The Weekend Sun - 24 April 2026

24 April 2026, Issue 1307

RNZAF Flying Officer Malcolm Stark Wells

Service number 43171, was an unsung war hero.

No Victoria Cross, no laurels, no public acclaim, but his WWII service to King, country and family warrants celebration. This is a story about how Hitler broke two families, and how they rallied against the tyranny.

Read the story on pages 2-4.

Photo / Supplied

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The Weekend Sun

2 The Weekend Sun is published every Friday and distributed throughout the Western Bay of Plenty from Waihi Beach, through Katikati, Tauranga, Mount Maunganui, Papamoa and Te Puke and available to collect at many stand locations throughout the area. For a full list of stand locations see https://theweekendsun.co.nz/stand-locations.html The Weekend Sun is part of NZME - New Zealand Media & Entertainment. We keep Kiwis in the know. Locally produced at 405 Cameron Rd, Tauranga

Editor: Merle Cave Editorial: Letitia Atkinson, Rosalie Liddle Crawford, Hunter Wells, Ayla Yeoman. Publications Manager: Kathy Sellars.

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‘Solemn the drums thrill...

“To Hunter, Love and Christmas greetings…”

A hand- scrawled note in a tiny illustrated New Testament. Been in my drawer since 1960 – sentimentality rather than any religious conviction. “…from Auntie Jeanie and Uncle Frank.” The 6/- price tag also pencilled points to its age.

The unwrapped gift was slipped to me moments before we all clasped hands around a chicken and trifle family Christmas lunch.

Heads bowed, eyes closed, while white mophaired Uncle Frank, an earnest Presbyterian minister in his dog collar, invocated on our

Guiding words from frr Uncle Frank.

behalf – beseeching his God to bless us with love, protection, guidance and wisdom. “Amen to that,” said Dad. “There has to be someone out there in the universe, who’s way smarter than us, and who can bring sense to it all.”

Because there had been little or no sense. Here we were – two families thrust together by war, by an evil, genocidal, megalomaniac called Hitler, by an act of supreme sacrifice, by love lost and love won, by an emerald engagement ring – and by a central leading lady, my mother Eunice Olive, or ‘Billie’ or ‘Bill’. Billie because she had been a tom boy. A beautiful one.

And had this crazy fusion of people and circumstances unravelled ever so differently, I wouldn’t If huma ld ’ be b here. h h anity, decency, and right had prevailed, insttead of a filthy war, I would not have been b born. It had been a close thing.

Dashing, swashb buckling

Uncle Frank and Aun ntie Jeanie were parents of Allan Stead – a Kiwi fighter pilot stationed with the RAF No 485 NZ Squadron in Driffi ffield in Yorkshire. I knew him in name on nly but I had a child’s romantic, comic bookk image of him – a dashing, swashbucklin ng Spitfire pilot draped in flowing wh hite silk scarf and leather flying helmett. Dog fighting his way through the Baattle of Britain, scourge of Göring’s Luftwaff ffe. I imagined him shouting “Danger R Red Section!” at sight of incomingg enemyy. Or “One down!” as

Unsung hero, RNZAF Flying Officer Malcolm Stark Wells, service number 43171. Photos / Supplied

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Friday 24 April 2026

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Death august and royal, Sings sorrow up into immortal spheres...’ a Messerschmitt fell away in flames.

For Allan, for Dad, for everyone, for everything. My other war hero, the one who did come home, my Dad, RNZAF Pilot Officer Malcolm Stark Wells, service number 43171, would squeeze what little misery was left from Auntie Jeanie, smile reassuringly and say: “There, there”. It seems pats, hugs and “there theres” put right most ills.

Ghastly, tragic mess

But one day the comic story didn’t end as scripted. On January 6, 1945, Stead dive-bombed a train in Western Holland.

The train exploded and the Spitfire was peppered with shrapnel. A plane crashed, a pilot died, Uncle Frank and Auntie Jeanie were bereft a son, and only child.

My mother, Billie, lost a love, a man she probably would have married. An emerald engagement ring became a keepsake. And I lost one of my two war heroes. What a ghastly, tragic mess.

A few years later, far from the clamour of war, the “alone again” WAAF, or Women’s Auxiliary Air Force, radio/telephone operator Billie, met a shy, suave and sensitive ex-RNZAF Lancaster bomber crewman Malcolm Wells while punting on a river near Dunedin. This time Hitler played no part and Billie made it to the altar. I am one of her four sons.

The cast

Uncle Frank and Auntie Jeanie stayed in our lives. They adopted us – or we adopted them. We became a surrogate “grand-family”. They shared our Christmas chicken and trifle. Billie played the daughter-in-law who never was, Dad doubled for a son and lover lying in a Belgian cemetery, and we boys were stand-ins for the grandkids the Steads never had. It worked perfectly for everyone. We each had a role in this real-life, post-war, soap opera, and we played the roles with dignity and respect, compassion and understanding. Uncle Frank’s prayer was working. And life was as good as we made it.

‘Blitzed! Flattened!’

The WAAF - Eunice ‘Billie’ Miles.

Haunting lament

It did explain why every Christmas Day Auntie Jeanie would take my father’s hands, gaze wistfully at him, and then draw him to her and weep. A haunting lament for the dead. A mother wanted her son back. She wanted Allan back. And all the time crying her love and acceptance of another man who was there for her when Allan couldn’t be.

And while Auntie Jeanie clung to Dad, Billie clung to us kids and wept. Tears of sadness, joy and gratitude. They would fall on us. And she would apologise, and giggle, and sob, all at the same time.

Dad fought his war at about 20,000 feet, in the bowels of a Lancaster bomber on night ops, in high-stress, claustrophobic and severely cold conditions.

He never discussed the business end of war – the slaughter, the ruination, the stress. Good men didn’t. So this schoolboy’s impressions were shaped by storybooks and comics glorifying war. But many years later I discovered Dad’s wartime photo album with grainy black and white reconnaissance photos of Essen in Western Germany. Or what was left of it. The strategic industrial city had been blitzed, flattened, scorchearthed. Did Dad have a role in the Battle of the Ruhr, where the Allies bombed it into oblivion, flattening 90% of the city and killing 21,000 people? These ops also came at considerable human cost to Bomber Command which suffered the highest casualty rate of any service. German night fighters and anti-aircraft flak, claimed 55,000 of 125,000 Lancaster aircrew – nearly 46%. Dad was blessed. We were blessed.

Understanding beautiful

Dad would talk of the lumbering Lancaster warhorses as a “beautiful beast” Beautiful? We teenage boys ogled images of Raquel Welch and Claudia Cardinale

and thought we understood “beautiful”.

Seems not. And he would hum at the thought of four V12 Rolls Royce Merlin engines winding up to get a 6500kg payload of bombs off the deck and into the night sky.

I did get a sense of Dad’s “beautiful” when, at Auckland’s Museum of Transport and Technology, they cranked up one of the engines on the Lancaster exhibit. There was a high-pitched whine, and a deep rumble as an old aircraft fought back from the dead. Then a huge, dense cloud of smoke and a rhythmic engine roar. Grown men in overalls, with black greasy hands and spanners, who’d been crawling over the “beautiful beast” stood back, dabbed their eyes and cheered. I now understood Dad’s “beautiful”.

‘…leben sie wohl!’

Even after Hitler uttered “Es ist aus, leben sie wohl” – “It is finished, goodbye” – and skulked off into the bunker with a 7.65mm Walther PPK pistol and one shot in the breech, Dad’s war wasn’t done. Back home in Dunedin, he would clamber aboard the overnight express every second weekend and travel to Sunnyside mental asylum in Christchurch, where his brother was fighting back from three years in a German POW (Prisoner of War) camp.

Hitler’s inhumanity didn’t stop at invading, bombing, shooting and gassing.

But Dad’s commitment paid – and one day my uncle walked out of the asylum and into the arms of a new bride.

And he and Dad remained life-long, best buddy brothers.

...continued on page 4

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4

Malcolm and Billie, forever holdings hands in Dunedin Murdered my Dad

In 1970, about 25 years after WWII, Hitler struck again with a final act of wickedness from beyond the grave. Dad, a 49-year-old draughtsman, was walking to work when he collapsed from a heart attack. Many bomber aircrew died of heart attacks compared to the general population. It was put it down to the severe, sustained and unique stressors they endured.

Medics broke just about every rib trying to kick-start that chest. And they broke

hearts when their best efforts failed. It was like the Fuhrer himself, in a final heinous act, had taken up his Walther PPK pistol and shot Malcolm Stark through the heart.

Hitler, the despicable, murderous bastard, killed my Dad. For what?

The man who mowed me a cricket pitch on the back lawn, the man who shucked sacks of Bluff oysters with me Saturday morning, who hated racism. The man who always listened, who taught me to laugh at Neddy Seagoon trying to set fire to the English Channel on radio’s Goon Show, who made pink and white coconut ice Friday night, and roast rabbit and stuffing sandwiches for school Monday, and who, embarrassingly, would hold Mum’s hand wherever they went – yes, that man was gone. I would lie in bed at night and weep.

I struggled with the immensity of it all. I felt cheated. Still do.

A few days later, the uncle took me to view Dad’s body. I wasn’t sure about it.

