Yes, we CAN help! es, w h lp!
Rotary clubs across New Zealand have launched ‘Cans for a Cause’ – an ambitious nationwide drive to collect one million cans of food for local foodbanks throughout the month of June
With more than 20% of Kiwis now relying on food assistance, and foodbanks under pressure, Rotary’s grassroots campaign is a
powerful response to the growing cost-ofliving crisis
In Tauranga, Rotary has placed collection boxes at Woolworths supermarkets, encouraging shoppers to donate nonperishable items like canned fish, baked beans, vegetables, and soups
Several fellow Rotary clubs are hosting
collection events around the city, including at Pāpāmoa Plaza, Bethlehem and Fraser Cove
Collections have already been held in Katikati and Otūmoetai
“Many families across New Zealand are struggling to put food on the table for their whānau and urgently need support, ” said Kathy Webb of the Rotary Club of Tauranga
“We are committed to collecting one million cans of food to support local foodbanks in our communities Every can counts ” To learn more or donate, visit page 5
Sunrise, who is pictured (on right) with fellow Rotarian and Tauranga Community Foodbank chair Simon Beaton
Photo / Brydie Thompson
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Eulogy to a lamb chop
What has Donald J Trump got in common with “Stew” the wether sheep whose pronoun is “it”? Well, lore has it both Trump and Stew are draft dodgers.
Fancy that!
Trump dodged the draft when he was dubiously diagnosed with bone spurs, which medically exempted him from the Vietnam War “Stew” the castrated wether, dodged the draft which would have led to a different sort of meat works. A couple of lifestylers visiting the saleyards fixed on his wide-boy like charm, his long eye lashes and sculpted, sturdy haunches, paid $26 for
him, and took him to his forever home as an organic lawn mower
Draft dodger Trump acceded to the Oval Office. Draft dodger Stew, so named because that was his intended end, went to a nice shady possie under a tree where he got “pissed” every day from eating over-ripe, fermented windfall apples. And getting fat. All the time his siblings were being martyred at the abattoir in the interests of GDP But this is no place for sentiment.
Purple or blue?
Because I’ve just read a cry for help and understanding from sheep farmers ‘SOS’ shouted the headline. ‘Save Our Sheep –farmers sound the alarm’. What are we to believe? I thought farmers were enjoying what Roman poet Horace would call a “ purpureus pannus ” – a purple patch. Strong prices for red meat and the like. But it might be more of a blue patch, the colour of angst and worry
Because the newspaper yarn said since 2007 the national flock has shrunk 40% – we lose a million sheep a year Really? Where have they all gone? Metamorphosed into pine trees apparently Or perhaps, like Stew, they’ve wandered off to forever homes Perhaps they got wind being “harvested” didn’t mean picking peaches and apricots in a summer orchard, and that a Sunday outing on a stock truck was a one-way deal that inevitably ended badly and bloodily
they were wonderful days of plenty We would eat sheep, shear sheep and wear sheep with nationwide abandon. We were awash in mint sauce, clips of crossbred and feelings of wellbeing.
Pongy school socks
But now Federated Farmers is warning if the decline in sheep numbers continues on the current trajectory, there’ll be no sheep left in New Zealand in 20 years What? They’re part of our national identity – as Kiwi as marching girls and meringues
Baffling stuff for those of us who’ve never owned a Viyella shirt or RM Williams, and whose closest connection with the land is winning Powerball so we can afford to celebrate with lamb shanks and a new merino sweater.
I recall the day when we boasted 66 million sheep in NZ – 22 for every man, woman and child. Don’t know where in the recesses I plucked that fact from But
And even those of us who don’t own Red Bands or John Deeres, are hearing you sheep farmers, because it impacts us all.
This, now, is the moment for sentiment because we were raised on legs of lamb, loin chops and lamb’s fry I had my cabled ming blue sweater knitted one loving purl at a time by a mother using
all New Zealand wool, my toxically pongy school socks were darned with New Zealand wool and I padded around a warm family home laid with 100% New Zealand wool, premium Axminster Life was good, the country was good
That was the golden age of the 1950s and 1960s when a NZ leg of lamb cost between 10 bob and a pound – between $5 and $10 in current moolah –depending on lots of variables Then the head chef would do her loaves and fishes act with the leg of lamb Family of six for a roast Sunday, cold lamb salad Monday, the bone stripped bare for Shepherd’s Pie Tuesday, a sandwich for school in between and the dog got two days gnawing out of the bone. Good value in a leg of lamb
Overdosed on ‘lerv’
But things can change in 60 years
Nowadays a whole NZ lamb leg, bone in, grass fed, 2.5kg, is $21.95 a kilogram – so about $50-plus for the leg.
Someone on the living wage would have to toil for a couple of hours to buy one. There are cheaper cuts – fatty, scraggy neck chops that camouflaged in a casserole. Now four for about $16 – they’re a treat And four ropy shoulder chops for $17 – slow cook them for a week to render them edible. It’s difficult to balance your pride and loyalty to the sheep industry, with your budget Finally, an erotic epilogue. One evening the lifestylers tethered Stew to a trampoline in the backyard and by morning he’d dragged it out down the drive and onto the road Stew didn’t have “bollocks” but he had balls.
He was sent to end his days up the road in a paddock with a whole lot of ewes. Don’t know if his emasculation prevented him from fully enjoying his new circumstances, but he died three days later. With a smile on his face. Perhaps he blew a “foo foo valve” from excessive activity, perhaps he over-dosed on “lerv”.
Ne layout to simplif na igation
Further changes to a “confusing” road layout in Tauriko aim to make navigation simpler for road users, Tauranga City Council says
Lane closures and lane delineators have been in place since May 26 as part of Taurikura Drive upgrade works The works, taking place between the SH36 roundabout and Whiore Ave, will see two new signalised intersections, a new pedestrian crossing and new walking and cycling options added to Taurikura Drive
The council’s contractors had originally placed traffic dividers around the roundabout intersecting Taurikura Drive, Takitimu Drive/ State Highway 36 and Lakes Boulevard SunLive reported last week that some drivers had found the layout confusing, with dividers taking some exits down from two lanes to one and restricting lane changes “It confused everyone and people were stopping in the middle of the roundabout Just absolute chaos,” said one motorist.
A worker in the area said customers were coming into her workplace complaining about the layout and how they didn’t understand when to change lanes until it was too late
In a statement on Wednesday, Tauranga City Council head of transport Mike Seabourne said the roundabout had been monitored since the changes were introduced “The previous layout required drivers to transition lanes within the
roundabout to access Taurikura Drive, which will no longer be needed,” said Seabourne
“The new layout will make the roundabout simpler to navigate, especially for drivers wanting to access Taurikura Drive and the Tauranga Crossing shopping centre ”
Seabourne said council has come up with a new plan and alterations would be made overnight Thursday “We’ve seen some challenges associated with the previous traffic management set-up and have heard from our community, so we ’ re changing the layout of lane closures on the roundabout
“The new traffic management measures should provide an easier layout for drivers to follow, while still supporting our accelerated programme of works to upgrade Taurikura Drive ”
The new road layout will involve closing the right-hand lane on SH36 from the Takitimu roundabout to the SH36/Taurikura Drive
roundabout This was in addition to closing some of the right-hand lane on the roundabout and the right-hand lane on Lakes Boulevard at the approach to the roundabout
“A lower speed limit will still apply within the area under the traffic management layout change ”
Seabourne said council was confident these changes would make a positive impact “We will continue to monitor the site closely as the change is implemented ”
For more information, visit: tauranga govt nz/ taurikura-drive Ayla Yeoman
Tauranga City Council is in the process of reviewing how it manages dogs and animals in the city and wants some early feedback from residents
The review of council’s Dog Management Policy and Bylaw, and Keeping of Animals Bylaw is to check they are working as intended Council is currently seeking early
feedback on protecting wildlife and natural habitats from dogs; dog management in public places; and the keeping of animals in Tauranga It invites residents to have their say on a variety of issues via a survey, which is now live at tauranga govt nz/animalrules
The survey is open until 5pm, Monday, June 30
The original layout changes to the Tauriko roundabout caused havoc, according to some motorists.
