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Winning hearts and minds, and races
“It’s not over til the fat lady sings.” But it wasn ’ t a full-bosomed, heavilybuilt soprano belting out the long final aria of a Wagnerian opera It was a powerful and graceful work by a very different artiste.
A tall, lean, leggy teenage athlete striding out of the gloom and chill of a late autumnal eve. It was after 9pm, the last event on the card But the big West Auckland crowd at the Track Stars athletics meet at Henderson on March 7 –they love their sport out there – was there for some astronomy, a star bright on the Bay of Plenty skyline. Our Sam Ruthe. There’s a young man who’s commanded a share of column inches, and radio and TV time, for someone so young. He’s everywhere. And deservedly so Okay – there were other big names on stage at the Track Stars that Saturday night out west. Hamish Kerr, Tom Walsh, Zoe Hobbs et al. But really, they were pretty much the chorus, while front of stage, the “primo uomo”, the “first man ” in this opus, was Ruthe. It’s a moment worth reliving.
Love fest
Such is Ruthe’s magnetism, the Westies didn’t care there would be no scrap with Tauranga sparring partner, Sam Tanner –the man with whom he dead-heated the
national senior 1500 metres last year Even photos and 100ths of a second couldn’t split them that night. Historic, rare, exciting stuff.
So this time, Tanner injured, and Ruthe alone, centre stage, and rampant.
It wasn ’ t that he won the 1500 metres title outright by more than six seconds, or about 60 metres. They’re just numbers It was how he won. Into the back straight and the run home, the race turned into a mutual love fest Ruthe appeared to throttle off to engage with his adoring fans, to wave and smile. The crowd went nuts, leapt from their seats to cheer him to the tape. At just 16 years old, he’s figured out how to connect with his fan base. He loves running, succeeding and entertaining. And the entertained sense a maturity, a niceness, a kind of fundamental force of nature, and a gracious winner who influences and uplifts
A rare animal
Never met the young man, but from what I read and hear, he is a well-rounded, thoroughly agreeable and thoughtful chap with great values Throw in a strong,
Jack and Sam? Or is it Sam and Jack?
smooth, elegant running stride – a man who dazzles on the track, and charms off it. A rare animal indeed
Anyhow, after the theatrics on the back straight , Ruthe explained he just wanted to say “thank you ” Can’t remember his exact words but along the lines that the crowd had turned out in their thousands, had stayed around in the chill to watch him run the very last event, and he was “ very grateful”
What a delight And the crowd returned the love – they remained standing and cheering Thank you Sam You’re now a token Westie You have now been granted the freedom of Lincoln Rd You just need a souped-up, cut-down Mazda Rotary to be totally one of them
There was a crowning moment
‘It’s only running
After the race as Ruthe mingled with the adoring throng for selfies and autographs, a young kid scored the big prize when he hit up Ruthe for his race bib – the runner ’ s name and identifier number
Ruthe ripped it off his singlet, signed it, wrapped it with a smile, and handed it to the boy A friend saw all this unfold “Just a neat, memorable gesture ”
You can bet the new owner of the bib is dining out on that keepsake Why wouldn’t he?
Ruthe once tried to explain away the adulation – “it’s only running,” he said But it’s not We all knows it’s not Running, like other track and field disciplines, is the purest of sport Striving to be the fastest Simple and pure And
Kiwis rightfully obsess over our pedigree of pure, world-class middle-distance runners
Jack, “Come on Jack!”, Lovelock, world 1500m and mile record holder, the 1936 Olympic champion Isn’t there an unerring likeness between “Come on Jack” and Sam?
And Snell, Dixon, Quax, Willis and Walker I loved Walker – the gazelle, the bouncing mane, and domineering long stride that crushed opponents Is it too early to utter another name in the same breath?
What dare we hope for
I bet Walker was thrilled and proud watching another young gazelle called Ruthe pick off his 44-year-old mile record to become the youngest athlete to break 3:50
As some pundit pointed out middle distance runners don’t peak until 25-years-old so Ruthe still has 10 years and two Olympic cycles before he peaks What dare we hope for?
Then there was Ruthe’s now famously altruistic “I’ll do it” moment when he apparently climbed off the couch to help sight-impaired runner Tamahau Hicks, whose guide runner had fallen ill Ruthe said: “I’ll do it” and Hicks had the world’s youngest sub-four-minute miler to guide him to a PB A nice touch
The Monday after Ruthe’s Trusts Arena outing, he was probably back at Tauranga Boys’ College doing a calculus exam Or the like Probably aced that with a smile too He’s apparently “ a joy” to have at TBC Well, he’s a joy to us all
Pāpāmoa East Interchange to open by Easter
After four years of construction, the $90 million Pāpāmoa East Interchange is set to open soon, with travellers eagerly anticipating shortened commutes.
Less eagerly anticipated is the prospect of a new tolling point, as proposed but not yet confirmed by the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA).
Traffic management on the Tauranga Eastern Link/State Highway 2 (TEL) has been lifted, with the interchange set to be blessed on Monday and fully opened by Easter, Tauranga City Council says.
Golden Sands School teacher Liana Rosie said it would be “wonderful” to have it open. The Pukehina resident expected to save 15 minutes each way on her work commute.
Her colleague Melissa Burgess expected a similar saving off her 40-minute drives to and from Lake Rotoiti.
Construction of the interchange started in July 2022 It includes an overbridge across the TEL, on- and off-ramps, and connections to The Sands Avenue and Te Okuroa Drive.
The eastbound off-ramp opened early, in August.
NZTA funded 51% of interchange costs, while the council said the majority of its share was funded via development contributions.
The council received a 10-year, interestfree loan for the project via the Housing Infrastructure Fund.
by 2043. The interchange would support this growth, as well as enabling faster travel between neighbourhoods and a more direct connection to the Rangiuru Business Park
Pāpāmoa Residents and Ratepayers Association chairman Philip Brown said residents would watch with curiosity to see if the traffic patterns changed and if peak-hour traffic reduced on Pāpāmoa Beach Rd and Te Okuroa Drive.
He said a major concern was whether there would be a toll for driving on the TEL between Domain Rd and the new interchange.
Last year, NZTA consulted on adding a new toll point to this stretch
The TEL is already tolled between Domain Rd and the Paengaroa roundabout
NZTA’s proposed changes included new but reduced tolls for motorists not travelling the full length, and a 12-month toll-free period for Pāpāmoa East Interchange users.
