Tauranga 10-year-old Nico Thomasen, pictured, has a big job behind the steering wheel next weekend.
The St Mary’s Catholic School student will team up with friend Charlie Clarke from Aquinas College, in their bid to bring home the silverware again at the Kartsport New Zealand
National School Championships in Te Puke from July 11-12.
“This [in 2024] was the first time a Bay of Plenty primary school has won it in the over 20-year history of the competition,” said Charlie’s mother, Bridget Clarke. Nico’s mum Shannon Thomasen said they
will have to remember they are still a team “and try not to take each other out ” Thomasen will also compete against Clarke in the VMR class. “They race each other hard but fair,” said Shannon Thomasen
The boys are among five competitors from Tauranga schools and 80 students from around
Aotearoa vying for each category ’ s crown in the event hosted by KartSport Bay of Plenty in conjunction with Mount Maunganui College. The competitors aged seven-17 descend on Apparelmaster Raceway on July 11, for a practice followed by racing on July 12 Read more on page 18 Photo / Brydie Thompson
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Brian has declared Christianity the “official religion of New Zealand”. That settles it then. It is enshrined. Bless! But why stop there Brian? Why not go the whole nine yards and declare there to be just one official church. And with one self-ordained, all-empowered, supreme leader We could be a theocracy by the end d of the week.
Hallelujah!
A bit of silliness after some ugliness in Auckland when 500 people marched through town burning flags and denouncing all l religions, other than Christianityy, as “evil and satanic”. Nice! Isn’t Christianity about love, forgiveneess, understanding and inclusion?
The march prompted an outpouuring
of disgust – “thuggish”, “un-Kiwi, un- Christian”, and “vile rhetoric and behaviour”, people said.
The targets of the opprobrium, Muslims, Sikhs and Buddhists were equally blunt: “despicable”, a “…racist stunt ” , they said.
S Shoulder of
lamb
Already the incident has disappeared in the fog of time. But it reminded me about, of a all things, a shoulder of lamb
It was s in a halal butcher shop in Auckland’s Sandringham – a bustling, multi-ethnic suburban enclave, wiith a richly diverse religious landscape Mostly Christian, but a good dolllop of f Muslims, Sikhs, Buddhists and others. This cauldron of colour, culture and faith, is just along the road from a 50,000seat temple, Eden Park, where faithful yell their adherence to rugby gods.
The Sandringham butcher shop’s pumping – one customer, a practising Muslim from Kuala Lumpur, now of Mt Roskill, Auckland, is curiously amused why an out-of-practice Christian drove right past a supermarket to get to a Muslim halal butcher shop?
But all this against that backdrop of gloom, intolerance, and loathing which was gathering across town. Christians were marching and foodie friend was under attack simply because his faith is not like theirs Flags of faith were torn and torched.
But back in Sandringham’s butcher shop, we were oblivious “Don’t get the leg,” I’m advised “Get the shoulder Cheaper, juicier, more flavour Slow cook it all afternoon.”
He’d borrowed a pencil from behind the butcher’s ear and was scribbling a recipe for a drop-dead, fall-apart massaman spitroasted lamb shoulder on the large sheet
For the learning, for the experience, I tell him I’m looking for something to put on the spit for dinner And halal has good rap – two billion Muslims, can ’ t be wrong He laughs, we laugh. Nothing “evil” or “satanic” in the air this morning.
My new foodie friend tells me halal meat is far more tender It’s to do with the humane treatment of the animal, he says, reduced stress hormones at slaughter Not sure how any animal can be at peace in the hands of someone with a boning knife and looking reverentially towards Mecca.
There’s banter, back slapping, balderdash. Loved it. You don’t get that over the pre-packaged cuts in the supermarket.
friend asked me. Um, no! And I’ve only just skim read the Bible. The Muslim had just read the Bible…again. Again! How many New Zealanders have read all 788,258 words of the King James version from “In the beginning …” to “…Amen”, let alone opened The Qur’an?
‘Jumpa lagi’
New Muslim friend had read the Bible three times because “there’s a lot to take in”. And living in a Christian country he felt a “responsibility” to acquaint himself with the good book
of white paper which’ll be used to wrap my meat. What’s not to like? Recipe on the back of the pack.
“And across the roadd, you u can g get all the paste and spices a at the Indian grocers. ” He even n recommended a brand of coconut t milk “that actually tasttes of coconut ”
The good boook
Across town theere ’ s paranoia and fear r brewing
The man with the mic, the protester-in-chieff, was claiming “uncontrolled immmigration” in the UK had caused spikes in crime, and a collapse in British identity And this was a march to protect “Christian values, Kiwi identity and the future of NZ”.
“Here’s the thing,” he observed, “while there are essential differences between the Bible and the Qur’an, I also found there to be many parallels. And I suppose that’s why people embrace ANY faith – to learn peace and love, understanding and tolerance, forgiveness and hope.”
All the time, across the counter, there are Halal carcasses being sawed, cut, trimmed and packed for Muslim dinner tables around Sandringham. And mine. Community was building.
I was also the interloper in this setting, I was the fair hair amongst all the lustrous black hair and beards, I was the pale-faced Anglo-Saxon amongst all the olive complexions. But it all felt just fine. And whhen thhe b butcher spotted me, he gesticulated for r his regulars to step aside so I had a path to the front of the quueue.
That afternnoon, I was sat mesmerised by a massamman Halal shoullder of lamb doing g revolutions on a s spit before falling appart on our plates I didn’t feel my “Kiwi identity colllapsiing” ” A And d if fear and loathing is the problem, perhaps massaman halal shoulder of lamb is the solution?
“Jumpa lagi”, as they say in Malaysia –“ see you again”, foodie friend.
“Have you read the Qur’an?” foodie
y y
swift action to prevent large vessels using a risky shortcut between Astrolabe Reef and Mōtītī Island to enter Tauranga Harbour
BOP regional harbourmaster Jon Jon Peters has issued a formal direction prohibiting vessels above 500 gross tonnes from transiting through a two nautical mile exclusion zone centred on co-ordinates 37°36.430’ South, 176°25.135’ East. “The direction only relates to large vessels over 500 gross tonnes and the area remains open to other vessels,” Peters said.
“Manoeuvrability of large vessels is constrained due to their size, momentum and draft and they are therefore at risk of collision or potentially running aground should they transit through this area. ”
The move follows the harbourmaster’s consultation with Maritime New Zealand and aligns with longstanding recommendations in the New Zealand Nautical Almanac, which advises avoidance of the reefisland gap for safety reasons
BOP regional councillor Stuart Crosby said the harbourmaster briefed regional councillors on May 8. “To say that the elected members were mortified that the practice was occurring after the Rena container ship grounding was an understatement ” Crosby said while the harbourmaster was engaging with Maritime NZ to get an extension, he indicated he wanted to use his independent authority to implement an exclusion zone immediately “which we fully supported him doing”. “...On the ninth of May the restriction was put in place ” Crosby, who was Tauranga Mayor in 2011 when the Rena container ship struck Astrolabe Reef, causing
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and I’m sure that most in our community – would want all possible actions to take place to prevent any other incident like the Rena grounding ever occur again”.
Peters said Land Information NZ had been informed to issue a temporary notice to mariners, while the Port of Tauranga and the masters of visiting ships have been informed of this harbourmaster direction.
“To assist with monitoring the passage of ships, an Automatic Identification System alert system has been put in place, which will provide a notification in the event of any vessel over 500 gross tonnes entering this exclusion zone, ” Peters said.
While he noted only one confirmed instance of a large commercial vessel entering the zone, he acknowledged that other transits may have occurred.
Peters said he and Maritime NZ communicated about the issue, with consideration of the risks ultimately leading to him issuing the direction.
Among those alarmed by the recent ship activity is film-maker Anton Steel, director of ‘Taking Back Our Beach’, a documentary chronicling the community’s response to the Rena disaster “When I heard that ships were again navigating between Astrolabe Reef and Mōtītī Island, I was genuinely shocked,” Steel said.