Photo / Ayla Yeoman
Heritage resource
A new multi-media education resource highlighting the unique heritage features of Tauranga’s Ōtūmoetai Pā has been launched
The learning module can be found on the LEARNZ website and features video interviews and a wealth of information for those who have an interest in the history of Ōtūmoetai Pā and its surrounding area
It also covers the role of Heritage NZ Pouhere Taonga with archaeology
The series of videos include interviews with kaumātua Koro Des Tata (Ngāi Tamarāwaho), kaitiaki Barry Ngatoko (Ngāi Tamarāwaho) and Dean Flavell, the pouarahi for the Tauranga Heritage Collection. Together they look after the archaeological collection, including taonga from excavations at Ōtūmoetai and wider Tauranga Moana.
BOP man wins ‘Alone: Australia’
After 76 days in the brutal Tasmanian wilderness, Eastern Bay of Plenty trapper Shay Williamson is now AUS$250,000 (NZ$270,000) richer, claiming the coveted title of being the first Kiwi to win ‘Alone: Australia’. Reflecting on his journey, Williamson revealed what kept him motivated when the going got tough Williamson saidhe had two choices when dealing with thoughts of being away from his family during the ultimate solo survival challenge: try and block them out completely or use them as motivation to continue. He did the latter, and had come back to them with the cash prize and a lot of stories to tell after winning season three of ‘Alone: Australia’.
Mini arts grants
Winter in the Bay of Plenty will be more vibrant after 11 creative projects received funding in a partnership between TECT and Creative Bay of Plenty
The Western Bay Mini Arts Grants are up to $2000 for creative or cultural projects that engage the community, and are open to all. Two quick-fire rounds were delivered in April and May, resulting in a range of new initiatives aking place between now and September Annie Hill from Creative Bay of Plenty said: “This year we have funded several murals in our communities, including one at Huria Rugby Club, three in Ohauiti, and an artwork for Te Puke Primary School”.
Changes to garden waste charge
Tauranga City Council has changed how it charges for waste at Te Maunga Transfer Station to reduce wait times. If people only have garden waste inside their vehicles –excluding trailers – they pay a set charge of $17 on entering. “This replaces the previous system where vehicles were weighed on entry and exit, and the difference in weight was charged,” said council. If people have general waste and garden waste, there are two options. They can weigh their vehicle on entry and exit and pay a general waste rate for the entire load – there’s a minimum charge $29.50 up to 60kg. Or they can weigh in on entry, unload general rubbish and pay for it on the way out, then re-enter with their garden waste and pay the $17 set chargge.
Speedway
Proposal to extend speedway lease
The community is being asked if speedway should stay at Mercury
Baypark Stadium as the Tauranga City Council decides whether to extend the club’s lease.
Baypark Speedway has called the Mount Maunganui stadium home since it was built in 2001 and has a lease to operate there until 2029.
The council is considering a proposal that would extend speedway operations until 2039.
The proposal would involve Speedway Racing Ltd buying the north stand of 15,600 seats for $1 and being responsible for its maintenance, while leasing the land from the council through the facilities arm Bay Venues.
The council would retain ownership of the land and the north stand would be returned to the council at the end of the lease in 2039 for $1.
Baypark Speedway promoter Melissa Webb said the proposal was its preferred option for running speedway in Tauranga.
If the agreement was approved, Baypark Speedway would bring more events to Tauranga that would not be limited to just speedway, said Webb “This will be a positive for the city”
Speedway would prefer a longer lease than 2039 because of the investment
it would make, she said. “We intend on investing a considerable amount of money into improvements at the stadium, and we need the security and longevity for our investment ”
Ratepayers to have say
Webb said it was understandable the council wanted Tauranga ratepayers to have their say on the proposal
Councillor Kevin Schuler said before decisions about the proposal were made, the council wanted to understand the community’s views.
“This consultation is about testing the community’s support for the proposal and weighing up what Mercury Baypark Stadium’s future should look like for the next decade.”
The proposal provided a way for speedway to continue operating without placing immediate costs on ratepayers, he said. “If there’s not strong community support for this approach, we’ll explore alternative options for the site beyond 2029.”
Schuler said the north stand was in poor condition and required investment to remain operational. It was used almost exclusively for speedway events, around 15 times a year “If speedway continues until 2039, it would be under new arrangements that shift the immediate cost and responsibility for maintaining
the stand to Speedway Racing. If not, there are potential opportunities to reimagine the site for future recreational or commercial uses that could serve the wider community from 2029.” Speedway was at risk of being displaced in 2022 when the Commission governing the council had plans to replace the stadium with a multi-use sporting precinct for outdoor netball, track and field athletics and gymnastics
Drop-in session
A protest was held and a ‘Hands Off Baypark Speedway’ campaign was launched.
There was also the threat of legal action if an agreement about speedway was not reached.
In September 2023, the plans were changed to keep the stadium and pits and allow speedway to retain its current lease until 2029.
Consultation on the speedway proposal closes at 5pm on June 23. Feedback can be given at: letstalk.tauranaga.govt.nz/ baypark
A drop-in session with councillors will be held at Mercury Baypark Arena Suites on June 14 from 10am to noon.
– LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air
One million cans for foodbanks
Throughout June, Rotary clubs across New Zealand are uniting to collect one million cans of food in support of local foodbanks.
The initiative, called ‘Cans for a Cause’, is a response to the growing need for food assistance amid the country ’ s worsening cost-of-living crisis.
“Many families across New Zealand are struggling to put food on the table for their whānau and urgently need support, ” said Kathy Webb of the Rotary Club of Tauranga Sunrise. “We are committed to collecting one million cans of food to support local food ban communities.”
The project is led by Rotary District across New Zealand, who are coordin this national Rotary food collection ca According to District 9930 Governor Dangerfield, more than 20% of New now rely on weekly food assistance. “Th need is being felt in our own commun foodbanks under significant and grow Through this campaign, Rotary clubs country are taking coordinated, grassr action to help relieve food poverty ”
and spaghetti, canned vegetables and fruit, soup, diced tomatoes, spreads, rice, pasta and cereals. Several fellow Rotary clubs have collection events scheduled across Tauranga. Today, Friday, June 13, Rotary Pāpāmoa will be at Pāpāmoa Plaza; on Saturday and Sunday, June 14-15 Rotary Tauranga Sunrise will be at Bethlehem Woolworths; on Tuesday and Wednesday, June 17-18 Rotary Te Papa will be at Fraser Cove Woolworths
“Every can counts, and you can help,” Webb said. “By contributing to ‘Cans for a Cause’, New Zealanders can help make a tangible difference in the lives of those experiencing food insecurity” For more information visit: rotary9930 org nks in our t Governors nating ampaign r Nick Zealanders This urgent nities, with wing pressure across the
The campaign aligns with Rotary International’s Area of Focus on Community Economic Development aiming to reduce poverty, bolster local support networks and empower communities.
How you CAN help
In the Tauranga area, Rotary-brande collection boxes have been placed in Woolworth’s supermarkets From June 9-16, members of the public are encouraged to purchase non-perishable food items while shopping and place them in the Rotary collection boxes outside selected supermarkets; or donate cash, which will be used to purchase high-need food items for local foodbanks.
Webb said the most needed items include canned fish, baked beans
Call me for your free, no obligation Market Appraisal
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Tauranga Community Foodbank chair Simon Beaton with fellow Rotary Club of Tauranga Sunrise Rotarian Kathy Webb.