Since the $455m TEL opened in 2015, about $79m in toll revenue has been collected, with $53m going towards the debt and interest, and the rest to operational costs, according to NZTA data to mid-2025.
Tolling concerns
Pāpāmoa ward councillor Steve Morris said residents had shared their concerns about tolling as they felt they were already paying for the interchange through rates and fuel taxes.
The Pāpāmoa East Interchange is set to open to traffic by Easter Friday 2026
undermine some of the interchange’s benefit ”
NZTA regional system design manager
Susan Collins said consultation on the tolling proposal closed in August and the agency would announce the outcome shortly.
She said tolling had been used in Tauranga to bring forward the construction of new roads, supporting accelerated growth and economic productivity, with the Tauranga Eastern Link and State Highway 29 Takitimu Drive. Free alternative routes were available.
Gamechanger
nment policy meant NZTA was ted to consider tolling to support nstruction and maintenance of all
new roads.
Bay of Plenty MP Tom Rutherford said the full opening of the interchange would be “ a genuine game-changer for Pāpāmoa East, our largest and fastest-growing suburb”.
Council senior project manager Nic Barnett said challenges the project had to overcome included poor ground conditions in some sections, and the logistics of working next to and above a live highway Barnett said once the interchange opened, TEL users would need to be aware of the ramps and potential merging traffic.
– LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air
Ayla Yeoman
Photo / Kelly O’Hara
Wayne Wright’s lasting legacy
In a quiet but deeply felt loss for the Bay of Plenty and beyond, the passing of Wayne Wright snr (ONZM) marks the end of a life defined by enterprise, vision, and an enduring commitment to others
A self-made businessman, philanthropist and devoted family man, Wright’s story reflects something distinctively New Zealand – the belief that with hard work, determination, and care for community, one person can make a meaningful difference. During the course of his life, he did exactly that
A proud Cantabrian by upbringing and later a long-time resident of Ōmokoroa, Wright was raised with a strong work ethic Described by his family as humble and grounded, his working life began modestly, running a lawn mowing business He went on to build and contribute to ventures across an extraordinary range of industries –from kiwifruit orcharding in the Bay of Plenty to construction ventures spanning the United States and Mexico, and telecommunications in Alabama
Shared vision
Together with his wife of 57 years, the late Chloe Wright, he built not only businesses but a shared vision Their partnership – one he described as complementary – became central to everything they achieved
In 1996, the couple co-founded what would become BestStart Educare, now
New Zealand’s largest early childhood education provider
“What began as a single centre grew into a nationwide network of 260 centres, with more than 4500 staff caring for about 20,000 preschool children daily,” his son Wayne jnr said
For Wayne snr, a deep sense of purpose extended well beyond business
“Through the Wright Family Foundation, Wayne and Chloe directed more than $60 million into education, the arts, and health and social programmes across New Zealand,” foundation trustee and son Samuel Wright said “Their support reached communities in practical ways – from literacy initiatives to programmes supporting young parents and child wellbeing.”
Wayne snr had been quoted on their humanitarian work together “It’s about giving back, and it’s absolutely thrilling to see our foundation assist multiple projects to fruition, as they strive to make New Zealand a better place ”
Quiet impact
In 2025 Wayne snr was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to education and philanthropy, having previously turned the honour down It recognised not only the scale of his contributions but decades of quiet impact – measured in lives supported, opportunities created, and communities strengthened
Underpinning his achievements, Wayne snr remained deeply family focused
seats
to 6th
“He was always very low-key Obviously, he was very successful in
A statement from his family said Wayne snr was “ a dedicated family man ” “Most would consider his life as full, yet he still had ambitious goals he was eager to complete ” Friends remember him for his energy, humility and generosity Wright Family
business life and financially, but you
never know it;
t
His energy Holland said Wayne snr avoided the limelight, preferring simple pleasures like driving a well-worn car and dressing
He was a husband, father of five, and grandfather first – someone who valued time together and took pride in his children’s paths
Foundation trustee and close friend Bill Holland said Wayne snr lived modestly
his
’d
he wasn ’
flamboyant ”
Wayne and Chloe Wright. Photo/ Supplied
- a life defined by giving back
unassumingly Even in his philanthropy, he emphasised others’ contributions, initially choosing not to join the board of the foundation he and Chloe established so it would be recognised as her vision
Following Chloe’s passing in 2023,
Wayne Wright received an ONZM for education and philanthropy, 2025.
Wayne snr took on a board role, carrying forward their shared vision –one built on kindness, generosity and a belief in giving back
Wayne snr ’ s vitality remained evident even in his final months, said Holland
y, travelled to Rwanda children and their fa
He said that the day after celebrating his 80th birthday, Wayne snr had a with one of his amily ren, and he called ” Holland said “He -tribes to Rwanda th Most people at 80 e slowly.
“He had five child them his sub-tribes, took one of the subthe day after his 80t would be taking lif
“The most amazing his energy Wayne ha right up to the end,”
g thing for me was ad remarkable energy
Wayne snr ’ s genero through the founda supported more th across New year, ensuri on commu
” Holland said osity continued tion, which han 100 organisations Zealand in the past ing a lasting impact unities and families
Legacy His fami Chloe’s ch their ama legacy” “Even t passed, a lasti conti Way not d achie pa
to continue
ily said: “Wayne and hildren will continue azing philanthropic
though Wayne has the foundation is ing legacy and will inue,” Holland said yne snr ’ s life was defined by a single evement, but by a attern of contribution – to his family, his
community, and his country
Friends said they would remember him not only for his accomplishments, but for his quiet strength, warmth and the joy he brought to those around him
“It’s a lovely life when you can live to 80 with all your capacities intact and then pass peacefully That, to me, is a true celebration of life,” Holland said
In New Zealand, we often speak of people who quietly make a difference Wayne Wright snr was one of those people And because of that, many lives are better for his having lived Wright’s funeral service will be held 11am tomorrow, March 28, at the Holy Trinity Church, Devonport Rd, Tauranga
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Wayne Wright snr took his son Wayne Wright jnr and family to Rwanda in early 2026. Photo / Supplied
Search and rescue partners
For the past six years, Nick Petry and his dog Kora have been part of the frontline response team Tauranga LandSAR, one of the busiest search and rescue groups in New Zealand.
