The Weekend Sun - 31 October 2025 by Sun Media

Pug pens school story

Travel back in time and learn about Greerton Village School’s history and values with their resident furry friend and hero of their new school book ‘Connections’

Not be mistaken for a knight, five-yearold male pug Sir Douglas goes on a quest to find the old school bell in the new

book A group of Year 5-6 students came up with the storyline and words – and making the main character Sir Douglas –after being inspired by a large old bell that still stands at the front of the school

Teacher in charge Sharyn Jones put their words to paper, and the book was published this month

She described Sir Douglas as a “little scavenger ” who begs for scraps around the staff room

It should come as no surprise Sir Douglas – owned by principal Kimberley Henderson-Ginns – stops for a few snacks along his time-travelling journey Greerton Village School students

‘Connections’

Learn more about Sir Douglas and the school’s new book on page 4

Bethany Hansen, 11, and Vienne Uytingco, 10, (pictured) were joined by Hannah Hodgkinson, 11, and Leo Miettinen-Armitage, 11, as authors of

Photo / Brydie Thompson

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A damned good venting

As WC Fields – William Claude Dukenfield – wisely suggested: “Start every day with a smile and get it over and done with”.

And being a like-minded, dusty, irascible, old fart, we ’ re going to see off the short, post-holiday week with a cluster of complaints, a miscellany of moans Revel in some grumping with me It’s purging – it’s good for you

Like finding a home for the homeless and grotesque scrap metal dragon statue plonked on a street plot in Mount Maunganui’s Pilot Bay Elsewhere would be good, anywhere else except here: Taihape, Bulls, Bluff Why did anyone think a dragon sculpture was a good idea?

Dragons are intrinsically not nice –mythical monsters, lizards on steroids, fire breathing, scaly and symbolising evil So it’s not a piece of art that makes me stop and reflect, mull its artistic virtue It does make me stop and want it gone

Like the dragon which terrorised the fabled town of Silene – it demanded a sacrifice every day Sheep, townsfolk, even a Princess – it was big on meat Then St George stepped up and turned the dragon into a kebab with his lance, before dragging it into the town square and beheading it with his sword St George was as big on theatre as the dragon was b

Let’s follow St George

So instead of a competition to find an appropriate name for Mount Maunganui’s monstrosity, perhaps we should follow St George’s heroic example by vanquishing the dragon? Heave it into the shipping lane so the tides can wash it away to the notorious maritime scrap metal yard of Astrolab Reef It should feel included out there

Then they could call the dragon ‘Rusty’ or ‘Dra-gone’ Or they could wheel the ‘taniwha’ into the dankness and darkness of one of those caves on Mount Drury Isn’t that where dragons are supposed to live? It was intended as a surprise public gift ‘ d

in South Africa’ taniwha to protect our

waterways I was unaware the Transvaal Republic featured in Māori legend And anyway, I pay the regional council the excessive sum of $700 a year to protect our waterways The taniwha can stand down

Of course art is in the eye of the beholder – there isn’t a universal standard for what makes art good, beautiful or ugly It’s all subjective, determined by individual taste, experience and perspective So, it’s okay that I don’t like the dragon And I suppose the dragon is fine as long as it doesn’t come across the bridge to the mainland

My angel

Then this bit of mischief I get an invoice, a 2025 ACC levy for my ‘Self-Employed Cover’ Yep, ACC is concerned about the daily hazards I face in banging out a few words on Page 2, and it suggested $423 96 should cover any misadventures that may befall me parked at a desk, staring at two computer screens and thumping a keyboard for a couple of hours What can possibly go wrong? What hazards do I face? I break a nail bashing the space bar? I accidently poke myself in the eye sharpening an office supplied Staedtler HB pencil? Lead poisoning from sucking said pencil? I might nod off and drown myself in a days-old cup of cold coffee sitting on my desk I might get stabbed with a BIC Wite-out for using inappropriate language like “ crap ” , split infinitives, wrong punctuation, or misusing “affect/effect”

kindly on me So comforting I nearly rounded up my $423 96 bill to the nearest dollar Nearly!

Then the perennial irritant – what time of the year is it immoral to turn the Christmas lights on? An American cable network was howling “shame” this week because retailers were brazenly offering deals to drive Christmas sales a whole two months out from the big day They hadn’t even finished bleeding people for Halloween

NZ’s Terracotta Army

We lack a respect for the spirit of Christmas here in New Zealand too “This made my PayWave chill!” my friend told me, and she knows what’s right and proper She thought she had encountered an exhibition of the Chinese clay soldiers, The Terracotta Army – albeit a chocolate army at the supermarket Hordes, battalions of chocolate Santas, looking curiously like the Terracotta Army, all lined up above the chicken tenderloins in the store ’ s freezers “Without the style of the soldiers and certainly no understanding of the financial hardship people are experiencing,” she moaned “Two months out from Christmas For heaven’s sake Vulgar and crass, and rampant commercial exploitation of a holy time ”

Do you think retailers will listen?

“Hark the herald angels sing, Splash your cash, Ka-ching, ka-ching, ka-ching!” Easter eggs should be on the shelves soon – a ‘Made

Mind you it is more than 10 paces to the ‘Boys’ Room’ – and for an older ‘boy’ that trip can be an accident waiting to happen if you miscalculate the travel time and embarrass yourself Anyhow it’s comforting to know the ACC angels are looking down

And then the Christmas carols on loop –sorting a good deal on dunny paper while listening to ‘Snoopy’s Christmas’ yet again, yet again, yet again, is sure to suck you dry of any yuletide spirit

The Bay of Plenty community has literally stepped up to support a local charity by raising in excess of $80,000 via a walking fundraiser campaign this month.

Good Neighbour called on the community to participate in The Good Walk in October – which was a 30 Laps in 30 Days Challenge, where every step helped fund food rescue, youth mentoring, backyard projects and more. “Hundreds of walkers from across Tauranga and the Western BOP laced up their shoes for the 30 Laps in 30 Days Challenge, all to support Good Neighbour and the life-changing work it does in our community,” said Good Neighbour

general manager Renee Hanna She estimated the charity was on track to receive in excess of $80,000 from the month-long fundraiser “The results speak for themselves Thanks to incredible community spirit and generosity, so far $40,000 has been raised by the public, which will be matched dollar-for-dollar by our match funders: Carmel Country Estate, HOBEC, One NZ, and BOP Foodstuffs. This will bring the total impact to at least an amazing $80,000!”

Hanna said every walker, donor and supporter had helped create a lasting impact for people and families across Tauranga. We’re so thankful for this community and how it continues to show up for one another” Funds raised would help Good Neighbour continue to transform

tomorrow, November 1, from 10am at the base of Mount Maunganui with free food, giveaways, live entertainment, sandcastle competitions.