Photo/Brydie Thompson
Rosalie Liddle Crawford d
Victoria to represent BOP in Beijjing g
After representing the Bay of Plenty at the Chinese Proficiency competition in Wellington on May 24, Tauranga Intermediate student Victoria Seymour, 12, is off to Beijing.
The competition was held at Victoria University’s Rutherford House, with the theme of Chinese joy and fun, spanning one day. “We were in and out, ” Seymour said At the competition, Seymour answered questions in Mandarin and then had to perform a special talent. She chose Chinese dance.
“I have always been a dancer. I have done that for more than 10 years. And so Chinese dance just kind of felt natural.”
Seymour said she had started learning Mandarin and dance in the last two years, but had also embraced exploring another culture: “I think it’s fascinating.”
While she had a step-grandmother and a Mandarin teacher for her language skills, she had to rely on YouTube videos to become proficient in dance. At the competition, the students were judged on creativity, fluency, pronunciation and several different categories, she said “I’m very keen to explore harder
a and more unique Chinese dances ” Seymour would like to see Tauranga embrace more Chinese culture, and having only three other students representing the Bay of Plenty was “ a bit disappointing”.
Lifetime opportunity
She was in a state of disbelief at her win and is very aware that she will not only represent the Bay of Plenty but also New Zealand in Beijing. “My mind’s kind of exploding right now ” No date has been set for the competition in
China, but she believes it will happen in the third term “It is a lifetime opportunity,” she said It will be an all-expenses-paid trip to China, with one caregiver given the chance to go, but Victoria hopes to be able to take both her parents S She said she will be in China for two weeks and hopes to visit the Great Wall and a few other tourist hotspots around the country.
Seymour is attempting to add Chinese calligraphy to her growing list of skills, but faced a unique challenge in mastering it: “I am left-handed So I smudge everything that I write ”
Tom Eley
Victoria Seymour, 12, won the Chinese Proficiency competition in Wellington. Photo / Tom Eley
As winter approaches, Pāpāmoa Community Constable Adrian Oldham is encouraging residents to keep a closer eye on their elderly or unwell neighbours – especially those living alone.
Constable Oldham’s call comes after a recent case where an elderly woman passed away in her home and went undiscovered for more than two weeks. Police were alerted when neighbours noticed they hadn’t seen her in some time. Officers were forced to enter through a toilet window and found the woman had died of natural causes
“Unfortunately, this isn’t the first time I’ve seen something like this,” said Oldham “Over my time in the police, I’ve been to dozens of similar cases. In Pāpāmoa alone, I can recall at least three or four.”
Stop and think
He mentioned the recent death in the Pāpāmoa Neighbourhood Support newsletter – not to alarm, but to prompt residents to think about how they can support one another “I just want people
to stop and think. Checking in with neighbours doesn’t have to be ‘in their face’,” said Oldham “It could be as simple as a wave through the window, noticing if mail is piling up, or if the curtains haven’t been drawn for a few days.”
Older people
He pointed out that while such deaths aren ’ t frequent, they are not uncommon either –particularly among older people, or individuals living with serious illness or mental health challenges
While Pāpāmoa beach is a long 16km stretch of eastern coastline beach from Mount Maunganui to the Kaituna River, the broader urban area of Pāpāmoa encompasses about 25 8km2, with more than 35,000 residents
“There are people in our community battling terminal illness or living alone with little support, ” said Oldham “Sometimes, they don’t get found until a family member visits much later”
Oldham referenced a high-profile overseas case involving actor Gene Hackman and his wife, noting how tragedies involving isolation can even affect well-known figures “Thankfully, we don’t have
“The reason Istilllove thisjobafter allthis time; is the interaction Ihave withthepublic”
those sorts of stories here – but it shows how easy it is for people to slip through the cracks.”
Speak openly
He suggests that residents speak openly with neighbours, especially if they know someone is unwell “You don’t have to be intrusive. Just let them know – ‘I understand you ’ re not well I’ll keep an eye out, just wave and if I see your curtains aren ’ t drawn or your paper is in your drive, I’ll just knock on the door, and you can tell me to get lost, but I just want to be a good neighbour
“Even if someone says they’re fine, I think deep down most people appreciate knowing someone is looking out for them.”
With winter here, Oldham encouraged people to consider
forming or joining a local Neighbourhood Support group
“Last month, I marked 46 years in the police,” he said “I could write a book about all I’ve seen and dealt with over that time The reason I still love this job after all this time; is the interaction I have with the public I love being your local Community Constable I enjoy getting out there and I do try my best to solve peoples’ issues ”
Oldham reminded residents that if they have serious concerns about a neighbour’s wellbeing, they can request a welfare check through the police – either online or by phone
“You don’t need to be in someone ’ s face, but if we all look out for each other a little more, we can help prevent these sad situations ”
Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Ailsa Scott, 82, is grateful for the visit from Pāpāmoa Community Constable Adrian Oldham. Photo / Brydie Thompson
Casting call for local dogs for musical
Calling all dog owners! Stage Right Trust is on the lookout for two star-studded pups to join the cast of ‘Legally Blonde The Musical’, set to hit the stage at Baycourt from July 26 to August 2, 2025.
Dir Toni Henders said they
two key roles: Bruiser Woods and Rufus
“Bruiser is Elle Woods’ iconic little ‘handbag’ dog – small, welltrained, and ideally able to follow commands,” Henderson said “It would be a bonus if the dog can ‘speak’ on command, but that’s not essential. Most importantly, Bruiser must be comfortable being picked up d ed.”
is the beloved bulldog of Paulette Buonufonte, the quirky beautician Elle befriends.
Henderson described Rufus as “ a bulldog or similarly sized dog with a gentle nature, good on a lead, and happy to be lifted when needed”.
Interested dog owners are invited to submit an expression of interest via email to: stagerighttrust@ gmail.com. Submissions should include a brief description of the dog, any tricks they can perform, and a recent photo
“Once we have a shortlist from the email submissions, we will hold auditions with the dogs alongside their human cast members – Bruiser with Morgan Kitching, who is playing Elle Woods, and Rufus with Melissa Nicholson, who is playing Paulette Buonufonte.”
Henderson said the dogs would be required to attend specific rehearsals in the lead-up to the show, on a Sunday, Monday or Tuesday
“Plus, possibly every evening the week prior to the show opening and all performances at Baycourt.”
Eight performances
‘Legally Blonde The Musical’ is a fast-paced, feel-good production packed with humour, heart, and high-energy numbers. Based on the beloved film, it follows the journey of Elle Woods as she defies expectations, and tackles stereotypes and scandals in pursuit of her dream to go to Harvard Law School.The Baycourt season will include eight performances, with evening shows on July 26, 29, 30, 31, August 1, and 2, and matinees on July 27 and August 2. In support of a local breast cancer awareness initiative, the production is keeping ticket prices accessible to encourage community donations. Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Melissa Nicholson who is playing Paulette Buonufonte is needing a bulldog like Boston, who is in his senior years, to play Rufus Photo / Brydie Thompson
Fundraising for new w rec cling machine
A Bay of Plenty group that runs activities to promote environmental sustainability buy-in from the community is fundraising for a new heat press to continue their recycling movement.
Envirohub Bay of Plenty, based in Tauranga City’s Glasgow St, needs to buy a new heat press for its Precious Plastic project, which has run for five years, after its former machine broke down, said Envirohub BOP community co-ordinator Cathy Donnelly
The machine was used to provide a small-scale solution for No 2 and No 5 plastic lids that cannot be recycled through the kerbside recycling system The press melted the recycled lids into flat sheets of plastic, which volunteers use to create a variety of new commercial and business products – such as clocks, earrings and fridge magnets.
The Precious Plastic project aimed to empower individuals and communities to tackle plastic waste and show people that plastic is “ a precious resource”, said Donnelly
“We are currently at a crossroads with our project until we have the new machine to create more sheets of plastic,” said Donnelly “However, we are still producing plastic shred with the help of
our volunteers and have sold some. ”
To fund the new machine, Envirohub is selling another recycling-made-easy item called Wholly Shrinks.