Tears, single malts

“We will both feel better,” he assured me. Moments later, standing either side of an open casket, the uncle gently took my hand and held it to my father’s cheek. It lingered there and we smiled as we wept. I was grateful for the moment Later, as we sipped healing single malts in a suburban bar, my uncle shared a favourite Malcolm

Stark story. Dad had told him he had an “god-given” altimeter. He would get sexually aroused as the Lancaster took off and gained height. The brothers called it an “airplane boner”, and regardless of all the contributing physical, psychological and environmental factors, they just thought it hilariously funny. So did dad’s air crew. As the Lancaster climbed after take-off, the pilot would call through: “Are we high enough yet Malcolm?” The crew would hoot. Levity before confronting the awful odds in the night sky over Germany.

Dabbling and doodling

Although Billie was still a relatively young and elegant woman, that was that. She had lost two men from her life. “I have had my husband thank you very much.” Yes, that was that. And several would-be suitors at

her dance club were politely declined.

When he had a spare hour, Dad would dabble with short stories and pencil-sketch sailing ships. His regular ‘John Citizen’ Letters to the Editor campaigned on social issues like funding for surf lifesavers.

People who risked their lives to save lives, he reckoned, should be compensated.

He would doodle on our homework – a WWII meme like ‘Kilroy was here’.

Teachers loved his artwork and marked it 8/10. There were extremes in my war hero’s life – from deadly bombing runs to pencil mischief.

His ideal Sunday afternoon was visiting a local aerodrome to watch gliders soar and NAC’s DC-3 service from Christchurch plop down. In his head and heart, he was at the controls. And the frustrated aviator would make up model aeroplane kits. Lancasters of course – “beautiful beasts!”

Treachery

One day he brought the “enemy” home – a model German Heinkell 111 and Junkers 88. I was deeply offended. I did not want the enemy at my place. He let the matter settle and then sat me down.

“Do you know who flew those planes?” he asked. Germans of course. “Yes. Germans.

Human beings – like us,” he declared.

“And when they didn’t return home, German mothers wept and grieved too.”

Like Auntie Jeanie? “Exactly! Like Auntie Jeanie!”

Many years later an emerald engagement ring was passed on to a young bride-to-be at a Dunedin department store where Billie worked. Perhaps she decided it was time to unburden herself of some darkness.

Malcolm and Billie make it to the altar.

Photo / Supplied

Or she believed the ring might bring better fortune on the fourth finger of another left hand. We never did get the full story of any of it – just guarded titbits fed over time. In 2011, a memorial church window to Allan Stead was destroyed when the Canterbury earthquakes rattled Rangiora. Malcolm and Billie are forever holding hands in block 9a, plot 40, at the Andersons Bay RSA Cemetery in Dunedin.

“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die” – Thomas Campbell Hunter Wells

The couple who got their retirement back

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Patricia’s internal alarm goes off at 5am every morning. It has done this for 50 years.

Her eyes open. The bedroom is still dark. The house is quiet except for the first birds starting their chorus. She’s awake. But she’s not really awake.

“I lie there feeling like I’ve been hit by a truck,” the 73-year-old explains. “My body clock would wake me up right on time, but the rest of me hasn’t caught up.”

At 73, Patricia still tends to her garden, takes daily walks through town, and catches local shows when they come through. Her husband, 75, does the same. They’re the kind of couple who’ve been married so long they walk in sync without thinking about it.

Retirement was supposed to be their reward for decades of work.

“We earned this,” Patricia says. “We did everything right. Retirement was supposed to be when we finally got to enjoy it all.”

But somewhere around 60, sleep started changing. Not dramatically at first, just lighter, less restorative. Then her husband began experiencing the same thing. Now instead of waking at 5am ready for the day, they were both waking feeling drained and not excited for the day.

The morning walks became harder first. Then the garden became a chore. By lunchtime, they’d both be exhausted.

“The worst part was watching each other decline,” Patricia admits. “He was grumpy. I was snappy. We just weren’t ourselves.”

The crystallising moment came on a Thursday evening. They’d bought tickets to a local show.

At 6:30pm, Patricia found her husband

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The Weekend Sun

Anzac Day services Anzac Day commemorations will be held across Tauranga tomorrow, April 25, marking one of New Zealand’s most significant days of national remembrance.

Each year, a collective effort from the city and Western Bay of Plenty RSAs, councils, defence personnel, community groups and volunteers ensures the day is commemorated with care and respect.

Tauranga City services

5.45am – Tauranga Moana Tumatauenga Commemoration, Hangarau Marae, 219 Bethlehem Rd, Bethlehem.

6am – Pāpāmoa Memorial Dawn Service, Pāpāmoa Memorial, Stella Place beach car park, Pāpāmoa Beach Rd. 6am – Mount Maunganui Dawn Service, Mount Maunganui Cenotaph, opposite Hopukiore, Mt Drury.

6am – Tauranga Dawn Service, Memorial Field, Memorial Park, Eleventh Ave. 9.30am – Tauranga Civic Memorial Service, Memorial Field, Memorial Park, Eleventh Ave. 11am – Pyes Pā Remembrance Service, Pyes Pā Memorial Full details at: www.tauranga.govt.nz/ anzacday

Friday 24 April 2026

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Park and ride services

Free and accessible park and ride buses will be available for the Tauranga Dawn Service, Service Tauranga Civic Memorial Service, Service and Mount Maunganui Dawn Service.

View more information at: www. tauranga.govt.nz

Western Bay services

6am - Dawn Parade and Service at the Waihī Beach RSA 6am - Tuapiro Marae Dawn Service, 24 Hikurangi Road, Katikati 6am – Katikati Dawn Service in front of Katikati War Memorial Hall 9.50am - Te Puke Civic Parade follow by 10am Civic Service at Te Puke War Memorial Hall 6am – Ōmokoroa Dawn Service at Remembrance Cairn, Gerald Crapp Historic Reserve 10.30am - Service at Oropi Memorial Hall and Community Centre 6am – Maketu Dawn Service at the Remembrance Rock, Park Rd Reserve

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Taste, play and explore on Te Puke’s Kids Kai Trail Families in Te Puke are being invited to step out and explore their community through food, learning and play at the upcoming Kids Kai Trail on May 2.

Centre. Along the way, families can enjoy Giggles Early Learning Centre teacher Ayla garden-fresh treats, interactive activities Poinga with Julian Chadwick, 2, and Te-Awaiti and opportunities to learn about healthy Wharearere, 4. Photo / Kelly O’Hara eating.

Giggles Early Learning Centre manager Shona Ua-Marsh said the event is a Running from 10am-1pm, the free event highlight for the centre and the wider community. is part of the wider Flavours of Plenty “We did one last year, our first one, and festival, a Bay of Plenty-wide celebration this will be the second one,” she said. of local food and produce.

“Even though it’s in our backyard, the The Kids Kai Trail offers a hands-on, community garden supplies the local family-friendly experience where tamariki can explore, taste and learn alongside their pātaka kai and supports the community.

It’s also taken care of by the children – it’s parents. The trail begins at Jubilee Park’s their classroom.”

Te Puke Community Gardens before Ua-Marsh said the Kids Kai Trail reflects winding its way through Giggles Early Learning Centre and the Te Puke Heritage the centre’s holistic approach to learning, where Tamariki (children) are actively w featuring a trampoline, flying fox and involved in planting planting, harvesting and sandpit. sandpit sharing food.

Other highlights along the trail include “They’re learning about being able to making a garden-fresh snack at the plant and harvest, and manaakitanga – community gardens and visiting the Capitol Theatre to watch a short film and learn sharing and supporting our community.

Haydn about the “three kete of knowledge” around It’s about teaching them in a holistic way, healthy eating, alongside tasting local including our Māori values.” kiwifruit treats.

The event is a collaborative effort led by Entry to the Kids Kai Trail is free, with COLAB Community Trust, with input Mozart only children needing to register. Dietary from a range of local organisations and LAUDATE DOMINUM requirements, including gluten-free and businesses.

PIANO SONATA IN C, K330 dairy-free options, can be catered for.

Ua-Marsh said planning begins well in FT ESHA XU Organisers said the event is a chance for advance, with a focus on making the event families to connect with local food, spaces bigger and better each year. “We work together to enhance our community in ways and each other. “Bring the whānau and take a stroll,” Ua-Marsh said. we can all support it. We all collaborate St Peters Anglican Church St George & St John “It’s about enjoying what we have here and and talk about how we can make it more 15 Victoria Road Anglican Church enjoyable and get the community involved.” celebrating our community.”

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The Weekend Sun

Friday 24 April 2026

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Passenger train returns to the Kaimai Tunnel after 14 years Tickets for the first passenger train trip through the Kaimai Tunnel in 14 years sold out in two days.

The excursion, run by Glenbrook Vintage Railway, departs on May 2 and will be hauled by heritage diesel locomotives DC4818 and DBR1254.

It will carry travellers from Auckland to the Bay of Plenty on a one-off return service.

Once in Tauranga, two short local excursions will carry passengers around Mount Maunganui or to the foothills of the Kaimai Range at Whatakao.

Glenbrook Vintage Railway’s Sean Heenan said significant behind the scenes work had gone into securing access to one of the busiest rail corridors in the country.

“The line in and around Tauranga is very scenic, and much like many of the other trips we do, most of the scenery you can’t see any other way than by rail travel.”

The route forms part of the “Golden Triangle” freight network that links the nation’s busiest port with New Zealand’s largest city.

