The Weekend Sun 22/12/11

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The Bay’s largest circulating, most read newspaper.

22 December 2011, Issue 578

63,760 copies

to the homes of 159,700 residents throughout TAURANGA, MOUNT MAUNGANUI, PAPAMOA, WAIHI BEACH, KAIMAI, KATIKATI, TE PUKE, PAENGAROA, OTAMARAKAU and all RDs No.1 The Strand, Tauranga Ph: 07 578 0030

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Have you been naughty or nice this year Weekend Sun readers? Santa is heading into town this Sunday, December 25 for his annual visit, with two lists and a handful of presents for those who have been good this year.

Our photographer captured Santa making his way through some tough terrain at TECT ALL Terrain Park’s Adrenalin Forest as he prepares himself for the physical challenges (chimneys and watch dogs mostly) that lie ahead.

The Weekend Sun is taking a much needed holiday to enjoy the sun, but will be back on January 6. In the meantime, the SunLive team will be working hard to bring daily news updates over the Christmas and New Year period on www.sunlive.co.nz We hope all our readers have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, and once again thanks for all your support.

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Ph 578 0030 The Weekend Sun is published every Friday, circulating throughout the Western Bay of Plenty, delivered free to 63,760 homes of more than 157,300 residents from Waihi Beach, through Katikati, Tauranga, Mt Maunganui, Papamoa and Te Puke including rural and residential mailboxes.

THE BAY’S MOST READ NEWSPAPER. The Weekend Sun is produced by Sun Media Ltd, an independent and locally owned company based at 1 The Strand, Tauranga.

Sun Media also publishes Waterline and Coast & Country Sun Media Ltd Directors: Claire & Brian Rogers General Manager: Ross Brown Editorial: Andrew Campbell, Edward Scragg, Sheryl Brown, Laura Weaser, Hamish Carter, Letitia Atkinson, Phillipa Yalden. Advertising: Kathy Andrews, Suzy King, Lois McKinley, Jo Dempsey, Daphne Keller, Kirsty Hutcheson, Gaylene Moore, Rose Hodges, Aimee-Leigh Brunsdon. Design Studio: Kym Johnson, James Carrigan, Donovan Boucher, Sarah Adamson, Kerri Wheeler, Kyra Duffy. Office: Julie Commerer, Melanie Stone, Leah Rogers, Julia Price.

The Weekend Sun

Enjoying summer with reckless abandon Christmas wouldn’t be the same without a multitude of warnings from various people, hell-bent on making sure we have a safe and happy festive season. Including me.

These days, no one is allowed to hurt themselves, even if you have fun doing so.

Here we have the RR guide to staying safe this summer. There will be a fair number of you who have already fallen by the wayside – either slipped on the way to the mailbox to get this paper or choked on your toast or spilled hot coffee down your boardies before you even got this far through the column.

Others will last a smidgeon longer, before succumbing to the barrage of threats that lie in wait for you out there.

St John have a lot of sensible advice for us.

Dr Tony Smith says, “We often attend to people who have tripped over electric heater cords and their dressing gown cords. We also see lots of people who have fallen off ladders and slipped over on garden paths”.

RR advice here, is don’t be led up the garden path by anyone with a dressing gown cord.

He says simple ways to prevent falls include mopping up spills, climbing ladders safely, cleaning paths that are slippery with moss and leaves and putting a light on when you go up or down the stairs.

So if you make it past the stairs and the dressing gowns, don’t think you’re safe yet – murphy is cooking up something more.

Christmas also presents a number of fire risks, according to Wormald advice from…

Sun Media owner/editor Brian Rogers

wait for it…and we’re not making her name up… Danielle Reckless.

I wonder if she’s related to Gay Abandon?

If her cousin married Danielle, would they be the Reckless-Abandons?

Anyway, Ms Reckless reckons we can prevent fires ruining our holidays.

Barbecues

• Be aware of fire restrictions that such as total fire bans.

• Keep the barbecue monitored whilst lit.

• Once the food is cooked and served, turn off the gas bottle and let the remaining gas in the pipe run through the barbecue before shutting it off.

• If a gas leak should occur, shut off the cylinder immediately and allow any gas to dissipate. Remember that LPG is flammable, (no s*** Sherlock?) heavier than air and may remain in the air for some time.

Cavorting with nature

If you survive the home environment, don’t think you’re out of the woods. Because we know some of you are going into the woods.

Cavorting with nature is fraught with danger. Tell someone where you are going.

Take a jacket, hat, appropriate footwear, food and drink. Check the weather and have some

Christmas porkies

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The humble ham proved the undoing for some Kiwi cooks last Christmas, with several claims accepted by ACC for ham-related injuries.

Among the accidents recorded for the last December 25 were ham-carving mishaps and burns, neck and knee strains from carrying heavy hams and a finger crushed by ham toppling from its stand.

Of 3040 injury claims for Christmas day injuries, the majority were the result of active Kiwis al fresco. Frisbee throwing, fishing, playing swingball, riding the slippery slide, trampolining, scooter riding and pool-side frolics all got a mention.

A large son-in-law tackled a little too enthusiastically during a family

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shuttles

communication. Remember that cellphones don’t always work in the hills.

Check out the excellent advice at www. mountainsafety.org.nz/ • Bee stings Remove the sting quickly – within seconds if possible. The speed of removal is more important than the method of removal.

Check the bee for a pulse. If it’s still alive, swat it, out of spite.

Doo, doo…doo doo…

Then, just when you thought it safe to go back in the water…

St John again, on jellyfish stings: • Jellyfish stings rarely cause significant harm, but they do cause severe pain that may last for an hour or more. Pain is not an indication to go to a doctor, unless it is very severe and persisting for a number of hours.

• Flush sting area with water and gently remove the tentacles if still present. Avoid excessive rubbing of the tentacles.

• Putting vinegar on the sting won’t help, however, it is not harmful.

• If hot water is available, put the sting area in hot water (as hot as the patient can stand without burning) for 20 minutes. A hot shower is ideal.

• If hot water is not available and there is significant pain, apply an ice pack.

Crocodile attack

If you think you’ve been bitten by a crocodile in New Zealand, it’s time to stop drinking. You’ve probably overdone the eggnog. It may just be that vicious dressing cord coming back for another lash.

rugby game, exuberant bouncing on a new pogo stick which left its rider with upper leg injuries and fancy festive footwork which resulted in a few dance-related injuries.

For others it was the company of friends and family that ultimately proved injurious. One person laughed so hard they fainted, fell into the garden hitting their head, another sustained injury while napping after lunch when an intoxicated person stood on their face; and a dislodged jewel stone inadvertently ended up on the menu and broke a diner’s tooth.

The jewel stone was never recovered.

The cost of treatment, rehabilitation and compensation for all Christmas day injuries 2010 is $2 million to date.

Be careful out there.

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IMPORTANT STUFF: All material is copyright and may not be reproduced without written permission of the publishers. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publishers. The Weekend Sun takes every effort to ensure the accuracy of all published information however will not be liable in any way for errors or omissions or the subsequent use of information published. If you think last Christmas was bad, it could have been worse - One hundred and one people since 1997 have had to have broken parts of plastic toys pulled out of the soles of their feet. One hundred and forty two people were injured in 1998 by not removing all pins from new shirts. Five hundred and forty three people were admitted to A&E in the last two years after opening bottles of beer with their teeth.

3

The Weekend Sun

Tourism gets a boost before peak season Papamoa Beach Top 10 Holiday Resort general manager Rebecca Crosby at the resort, where the beaches are open and ready for the summer break.

Tourists are not being put off by the grounding of the Rena this summer, with 300,000 people expected to visit the region in the summer break.

Despite the grounding of the ship on October 5 and the subsequent oil on the region’s beaches, tourist operators are experiencing a last minute surge of interest in holiday accommodation.

Maketu Beach Holiday Park owner Shane Beech says people are beginning to realise the beaches are clean and the further threat of oil is minimal, with most of the ship’s 1700 tonnes of oil stripped from the tanks.

“We are starting to get a few more bookings now. In the last seven days the phone has started to ring. It hasn’t completely made up for the number of bookings we lost due to the Rena, but it is better than we thought.”

Tourism brings in $450million

into the Bay of Plenty’s economy each year and a majority of this comes from spending during the Christmas and New Year period.

“Most people have been waiting for confirmation the beaches are open and now everything has been given the green light, the seafood is okay and people can go fishing, they are starting to book.”

Papamoa Beach Top 10 Holiday Resort general manager Rebecca Crosby says bookings are picking up, with the complex almost at its 1100 person capacity from Boxing Day until January 10.

It is the February and March period, however, that worries her.

“We normally get our bookings for late January, February and March over October and November and with Rena, that hasn’t happened.”

Rebecca says the full extent of the Rena’s impact on business will not be known until the end of the summer in March.

Waihi Beach Top 10 Holiday

Park operations manager Angie Robinson says all of the park’s 66 tent sites are now booked from December 26 to January 31.

“I think initially everyone went into panic mode and were hesitant about booking because people were scared that there was oil on the beaches. We have done everything to assure them things are fine and very few seem to be concerned now.”

Tourism Bay of Plenty general manager Glenn Ormsby says the organisation has been working very hard to ensure the number of visitors during the summer season matches last year.

“There was definitely an initial impact when Rena happened, but we are working hard to make sure people know the Bay of Plenty is a great destination for summer.

“It is really hard to say how many people will be visiting, but the region attracts about 300,000 in the summer period.”

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The Weekend Sun

Aviation enthusiasts plan for airshow Like any flight, the Tauranga City Air Show is an event that takes planning, organisation and many people working behind the scenes, with different skill sets, experience and backgrounds to make the show a success.

With one organiser the former director of Product Development worldwide for tractors for International Harvester and the other a former director of a company in the building industry, the pair may strike an unusual chord when it comes to planning an air show.

But both Sport Aircraft Association of New Zealand (SAANZ) president Bill Sisley (an organisation for the owners of amateur built Director of on-ground operations Jerry Cowper, Classic Flyers NZ CEO Andrew Gormlie, chairman David Love, and SAANZ president Bill Sisley.

Photo by Bruce Barnard.

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aircraft) and Classic Flyers NZ chief executive Andrew Gormlie are united in their passion for aviation.

Bill brings the Sport Aircraft experience to the airshow, while Andrew’s interest is with the warbirds and classic aircraft.

Bill’s passion for flying began at an early age when he traded his labour around the hangar at Milson Airport in Palmerston North, for rides in Tiger Moths. He learned to fly in the Hawkes Bay, starting in a DC3 topdressing aircraft. Bill has been the national president of the SAANZ for six years and was involved in getting the AGM and Sport Avex, the annual SAA fly in moved to Tauranga in 2004.

Andrew grew up in Northland, but has lived in the Bay of Plenty for the last 25 years. His aviation passion is for classic aircraft and he is a part owner of a Boeing Stearman biplane, a North American Harvard, (Harvard 98 is scheduled to be flown in the air displays at the airshow), two CT4 Airtrainers, Piper Cubs, an Airtourer, a Yak 52, a T-28 Trojan and a Cessna 150.

The paths of these two men crossed when SAANZ approached Andrew asking if Classic Flyers wanted to run the airshows – something SAANZ had previously organised – leaving SAANZ members free to organise the AGM and various flying competitions involved with it.

Supporting the two co-directors is immediate past president of Rotary Club Tauranga Te Papa and director of on-ground operations Jerry Cowper. After Classic Flyers NZ took over the air show, the club was engaged in organising all non-flying activities, such as trade sites, power, electricity, water, rubbish collection and more.

With 148 trade sites booked already, planning began in February this year to ensure everything will go off without a hitch. Jerry says the relationship is a strategic one, where Classic Flyers NZ couldn’t operate the show without the Rotarians and visa versa.

Buying into each person’s expertise, the Tauranga City Air Show is a combination of passion and expertise to bring a fun-filled spectacle to Tauranga on Anniversary Weekend, January 28-29, 2012.

By Laura Weaser

The Weekend Sun

5

Netting success Beach volleyball competition goes up a notch at the Mount Main Beach next week with the annual Mauao Grand Slam, which sees top players from around the country take to the sand.

Among those taking part in the premier beach volleyball event for the first time, is emerging Tauranga talent Molly Anning and Abbie Meredith, who have just paired up.

The two Year 12 students – from Bethlehem and Otumoetai College – have been playing in the challenger series leading up to the slam event with a range of partners, but are hopeful their pairing will reap dividends.

The girls, who are both in the national under 17 squad, have high ambitions to take the sport further. They credit part of their success to the great support for the game locally.

“Being around so many top coaches who are eager to train and develop young players is a great help and it’s inspiring to see so many others do well,” says Molly.

After playing indoor volleyball, she picked up beach two years ago and has become a passionate advocate for the game – a similar path to Abbie who began playing beach last year.

“It’s great. I would encourage anyone looking for a fun sport to get involved,” says Molly.

“The thing I particularly like about it is it’s so free – you’ve got

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two people on the court and it feels like you are totally in control.”

Abbie says the new pairing is going well and after the grand slam, which they are both excited about, they will focus on training hard for the upcoming national secondary school beach volleyball competition.

The two-day grand slam on December 29-30, will culminate with semi-finals at 9.45am next Friday, December 30 before the finals at 11.30am.

Bay of Plenty volleyball development officer Tim Cleaver says the event will be a showcase of the game at its best and he encourages anyone interested, to get involved in the game during the summer.

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6

The Weekend Sun

Summit of racing ambition The thought of a stroll to the top of Mauao is enough to leave many gasping, but for Angus Bell nothing beats racing to the summit – and back.

As record-holder of the fastest time in the annual King and Queen of the Mountain race from Leisure Island to the top of Mauao and back, he is keen to defend his record in the Boxing Day event.

Angus, who set his record time of 18:45 minutes in 2007 will be back to

defend his time after being unable to race for the last few years due to injuries.

His record was a second away from being broken last year when winner Sjors Corporaal of Rotorua put in a strong performance, but adjustments to the circuit because of slips on the original 4.5km track are expected to mean slower race times this year.

Angus has been winding his training up during the last month after taking time off to recover from the Commonwealth mountain running championships held in Wales in September. The Tauranga athlete – who splits his focus between mountain running and track events – describes his performance in Wales as “a shocker”.

Angus is feeling reasonably confident, but knows there are a few others who will give him a good run for his money and has resigned himself to foregoing an extra helping of dessert on Christmas day to help keep him in good condition for the race.

“I’m quite proud of that record so I’m going to give it my best shot.”

After the Mount event, he is running in the Tauranga Twilight athletics meet’s 10km track event on January 1, a distance he rarely competes in, but a challenge he is looking forward to. Further out, his focus is on training for the Rotorua marathon in May. The King and Queen of the Mountain series on Boxing Day comprises three events; kicking off at 11am with a fun run and walk around the base of Mauao, followed at 2pm with a junior mountain race and then the open mountain race at 2.30pm.

For more details visit www.taurangaramblers.co.nz

By Hamish Carter

Tauranga athlete Angus Bell is happy to sacrifice second helpings on Christmas Day to help him regain the King of the Mountain crown.

Photo by Tracy Hardy.

Tsunami response plans for Whitianga Recommendations are being made to the Thames-Coromandel District Council to improve the tsunami preparedness and response in Whitianga as part of the Whitianga Tsunami Management Proposal.

Servic ing, repair s and upgrad es FREE QU OTE

The Eastern Coromandel Tsunami Strategy is being prepared by the Whitianga Tsunami Working Group using new information indicating the east coast of the Waikato region faces a higher risk of tsunamis being generated by earthquakes in the Tonga-Kermadec trench to the north-east of New Zealand.

Work on the strategy is being rolled out in Whitianga first as it is considered the location most at risk from impacts of a tsumani.

The Whitianga Tsunami Working Group wants to increase public awareness of natural warning signs while expanding the town’s siren network.

Another recommendation is for other buildings to be used as evacuation centres while key sites are being re-developed.

The working group involves community board members, emergency service staff, Mercury Bay Area School, community representatives and staff from Thames-Coromandel District Council and Waikato District Council.

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TCDC strategic relationship’s manager Peter Wishart says a number of key issues have been raised following public meetings earlier this year.

He says feedback from the open days showed people were keen to improve the town’s preparedness and response to a tsunami.

Such issues raised include: • The need to understand natural warning signs such as earthquakes.

• The need to get warnings out quickly and to make sure they can be heard and understood.

• The potential for traffic congestion and ‘pinch points’ as people evacuate the town.

• The welfare of people during and after they have evacuated.

• The need to take a sensible approach to future development in the town to make evacuations easier or at least to not make things worse.

Peter says the recommendations from the working group addressed these sorts of matters directly.

“Now we want to hear back from the community about whether our recommendations meet its needs.”

People wishing to place feedback or have general queries about the tsunami project, can get in touch with Peter at the Thames-Coromandel District Council or they can contact Waikato Regional Council hazards and emergency manager Adam Munro.

7

The Weekend Sun

The snake oil salesman Council had a secret meeting last week. Elected members didn’t plan it that way, but that’s how it turned out.