“The Wholly Shrink is a neat compact storage system that compresses the bags and can be left on the kitchen bench as a reminder for all those soft plastic items you encounter in the kitchen with food prep, ” said Donnelly “Those of us passionate about recycling are collecting soft plastics and taking them to the bins at supermarkets each week,” said Donnelly, who believed “ waste is not waste until we waste it”.
Donnelly said while Envirohub BOP is mindful of shopping
for products sold in soft plastics and preferred to avoid or reduce consumption of them – “for those that can ’ t be avoided it felt like this was a product that would be useful and this fits in with the recycling kaupapa we have at Envirohub”
For each Wholly Shrink sold, $10 will go towards the heat press machine. Wholly Shrinks retail for $40 online with a $15 shipping fee, or purchase direct from Envirohub to save on shipping costs.
Donnelly said the new heat press machine would cost $18,000. “We’ve raised $8500 to date and will keep fundraising and applying for grants until we hit our target. ”
To find out more, visit: https:// envirohub.org.nz
Completingperimeterpathway
Tauranga City Council is making it safer and easier to get around Hopukiore (Mount Drury) by completing the missing section of the perimeter pathway on the Pacific Ave side of the mountain Once completed, the project will create a fully connected, safer loop around the base of the reserve –plus, the steep and narrow sections of the pathway along Maunganui Rd will be upgraded with a timber
boardwalk “We’re also installing barriers at the cave entrances to help preserve their cultural and archaeological significance and keep everyone safe ” Works were set to start this week, depending on weather, and was expected to take six to eight weeks
Find out more at: https:// letstalk tauranga govt nz/projects/ hopukiore-mount-drury-pathwayupgrade
Envirohub’s Precious Plastic project coordinator
Te Ara Dirkse Photo / Brydie Thompson
Ayla Yeoman
Matariki art at The Incubator
This Saturday, June 14, The Incubator Creative Hub is hosting a vibrant Matariki celebration titled Ngā Toi o Ngā Whetu – The Art of the Stars.
Incubator director Simone Anderson said the free morning event, starting at 10am, launches a series of four remarkable exhibitions
“This celebration brings together four stunning exhibitions showcasing student talent, intergenerational Māori clay artistry, contemporary toi Māori, and a collective of Tauranga Moana artists and a distinguished guest artist,” Anderson said The event honours Matariki – the Māori New Year and a time for reflection, renewal, and community – through an inspiring blend of visual art, performance, and kai (food) Visitors can explore four galleries, each presenting unique stories of culture, creativity, and connection
Pāpāmoa College returns with its third annual ‘Hononga’ exhibition, where students present powerful works inspired by their connections to land, sea, and people
In The Pothouse Gallery, the intergenerational Māori clay art exhibition ‘Te Kāhui Waiata
Uku’ features celebrated artist Baye Riddell and Incubator resident ceramicist artist Sandy Kerr alongside emerging talents, weaving together whakapapa and innovation in clay
The Whare Taonga Gallery showcases Jordyn Elise Daniels’ contemporary Māori paintings, exploring atua wāhine and the natural world through traditional patterns and recycled materials Meanwhile,
the Incubator Gallery presents ‘Hei Tāpiri’, a collective exhibition led by Maraea Timutimu celebrating Tauranga Moana’s rich artistic heritage. Anderson said adding to the atmosphere will be Pāpāmoa College students performing kapa haka and live music Attendees will also enjoy delicious kai and the vibrant ambiance of The Historic Village.
Rosalie
Liddle Crawford
Lakes
LU XURY L AKESIDE R ETIR EMENT
The village’s main community facility, The Pavilion, is currently under construction. Positioned on the lakes edge, this impressive building will house an eatery, lounge bar, library, art studio, beauty salon, wellness suite and extensive recreational facilities Experience our community first-hand - show home available by appointment
Contemporary Māori artwork by Jordyn Elise Daniels. Photo / Supplied.
Wāhine on the rise
Girls are getting it done at the Pāpāmoa East interchange as the infrastructure industry encourages more wāhine to “give it a go”.
Tauranga site engineer Madison McDonald followed in her father’s footsteps after she found that the Government offered free engineering training. “I love it,” McDonald said.
The industry equipped her with a wide range of new skills, including
how to work with clients and consultants, she said
The Weekend Sun attended the mammoth “Girl with High Vis” event hosted by Connexis and HEB
Construction on June 7.
Only 18% of the industry’s workforce are women – a number Connexis is determined to change, customer service account manager
Tarsha Ormsby said
“So we want to grow that, build awareness for them,” Ormsby said
The programme is now in its 10th
Premila D’Mello, Prathima Rao, Ashley Perera, Astrid Freeman, BeverlyVokia- Scarle , Tina Zhang, Colin Capill, Orna Amir, Gus D’Mello, Mark Bils, JP. Nina Payne, Ratna Seemakur , Caroline D and all our volunteers
year, covering a range of areas within the industry, including civil engineering, energy, wastewater, traffic management and more.
Girls with Hi-Vis launched in the electricity supply industry in 2015, with more than 50 women participating thanks to company support, Ormsby said.
“We now have more than 800 students involved, so it has grown a lot.”
Different mindset
Promo
Wāhine bring a different look and mindset to the infrastructure industry with a methodical approach, she said “Girls can do anything that boys can. ” The programme ranges from NCEA Level 2 through to Level 6 and can take between
three and six years to complete an apprenticeship “Once you ’ re there, you can be earning some good money ” Training can begin in high school as Connexis offers a gateway programme and connects those wishing to work in the industry with a range of employers, Ormsby said Equipment administrator Dani Malcolm said it’s hard to explain her job, but she loves every minute of it. “It’s all over the show,” Malcolm said Her job can include assisting with the purchase of new equipment, overseeing servicing of new vehicles, invoicing clients and helping the site run efficiently “It is really diverse.” Previously, a full driver’s licence was non-negotiable for entering
the industry Now, if you have a restricted licence, you can enter the Wheels, Tracks and Rollers course, HEB Construction senior project manager Duncan Alberts said
Nearly 40%
Despite women making up only 18% of all employees at HEB Construction, nearly 40% of its staff at the Pāpāmoa office are women, Alberts said Construction on the interchange kicked off in July 2022 and is on track for completion by mid-2026. Additionally, the eastbound ramp is due to be completed between August and September to help alleviate traffic along the Tauranga Eastern Link, Alberts said Tom Eley
Photo / Tom Eley
Two more high needs s classrooms
Tauranga Special School
principal Barrie Wickens was chuffed and excited to find out that the Government had allocated $30 million towards expanding specialist school property around the country.
“It’s a significant step, ” he said, adding that most specialist schools around the country had long waiting lists of students with additional needs. On June 5, the Minister of Education Erica Stanford announced
her government ’ s plan to ensure more students with the highest learning support needs have access to warm, safe, dry and fit-for-purpose learning environments
Limited
“We know many parents of children with high needs want the option of a specialist education setting. Right now, those choices are limited because our specialist schools are stretched beyond capacity,” she said in a statement.
Budget 2025 would allocate $30
million to expand specialist school property by funding the construction of 18 new satellite classrooms at host schools nationwide and five additional classrooms at two base specialist schools. Two classrooms would be constructed at Te Puke Primary School for Tauranga Special School. “The classrooms are set to enter construction over the next 12 months,” said Stanford.
To attend a specialist school a student must be specially verified as high needs or very high needs, which Wickens said has a lot of criteria.
“Essentially they have to have some form of intellectual
impairment, and some can have inflection and disabilities,” said Wickens.
Tauranga Special School, which offers therapy, support staff and teaching catered specifically for students of high needs from age five-21, celebrated its 60th anniversary last month
In demand
Wickens said the roll had gone from 11 students in the early days to 122 today and a waiting list of 21. “We get enquires every day We’re in demand.”
