Croquet

Every Sun, Tues & Fri at Tauranga Domain, Cameron Rd 12.45pm. Peter 571 0633

Maketu Market

The Real Christmas Story

At St Pius Catholic Church, Katikati 3.30pm. Presented by children & adults from Christina Productions. Door donation, proceeds to Kaikoura Earthquake Fund. Gaye 027 274 8753 www. christinaproductions.co.nz

Monday 19 December

Every third Sunday at Welcome Bay Hall 1-4pm. $3 entry & ladies a plate.

Ces/Joy 544 3849

Road to Bethlehem

Dec 18 – 21 at Adventist School, 19 Moffat Rd, Bethlehem.

See the Christmas story as you’ve never seen it before. Travel on the Road to Bethlehem. With a cast and crew of more than 100 and an elaborate set built on the grounds of the Tauranga Seventh-day Adventist School, Road to Bethlehem is a must see over the Christmas period. 40 min walking tours run approx every 10 minutes from 6.30-9.30pm. The tour is wheelchair & pram friendly. Free admission.

Quakers in Tauranga

In hall behind Brain Watkins House, cnr Elizabeth St/Cameron Rd 10am for an hour of mainly silent worship followed by tea/coffee & talk. 544 0448 www.quaker.org.nz

Radio Controlled Model Yachts

Sun 1.30pm & Thurs 5.30pm at pond behind 24 Montego Drive, Papamoa to sail Electron & similar 3ft long yachts, for fun. Adult beginners welcome. Graham 572 5419

Taize at St Georges

Business/dinner meeting 2nd Tues.

Social night 4th Tues, each month. Julie 544 0277

Argentine Tango

Bay Garden Club

Bayfair Petanque Club

Practice every Mon at 10 Yatton St, Tauranga 7pm. Jeremy 021 132 3341

Citizens Advice Bureau

For free, confidential information & advice about anything call in Mon -Fri 9am-5pm 38 Hamilton Street, Tauranga or Freephone 0800 367 222 or 578 1592. JP Service every Mon 1-4pm, Weds & Thurs 9 -11.30am & Fri 2-4pm & Migrant Clinics Tues - Fri 1-4pm. All welcome. No appointment necessary. Employments Disputes Clinic fortnightly Tues - appointments necessary. New CAB Papamoa Satellite Service each Tues, Weds & Thurs 10am - 1pm weekly. All welcome, no appointment necessary.

Counsellor Available

Would you like to speak to someone in confidence. Kidz Need Dadz have a counsellor available by appointment.

Payment by donation. 571 0379

Diabetes Help

Need help with your diabetes over the holidays? Ring our INFOLine for free confidential advice 571 3422

Learn to Dance Argentine Tango

Classes starting soon, more info at facebook.com/goldenaxistango Phillip 027 309 1355

Meditation - Free Classes

Mon 10am & Weds 7.30pm at Bellevue. Find peace, truth & wellbeing, its right inside you. David/ Trisha 570 1204

You are invited to a quiet, contemplative service preparing for Christmas based on the style of worship from the Taize community in France 7pm followed by a light supper. http://www. stgeorgesgatepa.org.nz/

Altrusa Community Service Club

Guys, we need you to rotate, as partners, with the girls. No experience necessary as you will be given free lessons until you are confident. Denise 0204 006 1340

Promoting communication & leadership. 1st, 3rd & 5th Mon. St Stephens Church Hall, Brookfield 7.30-9.30pm. Craig 027 587 5115

Brass & Percussion Players Welcome

Old Time Music Makers Club

Tuesday 20 December

Achieve Toastmasters

New members invited to join this friendly group every 3rd Monday afternoon. Jennifer 544 2090

At Maketu Village Green 8am.

Treasures, crafts, produce, plants, books, food & more. Stall fees $10.

Susan 533 2600

Windermere Campus, 70 Windermere Drive, Tauranga 12-1pm.

Ph 0800 86 46 46

Tuition & boules available for learners & visitors. Every Tues & Thurs at Bayfair Reserve, Russley Drive 1pm.

Margie 542 0084 or 021 0293 7459

Cards 500

Every Tues & Thurs Mt Maunganui Senior Citizen’s, 345 Maunganui Rd 12.45pm. 575 4650

Ocean Running

5k run & walk around Mauao base track every Tues. Register from 5.15pm at Mt Ocean Sports Club, Pilot Bay. $5 entry includes free drink after run/walk & chance to win spot prize. Walkers start 5.45pm, runners 6pm.