Aged 9, Kora has been operational since she was 3, working primarily as a New Zealand Land Search and Rescue dog across the greater Bay of Plenty, but also deploying to Waikato, Coromandel and Hawke’s Bay when needed
Kora is not just a working dog –she’s Petry’s pet He adopted her at 12 months old with the specific goal of training her for search and rescue work
While many handlers start training from puppyhood, Kora’s journey began a little later It takes about two years to fully train a search dog, and together they put in the time and commitment to become an operational team
Office to bush
New Zealand Land Search and Rescue dogs has 16 operational teams across Aotearoa These dog teams are all members of a local Land Search and Rescue group and deploy as part of a Police or RCCNZ co-ordinated response Search and rescue work is
entirely voluntary By day, Petry works as an architectural designer and project manager
“Kora goes to the office with me – but when the call comes, everything changes,” Petry said “On average, we respond to about three callouts a month as a group, adding up to around 30 deployments a year ”
During the past six years, missions involving Kora have now reached 140 deployments
Petry said their work covers a wide range of situations – from missing dementia patients, elderly people who have wandered from home, hunters, hikers, trampers to walkers lost in dense bush
Some searches take place in remote wilderness; others happen close to town Every deployment is different, and each one demands focus, resilience and trust between handler and dog
Training, instinct
While Petry is careful about what details he can publicly share, he said some of the most remarkable finds – purely from a search perspective – had involved incredibly challenging recoveries
In one case, Kora successfully located someone who’d been missing for a couple of weeks It’s in these difficult, complex searches that her training, instinct and determination truly stand out, Petry said
“Being able to hike or helicopter into the wild with your mate by your side and bring people home to their families is without a doubt one of the coolest and most rewarding things you can do,” he said
Petry and Kora were also involved in the early rescue phase following the Mount Maunganui landslide tragedy in January, though he remained modest about their role
Despite the seriousness of their work, there are lighter moments too At the recent group photo shoot for the Memorial Park mural, there was an ironic twist –the group had to briefly stop and search for Petry and Kora, who’d briefly gone off to explore the bushwalk near Nicholas Charles’ photography studio at Tauranga Historic Village “We’ve lost the search and rescue team!” was the hilarious cry
Follow Kora’s adventures
Kora has her own Facebook page, where supporters follow her adventures Petry hadn’t known much about the mural project when they were tagged in a Facebook post inviting involvement, but he thought, why not? After years of quiet, voluntary service to the community, Kora’s inclusion in the mural feels like a fitting tribute, he said
Four
Support her work
From bushland searches to office days, from intense deployments to playful moments, Kora is both hero and companion – and her
dedication had helped bring answers, relief and closure to countless families, Petry said To support Land Search and Rescue, go to: www landsar org nz
Nick Petry and his German Shepherd dog Kora are a New Zealand Land Search and Rescue dog team. Photo / Nicholas Charles Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Appeal for man and best friend
If your dog insists on carrying a stick everywhere it goes, Tauranga’s latest art attraction might be its new favourite stop
A playful new addition to Tauranga’s creative scene is inviting locals – and their four-legged companions – to stop, stay, and borrow a stick.
Artist Nick Eggleston, a familiar and popular face at Tauranga Historic Village, is behind a pop-up exhibition that blends his well-known canine artwork with an unusual community feature – a dog stick library
Housed temporarily inside the Fire Station building, just across from The Incubator Creative Hub, the installation is exactly what it sounds like – a place where dogs can “borrow” a stick, enjoy a game, and return it for the next visitor
The concept originated from The Incubator team, with Eggleston adding his own artistic touch
“It’s just a board with pegs and a load of sticks hanging on it so people can come along with their dog, play, and then put the stick back,” he said.
“They wanted one of my dog paintings on it, and I thought, ‘why not make a bit more of it and create a whole series to go with it?’”
The result is a mini exhibition of eight new paintings, each depicting dogs proudly carrying sticks. True to Eggleston’s signature style, some of the dogs feature the tattooed detailing that has made his work instantly recognisable to collectors.
The stick library itself is built to last,
constructed from sturdy posts and painted timber. While it sits inside the Fire Station for the duration of the exhibition, it will later be moved onto the village green for ongoing public use
Originally from Yorkshire, Eggleston has been based in Tauranga since 2006 and is well-known locally not only for his exhibitions but also for his long-standing work as an art tutor
During the pop-up, visitors can see another side of his practice taking shape in real time. A pottery wheel has been set up in the space, where Eggleston is working on a series of imaginative bottle sculptures inspired
pirates. “I’ve made bottles with little faces on them for years, ” he said. “Then I added tricorn hats so you can pour liquid out, and they started to look like pirates. Now they’ve got eye patches and barnacles – they’ve just evolved.”
The pieces are still in progress, sitting near his wheel as they dry before firing, meaning visitors may catch the creative process mid-flow The exhibition is free to attend and runs in the Fire Station building until April 4, with the space open on selected weekdays from 10am-3pm. Dogs, of course, are welcome.
Former Prime Minister Helen Clark will visit Waipuna Hospice next week to unveil the organisation’s newly installed Gratitude Tree – a powerful and permanent symbol of remembrance, generosity, and community care.
The tree, which is hand-crafted and made from reclaimed rimu, stands in the hospice Inpatient Unit. Each individual leaf represents a family who had chosen to give back through the Waipuna Hospice Circle of Care programme, helping ensure specialist palliative care remains available to future families across the region
In a deeply personal gesture, Clark will place her own leaf on the tree in tribute to her late father, Frederick George Clark, who died aged 103 last year under the care of Waipuna Hospice.
Waipuna Hospice chief executive David Bryant said the tree ’ s unveiling was not only symbolic, but a reflection of lived experience.
“We are incredibly honoured that Helen has chosen to share her family’s story in this way It speaks to the profound impact hospice care has, not just on patients, but on those who love them. This tree is more than a memorial; it is an act of hope. Every leaf is a family saying: ‘the care we received matters, and we want that same care to be there for others’.”
The Gratitude Tree recognised donors who contributed $5000 or more to Waipuna Hospice, either as a single gift or cumulatively via the Circle of Care programme. Each leaf can be personalised, creating a lasting tribute to loved ones while supporting the continuation of compassionate end-of-life care. “This tree will continue to grow over time,” Bryant said.
