Meet Connor Bell (pictured) – he’s Tauranga City’s newest resident Olympian after moving here earlier this year alongside partner Bridget, training under coach Kirsten Hellier in nearby Pāpāmoa.
The 24-year-old national record holder has represented New Zealand at 2018 Youth Olympic Games, 2022
Commonwealth Games, 2023 World Championships, 2024 Paris Olympics and 2025 Tokyo World Championships.
Following a busy international season, Bell said the change of scenery had offered a valuable reset as he balances training with full-time psychology study through Massey University
Olympian lands
His achievements already place him among the country ’ s best, including multiple national titles and a record-breaking discus throw of 69 51 metres set in 2025 in the United States
He is also busy giving back to the community through school visits to talk to students as a New Zealand Olympic
Committee ambassador, sharing his journey from a rural upbringing to the world stage and encouraging young athletes to pursue their goals
With his sights set on future global competition, he said: “I’m still building”
Read more on page 6
Photo / Kelly O’Hara
Breaking up with big tobacco
I am not a smoker. Nor an ex-smoker But a sleeping smoker A hibernating smoker A cranky old bear that could waken and combust in a cloud of cigarette smoke given the chance.
Because, even though it’s half a century since I quit, since I finally stubbed out, if the moment was right, if it was late and loud, if there was a glass of red
wine involved, if the chat was right and someone was passing round a free, cheeky ‘durry’, I might weaken
Absolutely I might.
Because nicotine is a cruel and highly additive poison It owns you, doesn’t let you forget, doesn’t let you go Ever Big tobacco gnaws away at the soul, so you have to be vigilant
The man who saved me from myself was a fire and brimstone “ stop smoking” psychotherapist who evangelised to a bunch of us tragic and beaten addicts:
“You think B&H are your comfort? You think Rothmans are your friends?” he bellowed at us in Bible-bashing style “Well, your comfort and friends are your goddamn enemy!”
Those were the days, the early 1980s, when “friends” and “enemies” cost $1 08 for a pack
20 Today they cost the thick end of $50 Anyhow, this psychotherapist clambered from his pulpit and demanded everyone light up a cigarette
Figure that? Smoking at a ‘ stop smoking’ cl
Why all this, you will be asking? Because last week I was consumed by a cloud of Chernobyl proportions – packed with more than 7000 nasties including arsenic, ammonia and nicotine Second-hand smoke from a wizened, diehard fagger, hanging off the end of a $3 tailormade at a hospitality venue Good on you bloke Thanks for that Made my feelings known – nothing more sanctimonious than a reformed anything
Cough
and gob
He was unapologetic He was outside, in a designated area, so he was allowed to smoke Yup, he was But his poison wafted where people were relaxing
Like starting an AA meeting with a Jägerbomb Or committing a quick ‘with intent to injure’ before a restorative justice conference
Gag, heave, wheeze
chugged one of those cute, brightly coloured electronic devices, everyone and everything was enveloped by a huge cloud of Blue Razz, or Polar Mint or Vanilla Custard I was waiting for a K99 – radio code for fire appliance in attendance, scene well involved And everyone downwind winced at the sickly sweet by-product Less harmful than cigarette smoke but still not safe
So another round of complaining and abuse And another burst of selfentitlement from the vapers.
Never, ever, again
Is there a lesson to be learned from Queensland? It has clobbered vapers
The sale of nicotine vaping products from retails shops is now banned They’re now deemed to be prescription medicines and only legally sold from a pharmacy to adults with a valid prescription.
In the UK, they’ve passed a Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which effectively creates a “smoke-free generation” It’s illegal to sell tobacco to anyone born on, or after, January 1, 2009 –a rolling ban which raises the legal smoking age by one year, every year, starting in 2027 That means anyone born after that date will never be able to legally buy tobacco products in the UK.
Miss a chance?