Phil 021 383 354

Otumoetai Matua Walking Group

Every Tues at Kulim Park 9am.

Phone 576 7339

Petanque - Tauranga/BOP Club

Every Tues & Sun at Blake Park 1pm.

Equip available, all coaching given. All welcome. Jo Ann 578 3606

Russian New Year Celebration

Dec 27 at Arataki Community Centre 4pm. Please bring a plate for shared dinner. Entry fee $5. Organised by Tauranga Russian Speaking Community.

Marina 021 781 968

Tauranga Scrabble Club

Every Tues at Tauranga Bridge Club, Ngatai Rd 8.50am. 3 games $2.50. New players welcome. 544 8372

Wednesday 21 December Bowls Indoor

Every Weds & Fri Mt Maunganui Senior Citizen’s, 3.45 Maunganui Rd 12.45pm. 575 4650

Friends of the Library

Tauranga City Silver Band

Papamoa Library Book Group meet 10am. Theme this month: Traditions. All welcome. Pam 571 2566

Practice every Mon 7pm. Some instruments & tuition available. New players welcome. Jeremy 021 132 3341

Tauranga Friendship Force A bounty of new international travel friends. Meet 3rd Sunday monthly.

Barbara 574 5711 or email: reg. clothier@gmail.com

Te Puke Country Music Club Christmas Celebration at St Pat’s Hall, Te Puke 11am. Plate for fingerfood lunch please. Afternoon tea supplied by the club. See you there!

Tauranga Rock n Roll Club Inc

Club night every Mon at Tauranga RSA, Cameron Rd, Greerton 8pm. Relaxed, social evening of dancing. Members $3, non-members $5. Visitors welcome. Check the Facebook pages.

Trina 575 7461 a/hs

Toi Ohomai Campus Tour

Check out all the facilities at

Healing Rooms

Experience God’s healing touch, Weds 1-3pm. No charge, all ages welcome.

Change of venue in December so please call/txt first. 021 110 0878 www.healingrooms.co.nz

Tauranga Mid-Week Tramping Group

L. Okataina to Rangitoto Peak trig.

Grade mod, approx. 5.5hrs. Debbie 543 0949

ALCHEMY

NATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL

15 April 2017

ALI HARPER IN A DORIS DAY SPECIAL 4 May 2017

THE PINK FLOYD EXPERIENCE 18 May 2017

Great for Mum!

2. SELECT SHOW OR TICKETEK VOUCHER FOR * Great for Dad!

Take your Friends!

1. SELECT SHOW/S *

Nana would love it!

When you don’t know what to buy your loved ones for Xmas…

Surprise them with a fantastic Ticketek Show Voucher at Baycourt.

MARY POPPINS 23 Sept–7 Oct 2017

Mum

Dad

Grandparents

Brother

Sister

Friends

3. PURCHASE ONLINE AND SEND AS A XMAS PRESENT * Can select 1 or more.

Visit baycourt.co.nz for purchase details

The Weekend Sun

Thursday 22 December Festive Market

Tauranga Farmers Market at Tauranga Primary School, cnr 5th Ave/Cameron Rd 2.30-5.30pm. No markets Dec 24 & 31

Friends of the Library

Greerton Library Chat Group. No meeting in December. In recess until February. Pam 571 2566

LOL Laughter Wellness

Laughter - the best medicine. Come & get your weekly dose. Penguin Room, Arataki Community Centre, Mt Maunganui 7-7.45pm. $3 door charge. Trish 022 036 6768 email: lollaughterwellness@gmail.com

47

Petanque

Cliff Road Club every Thurs & Sun at Cliff Rd 1pm. Equipment & tuition available. Charles 570 1099

Step by Step

Alcoholics Anonymous open meeting every Thurs at Salvation Army Hall, Eversham St, Bayfair 7.30pm.

The Original Greerton Hall Market

Our big Christmas market 8am - 1pm. Crafts, plants, produce, bric-a-brac. Stall in hall & outside.

Balloons & treats for kids, frequent spot prizes for adults, and of course there will be Christmas music.