“It’s a family-friendly event to honour your hard work

lives through its food rescue, community meals, backyard projects, support into employment, youth mentoring, tailored practical support for whanau and collaborative partnerships that make Tauranga a more connected, compassionate, and resilient place to live, said Hanna “With these collective efforts, Good Neighbour supports on average 7200 people in Western BOP and Tauranga every week TThe end result is that for every $1 donated to Good Neighbour produces $4.50 of social impact in our city”

Hanna said businesses had also stepped up in a big way with many not only donating to the fundraiser but joining the challenge by rallying staff to walk and give back Good Neighbour is hosting a final walk party to wrap up the month,

and celebrate the collective impact we've made. Everyone is welcome!”

Hanna said there was still time left to donate to the Good Walk – go online to: www goodneighbour.co.nz

Good Neighbour food rescue coordinator Fleur Bos, supporter Stephen Thomas and Good Neighbour general manager Renee Hanna are stoked the Good Walk has raised in excess of $80,000 for the charity Photo / Brydie Thompson

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Teacher Sharyn Jones, students Bethany Hansen 11, Vienne Uytingco 10, Hannah Hodgkinson 11, Leo Miettinen-Armitage 11, and Sir Douglas Photo

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Danny thought his active days were behind him. Retired from farming due to dodgy knees and hips, he’d been watching his wife handle the calves and drive the tractor.

“Great woman, ” he says with a grin. Then the incident ‘that October’ happened.

“I fell off my chair while she was docking lambs and broke my arm, ” Danny recalls. “Couldn’t even hold a bottle of draught, let alone get the top off.”

His wife’s response? “She couldn’t stop laughing.”

When the cast finally came off, Danny’s arm was weaker than before.

He began searching for something to help online. That’s when he discovered Koru FX, a natural New Zealand-made cream that’s gained a following among active Kiwis.

What happened next has become legend at Danny’s local golf club - just like Danny himself

“My golf handicap improved by four strokes in the first week,” Danny says, still amazed. “Never been around in under 100, and suddenly here I am getting pars and birdies. Everyone at the club thought I was on something illegal!”

The improvement wasn ’ t just about golf scores. Danny found his confidence returning with each swing. The natural cream, containing arnica, mānuka and other botanical oils, had given him the support he needed to play without hesitation. Word spread through the clubhouse. An

elderly couple who typically needed two days to complete nine holes approached Danny about his secret.

After trying the cream, Danny claims “they’re now cycling the trails twice a week – impressive for a pair of 80-year-olds.”

His enthusiasm even extended to the local priest, pulling Danny into the confessional with an unusual request.

“He tells me his elbow was sore from ‘dishing out communion and shaking hands with parishioners’,” Danny roared.

“He’d heard I had some magic potion ”

Danny gave his blessing along with two bottles of Koru FX The result? “The fella beat me at golf on Saturday”

Now back from an extended hunting and fishing trip (“Couldn’t do that before” he

A pug with a big appetite has made Greerton Village School’s values jump from the page in a new book created by a teacher and students.

Sir Douglas – Greerton Village School’s furry resident, owned by principal Kimberley Henderson-Ginns – had become the main character in the book titled ‘Connections’, which was published this month.

When teacher Sharyn Jones decided to create a book with the school’s “values woven through it”, her students came up with the storyline: Sir Douglas travels back in time to find the old school bell.

Work began at the start of this school year, with the book printed mid-October Jones described the five-year-old male pug as a “little scavenger”, making him the perfect muse for a quest narrative. He hangs out with 'mum' in her office but accompanies her on morning tea and lunch walks

claims), Danny’s discovered what thousands of other New Zealanders have found – that natural support can make a real difference to staying active.

“It’s not about being Superman,” Danny reflects. “It’s about getting back to doing what you love. Whether that’s helping on the farm, breaking par, or just opening your own beer again ”

His wife, still amused by the whole saga, and even more so at Danny’s interview, has suggested they could “sell a truck load” given how popular it’s become at the golf club But Danny’s more focused on his next round.

“Life’s too short to watch from the sidelines,” he says with a grin

Jones mentioned an instance in which a student had a seizure, and Sir Douglas stayed by the student’s side. “He has a bit of a way with kids,” Jones said.

But he also gets up to mischief, begging for scraps around the staff room. As a result, Sir Douglas was put on a diet and had lost 5.5kg. Jones said students were taught the history of the land and the school, which they incorporated into the book. In particular they were inspired by the large old bell that still stands at the front of the school.

She led the writing process but used the students’ words and storyline. Year 5 student Vienne Uytingco joined Year 6 students Bethany Hansen, Hannah Hodgkinson, and Leo Miettinen-Armitage as authors of ‘Connections’. Taylor’s Transport Trucking sponsored the production costs, and Kale Print brought the story to life with their ink and paper Purchase a copy of 'Connections' for $10 at the school office. The Weekend

Retired farmer’s legendary comeback

/ Brydie Thompson

Bijou Johnson

Prevent pests arriving in BOP waters

This summer boating season Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s biosecurity team says keeping the region’s marine and freshwater environments pestfree needs to be a priority for all.

While not detected in the Bay of Plenty, exotic caulerpa had been found at multiple locations around the top of the North Island and was now present in the Coromandel since its initial discovery at Aotea Great Barrier Island four years ago, said the council in a statement.

Exotic seaweed Caulerpa

BOPRC biosecurity team leader Hamish Lass said the message to all boaties –particularly those heading outside of the region this summer – is clear: Don’t be the person who accidently brings Caulerpa

back to the Bay of Plenty

“If you do find any type of seaweed on your anchor, chain or gear, remove it, bag it and then bin it back on shore We’re also asking people who are staying in the BOP to keep an eye out for Caulerpa,” said Lass

“The quicker any infestation is found, the greater the chances are that we can control it If you do find something that looks suspicious, don’t touch it or move it, but take a photo if you can, record your location and report it to 0800 80 99 66 or report mpi govt nz ”

Freshwater clam Corbicula

Meanwhile, the presence of the highly invasive freshwater clam Corbicula in the Waikato River also highlighted the need for everyone to ensure their gear, vessel

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and trailer is free from freshwater pests, said council It advised boaties to keep check, clean and dry their equipment every time they move between waterways BOPRC biosecurity officer Te Wakaunua Te Kurapa said preventing the spread of the clam was everyone ’ s responsibility “The clam can spread quickly, producing up to 70,000 juveniles each year Anyone enjoying any of the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes boat ramps must follow the rules and complete the self-certification form every time they use a boat ramp, ” said Te Kurapa

“It doesn’t matter if you have last been out at sea, haven’t been out for months

or only ever use one waterway, everyone needs to be thorough in how they clean the boat, trailer, and gear, and certify that they have done the right thing ”

More information

With more boaties starting to head out on the water as the weather warms up, authorised biosecurity officers will be upping the frequency of self-certification compliance checks at the lake’s boat ramps

For further information, visit: www boprc govt nz/environment/pests/aquaticpests/corbicula/ and: www boprc govt nz/environment/pests/ marine-pests/caulerpa

Chronic Hives Clinical Research Study

Do you suffer from chronic hives that have no speciﬁc cause or trigger? This study is investigating a potential new treatment that aims to reduce symptoms and make life more comfortable

You may be eligible to join this study if you:

• Are 18 years or older

• Have had recurrent hives (urticaria) that last for 6 weeks or longer Are taking a regular dose of antihistamines

Participants will be compensated for time and travel

Exotic caulerpa spreads rapidly and will grow anywhere from below the tideline to 46m deep. Photo / Niwa

Bay surfers chase glory in Gisborne

The Bay Boardriders surfing team is competing this weekend in Gisborne for the surfing equivalent of rugby’s Ranfurly Shield.