Had I been born in another time and in another country, that would have saved me a helluva lot money and coughing fits
We puffed on Nothing said Just a heaving of tarred and tortured lungs, coughing, and a low cloud ceiling of cigarette smoke Disgusting When a fag was finished, another was lit, and another, and another Industrial strength chain smoking People turned green, retched, gasped And puffed again Everyone on the brink of self-immolation Smoking ourselves into submission We teared up, gagged, heaved, wheezed And puffed again I feel quite nauseous at the memory I can smell it Distinctly Phantosmia or olfactory hallucination they call it – the smell of an odour that isn’t there But like my gym socks, the smell is there, and will never go away It worked though – I went cold turkey on a 20-a-day cigarette habit, 40 on a big Saturday night
to breathe They shamed him into moving where he coughed and gobbed. Nice! And not before he dropped half a still burning cigarette in the ashtray, causing wisps of smoke to drift over everyone and everything for a few minutes Nicer! Not being holier than thou – I could have been ghastly, nasty, smokey, bad man had it not been for my “tough love” psychotherapist in 1980 A table away three young vapers were self-immolating Whenever someone
Apparently we had similar worldleading “smoke-free generation” legislation but it was repealed – partially, it seems, to fund tax cuts, and mitigate the risk of a tobacco black market And there were other bullets in the anti-smoking arsenal Did we pass up a chance?
At the end of my ‘ stop smoking’ class, I watched Mr Pointy Head climb in his car where he promptly lit up a fag Do as I say, not what I do I am still doing as he said Thank you
Trying
Snapped! The evidence
Petitioon launched over Pāpāmoa toll
Loretta Johnstone, who owns and operates Mitre 10 Pāpāmoa with husband Brian, has launched an online petition calling for the toll to be reconsidered.
The couple are relocating their store at Gravatt Rd to a new Mitre 10 MEGA development at the Sands in Pāpāmoa East –a major investment expected to create more than 80 jobs. However, Johnstone said the newly approved toll risks undermining that growth. “This is not about debating toll roads in general,” she said.
“The Pāpāmoa interchange is the only offramp on the Tauranga Eastern Link that will be tolled anywhere in New Zealand – and that’s what makes it unfair”
From late 2026, drivers will pay $1.10 for light vehicles and $2.80 for heavy vehicles between Domain Rd and the interchange, in addition to existing TEL tolls.
Johnstone said the cost will quickly add up for residents. “As a mainly commuter community, this impacts people taking kids to school, going to sports, or travelling to Tauranga and Mount Maunganui for work. Families haven’t fully realised the daily cost Even a short trip could mean multiple toll charges a day”
She also questioned why interchanges elsewhere were not tolled and warned some drivers would avoid the route altogether
“Why would places like Tauriko, Sandhurst or Hamilton East not be charged to use an off-ramp? It doesn’t make sense that Pāpāmoa East is being singled out.
“There’s already congestion through Te Puke, and that will only get worse as Pāpāmoa East grows, ” she said.
“We have staff who will choose to drive through Te Puke rather than pay two tolls each day”
Johnstone said the toll could have wider economic implications, particularly for new developments like the Sands.
“As a greenfields site, we ’ re already planning for gradual growth, but adding a toll creates another barrier and could discourage other retailers from investing in the area, ” she said.
“With the rising cost of living, an extra daily cost to get to work is significant. It’s something our team is worried about, and it’s not attractive for people we ’ re trying to hire.”
She said some customers had already indicated they may not follow the business to its new location because of the toll
In response, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) regional manager for system design Susan Collins said the second toll point was approved following a full assessment and public consultation process.
More than 3400 submissions were received, with low levels of support, but the NZTA
board recommended proceeding. The decision was approved by the Minister of Transport and Cabinet.
“Tolling enabled the construction of the Tauranga Eastern Link to be brought forward and ensures all users contribute to the road they are using,” Collins said.
Tauranga City Council infrastructure portfolio manager Chris Barton said the council had not been a party in decisionmaking on tolling, nor received any revenue from the tolls
“Council made a submission [to NZTA during the consultation period]. In summary,
Tauranga City Council acknowledges the need for fairness in tolling for anyone using (part of) the Tauranga Eastern Link but advocated for a lower toll fee Tauranga City Council also raised concerns around
consistency in tolling,” Barton said.