“The idea that large vessels would consider that same stretch of ocean as a shortcut is not just irresponsible – it’s disrespectful to the collective memory of this community” The process is now underway to assess whether the harbourmaster’s direction should be formalised into a navigation bylaw, giving it long-term legal standing. Visit: www.boprc.govt.nz/living-in-thebay/boating-in-the-bay/know-the-rules/
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Bay of Plenty’s harbourmaster has taken NZ’s worst maritime environmental disaster, said: “I
Rosalie Liddle Crawford
The wreck of the container ship Rena that grounded on the Astrolabe Reef in 2011
Photo / John Borren
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Illnesses rise in WBOP
Changes spark traffic concerns
A Tauranga business owner says Tauriko West Enabling works are “spreading chaos” and is concerned about future traffic congestion.
However, Tauranga City Council says the project aims to improve safety at intersections in the area.
“It’s got people’s blood boiling,” said Des Godfrey, of the recent roading changes at the roundabout near Tauranga Crossing
Patients are being asked to wait in their cars outside medical centres, due to the sharp spike in winter illnesses. Medical clinics in the Western Bay of Plenty area are experiencing a spike in people presenting with influenza and Covid-19 infections. In June, Bethlehem Family Doctors contacted patients, saying it was “seeing a significant rise in both flu and Covid-19 infections”. It asked patients to let the practice know before appointments if they had respiratory symptoms and required medical assistance, to ensure staff and patient safety “You may be asked to remain in your car until a GP can see you & mask up before coming into the building. Masks are available at the front door.”
Cocaine bricks seized
Cocaine worth an estimated $58.2 million has been found at the Port of Tauranga in a shipping container from Jamaica Customs officers based at the port seized an estimated 150kg of the Class A drug from a container destined for New Zealand. The container, which arrived from Kingston, Jamaica, was assessed as part of standard procedures for all incoming cargo, people and vessels, Customs said in a statement this week. This led to the discovery of six duffel bags packed with bricks of cocaine. The bricks were marked with an “X”, the words “good luck” and a coat of arms bearing the Latin phrase Custodi Civatatem Domine – meaning “Guard the city, O Lord”
Jaffas no more
Godfrey is the owner of Pilot Bay Properties and has a lockup on Matakokiri Drive, which he uses as an office and a storage unit.
Future developments include a new roundabout at the State Highway 29/ Redwood Lane intersection, which will connect to the Tauriko Business Estate for the expansion of Tauriko West.
Shortcut concerns
A section of SH29 between the Redwood Land intersection and Tauriko roundabout, intersecting SH29 and SH26, would become a local road, and a new SH29 would be built running parallel to be used as a bypass
Godfrey said he was concerned drivers would use Kaweroa Drive as a shortcut between State Highway 29 and State Highway 36.
“The idea is that they will eventually put a two-lane road over the Gargan Rd to cross over and go down Taurikura Drive.”
“People will divert and come down to Kaweroa Drive then the only way out is out past our front door here on Matakokiri Drive."
He anticipated traffic could become particularly bad in peak hours when people were heading to and from work and school.
“It’s going to be nose-to-tail out here. All the council is really doing is spreading the chaos ”
Tauranga City Council acting general manager for infrastructure Wally Potts said the characteristics of the SH29, Kaweroa Drive, Matakokiri Drive route –including its length, five roundabouts and 50km/h limit – made it unlikely to be an attractive shortcut for general throughtraffic and heavy vehicles.
“Some light vehicles may use it to bypass congestion on SH29,” Potts said “However, from a network operations perspective, providing alternate routes is not inherently negative, as it can reduce pressure on congested corridors.”
Potts said the council did not plan to restrict use of the road when the connection opens.
Potts said the council would monitor it and consider mitigation options if undesirable traffic patterns or safety concerns emerged
“We continue to work with the developer of the Tauriko Business Estate to facilitate future local roading connections within the industrial area, and with NZTA to deliver on the Tauriko Network Connections Programme Business Case and the Transport System Plan to ensure connections with the broader roading network.”
Joint project
These developments are part of the Tauriko West Enabling Works project, which is a joint NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi and Tauranga City Council project.
The project aimed to improve safety at intersections of SH29 with Redwood Lane, Belk Rd and Cambridge Rd, enable
housing development within Tauriko West, support further development of Tauriko Business Estate, protect freight routes and improve access to public transport.
Works at Redwood Lane represented one of four key intersection upgrades along SH29 in the project.
Crucial route
NZTA regional manager of infrastructure delivery in Waikato and the Bay of Plenty, Darryl Coalter said every day, about 21,000 vehicles travel along SH29 between Redwood Lane and Cambridge Rd, to and from other parts of the city and region
“It’s already a busy route, crucial for local communities, including residents, freight, and those travelling to and from Tauranga across the Kaimai Range.”
Potts said the completion of Kaweroa Drive by linking it to the Redwood Lane roundabout would make a direct connection into the Tauriko Business Estate.
“Its primary function is to support industrial and commercial traffic accessing businesses in the estate and to distribute traffic more evenly between SH29 and SH36.”
Iconic Kiwi lolly the Jaffa has been discontinued and will disappear from shop shelves for good. Sweetmaker RJ’s, who manufacture the orange chocolate balls, confirmed the treat has been pulled, with a company representative saying: “ we are unfortunately unable to keep making Jaffas due to declining sales”. “We know this will be disappointing news for many Kiwis and loyal Jaffas fans around New Zealand. Sadly, not been enough people buying Jaffas in recent times to support its continued ranging on shelves.”
Tauranga ram raids
Police are investigating two recent ram raids in Tauranga reportedly involving the same vehicle. A spokeswoman said police received a report of a burglary on Otumoetai Rd, between Grange Rd and Sherwood St, around 1.50am on Tuesday “A vehicle was used to gain entry to a store. The offenders have taken an unknown amount of items from the premises before fleeing the area in the vehicle.” Less than an hour before Viking Dairy was targeted, a vehicle had been used to enter BP Connect Te Puna on State Highway 2, Minden, about 1.25am, the police spokeswoman said. She said it was unknown what was taken The vehicle was later found abandoned on Pitau Rd.
Pilot Bay Properties owner Des Godfr f ey says Tauriko West Enabling works are spreading chaos. Photo / Brydie Thompson
Ayla Yeoman
Calls for lights at Fraser Street crossing
The intersection at Fraser St and Merivale Rd near the Merivale shops has been labelled dangerous by nearby residents
Peter McTavish was diagnosed with congenital cerebral palsy due to a lack of oxygen at birth, when he was born six weeks prematurely
He uses an electric wheelchair to get around and says cars often fail to stop when he tries to cross the road. “It is dangerous ”
McTavish said he had approached the Tauranga City Council to push for traffic lights to be installed.
“I just want to make my community safer,” he said
Council’s acting manager of safety and sustainability, Karen Hay, said council had received requests to improve pedestrian access along Fraser St and to install traffic signals at several intersections “Fraser St is a busy road, with around 21,000 vehicles using it daily”
She said requests had been made for traffic signals at the intersections with Landview Rd, Merivalle Rd and d Kesteven A Ave
The process from investigation to installation could take about 24 months, Hay said, and estimated costs range from $2 million to $3m, depending on the intersection’s complexity and risk
road widening, installing traffic signal hardware, upgrading street lighting, and building new footpaths and cycle lanes
more effective in this area, given the current conditions.”
During the past year, signalised pedestrian crossings had been added at the intersections at Fraser St and 13th Ave, Fraser St and 17th Ave, and near the Merivale Community Centre.
Traffic signals can improve pedestrian safety, but may also cause congestion if intersections lack room for turning lanes or waiting vehicles, Hay said “Without enough space, traffic signals could lead to long delays on Fraser St and nearby roads. Although roundabouts can also get congested, they are generally
A crossing was also added at Kesteven Ave, said Hay. “These spots were chosen because many students cross there each day”
These costs include land purchases, removing power poles and relocating underground utilities,
Te Manaaki Care Centre allows Pacific Coast Village to offer a comprehensive range of care – from independent living, serviced apartments to residential aged care Te Manaaki is a continuation of this considered design, crafted to provide residents with luxury living as well as elevated care and with it an added sense of security in their later years The Care Centre offers rest home, hospital level and dementia care.