Pave the way

Heenan said it was a great opportunity for locals to travel in their own backyard.

Tourism Bay of Plenty general manager Oscar Nathan said the region was looking forward to welcoming passengers to a

buzzing city centre.

“The Kaimai Express visit will coincide with the final weekend of our 18-day Flavours of Plenty Festival and several other city centre event activations, so it’s definitely shaping up to be a special day.”

Nathan said Tourism Bay of Plenty hoped the visit would pave the way for more rail based tourism experiences.

Tauranga local Kelvin Egaleton, who first rode a Glenbrook train more than 50 years ago, said a permanent passenger service around the Golden Triangle should be a priority.

“The benefit of rail for the city is cheap, fast transport and removing cars from the road. I have lived and worked in cities that have fast rail transport, and it is great.”

Advocacy group The Future Is Rail spokeswoman Lindsey Horne said the strong response showed a clear public appetite for a passenger rail connection.

Wake-up call

“Tauranga hasn’t seen a scheduled passenger service since 2001. In those 25 years, the city’s population has exploded, yet our transport options have remained stuck in the past.”

Horne said the trip’s success should be a wake up call for decision makers about Tauranga’s rail future.

“This trip shows the infrastructure is

The Mount Maunganui Express will cross the Matapihi Rail Bridge and causeway. Photo / John Borren

A heritage rail excursion will take passengers through the Kaimai Tunnel for the first time in 14 years. Photo / Supplied

already there, and the community is ready to use it. What’s needed now is action.”

The Kaimai Express

The sold out service leaves Waiuku before heading east across the Waikato, travelling through Ruakura and Morrinsville to Waharoa Junction.

From there, the train continues towards the western portal of the 8.9km Kaimai Tunnel.

Passengers will spend about 10 minutes travelling beneath the Kaimai Range before emerging near Whatakao.

The train runs along the coastline into Tauranga, a stretch usually travelled only by freight crews.

Passengers will be able to take in the scenery from open air viewing balconies.

Once in Tauranga, two short local excursions will run to showcase the city’s rail network.

The Mount Maunganui Express will cross the Matapihi Rail Bridge and causeway, offering views across Tauranga Harbour.

It then travels through the fringe of Mount Maunganui and arrives beside the Port of Tauranga and Bay Oval.

Meanwhile, the Kaimai Coast Express follows the harbour through Te Puna and Ōmokoroa, then climbs inland past orchards and packhouses toward Apata.

The journey ends with crossing the Wainui River Viaduct, before reaching Zoe Blake Whatakao.

Double Pass Giveaway!

Thanks to Glenbrook Vintage Railway, The Weekend Sun has a double pass to give away to two lucky readers who can tell us how many years since it has been since the last passenger train trip went through the Kaimai Tunnel?

To enter, visit wwwsunlive.co.nz and click on the ‘competitions’ tab. Entries must be in by Tuesday, April 28.

Friday 24 April 2026

Racing ban means hundreds of greyhounds need homes

Hundreds of greyhounds will need homes when a greyhound racing ban comes into effect this August.

The Racing Industry (Closure of Greyhound Racing Industry) Amendment Bill passed its third and final reading in NZ Parliament on April 2 with a 112-11 vote in Parliament.

The legislation would formally end commercial greyhound racing on August 1, 2026.

Tauranga-based volunteers for a greyhound adoption charity – and greyhound owners themselves – say the gentle-natured breed makes a perfect pet for Tauranga’s young families and retirees.

Adoption day

Tauranga-based Greyhounds as Pets volunteers Lauren Kramer and her motherin-law Sandy Henderson are hosting an adoption promotion day at Pet Essentials in Greerton on May 16 from 10am-2pm.

Kramer encouraged anyone who was interested in learning more to come along.

“There’ll be a few volunteers, and we’re hoping to have a couple of adoptable greyhounds there.”

Her greyhound Marcel and Henderson’s greyhound Merc would both be there.

Kramer said greyhounds were “lowmaintenance”.

Her greyhound Marcel was happy with one half-hour walk per day.

“He just loves to be out and about with you.”

Kramer said nothing fazed him. Marcel

joined her at family gatherings, and he greeted every dog he met on his walks.

“I take him out and about for lunch dates.”

Kramer said she takes a travel mat for Marcel to sit on at a cafe or restaurant.

She knew nothing about greyhounds before adopting Marcel. It was her partner’s idea.

‘Just fell in love’

However, she had a meet-and-greet with Marcel and “just fell in love”.

“Now we’re coming up on four years together.”

Henderson adopted her greyhound Merc on January 23.

She said Merc was “quite hard work in the beginning”, which was common with greyhounds.

He had not experienced urban life before. He moved from the kennel to the racetrack, then from the racetrack to the kennel.

Henderson said she teamed up with another greyhound owner near her, which helped Merc’s confidence. “He’s really good now. He’s getting better and better with urban settings.”

Henderson said she would advise anyone who adopts a greyhound to be patient.

“It’s just a time thing. They’re not like other dogs. They haven’t experienced life outside the racetrack.”

Merc had been out of racing and in the kennels for 12 months before Henderson adopted him. She said greyhounds become very attached to their owners.

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The Weekend Sun

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Greyhounds as Pets volunteers Lauren Kramer with greyhound Marcel and Sandy Henderson with greyhound Merc. Photo / Kelly O’Hara

“They need companionship.

“Retired people are probably really suitable because they’re home all day and they can hang out with their dog.”

Greyhounds as Pets manager Lisa Philp said the adoption service would be “doing what we’ve always done, but on a bigger scale”.

1000 and 1500

She said there were 200 or 300 dogs on the waiting list at any one time, but there would be between 1000 and 1500 when the ban took effect on August 1.

Philp said the organisation GAP needed volunteers and foster homes.

“The more dogs we have in foster, the more dogs we have available to us quickly to get into homes.”

After a dog leaves the kennels, it could take two to three weeks before it was ready to be matched with an applicant.

The process was quicker for the respective owners. Philp said they could be matched

with a dog immediately if a suitable dog was available and the applicant was ready.

The gentleness and low exercise requirement of greyhounds generally suited the young families and retirees in the Bay of Plenty, Philp said.

Regular events

Philp said she intended to schedule regular Greyhounds as Pets adoption events in the Bay of Plenty.

Racing Minister Winston Peters welcomed this month’s passing of legislation to end greyhound racing, saying it was a decisive step that reflected the clear will of New Zealanders and delivered certainty for animal welfare, industry participants and the public.

“The passing of this Bill enables the establishment of a transition agency to oversee the wind down of racing and the rehoming of dogs, and we are now moving into the formal setup phase,” Peters said at the start of this month.

Bijou Johnson

The Weekend Sun

Friday 24 April 2026

9

Loyall, gentlle, afffectionate and d full of ‘zoomies’ of “zoomies”.

While Art won’t chase a ball, he’ll break into unexpected and brief sprints around our home – usually before dinner time.

Trying every piece of

furniture in the house, and eagerly watching his dinner be dished up, are two of his signature traits.

And every time I relax my hand, nine times out of 10 it lands upon a furry head.

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Bijou Johnson with her family’s pet greyhound, Art. Photo / Kelly O’Hara

NZME Bay of Plenty multimedia journalist Bijou Johnson shares her family’s experience adopting a greyhound from the Greyhounds as Pets organisation.

Dogs are man’s best friend – a sentiment that holds true for greyhounds.

When you adopt a greyhound, you gain a friend you didn’t know you needed.

My family had been without a pet for a few months after the death of our previous family dog. The house felt quieter, cleaner, peaceful. We couldn’t stand it.

Our last dog, a Rhodesian Ridgeback, had greyhound in him, so my mother decided to browse the dogs available for adoption on the Greyhounds as Pets website.

As soon as she saw a picture of a brindle greyhound named Art, she knew he was her dog. It was love at first sight. We adopted him at the beginning of 2022.

Art, like most greyhounds, was nervous when we first met him at his foster home. He kept his distance, tail between his legs.

But the more time he spent with us, the more comfortable he became.

He let my mother pat him by the end of our first visit. They’ve been inseparable ever since.

Like all pets, greyhounds need attention, care, and patience.

Having spent their early years in kennels and on the race track, they don’t know anything else.

Once they leave that environment, everything is new to them.

New sounds and smells, new people and places.

They will be anxious and uneasy as they transition from one life to another.

But the patience a greyhound owner practises during that time will pay off.

Greyhounds are loyal, gentle, affectionate, and full

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Friday 24 April 2026

The Weekend Sun

10

City regains trampoline park

Tauranga families will rejoice that the city will again have an indoor trampoline park, when a new facility opens next month.

SlamJump has been created at Mercury Baypark by Tauranga entrepreneur Cameron Templer, who said the project was driven by a desire to fill a gap in family-friendly entertainment in the city. “I’m really excited to bring some family entertainment to Tauranga,” he said. “It’s been a long time since there’s been something for kids, particularly those aged 8 and over.”

Lockdowns, rent

Templer said he estimated it had been roughly four years since the city had a permanent trampoline park open that was aimed at youth aged 8-plus. “That second Covid-19 lockdown really solidified the market,” Templer said.

“I can also tell you that commercial rents are high, which doesn’t make it easy to run a facility. With SlamJump being at Mercury Baypark, it is run by Bay Venues Ltd, which is a council-controlled organisation – they have been very supportive of us because they want to see this type of facility on offer to youth in the city.”