Currently, Tauranga Special School has six sites operating five days a week, including at
Bupa Greerton Oaks Retirement Village
Enquiries over $535,000^
and two offsite lease facilities
Wickens said the new classrooms would accommodate 16 students, and will mean the school can address some of the students from the Te Puke area Stanford said specialist schools play a vital role in the education system “This investment recognises the incredible work these schools do and builds on the largest boost to learning support in a generation “The sooner we build, the sooner schools can provide tailored support, so more children have the chance to thrive ”
A retirement village that feels like a village, not a retirement city.
Greerton Oaks Retirement Village is located in Tauranga, with the charming Greerton town centre nearby and just a short stroll to local shops and amenities
Our boutique village features 22 two bedroom villas, providing both independence and a sense of belonging. Set amongst attractive gardens, our welcoming villas offer easy care living without the hassle of everyday maintenance
• Fixed weekly fees
• 24/7 emergency alarm system
• Small and friendly
Contact Debbie on 07 245 1728 or visit bupa.co.nz/greertonoaks
Bupa Greerton Oaks Retirement Village | 108 Greerton Road, Gate Pa, Tauranga
^Price is for a licence to occupy under an Occupation Right Agreement
Pāpāmoa College, Tauranga Intermediate, Welcome Bay Primary, Te Kura o Manunui
Ayla Yeoman
Tauranga Special School principal Barrie Wickens.
Photo / Brydie Thompson
When the Irish came to town...
You don’t have to scratch too deep to find the Northern Ireland connection in Katikati Stand at any intersection and look up The street names are innocuous enough but reflect the town ’ s deep Irish roots. Like Carisbrooke Street – named for the ‘Carisbrooke Castle’, the ship that carried the protestant families from Ulster to Katikati in the 1870s.
And Rae Road, Mulgan Street, Jocelyn Street, Morton Road, Wright Road “All named for the first 80 Irish families in Katikati,” said Paula Gaelic, manager of the Western Bay Museum in Katikati Unity
Come September it will the 150th anniversary of the arrival of George Vesey Stewart and tenant farmers of Northern Ireland in the Katikati area “But as a community we decided we wanted to acknowledge and celebrate that connection during Matariki, because Matariki is about reflection, acknowledging what happened in the past, and setting new goals for the future, it’s about community unity” Gaelic said often towns celebrating an anniversary of early settlements don’t acknowledge mana whenua being there before them “So by celebrating the 150th anniversary of the arrival of the Irish at Matariki we are also celebrating the fact this land was inhabited, developed and used by Māori beforehand It signals community unity”
20 at 5 30am at Park Road Reserve
The Northern Irish and Māori have a lot in common as both were colonised by England
“Both were stripped of their language, land and culture,” Gaelic said “We can ’ t change history, but we can certainly change things moving forward as a community And that’s really healthy”
Everyone is very comfortable celebrating the 150th Ulster pioneers’ anniversary along with our mana whenua, Gaelic said
Embraced and
To enforce the unity, the Ambassador of Ireland to New Zealand, Jane Connelly, will return to the Te Rereatukahia Marae for the ‘Reading of the Stars’ event on Thursday evening, June 19 and the Matariki Dawn Service the following morning, June
celebrated
She believed the Irish who came to Katikati wanted a new life to “ escape war, devastation and hunger” at home. One of the ‘Carisbrooke Castle’ passengers who would make it, and excel, was a five-year-old boy called Dave Gallaher from County Donegal. He would become one of Katikati’s most famous sons – a freezing works foreman who would captain the 1905-1906 ‘Original All Blacks’, the first NZ representative rugby tour of the British Isles But 11 years later he would die in the trenches of Passchendaele. The boy from Katikati is now a son of Belgium too
By 1968 there were few, if any, direct descendant Irish families left “They inter-married and moved to other parts of the country But you can ’ t take away Katikati’s Ulster connection,” said Gaelic.
“It’s in the names; it’s in the murals.” Like the image of the late George Vesey Stewart, the Ulsterman elected first Mayor of Tauranga in 1882. It’s etched in the history and the town ’ s DNA “It’s going be there forever,” said Gaelic. And it will be embraced and celebrated by Katikati at Matariki. Hunter Wells
Western Bay of Plenty District Council has agreed to sell its shareholdings in Zespri Group Ltd and Seeka Ltd.
Western Bay of Plenty councillors made the decision at last week’s Audit, Risk and Finance Committee meeting
In a statement, the council said the move forms part of its broader financial strategy to review non-core assets and ensure funds are directed towards activities that directly benefit the community Committee chairperson, Western Bay councillor Murray Grainger, said it was a carefully considered decision, made with a strong awareness of the district’s rural and horticultural heritage. “We’re very proud to represent a district with such a strong horticultural sector
Western Bay of Plenty residents are invited to a special event next Tuesday, June 17, during National Volunteer Week.
Katch Katikati is hosting ‘Kati Chat: Volunteer Opportunities in Katikati’ from 10am-11am at The Arts Junction, 36 Main Rd. “Come along and learn about local volunteering opportunities and how you can help The event includes morning tea – and everyone is
these particular shares, though, were not acquired as part of a deliberate investment strategy by council They came about through past land and orchard transactions.
“While the shares have provided some dividend income, they’re not directly linked to the delivery of [the] council’s services or strategic outcomes. ”
The council holds 26,490 shares in Zespri Group Ltd and 11,247 shares in Seeka Ltd, with an estimated market value of about $207,000. Proceeds from the sale will be allocated to the General Rates Reserve, helping to strengthen the council’s financial position and providing flexibility to fund priority projects, reduce debt or enhance financial resilience, Grainger said
welcome,” said Katch Katikati marketing manager Fiona Powell “Hear from more than a dozen local organisations and find out how you can contribute to our community and make a difference. Or just come along and find out how they help our community!” RSVP for the free event by midday June 16 for catering purposes by phoning 07 549 5250 or email: info@katchkatikati.org.nz
The Ulster-Irish founder of Katikati, the late George Vesey Stewart Photo / File
The late George Vesey Stewart is featured in Katikati Open Air Art’s mural number 64, located on the Main Rd, painted by Shane Walker in 2016 Photo / Supplied
Fifty years of mindful movement
From controversial beginnings in the early-1970s, Tauranga Yoga Centre is now a community of yogis celebrating 50 years of mindful movement
“The aim of the centre has always been about providing authentic yoga, ” said centre operations manager Sue Furey
Tauranga Yoga Centre was first incorporated in 1972, and yoga classes were taught in community halls by volunteers.
Recognising the need for a dedicated
space, the centre ’ s founders quickly began fundraising to build a purposebuilt facility The teachers volunteered their time, hosted massage days, and organised handcraft and cake stalls Their efforts paid off, and in 1975 there was enough money for a deposit, along with a bank loan to secure the land, at 173 Elizabeth Street West, leased from Tauranga City Co
“The idea was initially met wi some resistance,” said Furey “ disgruntled resid to the newspaper a ‘Hindu cult’ and judge that w
understand Thankfully, things have changed, and today we have students from all walks of life and ages reaping the benefits for the mind and body”
Out of my head
Furey said for her, yoga was
ty as inspiring; among them 96-yearold Doreen McNeill. “I started yoga when I lived in the Bahamas,” the Brookfield resident said. “I
found it difficult at first because d been playing a lot of squash The stretching of yoga felt quite pposite, but I enjoyed it and kept up ” McNeill is an acclaimed abstract rtist and often surprises others and herself – with her age “I forget sometimes,” she laughed. “Someone the other day said: ‘Oh, so you ’ re 96’ and for a split second genuinely thought that wasn ’ t ght. I mean, my youth is history, now I was there in London as a 16-year-old celebrating V-E Day [Victory in Europe Day, marking the official end of World War II in Europe on May 8, 1945] 80 years ago ” For someone whose final
year of school was spent mostly in bomb shelters in north-west London – “it was so ordinary – you just got used to it” – TYC offers a relaxed community to be part of “I have a bad knee and a bad shoulder now, but there are still plenty of things I can do and really enjoy Even gentle stretches will help you get looser and stronger Lots of people here are over 70 and it’s such a friendly, helpful group of people. We often go for a coffee and a chat afterwards ” TYC is offering a range of classes and events as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations. Visit: www.taurangayoga.org.nz
Debbie Griffiths
Tauranga Yoga Centre teachers Louise Thompson, Jennifer Roberts, Portia Thompson and Sue Furey with 96-year-old Doreen O’Neill in front.