Tom Eley
M Merivale resident Peter McTavish has approached Tauranga City Council asking to install traffic lights near the Merivale Community Centre. Photo / Brydie Thompson
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Steamers shine in Māori All Blacks squad
Five Bay of Plenty Steamers players have been selected for the Māori All Blacks, which take to the field again tomorrow, July 5, this time facing Scotland in Whangārei.
The Māori All Blacks assembled on June 23 for a two-week campaign, kicking off their tour with an emphatic 53-20 victory over the Japan XV in Tokyo on June 28.
Team captain Kurt Eklund, who also captained the Steamers in 2024, was pleased with the team ’ s performance. “The boys are very skilful and grow up playing in their backyards, so this game is second nature to them and that’s what makes this team special,” Eklund, of Ngāti Kahu, said. Born and raised in Auckland, Eklund plays
hooker for both the Steamers and the Blues in Super Rugby Pacific. He’s joined in the Māori All Blacks squad by outside back and fellow Steamers and Blues player Cole Forbes (Ngāti Awa), who hails from Pukekohe and was raised in Tauranga
Cohesion and adaptability
Also named are Steamers and Chiefs players
Benet Kumeroa and Kaleb Trask Kumeroa, a prop from Te Atihaunui a Pāpārangi, was born and raised in Auckland Trask, a first five-eighths of Ngāpuhi descent, comes from Rotorua.
Rounding out the Steamers contingent is loose forward Nikora Broughton (Ngā Rauru, Ngāti Ruanui), who was born and raised in Wellington and currently represents the Highlanders.
Māori All Blacks assistant coach Greg Feek praised the squad’s cohesion and adaptability “We’ve been pleased with how the team has come together, and that was reflected in the game against the Japan XV over the weekend,” Feek said “The boys held up well against the heat in Tokyo and adapted well tactically to the Japan XV side, particularly in that second half where the team was more direct and really played our brand of rugby” Feek highlighted the standout performances of the Bay of Plenty players
“Cole Forbes had a great game at fullback, he made good decisions under pressure and added real value on attack. Kurt led by example on and off the field, and as our captain this year, that’s all you can ask for”
Looking ahead, the Māori All Blacks host Scotland at Semenoff Stadium in Whangārei tomorrow, with kickoff at 3.35pm.
In the lead-up to the match, the team will hold a captain’s run today, July 4, at Semenoff Stadium, followed by a community signing session and tree-planting event.
Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Supporting unseen heroes in the BOP en
‘Glass children’ in the Bay of Plenty are finding a path forward with help from New Zealand’s only organisation dedicated to providing specialised support to young carers.
Unseen Heroes co-founder and managing director Te Rina RuruPelasio said ‘glass children’ is a term used for young people aged seven-24 who’ve been given the responsibility
of raising younger siblings, looking after grandparents or loved ones with disabilities, illnesses, mental illnesses or addictions “There’s more than 40,000 young carers in NZ aged 15-24,” she said. “That doesn’t include those looking after family members with addictions, mental illnesses or the grandparents or supporting younger siblings ” Young carers are called ‘glass children’ because they’re often overlooked, RuruPelasio said.
goes on the one t, but at Unseen charity sees them for the invisible heroes much, often at the own wellbeing.” look different in every many young carers, it someone else’s needs wn.
said sometimes juggling school, work, carrying the weight , worry, and ey try not to be a parents because
they know their parents are stressed looking after the other sibling, so they try to take a lot of the role on themselves. It could be managing medication, navigating health services, stepping up to look after their younger siblings – so getting them off to school, getting them home from school and helping them with their homework.”
Unseen Heroes offers a free six-month programme called Te Ara Mārama for young carers aged 12-24 feeling lost, struggling with their mental health or finding it difficult to stay in school or keep up with coursework.
“More than 80% of our kids we
worked with in the past have had suicidal ideations. A lot of them feel guilty for feeling like this, but they don’t open up or talk to anyone. ”
Lived experiences
Ruru-Pelasio, herself a former carer, has lived experiences which is why she decided to found this organisation with her co-founder who she said “is the one that helped me, saved my life”.
“My older brother sustained a severe traumatic brain injury from a car accident when I was 16 “I stepped up with my mum and my sister, and we all became
Unseen Heroes co-founder and managing director Te Rina Ruru-Pelasio.
Photo / Brydie Thompson
*Content warning: This story mentions mental health issues, being suicidal and substance abuse.
his primary caregivers. He required 24-hour care. ” Ruru-Pelasio said the role had a drastic impact on her mental health. “Over time, I became a self-harmer, I was suicidal. You wouldn’t believe it when you saw me back then because I always had a smile on my face. I was good at hiding it.”
She began to use drugs and alcohol to numb her feelings. “I didn’t want to tell anyone because I didn’t think I had any right to feel the way I felt.”
Self-love
Ruru-Pelasio said she felt guilty that she didn’t want to do it at times, she wanted to be a kid and live a normal life like her friends “I ended up spiralling ” She reached out to several counselling services but didn’t feel like they understood what she was going through. It wasn ’ t until she met Char Rain – who also came from lived experience – that she felt safe enough to open up “She helped me to develop my self-love and self-worth and gave me the tools to navigate my feelings around caring so I was still able to do it, but I
was supported while I was doing it.”
This is what the programme is all about. They go on the camp to have fun and be a kid, then once they start to become more mentally healthy, they learn to navigate stress and aspire for their futures. The annual camps – originally called Camp Unity – are available for 25 young carers. It’s a chance to meet other carers and do some adventure activities. They have weekly Zoom sessions to learn the tools
to deal with anxiety, depression and addictions and to develop self-love, self-worth and self-care. Then, the programme introduces the aspirational side of the course. “A lot of the kids are falling behind in school, constantly late to class, missing classes, they’ve got absent fees… so they tend to fall behind, and they feel like failures.
“We get our tutors to make sure they’re about to catch up on their work so that it doesn’t become a barrier to their future dreams.”
The programme also give kids the opportunity to think about their futures. “Once they get to that stage, then we ’ re able to get them in with work opportunities and work experience.”
Unseen Heroes’s Bay of Plenty camp is July 25-27 at Tui Ridge Par, Rotorua,
for children aged 13-24
Find out more, or enrol, at: www.unseenheroes.org.nz or email: info@unseenheroes.org.nz.
Where to get help:
Lifeline: Call 0800 543 354 or text 4357 (HELP) (open 24/7)
- Youthline: 0800 376 633 or text 234 - -- What’s Up: 0800 942 8787 (11am-11pm) or webchat (11am-10.30pm)
- Depression helpline: 0800 111 757 or text 4202 (open 24/7). Aoake te Rā - Free, brief therapeutic support for those bereaved by suicide Call 0800 000 053.
- Helpline: Call or text 1737. If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111. Ayla Yeoman
Amaia Rangi, 15, at a young carers ’ camp in 2024.
Photo / Supplied
Unseen Heroes co-founders Char Rain and Te Rina Ruru-Pelasio. Photo / Supplied
Opal Drive is closed to through traffic until September while two culverts are built in the Wairākei stormwater reserve, according to Tauranga City Council
In a statement council said the stormwater culverts on Opal Drive will support the existing culverts connecting both sides of Te Ara ō Wairākei – the Wairākei reserve
“They will lower flood risks in the area during heavy rainfall and allow the stream to flow more freely
“Construction of the culverts is part of the project to build a new wastewater pumpstation on Opal Drive in Pāpāmoa to replace the existing facility”
Opal Drive closed to through traffic
Construction of the wastewater mains to the new pump station on Opal Drive will coincide with work on the culverts, removing the need for a second road closure, said council
“For the duration of the closure, alternative routes for through traffic are via Topaz Drive, Domain Road and Doncaster Avenue, or Longview Drive further east ”
Residents continue to have access to their property at all times, and contractors would ensure safe pedestrian access, with limited, short diversions when required
To find out more about the project, visit: letstalk tauranga govt nz/
No place like Pāpāmoa College
The Emerald City is coming to the Bay of Plenty as Pāpāmoa College prepares to dazzle audiences with its whole-school production of ‘The Wizard of Oz’.