Waipuna Hospice relies heavily on community support to deliver its services free of charge to patients and families, he said. Initiatives like the Circle of Care not only honour that generosity but help secure the future of hospice care in the Bay of Plenty Find out more about the Circle of Care programme at: waipunahospice.org.nz/support-us/circle-of-care/
by
Artist Nick Eggleston has created a dog stick library. Photo / Kelly O’Hara
Rosalie Liddle Crawford
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Artist’s impression
Businesses urged to get ducks in a roow
Tauranga businesses are being encouraged to start designing, decorating and even engineering their entries for one of the city’s most unusual corporate competitions
The corporate race that is part of the Great Tauranga Duck Race is returning to The Strand on Tauranga Waterfront on Sunday, April 19, with organisers Tauranga Te Papa Rotary Club having two separate categories this year –motorised ducks and unpowered ducks
Rotarian Alan Hitchcock said the corporate event had become a highlight of the annual fundraiser with businesses keen for bragging rights
Best dressed
“Ducks can be all dressed up and branding in company colours or logos, with trophies for first, second and third,” Hitchcock said “There is also the Best Dressed Duck Award ”
Businesses can enter large corporate ducks for $230 including GST and decorate them in their company branding before sending them down the harbour course.
The corporate ducks must be delivered to the eastern end of The Strand waterfront, near the McLeod Cranes by 10am on the day The unpowered and motorised races will take place at 10 30am and 10 45am ahead of the main 5000 duck race at 11am The finish line for both events is by the tidal steps opposite the Hairy Maclary statues
Last year about 60 creatively decorated entries took part, ranging from simple designs to fully engineered creations
Judged by event sponsor Rodney Fong of Ray White Tauranga, the Best Dressed Duck award in 2025 went to Plumberman, while the race itself saw
Page Macrae Engineering take the win
Their duck, expertly engineered and motorised, crossed the finish line first, with Grange Road Spa Canine Resort Judea and Grange Road Spa Canine Resort Mount Maunganui claiming second and third respectively
“Swanny from Page McCrae’s design team said it was a great team building exercise and fun for the company, as well as giving us their support, ” Rotarian Simon Ellis said on the day
“They were however a bit concerned
Easter cheer hops into Greerton Village
Greerton Village is set to come alive with Easter excitement as families are invited to join in a festive afternoon of fun, treats, and community spirit.
From 3pm to 5pm next Thursday, April 2, the Easter Bunny will make a special appearance, roaming the village streets and handing out chocolates to children and visitors.
Greerton Mainstreet Manager Mel Carullo said the event is all about bringing people together and celebrating the changing season.
“ “We want to create a festive atmosphere, attract families into the village and signal the start of autumn, ” she said.
The celebrations won ’ t stop there
Shoppers will also have the chance to take part in a ‘Shop in the Village’ promotion throughout the school holidays, from April 6-20. Anyone who spends $10 or more at participating retailers can enter a prize draw
Carullo said the promotion is designed to support local businesses while rewarding loyal customers “Customers who spend $10 or more at participating village retailers will be eligible to enter the promotion draw to win prizes,” she said. A total prize pool of $1000 is up for grabs, split across three prizes made up of c cash and retail vouchers, w with winners to be drawn during the promotion period Find out more about Greerton Village, visit: www greertonvillage.org.nz
they may run the battery flat beffore reaching the finishing line.
“The motorisation was all legit, and maybe some others will look k towards some motorisation this year ”
Impressive
Ellis said the effort companies s put into their designs last year had becomme a major part of the spectacle “The amount of work that goes into detailing g and ‘pimping’ the ducks is impressiive It’s a great team-building exercise annd a lot of fun for businesses ”
Last year ’ s Great Tauranga Duuck
Race raised more than $37,000 0 for schools, the Life Education Trust and
Rotary’s community projects Businesses interested in entering a duck can register onlline e or email at: duckrace@xtra co nz
Rosalie Liddle Crawford
The Classic Flyers duck has competed in the past.
Rowan Ford Dawson, dressed as the Easter Bunny, will be in Greerton Village on April 2.
Photo / George Novak
Bethlehem nonagenarian deals
“I was too busy staying alive to die!”
But three of Winifred McGregor’s schoolmates did die that day – at a gnarly, untamed and isolated Allans Beach, 25km out of Dunedin on the Otago Peninsula. It was a Saturday afternoon – February 21, 1949. That day 16-year-olds Wynsome Taylor and Heather Copland, and 14-year-old Robin Ramsay, all drowned on a school outing at a beach notorious for high energy breaks, strong southerly swells and hazardous rips. The beach is known as dangerous but dramatic – there’s more
wildlife than human traffic on the sand
Think sealions and penguins.
Local wisdom nowadays would probably suggest a safer, patrolled beach in Dunedin if unsure in the surf But that wisdom might not have been readily available in 1949 when a bus of 71 school boarders and five staff set out on a sunny afternoon for a beach picnic and swim.
“[My] Second week at boarding school,” remembers Winifred or Win, Winnie or Freddy, depending on who you talk to “We were pretty excited ”
But high excitement turned to tragedy – only 68 pupils climbed back on the bus home that afternoon.
Now, 77 years after that black Saturday, Win, a resident at Arvida’s Bethlehem Views Rest Home on Cambridge Rd, has committed her “ very vivid” memories of the tragedy to paper
‘Deadly’ or ‘disastrous’
‘A Boarding School Experience’ it’s headed. If she’d woven the word ‘deadly’ or ‘disastrous’ into that banner, it would not have been sensationalising the memory Then she agreed to share it with The Weekend Sun
“It’s family history – something I can never forget. So, it’s important when I depart, the kids know a little bit more about me. ”
The schoolgirls scrambled into their togs among the sand dune tussock grass and sprinted down the beach into a calm sea with gently breaking waves.
But Allans Beach is as treacherous as it is inviting It’s moody, can turn on you. And it did. One of the trademark swells swept along the beach. “I had my back to it – I didn’t see it coming,” Win said. “One minute calm, next a huge rogue wave and undertow” Suddenly Win and 12 of her colleagues were floundering out of their depth, in a panic, in a wild surf
‘Shoved my bum’
“The breakers kept coming – they’d pick me up, roll me in a ball and dump me. I’d come up in a trough.” One huge wave just gone, another one coming “I could
“Ididn’t have time to be afraid, or think ofdying Iwas too busy”
only see walls of water, spume, the sky Couldn’t see land. I didn’t know where I was, ” said Win.
She was well served by her upbringing. The strong swimmer knew breakers and could body surf from her family’s daytrips to Raglan from their farm at Newstead near Hamilton She was equipped to survive.
“I didn’t have time to be afraid, or think of dying I was too busy,” Win said “But these Dunedin monsters…I had never experienced anything like that before.”