The 22 Bay of Plenty surfers will compete for the first-ever Sunshine Shield against the East Coast Boardriders – something Bay Boardriders president James Jacobs said was a long time coming.

“We currently hold every national club title in New Zealand – the NZ primary schools trophy, NZ Scholastics

trophy (secondary school), and the NZ Club Championship trophy”

On November 1, the waves of Te Tai Rāwhiti, Gisborne, and the East Coast Surfriders, will host the inaugural Sunshine Shield

Solid team

Jacobs said the BOP team, which would comepte in under12s to over-50s categories, would have a ‘UFC style’ weigh-in tonight before hitting the water to compete 8.30am tomorrow morning, November 1. The shield winner would be crowned on that evening, said Jacobs

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“We’re taking a solid well rounded team with our own legends of 22 surfers to challenge the East – a club rich in heritage and home to some of Aotearoa’s most iconic surfers, the likes of Maz, Jay and Holly Quin, many rising from the ashes for this occasion ”

With 20 surfers per club, spanning under-14s to over-50s, male and female, the format would include individual age divisions and tag team events, Jacobs said.

“The club’s over-40s and over-50s divisions are just as excited, if not more, than the groms. ”

Bay Boarder Darren Kiwi, who’d been surfing for 35 years, was looking to competing in the over-50s category

The 54-year-old was confident the

team would bring home the Sunshine Shield, saying the team had gone from strength to strength since he started in the 1980s, when the team was called Bay Surfers.

“I believe we ’ re in a good position to take the trophy It’s because we ’ ve got a really strong family-oriented culture.”

An inspiration

Kiwi said being one of the two over-50s team members meant he felt like a mentor, supporting and passing along their experience to the younger team members.

“There are so many good young surfers coming through with enthusiasm to compete on a local, national and international level. It’s such an inspiration.”

Mount Maunganui Primary student and Bay Boardrider, Arlo Scorringe, said he was feeling “ super excited to go and compete against some of the greatest surfer in New Zealand”.

The 11-year-old started surfing at the age of three and fell instantly in love with the sport, going out to surf all the time – rain or shine.

He looked up to the older Bay Boardriders, saying he often got tips from one of the team ’ s open men ’ s surfers, Kehu Butler

Grassroots club surfing

Jacobs said the first-ever Sunshine Shield was a “ pure grassroots club surfing”. “This event is also a celebration of surfing, connections, friendships across all ages, including some lifetime rivalries.”

Sanga ‘Sam Willis’, pictured, will surf in the over-40s category. Photo / Cory Scott

Ayla Yeoman

Students go vintage

Mount Maunganui College students

are learning the old school way of recording music as they prepare to release this year ’ s annual album

The 32 Year 9-13 students have been learning how to record their music straight onto a cassette tape to be released, as well as on streaming platforms

15 original songs

The “vintage” style album titled ‘2025’ consists of 15 original songs and will be released on December 5 on streaming services and December 11 on cassette tape with a release gig to celebrate.

It showcases songs from school bands and artists: Three Man Tent, Kenzie, Sketch, Spud, Asylian, Deffex, Stella Grace, Kymira, Zahra Panapa and Conor Tonor, Brooke Baldwin, Olivia Kelly and Amelia Stoutenburg, Evangeline Pitts and Julia Kim, Josh Bisley, Mars Rover, and Ari and Kieran

Mount Maunganui College head of the music department, Tia Beaufort, said the school had been releasing albums annually since 2020 “Each year, our top music students are chosen to contribute to an original school album ”

From the writing of the music, which started at the beginning of the year, to the recording, editing, mixing, and mastering, the album had progressed through each stage to become the final product

The album was recorded outside of class time, “whenever there was a spare moment ”

It only took a few takes to record each artist

Mix of genres

The album consists of a mix of genres from rock to metal, pop, singer-songwriter and funk

The school’s Spotify account has about 7850 monthly listeners and 364 followers, and Beaufort believed the account had received more than 100,000 listens during the past five years

Beaufort had been involved in the annual project since its inception in 2020, following an approach by school principal Alastair Sinton who thought it would be a good idea to record some of the school’s talented musicians

Some students have built their careers from the project, such as touring artist Frankie Venter and band Park Flyers

‘Best one yet’

Since then, Beaufort had been working closely with the featured artists to create an album each year

He initially gained his experience in the field working as the music producer and drummer for Auckland rapper JessB, touring internationally as a professional drummer, playing at Eden Park, and he is due to go on tour in Australia next month with artist Who Shot Scott

Beaufort said this year ’ s album was the best one yet “I wanted to give a shout out to the students involved, they’ve been really awesome and have done a great job ”

Ayla Yeoman

Modelrailway’s AnnualOpenWeekend

Tauranga Model Marine and Engineering Club (TMMEC) is hosting its Annual Open Weekend at Tauranga City’s Memorial Park Railway on November 8-9, and invites the community along “This is when we invite other clubs to join us, and show the public what the hobby is all about There will be additional working locomotives and engines in steam to add to the fascination,” said TMMEC secretary Warren Karlsson “Saturday November 8 is the display day but trains will be operating on November 8-9 for public rides, thus Sunday will be our regular running day albeit with extra locomotives in use ” There would be a display of model

engineering where TMMEC Club members would show their individual skills in displaying their intricately crafted working models

“Some are a work in progress while others are fully functional and working There will be additional steam-powered locomotives that will pull passengers alongside our own club engines

“Come and see the results of many long hours of workshopping, and burning the midnight oil as individuals create models that are a testament to the skills needed to shape metal into objects of marvel, from times past but not forgotten ” Keep up to date on the TMMEC Facebook page at: https://www facebook com/memorialparkrailway”

Varicose Veins Troubling You?

There are myriad symptoms, which may indicate you have varicose veins.

Heavy, tired, often achy or restless legs are common symptoms along with leg cramps, swollen legs, itchy skin or dermatitis, poor skin healing and leg ulcers.