Set to run from July 16-20, the musical is more than just a college show – it’s a full-scale theatrical celebration powered by courage, aspiration, resilience and empowerment, said director Nicole Sarah.
Featuring 47 students on-stage, 15 backstage crew members, an army of student volunteers painting and crafting, and contributions from staff and three departments including props, animation and set design, this production exemplifies a true kura-wide effort.
Rehearsals over holidays
The cast and crew have traded in their school holidays for intensive rehearsals, tech run-throughs and fine-tuning every cue. Lighting, sound, AV, choreography, set changes and costume fittings are being refined to perfection, all thanks to the unwavering dedication of students and staff alike.
“We’ve got builders, designers, choreographers, technicians, marketers, makeup artists and even a real dog involved, all working together to make the magic happen It takes courage to perform, to lead, to take risks – and our students are rising to the challenge with aspiration and heart.”
The buzz around Oz extends far beyond the auditorium. During Term 2, classrooms became creative hubs with handcrafted props, painted sets and animated AV backdrops emerging from every corner of the school. The collaboration includes efforts from the Poutama programme, Media Studies, Senior Hard Materials, a prop-making
crew, a dance crew and set-painting volunteers, each led by a dedicated and passionate member of staff, Sarah said
Publicity efforts have also been in full swing, with radio and newspaper interviews, a community competition and stunning promotional imagery thanks to the talents of Victor Sarah.
“This production embodies everything we stand for at Pāpāmoa College: Courage. Aspiration. Resilience. Empowerment. We can ’ t wait for you to join us in Oz,” Sarah said
The production is based on the beloved MGM classic and features the original score by Harold Arlen and E.Y Harburg, with adaptations by the Royal Shakespeare Company
‘The Wizard of Oz’ is on from July 16-19 at 6.30pm, including 1pm matinees on July 19-20.
Tickets cost adults $25; student (school age): $15; family (two adults and two children): $60; under-5s are free but must sit on a guardian’s lap
A cabaret table experience add-on for $30 per person on top of the ticket price offers premium seating at exclusive cabaret tables (just 10 tables per show, six seats each), with a selection of food served before the performance, dessert served at intermission, and a more immersive theatrical experience. Cabaret seats are in high demand, so book early at: Eventbrite.co.nz
What’s possible
Sarah said this production is not just a show –it’s a testament to what’s possible when a school community dreams big and works together
“Whether you ’ re a fan of Dorothy, the Tin Man, or Toto, Pāpāmoa College invites you to follow the yellow brick road to an unforgettable theatrical adventure. See you in Oz!” Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Pāpāmoa College will dazzle audiences with its whole-school production of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ from July 16-20, 2025. Photo / Supplied
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‘Lolong’ the eel and
After months of intensive work involving 35 dump trucks, 10 bulldozers and 20 excavators shifting millions of litres of soil, the Takitimu North Link project is progressing towards more than just a transport milestone – it’s fostering a deeper environmental connection
As the 2025 planting season continues, 164,000 native plants will go into the ground, adding to the 70,000 already established In total, more than 900,000 plants will be required to restore and enhance the landscape To date, the project has clocked up more than 22 5 million hours of work, with more than 2478 people inducted to work on various elements of the build
In the midst of the heavy machinery and tight deadlines, a bit of light-heartedness has emerged
Personality in the ponds
The numerous sediment and earth bund ponds across the site have been given human names – a tradition embraced by contractors to bring a sense of familiarity and care to the work
“We give all of our ponds names, ” said NZTA project director Angela Crean
“From Andrew to Richard, Rhino to Splashy – all of them have personalities Naming them makes it easier to refer to them in day-to-day conversations than using codes like ‘SRPCH1290-MA’ ”
The project has a total of 34 ponds, including 24 Sediment Retention Ponds (SRPs) and 10
‘Lolong’ the friendly eel who joins the Takitimu North Link crew for smoko Photo / Supplied
‘Richard’ the worst-behaved pond
Decanting Earth Bunds (DEBs) In one section of the Wairoa River valley, the team named five DEBs after the Spice Girls – Baby, Ginger, Posh, Scary and Sporty.
The largest pond on-site – at 2211 cubic metres
was the first constructed and affectionately named OG, short for “Original Gangster”
The ponds play a crucial role in environmental management, capturing and treating stormwater runoff to reduce sediment entering natural
waterways, said Crean “Large rain events do put the ponds under pressure During those times, you’ll see our crew out in the rain, soaked through, walking the catchments and adjusting the ponds to ensure they’re working at peak performance ”
When asked which ponds stood out, the answer was clear: “Te Oturu is the best-behaved pond on site – and the worst? That’s definitely Richard ” Wildlife had also made itself at home among
Everything on sale before Allen shuts his shop
Piccadilly Greeting Cards owneroperator Allen Hickson has told us before that he’s closing his store in the CBD arcade But this time he means it
Hickson, who has sold “ many thousands of cards” during his tenure in the arcade from 2004 to 2022, then again from January 2023 until now, said this time the closure is permanent and unavoidable.
“I just can ’ t go on anymore; I’ve got no choice ” said Hickson with health
issues forcing him to retire from retail life in the Tauranga CBD after more than 20 years on the job
“I have enjoyed it but I’m definitely closing for good this time,” said the 82-year-old. “I’m well past retirement age and now I have to focus on my health ”
But not before he offers his loyal customers one last sale – and it’s a massive one Hickson has cut the price of all stock at Piccadilly Greeting Cards by 60% – and he plans to close up in about two weeks’ time “Everything is on special – I
mean everything!” said Hickson
So get in now to get a bargain at Piccadilly Greeting Cards – the store has a huge range of cards for all occasions
Have a fossick and you’ll find a card with exactly the right message Piccadilly Greeting Cards is open 10 30am4pm Monday to Friday in shop 6 at 3 Piccadilly Arcade, accessible from Devonport Rd and Grey St, Tauranga City. And remember to bid farewell to Tauranga’s card man! Sponsored Content
the project’s earthworks, including native eels (tuna), ducks, grey herons and many other bird species
Before decommissioning any pond, crews check carefully for aquatic life, Crean said Lolong the longfin
“In one case, we found and safely relocated 21 eels from a single pond back into the streams ”
But one eel had become more than a passing visitor, said Crean
“Our team working in Minden Gully befriended a long-finned eel back in 2022 They named him Lolong, and every day he swims up to have smoko with the boys
“It’s really great to see how much l d h h f
The longfin eel, native to New Zealand, can live for 60-80 years, and in some cases even longer It’s likely Lolong would still be gliding through the waters long after the final bridge is built and the last culvert laid
Building the future
Once complete, Stage 1 of the Takitimu North Link would be a new 6 8km, four-lane expressway between Tauranga and Te Puna, providing a much-needed alternative to State Highway 2 With 10 bridges, 19 culverts, eight stream diversions, seven wetlands and three million cubic metres of earthworks, it’s one of the region’s most significant infrastructure projects and is due for completion n 2028
Piccadilly Greeting Cards owner-operator Allen Hickson will close his sthop for good in about two weeks’ time. Photo / Brydie Thompson
‘Richard’ the Sediment Retention Pond in the Te Mete valley Despite his ‘worst behaved pond’ reputation, he’s been doing a great job lately. Photo / Supplied
Rosalie Liddle Crawford
No-Surgery Bunion Relief - Book
A non-invasive treatment is proving helpful for many bunion patients.
Bunions are a progressive deformity and if not assessed early can lead to a crooked big toe, osteoarthritis, clawed toes and pain which affects your ability to walk freely or even wear your favourite shoes.
Surgery is not the only option.
Bunion surgery involves implanting metal rods and screws to straighten the big toe joint However, surgeries often lead to complications including infection, scarring, pain and inability to walk for months Many sufferers who have had surgery notice their bunions return, and often worse than before.
A less invasive treatment can help.
My name is Shaun McCann, owner of Corrective Foot Solutions. Over the past six years since we’ve opened the doors, we’ve helped hundreds of bunion patients get rid of their bunion pain, improve toe deviation, wear more shoes and lead an active lifestyle without surgery.