She had a drill, a procedure to cope in such a crisis Mouth closed, head down, arms outstretched trying to surf away from the rolling demons. Because they were after her “I tumbled every which way Then miraculously I’d pop to the surface in time to take a breath before another wave smashed on top of me. ”
Then the heroine, sports mistress Miss Bembridge emerged from the churning surf “She gave me a big shove on my bum, towards shore I presumed. And yelled at me to, ‘keep going, keep going’ She was so encouraging.” Then Miss Bainbridge was gone She had other lives to save.
Win’s most enduring memory was time. “Was I in the surf for five minutes or half an hour? I have no idea. It just seemed like a very long time” Then a toe touched sand. “My God,
Winifred McGregor today – 77 years after the Allans Beach tragedy. Photo / Kelly O’Hara
with demons from 77 years ago
what a relief! I had made it ”
Nearby was her friend Margaret –“floating on her back”. “She had a big nose and it looked like a shark’s fin.” Win can giggle about it now “She didn’t realise she was in shallow water again.” She too had been saved.
Silent grief, suffering
On the beach stood another school mistress. “She looked terrible, hair wet and straggly, dress tucked in her bloomers. Absolutely distraught.” She, like Win and her friend, had no idea what was happening with the rest of the boarders out in the surf “We were out, we were safe, and that was all we could worry about.”
The school mistress marshalled them to a nearby farmhouse where they were wrapped in blankets in front of an open fire. “We didn’t talk about what had happened. We didn’t discuss it.” Perhaps they were traumatised into silence? Three schoolmates dead Silent grief, silent suffering.
“Then these haunting screams of anguish from down the hallway [of the farmhouse].” Somone confronted with the reality of events perhaps? Win shrugs – she can only imagine.
And a tiny distraction is introduced. A newborn baby It belonged to the owners of the house and was passed lovingly between the girls. They giggle, the baby gurgles. They take some comfort
“Even on the bus home that evening, we didn’t talk about what had happened.” Perhaps it just didn’t seem right.
Nor, said Win, was it ever discussed, never broached And there was no such thing as counselling or therapy “We attended a memorial service at college and then just got on with life.” They quietly set three lives aside.
‘I was that baby’ Then, 63 years later, a strange coincidence. “A moment that makes you wonder about life,” said Win.
She and husband Mac were
touring the South Island when she had an impulsive urge to revisit Allan’s Beach. While there, a man with three Border Collie dogs emerged from the farmhouse driveway
“I explained to him I was one of the 13 girls swept away by the rip in ’49. And he said, ‘I was that baby that was passed around that day’.
“It was so lovely knowing that I had cuddled him at a time
when I desperately needed someone, or something, to cuddle And I could say ‘thank you’.”
Win supposed she was deeply affected by the drownings “Because I’ve never stopped thinking about it. Talking about it. And I needed to write about.”
The 13-year-old “bit of a tom boy” had been sent to finishing school in Dunedin, to “become a lady”. And it just about did finish her She stayed two years And for whatever reason, she never returned.
Hunter Wells
There’s more wildlife than people traffic on Dunedin’s notorious Allans Beach Photo / File
A 13-year-old Win McGregor came home in 1949, but three classmates didn’t. Photo / Supplied
More than 50 years of maintain
Transport Maintenance Ltd is a dedicated heavy vehicle and specialist equipment workshop built from the ground up for commercial operators. You will find them at 35 Maleme St in Tauranga.
The business was purchased by brothers Chris and Mike Fallows in 2017, having previously been owned by the late John Bickers
“For more than 50 years, the company has delivered professional, efficient service to customers and their vehicles throughout the Bay of Plenty,” the Fallows bothers said “With combined industry experience exceeding 120 years, the team offers a depth of knowledge and expertise that inspires confidence and trust ” Transport Maintenance specialises in fleet servicing and the ongoing maintenance of a wide range of vehicles and equipment, including trucks, buses, motorhomes, horse floats, trailers, and other specialised machinery A key aspect of their service offering is the certification of Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs) and crane trucks, including HIAB and Palfinger units
As shown here in the timeline, the business has continued to evolve, expanding its services, diversifying its capabilities, and adapting to changes within the
automotive industry All the while it had maintained a strong commitment to quality workmanship and customer satisfaction
1972 - 1973
Transport Maintenance began operations at a workshop yard and panel beating facility on the corner of Burrows St and 15th Ave in Tauranga The company quickly built a formidable reputation and firmly established itself as a trusted name in vehicle maintenance
1973 - 2005
In 1973, Transport Maintenance opened a second branch on 3rd Ave in Tauranga The company believes it was one of the first to introduce Japanese import vehicles into New Zealand During the 1980s and 1990s, Transport Maintenance expanded by acquiring a range of franchises, including Massey Ferguson, Hino Trucks, Isuzu, Mahindra, MTD/Steelfort, Laser Wheel Alignment, and Redstaff
2005 - 2014
In 2005, the decision was made to close the 15th Ave workshop to consolidate operations and enhance efficiency at the larger 3rd Ave site In 2014, Transport Maintenance relocated to 100B Maleme St, a move that further strengthened the business without diminishing its l ong-established reputation within the community.
2014 - 2019
In 2017, Transport Maintenance partnered with Advanced Braking Technology (Australia) as a distributor of failsafe braking systems The company also secured the Australasian distributorship for Electrostatic Spraying Systems (USA), further broadening its product and service capabilities
2020 - Present
In 2020, Transport Maintenance relocated to a larger site at 35 Maleme St The new facility provides expanded workshop space,
Mechanic Rinoj Sameera measuring fifth wheel gap tolerance.
A crane under repair in the workshop
Joe Kora and former apprentice, Callum Marshall.
Meet the team: Mechanics Aldrin Espino & Aruna Bandara, office manager Sara Laugesen, owners Chris Fallows & Mike Fallows, sales manager Tom Thorne-Large, operations manager Paul King, driver David Richards, mechanic Rinoj Sameera, workshop foreman Stephen Kirkham and mechanic Joe Kora.
aining the Bay of Plenty’s vehicles
improved office areas, and a larger parking area for client vehicles, allowing more mechanics to work efficiently and comfortably.