“Whilst some users may choose the free route rather than the toll route, we do anticipate some users will choose the faster tolled route. Opening of the interchange still provides an improved outcome and options compared to before [the interchange].”
Collins said the additional toll point would ensure all users contribute fairly
“Those who benefit from improved access and reduced travel times should share in the cost, rather than relying solely on national funding or existing toll payers. ”
Johnstone, however, maintained that the policy placed an unfair burden on the local community “If people oppose the toll, I encourage them to sign the petition so their voices can be heard.”
Tipoftheiceberg?
Brian and Loretta Johnstone at the interchange Photo / Kelly O’Hara
Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Historic Hopukiore caves sealed
Three historic caves at Mount Maunganui’s popular and culturally significant Hopukiore (Mt Drury) Reserve have been sealed with uniquely patterned barriers following engagement with mana whenua.
“The Hopukiore caves were sealed following engagement with mana whenua due to ongoing operational issues and disrespect such as graffiti and littering,” Tauranga City Council head of spaces and places Alison Law said.
“The caves hold cultural significance, and their protection is important to mana whenua and council.”
Law said the cave protection design, which is laser-cut onto the barriers, was developed in partnership with mana whenua.
“Artists from both Ngāi Tukairangi and Ngāti Kuku provided designs that were incorporated into the corten steel panel. The intent was to respectfully acknowledge the cultural significance of the site while clearly signalling that access to the caves is restricted.”
The panels also include gated access for maintenance and rubbish removal.
Law said it was hoped removing public access to the caves would protect them from littering and vandalism and reduce anti-social behaviour in the area.
The caves have long-standing cultural importance with Hopukiore a site for tā moko (traditional tattooing), with kiore (native rat) teeth and bones used as tools.
Following the Battle of Hopukiore in
1820, its caves were used for burials, and the site remains a wāhi tapu (sacred place).
In the 1840s, the 40-metre high Hopukiore was used by British troops as a military base. The 80th Regiment occupied the hill from 1842 to 1843. In 1852, Commander Byron Drury, after surveying the Bay of Plenty aboard HMS Pandora, was recognised by naming it
Mount Drury
More recently, a man lived in one of the caves for two years. “The cave protection was not specifically implemented as a response to homelessness, although mana whenua did express a desire for the caves to be protected for this reason as well,” Law said.
“The request to seal the caves predates the period when people were living in them.”
Law said safety concerns related to landslides or rocky slopes were not a factor in the decision.
“Council has been working on a range of improvements at Hopukiore and has been actively engaging with mana whenua, Heritage New Zealand, and the accessibility community”
The original total budget for the pathway and cave works was about
requiring the removal of two of the 12 carparks On the Maunganui Rd side, a timber boardwalk had replaced sections of steep and narrow path, improving accessibility
The footpath upgrades were completed mid-2025, while the cave sealing was finished last month
$400,000, with representatives of Ngāti Kuku and Ngāi Tukairangi hapū consulted on the upgrade.
As part of the improvements, a missing section of pathway along Pacific Ave had been completed, creating a continuous loop around the base of the reserve, and
Law said engagement on the project had also informed plans to upgrade the existing playground, with a strong focus on inclusivity
“The timing of construction will be aligned with the plans for reopening Mauao, which will need to be staged, and it must be based on safety evidence,” Law said Rosalie Liddle Crawford
The designs developed in partnership with mana whenua have been laser-cut onto the corten steel panels. Photo / Kelly O’Hara
Frocks on Bikes keeps cycling social
For Tauranga’s Frocks on Bikes, cycling isn’t about speed, competition or lycra – it’s about connection, confidence and cycling.
The community group, which encourages women to get out on their bikes, has been quietly building momentum since it launched locally in 2010. Today, it offers regular rides, social outings and a supportive environment for riders of all abilities.