Templer said the new trampoline adventure park would feature a range of attractions under one roof – including trampolines, a large playground, bouldering walls, giant inflatable slides and a dedicated toddler area. The facility is aimed at children aged 0-15, but parents are encouraged to join in the fun as well.

which he’d promoted on social media and had seen thousands engage with the announcements and strong early demand for bookings.

“We’ve already got 11 birthday parties booked for opening day, which is pretty incredible,” he said. “There’s clearly a lot of excitement from families who have been missing this kind of activity in Tauranga.”

In storage

Seven days

Templer said the idea had been years in the making, with much of the equipment sourced from his family’s previous business, the Bay Indoor Sports Centre, which operated on Newton St in Mount Maunganui before closing during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We packed up all the equipment and put it into storage and have been looking for the right venue ever since,” he said.

“When the Baypark pavilion became available, we jumped at the opportunity.”

Templer said he had taken over ownership of the business and would operate it independently, although his family had been helping with the set-up.

Templer would not disclose the amount it had cost to set up the business.

He said he expected to employ 12 staff to operate SlamJump,

SlamJump will be open seven days a week, with sessions from 9.30am-3pm weekdays and 9.30am-5pm on weekends, public holidays and during school holidays.

While online bookings were available, Templer said capacity limits would mean entry could not always be guaranteed – particularly during the opening weekend. “We suggest coming early,” he said. “We’re expecting to hit capacity quickly, so we may need to introduce timed sessions for the opening week to make sure as many people as possible get a chance to experience it.”

220 people

Templer said the facility could accommodate up to 220 people at a time and would cater for parties, with bring-your-own food options initially available while work on an on-site café

Cameron Templer outside SlamJump which will be opening in May.

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was completed.

He was also awaiting a final shipment of equipment and safety gear from overseas ahead of opening day, with tight timeframes adding to the challenge.

Despite the logistical hurdles, Templer said the project was

ultimately about giving back to the community. “This business is for the city. I love Tauranga, and this is something I knew the city needed.”

SlamJump’s official opening on May 23 would include a special guest to mark the occasion. Rosalie Liddle Crawford

The Weekend Sun

Friday 24 April 2026

11

Tauranga men net second national netball title community, Walters said. “Players who may have previously represented other regions are now able to train, develop, and compete locally,” Walters said.

“It’s also created opportunities for experienced coaches and players to give back within their own community.”

At junior level, boys can play netball up to age 13 under Netball New Zealand regulations, and Tauranga had allowed boys to participate in college competitions since 2023, with one male player permitted on court at a time.

Beyond college

The Tauranga Men’s Netball team following their win at the NZ Men’s Netball Nationals in Wellington. Photo / Supplied

A Tauranga men’s netball team has claimed its second national title in two years – after four seasons of playing.

The team – part Tauranga Netball Centre – won Reserve One at the NZMMNA New Zealand Men’s Netball Nationals 2026 in Wellington at Easter weekend.

Team manager Ang Hays said the achievement was a proud moment for the growing code locally.

“We took out the Reserve One title this year, and last year we won Reserve Two, so to go back-to-back and move up into B grade is huge for us,” she said.

Tauranga Netball Centre (TNC) manager Tracy Walters said Ephraim Ormsby approached the centre in 2023, asking for a men’s team to be included in grading for the Open Women’s Premier Competition.

“Following consultation with existing premier teams, approval was granted,” Walters said. “The team competed in the women’s premier competition for two seasons, which ultimately led to the establishment of a dedicated Men’s Premier League in 2025.”

This season, additional to the representative team competing on the national stage, TNC was fielding four teams in the Open Men’s Premier competition.

Strong foundations

This made it one of the few regions of comparative size in New Zealand offering a structured competition at that level, Walters said.

“We recognise there is still more to be done, but the foundations are strong, and the interest is definitely growing,” she said.

The men’s representative programme was

formally established last season when TNC affiliated with the New Zealand Men’s and Mixed Netball Association.

Walters credited the team’s recent success to strong coaching, organisation and culture.

“It comes down to strong coaching and management, but also the players’ attitudes and commitment,” she said. “They’ve really bought into the programme.”

At the nationals at Easter, teams competed across A grade, B grade, Reserve One, under-20s and Masters divisions.

Tauranga’s promotion to B grade places them one step below the country’s top-tier competition.

“The goal now is to push into A grade,” Hays said. “That’s where your top NZ men’s players are.”

She said the team’s win was more notable given the challenges facing the sport – some grades shrunk in size this year due to travel costs and timing of the Easter tournament.

Despite that, Tauranga’s squad showed determination – bolstered by players returning from overseas, she said.

One big family

But Walters said the transition from school to senior men’s netball remained a challenge, with players lost to other regions

offering different formats of the game.

“One of the gaps we see is the pathway beyond college,” she said. “An indoor nets netball competition in Tauranga would help provide more development opportunities and keep more players in the game locally.”

Walters said TNC was focused on strengthening the men’s programme via improved funding structures, increased participation and clearer pathways for players, coaches and officials.

“We’re also looking at establishing a separate constitution to support funding as the programme grows,” Walters said.

“We are confident the game will continue to grow and provide meaningful opportunities for all involved.”

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Ormsby, now based in Melbourne, travelled home to compete alongside fellow player Maanaki Tai from Ōpōtiki. “To have their experience and knowledge come back into the team has been huge, especially for our younger players,” Hays said.

She also highlighted the strong sense of community within men’s netball.

“It’s like one big family. The environment is amazing, and that’s a big reason why the guys keep coming back. They love the game, but they also love being part of the team.”

Moreover, the men’s success was being felt across the wider Tauranga netball

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Open Day Saturday 2 May, 10am–2pm Different villages for different lifestyles.

Every Metlifecare retirement village feels a little different.

Take a tour and see which one feels right. For more information contact your local village or visit metlifecare.co.nz The Avenues Tauranga Jamie | 07 544 7711

Bayswater Village Mt Maunganui Amy | 07 547 4175

Pāpāmoa Beach Village Pāpāmoa Beach Amy | 07 547 4175

Bay Sands Village Mt Maunganui Amy | 07 547 4175

For the full list of villages participating in Metlifecare Open Weekend visit metlifecare.co.nz/nationalopenday

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Greenwood Park Tauranga Jamie | 07 544 7711

The Weekend Sun

Friday 24 April 2026

13

Original name returned to waterfall reserve Ōmanawa Falls Reserve will officially have its original name, Te Rere o Ōmanawa, restored.

Tauranga City Council approved changing to the name given to the reserve

by Ngāti Hangarau.

The reserve south of Tauranga features a 35m waterfall famed for its beauty.

Ngāti Hangarau Hapū Trust chairman Koro Nicholas told Tuesday’s council meeting, “It’s not a renaming exercise, it’s recognising the name.”

Councillors debated whether the reserve should be dual-named in English and Te Reo. Pāpāmoa ward councillor Steve Morris said dual naming looked to him like a partnership approach.

Welcome Bay ward councillor Hautapu Baker said restoring the original name would align with the council’s responsibilities to protect and preserve the site.

“Restoring that name is us acting in partnership.”

Te Awanui ward councillor Hēmi Rolleston said there was a place for dual naming sometimes, but he did not believe this was the time.

“This is a line in the sand.

“This name has mana.”

He said dual-named organisations, such as Hato Hone St John, were still commonly referred to by their English name.

Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale referred to the name restoration of Mauao from Mount Maunganui.

“The majority of the population now refer to it as Mauao.

“It will, over time, become normal, and people will know where it is,” he said.

Drysdale questioned how the transition Omanawa Falls will officially period would operate, however, to avoid have its original name, Te Rere o confusion for visitors. Ōmanawa, restored.

Tourism Bay of Plenty general manager Photo / John Borren Oscar Nathan said both terms would be used for a time.

He said signs in the area would have the dual name during the transition and would stay until they needed to be replaced.

All councillors voted for using Te Rere o Ōmanawa, except Tauriko ward councillor Martin Rozeboom, who preferred the dual naming approach.

Nicholas told the council the “beautiful” name was bestowed by their ancestors “Following Ngāti many generations Hangarau‘s defence of ago. our land at the battles of He said the Pukehinahina and Te Ranaga reserve was a place in April and June of 1864 tāngata whenua and following the scorched went to find peace, Ngati Hangarau Hapu Trust earth campaign in the tranquillity and chairman Koro Nicholas. Photo / Supplied Kaimai hinterland in 1867 healing. known unfondly as Te Weranga – the Nicholas said Ngāti Hangarau want to burning – the land was confiscated from allow people to learn about and be one us." with the place.

He said the Crown admitted to “A name with mana, with prestige and wrongful confiscation from tāngata a name with history.” whenua in 2012.

Nicholas wrote in the resource consent The title to the land had been passed on application about the history of the land. to many different entities since then, but He said the whenua at Ōmanawa Falls it now sits with Tauranga City Council had been the exclusive domain of Ngāti and within the rohe of the Western Bay Hangarau for most of known history.

– LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

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of Plenty District Council.

The Western Bay council wrote a letter to the city council in March 2024 in support of naming the reserve Te Rere o Ōmanawa.