If you suffer from any of these symptoms - it could be well worth considering a consultation with a vein specialist

Dr Phoebe Shearman has recently returned to the Bay of Plenty following further specialist training in Auckland and is dedicated to delivering effective, minimally invasive treatments for varicose veins.

Dual-trained in Phlebology and General Practice, Dr Shearman is passionate about providing patient-focused, comprehensive care for varicose veins and chronic venous disease and offers Endovenous Ablation (RFA) and Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy

Both are non-surgical treatments that are walk in and walk out treatments, requiring no general anaesthesia and minimal down time

The Mount Maunganui College music students involved in the 2025 album: Back row: Charlie Gilmore, 14, Tyler Ormsby, 16, Bryn Lloyd, 14, Mackenzie Petitpas, 14, with a microphone Front row: Music teacher Tia Beaufort, Lennox Lloyd, 16, and Stella Dixon 15. Photo / Brydie Thompson

More than $10K o

It’s time to cast your line for a great cause – and maybe reel in a big win!

Coastguard Tauranga is hosting its annual fishing competition next

month with more than $10,000 in prizes, raffles and auctions up for grabs.

The event from November 21-23 promises plenty of excitement for anglers of all

CAB Tauranga in collabora on with Bay Financial Mentors has added another clinic to its growing list of services:

There will now be weekly ﬁnancial mentoring sessions which will add to their other services, which are:

• a help desk (9am-4pm weekdays) oﬀering face-to-face; phone, email or social media contact

• 2 employment advocates

• a free fortnightly immigra on clinic

• a direct line to immigra on

• 2 free weekly legal clinics

Annually CAB Tauranga assists with circa 6,700 community queries

• a free weekly employment clinic and over the phone assistance 5 days per week

• a language assistance service

• 6 outreach clinics

• 3 JP clinics weekly

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of prizes in fishing competition

ages, said organiser Mac O’Brien. “We have caps, coolers, a kayak, fishing rods, trellis kits, tackle bags and even a Mercury 3.3 outboard motor from The Boat Place. There are also fantastic prizes from Stoney Creek Outdoors, who’ve generously supplied prizes for all divisions, as well as from Hunting and Fishing, Burnsco and Smart Marine.”

The prize pool doesn’t stop there –entries are also in to win tackle, chilly bins, homeware items, outboard motor servicing from Master Tech Marine, an open-water dive course from Dive Zone Tauranga, a $600 voucher from Hutcheson Boat Builders for remedial work, a Polynesian Spa package, fuel vouchers from GoFuel and Coromandel resort accommodation.

First, second and third prizes will be awarded for the longest fish caught

– in snapper, kingfish and kahawai divisions.

“We’re using rollout rulers so anglers can catch, measure and release their fish,” said O’Brien.

“Each participant gets an angler number and submits a photo for the leaderboard. There’s no weigh station – you can release your fish or keep it; it’s optional.”

Entry fees are $50 for adults and $25 for juniors, with a free entry pack for the first 50 skippers to sign up Entries close at 6.30pm on Friday, November 21

O’Brien said the goal is to raise around $20,000 for Coastguard Tauranga.

“We’ve already raised about $7500 in sponsorship so far, thanks to Port of Tauranga and many other silver sponsors. This is our third year – the first year we raised about $10,500

with 125 anglers, and last year we only had about 100 anglers. We’re really pushing to get 250 anglers involved this year, ” he said.

Anglers including kids can fish from boats, kayaks, jet skis or even off the wharf – and yes, drone fishing is allowed. “The rule is that you catch it on a line,” O’Brien said.

“We have great sponsorship and lots of prizes and we need people to come and fish.”

A competition briefing will be held at Tauranga Sports Fishing Club at 6.30pm Friday, November 21, with fishing starting immediately after and continuing until 3pm Sunday, November 23 The prizegiving ceremony will take place at the same venue that evening at 6.30pm. For more information or to enter, visit: www.tsfc.co.nz or call 07 578 6203

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Tauranga Coastguard radio operator Mac O’Brien with Coastguard skipper Scotty Lee. Photo / Brydie Thompson

Rosalie Liddle Crawford

Boats, excavators, bulldozers –Tauranga’s Brenton Page spends his days servicing all manner of big machines working for Caterpillar dealership Terra Cat.

Now the heavy diesel field service technician’s talents are taking him overseas

not for a new job, but to compete against some of the best in his business Page flew out yesterday to represent New Zealand at the semi-finals of the Caterpillar Global Dealer Technician Challenge in Málaga, Spain, on November 3-7.

Troubleshooting faults

Page finished on the podium at the AsiaPacific qualifier in Melbourne, when he went up against nine of the best Caterpillar technicians in the region His third placing earned him a spot in the next round of the multi-year, worldwide competition.

Page earned his spot on the national team after entering an internal competition between technicians at Caterpillar, a global manufacturer of construction, mining and other engineering equipment Competitors faces a set of challenges involving troubleshooting machinery faults

“They put in real-life active faults to simulate a real troubleshooting issue and then we’ll watch and monitor as each technician has a set amount of time to diagnose them ”

Loves his job

Page has worked as a heavy diesel field service technician for 11 years and said he loves his job

“Every day is different One day I could be working on a boat and the next day I could be out in the bush working on an excavator or a bulldozer “There’s always new equipment, machines, and

Brenton takes on world’s best

faults Every single day involves learning something new

“I enjoy the challenge Every job has its reward The main one for me is to get the guy back up and running.”

Page entered the industry as an apprentice at a trucking company His father was a truck driver, so he’d always been around trucks and machines, but he didn’t want to go into driving

Out of the machinery he worked on, the construction gear was his favourite He said this was because the marine work involved a lot of cleaning, and the forestry work was isolating

Participating in the international competition would open up a lot of doors for Page to progress in his career

It would also be his first time travelling overseas further than Australia, which he was excited to do with his wife, who would be supporting him on the sidelines

Nervous but excited

He felt nervous going into the competition, as it would be the next level up He was also, however, feeling “ a whole lot of excitement”, and said even if he did not place, he would still be proud to get this far in the competition

Page said he had a process for how he does things in the competition, and said that was the key to how he made it to the semi-finals

Top 10 already

“I would be extremely stoked if I get into that top five and get through to the finals over in the States, but also if I don’t make it, it’s not going to be the end of the world ”

Even if he didn’t make it into the top five, to qualify for the round in Spain, he was ranked in the top 10 in the world

One of the newest kids on the block at Tauranga SPCA is 12-week-old male pup Aqua Aqua and his three siblings came into the centre ’ s care after his family were unable to care for them Since then, h he’s s been thriving in foster care with his sister, Mia What’s special about Aqua? He is a confident

puppy, energetic, fun and robust. Now available to adopt to a loving new family, SPCA would love for a family with older children to take him – so he can play with them and become best friends Aqua will grow into a medium-large adult dog, so will need a home with secure fencing to contain him, and sufficient training to guide him

Funeralservicesvarygreatly,buttheyallfulfillthesameneed -toacknowledgethelifeofsomeonewelove Webelievethat everyoneshouldhaveaservicefittingtothemandthateach serviceshouldreflecttheuniquenessofthepersonwhose lifeisbeinghonoured.