Co-organiser Rachel Blennerhassett said the group is all about making cycling accessible and enjoyable. “It’s very relaxed - no stress, no fuss,” she said “You don’t need special gear It’s just about getting out there and enjoying it ”
Frocks on Bikes began in Wellington in 2008 after participants in a Bike to Work Day noticed a lack of female participation Barriers included perceptions around cycling culture and clothing
The name itself challenges those ideas
“A frock is kind of the opposite of what people think of as typical cycling wear, ” Blennerhassett said “It shows you can just hop on a bike as you are ”
While frocks are encouraged, they’re not essential Many riders opt for practical clothing with a fun twist
“It’s not necessarily actually practical, but most of our leaders do try and grab a frock or a skirt or something to kind of look the part, ” Blennerhassett said.
Rachel joined the group around five years ago after getting a bike and looking for new places to ride beyond her Welcome Bay neighbourhood
“I was wanting to find other places to ride outside of my neighbourhood,” she said “By joining Frocks on Bikes, I slowly got to know of all the other bike routes around ” She later stepped into a leadership role and is now part of a team of five organisers – Rachel, Laura, Sue, Katy and Maleta –who coordinate the Tauranga rides
“We now have five leaders, so that we can hopefully just set a calendar and go, okay, between the five of us, we should be able to get at least two, if not three of us there to help run the ride ”
Rides are held monthly, alternating between Saturdays and Sundays, and
usually run for two to three hours including a café stop
“The coffee stop is always the social side of the ride,” Blennerhassett said “You can ’ t really socialise on a bike ” Popular routes include Pāpāmoa to Maketū, rides out to Ōmokoroa and around Tauranga’s extensive network of cycleways
An upcoming ride on May 17 through McLaren Falls and along the Ruahihi Canal will take advantage of the autumn scenery
“It won ’ t be a very long ride, but it’ll be very pretty that time of year – assuming Mother Nature plays ball, of course ” The group is also looking to expand its
horizons with day trips further afield, showcasing other scenic cycling spots within easy reach of Tauranga such as Rotorua and the Waikato cycle trails
While many members now use e-bikes, the group welcomes all riders and ensures no one is left behind
“We are not exclusively an e-bike group; we do welcome people on manual bikes as well,” Blennerhassett said “We try and keep the pace to such that they can actually participate without running themselves ragged ”
To support riders of different abilities, leaders position themselves throughout the group
“We’ll have one who’s the leader, one who’s in the middle, and one who’s a tailend Charlie,” Blennerhassett said “So that the group stays together”
Group sizes vary from small gatherings to more than 20 riders, and participants are encouraged to RSVP via the Frocks on Bikes Tauranga Facebook page
Despite the name, the group isn’t strictly limited to women with partners sometimes joining in
“We do occasionally have what we call ‘honorary frocks’ come along,” Blennerhassett said “As long as they’re happy being outnumbered and henpecked, we don’t mind.”
At its heart, Frocks on Bikes is about removing barriers and making cycling feel approachable
“It’s about getting on your bike, whenever you can, ” Blennerhassett said
For more information or to join an upcoming ride, visit Frocks on Bikes Tauranga on Facebook.
Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Rachel Blennerhassett, Katy Freeman and Maleta Knight are three of the five Frocks on Bikes leaders. Photo / Kelly O’Hara
Olympic discus thrower Connor Bell has quietly relocated to Bethlehem, bringing one of New Zealand’s top field athletes into the Tauranga community as he balances elite sport, study, and a more grounded training base.
The 24-year-old national record holder in the discus throw has represented New Zealand at 2018 Youth Olympic Games, 2022 Commonwealth Games, 2023 World Championships, 2024 Paris Olympics and 2025 Tokyo World Championships.
He moved to Tauranga earlier this year after competing in Tokyo, where he placed 10th, leaving his 70L bin full of discuses back in Auckland at his parents ’ place.
After a short holiday with his partner Bridget, Bell initially spent time in Whangārei before settling in Tauranga in mid-to-late January – a move he said was influenced by lifestyle and training logistics. “We moved down to Tauranga mainly because my partner got a really cool job working for SLR, and my coach lives in Pāpāmoa, so it’s really convenient for both,” he said.
Good reset
Bell said the change had provided a good reset after a busy international season. He is coached by Kirsten Hellier, one of New Zealand’s most respected throws coaches, and continued to be part of High Performance Sport New
Zealand’s wider support system.