A joint meeting of TCC, Western BOP District Council and the BOP Regional Council met with local iwi and the Office of Treaty Settlements (OTS) for what was billed as an update on Treaty Settlement negotiations.

After a bit of preamble, the OTS asked for the public to be excluded.

This happened even though there was only one member of the public present and from where I sat the gathering had all the format of a ‘workshop for information’.

A lawyer from the OTS rambled on at length about the Treaty, how the settlement was being done and how local government would be involved.

It mainly focused on ‘co-governance’ and ‘co-management’ of natural assets.

There was no detail, no nitty gritty and no reason that I could discern that required exclusion of the public.

Obviously all Tauranga City Council elected members agreed because when the record of the meeting came to council this week the item was moved into the open section unanimously, with the exception of a letter from OTS and the only reason it was left ‘confidential’ was because it was their letter.

There didn’t appear to be anything of a confidential nature in it.

We all spoke saying that the community at large needed to be involved in the whole process right from the beginning.

A much better process that engaged with everyone was required; not a process done behind closed doors and then present a fait accompli.

It seems that current process is to negotiate with iwi and consult ‘to’ the rest of us. Comments were made that the Crown was dealing to the community in 2011 in much the same methodology it dealt to Maori in the 1860s.

From what I gleaned from the OTS lawyer, local government is expected to join in, co-governance and co-management to iwi with no details of how or who would pay.

Drawing a lesson from the

Auckland model it is probably by government appointments and will cost ratepayers.

Whatever happens, it won’t be good news for cash strapped councils and their hapless ratepayers.

Smartgrowth review

Another item at full council was Smartgrowth. Council declined a staff request for another $15,000 to be added to budget item of $114,000.

Some of us expressed disquiet and said it was time to review Smartgrowth meaning, format and purpose.

Mayor Stuart Crosby agreed and said that that was on the agenda.

David Stewart seized on his hobbyhorse – local council amalgamation.

To cut to the chase the facts are that it will only happen at central governments decree.

Look out David. Your wish may come true, but not the way you want.

Government may steal our water supply, appoint ‘chosen people’ to council and further pillage and plunder ratepayers.

You get the picture – sale of ‘public’ assets! Mount Maunganui stormwater problems around Portside Drive/Te Maire Street solutions were tabled and cost $54.174 million over a 10 year timetable.

This has to be done. This is one of council’s true functions.

Balance in council news

After 10 years writing this column the editor suggested there might be some interest on what’s gone on in the background. It was an idea born out of a discussion between Brian Rogers (editor) and me at the time of the 2001 council elections.

Brian and Claire had just started The Weekend Sun and I was in the office arranging some election advertising.

I commented to Brian on what I

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perceived to be skewed, negative, selective, biased and sometimes incorrect reporting by the Bay Times in their coverage of council business.

“Why don’t you do a column then, about what’s really going on at council?” Brian asked. “Put some balance into it!”

One classic example from years ago was a prominent story in the Bay Times featuring an unflattering photo of me (not difficult!) and a most uncomplimentary story about my alleged contribution to the council committee meeting.

Only problem was, I wasn’t at the meeting and was not a member of that committee.

I rang the then editor and asked for a retraction and apology. (Newspapers don’t like doing that!)

He laughed and told me if I didn’t like it I could write a letter to the editor which he said he might publish.

I tried to reason with him, but he stood firm telling me today’s news was tomorrow’s fish and chip wrapping.

He could say that because at the time there was no competition.

I didn’t give up and continued the discussion until he told me that the conversation was at an end “because if you had been at the meeting that’s what you would have said”. And he hung up.

Bustling past bullies I’ve been threatened with legal action over individual items in the column and in one instance if I didn’t stop it altogether. Wow – was it that effective?

Other attempts to stop it from some elected members over the years, who said it was ‘unfair’ and ‘full of BS’, failed.

One elected member wanted councillors to have the right to edit the column before publication. That one was a doozer!

Their answer is The Weekend Sun has always published anything from anyone written about council that wasn’t defamatory.

To this day The Weekend Sun is probably affected to some degree because of the ongoing publication of this column.

They win some and lose some – and that’s the effect of maintaining freedom of speech in NZ in the 21st

Century. No-one thought I’d keep it going. (That’s part of the challenge!) I handwrite it and then Julie deciphers my writing onto a word document.

I run it by an independent critic, mainly for unintended double meanings, innuendo and items that are not clear.

The outcome is my view of what’s really going on at City Hall to give you an insight and another perspective.

I try very hard to get it right – after all there are 10 proof readers (the other elected members).

I really enjoy this aspect of my council work and from comments I get it seems well received by many in the commu-

nity. It will continue, unedited, for as long as I’m able and The Weekend Sun prints it.

Good tidings

We are fortunate to have The Weekend Sun to put a positive balance into how our region is portrayed. So that’s it for another year – a Merry Christmas and prosperous new year to you all.

Thanks for your comments, feedback and support, this column will return after the council recess at the end of January.

This week’s mindbender – particularly relative to council and government: ‘Anyone who conducts an argument by appealing to authority is not using his intelligence, he is just using his memory.’ – Leonardo de Vinci.

8

The Weekend Sun

Winning band fully styled for New Year gig Fine fitting jeans and alternative rock tops is what Tauranga band Eyes of May will be sporting when they take to the Beach Stage in Mount Maunganui to perform on New Year’s Eve. As winners of the 2011 Battle of the Bands, the Tauranga Boys’ College group got the chance to pick out their favourite look during a $1000 styling session at Bayfair this week.

Vocalist and trombone player Adam Speeding says the band picked a few looks, mostly jeans and jean shorts with t-shirts.

“It’s really odd getting to go through the clothes and pick and keep whatever we want.”

Winning the right to perform on the Beach Stage this December 31 is a great opportunity for the band and Adam says it will be their biggest performance yet.

“We are stoked. We had just finished band practise when we got the phone call. We have all worked really hard this year.”

To enter the competition, bands were required to post their music videos on YouTube, where they were open to public vote.

The competition received more than 2000 public votes, then judges from Tauranga City Council, MORE FM,

Aquinas College indie rock band MSix also get a 20 minute set on the Beach Stage, opening for Eyes of May. They also won a styling session at Bayfair.

“The idea behind the competition is to provide an opportunity for local youth bands to perform live to a big audience,” says Penny.

Eyes of May has enjoyed a successful year, coming second in the regional SmokeFree Rockquest

By Phillipa Yalden competition for best song, recording five battle of original tracks and playing many local gigs.

Bayfair and the New Year’s event technical crew voted for the final winner.

Tauranga City Council New Year’s Eve event organiser Penny Mitropoulos says the response from people was fantastic.

“It’s great to see people getting in behind local bands and supporting them through this competition.

“We’re really pleased to be able to offer this opportunity and hope to do it again next year.”

bands

win

Eyes of May members Braden Jeffrey, Isaac Andrew, Adam Speeding, Reuben Griffin, Blair Shepherd and Aaron Baxendive. Photo by Tracy Hardy.

Power struggle in Grey Power

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Grey Power national federation president Roy Reid is accused of unconstitutionally undertaking a media campaign to stop Western Bay Grey Power members leaving the Federation.

The accusations come from the former WBOP Association executive who resigned en masse at a special meeting on December 9.

In a joint statement, the former committee members, Carole Gordon, John Cronin, Faye Ryan, Noel Warner, Tui Sanders and Athole Herbert, say the decision to leave the national federation was made following a meeting with Roy earlier in the year.

The executive was elected in June to revive a moribund organisation the then president Doug Wilson was about to put into recess.

Roy told them there will be no changes in the federation until 2013, in spite of 10 years of member Associations calling for change and efficiency in Board operations and a membership loss in excess of 30,000.

The Western Bay of Plenty Association is an Incorporated Society with a right to conduct its own business autonomously according to its Constitution. Members join the Association, not the Federation.

Each Association pays an affiliation fee to the Federation.

In this context, the WBOP executive examined its options in order to respect members and to ensure elder advocacy and support in the region.

The executive held a further Special General Meeting of members in November, where a detailed proposal was overwhelmingly supported. Members were kept fully

informed through two magazines, two letters and public notices.

A further second Special General Meeting was required to endorse the member decision to withdraw from the Federation. Although advised, no communication was received from the Federation president, who embarked on a media campaign supporting what the executive says are unfounded and libelous allegations contained in a letter from former president Doug Wilson, which was distributed to local media.

Roy and two others arrived at the meeting unannounced. The executive had no opportunity to refute media articles and Board allegations as the Federation contingent disrupted the meeting creating a hostile environment. The executive resigned. The valuable volunteer network that served the office also chose to resign. By Andrew Campbell

9

The Weekend Sun

New generation on the right track

As a child, Damon Hill was transfixed by Thomas the Tank Engine and loved the idea of riding the rail in his imaginary world.

His Thomas railway set has long been gathering dust, however, with his focus turning now to electric model train sets.

Railing against convention: Otumoetai College students Callum Riddington, left and Damon Hill are encouraging more young people to take up model railway as a hobby.

Photo by Cody Stevens.

The 15-year-old is displaying his rail layout for the third time at the annual Tauranga Model Railway Club show.

“I’ve always enjoyed trains and when I found out about the club I thought it would be good to get involved,” says the Otumoetai College Year 10 student.

As the youngest members of the club, Damon and his brother Jonathan, 13, have been eagerly learning from others how to build their model rail layout.

Damon says there has been a lot more involved in building a layout than initially expected – including

learning to do the wiring for his electric set and making the scenery.

Having recently completed his first 4x8 foot layout, complete with a quarry area to incorporate some of his stone collection, Damon and his friend Callum Riddington have turned their attention to extending it into an L-shaped layout by building a new track.

Damon expects the project will keep them busy during the summer holidays and aims to have the expanded track completed for the next show in 2013. Their original layout, along with tracks by other members and enthusiasts, is on display at the club’s annual show at Mount Maunganui College gym (entry from Tui Street) from January 6-8 between 10am and 4pm.

The club is looking for a new home for storing and building layouts.

Anyone with a large, unused building who can help should contact John Bracey 07 575 2286 or

By Hamish Carter Peter Dibble 07 576 1012.

Pin Up Pet We have lots of gorgeous kittens available at the moment, they are all different colours and coat lengths, very playful, adorable and extremely cute!

Please come in and have a look and see for yourself how lovely they are.

They are all desexed, microchipped, had a first vaccination and flea and worm treatment. If you would like any more information please phone the SPCA on 578 0245

Reflecting on life and everything

My brother lives in Glenorchy near Queenstown and I took this photo on my last visit. It’s a great place to reflect on life. I wish you all a very happy Christmas. Eat, be merry and then get out and enjoy New Zealand’s great outdoors.

Book now for Andy’s next photo workshop in February. Visit www.andybelcher.com

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10

BIKE SALE

The Weekend Sun

Duck, duck, no Dear Mum,

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year mum.

Hope things are well in Mangatawhiri.

I am having a good time here in Tauranga. I miss the gang and hope they are doing okay, wherever they ended up.

I hear about Bailey regularly and Vegas writes occasionally, although she’s a bit of a party girl and a bit loose on the writing.

My best buddy is Ady who I hang out with during the day at work. She’s okay, a bit stuck up and has some strict behavioural ideas. Must be her German heritage.

But she’s a good sort deep down and is teaching me lots of things, which were taught to her by some legendary old dude called Diesel; a choc boy like my dad.

I’ve got lots of buddies in Te Puna, including schnauzers, labs, retrievers and some small things that science hasn’t yet attributed a name to.

Gem is a lot of fun and I run with her when the boss lets me out.

Buddy is the big guy with the under bite and Weasel is the small guy with the little bite.

The big boys – Bobby and Sam – come by every morning and they are really

friendly, but I worry a bit about those lads.

Duck is my favourite friend at night time. Unfortunately, duck lost his stuffing last week due to me biting off his head and pulling it out. He doesn’t quack either, now that I chewed up his quacker.

I’ve learnt a whole lot of words, apart from duck and no. Such as; ball, lunch, fetch, sit, down, off, breakfast, ah ah and even stringing a few words together like; Get off the effing bed, get off the effing couch and give my effing shoe back.

There are some words that I understand when it suits; come, sit, stay, go back to bed.

Otherwise things are rosy in Tauranga. Hope you are all well and Santa brings you something chewy.

All my love, Flo Hit and run on the Santa hat: While everyone at No. 1 The Strand was in a festive mood of giving, Flo was in for the take. Spotting Ady wearing the Santa hat, minus the fluffy ball on the end, Flo eyes up; moves in for the grab…and scarpers.

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The Weekend Sun

New Year’s liquor and vehicle zones During summer, Tauranga and Mount Maunganui is the place where family and friends come to enjoy the beautiful beaches and awesome activities – and Tauranga City Council is once again making sure this New Year’s is one to remember.

In addition to the 365 day liquor bans around the city, the liquor bans are extended during New Year’s period.

From December 26 to January 5, Mount Maunganui from the Mount to Sutherland Avenue and along Marine Parade is a liquor free zone 24 hours a day – excluding the Beachside Holiday Park.

The Mount also becomes a vehicle free zone from December 26 to December 30, between 8pm and 6am; December 30 to January 1 from 8pm until 8am; January 1 to January 6 from 8pm to 6am. The vehicle free zone stretches from Pilot Quay to Grove Avenue (excluding the lower part of Mount Maunganui Road).

Tauranga from Marsh Street to First Avenue is a liquor free zone, with The Strand closed to southbound cars from 6am New Year’s Eve to 8am on New Year’s Day. The Tauranga City Council advises New Year’s revellers to always carry ID and have a plan how to get home. There are many buses available to get around the vehicle free zones, particularly the ‘Park and Ride’ service operating from Waimarie Street off Hewlett’s Road for New Year’s Eve or purchase bus tickets for $15 from various locations around the city. New Year’s Eve at the Mount is a hive of activity. There are free public music performances on the Main Stage and Beach Stage and lots of day time activities including Miss Mount Maunganui and Little Miss Sunshine, Battle of the Bands winners (read more about them on page 8).

For more information and to keep up-todate, check out the ‘I Love Summer at the Mount’ Facebook Page or head down to the Beach Base Information Centre on the beach side of Mount Drury, operating 9.30am until 5pm.

Setting the scene for summer in my summer break. “Last year I worked as a personal trainer. I love the beach though and I needed a job.”

Maree usually spends her New Years Eve at the Gisborne festival Rhythm and Vines, but with the job keeping her in Tauranga this year, she says she will probably head down to Mount Maunganui for New Years.

“It will be good to know about all of the events and promotions that are going on.”

By Phillipa Yalden

The Tauranga City Council Summer Ambassadors in front of the Edgewater Fan on The Strand.

Back for another summer to help people find the best entertainment in the safest environment are the Bay of Plenty Summer Ambassadors.

The eight ambassadors, funded by Tauranga City Council, will be out and about around the base track of Mauao, on the beaches and in the city, offering information and advice on the best places to go, latest competitions, events and giveaways.

Easily spotted in their blue attire, the ambassadors work in pairs from 9am to 5pm daily, with the exception of Christmas Day. Their base is on the beach side of Mount Drury, near Mount Main Beach.

The ambassadors have all the information on the summer competitions, events, free buses, liquor free zones and New Years Eve happenings.

Tauranga City Council Summer Ambassadors team leader Peter Gibbs says council received 120 applications in the week the positions were advertised.

“We had a huge response. Out of the

120 applicants, 50 were shortlisted before a final 15 were selected for a group interview session.”

Peter says the summer ambassador role is even more important this year with the grounding of the cargo ship Rena.

“It is important that the ambassadors are positive and get out there and communicate with people.”

James Tingey, 19, says he applied for the position as a summer ambassador because he loves being outside during summer and so it seemed like the perfect job. The engineering student at Massey University says he struggled to find work in Tauranga this summer and was extremely happy to learn he had gained the position.

“It’s been really difficult this summer. I tried to get engineering work to get experience, but couldn’t find anything.”

Maree Henderson, 23, is currently studying a Masters in Psychology at Massey University and says gaining a job as a summer ambassador is going to go a long way to paying for her studies and paying off her recent one-month trip to the United States.

“I normally come back to Tauranga

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The Weekend Sun

Golfing in paradise If you are a keen golfer and want to join a group travelling to Fiji late April, then check out this golfing itinerary.

Four games on two glorious courses over six nights, departing April 28 will encompass Fiji weather at its best.

Accompanied by three nights at both the Fiji Intercontinental Golf Resort and Spa and the Westin Fiji Golf Resort and Spa, combines a lot of luxury with a lot of pleasure. Fully escorted by Kay Rogers, who has recently played on both courses and can attest to these fairways being in prime condition and chal-

lenging to all grades of handicaps. Six nights accommodation, all breakfasts, all transfers and golf carts are included along with a ‘finale’ trophy celebration night.