Photo / Debbie Griffiths
Disabilities resource centre nationally recognised
A Tauranga centre that is “totally committed to positively impacting the lives of the elderly and people with disabilities” has been recognised nationally for its work
The Disabilities Resource Centre, based in Tauranga and Whakatāne, was bestowed with the Member of the Year 2025 award at the recent New Zealand Federation of Disability Information Services national conference
“We are thrilled to share that our organisation was honoured with the Member of the Year 2025 award,” said D Disabilities Resource Centre Trust’s information services co-ordinator, Naomi Freeman
The Disabilities Resource
Centre was given the accolade for its exceptional service, she said.
Whether people with disabilities needed to know how to get a mobility parking card, if their parents were entitled to free home care, or what support groups were available in the community, the centre had the answers, she said “We are a one-stop shop for disability information, with knowledge and resources about all things disability in one place.”
Community library
As well as having friendly staff to point people in the right direction, they also had a community library with information on support g groupps and the types of government benefits available, books, newsletters and DVDs
Freeman said liaison field officers – who specialised in brain injuries, Post-Polio Syndrome, pulmonary rehabilitation, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – were available to provide information, support and advocacy
Team’s dedication
The centre ’ s community services team worked hard to ensure people with disabilities had a chance to be included in their community with supported independent living and vocational services
Its home care service provided a team to consult people with disabilities to develop tailored p plans to help p provide household management, such as vacuuming, laundry, meal preparation and
shopping; and help with grooming, showering and eating “This award recognises our team ’ s dedication to providing inclusive, accessible and empowering services to people with disabilities, older people and their whānau across our community,”
Freeman said
The award also reflected years of hard work, compassion and
innovation in the disability support sector “Our CEO, Bronwen Foxx, has led the organisation with passion and commitment for the past 27 years, ” said Freeman, who attended the conference to receive the award on behalf of the team
Look up the Disabilities Resource Centre at: www drct co nz
Rosalie Liddle Crawford
The NZ Federation of Disability Information Centres executive officer Carol Wood, Disabilities Resource Centre CEO Bronwen Foxx, information services co-ordinator Naomi Freeman and NZ Federation of Disability Information Centres president Lisa Martin. Photo / Supplied.
Isn’t wee Isla cute?
Four-month-old female tabby Isla and sister Heidi were found wandering around a retirement village as small, sick and vulnerable kittens.
Clearly not residents of the village, they found their way to SPCA for some help
Support hospice by donating your pre-loved items
Isla has grown into a fun, friendly and affectionate girl. She will come up to greet you and smooch around you to say ‘hello’. She loves a pat and a cuddle and just to be by your side. She loves to have a chat and gets your attention by meowing as much and as loud as she can as you pass her pen.
Isla is still young, inquisitive and curious, so loves to play and her big scratchy post a favourite to climb and leap from.
Both sisters have spent time at a loving foster home, so should slot in well with family life.
Isla is sure to bring lots of fun and feline love to her new family Apply to meet her today! Phone Tauranga SPCA on 075780245 Ref: 633142.
Waipuna Hospice is calling on the community to donate quality used items to help stock their charity shops
Right now, they’re especially in need of good condition furniture and bric-a-brac
Every item sold in a Waipuna Hospice Charity Shop helps fund specialist palliative care for people in our community facing a life-limiting illness Without donated goods, this care simply wouldn’t be possible, said Waipuna Hospice retail general manager Jace Dowman
“We rely on the generosity of our community to keep our shops running,” said Dowman “Whether it’s a couch you no longer need or some unused kitchenware, your donations help us provide essential care and support for local families ” They do ask, however, that donations are clean and in good, saleable condition “If you wouldn’t buy it yourself, please don’t donate it,” Dowman said
“Unfortunately, we end up paying thousands in dump fees each month to get rid of
unsellable items, which means less money going where it’s needed: care for our patients and their whānau ” Donations can be dropped off at any Waipuna Hospice Charity Shop, or at their depots on Brook St in Tauranga or Domain Rd in Pāpāmoa If you have larger items, you can
book a free collection by calling 07 281 1755 and leaving a message Hospice care touches so many lives, from patients to whānau and friends. By donating your pre-loved goods, you ’ re not just decluttering, you ’ re helping to provide comfort, dignity, and support when it matters most
People can donate items to any of the six Waipuna Hospice Shops, or their depots in Tauranga and Pāpāmoa. Photo / Supplied
Home &
Neighbourhood garden sprouting
A budding neighbourhood garden in Tauranga that aims to create sustainable food sources for its volunteers and neighbours has just started to take root
The garden sits on 8000m2 of private land on Darraghs Rd in Ōtūmoetai and belongs to Steve Nicholson, garden organiser Jeanette Daysh said “It’s not a public community garden.”
A handful of neighbours had turned soil or planted carrot seeds when The Weekend Sun visited the Ōtūmoetai property late-May But with winter here, Daysh said the garden would “settle down” a bit. “Then come the springtime, we’ll be full on again.”
Daysh said the garden was weekend work, but the team would move into fortnightly work.
Student volunteer army member from Ōtūmoetai College, Olivia Hubbard, said the project caught her attention because she wanted to help people in her community “It is a good opportunity”
Olivia’s mother, Sarah Hubbard, also volunteered at the Darragh St garden and wanted to support the social supermarket, she said.
Eventually, the garden would have fruit trees, vegetables, and a sensory garden, but the project was
still in its infancy, only getting underway in March
Daysh said when they had more food produced, they’d be able to help more people in the street who needed it. Any excess food will go to the Otumoetai Social Supermarket, run by John and Jackie Paine, Daysh said
Steve Nicholson became involved in the project after he was introduced to the Paines and wanted to use his land to help combat food insecurity, he said Only about 3000m2 of his 8000m2 is usable with the rest being swampland, Nicholson said.
The garden’s voluntary nature also allowed Nicholson to form more of a community with his neighbours, none of whom knew each other before the project began, he said
“I understand the need to connect with people.”
Nicholson said the garden was not for everyone to come and help themselves, and access was limited to volunteers
It’s not essential to have a green thumb or gardening background to volunteer; you need a willingness to roll up your sleeves and some patience, he said.
Members of Darraghs Rd can volunteer for the project by emailing: Darraghsrdcommunitygarden@gmail.com
Tom Eley
Olivia and Sarah Hubbard at the Darraghs Rd Garden project.
Photo / Tom Eley
Bunnings Tauranga Open Soon
1150 Cameron Road, Gate Pa
Our friendly team are working really hard to get the store ready and we ’ re so excited to open our doors soon Our new store will be packed with inspiration, ideas and D I Y advice You’ll be able to explore our nursery, bursting with life, colour and landscaping supplies for green thumbs and garden lovers. Find colour inspiration for your projects in our paint department, plus colour matching and free paint tinting. Reimagine your kitchen with our kitchen design services, and spoil your pets with food supplies, toys plus more
And Tradies – we ’ re almost ready to help get your jobs sorted. We’ve got quality tools from brands you trust, and we ’ re always ready to help. No matter what project you ’ re working on, we’ll help you get it done with the lowest prices
We can’t wait to see you in-store soon.