Still wanting buskers

to sing Christmas Carols to add to the festive atmosphere. If you can help with this, contact Tricia/Gary 543 1487 or 027 908 2952 www. facebook.com/greertonhallmarket or greertonmarket@actrix.co.nz

Friday 23 December The Sociables

A 30’s/40’s age group of males & females that meet up once a week to socialise by dining out or participating in local activities & events. 022 0120 376

Merry Christmas Everyone

Friday 16 December 2016

Friday 16 December 2016

The Weekend Sun

48

God is with us this Christmas

Well, we’re definitely into countdown time for Christmas now. I hope you have your Christmas tree lights up and most of your Christmas shopping done.

Downunder everything happens at once – Christmas, end of school year prizegivings, school and work breakups, summer holidays.

It’s hard to find space to give Christmas its due in such a full-on time.

But it was into such a hurly-burly that Jesus was born.

Nine months pregnant and the government springs a census to be taken only in your home town, a difficult journey back to your husband’s town, the place full to the brim with nowhere

to stay. And while we are at it, if it was Joseph’s home town, how come the rallies couldn’t put them up? Some family issues there maybe?

And surely Joseph might have booked ahead. But no.

It was very busy and fussy and full of human chaos.

So no different from today – it’s hard for God to get fitted in.

But I guess the message is God comes to us – as we are – into our chaos, our strained family life, our modest economic means and the political upheavals that impact the least of us.

God squeezed himself into our world as it was – and is.

So we don’t expect the world to pause and take notice? It didn’t happen the first time and doesn’t really happen now.

But Mary and Joseph knew that something special had happened – the world had changed forever – shepherds and wise men bore witness, the Angels sang and the star shone.

For us the world may not stand still for our Christmas God moment, but for every heart and family that does stop and listen and take time to give thanks for what God has done in coming to us in His son, Jesus.

The world will change – it will be less chaotic and confused.

We will be more grounded and aware we exist in God’s world, that there is more of value than what we see with our eyes, and God will always be close to us.

It will be a moment when, despite the hugeness and challenges of the world around us, we will know God is with us.

Paul Williamson, Holy Trinity Tauranga

CHRISTMAS DAY @ 9.30AM

Saying grace

7 OAK LANE JUDEA CHRISTMAS SERVICE

FOLLOWED BY BLT BRUNCH AND FRESH BARISTA COFFEE

Whether we are aware of it or not the ‘grace’ of God is as important to human beings as the air we breathe. ‘Grace’ has been called amazing, it has been called Glorious and it has even been called outrageous.

JANUARY SUMMER SERIES SUNDAYS 9.30AM

www.citychurchtauranga.org.nz

CHRISTMAS WITH BETHLEHEM BAPTIST CHURCH Saturday 17 December

“A Night Before Christmas” at Bethlehem College (Sunday 18th if wet) Gates open at 5pm details www.anightbeforechristmas.co.nz

Sunday 18 December

“Cool Bananas Christmas Show” 9.00am & 10.45am at Bethlehem Baptist Church, 90 Bethlehem Road

Sunday 25 December

“Christmas Day” at Bethlehem Baptist Church, 90 Bethlehem Road 9.00am & 10.00am

www.bethlehem.org.nz

‘Grace’ by definition is the unearned, undeserved, favour of God towards human beings. Every good thing we enjoy in life is given to us as a free gift from our Creator. Grace is not earned and it is not given to us because we deserve it. All mankind is able to daily enjoy the gift of life because of God’s amazing, glorious grace.

However, the bible tells us there is another gift God wants to give his created children.

Every Christmas we remember this amazing gift of grace when we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.

John, a dearly loved disciple of Jesus put it this way. “God loved the world so much that he gave his only son that whoever would believe in him would have eternal life” (John 3:16).

God sending his Son to suffer and die for us is the most Amazing demonstration of the Glorious Grace of God the planet has ever seen.

But even more amazing is the fact that this gift of eternal life is free.

We can’t earn it and we don’t deserve it. It is freely offered to all who simply… believe.

May Grace and peace be yours in abundance this Christmas. God bless.

Dave Fredrickson, Mount Baptist, Mount Maunganui

The Weekend Sun

49

Friday 16 December 2016

Celebrating His birthday

Once again we are entering the time to celebrate the birth of Christ. Whether or not it is the correct day is irrelevant. We need a day to celebrate His birthday, which is acknowledged by the whole world whoever they are, because about 2016 years ago He was born.