Beautiful setting

Escorted by Kay Rogers

United Travel at Bethlehem

United Travel at the Mount United Travel at Te Puke United Travel at Katikati

Bethlehem Town Centre

Maunganui Road

Jellicoe Street

Main Road

(07) 579 3431

(07) 575 3068

(07) 573 7805

(07) 549 1711

customer service

The Fiji Intercontinental Golf Resort and Spa sits on its own sandy white beach on the Coral Coast in a beautiful setting. The resort itself is statuesque by design and the accommodation is modern, with clean sweeping lines and beautifully manicured gardens. Sitting right in the middle of Natadola Bay, it gets a gentle breeze and is perfect for those warm nights when you want to sit back with a cool ale or a chilled wine after a challenging game of golf.

The Westin Resort is quite different to the Intercontinental and exudes a very ‘Fijian’ look and feel.

This is one of the original resorts on Denarau Island and has always been

Kay’s favourite. Its location is directly across the road from the Denarau International 18 Hole Golf Course, which makes these two properties a great combination. The Westin is in very close proximity to many eating establishments and has good access to the Marina for anyone who has the energy left over to consider taking an island excursion or an Evening Dinner Cruise.

Recharge

This group departs April 28 and returns May 4, which is the ideal opportunity to recharge those batteries and enjoy four games of golf on two stunning Fiji courses, whilst enjoying the luxury of two very popular Fiji resorts and all they have to offer. Phone Kay 07 573 7805 and register your interest or ask for a flyer. There are limited spaces available and United Travel can do single supplement.

13

The Weekend Sun Photos by Tracy Hardy and Bruce Barnard

Emma Johnstone is delighted with the cookies she and Jack McClymont made together.

Alex Dunn and his sister Kaitlin proudly display their work.

The winners of the 2011 Tauranga Farmers’ Market Christmas hampers.

The Weekend Sun columnist and Cucina Amore chef Virginia IovineTurner teaches cooking to the younger generation at Mitre 10 Mega in Papamoa.

Lego, scooter, and dolls still popular with Santa Children writing letters to Santa are having a hard time deciding whether they have been naughty or nice this year.

So far, elves working on behalf of Santa at New Zealand Post centres throughout New Zealand have received almost 100,000 letters to Santa with requests, confessions and letters of love for the big jolly man in the North Pole.

New Zealand Post representative and spokesperson for Santa’s elves Michael Tull says he has helped elves process 3000 letters and there is much confusion amongst the children on their behaviour this year.

“It seems the children can not make up their minds whether they have been naughty or nice.”

For example one child writes; “I have tried very hard to be good this year, but I have done some naughty things.”

Another; “My mum says I will get a potato in my stocking if you think I have been naughty so I am trying really hard to be good.”

Michael says many children wrote letters offering to give up their own presents to those in greater need.

“The letters show how optimistic and good natured

New Zealand children are.

“A lot of them had really thought about what they wanted this Christmas.”

One letter reads; “I know there are lots of kids out there that won’t get much this Christmas, so my biggest wish is for all those kids to have a happy Christmas and for you to give some of my presents to them.”

Michael says the present list is quite optimistic this year, with elves reporting iPads, iPhones and PlayStation 3s topping the list.

The most sought after gifts amongst three to seven year olds are Lego, scooters, books and dolls, with Barbie still reigning supreme.

Bikes and skateboards still feature on most children’s lists, especially among the over eight year olds.

Michael says two wishes that pop up frequently throughout the age groups are paddling pools and video games.

Michael says the elves have their work cut out for them, researching some new requests such as Beyblades, Nerf guns and Mighty Beanz.

All of the letters received by NZ Post have been forwarded onto Santa and children should receive a letter of reply by Christmas Day.

By Phillipa Yalden

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Will not operate on Monday 26 December, Tuesday 27 December, Monday 2 January and Tuesday 3 January.

Tauranga to Katikati/ Omokoroa

Will not operate on Monday 26 December, Tuesday 27 December, Monday 2 January and Tuesday 3 January.

Tauranga to Eastern Bay

Will not operate on Monday 26 December, Tuesday 27 December, Monday 2 January and Tuesday 3 January.

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The Weekend Sun

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Taking care of Santa With Santa Claus about to embark on his annual delivery, The Weekend Sun decided to look at what we can do help the jolly red man.

With hundreds of thousands of homes to deliver presents to in New Zealand alone, Santa and his helpers are on strict time lines, so we contacted the North Pole for advice on what children can do to make the mission easier.

Kids help

Mrs Claus says the best thing children can do to help Santa is to hang stockings in easily found spots, help their parents keep the house tidy and free of any clutter that could slow Santa down and to leave out a supper snack for the visitors.

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“I’m sure all children know they need to be good to get any presents in their stocking – but it’s also important they help make it easy for Santa,” says Mrs Claus.

“Santa and the reindeer always love a little snack to keep them going – and of course hang your stocking somewhere obvious.”

Sweets

Mrs Claus says Santa has a sweet tooth so always loves any cakes or biscuits and a cold drink (not too much beer!) and she recommends sliced carrots, apples and raisins for the reindeer.

“But please don’t overdo the supper because Santa often gets back from his deliveries needing to go on a diet.”

Mrs Claus says good children who do not have chimneys at home should not worry because they will still get their stocking filled.

By Hamish Carter

Amazing Statues and Water Features

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The Weekend Sun

Aquatic team fundraise for the heart Team Shorebreak is one of the region’s aquatic and triathlon clubs, with coaching provided by local icon Sheryl McLay.

Made up of a group of enthusiastic athletes of all ages, each week various squads spend hours swimming lengths and improving swimming skills at a number of TCAL facilities, including Baywave.

Earlier this year, members of the club enquired and learned that there was no defibrillator at Baywave, a situation that concerned them for a number of reasons. For some, their concern stemmed from an association with the medical industry; whereas for others, it stemmed from personal experience with heart problems.

Rather than ignore the situation or wait for

someone else to fix it, the club got to work to raise the necessary $3000 required to purchase a defibrillator so that they could gift it to the facility. Support quickly followed from the community, with key donations coming from Phil Marra from Marra Construction, Bay Cardiology, Paul Garratt and the Rotary Club of Tauranga Sunrise.

The outcome from the fundraising was a formal handover of a defibrillator last week

by Team Shorebreak representative Paul Garratt. Representing TCAL to receive the machine was Alan Williscroft, Baywave’s aquatic manager.

“Of course, our hope is that the defib machine is never used,” says Paul.

“But we feel better knowing that by having this machine on-site, we could in effect save someone’s life.”

Alan says TCAL is grateful for the support of Team Shorebreak and he gave a commitment to publicise the donation, so that all Baywave patrons, as well as members of the public and organisations in the immediate vicinity, would know the machine was onsite and available in an emergency.

Paul Garratt from Team Shorebreak handing over the defibrillator to Allan Williscroft from Baywave, TCAL.

Lifting hospital spirits Tauranga hospital wants community groups to help decorate more wards to help lift patient’s spirits during Christmas.

Senior care agency Home Instead have spruced up the health and aging ward for the last four years at Christmas, lifting sprits along the way.

Their efforts have been copied by the Women’s Institute this festive season, who adopted the orthopaedic ward.

Tauranga Hospital communications manager Dianna Marriot says feedback from patients and staff is so positive that they want to spread the programme to all wards next year by getting other organisations involved.

Home Instead relationship manager Moira Lomas thanks all the people who donated old decorations to the cause. She says some had been particularly generous, including a group of Mount Maunganui neighbours who had given gifts for

patients. “Everyone really enjoyed it, with both the staff and the patients saying how it really brightened things up for them,” says Moira.

“Being in hospital over Christmas is a pretty tough time to be in there. By helping decorate the ward or by donating little gifts, it helps make a big difference.”

To add to the festive feeling, staff in the ward are running a competition for the patient with the best decorated room.

For more details, phone Dianna Marriot 07 579 8029.

Decking the halls: Home Instead Tauranga’s Melissa Halls, left and Moira Lomas (right) decorate Tauranga Hospital’s health in aging ward with clinical nurse manager Fay Mattson.

By Hamish Carter

Ph 0508 KIWIFRESH (0508 549 437)

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The Weekend Sun

Gift giving is an important tradition for Kiwi families at Christmas time, causing many people to panic as they search for the perfect present. But how did the ritual start?

In the Christian religion, the practice of giving gifts at Christmas is traced back to the gold, frankincense and myrrh given to the baby Jesus by the three wise men.

A special feast

Their visit to him was originally celebrated on the Feast of Epiphany on January 6, but over time the tradition of giving gifts has become associated more with Christmas than with Epiphany.

The 12 days of Christmas refer to the days between Christmas Day to Epiphany.

Some countries still give gifts on January 6 instead of Christmas Day.

News never sleeps The Weekend Sun is taking a well-needed Christmas break from December 23.

But don’t worry – the Bay of Plenty’s most read newspaper will be back in action with the first issue of 2012 out on January 6.

For up-to-date coverage and daily news updates during the Christmas and New Year’s break, the SunLive team are still in action – visit www.sunlive.co.nz Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us here at Sun Media.

The tradition of giving gifts at Christmas became more popular towards the end of the middle ages.

Various countries and people began to make gift-giving a regular part of the holy day and, when the Americas were settled, the tradition was introduced there. Early Dutch settlers introduced St Nicholas – or Santa Claus – to the new world and a common Christmas culture developed.

Gift of love

The idea of Santa Claus bringing gifts originated from the death of St Nicholas, Bishop of Myra on December 6, 345. He was revered for his generosity and it became the custom to give presents to loved ones on his saint’s day, the date of his death.

For centuries, it was the custom for Christians to give on both his day and Christmas Day, but gradually the two days gradually fused into one and St Nicholas became the patron saint of Christmas.

Today, gift giving is a way to celebrate the Christian holy day and a special way of letting family and friends know that you care.

Tranquillo is a full-service beauty clinic, combing top-level skills and the latest skin care products. Experience the Dermalogica range now in store – a perfect stocking filler. Available at Tranquillo, 76a Grey Street, Tauranga.

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The Weekend Sun

From guidance to gifts

By Hamish Carter

Looking for a special gift or some help to book local visitor attractions? Tauranga’s i-SITE will point you in the right direction.

The i-site manager Rawinia Houia is encouraging people to book an open-dated excursion or activity as a special Christmas gift.

“I don’t think many people realise that we offer this, but everyone always loves getting an experience as a gift.”

The i-SITE also offers a range of Kiwiana products

that Rawini says make great gifts for visitors and locals.

Rawinia says the i-site offers a wide range of activities, from Waimarino Tour’s glow worm cave kayak tours, to swimming with dolphins, through to guided tours of White Island.

She says the trained staff at i-SITEs in Tauranga and the Mount Maunganui can help with any queries and bookings – ranging from local activities to transport and accommodation.

“Whatever the query, whether it’s about what people can do locally or where the best cafes are, staff members are always ready to help.

“A lot of visitors just think the area’s only attraction is the beach, but we can point them to so much more.”

Rawinia says fishing charter trips are always a popular activity during summer and her team can help people select and book the best option for them – from half to full day excursions, ranging from deep-sea to reef fishing or trawling around Mayor Island.

Bay of Plenty Tourism offers help in person at The i-SITE manager Rawinia Houria and her team love introducing locals i-SITEs in Willow Street, Tauranga and Salisbury and visitors to the Western Bay and the area’s many attractions.

Avenue, Mount Maunganui or for more information Photo by Bruce Barnard. on the area’s attractions visit www.bayofplentynz.com

Improving reading levels through new series Te Puna writer Tommy Kapai is on a mission to help improve reading levels among low decile schools with his latest series of children books.

Ngatai – an active and successful Tommy, who wrote the popular couple in their 80s, who walk around ‘Kapai the Kiwi’ series of children Mauao every morning. Tommy books, has just published ‘M is for describes them as continuing to be an Mauao’ – the first book in his new inspiration “to walk our talk”.

‘A2Z of NZ’ series.

Along with alphabet listings, the By focussing on local places in the book also includes missions to find alphabet book, he believes it engages young readers and encourages them to put in the effort to read more.

“We have to feed our kids backyard stories and we will grow free-range children.”

The book features an entry on every letter that relates to Mauao, starting with “A Author Tommy Kapai with his new book, M is for Mauao. is for Arataki, Photo by Ross Brown. the brave yellow objects when walking around Mauao, boat”. like a treasure hunt.

“Knowing that if a Maori boy or girl Tommy is planning a book for all can’t read and write by the time they letters in the alphabet. He is finishing are nine, they have an 80 per cent writing ‘T is for Tauranga’ and will chance of ending up in jail, we have to soon turn his attention to ‘Q is for do everything we can to give them the Queenstown’. resources we can to help them read,” The books are available at Mount says Tommy.

Maunganui New World and Te Puna He has dedicated the book Tauranga Four Square.

By Hamish Carter Moana to kaumatua Kihi and Maria

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The Weekend Sun

Experience the charm of yesteryear at Tauranga’s Historic Village on 17th Avenue, a unique collection of original and replica buildings from early Tauranga located in delightful grounds.

Encompassing history and heritage, the Village provides a unique view of present Tauranga in an authentic, community village.

Great day out

It makes a great spot for a family summer picnic. Stroll the grounds and enjoy the relaxing setting amongst the character buildings in a place the whole family can enjoy.

While some of the Village businesses

take a break during the holidays, you will still find plenty of treasures amongst the unique shops that will be open during the break including Clay Art Studio, Capture it School of Photography, The Rock Shop, Giftopia and Whatu.

Cute animals

The kids’ favourite – Nature’s Place – is open every day throughout the holidays.

Come and meet the rabbits, birds and reptiles.

The Village plays host to some fantastic events in 2012 – make sure to visit www. villageon17.co.nz or simply ‘like’ the Facebook Page to keep updated with news on upcoming events and exciting new shops and activities.

Historic Village on 17th Avenue. For more information phone 07 571 3700 or email village@tauranga.govt.nz

Playing safe this summer Pyes Pa Playcentre wanted to use the Te Puke Christmas Parade as a time to not just share their creation with the town, but educate about a deadly killer this summer.

With the theme of water safety, the Playcentre’s float featured many aspects of the sea and harbour, including the importance of wearing life jackets.

Be vigilant

“As a playcentre, we want to get the message out there that we as parents must remain vigilant at all times when our children are in, on and around water,” says organiser Michelle Parkers.

“It is in this age group that they are most vulnerable.”

The children from the Playcentre helped decorate the boat with sea creatures, traditional fish and also a giant squid.

Creative scenery

Other features included sand in the back of the Dodge for a beach scene, a lifeguard on a quad bike following behind and even the Beach Boys.

The Playcentre was kindly sponsored by Water Safety New Zealand, who supplied many educational resources and items to display on the float and also hand out to the crowd.

Pyes Pa Playcentre’s Water Safety themed float highlighted the importance of staying safe this summer.

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The Weekend Sun

Be proactive about health Well, it’s that time of the year again. Merry Christmas everyone. Enjoy the break, relax, smile and breathe.

I’ll refrain from dishing out appropriate advice about food and activity for the next few weeks.

You’ve all heard it before and you know the ‘moderation’ rule, so I’m going to simply leave it at that.

I do, however, have some advice for the New Year. Get your heart checked.

Even if you are fit and apparently healthy, a heart check is never inappropriate. Isn’t it better to know you are fine, than not

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Taking babies on holiday during the influx of the summer season can be a stressful time for parents says lactation consultant Karen Palmer.

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where will the money come from to boost that budget? Education?

Social Welfare? The money tree that grows next to the wishing well?

So what’s my point? Make 2012 the year of being proactive, not reactive about your health. Forget the usual ‘I only see a health practitioner when I’m under the weather’ philosophy. Set yourself up for a healthy future where your lifestyle supports wellness as you age.

Look after yourselves, your family and friends this festive season. Merry Christmas and best wishes for 2012.

Advice for taking babies on holiday

OFF ALL

know you’re not fine? As a society we will eventually be forced to be more proactive about our health and less reactive. This means having check-ups on a regular basis, taking positive measures to ensure our good health before we even have a health issue. The health dollar in the future will fund wellness, not illness, as it does now. So get ahead of the game and change the way you view your health.

Health is about now, but it is also about safe guarding for the future. You have a responsibility to look after your health and more and more we, as members of society, will be held accountable for our health status because the health dollar will be stretched even tighter than it is now.

Think about how much we gripe about government spending; the health budget cannot sustain our illness rates into the future and

for people with heart disease risk factors

Every 90 minutes a New Zealander dies of heart disease or a related disorder.

Get a Comprehensive Cardiac Checkup “CCC” to find out your five year cardiac risk profile.

Contact The Cardiac Clinic now for a healthy heart.

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She says all babies may be extra fussy and unsettled during hot spells, with previous feeding patterns going out the window.

“More frequent bathing or cool flannels on the baby’s head will soothe a hot, fractious infant.

“Watch for undue sleepiness in a newborn – they have poor temperature control and may become too drowsy to feed.”

Karen advises parents to cool a sleepy newborn down and offer an extra feeding.

“Be mindful of temperature changes over the 24 hour period and adjust clothing and blankets frequently.”

She says babies may want to be breastfed more frequently, but for shorter periods of time, then catch up with longer feedings later at night or early morning.