Contactusandtakethefirststeptowardpre-planningyour lifecelebration

Tauranga’s Brenton Page representing New Zealand at The Caterpillar Asia-Pacific Regional Qualifier for the Global Dealer Technician Challenge held in Melbourne Photo / Supplied

Ayla Yeoman

Holy Trinity Tauranga celebrates 150 years

As Holy Trinity Tauranga prepares to celebrate its 150th anniversary this weekend, the parish family is reflecting on a legacy that continues to evolve –from a humble missionary church to a vibrant, multicultural hub that still sits at the heart of the city.

Today, the Devonport Rd church is buzzing with energy Under the leadership of Vicar Nigel Dixon, Holy Trinity has become known not just

for worship, but for music, hospitality and community connection There’s even a ‘Jazz Church’ once a month –complete with woodfired pizzas, local musicians, and what Dixon jokes may be “the only church pizza oven in New Zealand”.

“We wanted to make this building live; the original vision was that it would be a community asset, ” said Dixon, who’s led Holy Trinity for a little more than four years. “When I arrived from Palmerston North, it was in a challenging situation – a cavernous building and a diminished congregation. We’ve now grown younger and

way more diverse.” The 866-seat auditorium hosts concerts, civic events and gatherings, as well as a Sunday service, with the smaller chapel also holding services.

A reflection

“We’ve become more of a reflection of the city to a multicultural community,” Dixon said.

That renewal has come through creative innovation – from starting a monthly jazz church to hosting the Dylan Tribute with Kokomo and family events on the village green

“Today there is a blend of worship and spaces in which to find a home and belong ”

For Dixon, community building lies at the heart of Holy Trinity’s calling

“We live in a radically individualised world People’s most formative social influence is a smartphone and the level of detachment relationally and spiritually that that creates is profound,” he said

“The church becomes one of the few places where diverse people learn to get on and love each other without politics or ideology getting in the way ”

That emphasis on community connection isn’t new – it’s been part of Holy Trinity’s DNA since the beginning The roots of the gospel in Tauranga Moana stretch back to 1835, a time of unrest and change In 1838, Alfred Brown of the Church Missionary Society arrived at Te Papa and established a mission station that became a centre for education and

outreach His work helped foster trust between Māori and the mission, though that trust would later be tested by breaches of the Treaty of Waitangi and the tragedy of the New Zealand Wars –wounds still being healed in the region today

By the 1870s, Brown, based at The Elms, was

Holy Trinity Tauranga facility manager Jackie Kim and Parish Pastor Donald Carter at the entrance to the Memorial Alcove off the lobby, where the laid-up colours of the Sixth Hauraki Regiment are placed.

Photos / Brydie Thompson

an elderly man overwhelmed by the demands of Tauranga’s growing settler community He asked the Church to send a vicar to meet the needs of the settlers, and so Holy Trinity Tauranga was born.

First Vicar

The first vicar, Canon Charles Jordan, a fiery Irishman, arrived in 1873 and quickly became a prominent community leader He oversaw the construction of Holy Trinity Church, which was completed and consecrated in 1875, and he later served as Mayor of Tauranga.

Holy Trinity became the mother church of the region, helping to plant congregations in Mount Maunganui, Gate Pā, Maungatapu, Ōtūmoetai and Te Puke.

During World War II, the church served as a base for Red Cross operations. In 1999, tragedy struck when the original wooden church was destroyed by arson. The current

Holy Trinity Tauranga facility manager

Jackie Kim, Vicar

Nigel Dixon and Marg Barsanti outside Holy Trinity Tauranga.

church, with its light-filled modern design, and world-class conference and events facilities, is a symbol of resilience and renewal.

Inside, memorial plaques, the original lectern, and the colours of the Sixth Hauraki Regiment, laid up in 1973, honour the generations who have worshipped there.

As the church turns 150, its celebrations will reflect both gratitude for the past and anticipation for the future. On Friday, November 1, parishioners will gather for ‘An Evening Together’ – canapés-anddrinks for the parish family Later that evening, the wider public is invited to a concert by the acclaimed Nairobi Trio On Sunday, November 2, Bishop Andrew Hedge and Archbishop Emeritus Sir David Moxon – a Rhodes Scholar and ‘Palmy boy’ as Dixon fondly notes –will join the Sunday service.

For Dixon, the anniversary is both a moment of celebration and reflection.

“When you step into a 150-year-old story, you must be humble enough to learn the good and the bad. There’s the tragedy and complexity of the land wars. And this church provided and still provides quite considerable civic leadership ”

Care and serve

That awareness is reflected in the church’s mission statement: “We are aware that as the first church in the region we carry responsibility to build unity and reconciliation. We have a responsibility to care for our city and serve it faithfully”. “The challenge is how to stay true to our history, and how can we innovate, and be a church that is not following the culture but is a whisper of a better way, ” Dixon said.

The Bower Christmas Light Trail isback

Registrations are now open to join the Bower Christmas Light Trail!

Decorate your property, share the festive spirit, and help make this holiday season one to remember for the whole community By registering, you’ll also go in the draw to win fantastic prizes from Tauranga Crossing and Chuffed Gifts

Registrations close 16th November – don’t miss out: bit ly/bowerchristmaslights

An unmounted print showing a view of Holy Trinity Anglican Churcch with 12 people to the right. Th The handwritten in ink states: ‘Trinnity Church Tauranga Nov 1875’; beliieved to be photographed by Charlees Spencer. Photo / Tauranga Heritage Collecttion

Rosalie Liddle Crawford

Women’s ruugby kicks off in Pāpāmoa

Tauriko West Information day

Pāpāmoa Rugby Club is set to launch its first women ’ s ruggby team, to compete against teams a across the Bay of Plenty in 20226.

To kick things off, the club is hosting an open day this Sunday, inviting w women aged 16-plus, regardless of experiennce, to come along and see what women ’ s rugby in Pāpāmoa is all about.

The event will feature a fun and i inclusive afternoon of skills and drills, followed d by a barbecue and a Q&A session with the team ’ s coaches and management

According to the club, it will be a great chance for newcomers to connect, learn, and be part of building something new in the local sporting community

The open day runs from 2pm on Sunday,

Pāpāmoa Rugby Club is starting a women ’ s rugby team.