We use Foot Mobilisation Therapy which is a gentle hands-on technique that corrects the cause of your bunion by working on the misalignments in the foot, as well as strengthening the weakened muscles around the joints
“I only wish I had found you sooner!”
We believe that the sooner a bunion is treated, the better the correction.
Call between 4th – 18th July 2025. and here’s what
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Moose is a snuggly boy looking for a family to love him, could you be his perfect match?
Moose and his siblings were found on the side of the road with no family in sight.
The two-month-old male pup has been having a wonderful time with an amazing foster family who are teaching h how to be a care-free puppy
H Help shape parking in the Mount
Parking in Mount Maunganui can sometimes be a mission.
That’s why Tauranga City Council is looking to create a plan that balances the needs of everyone who lives, works, plays, and visits here – and they would like your help
Occupancy hits 100% at peak times, and during peak cruise ship season, you might spend more time circling for parks than chilling at the beach.
With the warmer months ahead, council is looking to develop a plan to ensure anyone coming to the Mount can make the most of their time in the area.
TCC parking strategy manager Reece Wilkinson said while the matter had been discussed before, it was time to start fresh.
“We want to know what’s working well, what’s
not, and what ideas you ’ ve got to make it work better Whether it’s tried and tested solutions or out-of-the-box ideas, nothing is off limits as long as it’s realistic.
“We’re open to suggestions, from time limits to yellow line markings in tight streets, ” Wilkinson said “Please share whatever ideas you ’ ve got to make parking fair, accessible, and practical.”
Council is focusing on the Mount North area, from Adams Ave to Sutherland Ave, for now, said Wilkinson.
“If there are other areas in the Mount where parking is a concern for you, we ’ re still keen to hear about them too, along with any ideas you have to help us make things better”
Share your thoughts and ideas at: letstalk. tauranga.govt.nz/mountparking between June 30 and July 25, 2025.
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He loves to explore and do “zoomies” in the garden, play with his toys and get lots of pats and attention.
Moose will grow into a medium to large-sized adult dog. He’s looking for a family who will include him in family life, hang out with him, teach him new things and spoil him rotten.
If you ’ re looking for big snuggler who loves people, Moose is definitely your man!
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He is crate-trained and tooilettrained and is learning basiic obedience skills. His recall is great! Look into those gorgeous e eyes, and if you would like to meet S Sanji apply at: https://rrr.org.nz//home/ adopt-canine/
Western BOP nears regional deal
The Western Bay of Plenty is one step closer to a sought-after regional deal to help deliver 40,000 more homes and 35,000 new jobs
funding and resource opportunities to support councils making improvements in their region, such as to roading, infrastructure and the supply of quality housing
priorities that benefit the entire country
The Western Bay of Plenty sub-region submitted its proposal in February
The deal, if approved, would deliver up to 40,000 houses, facilitate 35,000 jobs and GDP growth of around 4 6% per year for the subregion
The Government signed the first memoranda of understanding to negotiate deals with Western Bay of Plenty, Auckland and Otago/ Central Lakes on Wednesday Regional and city deals enable the Government and local authorities to create long-term agreements
The programme unlocks
Western BOP Mayor James Denyer said a deal would cement the “ strong partnership” between local and central government, with a focus on
Local Government Minister Simon Watts said the three regions put together compelling proposals that reflected the Government’s and regions’ priorities through strong propositions that provided a clear pathway to getting important work done
Negotiations with the regions would now begin with the first deal agreed by the end of the year
Boosting CAB – the best investment of
This month I am handing over my column to Sam Stubbs, who is the managing director of KiwiSaver fund Simplicity.
He recently wrote his view on the value of Citizens Advice Bureau. See below New Zealand is powered by volunteers, from sports coaches to charity workers. Yet many of these essential organisations, like the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), operate on tiny budgets and are often taken for granted by government and businesses
CAB is one of New Zealand’s hero organisations. With 2000 volunteers across 80 locations, they help thousands each year – providing more than 94,000 face-to-face meetings, 110,000 phone calls, and more than 16,000 emails and online chats in 2024 alone. Many of those they assist can ’ t or won ’ t access services online, yet government agencies and banks increasingly push people
online to save costs – while quietly sending many to CAB for help
The problem? CAB is doing more with less. Their national funding was just $1.7 million in 2024 – equivalent to 30 minutes of health spending or 90 minutes of bank profits. To put it in perspective, a single $586 million Air Force plane could fund CAB for 344 years
Stubbs argues the Government could easily double CAB’s funding and still meet its broader spending goals, making a huge difference to vulnerable Kiwis The same applies to other trusted charities like Women’s Refuge, Food Banks, SPCA and Hospices.
Big businesses must also do more, with corporate giving making up only 15% of charitable donations. A target of 1% of profits would barely affect shareholders but have a massive community impact.
Properly funding volunteer-led services is one of New Zealand’s smartest social investments
Churches Active In Our Community
The winter of the soul
I’ve recently seen some pictures of Beach Rd, Pāpāmoa, covered in thick snow!
Having lived here for more than five years after moving from Palmerston North, I’m relatively new to the area Even though it can get quite cold in winter, I find it hard to believe we would experience snow in our part of paradise
The most difficult kind of winter to bear is the winter of the soul
We could find the most tropical and sunsoaked place in the world to live, but that would not go anywhere near to addressing that deep chill that comes when we face tragedy or crisis in our lives
This can range from loneliness after the death of a loved one, a serious medical diagnosis, financial hardship or the breakdown of a relationship, for example
The hardest thing about this is we can think that somehow God has left us Even Jesus, on the cross, cried out: “My God, my God why have you forsaken me?” echoing David’s cry in the Psalms
We need a way of holding on to God when it feels as if God has let go of us
Because He hasn’t – very clearly “I will never leave you, nor forsake you ” explicitly appears in 94 verses in scripture It’s a recurring theme of unwavering support throughout the Bible May you sense the overwhelming warmth of His presence during your dark night of the soul
Ralph Sutherland, Pastor, Living Well Church Papamoa
Streets in Pāpāmoa after a 2009 storm Photo / John Borren
Every 22 minutes, another New Zealander hears the devastating news that they have cancer.
In July alone, more than 2200 Kiwis will be diagnosed
That’s why we go dry in July, said Veronica Shale, who is the New Zealand campaign director for Dry July
Your mum, dad, sister, friend, colleague, aunty, uncle – every New Zealander knows someone affected by cancer, said Shale.
“This year, we ’ re asking you to show up for them and go alcohol-free for 31 days this July to raise money for life-changing
cancer care across New Zealand.
“The emotional and mental tolll of f cancer offten goes unseen, despite most New Zealanders being directly or indirectly impacted. That’s why it’s important we show up, not just in words, but in action ”
and register for them.
People can participate in Dry J Jully as i inddiviidualls or as a workplace team and seek sponsorship
Sunshine andhappiness...
“Those who bring sunshine into the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves”
- James M Barrie.
Dry July 2025 is here – and New Zealanders can still sign up and go alcohol-free for a month and raise funds to provide nonmedical support for people close to them fighting cancer
This year ’ s message from Dry July is that there’s nothing more powerful than showing up for others: think about your own personal connection to cancer
Dry July raised more than $900,000 last year, and since it launched in New Zealand in 2012, more than 61,000 people have taken part, raising more than $10 million to support cancer patients, their whānau and carers
Giving up alcohol is a small sacrifice for someone facing cancer, said Shale. “Act for your health, and theirs ”
Take up the challenge at: www.dryjuly.co.nz
Should I take Co Enzyme Q10? Part 1
Imagine trying to drive your car after someone had crimped the fuel line from your fuel tank to your engine?
One of the best ways to feel good about yourself and about your own life is to “bring sunshine into the lives of others”. That sunshine can be things like having the ability to speak with love, listen with patience and act with compassion. No matter what people tell you, words and ideas do change the world – and it is especially so when you see the best in others when they cannot see it in themselves. If you ’ re already practising this concept you will inevitably experience the same
uplifting effect in your own life – because the more you create an environment where others can be happy the greater will be your own happiness.