“They may fuss and squirm at the breast if they are too hot.

“Feeding lying down in a cool room may help both mother and baby be more comfortable.”

Karen says it’s very important to follow a baby’s cues for what he/she needs.

“Breast milk is a living fluid which is ever-changing and will change composition for the weather.

“Extra fluids in the form of water are unnecessary for the young breastfed baby, although older babies may enjoy cool fluids and refreshing fruits, like watermelon, to quench a thirst.

“Most mothers need to ensure they are having adequate fluids as well. Try to make this water as sweetened drinks can be dehydrating.”

Karen says formula-fed infants will undoubtedly require extra drinks of cooled, boiled water in between feeds, especially if an outdoor trip is necessary.

“Be extra careful with formula preparation in this heat and follow instructions carefully when sterilising bottles.

“Formula milk can spoil easily in this weather and can cause gastroenteritis.”

She says each feed should be freshly made and unused amounts thrown out within the hour of making. “As always, bottle fed infants should be held for feedings and not given a bottle to help themselves.”

By Letitia Atkinson

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The Weekend Sun

Training up trainee triathletes Triathlon Tauranga’s special training sessions for novice triathletes is back again to install a sense of confidence in first time athletes.

Nervous Nellies’ organiser Iris Thomas has based this programme on her own experience of being a novice at triathlons. She says 25 years ago if there was something to do wrong, she did it and the event became a “total disaster”.

Now, with 25 years experience in the sport and eight years running this programme, Iris wants to install a confidence in first-time triathletes that she was missing on her first time – to educate and make the whole process a little bit easier.

The emphasis is on “completion” not competition and specifically targets women doing the Real Women Triathlon (February 19) and anyone else inspired to take on athletic goals. Iris says one bad experience can often put athletes off the sport.

A 100 per cent track record, Iris knows with her guidance the triathletes will finish the course and come out feeling good.

Woman attending use the actual triathlon event course to train on with the first session being a 400m swim in Pilot Bay, followed by a 2.5km run or walk.

Each session will include advice on what to wear, what to eat, when to drink and some simple techniques to make the event easier for a novice. Iris says the emphasis is on fun and personal challenge.

“The swim in open water is usually the one thing that makes them nervous, particularly amongst such large numbers of women.

“It’s important they become familiar with the course prior to the event and then it’s not so daunting on the day with all the hype going on and all that nervous energy in the air.”

Iris is also holding a cycle workshop, to ensure bikes are event-day ready.

“Every year at the triathlon I watch women cycle on flat tyres, with their seat too low or grinding away in the hardest gear.

“We will have people on hand at this session to check seat heights, pump up tyres and offer advice.”

Sessions on January 11 and 18 will include a swim/run or walk with the last of the sessions on January 25 being a complete triathlon – 400m swim/10km bike/2.5km run or walk.

Please phone Iris 07 578 7025 or Kathy 07 577 0238 if you have any inquiries.

By Laura Weaser

Triathlete Catherine Stewart with organiser Iris Thomas.

Photo by Bruce Barnard.

Precision surgery to treat facial skin cancers State of the art Mohs surgery is available at the Skin Centre, meaning people no longer need fear disfigurement as a result of multiple treatments to gain control of aggressive facial skin cancers.

The Skin Centre is the largest Dermatology practice in the country and its doctors have been performing Mohs surgery in the Bay for more than 13 years, providing experienced doctors and staff in a state-of-the-art facility. Surgical removal of skin cancer remains the optimum treatment for facial tumours. To maximise cure rates, sizable portions of apparently normal skin need to be removed around the visible tumour to clear microscopic deposits of skin cancer cells.

“These wide excisions may compromise the cosmetic outcome from such surgery and this is especially true in cosmetically sensitive areas such as the lips, nose, ears and eyelids,” says Skin Centre Dermatologist Dr Paul Salmon.

In addition, deposits of skin cancer can still be missed, leading to recurrences that may require extensive and

disfiguring operations at a later date. Mohs surgery offers the ability to minimise any sign of surgery, while offering the best possible cure rates.

What can be seen of a skin cancer is often the ‘tip of the iceberg’ – with more tumour cells growing downward and outward into the skin, like the roots of a tree.

These ‘roots’ are not visible with the naked eye, but can be seen under a microscope.

This specialised procedure is performed by highly trained specialist dermatologists with skill in skin cancer diagnosis, surgical removal, microscopic analysis (to determine the extent of the skin cancer) and facial reconstruction.

These Dermatologists have spent an extra two years during their Dermatology training learning the necessary skill to ensure the highest cure rates and best possible cosmetic outcome for patients.

Cure rates for skin cancers treated with Mohs micrographic surgery by College Accredited Specialist Dermatologists are higher than for any other type of treatment.

The nature of the technique also allows the preservation of as much uninvolved skin as possible, minimising

scarring and ensuring the best possible cosmetic result. Early detection, treatment and management of skin cancer is dependent on regular and thorough examination of the skin. Contact the Skin Centre today for a priority appointment.

The small things can make big impacts The deepest craving of human nature is the need to be appreciated.

William James It is often the seemingly small things that have the greatest impact.

We feel we want to make a huge impression on the world or do something great for humankind and

then someone comes to us with a word of appreciation and we realise that it is really in the small and kind things of life that we truly live – and from which we can draw the most happiness.

Have you found yourself thinking of something you appreciated in another, but didn’t voice it out?

The next time you do so, consider verbalising it.

If you would like to find out more about coaching, phone Mary Parker for a complimentary session 07 577 1200, email info@coachingtheattitude.co.nz or visit www.coachingtheattitude.co.nz

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24

The Weekend Sun

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The Weekend Sun

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The Weekend Sun

To gift or not to gift Changes to the gift duty law that came into effect on October 1 seemed to hold out the promise of making life a lot more simple for people who wanted to transfer money or other assets to family members or to Family Trusts.

As people have come to grips with what is involved, it has become apparent that things are not as simple and straight forward as they might seem.

One of the complications is the possible effects on eligibility to have rest home care paid for by a

person making a large gift.

In determining eligibility for a Residential Care Subsidy, WINZ allows gifts of a total of $27,000 in any year or $6000 a year in the five years before the application is made. Any gifts of amounts over those figures are still regarded as assets of the person applying for the subsidy.

A gift of say $200,000 to a family member or Trust in an attempt to reduce assets to qualify for a residential care subsidy will therefore not work. The best approach would probably be to continue on making gifts of $27,000 a year.

This is not much help to someone who is getting on in years and still has a reasonable amount of assets in their own name. Time will beat

their efforts to reduce their assets to a point where they qualify for a Residential Care Subsidy.

Even if assets can be reduced sufficiently to qualify, WINZ will require the income produced by the assets that are held in the name of the Trust and most of the applicants National Superannuation to be used to pay for the care before WINZ contributes anything towards that cost so that even if someone qualifies on the asset test, people can end up paying most or all of the cost of the care themselves anyway.

There may be very good reasons for making gifts of substantial amounts to reduce assets but, in most cases, doing so in order to qualify for a Residential Care Subsidy is not one of them.

Grandmother isn’t eating Stage 3 Construction Underway!

Construction of the Stage 3 development has commenced. These villas will be north facing capturing the all-day sun. Also included in Stage 3 is a bowling green and Summerhouse-style pavillion which will house a lounge, fire, TV, library, kitchen, bar, pool table and BBQ area.

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Everything you will ever need to live your retirement dream Pacific Coast Village offers a superior level of retirement living, where lifestyle choices are combined with a standard of dwelling seldom experienced in New Zealand. It provides the security of a safe haven with an endless white sand beach across the road and a multitude of leisure activities within your own neighbourhood.

210 Maranui St, Mt Maunganui. (Showhome Villa 14) Ph: Mike Flattery (Manager) on 07 572 3029 Email: mike@retirementassets.co.nz www.pacificcoastvillage.co.nz

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I went to visit my grandmother the other week and was horrified when I went to get milk out and there was no food in the fridge. She is looking thin and said she was due to do the shopping, but she has recently has had to give driving away.

Nutrition is important for all of us to keep good health, but is especially important for older people.

Often shopping is difficult and older people often find their appetite may be reduced. There are several things you can do to help your grandmother however.

Christmas is just a few days away, how about putting together a hamper with lots of tempting treats.

Your grandmother needs to be assessed for Total Mobility Vouchers which allows her half price taxis – contact Age Concern for assistance with this.

Alternatively, she could use caregivers who can help her with transport, shopping and carrying the bags into the house and putting shopping away. Depending on where your grandmother lives, she or someone with a computer can shop online for her.

It is also a good idea to have some meals delivered as sometimes people find it hard to motivate themselves to cook a proper meal for one. There are a number of companies which deliver chilled or frozen complete meals or rest homes in the area often provide a meals on wheels service.

Talk to the family and ask them to invite your grandmother over or visit with a meal as often as you can.

Or if you are too far away, a caregiver can cook her a meal and sit and eat while discussing current affairs or TV shows. It is easier to eat when you have someone to share the occasion with.

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The Weekend Sun

A vegetarian Christmas treat They say (who ever they are) that there are more vegans, vegetarians and fusspots than ever these days.

I concur with these thoughts from years of catering to all tastes.

As a former vegetarian, broken like many by the lure of bacon after an eight year stint, I can understand how a vegetarian feels about Christmas.

With huge hams and turkeys being devoured while they munch out on salad and vegetables.

So what do you do when you find out one of your guests for that festive day is a vegetarian?

Eggplant hazelnut risotto rolls Risotto base Ingredients 1 cup arborio rice Olive oil, a large splash 2-3 cups hot veggie stock 1 small chopped onion Small squeeze of fresh garlic Salt and pepper 1/2 cup chopped toasted shelled hazelnuts 2 tbsp parmesan 1 tbsp butter 2 large eggplants Apple syrup or maple syrup Method In a heavy saucepan, saute the onion for a minute or so then remove.

Add rice, stirring to prevent sticking, reduce heat and add stock – about 1/2 cup at a time, stirring the

There is asparagus, but we have dealt with that a few weeks ago regarding party food so what about eggplant?

It’s such a versatile and under-used vegetable.

You could make that one of your star attractions, not only keeping your vegetarian guests happy, but also the carnivorous amongst us.

Aubergine melazana, eggplant, call it what you want, the trick is to know what to do with this interesting vegetable. There are many varieties and I’ve sampled tiny Asian ones in Malaysian curries, long skinny baked stuffed ones in Greece and pan crisped big fat ones here in New Zealand accompanied by

pan then adding the cooked onion back in.

Add the garlic and cook until all the stock has been absorbed.

You can reduce the heat and cover for about 14 to 16 minutes, check readiness and add more hot stock as required.

Finish by stirring in the parmesan and adding the hazelnuts, which once toasted can be shelled easily by rolling in a clean tea towel and then rolling them off onto a plate, leaving the husks behind. Lastly, add the butter and cover while preparing the eggplant.

Eggplant rolls

Method Slice eggplant thinly lengthwise and lay on a baking sheet brushed with olive oil. Bake in oven on 200 degrees for about 8 to 10 minutes until turning light brown. Rest eggplant strips, then roll up encasing approximately a dessert spoonful of risotto in each roll.

Lay back on baking tray, drizzle with apple syrup and bake again for 8 to 10 minutes. Serve hot or chilled as a nutty tasty savoury bite.

Perfect bubbly for Christmas If you are looking for good Champagne for Christmas at an excellent price (only $59 a bottle), then make sure you get to Liquorland and pick up a bottle of Piper Champagne.

You’ll find Liquorland at the corner of Cameron Road and Sixth Avenue and opposite Bayfair shopping mall at 1 Owens Place.

While you are there, be sure to check out the rest of the wine range, including some interesting Spanish wines. It is great to try something different, perhaps a garnacha, a tempranillo or a Bordeau. The Liquorland team are on hand to give

southern smoked salmon and mustard yoghurt sauce.

Eggplants need a few basic rules to ensure success; they tend to brown after cutting, so cook as soon as possible.

If using for an eggplant pate or dip, poke holes in so the steam escapes and bake till they collapse in moderate oven.

Season well with salt if using as a dice for a ratatoille or capanata to drain the bitter juices and dehydrate the flesh ready for cooking.

This week’s dish is suitable for vegetarians and is morish for all: Aubergine Hazelnut risostto roll.

start the day. Have an excellent Christmas, catch you in the New Year. Check out the video interview with Jose the French manager at Liquorland Tauranga on www. sunlive.co.nz

Liquorland Tauranga retail manager Jose Pinho. you advice and they really know their stuff. Back to the Champagne; Piper is lovely and crisp, serve it chilled on Christmas morning with some oysters as the perfect way to

The Weekend Sun has a bottle of Piper Champagne for the lucky reader who can tell us the price of Piper Champagne at Liquorland?

Enter online at www.sunlive.co.nz under the Competitions section.

Entries must be received by January 9.

Liquorland Mt Maunganui 1 Owens Place T. 07 575 9106 Liquorland Tauranga Cnr of Cameron Road and 6th Avenue T. 07 571 8478

From

NZ Farms

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The Weekend Sun

Perfect Italian desserts for Christmas If you are looking for a frozen dessert that encompasses Italian passion, creativity, quality and elegance, try the new Bindi range at Bel Mondo.

The Bindi story begins with a little bakery on one of Milano’s most historic streets – ‘Via Larga’ in 1946.

Founder Attilio Bindi, a Tuscan restaurateur, driven by his passion for sweets, was the first to revolutionise the dessert industry in Italy with his fast delivery service of restaurant quality desserts and cakes.

This service allowed the restaurants in Milan to have their favourite zuccotto – a traditional Tuscan dessert – within two hours, delivered by bicycle.

Thus began the Bindi company, which now produces hundreds of products

including tiramisu, bombas, cannoli, gelato, cakes, croissants, sorbettis and pastries – all specially frozen and shipped around the world.

These deserts are perfect for Chirstmas entertaining. The Passionfruit dessert came in beautiful glass (that you could then use for your favourite beverage). The layers of Italian cream with passionfruit sauce and pistachio granita on cranberry jelly was a flavour explosion. They complimented each other and yet stood out in their own right as an individual layer.

The Tartufo Caffe – a truffle with coffee ice cream and liquid coffee coated in meringue

and rolled in coffee and chocolate granules – was delicious. Small, but extremely filling, the coffee flavour is distinctive, but not overpowering. The dessert is a sweet, soft and fluffy delight.

Other Bel Mondo desserts: Tartufo Bianco – truffle with zabaione, coffee and meringue.

Tartufo Classico – truffle with zabaione, chocolate and hazelnut.

Tiramisu single serve with zabaione cream, coffee and sponge cake.

Semifreddo al torroncino – ice cream with nougat and hazelnut praline.

The Weekend Sun has two Bindi frozen single serve desserts to give away to the lucky readers who can tell us what year the story of Binid begins?

Enter online at www.sunlive.co.nz under the Competitions section.

Entries must be received by January 9.

s e p i c e r s a m t chris

Sun Media staff attempt cooking…and jet fuel

Christmas, as we all know, is a time for relaxation and over indulgence.

‘For that special function afloat’

As The Weekend Sun staff take a break during the Christmas period, some of them have decided to share with our readers their perfect Christmas recipes. (Warning: may contain excess alcohol content)

Mile High Club

Brian Rogers (Owner/Editor) A bit of Jet Fuelled indulgence for Christmas: Take a handful of jet planes, (or similar tooth-rotting candies) and soak them in rum or vodka. Or both. Stir occasionally so they don’t stick together

and end up looking like the aftermath of Pearl Harbour.

About 24 hours is minimum, but five days works well.

The rum soaks into the candies, providing a heart warming little starter or after dinner treat.

Warning; do not drive after ingesting a squadron of rum-fuelled jet planes. Do not feed to children or the budgie.

But give grandma a good helping; that’ll get her Christmas off the ground. She may need a nap in the afternoon.

Merry Chrishmish.

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The Weekend Sun

s e p i c e r s christma

Roast vegetable salad

Laura Weaser (Assistant Editor) Ingredients Quantity depends on number of guests; 2-3 of each vegetable serves four 2 carrots 2 kumara (red is best) 1/2 pumpkin 10-15 yams 1 red onion 1/2 small block of feta (I prefer flavoured feta such as basil or cumin) Handful of Rocket/spinach leaves

Cut vegetables into small sections and roast until cooked and soft. Combine vegetables with small chunks of feta and rocket/spinach leaves. Mix until rocket and feta is soft.

Method:

Traditional Eggnog Jo Dempsey (Design and sales) Ingredients 12 eggs, separated 6 cups milk 2 cups heavy/ thickened cream 2 cups bourbon 1 1/2 cups sugar 3/4 cup brandy 2 tsp ground nutmeg Method In a large bowl and using a mixer, beat the egg yolks together with the sugar for approx 10 minutes – you want the mixture to be firm and the colour of butter. Very slowly, add in the bourbon and brandy, just a little at a

time. When bourbon and brandy have been added, allow the mixture to cool in the fridge for up to 6 hours, depending on how long before the party you’re making the eggnog.