Tammy
Kia ora, I’m Tammy, Complex Manager at your new Bunnings Tauranga store.
Tammy
Complex Manager, 3 years
Next time you ’ re in London, once you ’ ve eyeballed the Big Ben, Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace, get out into the country.
Why? Because there’s more to Ye Olde England than just London.
I mean, not far along the M4 are some of the sweetest, loveliest corners you can find in this “ green and pleasant land” And when you wander off the beaten track through leafy woodland lanes, you ’ re soon oohing-andaahing at fairytale villages, thatch-roofed cottages, flowersmothered gardens, pubs with weird names, cathedrals with
pointy roofs, medieval castles and knights in shining armour
Fell in love...
We fell in love with the honeycoloured village of Woodstock, explored stunning Blenheim Palace, felt the ‘Downton Abbey’ vibes in old Bampton town, went walkabout in exotic gardens at Hidcote Manor, got all floral in Kiftsgate Court created by green-fingered women, stumbled upon magical Broadway and the horsechestnut trees lining its streets, and immersed ourselves (like the Romans) in historic Bath.
We meandered through idyllic hamlets like St Ives, Port
On a solo reconnaissance mission through Tasmania, Nikki Clerke experienced the highlights of Seemore Tours’ 12-day tour
“My journey began with a warm meet-and-greet with the local Tassie team, whose enthusiasm ensured an exceptional experience for our travelers,” said the Seemore Tours director Hobart, nestled under Mt Wellington, was Clerke’s first stop
She said the vibrant city serves as a gateway to Bruny Island, a community-rich locale known for its stunning beaches, native forests, and local delicacies. “I particularly enjoyed the breathtaking views from Cape Bruny Lighthouse. Next, I visited Port Arthur, historically a penal settlement.
“The site is beautifully maintained, showcasing evocative ruins and thoughtful presentations of its history”
The magic
Clerke said the optional harbour cruise provided a fascinating perspective on the prison’s past “In the charming town of Richmond, I explored Australia’s oldest bridge and enjoyed traditional Devonshire tea before heading to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, where I learned about the conservation efforts for endangered native species, including the Tasmanian devil “Regrettably, I missed the renowned MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), which is becoming a significant reason to visit Tasmania In Launceston, I was struck by the city’s heritage reflected in its historic buildings
“While I found Cataract Gorge mildly interesting,
Isaac, Bourton-on-the-Water, and grisly-sounding Lower Slaughter We kicked back in the seaside magic of Padstow And we roamed more bloomin’ gardens than you could shake a gumboot at: Trebah, Heligan, Sissinghurst and Great Dixter, to name just a few
To finish with a midlife madness flourish, we crossed the channel for a sensational outdoor concert in Andre Rieu’s hometown of Maastricht, Holland – yeehaa!
Now, we ’ re doing it all again in June/July 2026 – so don’t miss out! Phone 0800 323 333 or visit: www.midlifemadness.tours
it remains a popular attraction My adventure continued at Cradle Mountain, which was unexpectedly covered in snow
“I enjoyed the Rainforest and Enchanted Forest walks, where I spotted diverse wildlife and ended my trek at a stunning waterfall These shorter trails offer a magical experience for those not up for the full Dove Lake Circuit, making it an ideal way to appreciate the beauty of this region ”
Clerke said she was thrilled to have experienced a huge portion of the proposed tour, and it confirmed one thing: 12 days is exactly what’s needed to truly appreciate the magic of this island
John Cooney
The summit of kunanyi at Mt Wellington.
Photo / Justin Hyde
Blenheim Palace Estate in Woodstock, Oxfordshire.
Photo / File
Volunteering weaves us togetheer
Aotearoa’s National Volunteer Week - Te Wiki Tūao ā-Motu – is upon us for 2025, to honour the collective energies and efforts of volunteers across New Zealand
From June 15-21 Kiwis are being asked to recognise and thank the millions of people who give their time and skills to our communities
This year ’ s theme is Whiria te tangata – weaving the people together, said the website of Tūao Aotearoa Volunteering New Zealand
“This year ’ s theme celebrates the power of volunteering to bring people together Volunteering weaves us
together, strengthening g the fabric of our communiities for a stronger, more inclusive Aotearoa New w Zealand ” To get involved in the week, say ‘thank you ’ volunteers, promote evvents or activities, share stories and social media postss; and encourage others to geet involved
Find out more information on Volunteering NZ’s webbsite: www volunteeringnz o org nz
Celebrating the Bay of Plenty’s volunteers
celebrate,” said Wallace The events will not only involve celebrations and nibbles, but also the Volunteer Star Awards where Volunteering BOP will announce the winners and share volunteer stories
“Members of the public and organisations have nominated their amazing volunteers to win awards,” said Wallace “We’ve had about 17 nominations of volunteers across the Western BOP”
The invite-only event will bring together volunteers from organisations across the Bay of Plenty “I can ’ t imagine the world without volunteers They contribute so much love and so many hours. It really makes our community a better p place ”
National Volunteer Week is about to begin and the Western Bay of Plenty is gearing up to celebrate.
Volunteering Services Bay of Plenty is hosting four events across the region to recognise the hardworking volunteers of the community
Starting on Tuesday, June 17, Volunteering Services manager Angela Wallace said they will host a volunteer morning tea. In the evening a Big Shout Out celebration evening will be held for the volunteers of Te Puke
On the morning of the Wednesday, June 18, Tauranga will host a Big Shout Out morning tea at The Kollective, and that evening Waihi Beach School will host a hangi for local volunteers in the spirit of Matariki “We have asked a whole bunch of volunteering organisations from Tauranga to bring their team of volunteers together and
Volunteer Heather Chander, volunteering services manager Angela Wallace, community engagement advisor Nicki Turner and volunteer Meng Gu.
Ayla Yeoman
The Volunteering Services BOP team at the Tauranga Multicultural Festival Photos / Supplied
Tauranga He. event gives men space to speak out
Eight years ago in her role as a life coach, helping mainly women, Tauranga resident Cassandra Hogan’s issues raised by other wāhine kept coming up
“The men in their lives were struggling,” Hogan said.
A severe lack of support for men and their struggles with mental health drove Hogan to launch He. – A Men’s Mental Health Charity Event in 2023. “It was so powerful to see these guys get up there and be vulnerable,” she said.
This year ’ s event will take place on July 11 from 5.30pm-11pm at the Cargo Shed in Tauranga City, featuring speakers Jack Jensen, Corey Choat, Russell Packer and Paul Anthony
Currently the He event sticks to the Bay of Plenty community, but Hogan had psychologists in Christchurch wanting to run a
similar event there.
In New Zealand, it can take weeks to see a doctor, and even longer to get a counsellor, Hogan said. As a result, the Tauranga resident said she was stepping in to give men a space where they feel heard
A step, and hope
“It doesn’t take much. It does take a step and provides that hope,” Hogan said.
In the 2023 and 2024 financial years, 445 suspected selfinflicted deaths out of 617 were males, according to Te Whatu Ora. Self-inflicted deaths for Māori males were 24.8 per 100,000 Māori male population, twice the amount for nonMāori, at 12.7 per 100,000.
“Suicide was the third-leading category of death,” Te Whatu Ora said.