Even the virgin birth is challenged by many because they cannot comprehend that Mary, a virgin, was impregnated by the Holy Spirit to

bring forth a perfect saviour.

The western world leans towards Greek thinking where the mind is predominate, there has to be an explanation for everything, which of course science cannot prove.

Hebrew thinking predominately comes from the heart.

Have you noticed the miracles of God that happen every day are ignored by the media big time?

Because it cannot be explained, and instead people prefer to read about the depravity of man.

A very merry Christmas and a happy New Year – hear the truth Pastor Rod Collins about Jesus.

Christmas as we never expected For Christians, Christmas is one of our greatest celebrations.

A time when God selflessly gave without restraint. When love entered the world in the form of a baby to fulfill an intended purpose 33 years later.

An angel foretold that: “She [Mary] will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins (Matthew 1:21)”.

Yes, Christmas is our celebration of when God stepped into human history to do what the world said would never happen.

Although God didn’t do things the way the world expected, He nevertheless “so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16)”.

If Jesus had come to lead a revolt or bring political reform, he failed. If to lead religious revival or resolve racial tension, this he also failed. No, baby Jesus came to do that which humanity could not do for themselves – to save them from the eternal consequences of the very sins they denied being guilty of.

While the world wants political, military, and financial reform, God gives us a Saviour from sins.

God never intended to cause a worldwide 6pm Children’s Service revolution, just a personal transformation for those 10.30pm Christmas Cake who would believe in His Son, Jesus Christ.

Light of the World Christmas Eve

Pastor Lincoln Forlong, Bay Bible Fellowship

10.45pm Carols & Service

Christmas Day 8am – Traditional 10am – Families

www.holytrinitytauranga.com

IT’S ALL ABOUT

presence CHRISTMAS AT CITY CHURCH

Friday 16 December 2016

CLASSIFIEDSECTION PH: 07 928 3042 or email tinesha@thesun.co.nz these pages can be viewed online at www.sunlive.co.nz

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Admin

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For prompt, efficient, professional service

call Vivienne on 07 579 9130 email vivienne@adminz.co.nz

The Weekend Sun

50

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trades & services

The Weekend Sun

Friday 16 December 2016

51

trades & services

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doors • windows locks • hinges handles conservatories

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The Weekend Sun

52

trades & services

deceased

Celebrate the memory of loved ones.

COMPUTER PROBLEMS? Relax!

Tauranga Computers Ltd

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The Weekend Sun

Friday 16 December 2016

53

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SPACE? Ideal as an extra bedroom or home office

Hon Simon Bridges MP for Tauranga

Todd Muller

MP for Bay of Plenty We wish you a Merry Christmas. Our offices will be closed for the Christmas break at noon Wednesday 21 December 2016 and reopen on Monday 16 January 2017.

Hon Simon Bridges MP A 35A Third Avenue, Tauranga | P 07 579 9016 E taurangamp@parliament.govt.nz

Todd Muller MP A 3/9 Domain Road, Papamoa | P (07) 542 0505 E todd.mullerMP@parliament.govt.nz

Authorised by Hon Simon Bridges and Todd Muller MP, 3/9 Domain Road, Papamoa, 3118.

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Friday 16 December 2016

The Weekend Sun

54

health & beauty

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book online now trades & services BRYCE DECORATING Interior & exterior painting, wallpapering.

Quality work. Ph Wayne 579 5588 or 021 162 7052 ELECTRICIAN, 18+ years experience, NZ registered.

Residential & commercial, maintenance & service, new builds, renovations. Fast, friendly service. Ph Andrew 022 354 1960

mobility financial ADD SOME SIZZLE TO YOUR SUMMER! Prize valued at $750!

WE URGE YOU, our brothers, to warn the idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. See that no one pays back wrong for wrong, but at all times make it your aim to do good to one another and to all people’. 1 Thessalonians 5:14-15

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1262 Cameron Road, Greerton, Tauranga

accommodation HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION Romantic, separate, selfcontained accommodation with a touch of luxury. Rural location 5 minutes from Hobbiton. Sleeps up to four. Continental breakfast included. Phone 021 0595 185

cars for sale CAR FAIR – buy or sell any vehicle every Sunday at 11th Avenue Car park opposite Mad Butcher 8am-noon. Ph for more information 027 733 9686 or www.taurangacarfair.co.nz

computers COMPUTER GETTING you down? Problems, viruses, upgrades, internet, new or refurb PC’s tuition, or advice. Ph Bruce for a no obligation chat or quote 576 7940 or 021 260 9183

DON’T GET TRIPPED UP by life’s roadblocks

FREE ON SITE DIAGNOSIS & quote. We come to you.