Thirty minutes before your guests arrive, stir the milk into the chilled yolk mixture.

Stir in 1 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg. In a separate bowl, beat the cream with a mixer on high speed until the cream forms stiff peaks.

In yet another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg white mixture into the egg yolk mixture and then gently fold in the cream.

After ladling into cups, garnish with the remainder of the ground nutmeg.

s e p i c e r christmas

Pumpkin and Garlic Dip Julie Commerer (Receptionist)

Ingredients 1 can nestles reduced cream 1 packet of Maggi Pumpkin and Garlic Soup mix Half a lemon

Method Combine reduced cream and soup mix, add squeeze of lemon.

Chill in fridge for approximately half an hour.

Serve with your favourite potato chips, or a veggie platter.

Cheesy Quesadillas

Kerri Wheeler (Graphic Designer)

Due to popular demand following my Grilled Cheese on Toast recipe success last year, I bring you its big brother – PART II – Cheesy Quesadillas, another fast and great hunger fix treat.

Ingredients Corn tortillas Grated or sliced cheese, any flavour Soft butter

Method Place cheese between two tortillas or place cheese on half of each tortilla and folding over to cover. Spread outsides of tortillas with softened butter. Heat a pan over medium heat, then add quesadillas. Cook, pressing down with spatula, 2-3 minutes on first side until golden. Carefully flip and cook on second side. Cut into wedges and serve, voila. BEWARE of dripping hot cheese on exposed body parts!

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Gourmet sausages for the barbecue

Harmony is a Paeroa-based meat company with a focus on free range and organic.

It produces a fabulous range of unique and different meat cuts to what you would find elsewhere.

One range in particular Harmony

is known for is their specialty sausages.

Four delicious flavours: Beef and Bacon; Pork and Fennel; Lamb and Rosemary; and Razorback Wild Boar.

They also come in two different sizes, standard sausages and chipolata which are great for kids.

Harmony sausages are dairy and gluten-free and are only made from meat and seasoning, making them nutritious and full of flavour.

Coming into the summer season, they are a wonderful option for the barbecue – great for kids, adults and to feed your house guests – a must have in the fridge this summer.

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The Weekend Sun

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Pharmacy Bethlehem

Merry Christmas!

MARINE SUPPLIES

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The Weekend Sun

Suitcases to business cases A campaign to attract businesses to the Tauranga region is being run during the summer holiday to try and convert holidaymakers into new business operators.

Priority One chief executive Andrew Coker says the campaign has been planned for some time, but the Rena and Psa’s recent impact has emphasised the need to broaden and grow the region’s economic base.

The local campaign, which is being run and funded by the regional economic development agency, runs during January with billboards in Tauranga and Mount Maunganui, supported by brochures and table talkers at cafes and motels and a website, www.thetaurangabusinesscase.co.nz The Priority One promotion, dubbed the ‘Tauranga Business Case’ focuses on the good reasons for operating business in the area – including better profits (from lower costs – including property and staff ), good people (skilled labour force), being a great place to live and with strong growth potential.

The campaign draws on Priority One studies during the last two years showing Tauranga is

one of the country’s top centres for running a business based on nine different indicators.

Andrew says Tauranga emerged as a clear front runner in the studies, offering nearly one third more advantages than Auckland, particularly in the key economic drivers of property and labour costs.

He says the campaign’s key challenge is breaking the perception that the area is only a holiday destination and retirement centre and to get on the radar as a business centre.

“By seeing the breadth and depth of business and innovation in Tauranga and understanding the supportive business environment and networks that exist here, business people will recognise what the region has to offer and should seriously consider doing business here.”

The initial campaign, focusing on holiday visitors to Tauranga, is being followed by a nationwide campaign in April, before a promotion into Australian east coast cities in 2013. The campaign is particularly targeting key sectors in which the region already has a strong competitive advantage.

By Hamish Carter

Priority One chief executive Andrew Coker hopes the ‘Tauranga Business Case’ campaign will convert visiting holiday-makers to return to set up business in the region. Photo by Cody Stevens.

If time stopped for a second Many of you will enjoy this time of the year because at some stage you will have the chance to stop and think.

You will have time to meet with loved ones and laugh like children do, without a care in the world. It is a time for our perspective to be realigned.

This year has been horrendous for the people of Christchurch, as well as many of our kiwifruit orchardists and many of the financial minds of the world.

Perspective is a wonderful gift and you would all have to agree the battle to rebuild Christchurch and the pain that the people have felt is far more important than the closed office meetings between European nations.

Humans need action and even more so in this world of instant gratification. News is much more readily available these days, however please keep your perspective people.

Just because an issue is in the news does not necessarily mean it is urgent or important. These are turbulent times, however, I am not convinced they are any more volatile than other periods of our short history.

One thing, which in my view is more certain, is that advice is vital. Seek out your trusted advisers with real qualifications

and together plot a course that is true to you and hold that line.

While you have that time to think and gain perspective, remember what Einstein once said “Everything that can be counted does not necessarily count; everything that counts cannot necessarily be counted”.

Merry Christmas to everybody.

The article is based on personal opinion and may not be representative of the views of Goldridge Ltd. Josh Hoskin is an authorised financial adviser with Goldridge Wealth Management. A copy of his Disclosure Statement is available free on request.

This article is not personalised advice under the Financial Advisers Act 2008. Readers should not act on any suggestions in this column without taking professional advice that takes into account their current circumstances and appetite for risk.

The new wave in IT service

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The Weekend Sun

Top drive on Gisborne track New H an LOCATI dy ON

6

McLea n St

Tauranga’s Phil Campbell has come away from the opening round of the New Zealand Hillclimb Championship, held near Gisborne recently, having topped the two-wheel drive time sheets at both events.

After campaigning the Lett’s Builders Ford Fiesta in the New Zealand Rally Championship, Phil moved into the team’s V6-powered Mitsubishi Mirage for the Hillclimb championship. The move paid off, with Campbell comfortably the fastest two-wheel drive car on the tarmac event.

The gravel event was even better for Phil – who described the road as perfect for the powerful Mirage. He powered to fourth place overall, only eight seconds behind the winning

four-wheel drive car of Sloan Cox and four tenths of a second off a podium spot.

Again, the result left Phil as the top two-wheel drive and sees him leading the newly formed two-wheel drive class within the national hillclimb championship – which has one more qualifying round and the final left to run.

“This was our last event for the year, so it was good to get a good result,” says Phil.

“The roads were really good fun, the gravel road on Sunday is the best hillclimb I have ever done, it suited the Mirage perfectly.

“It was a bit disappointing that only 12 cars entered, but it was a really fun event and we will definitely be back to do those roads again.”

Phil now turns his attentions to round two of the series, to be held in Hamilton on February 25 and 26.

Phil Campbell

Help teens plan safe summer trips

AUTOS $13,995

Many Kiwi teens will be hitting the road this summer to attend one of dozens of music festivals around the country.

For some, it will be their first time driving long distances on unfamiliar roads in holiday traffic and for their parents, there will be nail-biting moments waiting for their teen to arrive safely at their destination and back home again.

Driving to a festival can be challenging. Teenagers may encounter narrow, winding roads, road works, holidaymakers towing boats and heavy traffic. These will all require them to reduce their speed and be patient. If their teen hasn’t had much experience in these situations before, then it’s worthwhile getting in the car with them to give them some practise – even if they’re already allowed to drive by themselves.

The NZTA encourages parents to get their teenagers to thoroughly plan their route so they can concentrate

on driving and not be distracted by navigating. It’s also a good idea to show teens how to do a safety check of their vehicle before setting off. Parents should talk to their teenagers about how to pay attention to the road, weather and traffic conditions and adjust their speed if necessary. Driving too fast for the conditions is one of the most common factors in teen driver crashes.

Getting a decent sleep isn’t likely to be on their list of priorities. Even moderate sleep deprivation can be dangerous when driving. If teens have been drinking, they’ll need to make sure they get plenty of rest and that the alcohol has left their system. They could still be over the limit the next day.

NZ Transport Agency is providing practical advice and free tools via a dedicated website – www.safeteendriver. co.nz – to help parents work with their teenagers to plan trips safely.

The website encourages parents to help their teen identify and manage the highest risks situations they might face when driving by themselves.

33

The Weekend Sun

Armstrong still top of the table Tauranga driver Cole Armstrong remains atop the 2011/12 Cody’s D1NZ National Drifting Championship Series points table, despite being knocked out of the Taupo event in the round of 16.

In the top 16 round at the weekend event, driving his V Energy Drink Nissan Skyline R34, Cole was beaten by eventual second-place getter and three-time defending champion Gaz Whiter.

High profile former off-road and circuit racing star Daynom Templeman, in a NAC Mazda RX7, was the round three winner.

After the first two rounds of this series, Daynom was languishing in 13th place in the series point standings, but this round win has pushed him up to seventh.

“He was on fire, alright,” says D1NZ organiser Brendon White.

“Nobody got near Daynom on Saturday.”

In cool, crisp weather in front of a boisterous crowd of more than 1000 drift fans, Daynom made his way to the final by beating Wellington’s Carlos Walters in a Nissan Skyline R33, the series’ round two winner Curt Whittaker from Auckland in a Whittaker Motorsport 2JZ Nissan Skyline R34 and Waiuku driver Jason Sellers in a Redline Batteries 2JZ Nissan Laurel.

That put him in a final against defending series champion Gaz Whiter, who he beat to win the round title and $5000 worth of cash and product from sponsor Alcotane. Tauranga’s Cole Armstrong sits in first place for the series on 235 points. He is just one point ahead of second placed Mike Whiddett from Auckland and six points ahead of defending champion Gaz Whiter of Dargaville in third.

2011/12 Cody’s D1NZ National Drifting Championship Series Round 3 Taupo Motorsport Park Taupo, Friday-Saturday, December 16-17

Cole Armstrong waits to get into drifting at Taupo.

Photo courtesy of O.D Motography, Palmerston North.

Diesel drops but petrol price steady The retail price of diesel was too high last month in relation to import costs and drivers called on fuel companies to drop the price – which they did by three cents per litre on December 5.

According to the AA’s PetrolWatch, petrol prices are not expected to change. They remain unchanged since November 3, with petrol commodity prices stable relative to diesel, although they have increased US2c/litre this month, but this has been offset by the gaining NZ dollar. At current commodity prices, the imported

cost of petrol makes up just under half of the price of a litre of petrol ($0.98/litre) – and taxes another 90 cents. By comparison, the imported cost of diesel is $1.11/litre, so if excise tax was included in the price of diesel, as it is in petrol (instead of RUC), the retail price of diesel would be $2.22/litre (including GST).

By Mark Stockdale

umg.co.nz

$183 p/week

$149 p/week

$183 p/week

$125 p/week

$213 p/week

$164 p/week

$125 p/week

$139 p/week

$149 p/week

$135 p/week

34

Grey Power finances I refer to the remark made by Carole Gordon recently. She said when she was asked to get involved with Grey Power it was without a committee and was in financial difficulties!

I would like to state that when I resigned in September 2010 because of conflict in the office the finances were in a very healthy state with a substantial amount invested, so in the intervening months what happened to put the finances into its present difficulties?

It may have been better for the Interim Executive to have worked to rebuilding W.B.O.P Grey Power up from the level into which the Association had sunk after September 2010 when two other important people besides myself on the Committee plus volunteers had resigned.

Re-appointing any member from the committee that caused this problem and could be responsible for the depleted funds, will be doomed to failure.

I understand that at this very moment they are back in the driving seat.

Surely it should be the Zone Director involved in it trying to sort the mess out. An independent audit by a suitably

Was it secret ballot for party?

qualified person is surely required as this would verify what the problems that have occurred are and by whom. The committee that I was part of have nothing to hide.

When I and the other two committee member who resigned in 2010, Grey Power was in good shape financially with an office that was well managed in a professional manner although after I left vicious rumours were spread against my name that I had trashed the files on the computer, wrecked the office and stolen things all completely untrue but I wasn’t there to defend myself. We were proud of this office and encouraged by the way it was being visited by members and the public. Membership had been increased. Grey Power has always been run by volunteers and yet I have been told that one of Doug Wilson’s committee was being paid $400 a month plus travel expenses. Is this only hearsay because I believe it could be true?

To get the facts right I would welcome an independent audit by a suitably qualified person.

Vivien Worlledge Executive Member W.B.O.P Grey Power Sept/08-Sept/10

Was the ballot to select the replacement leader of the Labour Party secret or not? The Party seems to have started off still in conflict. First media reports hours after the ballot told us the vote would have been close, but secret, and that all voting papers had been destroyed.

Then, later, on TV3 News, we are given voting numbers for each candidate.

I have never thought that most political activities were to be trusted, and this appears to be another example of this. If it wasn’t for the very recent debacle regarding the Western Bay Grey Power Group I would have suggested that the Country could be better led by a GreyPower Government (T. in C.) Barry Walker, Mt Maunganui.

The Weekend Sun

Uncle Ernie and the brainwashed children Council costs escalate In 2002 the Council had a debt of $52m from Route K. In 2011 the debt has escalated to an astronomical $450m which equates to about $50m per year of Mayor Stuart Crosby’s “Proven Leadership”.

The Waterfront is the latest “I want”, TCC proposals are for up to $32m but the current “estimated cost” is only $4.5m for the entire development. Looks there will be lots of extras like Mount Hot Pools “found afterwards” or is it really just going to cost a whole lot more and no one is saying right now … all adds to the TCC ratepayer debt!

There was an actual cost floating around Council in the vicinity of $33m+ at TCC? This is a wee tad different price, so what price is it really going to be for an “I want”, that takes away much essential CBD carparks for shoppers and CBD. Less carparks means less people means less CBD! Do the Councillors have knowledge of this, I am sure the “3 monkeys” are in there somewhere: see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil, just got to figure out who’s who!

Andrea Hoyle, Bethlehem.

Celebration of Christmas

The celebration of Christmas and also of Easter, has, as your correspondent writes, been commercialised.

Both have been heavily overlaid with tinsel and tradition I agree. But underneath are well attested facts of history that cannot be dismissed as myths and legends.

For the last 2000 years, give or take a year or two, history has been divided into BC (Before Christ) and AD (the Year of our Lord).Every time we write the date we tacitly acknowledge that “Jesus came”.So it is still the calendar that tells us when the New Year, which Mr Izett is very willing to celebrate, actually begins.

K. Cole, Welcome Bay.

Mr Ernest Izett’s letter (16 Dec 2011) suggests that we should no longer embrace the spirit of Christmas, and refrain from brainwashing little children with nursery rhymes, fairytales and other mythological stories, because it affects their mentality. He also had the audacity to suggest that Mr Claus is a mythical person.

I am making an assumption here, unqualified of course, that Ernie’s childhood has long passed and perhaps chosen to overlook that “big fat red man with a white beard” as Ernie calls him, at some time may have popped down his chimney, with a bag of goodies that would have probably included a nursery rhyme or fairy story book.

And If he cared to recall his childhood, my guess is, in the primers he sang “Mary had a little lamb”, and the teacher reading to his class, “Jack in the beanstalk”even perhaps playing “Ring a Ring o’ Roses”.

What next… to ensure their little minds are not corrupted, by any myth’s or fantasies; Santa isn’t going to impressed with replacing nursery rhymes with books like “The Rise and Fall of a Young Turk”, by Robert Muldoon, or “Once Were Warriors”, by Alan Duff?

May the memory of Saint Nicholas long remain.

Ho! Ho! Ho! Brian Porter, Welcome Bay.

Mr Izett’s shades of humbug Zounds! Shades of Ebenezer, Bah! Humbug! Pray, who does Ernest (Sun 16/12/2011) think consumes the slice of cake and glass of red, Robin and I place near the back door on Christmas eve? Moreover, how, dose he suppose, Rudolph got that red nose?

Is he haunted by The Ghost Of Christmas Past?

Is he aware of that other ghostly sounding state; “The Spirit of Christmas”, which many of us try to emulate?

Raise your glass Earnest, (Abstainer? Don’t worry, it’s the thought that counts) and join Tiny Tim in toasting “A Merry Christmas To Us All”.

Frank Smead, Mount Maunganui.

(Hopeless traditionalist) And Robin (Who brings Joy to My World the whole year round.)

35

The Weekend Sun

Future of TCC under Choosing to care ‘the debt mountain’ As 2011 draws to a close, we can reflect on a year of catastrophic events.

Annual losses TCVL needed “a letter of comfort” from TCC to then obtain sign off from Audit NZ for the year. This results directly from accumulating annual losses that have occurred to date since purchase in October-2007.

This “financial carnage” is miles away from the TCC budget of the time showing a mega $25,000 surplus for a year to pay $2 million in debt repayments. Many predicted this result from the start but sadly only now do Councillors see!

TCVL needs a $5 million “Bail out”, with these losses they still want to spend more on expansions, the whole business concept being applied lacks any commercial sense to be able to succeed, example the interest bill annually exceeds the income.