What do you notice about yourself when you have brought joy and hope to another’s heart?
If youd like to know more about strengthening relationships, exploring your potential and creating transformation in your life phone Mary Parker The Fast Track Coach, on 021
www.thefasttrackcoach.co nz.
The car would still run but would quickly lose power on a hill or under load. Co enzyme Q10 (CoQ10) acts like the fuel line in your car by transporting energy within cell mitochondria to make our energy
COQ10 is an essential vitamin-like substance mostly made in our liver For some people, because of age, health problems or medications can benefit from taking good quality CoQ10. But be aware that the market is flooded with low cost semisynthetic CoQ10 which is chemically different from the naturally fermented CoQ10.
The most common reason for CoQ10 supplementation is for those using cholesterol lowering (statin) medication
The side effects of statins are so common that they
are diagnosable diseases called statin myopathy and statin neuropathy The most common side effects are muscle stiffness, pain and weakness This can also cause general fatigue, which often feels like a lack of motivation Statins inhibit the enzyme needed to make cholesterol. Unfortunately, this enzyme (HMGCoA reductase) is also needed to make CoQ10. Restricting this enzyme reduces cholesterol but also CoQ10 by as much as 50%.
Drug companies are aware of this problem and hold patents for combining CoQ10 with statins. Until such drugs are available, I recommend those on statins supplement with 100mg-200mg of naturally fermented CoQ10 If people have low energgy or other health issues, I often add a mitochond includes John Ar nutrition founder o
Karters gear up for national school c
About 80 school-age kart racers, aged seven-17 from schools around the country will descend on the Western Bay of Plenty this month to vie for national titles in their respective classes
The Kartsport New Zealand National School Championships will take place at Apparelmaster Raceway in Te Puke on July 12, with a practice day on July 11.
The championship is for any national competitor who holds a tierone licence and still attends school, Kartsport Bay of Plenty president
Daniel Samuelson said
“There will be drivers from all over the country trying to take away the national title in their respective classes,” he said.
There are seven classes offered; Cadet 7-10, VMR 10-13, Juniors Rotax and DVS 13-16 and senior Rotax and DVS 16-17.
“We’re hoping for 80 competitors for the meeting split across the classes,” Samuelson said Mount Maunganui College student Kahli Samuelson will represent her school at the championship
The 14-year-old has been racing for a little more three years and will compete in the junior Rotax class.
“Personally, I like racing because it’s
champs
a very different sport to others and it is s she said.
“I am very excited for the 2025 nation school championship, especially because it is at my home track and I really enjoy the big meetings.”
Different
Nine-year-old Ōmanu Primary School student Tanner Samuelson hopes to win or get on the podium at the championships.
“I’ve been racing for just less than two years, ” Tanner said He also enjoys karting because it is diff to the other sports he plays.
so fun,”
Nico Thomasen from St Mary’s Catholic School and Charlie Clarke from Aquinas College will team up for the second year after winning the New Zealand title when representing St Mary’s Catholic School last year
VMR class – and to do so at their home track by competing against each other for the top spot in the VMR class, Nico’s mum Shannon Thomasen.
Still a team too
“They are hopeful they can bring home the silverware again,” Thomasen said
“They will have to remember they are still a team too and try not to take each other out. They are actually both exceptional racers and very respectful of one another. They race each other hard but fair,” she said
Mount Maunganui Intermediate’s Van Merrett, 11, will also compete in the VMR class with Clarke and Thomasen. Van said he is “feeling good about the championship”.
All of these karters belong to the Kartsport Bay of Plenty club
“This was the first time a Bay of Plenty primary school has won it in the over 20-year history of the competition,” said Charlie’s mother, Bridget Clarke.
“Both Charlie and Nico have been karting since a young age and are great mates but also rivals on track, , travelling g New Zealand racing g each other most weekends ” Nico, 10, and Charlie, 11, are excited to compete against each other for the top spot in the
“Kartsport BOP is a good family racing club,” Daniel Samuelson said “We have a good number of local drivers racing and in with a chance of a podium at least, if not the national title, with a lot of practice been put in over the last couple of weeks ”
Entry to watch will be free and there will be a kitchen open on the day Find out more at www kartsport org nz
Maungatapu karter Charlie Clarke, 11, enjoys a run on the track. Photo / Supplied
Tauranga karters Nico Thomasen, 10, and Van Merrett, 11, wiill compette at t the nattional l schhool l chhampiionshhip at t their home track in Te Puke. Photo / Brydie Thompson
Ayla Yeoman
Kahli Samuelson, 14, and Tanner Samuelson, 9, are ready to race. Photo / Dan Samuelson
The best of the best – so
It always comes as a jolt, realising half the year has passed
On the bright side it heralds the year ’ s first arrival of lists The ‘Best of’ lists I like lists Lists are fun Lists are meaningless. Lists are endlessly mutable, as everyone who has picked their 10 best albums can attest Lists can change after breakfast, or after hearing one song on the radio But, most of all, lists are fun There are terrific gigs next weekend –indie, country, and Irish – but first let’s look at a couple of lists Graham Reid at his excellent website Elsewhere, and Auckland music retailer Flying Out, have assembled Top 25s
A thing of beauty
Three Kiwi albums are on both: Nadia Reid’s ‘Enter Now Brightness’, a more rhythmically-driven offering from the poised writer of intelligent personal songs; Marlon Williams’ ‘Te Whare Tiwekaweka’, which despite predictable resistance from the “just sing in English” brigade, is a thing of beauty; and Reb Fountain’s ‘How Love Bends’, exploring new genre mixes and again wearing her heart on her sleeve.
There’s also one of my favourites, Tom Lark’s cheerful electro-pop offering ‘Moonlight Hotel’. Incidentally, Tom Lark is the band not a person Reid also highlights a couple of jazz releases: a rare outing from legendary multi-instrumentalist Kim Paterson, ‘Conversations’, which features Paterson along with Fender rhodes player Alex Ventling; and the latest from recent visitors to our city, Wellington trio Unwind, featuring pianist-composer Norman Meehan, saxophonist Hayden
Chisholm and bassist Paul Dyne. It is a slow meditative album, and rather lovely Before I get on to those gigs let’s rush through more: Auckland dancefloor outfit Chaos In The CBD released ‘A Deeper Life’; Ladi6’s ‘Le Va’ is popular; and there are new albums from Flying Nun’s, Voom, Arjuna Oakes, Womb, Phoebe Rings and a Dunedin-based member of the Dimmer touring band, Neive Strang.
Top Of This’ I’m slightly stuck describing them Eccentric melodic electro-folk pop perhaps? It’s strangely wonderful
Let’s close on Auckland punk band Ratso They have now left the building, after a few insane gigs, gifting the world a parting album, ‘F*** Ratso’
Strangely wonderful
Right, three gigs, all getting the Watusi Seal of Approval; two at the Jam Factory On Friday, July 11, Whanganui indie band Lake South – the name of both the band and its leader – launch a fourth album titled ‘We Lived Our Lives On
The next night there, July 12, is more straightforward Jenni Smith sings country music The 2018 Country Music Awards’ Songwriter of the Year’s new song ‘T-Shirt’ recently charted; she promises an acoustic night of originals and sing-along covers Yee, and indeed Haw
Back to July 11 there’s an immersive night of Irish music at Katikati’s Arts
Junction Sean Kelly, originally from Derry with deep Donegal roots, singer, bodhran, whistle, guitar, mandolin, and fiddle player, presents an Irish concert to a backdrop of Super 8mm movies taken by his dad, Seamus Kelly, a cine-movie enthusiast, between 1958 and 1988 He’ll be joined by Jono Lonie on fiddle, mandolin and uillean pipes Sláinte!
Glow Kids’silent disco anddance sessionsare on!
A free, fun activity on The Strand for children under14 is on this weekend and next – and you won ’ t hear a thing! In the grassed area opposite Hamilton St, Glow Kids will engage tamariki via immersive lighting, interactive dance classes and silent disco experiences. The 15-minute dance sessions are run by Precision Dance, encouraging movement and confidence. Age-appropriate content and instructors ensure a
Get your bake on!