Pensioner discounts. Ph Kyle at Tech Solutions 027 828 7078

Choose to keep moving with our wide range of Mobility Scooters • 4 Quality brands • FREE Home trials • FREE Comprehensive training • FREE 3 Years AA roadside rescue • First service at half price • Funding options available

curriculum vitae

Choose Life... Choose Life Unlimited!

Freephone 0800 008 011 160 Devonport Road, Tauranga www.lifeunlimited.net.nz

Life Unlimited Charitable Trust

NEED A C.V.? Don’t let your C.V. get lost amongst all the others. I can help you stand out on paper.

A C.V. For You can provide you with a personal and professional touch. From scratch or updating existing ones. Check out samples on www.facebook.com/acvforyou or Ph/text on 021 27 27 912

for sale

financial

for sale RETRO LADIES BIKE, with carrier and basket. As new 1 year old, never been ridden. $500. Ph 578 1069

gardening ABLE GARDENER, experienced, efficient, knowledgeable, highly qualified. Maintenance, pruning, hedges, shrubs, roses; disease/ pest control, lifestyle blocks, garden renovations; design & plant. Ph Tita 027 654 8781 or a/h 542 0120

health & beauty NATURAL NEW ZEALAND Health Products & Clinic.

Something for everyone. NZ Registered Natural Therapies & Natural Medicine Practitioners.

Opposite BP Te Puke. Ph 573 5533 www.naturaltherapiesnz. com and www.kiwikitz.com

livestock AC PETFOODS collect injured & unwanted cows & horses. Ph 800 369 6269

lost and found FOUND KITTENS VARIOUS colours, various area, Ph SPCA 07 578 0245 Found black/white female cat, Matakana area, Ref: 81030 Ph SPCA Found black/white female cat, Judea area, Ref: 81125 Ph SPCA Found tabby female cat, Te Puke area, Ref: 81198 Ph SPCA Found black/white female cat, Greerton area, Ref: 81255 Ph SPCA Found white female cat, Greerton area, Ref: 81388 Ph SPCA Found tan pitbull adult, Mount Maunganui, Ref: 81202 Ph SPCA Found tabby female cat, Papamoa area, Ref: 81404 Ph SPCA

situations vacant STUART MORRISON PAINTING wanting domestic/commercial painter. Must be experienced in all aspects of painting.

Ph 0274 967 611

Give

SOMEONE A

Christmas REMEMBER TO

SEE US FOR

FSP 176104

trades & services

PERSONAL LOANS

0800 34 62 63 | www.linsa.co.nz 1 7 4 D E V O N P O R T R O A D, TAU R A N G A | ( 0 7 ) 5 7 8 7 7 1 7 Terms and conditions apply. Subject to Linsa Finance lending criteria and responsible lending guidelines.

All loans must be approved and drawn down in our branch. Establishment and account maintenance fees apply.

APPLIANCE REPAIRS For service of all Fisher & Paykel, Haier and Elba appliances, Ph 0800 372 273 for your local technician.

APPLIANCE REPAIRS Qualified professional service to most brands of whiteware. Servicing Mt Maunganui, Papamoa and Te Puke. Pensioner discounts available. Ph 542 0540 or 021 426 978 BOAT BUILDING repairs and maintenance. Timber & fibreglass trade qualified, boat builder. Ph Shaun 021 992 491 or 07 552 0277

HANDYMAN BUILDING and section maintenance, decks, fencing, pergolas, painting, water blasting, odd jobs. Free quotes Ph Rossco 027 270 3313 or 544 5911 INSECT SCREENS Measure.

Make. Mend. Ph Rob at Magic Seal 543 4940 PAINTER/DECORATOR Interior and Exterior, quality workmanship friendly services. Over 20 years specialising in residential and more. Quality paint at trade prices. For your best advice in all areas. Ph Shane Mount/Tauranga Decorators 07 544 6495 or 021 575 307 PAINTING & DECORATING Exterior & Interior Painting Gurus, Roof Painting, High quality workmanship, prompt service, fully insured, satisfaction guaranteed, get the A Team @ Fresh Coats Painting.