The Mayor said “Baypark will not cost ratepayers, the debt will be paid from cash surpluses…”, to date TCVL/Baypark has only created big losses annually. Now it is demanded that ratepayers now are being asked to pay for this folly and borrow $5m more. TCC’s own budget for TCVL was a small surplus (never happened) $25,000 for 2012, there is $2 million a year in debt due, it is a bit short TCAL is in a worse financial position than TCVL. Director’s of a company “Trading whilst in solvent” are personally liable (Statute) for the losses.

Ian Stevenson, Tauranga.

Now is a very opportune time to visit the TCC financial lemons, with TCAL (Aquatics), TCVL (Stadium) having just reported very ugly financials and TCC ratepayers have no idea what funding deals TCC has with them. A reminder total TCC debt has risen from $50 million in 2002 to $310 million in 2010 and now approaches $400 million. However, that is not where this sad story is going to end by any means, having regard to the following $ numbers: -

While many of us will be ‘winding down’ and getting set to enjoy summer ‘down time’ with family and friends, there are those for whom 2011 brought disaster and tragedy and for whom life has irrevocably altered.

The technology that allows the instan-

taneous sharing of graphic events and consequences also brings with it the choice to be affected and to care. My heros for 2011 are all those who have suffered – in ways that we can only imagine and to those who chose to care and did things, great and small, for others. The choice to care is a precious gift. I wish you all a happy Christmas and for us all and our world a year ahead in which more of us choose to care.

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE Probably looks like this …

• TECT Arena (balance to finish) $ 20m • The Strand/ Waterfront redevelopment $ 30m • Southern Pipeline & Te Maunga Sewage upgrade $280m • Leaky homes (who knows?) $ 50m

A tough year – with positives

That’s about $800m with current TCC debt added.

The Global Financial Crisis is having an impact on the world stage and we in New Zealand cannot escape the effects of it.

And on the local scene, the Psa vine killing virus is devastating part of our kiwifruit industry, particularly in the Te Puke area.

Then there was the Rena grounding on October 5 at Astrolabe Reef. While

ANNUAL OPERATING LOSSES (Projected) • Baypark Stadium • Baypark TECT Arena (estimate) • Route K • Baywave/Hot Pools TCAL • Art Gallery • Museum proposals (if proceeds)

$2.5m $4.0m $3.0m $6.5m $0.9m $4.0m

TCC will be committed annually to losses of around $21.4m on these which must be added to debt or rates, there are no other options.

Plus lurking in the wings are: Boardwalks, Mount Greens, Arataki Centre, Jazz Festival prop-ups, Libraries/Art Gallery, Mount Hot Pools and various other odds and sods. The outlook is bleak and as they say, you can hide most things (and TCC do) BUT you can’t hide debt and rates!

R Paterson, Matapihi.

The Weekend Sun welcomes letters from readers.

Preference will be given to letters that are short (200 words) and supplied with full name and contact details.

It has been a very demanding year.

the oil may be off the ship and the beaches open, the restoration of our coastal environment to its former pristine condition will take about another year.

The positives shine through thanks to the people of this region. More than 7000 volunteers came out to help, the first volunteer army to be used for any oil spill disaster worldwide. Thank you to all the volunteers – you have all done us proud.

Good news for the Bay of Plenty Merry Christmas everybody and a Happy New Year.

which is one of the main themes and behind every best wish for the season.

GFC, Psa, council, planning, consents, finance and This column lately hasn’t property revaluations are not elements of been an ideal platform for adding the cheerful Christmas fare. word merry to Christmas, but three Many people feel they are victims of items of news this week are probably our poor government, national and local best news all year. planning.

It is the sort of news that offers hope, Read these columns in full and make comments on the Bay of Plenty’s leading news website www.sunlive.co.nz. Join free for daily news updates in the BOP. With Brian Anderson

MORE DEBT MORE RATES

36

The Weekend Sun

E N T E R T A I N M E N T G U I D E MUSIC

DVD MOVIES

OUT THERE

News, reviews and opinionated raving on the music scene.

Reviews of DVDs, old and new, as well as other bits and bobs.

Stories, snippets, strangeness, and general entertainment.

GUIDE The ever popular guide to ‘What’s On’ in the Bay.

Thursday 22 December

Aqua-Evolution Swim School Summer break 2011-12 holiday programme includes Learn to Swim lessons plus swimming & fun daily indoor/outdoor activities. 2 age groups: 4-6yrs & 7-12yrs.

1/50 Cross Rd, Sulphur Pt, Tga. Jan 571 5286 or www.aqua-evolution.org Children’s Christmas Art Classes

At Freedom Centre Dec 22 & 23 for children 7-12yrs. Run by experienced art teachers. Cost to cover resources used.

Email: works4kids@xtra.co.nz Tauranga Farmers Market Tauranga Primary School cnr 5th Ave & Cameron Rd 5-7pm. Heading out of town or working this Saturday – top up with fresh product for Christmas or last minute presents & thank you gifts. Trixie 552 5278 or www.taurangafarmersmarket.co.nz Tauranga Heart Support Group Fun, rehab exercise, social events & occasional guest speakers for those with or at risk of heart disease. Thurs 9.30-10.45am. Men & women welcome. Merry Christmas!

Cardiac Care leader Dianne 576 5031 It is the Season to Salsa Brought to you

by Bay Salsa. Intro class every Thurs 8pm followed by social dancing at Buddha Lounge. Great for fitness, social, no partner required. $2 entry (members free).

All welcome. www.baysalsa.co.nz

Friday 23 December

A Night Before Christmas At Bethlehem

Town Centre 8pm. Bring your deck chairs, blankets, jackets, friends & family to enjoy Carols & fireworks.

Gay/Bi Mens Support Group Do you need a trusting person to talk to?

Discretion assured. For meetings & locations ph/txt Alex 027 358 5934 Kids Fun Friday Free Bible crafts, stories, puzzles, puppets, plays, skits, snacks & singing at Tauranga Church of Christ, 1400 Cameron Rd, Greerton 3.30 - 5pm. 541 0388

Saturday 24 December

BOP Christian Singles Jan 7 barbecue/ pool party 5pm. BYO plus shared salad or dessert. 575 5556 or 021 107 9842

Christmas Eve Carols by Candlelight

Wesley Centre 13th Ave 8.15pm. Join us to sing the old favourites on the night

before Christmas. Bring a cushion to sit on, candles provided.

Tauranga Farmers Market Tauranga Primary School cnr 5th Ave & Cameron Rd every Sat 7.45am - 12pm. Bring your visitors along. Trixie 552 5278 or www.taurangafarmersmarket.co.nz

Sunday 25 December Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting

Hanmer Clinic, 1235 Cameron Rd, Tauranga (behind Tyremaster) 10am.

Ph 0800 AAworks.

Cantata Church Choir Presents ‘Night of Miracles’ at Tauranga Central Baptist Church cnr Cameron Rd & 13th Ave, Tauranga 9am.

Free Christmas Dinner Are you on your own this Christmas Day? Please don’t be.

Come & share Christmas dinner. The combined Churches of Te Puke are having their 6th Christmas Day free dinner with entertainment & a small gift for everyone – single or as a family, young or old. Starts 4pm at Te Puke Baptist Church, cnr Station Rd & Malyon St. 573 9042 Sunday Bible Study Every Sunday 10am.

Fellowship/tea 10.45am. Sunday worship 11am. 1st & 3rd Sunday evening singing 6pm. Tauranga Church of Christ, 1400 Cameron Rd, Greerton. 541 0388

Monday 26 December

Lyceum Club Ladies For 2012 check

activities available at Clubrooms, 68 1st Ave. Jan 576 2550

Tuesday 27 December

Petanque Every Tues & Thurs & Sun at Cliff Rd 12.45pm. Boules available, tuition given. 1st 3 visits free.

Neita 572 3768 Stitching Servants Every Tues at Tauranga Church of Christ, Greerton 10am. Card, quilt, bear making, knitting etc. 541 0388 Tauranga Acoustic Music Club Trust Bar, Bureta Park Motor Inn 7.30pm.

Friendly jam session. Sing, play or just listen. Sheryl 552 5906 or www.taurangaacousticmusic.com

Wednesday 28 December

Balmoral’s Marching Team Ladies interested in joining this new team aged 20-50yrs welcome. Experience preferred but not necessary. Practice Weds 6.15-

8.15pm at Greerton Primary School.

Anita 571 4096 Ladies Bible Study/Tea Every Weds 10am. Singing/Bible class 7pm. Tauranga Church of Christ, 1400 Cameron Rd, Greerton. 541 0388

Thursday 29 December

It is the Season to Salsa Brought to you

by Bay Salsa. Intro class every Thurs 8pm followed by social dancing at Buddha Lounge. Great for fitness, social, no partner required. $2 entry (members free).

All welcome. www.baysalsa.co.nz Kids Programme Dec 29 – 31 - 2 locations: Mt Drury & St Andrews Church, Dee St 10.30am (for one hour). Clowns, games, music, prizes, bouncy castle, fun.

Mauao Beach Volleyball Grand Slam

At Main Mount Beach, Surf Club 9am - 2.30pm. One of the largest senior beach volleyball tournaments of the year showcasing NZ’s top beach volleyball teams. 578 0016 Team Shorebreak Ocean Swim Series No 3. Age groups: U14, U16, U19, Over 35 (Masters), Open. Divisions specific and age on the day. At Pilot Bay, Mt Maunganui 5.30-7pm. Sheryl 574 7594

Friday 30 December

Gay/Bi Mens Support Group Do you need a trusting person to talk to?

Discretion assured. For meetings & locations ph/txt Alex 027 358 5934 Kids Fun Friday Free Bible crafts, stories, puzzles, puppets, plays, skits, snacks & singing at Tauranga Church of Christ, 1400 Cameron Rd, Greerton 3.30 - 5pm.

541 0388

Saturday 31 December

Balmoral’s Marching Team Ladies interested in joining this new team aged 20-50yrs welcome. Experience preferred but not necessary. Practice Weds 6.158.15pm at Greerton Primary School.

Anita 571 4096 BOP Christian Singles Jan 7 barbecue/ pool party 5pm. BYO plus shared salad or dessert. 575 5556 or 021 107 9842 HRV Cup Twenty20 Northern Knights vs Canterbury Wizards at Bay Oval, Blake Park, Mt Maunganui 2pm. Family friendly area. BYO picnic, bouncy castles, come along & enjoy. 577 0049 New Year’s Eve Mount Beach 8pm

– midnight. A huge free carnival and concert event. 577 7000 Tauranga Farmers Market New Years Eve market at Tauranga Primary School cnr 5th Ave & Cameron Rd 7.45am 12pm. Top up with fresh goodies for the New Year celebrations. Trixie 552 5278 or www.taurangafarmersmarket.co.nz

Sunday 1 January

Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting

Hanmer Clinic, 1235 Cameron Rd, Tauranga (behind Tyremaster) 10am.

Ph 0800 AAworks.

Bethlehem Lions Market Incorporating arts & crafts indoors, at Bethlehem Town Centre car park. (Second entrance to town centre off Bethlehem Rd) 8am – 12pm.

Stallholders $10 per site. On wet or fine.

576 0106 Kingdom of Heaven Healing Fest Jan 29 at Memorial Park (Jordan’s Field) 3-5pm - Jazz Gospel Concert. 5-8pm Prayer for the sick & disabled. No charge & no appointment.

Petanque Every Sun, Tues & Thurs at Cliff Rd 12.45pm. Boules available, tuition given. 1st 3 visits free. Neita 572 3768 Radio Controlled Model Yachts Every Sun 1.30pm & Thurs 5.30pm at pond behind 24 Montego Drive, Papamoa to race electron class yachts. Graham 572 5419 Sunday Bible Study Every Sunday 10am.

Fellowship/tea 10.45am. Sunday worship 11am. 1st & 3rd Sunday evening singing 6pm. Tauranga Church of Christ, 1400 Cameron Rd, Greerton. 541 0388

Tauranga City Sunrise Lions Car Fair

Every Sunday at 11th Avenue car park (opp Mad Butcher) 8am - 12pm. Buy & sell cars/vans/motorhomes/utes/4x4/boats.

Ken 027 733 9686 or www.taurangacarfair.co.nz

Tuesday 3 January

Art in the Park Coronation Park, Mt Maunganui 7.30am - 5pm. Tauranga Society of Artists offer for sale a variety of art to suit all tastes. Wednesday if wet.

Katikati Art Gallery Main St, Katikati Jan 3 -5 10am - 4pm.

Tauranga Acoustic Music Club Trust Bar, Bureta Park Motor Inn 7.30pm.

Friendly jam session. Sing, play or just listen. Sheryl 552 5906 or www.taurangaacousticmusic.com

The Weekend Sun’s guide to who’s playing and where.

Wednesday 4 January

Ladies Bible Study/Tea Every Weds 10am. Singing/Bible class 7pm. Tauranga Church of Christ, 1400 Cameron Rd, Greerton. 541 0388 Nervous about Triathlons? Nervous about open water swimming. Triathlon Tauranga are running free confidence sessions for the novice & nervous. Rain, hail or shine.

Every Weds 5.45pm at Salisbury Wharf end of Pilot Bay. Start with 400m swim/2.5k run or walk.

Bring your swim gear (include goggles & bathing cap) biking, running or walking gear. Iris 577 1765

Thursday 5 January

It is the Season to Salsa Brought to you

by Bay Salsa. Intro class every Thurs 8pm followed by social dancing at Buddha Lounge. Great for fitness, social, no partner required. $2 entry (members free).

All welcome. www.baysalsa.co.nz

Friday 6 January

Gay/Bi Mens Support Group Do you need a trusting person to talk to? Discretion assured. For meetings & locations ph/txt Alex 027 358 5934 Tauranga Model Railway Club 20th annual model train show Jan 6-8 10am 4pm at Mt Maunganui College Gymnasium, Macville Park Lane off Tui St. Displays, trades stands, raffle plus train rides on Casey Jones for the kids. Family (2 adults, 3 children) $19, adults $5, children $2.

Tennis Seniors Western Bay Jan 6-8 at Tauranga Lawn Tennis Club. Mens & ladies singles, mens & ladies doubles & mixed doubles. 577 9725 Regular events see www.sunlive.co.nz under the What’s On section.

“What’s On” in the Weekend Sun is a free service for non-profit clubs and organisations. email julie@thesun.co.nz or fax 571 1116 or post to PO Box 240, Tauranga. Deadline 3pm Tuesday.

Contributions should be less than 20 words.

37

The Weekend Sun

M U S I C

P L U S

By Winston Watusi

Christmas – what you didn’t know It’s Christmas, no point in trying to deny it now.

I know how busy everyone is – thank you for taking the time to join me for this year’s final column.

And since it’s Christmas I thought I’d share some of the various snippets of trivia that have burrowed their way into my brain in the past week or so.

Frankly, given how much Christmas-related info we’re bombarded with each December I’m amazed that we all don’t know every little thing about the holiday.

But this stuff was new to me and I offer it in case anyone requires a little extra small talk to get them through Sunday.

Here’s something: in 1647, the English Parliament passed a law that made Christmas illegal.

The Puritan leader Oliver Cromwell, who considered feasting and fun to be immoral on a holy day, banned the Christmas festivities.

The ban lasted for 13 years and was only lifted when Cromwell was removed – making him a strong contender for title of Greatest Killjoy Ever.

America started in pretty much the same manner with the Puritans there banning Christmas carols. Much too jolly. But, as one would expect, Americans have since embraced the tradition vigorously, to the extent that they actually have an Official National Christmas Tree.

It’s located in King’s Canyon National Park in California, a giant sequoia called the General Grant Tree, and is over 90 metres high.

It was made the Official National Christmas Tree in 1925.

And, since this is a generally musical column, let’s move on to the subject of Christmas songs.

Brewers Bar (Brewers Field) Friday 30 – Dave Dobbyn with Midnight Youth and the Dukes.

Tuesday 3 - Ladi6 with Kora summer review.

Wednesday 4 – Six60 with Mt Eden Friday 6 – Shapeshifter with Horace Andy.

The most popular Christmas song of all time is Bing Crosby’s version of ‘White Christmas’.

It’s still the biggest-selling single of all time (50 million and counting), but not many people know or sing the very first words: The sun is shining, the grass is green, The orange and palm trees sway.

There’s never been such a day In Beverly Hills, LA. Here’s another weird thing. The ‘12 Days of Christmas’ is a traditional song. Almost. It might have come from France rather than England, but it has been around since certainly the mid-1800s – except one line.

Johnny

Ace.

The ‘Five Gold Rings’ melody, which as we all know is the most fun to sing, was added in 1909 by English composer Frederick Austin.

It (that one line) is still under copyright, so anyone singing the song in public should be paying royalties.

Who needs the internet for piracy?

The story of ‘Silent Night’ – arguably the most recognizable Christmas hymn – is interesting.

It was written in 1818 by an Austrian pastor, Joseph Mohr, because on

Club Mt Maunganui Friday 23 – Gerry Lee Saturday 24 – Golden Sanz.