Looking for a fun, creative way to keep the kids busy these school holidays? Bake with Me is hosting a totally free School Holiday Baking Challenge.
Join passionate teacher and baking mentor Heather Kalisch for three days of interactive bake-alongs the whole whānau can enjoy These recipes are designed so kids can take the lead in the kitchen, with just a little help from parents.
On Monday, July 7, Kalisch will bake Rice Bubble Biscuits. For Tuesday, July 8, it’s cheese puffs; and on Wednesday, July 9, she’s whipping up a triple layer brownie. Watch live or catch the replay anytime in the Facebook group!
To enter the challenge, sign up for free and instant access to an exclusive Facebook group where all the baking action takes place. You’ll receive a handy ingredients list and recipe information straight to your inbox. If you can ’ t make it live – replays are available until lunchtime Friday, July 11. Make one, or all, of the recipes and go in the draw to win one of three awesome prize packs – one for each recipe.
To enter, email: hello@bakewithme.co.nz or message via the ‘Bake with Me’ Facebook page
fun, welcoming environment. Multiple silent disco sessions will be hosted 5pm-8pm on July 4-5 and again on July 11-12 The events feature single-channel headsets and professional DJ, UV/disco lighting, and glow accessories. Each session is limited to 30 children and curated for different age groups. Supported by Tauranga City Council – simply turn up between 5pm-8pm and sign up for your boogie!
Jenni Smith. Photo / Supplied
Lake South. Photo / Supplied
Saturday 5 July
Art in the Park
Original art for sale Coronation Park, Mt Maunganui Weather permitting 9am - 5pm Tauranga Society of Artists
Association Croquet
On Sat, Mon, & Wed 9 15am for 9 30am start at Club
Mt Maunganui 45 Kawaka St Visitors & new players welcome Ph Peter 07 574 9232
Badminton
Social Badminton, Greerton Hall, Mon + Fri 10 30am – 12 30pm All Welcome Phone Lorraine 027 408 6211
Bay Singles Social Group
Join a bunch of over 50’s young singles Weekend dinners, pot-lucks, occasional outings Have a go! Ph Delia 027 284 8762 Andrea 021 133 0313
Beth-El Messianic Family
Celebrate Shabbat (Sabbath) as did Messiah Yeshua (Jesus) his disciples and early believers All welcome Lifezone -7-Oaklane-Judea-Tauranga 10am or Youtube Live @10am Joel 021 768 043 info@bethel org nz
Boules - Petanque
Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at Club Mt Maunganui Boules available New players welcome Ph Ray 027 756 3565 for times further details
Chess at Mount Maunganui
Mount Maunganui RSA Chess club, 544 Maunganui Rd, Mondays 6:15pm & 7pm onwards excl Public holidays for more info http:/www westernbopchess weeblycom/ or search “Western BOP Chess”
Indoor Bowls
Saturday, Tuesday and Wednesday 12 45 am start 50+ and over Afternoon tea is provided 14 Norris Street (behind Pak n Save) Carol 022 639 2411
Indoor Bowls
Matua Primary School Hall at 7 15pm New members welcome Come and join us for a evening of fun and bowls Phone Ken 576 6048
Laughing Yoga
We engage in simple playful excercises so that laughter becomes easy and accessible Every Saturday 10am, Arataki Community Centre Phone Jude 021 027 75901, lollaughterwellness@gmail com
Scottish Country Dance Club
Come and try Scottish Country Dancing every Monday evening 7 15-9 30pm St Johns Church Hall Bureta everyone welcome for fun and exercise ph Joy 027 285 3093
St Stephen’s Jigsaw Library
Every Saturday 10am-12noon Hire for 2 weeks a variety of 600 puzzles Cnr of Brookfield and Highmore Terrace
Tauranga Social Dance Club
Sequence Dance 2nd Sat monthly 7pm St Johns Church Hall Bureta $7 plus raffles Supper All welcome Ph Nola 027 323 2882
Tauranga Theatre Organ Society
Meet at Baycourt Theatre , Wharf Street, door please, at 1 00pm Hear and play Tauranga’s historic theatre organ All welcome Ph 552 0243
Sunday 6 July
Accordion Music Group
Every third Sunday of the month, Welcome Bay Hall, 1-4pm $4 00pp afternoon tea supplied everyone welcome to an afternoon of evergreen music Ph Joy 027 285 3093
Electronic Recycling
Electronic Recycling Give your gear a new life Fees apply Otumoetai College Car Park Windsor Rd 8 00am Brian 021 122 8735
Golf Croquet
On Sun, Tues, & Thurs 8 30am for 9am start at Club
Mt Maunganui, 45 Kawaka St Visitors & new players welcome Ph Graham 07 572 1032
Quakers in Tauranga
Explore your spiritual journey amongst supportive Friends in our mostly silent meeting Second Sunday of month 10am-12 Brain Watkins House Cameron Rd/ Elizabeth St Ph 027 458 1322
Otumoetai Rotary Carboot Sale
8 00am for buyers at Otumoetai College Car Park Windsor Road for Otumoetai Rotary Sellers $10 Details Brian 021 1228735 Bevan 027 461 2127
Radio Controlled Model Yachts
Sundays 1:00-3:30pm, at Pond behind 22 Montego Drive Papamoa, sailing Electron Radio Controlled Yachts for fun and competition Adult beginners welcome Graham 572 5419
Tauranga Model Aircraft Club
Interested in flying model planes? Join us every Sunday at TECT Park weather permitting between 10-3pm Beginners welcome Directions & webcam on our website www taurangamodelflyorg
Tauranga Organ Keyboard Society Meets at 1 30pm Carmel Country Estate Social Centre 11 Hollister Lane Ohauiti, Tauranga Play or listen to Organ, Clavinova, Piano Maureen 544 5013
Monday 7 July
500 Card Group
Every Monday (except public holidays) from 9 3011 30am, held at Age Concern, 177A Fraser Street, Tauranga $2 donation light refreshment provided - all welcome!