“With an experienced team of 10, we work hard to accommodate clients’ requirements and will always go that extra mile to make sure the client leaves our yard happy and satisfied with the job,” said the Fallows
Expert care
Transport Maintenance delivers expert mechanical care for everything from heavy transport fleets and crane trucks to motorhomes and agricultural machinery, and it is all under one roof
From complex engine and transmission rebuilds to specialised chassis repairs and rust treatment, they will happily handle the work that other workshops can ’ t or won ’ t
They proactively ensure they have the latest in software systems, which means they can take the stress out of fleet management by tracking your service history and providing automatic service reminders, ensuring no maintenance milestone is missed
A large yard means no headaches when bringing in vehicles, and their large up-to-date truck lifts will accommodate even the largest of vehicles
For added convenience, their mobile mechanic service can come directly to your yard or job site in the Bay of Plenty area to perform on-site
repairs and maintenance, further reducing vehicle downtime.
For the farmer or contractor, they service tractors, sprayers, diggers, and small plant items
This really is a one-stop, one-shop dedicated heavy vehicle and specialist equipment workshop
“Every make Every model Every time ” With Transport Maintenance Ltd, you can be assured of trusted expertise, consistent results, and service that goes the distance
Tractors and agricultural vehicles.
Office manager Sara Laugesen
Owners of Transport Maintenance, Chris & Mike Fallows. Photos / Kelly O’Hara
Buses and recreational vehicles.
A modified snow mobile.
Kem Ormond
Falls prevention: Small steps make a big difference!
Falls are one of the most common causes of injury for older people in Aotearoa New Zealand, according to Hato Hone St John.
“And the impact of a fall can be life changing,” said Hato Hone St John’s Western Bay of Plenty community and engagement co-ordinator Berenice Langson
That’s why her organisation is hosting Falls Prevention events across the WEstern Bay of Plenty region in April.
“Our goal is to help more New Zealanders stay safe and independent in their homes and communities,” Langson said.
“By getting Western Bay seniors along to these events so they learn and understand the risks of falls and take steps early, we can
prevent many falls before they happen ”
St John’s Western Bay of Plenty’s Falls Prevention events will be at the following locations:
Lifezone Church in Judea will host an event on April 1, from 10am-11.30am.
Katikati’s memorial hall will host an event April 21 from 10am-11.30am.
A Te Puke event will be hosted at The Orchard Church, 20 MacLoughlin Drive, on April 29 from 10am-11.30am
Langson said all seniors are invited to the events – but they must first RSVP by texting 027 252 7156 or email: berenice.langson@stjohn.org.nz
As New Zealand’s population continues to grow and age, more people are needing help after a fall, according to St John.
“But what many people don’t realise is
It is Essential to keep his mind and body stimulated!
Come and Join us. We produce Firewood, which we sell, and give the money to Tauranga Based Organisations.
We feel good, keep active, stay alert, meet mates and have a beer after work.
Sunrise Lions Club keeps men fit, healthy and happy (Ladies Note)
Call Ken Evans. 0277339686 to have a visit to our “Firewood Health Camp”
that falls aren ’ t just unfortunate accidents In many cases, thhey can b be prevented d with the right information, early support, and a few simple habits,” Langson said “The good news is that small changes can make a big difference in staying strong, steady, and independent.”
Hato Hone St John said it was also working closely with ACC and Osteoporosis New Zealand to help people understand how to reduce their risk of falling “Strength and balance
St John WBOP’s Berenice Langson is running Falls Prevention events free for seniors in April
Photo / Kelly O’Hara
exercises, keeping active, and checking in earlly with h a h heallth h proffessional l whhen something doesn’t feel right can all help,” Langson said
“Just as importantly, early support can protect confidence – something that often takes a knock after a fall and can be hard to rebuild.”
Find out more about St John’s Falls Prevention events across the country throughout April by emailing: aprilfallsevents@stjohn.org.nz
Maketū and Te Puke council drop-in sessions
Maketū and Te Puke communities will both have drop-in sessions open in their areas tomorrow, March 28, for residents to give feedback on Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s key budget decisions.
The council last week approved the Draft Annual Plan 2026/2027 which included a total rates increase of 8 13% for existing ratepayers Feedback is now open on the proposed budget for the year ahead, said the council. The proposed budget included several key choices that the council was seeking community feedback on.
For more information, visit: yourplace.
Adopt
westernbay.govt nz/annual-plan-2026-27
In-person drop-in sessions would be held at Maketū on March 28 from 10am-12pm at Maketū Community Centre; and in Te Puke on March 28 from 1pm-3pm at Te Puke Library’s boardroom.
Written feedback forms were available at WBOP Council Library and Service Centres, or feedback can be emailed to: yourplace@westernbay.govt.nz
People can choose to speak to their feedback at a council hearing on April. 23 – to do so, email: yourplace@westernbay.govt nz by April 20 to secure a timeslot.
theaffectionate, active Ace!
Ace is a 4-month-old male crossbreed pup whose owner surrendered him to the SPCA due to circumstances beyond their control Despite his start, Ace is a friendly, energetic, and loving pup now ready to find his forever home.
He’s full of puppy charm, loves to play, and enjoys being around people. Ace will need a home that can provide plenty of exercise and stimulation to keep him happy and healthy With the right guidance, training, and lots of love, Ace will grow into a loyal and fun companion.
If you ’ re looking for an active, affectionate addition to your family, Ace might be the perfect match! Phone Tauranga SPCA on 07 5780245 Reference no: 661415.
Sunrise Lions Club
Mega build underway in Pāpāmoa East
Excitement is building across Pāpāmoa as a new Mitre 10 MEGA store takes shape at The Sands, marking a major milestone for business owners Brian and Loretta Johnstone
The couple, who have owned Mitre 10 Pāpāmoa since 2005, are
of a dedicated yard is expected to be a gamechanger “We can ’ t service that side of the business at the moment, ” Loretta said. “So that will be a huge positive for the local trade community”
The move east reflects the rapid growth of Pāpāmoa, where future development projections made the decision a logical one “Mitre 10 NZ has done their future planning
Mitre 10 Pāpāmoa owners Loretta and Brian Johnstone will relocate their business to The Sands and reopen as a Mitre 10 MEGA
Te Puke’s new kiwifruit history
There are “20 balls in the air” set to land at once to create the completed Kiwifruit Capital of the World Te Puke Heritage Visitor Centre
Project leader Sue Matthews said after about six months of leasing the bottom floor of the Capitol Theatre on Te Puke’s main street, the team had made extensive alterations.
The space was set to open in May as an immersive, walk-through celebration of the town ’ s kiwifruit history
The experience would begin in a darkened hallway designed to replicate native bush, complete with digital imagery of tall trees, waterfalls and the sounds of the forest.