November 2, at Gordon Spratt Reserve in Pāpāmoa Organisers encouraged attendees to bring boots or sneakers – and a friend or two –ready to enjoy the afternoon Find out more at: www.facebook.com/ papamoarugby

Enjoy Halloween at Historic Village Free cricket

For those keen to celebrate Halloween tonight, October 31, the Historic Village is hosting a free spooktacular afternoon of family fun.

Families are invited to dress up in costume and follow a Trick or Treat Trail around the village, complete a scavenger hunt, and collect sweet treats at every stop There is also a best dressed competition – so go along as your favourite spooky character, superhero, or something truly unique and be in to win some fun prizes.

The event, at the Historic Village located at 17th Ave West, Tauranga City, will run from 4pm-5.30pm. Find out more at: www.whatsontauranga.co.nz

A day of free summer entertainment is on offer next month at Bay Oval, as New Zealand’s premier men ’ s one-day cricket competition, The Ford Trophy, plays in the Bay of Plenty

The Ford Trophy Round 5 match of Northern Districts versus Otago Volts match is at Bay Oval, Blake Park, on Wednesday, November 12, from 10 30am The competition has 10 rounds, which take place at cricket ovals across the nation from October 25, through to February 17 A grand final will be held at Cello Basin Reserve, Wellington, next February 22 Find out more at: https://tinyurl com/4evjx7wu

The biggest, best book fair yet!

The 19th Annual Tauranga Harbour City Lions Book Fair – which launches at Tauranga Racecourse next Friday – had modest beginnings. Think of a street stall peddling cakes, sausage rolls and asparagus rolls.

Then the Lions stepped up with jams, marmalade and lemon honey brewed at night in an aged care kitchen to be given away as a treat with Meals on Wheels

In 2007 it became a book fair beneath an orchard packhouse in Tauriko.

“I couldn’t believe it,” said Wendy Payne, a veteran of that first Lions’ Book Fair “People and cars were lined up in the drive at 8 o ’clock on Saturday morning I didn’t know what to do with the beggars!”

That was a humble outing by comparison, according to Lioness Christine Currie. She was there for that first sale too “We took just $1555 60 But we were delighted ” And all that money was returned to the community in grants Cure Kids, Diabetes Youth, Cystic Fibrosis, Autism and other deserving groups –gifts of $200 here, $500 there As it has every year since.

And Currie was still a driving force

“There’s been phenomenal growth Last year we took $62,000 ” So the Lions Book Fair has grown more than 40 times during its 18-year tenure And along the way it had provided a lifeline for people and groups needing a hand up

40,000 books, 900 jigsaws

Of course, it has also made very affordable books available to those who love burying their nose in a good read For example – there’s a copy of Joseph Heller’s ‘Catch 22’ with a RRP of $29 99 At the Lions Book Fair, $3 will buy a copy

Everything costs $3-$8

The book fair had also become the place to buy a distraction for the dissectologists, or puzzlers, who enjoy making sense of 1000plus pieces of jigsaw

1000 banana boxes

The 1000 banana boxes of donated titles also said something about the sustainability of a good book – they keep going round, from one appreciative reader to another They keep giving until

top:

A three-month trial reopening of the Hairini Street slip lane onto Turret Rd outside morning peak hours began on October 20, according to Tauranga City Council.

The slip lane trial would now run until January 20, 2026, except during the morning peak hours of 6.30am-9.30am Monday to Friday when it will remain buses only for safety reasons

Readers can view the map above for how to merge safely onto Turret Road from the slip lane.

Council said drivers need to be aware that the reopening applies only to the slip lane

they can ’ t – until they fall apart

Murray-Benge plans to give deputy mayor job her all

More than 20 years after first being elected to Western Bay of Plenty District Council, Margaret MurrayBenge next month returns to Barkes Corner as deputy mayor

Western Bay of Plenty Mayor James Denyer appointed the long-serving councillor as his deputy this month, ahead of the council’s inaugural meeting on November 5 when the new council will be sworn in

Murray-Benge took a punt at the Western Bay of Plenty Mayoralty once again in the recent Local Body Elections – and according to vote-counting was runner-up for the job, receiving 2737 votes She was, however, re-elected to the Kaimai ward as a councillor

Denyer, who has been elected to a second term with 4424 votes, confirmed the appointment in statement issued by the Western Bay of Plenty District Council

The statement said Murray-Benge brings long experience in Local Government, first becoming a councillor in 1977 for Waimairi District until 1989, and then Christchurch City from 1992 to 1998, before being elected to Western BOP in 2004

Always impressed

“Margaret brings valuable experience to the role, and I have always been impressed by her dedication to serving the community and highlighting issues close to people’s hearts,” said Denyer He said this dedication and connection showed in her strong election result, and

he wanted to recognise that

“Margaret’s strong election result is an indication of that dedication and connection, and something I wanted to recognise

“I look forward to working with her in a mutually supportive and constructive manner to achieve some great outcomes for the district ”

Murray-Benge said in the statement she was delighted to be appointed deputy mayor

It was a first in her Local Government career, following previous committee chairwoman roles “My job is to support the mayor and our council, and I will give it my all.

“While we each bring our own perspectives, I am confident we will work together constructively and with respect, always focused on the best outcomes for our district and community”

Denyer needed a new deputy mayor after John Scrimgeour stepped down to successfully run for the Bay of Plenty Regional Council

People matter

During her mayoral campaign, MurrayBenge said her long-term goal for the district was to create an affordable district people could be proud of “People matter and they’ve got to be able to afford to live here ”

She said she would work closely with Tauranga City Council and start “pruning down and making slimline decisions”, and work with the Government on infrastructure funding She advocated for getting rid of the regional council, the SmartGrowth

partnership and Western Bay of Plenty’s economic development agency Priority One, Local Democracy Reporting reported in September

One point Murray-Benge and Denyer disagreed on was the district’s Māori ward

Denyer wanted to keep it and MurrayBenge wanted it gone, with the majority of voters voting to remove it for the next election.

Murray-Benge has said she never supported Māori wards and thought they were patronising to local Māori

“I’m equal to anyone I meet and they’re equal to me Going down a separate path is undemocratic It’s no better than apartheid, and we have to get over it “There are plenty of Māori in central government There is no excuse as to why we do not have Māori in Local Government of their own right ”

Murray-Benge was a key figure in the council voting to leave Local Government New Zealand – another decision where Denyer was on the other side.

The new council will be sworn in at its inaugural meeting on November 5

Western Bay of Plenty District Council mayor James Denyer with newly announced deputy mayor Margarat Murray-Benge. Photo / Western Bay of Plenty District Council

Charity lights path of devotion

Each year, a local charity brings colour, connection and compassion to Tauranga through two iconic celebrations

The One Love Charity held its annual Tauranga Diwali Festival this month and is now working towards the Holi Festival of Colours held in March.

One Love’s secretary and event organiser Bela Reid said both celebrations bring people from all walks of life together to share culture, food, music, and joy.