Greerton Garden Club
Meets every 2nd Monday of the month Feb-Nov at St James Church Hall Pooles Road Greerton at 1pm Visitors Extremely Welcome Ph 579 6003
Invitation to singing men
Harmony-A-Plenty has been singing for twenty years
We practise Monday evenings 7-9pm Ph Frank 576 3037 David 576 0578
Keep On Your Feet
Omokoroa 11am-12 Settlers Hall 334 Omokoroa Rd
Strength & Balance classes for older adults, all levels of fitness welcome Contact Sharnie on 021 111 8617
Miniatures Club Tauranga
“Making it Small” Meetings second Sunday each month [Feb-Nov] 10am to 4pm Arts and Crafts Centre 177 Elizabeth Street Tauranga Contact Jan 021 214 5192
Recycled Teenagers Gentle Exercise
St Peters church hall 15 Victoria Rd Mount
Maunganui 9 30-11am Suitable for joint replacements, arthritics, recovery from accident & illness Strength, coordination & balance Jennifer 027 206 0776
Tai Chi Practice Group
Join our friendly group Mondays 11 30am
Mount Community Hall, 345 Maunganui Road
All ages and abilities welcome Parking available
Bus stop nearby Enquires Jay 022 467 5687
Tauranga City Brass
Brass Band Practice Monday nights 7pm Till 9pm at 10
Yatton Street Greerton all Brass players and Percussion players welcome
Tauranga and District Stamp Club
Every second Monday (10am) and fourth Monday (7 30pm) of each month Wesley Hall, 100 Thirteenth
Avenue New members welcome Ross 578 8215 Jill 578 0930
Tauranga Theatre Organ Society
Meet at Baycourt Theatre at 1 00pm Hear and play
Tauranga’s historic, nearly 100 years old, theatre organ All welcome Ph 5520243
Tauranga Vision Club
Tauranga Vision Club (affiliated to Friendship NZ)
meets 4th Monday each month at Tauranga Citz Club
10 am - noon New members welcome Ph Jim 022 088 7760
Te Puke Community Menz Shed
48 Cameron Road Te Puke Mon Wed Fri
9am-12 30pm Share your skills & knowledge, learn new skills or redevelop your old skills Ph Mike Harman 027 444 8559 or Phillip Du Plooy 021 756 604
U3A Tauranga Seniors Group
We have interest groups running Mon-Fri Computing, card & board games, dining, films, history, music, photography, exercise, sciences www u3atauranga kiwi nz
Womens Art Group
We are a Womens Art group who meet every Monday 10am, 68 1st Ave to paint together in a supportive environment Beginners welcome Annie 021 186 4429
Tuesday 8 July
500 Card Club
Mount Community Hall 12 15 pm Fun and friendly group All ages all welcome Afternoon tea provided Parking available Bus stop nearby Queries to 027 658 6848
Altrusa Ladies Service Group
Come and join a group of women for community projects & social events Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays Ph Pam 027 253 7562 or visit www altrusa org nz We meet 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month
Arataki Coastal Club
Meet on 2nd Tuesday of the month 9 30am Arataki Community Centre for friendship, morning tea, guest speaker, dining, outings etc Contact Robyn 572 2908, Bev 575 3348
Body+Soul for 50+ Fun Fitness for men and women Exercise for better health, strength and balance to great music Tauranga
Senior Citizens hall Norris St Ph Dianne 027 431 4326
Cherrywood Probus
Meet every 2nd Tuesday of Month @ Citizens Club 13th Ave 10 00am Come along for Fun Fellowship And Friendship Visitors very welcome Pam 578 3757
Christian Meditators
We invite you to join our small friendly group of Christian meditators for weekly meditation on Tuesday evenings To join or for more information, contact Paula 027 576 5235
Coffee/Conversation Group Te Puke
Age Concern Tauranga holds a friendly Coffee and Conversation Group, Te Puke Citizens RSA, 179 Jellicoe Street, 10am – 11 30, cost $5pp All Welcome
Free Public Advocacy Service
Need help completing a form? Accompany you to an appointment? Talk to an agency? Come speak to an Advocate! Every Tuesday, Greerton Library, 1-2:30pm
Greerton Indoor Bowling Club
Club Night, Greerton Senior Citizens Hall, Maitland Street New Members welcome Coaching available
Phone Sally 021 172 6004
Greerton Walking Group
Meet outside Greerton Library at 9am for a gentle, local walk with a friendly crowd followed by a cafe visit All welcome
Contact Mike 021 180 7429
Inachord Singers Tauranga
Women’s Chorus Join us with our new Musical
Director Dan Ireremia 7pm Bethlehem Community Church 183 Moffat Road Contact: Julie 021 0252 6805 or Sabine 021 111 8659
Keep On Your Feet
Katikati Community Centre, 45 Beach Road, 11am-12
Strength & balance classes for older adults all levels of fitness welcome Contact Sharnie 021 111 8617
Let’s Learn Something New An A-Z of Clubs Courses & Classes happening now Find an activity, join, & do it! All ages www letslearn co nz or ph 07 578 9416
Migrant Seniors Morning Tea 10am - 12pm, Multicultural Tauranga, complex 1 Historic Village 17th Avenue To register/more information ph 07 571 6419 or email enquiries@trmc co nz
Olympic Style Rifle Shooting
Every Tuesday evening at 7 00pm at the Tauranga Target Rifle Club’s range, 165 Elizabeth Street, opposite Tyre master Public welcome All gear and coaching provided
Petanque @ Bayfair Reserve
Play social petanque at Bayfair Reserve, Russley Dr 12 45 to 2 30pm Tues and Thurs Friendly club all welcome Boules available Call 021 158 0129 for details
Science fiction coffee club
Enthusiasts of science fiction or emerging technologies including AI, electro magnetic frequencies, humanities futuristic future Meet like minded people over a coffee and chat Phone Dan 022 462 3316
Tauranga Embroiderers Guild
Meets Tuesdays @ Bowls Tauranga South 15 Tutchen St (off 11th Ave) 10am - 2 30pm
Everyone welcome Contact Linda 027 369 0984 or taurangaembroiderersguild@gmail com
Tauranga Patchwork & Quilters
Every 1st & 3rd Tuesday at 7pm and 2nd & 4th Friday at 10am Tauranga Art & Craft Centre, 177 Elizabeth St Contact: taurangaquilters@gmail com
Tauranga Model Railway Club
Club meets Tuesday 9 30am & Thursday 7 30pm corner
Mirrielees & Cross roads Sulphur Point Ph Mike 021 939 233
Tauranga Scrabble Club
Tuesday Scrabble Meet weekly for friendly & competitive games at Tauranga Citizens Club 9 30am12 45pm Ph Fay 021 1648180
Te Puna Quarry Park
Many tasks for active volunteers in a friendly team environment 8:30am-noon each week Contact Jennifer 021 132 9585 or email tepunaquarrypark@gmail com
Yoga, Private Classes
Feel uncomfortable in a group setting? Or have special needs? I can design a class to specifically suit your needs/capabilities Contact Asunta 021 061 4394 or yogaindailylife@pl net
Wednesday 9 July
10 Pin Bowling
1pm at 10 Pin Tauranga 135 Thirteenth Ave Mixed group play for fun but keep the score Very occasionally competitive Ph Glenda 021 257 8678
Age Concern Walking Group
A friendly weekly walking group for all ages and all fitness levels 10am start, meet at End of Sterling Gate Drive, Bethlehem
Beginner Social Ballroom/Latin Group
Starts 12 February 6pm-7pm, Welcome Bay School
Hall Just come along on the night to enrol More details please ring Sonia 027 322 1786
Body+Soul 50+Fun Fitness
For better health strength and balance to great music
Men and women welcome, make new friends 9 15am
Bethlehem hall opposite Woolworths Ph Dianne 027 431 4326
Bolivia Te Puke
Every Wednesday Lyceum Club 8 Palmer Place 1pm4pm beginners welcome Come and join our friendly group Ph Brenda 027 229 6992
Cards - cribbage
You are very welcome to join our friendly group every Wednesday 12 30 for 1pm start at RSA rooms Cameron Rd Greerton Jill 021 160 6143
Coffee/Conversation Group - Brookfield
Age Concern Tauranga holds a friendly Coffee and Conversation Group at St Stephens Church, 9 Brookfield Terrace, 10 30am - 12noon, cost $5pp All Welcome
Improve Strength & Balance
Steady as you go (saygo) Exercise programme keeps you mobile Friendly group 2-3pm Wednesdays at St Johns Church Hall, Burtea Road Phone Angela 576 9847
Marching For Leisure
A non-competitive activity for mature ladies Fun, fitness and friendship For Tauranga team ’ s practice and contact details call Glenice Dando 0274898841
Newcomers Coffee Meetup Group
Have you just moved to Tauranga? Come along to meet other like-minded people and make new connections For more information email enquiries@trmc co nzor phone 07 571 6419
Omanu Rebus Club
Join our monthly meeting, 9 30am at Mt Maunganui RSA Enjoy complimentary morning tea,guest speaker, raffles other activities for Older Adults Ph Margaret 07 542 0548
Seniors Fitness Greenwood Park Join us Wednesdays 9 15am for fun fitness to music Improve strength & balance & gain more confidence Open to public also Ph 022 340 6219
Tauranga Embroiderers Guild Meets Wednesdays 7-9pm Everyone welcome For venue confirmation please contact Linda 027 369 0984 or taurangaembroiderersguild@gmail com
Tauranga Midweek Tramping Group Wairongomai Buck Road Quartzville Lower Stope
1263
Keynotes Women’s Barbershop Chorus Love to sing, come along and enjoy the fun and friendship, all ages welcome 7 00pm Wesley Hall, 100 13th Avenue Bernice 07576 4848 Catherine 027 540 0036
Mt Maunganui Creative Fibre Every Thursday 9 30am - 12 30pm St Andrews Presbyterian Church, Dee St Mt Maunganui Spinning, knitting, weaving felting crochet etc all fibrecrafts Very friendly group
Serenata Singers Join our friendly welcoming group Thursdays 1011 30, Methodist Church Hall, 2 Oroua Street,