Visitors would then move into a section focused on native wildlife, including displays on frogs, bats, kiwi and kākāriki, as well as predators and the community groups working to make areas predator-free
The story itself
From there, the journey would shift into the kiwifruit story itself, with large digital wall displays showing orchard scenes, pruning, packing and trucks loading fruit for export.
Another space would feature kiwifruit hanging from the ceiling and walls before leading into the former theatre area, which once seated about 200 people and had been completely gutted
Matthews said this space would include
backgrounds, where people could walk through, “feeling the vibe”.
a large ship installation showing kiwifruit being loaded for export, with male and female kiwifruit flowers - each about the size of a person - emerging from the walls, alongside a giant beehive and the growth cycle of the fruit.
Another area would focus on bees and pollination, including artificial pollination methods.
Visual experience
Matthews said the aim was to create a largely visual experience that was accessible to people of all ages and
A mini theatre was also under development, which would take visitors through the history of kiwifruit, postharvest processes and the technology behind the industry
While the heritage hub was still under development, the building had already begun hosting regular community movie screenings, with children’s films shown on the second Sunday of each month and adult movies on the fourth.
A recent screening of Downton Abbey
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Project leader Sue Matthews and her team made great headway in the last six months
hub nears opening
attracted 42 people across two sessions, which Matthews said helped the project break even
Community support has been a major driver of the project, with dozens of volunteers contributing their time and skills Everybody had been “really positive” and were coming up with “brilliant ideas”, Matthews said.
Whole community
People walking past often called out asking, “What can we do?” or “Can I help you with that?” “It just blows you away, ” Matthews said.
Volunteers have ranged from an 82-year-old helping in the kitchen to seasonal kiwifruit workers carrying furniture up flights of stairs, after donations from local organisations provided key fittings for the space. Matthews said the hub was designed to appeal to both locals and visitors, and to help people better understand the scale and complexity of the industry What she loved most about the project was that it was for the whole community, from kids through to older generations
If your bathroom is dull, dated or damp, don’t despair. A small, local husband-and-wife team who’ve specialised in bathroom renovations for 15-plus years in Tauranga can help
“If your bathroom needs a refresh, remodel, total renovation or small repair, call us today,” said Brian Williams and Tanya Nolan, who own and operate BW Builders & Bathroom Envy Williams, an experienced builder of 25-plus years and a Licensed Building Practitioner, can also tackle all those other small building jobs you require outside the bathroom too
BW Builders & Bathroom Envy achieves high-end finishes at competitive prices, said Nolan.
From their experience building bathrooms in different spaces and locations of homes, they know what works best and
what doesn’t. “We give honest advice and suggestions, whether it is to save dollars, or spend dollars in the best way, ” Nolan said She said Williams knows how to offer affordable and cost-effective solutions “Brian is an LBP and uses experienced and skilled contractors He can complete all your small renovation and building works ” Williams said he can look after any small building requirements, general maintenance, repairs and all those small jobs you have never quite got to or gave ‘band-aid’ repairs.
Nolan said as owner-operators they’re able to keep costs down “because we don’t have all the overheads of larger companies”. “You’re only paying for labour and materials costs of the job We also pass on trade discounts on materials and fittings for complete jobs.”
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Items that will be on display inside the Kiwifruit Capital of the World Te Pukke Heritage Visitor Centre to open in May Photos / Kelly O’Hara
Brian Williams and Tanya Nolan are the team behind BW Builders & Bathroom Envy. Photo / Supplied
Annabel Reid
The jazz festival is here!
All everyone is talking about at the moment is the jazz festival – it is now upon us
But possibly I have an unusual bunch of friends. Most people are talking about a thousand other things, 999 of them involving the skyrocketing price of well, everything.
On to jazz – The Port of Tauranga 63rd National Jazz Festival has begun!
Many think of it as just an Easter festival but things are under way already, with concerts this weekend at The Jam Factory, all of them special.
On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, March 27-29, Nigel Gavin and Richard Adams, two Nairobi Trio founders in a swinging violin and guitar duo, will perform – as will rockin’ pianist Jan Preston’s Boogie Duo; and ace be-bop guitarist Lockie Bennett and his trio
Before I go on, hats off to The Barrel Room on Wharf St whose jazz fest build-up has been simply brilliant, and continues. There’s live jazz in the street every Saturday afternoon, and music early on Friday and Saturday nights.
Latin-leaning jazz-funk
Tonight, March 27, it’s Duende, a great Latin-leaning jazz-funk outfit comprising Tristan Hancock on Spanish guitar and oud, Kelly Kahukiwa on saxophone, Adrian Laird on bass and percussionist James Hughes. Tomorrow, March 28, is trad blues from The Mike Garner Trio, featuring multi-instrumentalist Robbie Laven, and Grant Willis who doubles on bass and tuba Watching Haua play fast walking bass lines on the tuba is one of the wonders of the world
After the weekend it’s straight into Baycourt’s Youth Jazz Competition,
which never fails to amaze as each year kids from around the country seem to get better and better, often giving adult bands a run for their money.
Free music downtown
While there’s a plethora of free music downtown on Easter Saturday and Sunday afternoon, I’d like to guide you towards some of the paid concerts despite, as noted, living in cashstrapped times. Because there’s really good stuff coming.
Big bands kick things off with The Capital City Big Band delivering TNT! at Baycourt on Tuesday, March 31, and the Tauranga Big Band in action on Thursday, April 2, at Tauranga Boys’ College’s Graham Young Youth Theatre with big band interpretations of modern pop and rock songs
Half the Tauranga Big Band are back on Friday, April 3, when they become blues outfit Kokomo’s horn section for a wild and wonderful celebration of the band’s 35-year history That’s only one of the four Baycourt concerts during Easter weekend, the others being sensational New Orleansstyle clarinettist Adrian Cox, a sonic and visual journey through the Tao Te Ching with Waypeople – no I don’t know what to expect either but it sounds fascinating – and Nick Granville’s Funk and Drum Extravaganza on Saturday, April 4. Get those tickets now – it’s going to be fun!
Skateboarders roll into Mount for nationals
Skateboarding talent from across Aotearoa will descend on Mount Maunganui tomorrow March 28, as the 2026 Skateboard Nationals return to Tauranga for a second year.