This year ’ s Diwali festival at Tauranga’s Historic Village carried the theme of devotion – a reminder to live with honesty, heart, and care for one another

The event brought together more than 3500 people, Reid said. “It’s about looking within, lighting a diya, or throwing colours as a symbol to bring this light into our lives. Devotion is the opposite of deceit, it’s living truthfully with heart.”

The festival grounds glowed with candlelight and music, while aromas of freshly cooked food filled the air Families, friends and visitors gathered to dance, eat, and enjoy the sights of Diwali together

But beyond the fun and colour, One Love’s mahi centres on appreciation and respect – values reflected in how the charity recognises its people.

Artists are paid fairly for their work, and volunteers are thanked with small gestures like food vouchers or shared meals

“It’s about appreciation and dignity,” said Reid. “Thanks to our funders and sponsors, we can show our artists and volunteers that their contributions matter ” Volunteers are the heartbeat of every event, said Reid What began as a small

group of friends and family lending a hand had grown into a thriving community network, with many new helpers joining through the Volunteering Services platform.

Long-time volunteer Caio Martins had volunteered with One Love Charity for three years. “It’s always an enriching experience in a welcoming, positive environment. It is a beautiful opportunity to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.”

Fellow volunteer Amira Roa said the shared purpose drives her involvement.

“In the two years I’ve volunteered, both Holi and Diwali have been so much fun. Everyone is so welcoming regardless of who you are. ”

If you ’ re keen to volunteer, or if your group needs a helping hand, Volunteering Services can connect you. Learn more at: www.volunteeringservices.org.nz or call (07) 987 0920.

This year ’ s Tauranga Diwali Festival at Historic Village drew a vibrant crowd Photo / Blissful Photography

Meals on Wheels

The Bay of Plenty Bromeliad Club is preparing for its annual Bromeliad Spring Sale on Saturday, November 8, at Wesley Church Hall, 100 13th Ave, Tauranga.

Running from 8am-12 noon, the sale promises a paradise for plant lovers, featuring a vibrant array of bromeliads at budget-friendly prices. Shoppers can browse a diverse range of species and hybrids rarely found in local garden centres, while receiving expert growing advice directly from experienced club members

Among those contributing to the display is Heather Gerritsen of Te Puna, who discovered her passion for bromeliads through her mother

“My mother Johanna Elder moved to a retirement village, and I was fortunate to inherit a lot of her beautiful bromeliad collection, hence the bug began,” Gerritsen said.

Bromeliad spring sale a aits

Her collection has since grown significantly “I have around 150 bromeliads of several different varieties – mostly Neoregelia, Vriesea and miniNeoregelia. I’ve got a whole heap ready for the sale.”

With their striking colours, patterned foliage and unique architectural forms, bromeliads thrive in the BOP’s warm, humid climate. The favourable growing conditions have made them increasingly popular

“Bromeliads offer year-round interest, with some showcasing patterned foliage and spectacular flowers that can last for up to a year, ” said BOP Bromeliad Club president Lynley Breeze “We’re excited to share our passion for these beautiful plants and help local gardeners expand their collections ”

The club’s spring sale offers free entry, spot prizes, raffles, growing advice, and cash-only sales, with a cash-out facility on-site

Rosalie Liddle Crawford

Heather Gerritsen of Te Puna discovered her passion for bromeliads through her mother

Photo / Brydie Thompson

Whether you ’ re a resident, business owner, or simply interested in the future of Tauriko West, the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is hosting a community information day on the future of the neighbourhood.

The event next Saturday, November 8, from 11am-2pm, will be held at Tauriko School, for people to learn about key transport and infrastructure projects shaping the future of Tauriko West, said NZTA system

design regional manager Susan Collins.

“We’re looking forward to sharing updates and hearing from the community,” said Collins

The event would allow people to meet the teams behind the SH29/SH29A Tauriko West Road of National Significance (RoNS); SH29 Tauriko Enabling Works; SH29 Ōmanawa Bridge replacement; upcoming maintenance on SH29; and the evolving Tauriko West community and other local developments

“A lot has changed in Tauriko West over the last two years and with construction underway at three major sites on SH29, this

is a great opportunity to connect and share what’s happening,” said Collins

She said people travelling SH29 would shortly see the first steps to build the new Ōmanawa Bridge getting underway The new bridge, the first phase in the SH29/ SH29A Tauriko West RoNS project, will be built alongside the existing one on an alignment that fits with the future design for Tauriko West, Collins said

“The team is now making a start on preparing the site, with trees clear and work about to start on access roads. By November main construction will be under way ” NZTA had recently awarded the

contract to protect the route and seek consents for the SH29 Tauriko West (RoNS) and upgrades to SH29A – important steps in supporting growth, improving safety and building a more resilient roading network, Collins said

“The future new SH29 will feature four lanes between the Redwood Lane Interchange and Takitimu North Link Interchange, widening SH29A to four lanes between

the Takitimu Drive Toll Road roundabout and Barkes Corner Interchange

“The designation and consenting work is being supported by BBO, including identifying the land required, technical and environmental assessments, relocating utilities and working with landowners,” Collins said For more information on NZTA’s Tauriko West projects, and to sign up for updates, visit: nzta.govt.nz/tauriko-west

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An artist’s impression of the Ōmanawa Bridge for SH29 Tauriko West Road of National Significance. Photo / Supplied

Granny flats get the consent-free go ahead

Legislation this month will soon allow Kiwis to build granny flats up to 70m2 in their backyards without a building consent, unlocking more housing choices and delivering on a key Coalition Government commitment in the Q4 Action Plan.

The building consent exemption for granny flats up to 70m2 would be given effect by the end of this year by the Building and Construction (Small Standalone Dwellings) Bill and associated regulations, which passed into law this month

“It’s currently far too hard to build the homes New Zealanders need, with even the simplest dwellings requiring complicated and costly consent processes, ” RMA Reform and Housing Minister Chris Bishop said “We know increasing housing availability directly translates to lower living costs for our communities That’s why the Coalition Government is making it faster and more affordable to build granny flats up to 70m2 ” Bishop said these simple dwellings had the potential to be part of the solution for providing

families with more housing options.

“This will be great for grandparents, people with disabilities, young adults, and workers in the rural sector ”

In place by end of 2025

To support this change to the Building Act, updated National Direction under the Resource Management Act (RMA) would remove the need for resource consents for granny flats “and is expected to be in place by the end of the year, ” Bishop said.

Associate Finance Minister Shane Jones said he’d been working on these changes for two decades and was delighted the Coalition agreement had delivered a common sense housing solution.