The Ōmanawa Falls Governance Group and Tauranga City Council will support Ngāti Hangarau’s planned application to the New Zealand Geographic Board to officially rename the waterfall, Ōmanawa Falls, to Te Rere o Ōmanawa. “Ōmanawa” translates to “of the heart”, and the full name means “the waterfall of Ayla Yeoman the heart”.

Friday 24 April 2026

New podcast to catch life stories

A Tauranga funeral director is flipping the script on how we think about legacy by capturing stories before the final chapter.

Don Hoult from Legacy Funerals has launched a podcast dedicated, not to those who have passed, but to the living, preserving real-life stories of everyday people for future generations.

Working with experienced broadcaster and videographer Mark Fruish, the pair have seen first-hand how much of a person’s story is often left untold.

Inspired by the award-winning Rosebud Podcast, produced

by Gyles Brandreth in the United Kingdom, Hoult saw an

opportunity to bring storytelling into his everyday work.

He has created a simple but powerful format, whereby each guest is asked the same carefully crafted questions, designed to draw out the experiences, memories, and perspectives that make up our lives.

The result is a growing library of recorded oral histories. “Everyone has a story worth telling,” Hoult said. “What I find time and time again in my line of work is just how little people know about their parents’ early lives, or the generations before them.”

People can access the first stories Hoult and Fruish have brought to life at: https://www. legacyfunerals.co.nz/stories

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The Weekend Sun

14

We will remember them

This Saturday, April, 25 Anzac Day, Tauranga City’s combined Civic Memorial Service will be Memorial Park at 9.30am. Photo / Hunter Studio

“Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. We will remember them,” said Laurence Binyon’s poem For The Fallen.

This Saturday, April, 25 Anzac Day commemorations will take place across Tauranga City, giving the community an opportunity to come together honour those who served and are still serving New Zealand.

Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale encouraged residents to honour the courage, service and sacrifice of those who fought for our freedoms, and to recognise the men and women who continue to serve today.

“While its origins lie on the shores of Gallipoli, Anzac Day has grown into a day to remember all New Zealanders who have served our country.”

Moreover, this Anzac Day, there are a few changes to services to be aware of, said Tauranga City Council.

The Tauranga Dawn Service previously held in Greerton will now take place at Memorial Park at 6am.

Memorial Park will also again host the city’s Civic Memorial Service, bringing together the Tauranga and Mount Maunganui RSAs for the first time. The service begins at 9.30am – which is 30 minutes later than previous years

– to allow people to attend a dawn service and return later for the civic commemoration.

The Mount Maunganui Dawn Service will continue at the Mount Maunganui Cenotaph with no separate civic service.

There are free park and ride services for both the Tauranga and Mount Maunganui services with accessible buses available.

Road closures will be in place on Saturday, April 25, for safety around service times in both Tauranga and Mount Maunganui affecting key streets near Memorial Park and the Mount Maunganui Cenotaph. All information can be found at: www.tauranga.co.nz/ SPONSORED CONTENT anzacday

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The Weekend Sun

Friday 24 April 2026

15

Feedback sought on Cameron Rd Tauranga communities are invited to give feedback on plans to upgrade Cameron Rd from 17th Ave, near Tauranga Hospital, to Maleme St by the Tauranga Racecourse.

The project includes four-laning and important water service upgrades to support the city’s growing population.

Tauranga City Council said it is gathering feedback through an online survey and community drop-in sessions throughout April and May. “People can look at the revised concept plans, which also include separated on-road cycle lanes and shared walking and cycling paths where space is limited.

The proposed plans include using the outside “The lanes as high-occupancy vehicle lanes (T2/T3) during peak times. On-street parking may remain available during off peak periods.”

Several options are being explored for Greerton Village, the council said. “These include two or four traffic lanes, along

with either traffic signals or roundabouts at the Chadwick Rd and Cornwall St intersections.”

The work would also include upgrades to wastewater, stormwater and water supply networks.

Mayor Mahé Drysdale said the upgrades were essential to meet demand for new homes across the city.

“These upgrades will support the anticipated growth of about 5800 homes on the Te Papa Peninsula, as well as 2400 new homes in Tauriko West.

“We’ve already invested in Cameron Rd stage 1 and the Tauriko Enabling Works so to realise the full benefits of these earlier investments, we now g g 2 improvements, p need to p progress the Stage which will better connect people travelling from the west to the city centre and beyond.”

People could view the plans and share their feedback at: letstalk.tauranga.govt.nz/ cameronroad.

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The Cameron Road upgrades will help meet demand for new homes for Tauranga families. Photo / Supplied

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Check out the plans and give us your feedback by 15 May 2026 or come chat to us at one of our drop-in sessions.

Saturday 2 May 10am-2pm

at Tauranga Home Show, Mercury Arena Baypark, stand #317

Wednesday 29 April 4pm-7pm at Le Chat Noir Cafe, 144 Chadwick Road, Greerton

Saturday 9 May 11am-2pm

at Mitre 10 MEGA, Gate Pa Shopping Centre

Friday 24 April 2026

The Weekend Sun

16

1-3 MAY MERCURY ARENA BAYPARK

Tauranga Home Show returns with flair and fun

The Bay’s biggest home & lifestyle y event on next weekend at Baypark!

The 27th annual Tauranga Home Show returns on May 1-3 at Mercury Arena Bayparkk with more than 300 exhibitors ready to meet customers face-to-face with their best products and exclusive show deals.

The show has teamed up with Harvey Norman Mt Maunganui and LG Electronics to offer the 2026 show prize – a massive $10,000 gift card to spend at Harvey Norman Mt Maunganui.

Everyone who visits the show gets a chance to go in the draw, said Bay Events managing director Dana McCurdy.

“Your odds of winning are actually pretty good,” McCurdy said.

“You’ve got a one in 38.3 million chance of winning first division

With more than 300 exhibitorrs on-ssite, there will be lots to see and do at the 2026 Tauranga Home Show from r Mayy 1-3. Photos / Supplied

Lotto, but a one in 5000 chance of winning the Tauranga Home Show prize. It’s well worth attending the show just to get your hands on an entry form!”

The Seminar Series is focused on the future,

with Kat Knight from Kererū Gardens giving timely advice on planting to retain banks and waterways.

McKenzie & Willis design service manager Karen Powers is flying up from Christchurch to give a talk on 2026 interior design trends, while Sharon Giblett from Refresh Renovations will share proven strategies to achieve a highquality renovation without the stress.

The Live Cooking Kitchen is sponsored

by Kaimai Eggs and features local chefs including Nathan Turley from Somethin’ Somethin’ who took out Battle of the Snack at the 2025 Flavours of Plenty Festival, Pablo Nieto from Pablo Papamoa with Latin fusion flair, and worldclass private chef Martyn Price from Greenstone Chef.

McCurdy said she is pleased with this year’s line-up. “There’s more than 300 exhibitors bringing what people love home shows for – the deals!

“We’ve also got a great line-up of live demonstrations, food trucks and entertainment for kids. It’s a great day out for the whole family, especially with children’s activities at no extra charge.”

The Tauranga Home Show is run by a local family business and McCurdy said people don’t realise how unusual this is.

“A lot of other exhibitions in New Zealand are run from distant national offices cut off from the people they’re catering to.

“Being local, we build relationships with Tauranga businesses and community groups and adapt quickly to regional developments,” McCurdy said.

“We see first-hand the contribution our shows make to the local economy because we live here too.”

The show and its exhibitors have grown together over the past two and a half decades, McCurdy said.

“The products have certainly changed.

We’ve gone from furnishings and decor we’d call vintage today to robotic appliances and smart home technology.

“It’s been fascinating to be a part of this evolution. Even in today’s digital age, when you’re looking to make big ticket purchases for your home you want to look your supplier in the eye and build a relationship. That’s what the Tauranga Home Show is all about.”

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The Weekend Sun

Friday 24 April 2026

17

1-3 MAY MERCURY ARENA BAYPARK

Affordable native and exotic plants at home show!

Kereru Gardens was established in 2002 and is home to almost 400 varieties of native and exotic plants, all propagated and grown on Kat Knight’s Oropi Road property, or sourced from her parents property in Katikati.

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Started more than 30 years ago, Cramp Stop spray was the first product made by homeopath Amanda Dunlop.

Active in multisport herself, Dunlop soon realised she needed to create a product to assist her and others recover from active sport, so Revive & Endurance hit the market.

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Owner Spence Putwain said: “I purchased the business two years ago as I was interested in alternative health and remedies, and these products seem to fit the bill”.

“We look forward to welcoming visitors to the Tauranga Home Show, where we will present our products and demonstrate how they can significantly enhance everyday living.”

See NZ Natural Formulas’ stand at the Tauranga Home Show, Mercury Baypark, May 1-3.

This is a real family nursery, and their plants are homegrown with love as well as being affordable, can you believe every plant is $7.50... yes, you have read right!

We are not talking small plants here; we are talking well-established plants, some hich h are ab bove 1m talll. off wh “We wanted our plants to be affordable, and we wanted our customers to be able to buy the plants

they wanted, not what they could afford,” said Kat Knight.

While there is a wonderful variety of plants to choose from, primary plants grown are shrubs and hedging plants.

Some Pittosporums are well more than 1m tall and still only $7.50 each, Knight said.

“Customers come from all around the country to purchase bulk plants. We had one customer from Taupō who arrived with her horse float, complete with a list compiled from all her friends.”

Kereru Gardens is open Fridays to Sundays at 41 Oropi Rd, Greerton.