Despite stepping back slightly from full competition load this year, Bell’s résumé already places him among the country ’ s most successful field athletes
He holds multiple NZ age-group records and a senior national record. In 2023, he broke the national discus record twice, ultimately extending it six times as a senior, pushing it to 69.51 metres in 2025 in the United States.
Whole team effort
“Being an individual sport, people think it’s just you, ” he said “But really, I’ve got a whole team behind me – coaches, physios, nutritionists, psychologists. They all contribute to those performances ”
Bell said one of the biggest shocks of competing at the Olympics was not the competition itself, but the intensity of global attention surrounding it “There was so much media presence and build-up, and then afterwards everyone just moves on really quickly,” he said “That was a big learning for me – how fast the world moves on from big moments ”
Now balancing his athletics career with full-time study towards a Bachelor of Science in psychology with Massey University, Bell said he was deliberately taking a slightly quieter year as he adjusts to life in Tauranga and prepares for future goals, including the 2027 World Athletics Championships
His interest in psychology is closely tied to both sport and broader systems such as emergency communications and human performance under pressure. “I’m really in
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interested in how people make decisions in high-pressure environments and how systems can be designed to reduce error and improve performance,” he said
Giving back
Bell also spends time giving back to the community, visiting local schools through New Zealand Olympic Committee ambassador work, where he shares his journey from a small rural school in Waitoki to the world stage “I talk about how sport gave me
Olympic discus throwwer lands in Tauranga
confidence when I was struggling socially at school,” he said “It’s about showing kids that you can come from anywhere and still achieve big things ”
For now, Tauranga offered a quieter base for one of New Zealand’s most recognisable throwing talents – with training, study, and community engagement all forming part of his next chapter “I’ve had some really special moments in my career already,” he said “But I’m still building ” Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Discus thrower Connor Bell with his 2018 Youth Olympic gold medal Photo / Kelly O’Hara
Chocky fish donut supports CF awareness
A Pāpāmoa food trailer has turned a Kiwi treat into a force for good, with a special donut created to support Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month.
OMG! Decadent Donuts owner Aleesha Goudie has launched a limited-edition ‘Chocky Fish’ donut, with proceeds going to Cystic Fibrosis New Zealand – a cause close to her heart Goudie’s young niece,
who lives with cystic fibrosis, was the inspiration behind the initiative
“She’s just turned 3 and has had a really happy, healthy start to life,” Goudie said “But it’s something her family has to think about every day It changes everything ”
Wanting to make a meaningful contribution, Goudie combined a long-held idea for a chocolate fishinspired donut with the timing of Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month. Chocolate fish have become a symbol within the cystic fibrosis community, making the concept
especially fitting
“It just felt like the perfect opportunity to turn something into a fundraiser,” she said. “It’ great cause for us to support because it’s so close to our family”
The Chocky Fish donut blends two existing flavours – strawberr and vanilla with cacao and sea – to recreate the nostalgic taste the classic chocolate fish. While the donut itself remains round, the flavour captures the familia combination of chocolate and marshmallow
During May, when customers purchase a six-pack of the donuts $5 is donated to Cystic Fibrosis New Zealand. There is also an option to donate a gold coin in exchange for a chocolate fish. Goudie said community fundraising is a big part of what her business stands for “I really love the local, community vibe We’ve done fundraisers before, and it’s amazing what people will get behind when it means something.” Her connection with Cystic Fibrosis NZ is growing, with plans to link with local families and support the community beyond May
Goudie said the fundraiser reflected the inclusive philosophy behind OMG! Decadent Donuts – a business built around making treats all can enjoy The donuts are vegan, gluten-free and made without common allergens, allowing more people to indulge without worry “We want people to feel like they don’t have to miss out, ” she said. “And if we can do that while also giving back, that’s even better”
The Chocky Fish donuts are available throughout May at the OMG! Decadent Donuts trailer at 1 Enterprise Drive, Pāpāmoa.
Rosalie Liddle Crawford
OMG! Decadent Donuts owner Aleesha Goudie has launched a limited-edition Chocky Fish donut.