Hogan is joined by Kiwi action sports star and Spark That Chat founder Jack Jensen, whose work
in the field of men ’ s mental health is personal. In 2020, a string of Jensen’s friends took their own lives in a period of just a few months They ranged in age from 18-50, he said “I was just like, f***, I don’t get it, but I know this is not being talked about enough ” In March 2021, he launched Spark That Chat after experiencing first-hand the emotional ups and downs men face and learning key lessons about mental health Jensen prides himself on keeping his talks raw and honest and does not preach about tools he does not personally use. “I wouldn’t
talk about s*** that I don’t utilise myself ” Tickets for He. –
A Men’s Mental Health Charity Event, 5.30pm-11pm on July 11
Youthtackle40hours offline this weekend
Tauranga students will this weekend participate in 2025’s World Vision 40 Hour Challenge, as local venues light up orange in support of the nation’s largest youth fundraising campaign
This year ’ s World Vision 40 Hour Challenge encouraged participants to do “40 hours offline” to help raise funds for children in Solomon Islands affected by climate-driven hunger
Bethlehem College students will undertake a 40-hour “ sport overnighter” and stay at school for 40 hours to play a range of sports and games from June 13-15
Meanwhile, five local venues will light up orange, including Wharf St lights, Beacon Wharf, Masonic Park, the Waterfront and Tunks Reserve
Young people nationwide are taking on all manner of challenges, including living in a dinghy for 40 hours; speaking only Shakespearean English for 40 hours; making 400 paper cranes in 40 hours; and cooking 500 meals in 40 hours
World Vision’s associate national director TJ Grant was blown away by the challenges young Kiwis were taking on “It’s inspiring to see so many young people put themselves to the test to support their peers in Solomon Islands who don’t get enough to eat each day due to the changing climate
“I’m always so encouraged by the passion, ingenuity, and creativity of the challenges our young people demand of themselves and this year there’s the extra challenge to be offline for 40 hours! But that 40-hour sacrifice will make a world of difference for hungry children in Solomon Islands ” Funds raised in this year ’ s World Vision 40 Hour Challenge will give families in Solomon Islands tools and seeds to farm climate-smart crops, plant mangroves to protect their land from rising sea levels and restore fish populations and provide sustainable food sources for future generations to ensure children can grow up healthy and strong in a changing climate.
The World Vision 40 Hour Challenge happens June 13-15 Sign up to, or donate, at: 40hour org nz
at the Cargo Shed, Tauranga, can be purchased from: https://events humanitix.com/he-mens-mentalhealth-charity-event Tom Eley
RESTAURANTOPEN TOTHEPUBLIC JointheTauranga CitizensClubfor only$35andaone offadministration feeof$10
Fridaynightinthe Clubroomsthisweek: Background musicwithRietta 430pm-630pm Saturdaynightinthe ArtieStewartLounge: Karaokefrom7.30pm
Tom Eley
Above: Emcee Gavin Bisman, with event speakers Corey Choat, Paul Anthony and Russell Packer who will speak at the He. event. Inset: It is Cassandra Hogan’s third year running the He event Photos / Supplied
Bethlehem College students will be taking part in the 40-hour challenge this weekend Photo / Supplied
Loserpalooza and an open mic
It’s back – time for Loserpalooza 2025
Totara St will come alive from midday for 12 hours on Saturday, June 21, with the sounds of 24 bands each playing for 30 minutes on one of two alternating stages
It’s a mammoth venture, now in its eighth year Bands used to come from across the country until the pandemic struck. In 2020, with the same organisational skill that led to this year ’ s jazz festival moving inside in the face of an extreme weather event, promoter Austin Cunningham moved the entire festival online.
Since then he has switched to a line-up of purely Bay of Plenty bands That’s quite extraordinary when you think of it Is there another musical genre that could yield two dozen BOP bands? Perhaps if you combined jazz and blues, but even then you’d be short
Real bands
And I’m not talking about scratch bands assembled at a couple of quick rehearsals for a big show No, these are real bands: they play gigs, they record and release music, they have songs in charts And it’s not just a teenage riot Sure, there’s Sewerside Rats, mid-teen girls delving into 1970s punk, but the average age probably skews closer to 50 than 15
I’m embarrassed to say last year was the first Loserpalooza I’ve attended I did a 1pm-5pm stint and revelled in every minute There was a huge variety and with each band only playing 30 minutes nothing drags
Highpoints were the off-beat pop of chart-topping We Will Ride Fast, the
attack of This Is How We Die, who would be sensational with a big light show, Dead Simple, who brought an increasing and impressive energy to their set, and particularly False Waltons I’ve mentioned before that being pinned to a table by the sheer force of their sound possibly isn’t for everyone But it worked for me
False Waltons play wall-of-sound guitar rock and this time are also offering a warm-up gig the night before, on June 20, around the corner at Palace Tavern with Slaying Seas and Swallow the Rat
Interesting venture
So it’s Totara St for me next Saturday, June 21, along with Stunt Clown, Two Skinner, Grown Downz, Skonk, Sewerside Rats, The Slaying Seas, Hoick, Carrion Bride, Somacaine, False Waltons, Dead Simple, This is How We Die, Not Exact, Eddie and the Dreamers, We Will Ride Fast, 5G Meatsuit, Talismer, Cost of Living, The Beatnik Staffs, Token Ceremony, Crate of Chaos, The Foamies,
Punktuation, and Threat.Meet.Protocol.
If that’s not your cup of meat, there’s an interesting venture at The Jam Factory on June 21 A group of singers at “ open mic” nights are collaborating for a group show, hosted by Joanne Melbourne, well-known at such nights and for singing with Mike Garner and others
There are seven singers, including Lil Wilkinson, Hilary Bradley, Colette Turner, Orna Amir, Trevor Bolton and Sue Windmill, while the second half of the show is an album launch for Ben Lloyd’s new offering ‘Leave No Stone Unturned’ Sounds like a fun night
Movie night on Tauranga waterfront
Bay of Plenty residents are invited to rug up and enjoy a free outdoor movie this Saturday, June 14, at The Strand on Tauranga’s waterfront.
Night Owl Cinema is screening ‘Moana 2’ in te reo Māori, with English subtitles, as part of Whānau Weekend on the Waterfront, which is supported by Tauranga City Council.
Movie-goers are encouraged to dress in warm
clothing, bring something to sit on and a blanket to keep cosy
The evening will commence with an opening performance by Mount Maunganui College’s Malo Uma Pasifika Group at 4.30pm and the movie will begin 5pm.
Moana 2 in te reo Māori takes audiences on an expansive new voyage with Moana, Maui and a new crew of unlikely seafarers
After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana must journey to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she’s ever faced. There will be food trucks at the free family night out. Find out more at: www whatsontauranga.co.nz
Enjoy whānau fun at vibrantmarket
A family-friendly event is on at Tauranga waterfront this weekend, thanks to The Little Big Markets.
From 9am-2pm, on Sunday, June 15, TLBM event will be set up, offering a vibrant marketplace with local food, crafts and more. There will be a dedicated kids’ market lane, live music, food trucks, a pottery workshop, treasure hunt, backyard games, face painting and more fun interactive games for the whole family. Plus, the Rescue, Revive, Rehome group will be present with puppies and kittens that are up for adoption Find out more at: www.whatsontauranga.co.nz
Sewerside Rats. Photo / Ryan Greenwood
Talismer Photo / Ryan Greenwood
CLASSIFIEDSECTION
If we had a great product, we’d want everyone to know about it
If God really cared about all of us having the greatest thing ever, eternal life with Him, we’d therefore expect He’d let the world know
According to the Bible, He has! Adam knew God and lived 930 years His life overlapped Methuselah’s Their lives spanned about 1650 years of human history It’s no wonder early recorded cultures all worshipped God or gods because their close ancestor had met God Noah knew Methuselah The Bible says his family restarted human civilisation after the Great Flood and his son Shem’s life reached hundreds of more years into history Unsurprisingly, many cultures have similar stories to Noah’s flood Throughout the rest of
the Bible God interacted with various people and there were various times when His power was so evident kings and nations trembled at it
Ultimately, the love of God expressed through His Son dying in our place for our sins most profoundly shows He really cares for us It’s never been forgotten! People from all nations and stations in life follow Christ There would be some throughout history who’ve not clearly heard of Adam’s Creator, but for these we trust in the demonstrated love and justice of God.
God also really cares about you, the reader His message of Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection and the door to a joyous eternity is being proclaimed to you again today Why not explore it further and receive the gift of eternal life with God.
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