Kniigh ht inviites peoplle to viisiit their stand at the Tauranga Home Show at Mercury Baypark from May 1-3.

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Kat Knight has plants galore at Kereru Gardens. Photo / Kelly O’Hara

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Friday 24 April 2026

The Weekend Sun

18

1-3 MAY MERCURY ARENA BAYPARK

Renovation stories callout!

The Weekend Sun is putting together its next MySpace renovation feature and is on the hunt for local stories from local people about how they’ve transformed their space.

We’d like to talk with anyone who has recreated or upgraded a space – whether it’s a home, rental, holiday home, bach, deck, shed, garage, landscape – anything!

If you’d like to share your story, please email: merle.cave@nzme.co.nz

The neat thing about the home show is...

How’s the carpet at your place?

Have you nearly saved enough for that long-dreamed-of deck? Or do you just need to find a decent curtain company?

Any idea you have of improving the home or building your dream one will be on offer at the 2026 Tauranga Home Show next weekend, from May 1-3 at 1ST - 3RD MAY 2026 1S Mercury Baypark.

Have you been to a Tauranga Home ALL $1000 Show? If not, don’t miss this one. Because AQUARIUS WORTH OF SPA POOL it’s the perfect place to mosey around, EXTRAS! PACKAGES look at products and services with no INCLUDE: pressure involved!

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If you already Stay Cool, Stay Covered: Archishade have the product at home, you can Leads the Way in UV-Safe Outdoor Living catch up with the business or supplier you bought it from, give feedback on performance, ask about repairs or new parts. Maybe have See us look at the newer at the model of what you Homeshow Stand have…

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brains and get a handle on prices.

If it’s a project around the home – a pool, for example – go talk to the pool retailer and get a feel what’s involved, how much it may cost, how the end result could look. Find out long-term maintenance costs and if they have a local branch to help you in future.

Home wares and furniture, plus

Majestic Interiors - Stand 253

smaller items and services, are also on display. Anything you need, want or dream of for kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, laundry, lounges, dining areas, garages and outdoor living and lifestyles will be peppered throughout the show.

So come and have a look from May 1-3 at Mercury Baypark!

The Weekend Sun

Friday 24 April 2026

19

1-3 MAY MERCURY ARENA BAYPARK

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Visit their stand 377 at the Tauranga Home Show at Mercury Baypark, Kem Ormond May 1-3.

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Friday 24 April 2026

The Weekend Sun

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Historic Bethlehem cottage An ageing kaauri cottage in Bethlehem haas been brought back to life, transforming from a deterioorating relic into a vibrant com mmunity space dedicated d to caring for kau umātua.

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The modest buiilding on Carmichael Rd, believed to be close to a centuryy old, once housed principals and teachers from the former Bethlehem m Native School, now Bethlehem School.

Over time it serrved as a kōhanga reo, recreation space and later offices for commu unity health services, before faalling into disrepair.

By the early 202 20s, it had become unsafe. Floors had shifted, piles were failingg, and vegetation was creeping insiide.

“It got to the pooint where we had to make a decisioon,” Ngāti Kahu Ngāti Kahu Hauora ki Tauranga Trust general manager Hauora ki Tauranga Trust general Reweti Te Mete in the doorway of the restored building. manager Reweti Te Mete said. “If

we wanted to save the building, we had to act.”

Restoration

Rather than demolish it, the trust chose restoration – preserving its history while meeting a growing community need.

With nearly $100,000 in funding from TECT, matched by the trust, a nine-month renovation began in January 2025. Builders retained as much of the original character as possible, preserving native timber features, ceilings, door frames and some original doors, while replacing unsafe elements.

“We tried to keep the bones of the building,” Te Mete said.

The work included rebuilding sections of flooring, installing new piles and reconfiguring interior spaces. A former kitchen wall was removed to create an openplan area, improving accessibility.

Outside, new decking and gently

Build to begin on Maketū Coastguard storage shed Construction of a new purpose-built storage shed for Maketū Volunteer Coastguard will begin in coming weeks, and the new facility should be ready by the end of 2026.

The new building at 83 Ford Rd, beside the Kaituna River, will bring the unit’s rescue vessels and equipment together in one central location for the first time in more than 20 years of operation.

For a volunteer organisation tasked with responding to emergencies across a large and often challenging coastal environment, that change is expected to make a significant difference.

Maketū Volunteer Coastguard treasurer/secretary Geoff Oliver said: “We’re currently storing our gear in multiple locations around Maketū in shipping containers and small sheds”.

“So we’re scattered all around the

place. Bringing all our equipment, boat, tractor and jet skis together in one location, close to our main rescue vessel, is going to make it so much easier, particularly in an emergency.”

Reducing response time is a key driver behind the project.

The new facility has been designed as a fit-for-purpose base that will support both current operations and future demand, Oliver said.

Alongside improved storage and faster deployment, it will provide a central location for training, education and co-ordination with other emergency services including NZ Police, Hato Hone St John and Fire and Emergency NZ.

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The Weekend Sun

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21

given new purpose sloping accessways were added to support safe entry for kaumātua and wheelchair users.

Calm waters

The result is Waiāio – meaning “calm waters” – a community day respite service that opened in November 2025.

Operating from 8.30am to 4.30pm, it provides a welcoming space for up to 10 kaumātua each day, offering social connection, cultural activities, health monitoring and a sense of belonging.

The idea emerged from conversations with whānau and local GPs, who had noticed increasing pressure on families caring for elderly relatives.

“Many of our whānau are balancing work and family commitments while also caring for their loved ones,” Te Mete said.

“In some cases, kaumātua were being left home alone.”

Ngāti Kahu Hauora had previously offered overnight respite, but feedback showed a daytime model better suited local needs, allowing kaumātua to remain living at home while receiving support during the day. “It gives whānau breathing space and reassurance,” he said.

Real benefit

TECT trustee Greg Brownless said the project reflects the organisation’s focus on practical community outcomes.

“Supporting the restoration of this historic cottage means kaumātua and whānau have a great space to spend the day and that’s a real benefit for the community,” Brownless said, adding it offers companionship for older people and peace of mind for families.

“Backing initiatives that make day-today life better for our communities is a

key focus for TECT, and that includes older people experiencing disadvantage,” he said.

“Waiāio is already offering support, companionship and engagement for kaumātua, and this gives peace of mind for their whānau.”

The service is free and open to anyone who needs it, reflecting the trust’s commitment to accessible, communityfocused healthcare. Its wider medical service supports around 2100 patients, with a strong Māori population.

Since opening, Waiāio has become more than a care facility. For many kaumātua, it is also a place of memory. “A lot of people who come here remember this building,” Te Mete said.

“They remember their teachers, their school days - the good times and the notso-good times.”

That emotional connection was a key reason for restoring the cottage.

Honouring history

“This building holds history for our community – Māori and non-Māori alike,” he said. “It’s part of the story of education in this area. By revitalising it, we’re honouring that while making sure it continues to serve our people.”

The surrounding whenua has also been developed, with community gardens and a food forest planted in December 2025 featuring more than 60 varieties of fruit trees, including feijoa, citrus, banana and tamarillo.

Harvests are shared through a pātaka kai, helping support local families. “It’s about supporting each other,” Te Mete pensive,, so this is one said. “Food is exp way we can help.”

Inside, the space is intentionally calm

Ngāti Kahu Hauora ki Tauranga Trust general manager Reweti Te Mete on the new deck of Waiāio. Photos / Kelly O’Hara

with neutral tones for now, with plans to introduce artwork created by whānau and kaumātua to reflect the building’s history and community identity.

“We want it to feel like their space.”

Positive

Community response has been overwhelmingly positive, with strong interest from people wanting to work or volunteer. “That shows how much this

kaupapa matters,” Te Mete said. “Kaumātua are deeply valued in our community.”

For the trust, the project represents both preservation and progress.

“At its heart, Waiāio is about manaakitanga,” he said.

“It’s about creating a space where our kaumātua feel respected, cared for and connected - and where whānau know their loved ones are in good hands.”

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rating musical hits Tauranga Powerful, exhilarating Fall in love with an extraordinary musical that reminds us even in the worst of times, we see the best of humankind.

Tauranga Musical Theatre’s new production Come From Away opens tonight, April 24, and runs to May 2 at Baycourt, with a 12-strong local cast and five alternate actors bringing to life a true story with a powerful message.

The musical is based on isolated Canadian community of Gander unexpectedly hosting the world.

An ordinary day in the small town became an international act of kindness when 38 planes carrying thousands of passengers were diverted to Gander on September 11, 2001 – to avoid America's fatal terrorist attack.

Director Darrel Nitschke said audiences can look forward to

The full cast of 12 actors in musical Come From Away, which opens tonight, April 24. Photo / Pete and Klara Photography

experiencing an emotional roller coaster. “It’s a 100-minute, oneact show with no interval – it’s been designed that way to keep the audience and cast on the same emotional journey together.

“One moment you are laughing, one moment you are crying; one moment you are completely silent in the room with the prominence of what’s being explored,” Nitschke said.

“You just can’t help but fall in love with the people of Gander who took in 7000 passengers over five days. They truly gave them everything they were able to.”

Rehearsing three times weekly since late January, the cast have a heavy workload – each portrays multiple characters in multiple accents, and sing! “Our five alternates, who can be seen on-stage as backing vocalists, have prepared two roles they can take on at a moment’s notice.”