Friday 30 – SparX. Saturday 31 – Shy and Retiring.

Drivers Bar Saturday 31 – New Years Eve Party. Chris Gunn live from 8.30pm.

Christmas Eve that year the organ in his church was broken.

He wrote it with his friend, Franz Gruber, and played at that night’s service on his guitar.

Meanwhile ‘Jingle Bells’ isn’t a Christmas song at all.

It was written for a Thanksgiving celebration in 1857.

And if you’re looking for something to toast around the dinner table, there are a raft of people who celebrate their birthdays on Christmas Day; Jimmy Buffet, Joe Louis Walker, Sissy Spacek, Annie Lennox, Robin Campbell (of UB40), Shane McGowan, Amy Grant, Dido – there are plenty to chose from.

Famous people have also died on Christmas day, including Charlie Chaplin and Dean Martin, but perhaps the most salutory cautionary tale is that of ‘50s singer Johnny Ace. He was playing a gig on Christmas Day in Houston, 1954, with Big Mama Thornton and a blues revue.

Though it was widely reported that Ace killed himself playing Russian roulette, Big Mama’s bass player Curtis Tillman witnessed the event and tells the story: “I will tell you exactly what happened! Johnny Ace had been drinking and he had this little pistol he was waving around the table and someone said ‘Be careful with that thing…’ and he said ‘It’s okay! Gun’s not loaded…see?’ and pointed it at himself with a smile on his face and ‘Bang!’ – sad, sad thing. Big Mama ran outta that dressing room yelling ‘Johnny Ace just killed himself!’”

So, I finish by wishing you all a very happy Christmas and a rocking New Year.

And, if you have a moment, raise a glass to the late great Johnny Ace.

Mt Maunganui RSA Friday 23 – Double Xposure.

Saturday 24 – Andy Ellis.

Friday 30 – Gerry Lee. Saturday 31 – Blue Haze 5-8pm.

Higher Ground 8pm – late.

Sunday 1 – Frankie.

The Boulevard Restaurant Bar & Café Friday 23 – Live music from 9pm.

www.manutere.co.nz www.manutere.co.nz

Friday 30 – Live music from 9pm.

Saturday 31 – Black and white night from 9pm.

Sunday 1 – Jam sessions and barbecue. Bring your guitar, music and the whole family 2-7pm.

The Crown and Badger Friday 23 – One One One. Saturday 24 – One One One.

Asian Fusion Licensed Restaurant & Takeaway

38

The Weekend Sun

The ‘Rise Up’ to the top

By Laura Weaser

Six60 are everywhere – radio, TV, night clubs and even opening for the New Zealand Music Awards earlier this year.

Across 1. River (NI) (8) 6. Manage (4) 8. Naked (4) 9. Laymen (8) 10. Condition (5) 11. Threw (6) 13. Summerhouse (6) 15. Disappear (6) 17. Insect (6) 19. Daft (5) 22. Town (SI) (8) 23. Drag (4) 24. Pale (4) 25. Previous Reserve Bank governor (3,5) Down 2. Adjust (5) 3. Playhouse (7) 4. Alongside (4)

No. 1249

5. Motionless (8) 6. Board game (5) 7. Ski resort (SI) (7) 12. Predict (8) 14. Timeless (7) 16. Not the one nor the other (7) 18. Shabby (5) 20. Shellfish (5) 21. Daze (4) W R O N G A Y W A P Z A F

A F B E U N S A V O U R Y

D R O O L C L I T R P T T

E O E C L E E K A K A H U

E S E S D V O O I E E R E

S T A T U E W U N F A I R

T U L U G R G A G O I T E

S I B W I L A M U N I R K X E Y WH T O A I T I R T L O L I N I T I S E C OW

Solution 1248

A S T U M E A K O R A T E

B O O M E R A N G L P V T

H N S P T E O M O H U R A

But this time last year, the band was a little known group, hiding out in Dunedin, studying for university and working gigs around the South Island to get some exposure.

Incredibly, lead singer Matiu Walter feels like nothing has changed.

“We are a bunch of dudes just playing shows and now we are just playing more shows, to more people, with more interviews.

“It has been pretty crazy, a pretty rapid rise.

Especially walking up the red carpet (at the New Zealand Music Awards) – we were actually really nervous about it, but it was one of the coolest parts.”

While the overwhelming success may seem instantaneous, it is the years of hard work behind the scenes that has made this a slow, but worthwhile journey to the top. Forming in 2006 at Otago University, the band named themselves after their flat address on Castle Street – 660. The group began small, playing flat parties and open mic nights doing mostly covers, as well as securing spots at Orientation Week at both Otago and Canterbury University.

It wasn’t until this year when the band hit gold with Rise Up 2.0 – an upbeat mix of drum and bass, synth and guitar riffs – that caught commercial attention. Since then, the single has dominated music charts across the country, and has since been certified a Platinum selling single.

The album, released in October, was certified Gold in its first week of sales.

Six60 has come a long way from their roots at Otago University, conquering New Zealand charts and setting their sights overseas.

But what many people don’t know is Rise Up is actually an old song, written and performed at least three years ago and one that Matiu says the band didn’t expect to take off.

“We didn’t think anything would happen for us to be honest. We just wrote a song and it

has done this on its own, it’s been extremely weird.

“There is no argument that between us there are better songs on the album. I think in a way, we are not that proud of that song because of how it is produced and how it sounds. It definitely has a more commercial sound to it.”

He says the new album is a different direction, to establish a sound they are more comfortable with.

On listening to the Six60 debut album, Rise Up is stands out as the only ‘dance’ track.

With mellow sounds of Don’t Forget Your Roots and Only To Be, the album is reminiscent of the summer sound that bands like Black Seeds and Katchafire have epitomised in previous years. This summer 2011-2012 is the sound of Six60.

Playing off that summer sound, the band is heading around the country on their inaugural headline tour, stopping at Brewer’s Bar in Mount Maunganui on January 4.

Matiu says a headlining tour for summer is something the band has always aspired to achieve and is “stoked to be on the bill”.

“Through the summers we have always gone to those shows and thought how epic it would be to play. To book a summer tour is the most difficult thing to do.”

Tickets are available through Brewer’s Bar or on Six60’s website www.six60.co.nz

Learning to make your sound your own Working in the music scene is not all rock and roll. It takes hard work, a lot of practise and an unwavering belief in your dream to take your musical talent onto the stage.

Bay of Plenty Polytechnic offers musicians the opportunity to work in their creative environment with other like-minded musicians, doing what muso’s love best – producing and creating original music.

The Polytechnic’s Diploma in Music Production and Performance is taught by industry specialists allowing you to learn from the very best. They’ll provide a platform for you to expand your boundaries while creating and producing the music you’ve always wanted to, including producing your own music video.

Use the latest industry standard recording equipment to produce your work – without the expense of employing someone else. The Polytechnic will even give you the skills you need to effectively promote your own product in market.

2011 Graduate and artist Annette Smither.

From giving you the freedom to create and produce your own music, they’ll take you full circle by providing the opportunity to play your music on the Polytechnic’s radio station, SubFM. This is your opportunity to really immerse yourself in what you love and take your music career to the next level – so what are you waiting for?

Places at the Polytechnic are limited, so if you’re serious about your music career you cannot afford to waste this opportunity. For more information phone 0800 BOP POLY or visit www.boppoly.ac.nz

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The Weekend Sun

D V D

M O V I E S

With Winston Watusi

METROPIA Dir: Tarik Saleh. Starring: Vincent Gallo, Juliette Lewis, Stellan and Alex Skarsgard Set in 2024 Europe, Metropia is a left-field slice of Swedish animation (though the soundtrack is in English). It’s bleak, but shot through with humour and is unlike any other animated offering from this year.

It is set in a dystopian future, surveillance is everywhere and all of Europe is connected by a vast and slightly sinister subway system called the Metro. But office drone Roger (who defies convention and the law by actually cycling places)

Colombiana is a likeable bit of wish-fulfilment fantasy action, silly and over-the-top, but carried out with enough panache to make for a fun ride. The very slinky Zoe (Avatar) Saldana witnesses – as a young girl – her parents’ murder at the hands of violent Bogota gangsters. So her kindly uncle (good ol’ Cliff Curtis) teaches her to be an assassin and between working jobs for him she tracks down her parents’ killers. As is usual with writer/producer Luc Besson, it’s best to turn off your brain and just enjoy the guns and explosions.

Drug dealer movies split onto two rough camps: the violent ‘it’ll all end in a rain of bullets’ type, and the ‘I only got into it for a laugh and I’m actually a really nice guy’ type. Scarface or Blow. No prizes for guessing which category Mr Nice falls into. This is the unlikely story of overachieving Welsh hash smuggler Howard Marks who moved veritable truck-loads of the stuff from Pakistan and Afghanistan to American and Britain in the ‘70s via an IRA connection at Shannon airport. It’s quite sweet stuff but suffers from an overlong running time and unfocused storytelling.

Norwegian film A Somewhat Gentle

M O V I E S

The Weekend Sun has two double passes to give away to the lucky readers who can tell us who Margaret Thatcher is?

Enter online at www. sunlive.co.nz under the Competitions section.

Entries must be received by January 9.

Man probably wouldn’t have been released here had not Stellan Skarsgard become Hollywood’s supporting European de jour in everything from Pirates of the Caribbean to Thor. But it means we get to see this deadpan black comedy wherein Skarsgard plays a taciturn crim just released after 12 years in jail and forced to cope with the demands of life and his former gang

mates. He’s naive and subtle in a performance that (like the film) has garnered several awards. It’s as if Jean Reno’s character from Leon was directed by Aki Kuraskmaki.

In French film The Big Picture Paul is young, rich and handsome, with

With Rialto

The Iron Lady Tells the story of a woman who smashed through the barriers of gender and class to be heard in a male-dominated world.

The story concerns power and the price that is paid for power and is a surprising and insightful portrait of an extraordinary and complex woman.

Meryl Streep plays former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, dubbed ‘The Iron Lady’, in this bio-pic that tells Thatcher’s story via flashback – including the lead-up to Britain’s controversial involvement in the Falklands War. Jim Broadbent stars as Thatcher’s husband Dennis.

The Iron Lady is showing at Rialto Tauranga from December 26

hears voices in his head when he rides the Metro – are they real or is he going crazy? Who is the mysterious girl from the all-pervading shampoo commercials? Why do people keep calling him Stefan?

Presented in near monochrome, the strange animation style is perfectly suited for the Kafkaesque story of paranoia and quiet desperation. Actually, maybe it’s more Phillip K Dick than Kafka.

Kind of hard to classify, but it’s very cool stuff.

with

Fantastic Not bad at all Dreadful

Damn fi ne Dubious

Thanks to Video Ezy Brookfield for the DVDs

a high-flying job and two lovely kids, though he always wanted to be a photographer. But he’s trying to hold his marriage together and thinks his wife is having an affair (the tip-off is a bottle of Cloudy Bay!). Then, after an accidental death Paul decides to hide the crime and disappear.

Can he find the life he once dreamed of?

It ain’t – in case you couldn’t guess – easy.

This is a classily made film, but after moves towards thriller territory the story wanders and fails frustratingly to find an ending.

Ad the extended version of the Millennium Trilogy – Girl With The Dragon Tattoo et al – are out on DVD and blu-ray.

These are the three stories in their original TV format before they were cut down to make the cinema-released films. The central part has an extra hour added, the others about half an hour each. This certainly deepens the background of characters and creates a more immersive experience, but ironically, also serves to make them even less like films and more like TV – which, of course, they were.

FARMERS MARKET EVERY SUNDAY

9.00am to 1.00pm | Rain or Shine

PHOENIX CAR PARK

DOWNTOWN THE MOUNT

ENQUIRIES PHONE (07) 575 9911

The Weekend Sun

trades & services

R

GroutPro

.co.nz

40

tile & grout restoration specialists

CURTAIN CLEAN

AAA

MASTER

PAINTERS TAURANGA

Comitted to all your

needs.

EXTERIOR HOUSE WASHING AAA

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The Weekend Sun

trades & services

cars wanted

0800 382 828 ree ech

NZ

for sale

mobility Visit us.

OPEN: Monday-FridayÊ8.00am-5.30pmÊÊÊ SaturdayÊ9.00am-5.00pm

Visit us.

OPEN: Monday-FridayÊ8.00am-5.30pmÊÊÊ SaturdayÊ9.00am-5.00pm

116 Hewletts Road, Mount Maunganui.

116 Hewletts Road, Mount Maunganui.

Tel:Ê07Ê578Ê6017

Keeping Kiwis Independant

Tel:Ê07Ê578Ê6017

www.farmerautovillage.co.nz www.farmerautovillage.co.nz

horse treks

computer services

TER NEED COMPU

REPAIRS?

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The Weekend Sun

deceased adult entertainment

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

MOSAIC WAREHOUSE want to decorate your home & garden, make gifts for family & friends.

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, all your mosaic supplies in one shop. Huge selection available.

Making mosaics is easy & so much fun. Give it a go, you’ll love it. Unit 29, 23 Tukorako Drive, Mount (off Hull Rd) Tues to Sat 10am2pm eftpos Ph 572 3866 www.mosaicwarehouse.co.nz

VIRUS & SPYWARE REMOVAL Upgrades, servicing and repairs Free call out and quotation New power supply $70 fitted Motherboards From $100 fitted.

All work has 12 month warranty.

Laptops from $300, Desktops from $125. Wanted - faulty pc & laptops. Call Crystal Computing Tel: 07 579 5860 or 021 156 0055

art & craft

funeral directors

TO OUR WONDERFUL clients, thanks for another great year.

We wish you all a safe and happy Christmas & New Year. We will be closed Stat Holidays. Open between Xmas & New Year 10am-1pm. Then back to our normal 10am-4pm Tues-Sat. Lynn & Steve, Clay Art Studio & Leadlight Expressions, Historic Village, 17th Ave 571 3726

bible digest

“WHEN THEY CALL on me, I will answer, I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue them and honour them.” Psalms 91:15

entertainment

EXTREME FUN at paintball extreme – Indoor Paintball and Paintball Lasertag, Open 7days 9am til late. Baypark Pavillion 3, Truman Road, Mount Maunganui ph: 07 544 7987 www.paintballextreme.co.nz FUN ADVENTURE for all ages!

Rotorua duck Tours provide a great introduction to Rotorua, it’s history, and it’s people. Ph 07-345-6522 or see our advert in the Sun Fun pages.

PAT A LION cub today!! Paradise Valley Springs - Rotorua’s must see NZ wildlife park & trout springs!

Ph 07-348-9667 or see our advert in the Sun Fun pages.

house for sale

They say goodbye is the hardest word.

So to help you with your goodbyes, we’d like to say ‘hello’.

flatmates wanted

FLATMATE WANTED Welcome Bay, $80 wk inc power.

027 368 6792 or 544 3274

for sale

1997 DAEWOO CIELO, Red, excellent engine. No warrant due to rust on two doors, no rego, as is where is, $800 Ph 926988 1999 TOYOTA CAMRY GLX. 3L V6. Alloys, airbags, leather, air, all electrics. Serviced since new.

Excel con, good towing vehicle.

Offers under $4,900 considered.

07 574 9324 or 027 391 6321 CONCRETE SLEEPERS everlasting and realistic, from $9.00 each. Village Stone, 53 Hull Rd. Mt Maunganui.

Ph 575 4887 GOLF TRUNDLER, Powa kaddy with removable seat, near new battery, complete with charger. $370 ono. Ph 574 3439 HYUNDAI 2005 for Sale $9500 ono 137000 kms, silver, tiptronic, only two owners in NZ, wof & rego, great family car. Ph 027 5526283 or 07 5526283 or email tmc@xtra.co.nz INDULGENT, NUTRIENT RICH, body nurturing – Antipodes – buy any two products & get a third FREE. Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa. 0800 833 333 INIKA COSMETICS - Organic and Mineral Makeup – now with a face in a box – incredible value – all you need to start. Value $208 for only $119. Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa. 0800 833 333

Because we’ve been around for over 100 years, many Bay of Plenty families already know us. Generations have relied on us to bring family and friends together, to celebrate lives, to share treasured memories and to care for recently departed loved ones.

OVEN UNIT includes Stainless Panasonic Microwave and Fisher & Paykel oven, approx 10 years old, excellent condition, plus range hood. $450 ono on the lot.

Phone Claire 0274 827200.

Caring. Locally. Since 1909.

Chris Andrews & David McMahon Registered Funeral Directors

578 4009 enquiry@jonesandco.co.nz www.jonesandco.co.nz

PAVERS Factory seconds, half price. 53 Hull Rd Mt Maunganui. Ph 575 4887

Simon Bridges MP FOR TAURANGA I wish you a Merry Christmas.

My office will be closed for the Christmas break at noon on Wednesday 21 December 2011 and will reopen on Monday 16 January 2012.

POSTAL PO

Box 581, Tauranga 3140 07 579 9016 FAX 07 579 9669 EMAIL taurangamp@parliament.govt.nz PHONE

www.national.org.nz

2012 PRODUCT CATALOG

public notices

www.simonbridges.co.nz

computers

$$$$ MONEY for Spring.