“For whanau who live in extended family situations, this is an affordable option

“Companies that provide accommodation for their staff, and for small communities such as the Chatham Islands, this legislation will have many practical applications ”

About 13,000

Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk said it was also a positive step for boosting productivity in NZ’s construction

sector “The exemption is expected to deliver roughly 13,000 more granny flats over the next decade, meaning we’ll see more work for builders in the pipeline without local councils managing unnecessary consenting burdens for simple building work,” Penk said

Notify council beforehand

authorised building professionals

“Homeowners will also need to notify their local council before they begin building and once the granny flat is completed ”

Penk said the new exemption would come into effect in Quarter 1, 2026, but Kiwis could start planning now

“A good place to start is having conversations with designers and builders to understand what’s possible on your property under the exemption.”

“Local councils will be freed up to focus their attention on more complex building work where the need for an inspection and thorough consenting processes is much greater ” However, Penk said even with the building consent exemption in place, it’s important Kiwis remember they would only be eligible for the exemption if their granny flats were simple in design, met the Building Code and building work was carried out by

Also, to support local infrastructure in growing communities, councils could charge development contributions for granny flats when issuing a Project Information Memorandum (PIM)

Meanwhile, the Government was working quickly to ensure councils, homeowners and building professionals had access to the necessary forms, templates, and guidance before the exemption comes into effect early next year

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Most residential rooftop solar arrays don’t need consent – Govt

A new building consent exemption for rooftop solar panels came into force this month after the Government clarified the rules as part of their construction industry reforms.

“Earlier this year, I announced common sense changes to the Building Act to clarify that a building consent is not required to install rooftop solar panels on existing g homes and commercial buildings,” said Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk

On October 22, Penk announced the exemption

would come into effect the next day and would apply to all buildings

“Until now, decision-making on solar panel consents has varied between councils, creating uncertainty for homeowners who want to make smart decisions in reducing their carbon footprint and energy bills,” said Penk.

“Making the process simpler by removing burdensome red tape is expected to save Kiwis around $1200 per consent and help avoid unnecessary delays ”

However he said it was important that installations were carefully managed and comply with the Building Code

wind speed areas, a chartered professional engineer must provide or review the design of the structural fixings for the exemption to apply”

Most residential rooftop

are 25-30m2, so the majority of households would be able to install their

without involving

“For rooftop installations over 40m2 in total area per roof, or in very high

Farm St andalleyway improvements on theway

Tauranga City Council is working on improvement to Farm St and Leander Alleyway in Mount Manganui to make it safer and easier for people to move around the area.

The work began October 28 and was expected to be completed early-2026 Work would include a new pathway

connecting Farm St, next to the bus hub, to Bayfair Shopping Centre; upgrades to the alleyway between Leander and Farm streets; and further improvements along Farm St, including widened footpaths, improved street lighting and kerb ramps, and a new raised pedestrian crossing replacing the existing speed bump Find out more at: letstalk tauranga govt nz/ projects/farm-street-improvements

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solar arrays

solar panels

an engineer, said Penk.

What with the Tauranga Arts Festival spreading throughout the city, it’s been a busy time

The festival finishes this weekend and if you happen to have grabbed the paper straight from your letterbox and there’s still time. Let me mention that the brilliant Ozi Ozaa, a nine-piece band led by Ghanaian composer and multi-instrumentalist Yaw Asumadu, is playing the Carrus Crystal Palace on Saturday, November 1. Probably too late now but, damn, they’re worth it. It’s been a magnificent arts festival; a big ‘thank you ’ and hats off to the probably very tired organisers – good job!

But no time to pause, because bands are still tearing round the country with music on offer, and new local releases are emerging almost daily

Two shows

Next weekend, November 8, Albi And The Wolves hit town on their ‘Fun-Raising Tour’, playing not one but two shows at the Historic Village’s Jam Factory The group is a kinetic folk quartet led by Chris Dent – the titular albino frontman ‘Albi’ Pascal Roggen, who many will also have heard Easter’s jazz festival with Miho’s Jazz Orchestra, is on fiddle; and Michael Young and Hannah de Koster comprise the rhythm section

Since 2014 they’ve toured Australia, New Zealand and Rarotonga In 2018 they won the NZ Best Folk Artist Award

At the Jam Factory they will play two shows: a sit-down theatre show at 4pm and a rollicking folk party at 7pm Take your pick, or there’s a special ticket for both

Left-field events

Other left-field events that may be of interest: master drummer Stan Bicknell, fresh off playing stages across the UK and Europe with pop icon Natasha Bedingfield – and recently hand-picked from 6000 submissions to audition in LA for alt-rock legends Primus

– is giving a drum clinic at Totara Street on n November r 4 Th This is a rare and special opportunity is for anyone who hits the skins

Or try this on next Friday, November 7: Trombone Brazil at The Barrel Room on Wharf St, live samba, choro and gafieira performed by the Duncan Taylor Sextet No charge Next week I’m going to delve into local releases, and there’s some cool stuff out there Hardcore heavies Skonk have just launched a debut EP, not on Spotify, check out Bandcamp; The Artist Red has two new singles out that I’m just tracking down information about; False Waltons are ready to release an EP; and most excitingly of all, bluesman Grant Haua has sneaked

An Armistice Day commemoration will be held on November 9, at the

out a new album Haua’s album is acttuallly unnder r the artist name Two Roots and is called ‘Atua Blues’. It is a collaborative project with David Noël, vocalist of the Supersoul Brothers, a band based in Pau, France, where DixieFrog, the blues label that Haua is signed to, is based.

Having first heard it just a few days ago, I’m not in any real place for a review yet. I’ll return to it next week. In the meantime there’s a cool video for first single ‘River Blues’ and songs on this week’s playlist.

Hear Winston’s Latest Playlist

Scan the QR code or v sit

www t nyurl com/48zjk4az

armed forces, this year we are remembering the thousands of animals which were sent to the World Wars and the animals who have served our country since, including those that protect us at home in the NZ Police and NZ Customs,” said spokesperson Philip Wiley Free parking will be available at Pāpāmoa Pony Club The service is 10 30am-12pm

Left-field musical treats Unlockhome secrets

What secrets lie within the homes you pass each day? The Rotary Club of Tauranga Sunrise invites residents to find out at ‘Behind Closed Doors 2025’ on Saturday, November 15, from 10am-4pm. This is a self-drive adventure offering exclusive access to some of Tauranga’s most fascinating and unconventional homes and gardens.

The twist? Locations remain secret until you register Each ticket unlocks the first stop on a trail of surprising spaces – perhaps an artist’s hidden studio, a vintage fashion trove, or a collector’s private haven

Volunteers will share stories, but the real thrill is in the discovery

As Rotarian Kathy Webb said: “The properties are not what they appear to be or they have treasures that have never been seen before”. Funds raised support the Tauranga Community Housing Trust.

There are 300 tickets on sale for Behind Closed Doors on Saturday, November 15

Tickets are $40 plus a booking fee Book now oat: events.humanitix.com/bcd-2025

Albi And The Wolves Photo / Supplied

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