Nitschke said the show is a massive feat for all because the

tracks are so detailed and the cast have to manipulate furniture on-stage to create settings and locations on top of character work and singing.

While a joy, Nitschke said the show was also a big responsibility.

“The cast are portraying multiple real people and of course real events...in some cases characters are actually composites of a few different individual people...so there’s a real sense of truth and lived experience running through it.”

Since its 2015 world premiere, Come From Away had earnt international praise for its innovative storytelling and powerful message of unity.

Nitschke said the musical is an uplifting reminder of humanity’s ability to come together, no matter what the circumstances. “The message of kindness is timeless and always

applicable. When you think about what we went through in January at Mount Maunganui with the slips, kindness was important then, and it continues to be important – even outside times of tragedy.

“So I think if we have any opportunity to go to the theatre and watch a show that promotes kindness as a theme for humanity, I think that is time well spent.”

Come From Away is at Baycourt’s Addison Theatre April 24-May 2.

To purchase tickets, phone 0800 BUY TIX (289 849) or see: www.eventfinda.co.nz/2026/comefrom-away/tauranga Thanks to TMT, The Weekend Sun has two double passes to Come From Away to give to two readers who answer this question: Where is the musical based? To enter, visit www.sunlive.co.nz and click ‘competitions’.

Entries must be in byTuesday, April 28.

Passion and orchestral colour Romance R om oma maannncccee & Virtuosity Vir irt rttuuuooossit sity ty Sun 3 May Sun May 2026, 2026, 3pm 3pm Holy Trinity Church 215 Devonport Road, Tauranga 215

Michael Joel - Conductor Michael Lara Hall - Violin soloist Lara Beethoven - Coriolan Overture Vieu uxtemps - Violin Concerto No.5 Vieuxtemps Rom mance for Violin and Orchestra Dvorak - Romance Beethoven - Symphony No.2 8 & under FREE (no ticket required) Adults $25* / 18 *Plus booking fees, via eventfinda.co.nz bopsymphonia.org.nz

An afternoon of passion, brilliance, and orchestral colour will light up the audience at Bay of Plenty Symphonia’s first 2026 concert next month.

Romance & Virtuosity will be performed on Sunday, May 3, from 3pm at Tauranga’s Holy Trinity Church under the baton of musical director Michael Joel.

Joel said the programme would blend dramatic power with lyrical beauty.

“The concert opens with the fiery Bay of Plenty Symphonia performing intensity of the Coriolan Overture by at a past concert. Photos / Supplied Ludwig van Beethoven. Inspired by the She’d then perform Romance for Violin story of Roman general Coriolanus, a Orchestra by Antonín Dvořák, and the work is full of urgency and a the afternoon will conclude with and Bay of Plenty Symphonia intensity, contrasting turbulent power musical director Michael Joel. Symphony S No. 2 by Beethoven. with moments of poignant reflection.”

BOP Symphonia’s Romance & The spotlight would then turn Virtuosity is on Sunday, May 3, at 3pm at Holy to acclaimed violinist Lara Hall, who’ll perform Trinity Church, 215 Devonport Rd, Tauranga.

Violin Concerto No. 5 by Belgian composer Henri Tickets cost adults $25 plus a booking fee from Vieuxtemps. “One of the great showpieces of the www.eventfinda.co.nz or phone 0800 BUY TIX Romantic violin repertoire, the concerto combines (289 849). Under-18s gain free entry with no sweeping melodies with breathtaking technical ticket required. brilliance,” Joel said.

Thanks to BOP Symphonia, The Weekend He said audiences would remember Hall Sun has two double passes to Romance & from her performance of Beethoven’s Virtuosity to give away to two lucky readers Violin Concerto with the symphonia in who can tell us what year Lara Hall last 2025, and other captivating performances performed with BOP Symphonia? across New Zealand as a soloist and To enter, visit www.sunlive.co.nz and chamber musician. “Her performance click on the ‘competitions’ tab. Entries promises both flair and musical depth.” must be in by Tuesday, April 28.

The Weekend Sun

Friday 24 April 2026

23

Love and obsession awaits at city theatre A theatrical production in Tauranga will not only grip audiences with its storyline based on a true story, the drama’s costumes would also pull people back into 1950s.

From left ft, t Birgitte Clark playing Sylvia Shaw, Lauren Miller pllayiing Doriis Jud dd, Lisa Laud der playing Ruth Ellis and Grace Gibson playing Vickie Martin in The Thrill of Love.

Inset: The wardrobe mistress for The Thrill of Love, Kay Burnie. Photos / Pete Luxford could there be more to this story?,” hinted Broderick.

“The combination of love and obsession is set to light up the stage at the 16th Avenue.”

The has an experienced cast and director Broderick is no stranger to compelling British drama, having previously directed The Revlon Girl at 16th Avenue Theatre.

“Audiences can expect to be immersed in a world where glamour

and desperation exist side by side,” Broderick said. “They will be invited to ponder issues of justice, empathy, and the true cost of love.”

The Thrill of Love will show at Tauranga’s 16th Avenue Theatre from May 8-23. Tickets can be purchased at: https://www.iticket.co.nz/ events/2026/ may/thethrill-of-love Kem Ormond

Support and connection close to home

For many people, a prostate cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming – not just for the person affected but for partners, whānau and friends too.

That’s why local support matters.

In Tauranga, the Prostate Cancer Foundation New Zealand (PCFNZ) support group offers a place where people can connect with others who understand the challenges, questions and emotions that often come with diagnosis, treatment and recovery.

Led locally by support representative Mike Lane, the group provides practical information, shared experiences and reassurance for anyone navigating the prostate cancer journey.

“Whether you are newly diagnosed, currently in treatment, adjusting to life after treatment, or supporting a loved one, you are welcome,” Lane said.

One of PCFNZ’s most popular initiatives is Prost-FIT – an exercise programme designed to help improve strength, confidence and wellbeing during and after treatment, he said.

“It’s also a chance to build friendships and stay connected.”

Lane said support is not just about talking

Churches Active In Our Community

Remembrance to responsibility Anzac Day is a time of remembrance, gratitude and reflection as we pause to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who served and gave their lives in times of war.

Mike Lane,, centre,, with local Prost-FIT class members. Photo / Supplied through the hard days – it’s also about helping people feel less alone, more informed and more hopeful about what lies ahead.

“The photo above reflects exactly what local support can look like: encouragement, camaraderie and a reminder that no one has to face prostate cancer on their own.”

For support, information or to connect with your nearest local group, call the PCFNZ information service on 0800 66 0800 or visit prostate.org.nz.

It’s also a time to remember their families who also paid a price for their loved one’s service.

Moreover, we acknowledge those currently serving in peacekeeping roles and in situations of war.

While most of us are not called to lay down our lives in such a way, we are called to live with that same spirit of selfgiving love.

Jesus tells us: “My those in need. command is this: Love While we look back to each other as I have remember, may we also loved you. Greater love take up our responsibility has no one than this: to do our part in serving to lay down one’s life our communities with for one’s friends (John courage and distinction, 15:12-13)”. and embody the ideals This reminds us that of Anzac. true love is not merely As we reflect on the a feeling; it is an action, service of those who it is a sacrifice of our gave, may we also time and resources as we ask God to shape us choose the good of others into people who serve above ourselves. We can generously and love do this through caring deeply – reflecting the for a neighbour, standing greatest love of all. up for justice, offering May God bless you all. forgiveness, giving our Sandra Warner, St. Columba time, and supporting Presbyterian Church

Enquiries 022 632 5957

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Family Friendly, All Welcome

The Thrill of Love directed by Geraldine Broderick will open at 16th Avenue Theatre on May 8, and run until May 22, offering a dramatic take on the true story of Ruth Ellis, the last woman to be hanged in Britain in 1955.

Broderick said the play aims to transport people’s senses to the 1950s, with the sound of blues ringing out, the smell of whiskey and tobacco, and the temptation of passionate, sometimes dangerous love.

“Our wardrobe mistress, Kay Burnie, has done a fantastic job recreating the look of the 50s for the cast,” Broderick said.

She said The Thrill of Love explores Ellis’ existence as a nightclub hostess and her destructive relationship with racing driver David Blakely, culminating in the tragic events that led to murder.

“Plastered across the papers in 1955 as the ‘blond bombshell’ who killed her lover in cold blood …

Friday 24 April 2026

The Weekend Sun

24

Gate Pā garden to join festival When Jenny Tollemache bought a 1910 Tauranga villa, she vowed that one day it would be graced with a garden it deserved.

That day has arrived – with Tollemache’s Gate Pā garden and her wee art studio a new offering in 2026’s BOP Garden & Art Festival’s trail on November 19-22.

With the property already already oozing beauty, for Tollemache it’s full steam ahead developing a new entranceway to her cottage garden before the festival.

She can’t wait to let festival goers in!

Those interested, can now buy discount priced 2026 BOP Garden & Art Festival tickets in the lead up to Mother’s Day on May 10.

The discounted price of $60 pass, which offers a saving of $20, covers all four days of the festival plus entry to the familyfriendly Bloom in the Bay activities.

BOP Garden and Art Festival director Marc Anderson said the discounted price will be available until May 10.

Plenty to please

Anderson promises “there will be plenty to please” with admired gardeners and artists returning, and a solid number of creatives new to the festival.