Corporate Angels Escort Agency.

Ladies and Gay Males welcome for our extremely busy season.

Apply in confidence to Allan 021 606 180

gardening

GARDEN TIDY UPS for Christmas, qualified professionals, reasonable rates. Phone Carolyn or Alan 579 4984 or 022 0697 033

health & beauty

DIABETIC CHRISTMAS GIFT trays – delicious selection nuts and carob. Non diabetic also available. Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa. 0800 833 333 GUARD YOUR PROSTATE Microgenics Protech – supports health of your prostate gland.

Save $10. Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa. 0800 833 333 HEALTH STARTS IN THE GUT! Primadophillus Reuteri provides Lactobaccillus Reuteri a strain of probiotic with extra power. Save on 30’s & 90’s. Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa.

0800 833 333 LOSE WEIGHT FEEL GREAT! Join a ‘New Look’ clinic in your area. Healthy eating with real food. Ph Bernice NOW 576 4848 NATURAL NEW ZEALAND Health Products. Something for everyone. NZ Chartered Natural Therapies and Natural Medicine Practitioners. Opposite BP Te Puke. Ph 573 5533 www.naturaltherapiesltd.co.nz and www.kiwikitz.com SHUZI – THE HI-TECH solution for arthritis, insomnia, peripheral neuropathy and much more.

From sports bands to high fashion jewellery. Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa. 0800 833 333 SMOOTH WRINKLES, rejuvenate skin, repair elasticity - Pro-Col Collagen a pure, hydrolysed triple matrix bovine collagen. Buy one get one half price. Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa.

0800 833 333 SVETOL the decaffeinated green coffee bean extract for weight loss. Support metabolism and weight management – save $10 off 2 mth pack. Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa.

0800 833 333

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The Weekend Sun

karaoke hire health & beauty

THE LESLIE CLINIC – Massage Therapy with a difference, specialising in developing individual treatment programmes.

Call to book today 0274158254 www.theleslieclinic.co.nz TIRED OF YOYO DIETING. Celebrity Slim – the amazing diet system. Value pack – normal value over $100. 14 shakes, 2 breakfast bars, 2 replacement bars, 5 snack bars. Now $79.90. Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa.

0800 833 333

house for sale

A PERFECT 3 bedroom home, warm and dry for winter with fireplace and full insulation.

Absolutely gorgeous outlook and cool breezes for Summer!

Fantastic family home or for first home buyers - ideal location in Brookfield. Fully fenced on a 716m2 section situated within easy walking distance to Brookfield shops, Schools, PreSchools & parks. Separate single garage with power. Located in a quiet cul-de sac in a great neighbourhood, this home is a must see to see the potential.

View some photos on TradeMe #405 700 583 or phone Daphne 027 552 6283 today! Price Slashed to Sell was $330 now only $295,000 FANTASTIC LIFESTYLE BLOCK AT PIKOWAI Within easy commuting to Tauranga, Te Puke and Whakatane this 4 bedroom brick home is in paradise!

Beautiful sea and rural views 6 acres grazing land, horse pens, heaps of shedding, butchery and chiller for own use single garage with sleepout/ office big games room or can be converted to extra double garage, chook house, drenching race for the cattle. 11.5 x 4.5 metre in ground swimming pool which is fully decked and fenced. This is a beautiful home and comes with a share in the community woolshed, tennis courts and cattle yards.

Own water scheme. Fantastic community to belong to - be in quick! Price of house has been slashed! to $550,000 - urgent sale.

Ph 027 281 7427 today.

lifestyle coaching

CAREER RESTRUCTURING? Creating opportunity from Change. Ph Chris at Balanced Success Coaching 027 548 2548 chris@balancedsuccess.co.nz www.balancedsuccess.co.nz

mobility

MOBILITY SCOOTERS & more.

Visit our showroom, 29 Burrows St, Tauranga, ph 578 1213. MES “Supporting your Independence” for 12+yrs.

personal

HAVE A BOOMING CHRISTMAS – Pro- erex Booster Plus – buy one get one free – better sex naturally. Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa.

0800 833 333

pets

DOGGY DAY CARE – fun and socialisation for your canine friend. Ph 5766101. www.preciouspaws.co.nz PET SITTING - Book now for Christmas. Pet care and feeding in your home by qualified and experienced Vet Nurses and Pet Sitters. Ph 5766101. www.preciouspaws.co.nz

removal

FREE REMOVAL unwanted steel, ovens, dishwashers, washing machines, fridge/ freezers, car batteries, etc.Phone Breno 021 608 129 Or 544 6560

to let

A FANTASTIC 3 bedroom home is available for Rent.

Great neighbours, great cul-de-sac in Brookfield within minutes of schools, preschools, park, shops, supermarket etc. Fully fenced with single powered garage. Only $350pw ph or text Kathy on 027 211 9193 today!

PILLANS POINT, 3 Bedroom house, $290 per week, ph 579 0119 or 021 552 554

trades & services

ALLAN HOLMES FOR ALL your carpentry & Handyman jobs around the home. Big or Small.

Free quotes. Reasonable rates.

Call 021 992 678 or after hours on 07 576 3543 BAY PAINTERS INC for all your painting needs. Interior and Exterior.

Colour consults available. Call Lewis FREE on 213 0784 or 021 555 013 BUILDER 30 YEARS experience in BOP. Specialised in outdoor areas, decks, pergolas, retaining walls, fences etc. Reasonable rates.

Free quotes. Ph Keith today on 578 6869 or 021 377 387 BUILDER AVAILABLE NOW New homes, renovations, bricklaying, quality rates, quality work. No job too big or small. Call me now for a quote. DK Builders - Dieter 021 474 299 or 574 2139 a/h EARTHWORKS Truck / Digger hire, Tree removal, Farmwork.

Opening special only $80+GST per hour. No job too big or small.

Call Carl at Addison Civil today 0274 636 560 ELECTRICIAN A professional and affordable registered electrician.

New builds, alterations, repairs.

Ph Steve 5780555, 027 8486042 ELECTRICIAN Able to do all jobs. Alarms, New Houses and renovations. Registered.

Quality service at great price.

Phone Tomas, Check Electrical 07 544 6448 or 027 566 7872

trades & services

ELECTRICIAN available for all services. Mitsubishi air conditioner supplied and installed for very competitive rates. Ph 027 5473 831 or a/h on 543 0062 GORSE SPRAYING do you have a gorse problem?

Ph today for a FREE quote for all gorse control. Scott 0274 624 769 GUTTERING CLEAN and repairs, moss removal.

Experienced Certified Roofer.

Free quotes. Ph Peter now 542 4291 or 0274 367 740 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. Contact Rob at Magic Seal 543 4940 NEED YOUR FLOORS SHINING B4 XMAS 5yr warranty, Green certified, Cork, laminate, Parquet, Tiles, Wood, Vinyl. Call now 0800SHINYFLOORS [ 0800744693] OTUMOETAI CYCLES & MOWERS – Huge range of Mowers and garden equipment, Biycles. Specialising in all Mower, Chainsaw, Weedeater and Bike Repairs. 158 Cambridge Road, Tauranga. Ph 07 571 5068 PAINTER / A1 DECORATOR available. All interior and exterior work. Prompt, reliable, excellent references. Ph Paul 576 4793, 027 689 6252 PAINTER / DECORATOR Interior & 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 544 6495 or 021 575 307 PLUMBING WORKS no job too big or small, blocked drains, plumbing, spouting & roof repairs.

Ph 571 5558

travel & tours

A HOLIDAY OR DAY-OUT. Every week. Small Group Tours. Door to Door Hinterland Tours Ph: Kae & Rick 07 575 8118 CURTISY TOURS TRAVEL Club Coming up Day Trips: Matata/Pongakawa, Wildlife Sanctuary Franklin, Whakatane Early Xmas lunch. Away Trip: 23-27th Dec Northland and more phone 543 9205

wanted

FAMOUS FOR FUN! Book with The Touring Company this summer - see our ad for more info. Ph 07 5770057 JAPAN CULTURAL TOUR Join Lets Homestay for the 50th Anniversary of the Cherry Blossom festival in Hitachi City, Japan. Call Stuart on 5433220 also see www.letshomestay.com/ hitachi SCOTTSDALE SENIOR TOURS, fully escorted owner/operated since 1978. Ph free for colour brochure today 0800 664 414. Also see www.scottsdaletours.co.nz

work wanted

ANYTHING CONSIDERED looking for a summer job for the holidays before I go back to my study. I am a confident, energetic 24yr old and am willing to consider anything.

Please Ph or Text Jeremy on 027 781 5549

to rent

transport

DRIVING MISS DAISY, need to get to an appointment or want an outing? But don’t drive? Call us for safe friendly, and reliable service.

Discount offered to Total Mobility card holders. Phone Jackie from Driving Miss Daisy, 552 6614

adult entertainment

tours & travel

Famous For Fun!

trades & services

RESPOUT NOW! Call Ageless Continuous Spouting. Made to measure costs less than you think. For a prompt quote.

Ph 574 0496 RETAINING WALL SPECIALIST Pole walls, crib walls, tilt slab concrete walls.

Excavation and levelling. The best in the business. Ph Mike 0274 942 966 a/h 576 0941 ROOFING & SPOUTING Metal fascia, gutter and rainwater systems. Long run corrugate.

Maintenance, repairs or replacement. Free no obligation quotes. PROFIX 0274 965 375 profixltd@xtra.co.nz ROOFING New roofs, re-roofs, spouting & repairs. Free quotes.

Ph Chris 027 276 6348 or 572 3237 ROOF REPAIRS metal or onduline, gutters & down pipes, clean or replacement, chimney repairs. Certified Roofer over 30yrs experience Free quote. Ph Peter 542 4291 or 0274 367 740 ROTARY HOEING Lawn preparation & sowing. Loader & blade work. Tractor mowing.

Quality work & friendly service.

Mini Tractor Service. Ph Murray 543 4538 or 027 200 7480 STORAGE Secure yard.

Caravan, car, boat etc. Cheap.

Bethlehem. 576 4245 STUMPINATOR STUMP Grinding free quotes & prompt service.

Narrow machine to access rear yards. Ph 576 4245 or 0220 764 245 TAURANGA TANDEM SKYDIVING Best Buzz in the Bay, Gift Vouchers. Ph 576 7990 TREE FELLING, PRUNING & Removal/chipping. No job to big or small. Phone Scott 0274 624 769

health & beauty

situations vacant $8m0ins 20

44

The Weekend Sun

Christmas Eve a time to sing When there’s only one more sleep before Christmas, what will you be up to?

Hopefully food is prepared, presents wrapped and the house is as ready as it’s going to be.

Why not take a pause on Christmas Eve and sing carols at Wesley Methodist Church, 13th Avenue under the Christmas lights?

This is an opportunity to be nourished in a different way, to wonder and to remember God’s gift of a baby so long ago in Bethlehem.

Carols at Wesley starts at 8.15pm, finishing earlier for the benefit of those with young children. If it is wet, we will be under cover in the church.

Bring a rug (the church supplies candles and a small treat) and make Carols at Wesley part of your Christmas Eve celebration.

Not always a baby at Christmas Your

Presbyterian Churches

At this time of the year our thoughts are drawn to Jesus and we seem to get so focused on Jesus the baby, that we forget that Jesus became a man.

Christmas is special, because we all love babies and they bring something out in us like

nothing else can.

I have often looked at a baby and said to myself, “I wonder what he or she will grow to be”.

One lady said to me once; “I’ve got a kid Tom and either he will grow up to be another Billy Graham or another Al

Capone”.

On Sunday we will gaze at the manger scene and remember the baby, but, don’t let us become so focused on the little dimpled face that we forget the man hanging on a cross.

By Pastor Tom Frew

45

The Weekend Sun

A selection of some local breaking stories featured this week on...

4th Ave death: murder charge laid

Jesus is the reason At this time of year, sometimes referred to as the ‘silly season’.

By Peter Whitcombe

There is often an attempt to bring some relevance and some sanity to the ‘busyness’ of it all, by suggesting that ‘Jesus is the reason for the season’.

Frankly, that’s misleading on two counts. Firstly, Jesus is not at all the reason for much of what occurs in this season. Increasingly, children are growing up without knowing the reason behind what much of the world celebrates in this festive season. Children may sing an occasional Christmas carol and see some imagery relating to the birth of Jesus, but the meaning of (or the reason for) the season is lost behind everything else that occurs in this time – the presents and a fictional character standing in place of a real saviour. Increasingly, this season is a time for all kinds of excesses that have nothing to do with Jesus. To suggest that ‘Jesus is the reason for the season’ may be well-meaning, but it is clearly misleading.

Secondly, Jesus is the reason – full stop. He is the way, He is the truth, He is the life. He alone is our hope, our peace and our joy. Scripture declares in 2 Corinthians 1:20 that “all the promises of God find their Yes in Him”. Acts 17:28 says that “In Him we live and move and have our being”. The New Testament epistles make in clear that it is only “in Christ” that we can walk in a restored relationship with God, free from sin and free from God’s judgment on sin. Salvation is through grace alone, by faith alone, in Christ alone. Our hope in the nations is that Jesus is coming again to establish His throne and His kingdom in the nations. He is the reason.

Our prayer at Jesus First is that you will find Jesus in the midst of this season. You are welcome to come and worship Jesus with us. He is the reason.

Tauranga man Mark Rangiwhaiao is facing a murder charge for the death of Colin Anthony Bidios – the man who was found dead on 4th Avenue on Wednesday, December 7.

The accused appeared in the Tauranga District Court on Tuesday where a charge of common assault he was facing was withdrawn and a charge of murder was laid.

Judge Peter Rollo remanded Rangiwhaiao in custody after no plea was entered.

He is next due in court on January 10.

Police are making good progress into the investigation, but still wish to speak with anyone who was in the 4th Avenue area between 6pm and 10pm on Tuesday, December 6.

Treaty issues surfacing

City councillors are expressing unease about the treaty negotiations process affecting the Western BOP iwi. Tauranga Moana iwi are in the final stages of negotiating multi-million dollar Treaty of Waitangi claims, with the settlements to involve a mix of cash, property and shared governance rights.

Ngati Ranginui, Ngai Te Rangi, Ngati Pukenga and Nga Potiki will each have separate settlements, but they have also formed a collective to press for co-governance and co-management of natural resources such as the harbour, coast and rivers.

Mayor Stuart Crosby says because the negotiations will affect public assets, the public should be involved at the beginning of the process and he is uncomfortable with negotiations being kept private.

The negotiations over Treaty of Waitangi settlements are between the Crown represented by the Office of Treaty Settlements, and the involved iwi.

School milk scheme not before 2013

Tauranga children could benefit from Fonterra’s Milk for Schools programme from 2013, with the scheme first being trialled in Northland in 2012.

Fonterra CEO Theo Spierings says the programme is part of their plan to

SunLive Community Highlights

Picture of the Week: Penguins released at Mount Maunganui by Daniel Hines.

Email your photos to newsroom@thesun.co.nz Comment of the Week: By user oniebone about the debut single of Bay of Plenty singer Porina – listen to the track on SunLive: “Her voice is amazing, get behind her Tauranga, she’s a class act and deserves our unconditional tautoko.”

Not the News of the Week: “Tributes have yet to flood in from across the world following the death yesterday of North Korea’s longtime dictator Kim Jong-Il. Prime Minister John Key was among

make milk more affordable and more available for New Zealanders.

To test logistics of the Fonterra Milk for Schools programme, the cooperative is trialling it in Northland primary schools, covering 110 schools and 14,000 children, beginning during the first term of 2012.

Calm Christmas forecast

The New Zealand MetService is predicting Tauranga to have a sunny and warm Christmas.

At this stage, the forecast is for a maximum temperature of 22C, light winds and a minimum temperature of 14C. Calm conditions similar to these are forecast for much of the country.

Police seek Hohua

Police are looking for 33-year-old Te Maari Tamakaimoana Hohua, and say he is considered violent and should not be approached.

Police have a warrant for his arrest in relation to a serious assault.

He has links to Whakatane and Hastings.

People with information about his whereabouts are asked to contact their local police station or the independent Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111. many world leaders regretting the extra expense of a Christmas card at a time of economic hardship, having sent them all out last week.”

Read this Not the News in full at www.sunlive.co.nz Blog of the Week: Art blogger Pete Morris writes about Dilip Datta’s world view in paint. Read it at www.sunlive.co.nz What is the most cliched new year's resolution?

Stop smoking

10%

Lose weight

50%

Spend more time with family

10%

Save money

20%

Drink less

10%

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Join for free and get stories, photos and video sent to you as the news breaks.

www.sunlive.co.nz

Exalt God • Worship Jesus TAURANGA PRIMARY SCHOOL HALL, 31 Fifth Ave Christmas Day: 10-11am Worship & Communion Service January 1st: 10am Worship & Communion Service Speaker: David Otway Phone: 579 2729 www.jesusfirst.org.nz

Live & Serve in the Power of the Holy Spirit

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