Ph 022 421 4261 PLASTERING, INTERIOR WALLS & ceilings. Tradesman 30yrs exp. Skimming, painting prep. Small jobs OK. Ph Murray 027 266 5657 QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE before Christmas, 30 years experience. “No job too big or small.” Ph Mark 0274 514 153 ROOF REPAIRS free quotes for all maintenance of leaking roofs, gutter cleaning & repairs.

Chimney maintenance & repairs.

Registered roofer, 30yrs exp. Ph Peter 542 4291 or 027 436 7740 STANDARD HEATPUMP CLEAN and Sanitise $69 - Premium Clean $99. All technicians drug and police checked. Ph Airify on 0800 247 439 TILER 30 YEARS + experience, qualified in all aspects of tiling.

Available now! Ph 0204 0864 211 TREE SHRUB and hedges trimming, topping removal, rubbish removal, palm pruning or removal, satisfaction guaranteed free quote. Ph Steve Hockly 571 5958 or 027 498 1857 WANT YOUR OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING area covered?

We offer cost effective solutions for your outdoor space and specialise in the manufacture of framed pergolas and bespoke outdoor furniture. For your free quote ph Matrix Metal Solutions 543 2017 www.matrix.org.nz

travel & tours ”A A A” - MEMORABLE SUMMER & AUTUMN TOURS 2016 & 2017. Our early 2017 FEATURE TOUR is our “2017 complete Autumn South Island Tour”, this is a great trip with so much to see, and do. Seats are limited and we are taking bookings now. Or maybe our North Island Train Trip which is a great couple days away. Contact us for full details, and to chat about our other unique trips we have coming up. Including for your Free Newsletter. We provide door to door service (we will pick you up, and take you home again after tours). Ph Hinterland Tours Team on 575 8118 or 027 235 7714

The Weekend Sun

RUN ON LISTINGS

Auryn Symonds, 15, with leading seaman combat specialist Chris Wise.

travel & tours NO 8 TOURS NEW ZEALAND’S SENIOR TRAVEL CLUB – When you just don’t know what to buy for your Senior Relative, the perfect gift could be a No8 Tours Christmas Voucher. Let your senior relative choose from one of our fully escorted tours of their choice. Any denomination acceptable and we will send them or you our lovely full colour catalogue that has all our tours listed with prices and they can choose what tour they would like. All tours have a free Door to Door service so this makes the experience very simple and easy for them. Choose from our Fully Escorted Extended Tours, Day Trips or Shows Options: Contact Us Now- Ph. No 8 Tours team on 579 3981 or Email info@no8tours.co.nz

venues

FOR WEDDINGS, FUNCTIONS OR MEETINGS+ check out No.1 The Strand, a beautiful historic setting. Email: kim@ no1thestrand.co.nz or www. no1thestrand.co.nz WEDDINGS, PARTIES, MEETINGS etc - The perfect venue. With stunning Harbour views, fully licensed bar & kitchen onsite. Restaurant open every Friday from 5pm & Sunday from 4.30pm, kids under 12 years dine free with every paying adult. Tauranga Fish & Dive Club, 60 Cross Rd, Sulphur Point. Ph 571 8450

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Isabel Meija, 8, being taught archery by Wayne Phillips dressed as a 13th Century archer at the Tauranga A and P Show.

Charlie Huxtable, 5, Jeanna Huxtable, 9, and Yvette Huxtable, 7, with their catches.

Paul Edwards, 19, Tyler Coyle, 18, Liam Allen, 19, and Zak Ramsey, 18, enjoying the beach in January.

Elliette Siebert, 13 months, at Mainly Music earlier this year.

The Weekend Sun is always out-and-about, snapping photos in the community. This week, we’ve rifled through the archives and found our pick of pics from throughout the year.

Maia St Clair, 6, on the pumpkins.

work wanted

QUALIFIED LANDSCAPER Design, create, build and maintain, or general tidy up. Good rates, anything considered.

Ph 0211 817 365

Mahe Turnwald age 5, Ryley White, 5 at the Pahoia Triathlon in March this year.

Doug Britton and Melanie Stone survived their time at the Demo Derby held in April.

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The Weekend Sun