New festival entrant Tollemache is creative on various levels. She owns The Little Gardening Company and in her spare time tends to her garden, paints,

creates papier mache vessels, and engages in traditional book binding.

Hand-made journals are also a result of her creativity. Little wonder then that her place will be both a garden and art stop on the festival trail.

Her art studio is weatherboard with little stained-glass windows. It suits the house and looks as if it’s been there forever, she said.

English cottage theme

Surrounded by structural and rambling plants, Tollemache said there’s a definite English cottage garden theme. The topiaried English buxus and pittosporum are her handiwork, and include three convincingly shaped as chickens.

“There’s a lot of buxus used to hedge walkways and divide off spaces for other plants. I love structural plants and rambling elements like roses. I am a big fan of pink and white roses – mainly David Austin ones,” Tollemache said.

Favourites include Strawberry Hill, which adorns a white obelisk in the garden, Hayley Westenra and Eye Candy.

They thrive among the likes of hydrangeas, daphne, dahlias, gardenia, jasmine, fruit trees and hedges of Japanese buxus.

Swift creation

Tollemache said she began developing her garden in recent years. “It will be good for people on the tour to see how you

Jenny Tollemache in her garden – a new garden in the 2026 festival.

Photo / Monique Balvert-O’Connor

can create something like this in quite a short time,” she said.

She also plans to have photo boards on display during the festival, depicting how her garden had evolved.

Mother’s Day special

The festival’s Mother’s Day Special Multi-Day Festival Passes are available online at: Eventfinda.co.nz or exclusively at Palmers Bethlehem from April 24.

Anderson said Bayleys had proudly

returned as the festival’s principal partner.

“And we are delighted to add Greenwood Park, Metlifecare, as co-sponsor of the Garden and Art Trail with Palmers Bethlehem.”

Craigs Investment Partners had returned as sponsor of Bloom in the Bay, the Festival Hub, and TECT and Tauranga City Council continued to support the festival as major funders, Anderson said. “Many thanks to all that support us” Monique Balvert-O’Connor

production in city this Anzac Day WOW Moving A moving tribute to commemorate Anzac Day World of Wearable Art Tour

Oct 3rd to 6th 4 days / 3 nights Travel by train to Wellington and return by bus.

2 nights Wellington 1 x night Taupo.

Platinum Seats.

Register your interest now.

Phone 07 572 4118 admin@zealandiertours.com zealandiertours.com

featuring will performed in the city tomorrow, April 25, by a cast of local rangatahi (youth) from Tauranga Moana.

Presented by Tuatara Collective, production For The Fallen will transport audiences to taverns and public houses of Europe and North Africa during WWI and WWII, from Italy and Crete to Greece and Turkey.

Through stirring wartime songs, dance, and haka, the performance weaves together letters from the front, personal accounts from local veterans, and poetry by celebrated Aotearoa writer Alistair Te Ariki Campbell.

Kaupapa Māori-led creative organisation the Tuatara Collective will offer two ticketed two afternoon shows at 2pm and 4.30pm at Baycourt Community & Arts Centre.

Tuatara Collective has developed the Rātā initiative, an innovative arts practice supporting mental health in the arts industry for artists and audiences. This

For The Fallen will be performed at Baycourt on April 25. Photo / MPL Photography and LH Photography

includes having mental health professionals present at every performance for the audience to engage with, as well as offering wānanga and training to the cast and crew during and after the project.

Show tickets cost $15-$35 – book at: https://www.tuataracollective.com/forthefallen

The Weekend Sun

Friday 24 April 2026

25

The enigma that was Elvis With Baz Luhrmann’s concert film EPiC: Elvis Presley In Concert now hitting three streaming services and still showing in the odd cinema, it seemed a good time to check the old guy out, see if he still holds up...

Firstly, cards on the table: I’m not a great Elvislover. The 1950s stuff was sensational, the later bands were sensational, but for me his material was always basically aimed at teenagers.

A grown man singing “I'm a hunk a hunk of burning love” leaves me cold.

I hated Baz Luhrmann’s previous Elvis film with Austin Butler. This is different. It’s basically Elvis talking and band footage – rehearsals, goofing, shows – which has received Peter Jackson’s wondertreatment and looks absolutely pristine.

Knew how to work

The bulk of footage is from an early 1970s Las Vegas residency. Musicians take note: Elvis’ residencies there, and there were many, were 28 days without a break, two shows a day, no

days off. The man knew how to work.

What do we learn?

Mainly things we know already. He could sure sing, and he was a magnetic, dynamic stage performer.

And a better guitarist than credited. And his band, his huge band, were the best.

The music remastering here is stunning – like the recent update of The Beatles Anthology documentaries it leaps out of the speakers and hits you right in the chest.

But it’s the choice of that music that gives me pause.

This was the early 1970s, Elvis was still in his 30s, and it was one of the most creative musical periods the world has ever known.

And Elvis is singing covers of Beatles’ songs and Simon and Garfunkel songs like some middle-of-the-road lounge singer.

Past than future

That’s kinda what he is here. A very commanding one, with charisma to boot, but still...

And that’s what makes this seem so very old,

Elvis Presley poses with guitar in a promotional still for the movie Jailhouse Rock circa 1957. Photo / Bettmann Archive

from a foreign past. While The Stones et al were touring, making vital music, Elvis was playing to the Frank Sinatra crowd, more past than future even 50 years ago.

It’s hard not to compare it with a recent Paul McCartney documentary, Man On The Run, which examines exactly the same era from the Beatles split through personal and musical rebuilding to the creation of Wings a few years later. McCartney is striving for relevance in a world where all he knows is The Beatles, trying to forge a new artistic path.

The story closes with the massive success of Wings’ Band On The Run, though

the film casts no light on why the bass is out of tune on that album’s title track.

Foreign country

Elvis’ story finished before the band Wings ended – he didn’t even see out the 1970s. But what keeps popping into my mind is that McCartney was only seven years younger than Elvis. In 2026 he’s just released a new single, while the past that Elvis inhabited seems every day a more foreign country.

Hear Winston’s Latest Playlist Scan the QR code, or visit:

www.tinyurl.com/ududpraa

Tauranga Farmers’ Market shifts to afternoon

Tauranga Farmers’ Market will be held Saturday afternoon, to enable would-be shoppers to attend Anzac Day services.

Instead of running 7.45am-noon at Tauranga Primary School, tomorrow, April 25, it will go ahead from 1pm-4pm. “Join us from 1pm-

Drifting champs finale at Baypark The title-deciding final round of the D1NZ season for 2026 takes place at Mount Maunganui’s Mercury Baypark Arena this afternoon and tomorrow.

This Anzac weekend Round 5 will see 2026’s drift king crowned at the Baypark Grand Final. It will be a festival of motorsport, show cars, live entertainment, and championship glory.

Today, April 24, gates open 3pm at Baypark stadium for the Pro-Sport and Pro practice and qualifying sessions.

Tomorrow, April 25, gates from 12 noon for the Pro-Sport and Pro Top 32 Battles and the Schmick Mick Hard Park.

There will be driver signing sessions in the Stadium Lounge for fans.

Children aged under 15 need to be accompanied and supervised by an adult.

Hearing protection is recommended for little ears.

For tickets, visit: https://shop.d1nz.com or pay at the gate.

4pm at TPS for your usual mix of fresh, local produce, delicious food, and artisan goods – just a little later in the day,” said the market’s weekly post, which said the move gave people “a chance to come together as a community after a morning of remembrance”.

EASY

8 4

SUDOKU

9

6 5 4

No.2335

5

8 3

5 9 8 6 5 4 1 1 2 6 9 2 1 7 3 9 3 6 1 How to solve Sudoku!

Fill the grid so that every row and every 3x3 square contains the digits 1 to 9

Solution No.2334

7 2 8 9 3 1 6 5 4 2 4 5 3 6 9 1 8 7 5 7 2 8 9 6 4 1 3

9 1 6 4 3 5 5 8 4 7 6 2 2 7 3 9 8 1 6 9 8 1 7 3 1 2 7 8 5 4 3 4 5 2 9 6 8 3 1 6 4 9 4 5 2 3 1 7 7 6 9 5 2 8

Across No. 1981 1. Native bird (8) 5. Exasperate (8) 6. Drink (4) 6. Clear (5) 8. Desire (4) 7. Deer (7) 9. Islands (8) 12. Nostalgic (8) 10. Consult (5) 14. Controversial (7) 11. Language (6) 16. Viral disease (7) 13. Small South Island 18. Gift (5) town (6) 20. Colour (5) 15. A town that was 21. Previously (4) famous for its pottery A F A R E A T E I F A P H (6) P F M O F R E D A L L E N R U I N E R L I M E T N S 17. Bay (NI) (6) I E S C V A S T I A L S O 19. Possibly (5) L U S H D N G O X E M I T 22. Quotation (8) A N C A L T E R A T I O N Y P L L OWG T O U A N O 23. Advance (4) R O T O K A K A H I K E M 24. Yank (4) A P T A I R G L T S O R E 25. Memento (8) S U R E E D U L L I V L M Down Z L P L E E I O I M E R E K A I M A N A W A E R V N 2. Breathing (5) F R T S E T E S O S T U D 3. Accomplish (7) Solution 1980 4. Annoys (4)

Friday 24 April 2026

The Weekend Sun

26

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