Presented by Skateboarding New Zealand and Tauranga City Council, the free two day event will bring NZ’s top park and vert riders to the Mount’s Destination Skatepark and Blake Park Vert Ramp
Spectators can expect high energy action from some of New Zealand’s best athletes – including Zedyn Fellows and Cayden ‘CJ’ Hawker, local star Rico Falconer and seasoned competitor Shaun Boucher “National skateboarding competitions represent the pinnacle of competitive skateboarding in Aotearoa, help grow the sport and provide emerging talent with a pathway to higher-level competition, including the 2028 Olympic Games,” Skateboarding NZ co-chairperson Sophee Hill said.
The Skateboarding NZ 2026 National Championships’ Park & Vert contests are at Destination Skatepark and Blake Park Vert Ramp on March 28 Divisions include 12 & Under Boyys and Girls (Park); Oppen Men and Women (Park & Vert); and Open Best Trick (Vert) The rain date is March 29
Spin tracks to save birds
Youth jazz to create musical fireworks
The next generation of jazz talent will take centre stage in Tauranga when the 48th Wright Family Foundation National Youth Jazz Competition returns from March 30 to April 1 as part of the wider Port of Tauranga National Jazz Festival.
is unbelievably high, and the repertoire is challenging Expect musical fireworks ”
Adding to the excitement is the National Youth Jazz Competition Big Band, now in its second year The ensemble is made up of 18 outstanding students selected from 97 auditions, offering young musicians the opportunity to perform alongside other top players from around New Zealand
Electronic beats and conservation efforts will come together this weekend when Envirohub Bay of Plenty hosts its third annual Friends of the Bush benefit gig at Astrolabe Bar
The event will run 3pm-9pm tomorrow, March 28, bringing together DJs and live musicians for an afternoon and evening of music aimed at supporting local environmental initiatives.
Envirohub Backyards coordinator Te Ara Dirkse said the event blends entertainment with environmental purpose
“This event supports our native taonga through music and movement, ” said Dirkse. The gig will raise funds for predator control efforts across the region, with all ticket proceeds going towards purchasing five specialised traps that will be made available for public loan.
“This will support the mission of reducing predators in the Bay of Plenty and helping to protect our native birds and
bush,” Dirkse said She said the event will feature a carefully curated line-up of DJs and performers designed to take audiences on a musical journey
Acts will include Black Comet Sessions featuring Laughton Kora and Dan, delivering a live set blending soulful vocals with deep electronic grooves
Also on the bill are Zozo, who will bring UK garage sounds to the dancefloor; house producer Hooky with original productions; and Joe Knows serving up a mix of deep and Latin house
Rounding out the line-up are Peasoup with disco house rhythms and Lady Babz delivering disco, soul and funk.
Tickets cost $20 each, with proceeds supporting Predator Free Bay of Plenty initiatives
Dirkse said the event offers locals a chance to enjoy music while contributing to conservation efforts in the Bay of Plenty
“Grab your friends, grab your crew Come for the music, stay for the mission,” said Dirkse
Held at Baycourt Community & Arts Centre, the competition brings together some of the most talented young musicians from across the country This year the event has attracted 850 students from 42 secondary schools, featuring 62 combos and 29 big bands Competition manager Liam Ryan said the event highlights the incredible depth of young musical talent emerging from schools nationwide.
“The National Youth Jazz Competition features the best student players in the country, ” Ryan said “The level of playing
Competitors will perform in front of an experienced panel of judges drawn from the country ’ s leading jazz performers and educators.
“The four competition judges represent the best from across the New Zealand jazz scene: renowned broadcaster Nick Tipping, All Girl Big Band Director Lana Law, saxophone maestro Roger Manins, and piano whizz Ben Wilcock,” Ryan said
Across three days audiences can expect remarkable musicianship and perhaps a glimpse of the future of jazz in New Zealand.
For more information, go to: www jazz org nz
Mirage playing to the crowd at Astrolabe. Photo / Supplied
Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Tauranga Girls’ College Big Band, conducted by musical director Paul Hoskin, performing in the National Youth Jazz Competition at Baycourt in 2023. Photo / Supplied
Churches Active In Our Community Trust in the One
“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world (John 16:33) ”
Are you a glass half full or glass half empty kind of person? Are you a pessimist or optimist? Perhaps a little of both?
You could say there are grains of truth in both these views This year already has seen its share of trouble; in the world and closer to home But then, there are also many blessings, if we pay attention Keeping these truths in tension is what the Bible does In John 16:33 Jesus was preparing his disciples for what would happen the following day – his crucifixion He was also preparing them for the persecution
EASTER SERVICES
2 April
7pm St Mary Immaculate (After the Mass Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament until 10pm) Reconciliation: 9-10pm St Mary Immaculate Good Friday 3 April
9am Stations of the Cross, St Joseph’s, Te Puna 11am Stations of
to come So Jesus was realistic about the world Yet, he knew that death would not have the final word Jesus knew, and we now know, that he would rise again, that injustice and death would not overcome him In fact on the cross, Jesus did something to rescue the world from its sin, bringing about healing, forgiveness and reconciliation between us and God. Therefore, despite what the world throws at you, hold on to the hope that Jesus offers.
Remember that while pessimism leads to despair and optimism to naivety, faith in Christ offers hope and peace in this world
This coming Easter, why not take heart and trust in the One who overcame the world?
The Easter story…
Did y after “last discipl the Ga
Judas, betrayed were sol Jesus kn going to prayed a God’s w the gard
ou know that Jesus, He had shared the supper ” with His es, goes with them to rden of Gethsemane?
the disciple who Him, was there as diers and many people ew exactly what was happen He’d just nd surrendered to ill when He prayed in en er of the disciples, Peter, whips out his sword and cuts off the ear of the High Priest’s Servant, a man called Malchus Peter denied Jesus three times, then takes matters into his own hands When he used sword power he could only cut off ears; but later he was a transformed man as using the power of the Word of God, he pierced hearts for God’s glory See Acts 2:37
Jesus stopped this foolish and ineffective bloodshed by saying, “Permit even this” Colloquially we might render these words, ‘Stop it! No more of this!’
But note this: Jesus immediately touched Malchus’ ear and healed him Wow! Do you know why?
Because Peter could have faced the death penalty for doing that under the law at that time So here we have Jesus, about to go to the agony of the Cross, and knowing that Peter would deny Him three times, exercises redemption Malchus’ ear was healed There’s now no evidence of any crime committed.
That’s the Easter story right there for you and me No evidence of any sin Forgiven Free Redemption You and I, like Peter, can be forgiven.
Mike Kirkby-Sing, Bethlehem Community Church
Stephen Whitwell, C3 City Church, Tauranga
The Garden of Gethsemane today
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