Photo / Kelly O’Hara
Historic Tauranga scene brought to life
A striking new mural in central Tauranga is turning back the clock, capturing a moment from the city’s earliest days and honouring the people who helped shape it.
Painted by multi-disciplinary artist Graham Hoete, the large-scale artwork at Aspen Reserve on the corner of Willow and McLean streets is a reproduction of a historic photograph from the 1880s.
The image shows two Māori men working to form what is now Willow St – one seated in a horse-drawn cart, the other standing with a wheelbarrow and spade, a small dog by his side.
Local historian Buddy Mikaere said the men were members of Ngāi Tamarāwaho hapū of Ngāti Ranginui and were among those who carried out major infrastructure work in early Tauranga.
Making Willow St
horse and cart, played a key role in shaping Tauranga’s early transport routes and waterfront
Mikaere, who suggested the mural concept to council, said the image was chosen for its direct connection to the site. “I knew that photograph existed, and it’s just about where the reserve is, so it felt really appropriate.”
The mural forms part of ongoing
efforts to enhance Aspen Reserve, a small inner-city park with deep historical roots.
“One of the men is Matiu Tu Teau. They’re basically making Willow St,” Mikaere said. “These are the same men who worked on cutting through the area by where Trinity Wharf is today, helping create space for the railway line and contributing to the reclamation along The Strand and Chapel St.” The work, done largely by hand with
Plans for the space include carved pou, improved seating and the potential for a small performance area for events such as jazz concerts.
Preserving, sharing Hoete said the project was an opportunity to explore Tauranga’s layered history while respecting the original photographer “It’s not about making it a
that moment in time.
‘Mr G’ artwork,” he said “It’s about preserving and sharing time ” in between ” Aspen Reserve itself sits on land significant to both Māori and early settlement large
Working from an archival image sourced through the Tauranga library, Hoete completed the mural in just under four days, carefully balancing artistic interpretation with historical accuracy
“The original photo was quite blurry, so it was a challenge,” he said “I tried to stay true to what I could see and not overinterpret it.”
For Hoete, the mural is part of a broader commitment to telling local stories through public art.
“It’s about keeping those conversations alive – the good, the bad, and everything
It feels like getting your life back
Sarita’sgrandsonwantedtokicka ball
He’s two That’s what two-year-olds do They find a ball, they kick it, they chase it, they want you to chase it with them It’s not complicated It’snot meant tobe hard
But forSarita,it hadbecome a real mission
“I thought I was just getting to that stage,” the 68-year-old Southland woman says “Getting old and sliding to the sideline now, youknow?”
Sarita lives in Southland, where cold seems to get into everything The winters are long, the frosts are sharp, and if your joints are giving you trouble, the weather makes sure youknowabout it
She had always been active Walking, gardening, keeping the section tidy But over time,everythingstartedtoslowdown
Her ankle lost its strength Her knees began toresist Herbackjoinedin Itcreptacrossher bodylike a frost,settlingintoeveryjoint
The gardening went first Then the walking Thenthe lawnsbecame a battle
The worst moment came when her son visited He looked at the garden she could no longer keep up with And he did what any goodsonwoulddo He rippedit out
“It was like ripping my heart out,” Sarita says “But I couldn’t keep up with it I knew Icouldn’t ”
That’s the thing about losing your independence slowly The people who love you start stepping in And every time they do, the worldgetsa little smaller
One afternoon, Sarita walked into her local chemist looking for something different The womanbehindthecounterhandedherasmall, NZ made,natural cream,KoruFX
“She said, try this and see how it goes,” Sarita recalls
Sarita wasn’t entirely convinced She’d been dealing with her joints for long enough
She kept using it Morning and night Afew daysin,she went backandbought more
The change came in small moments By the secondweek,shewasmovingmorefreely By the third,the improvement wasreal
Then the weather changed In Southland, that’s the real test Sunshine gave way to rain, and Sarita braced herself for the rebellion that alwaysfollowed It didn’t come
She mowed the lawns Started thinking aboutthegardenagain Andthentherewasher grandson
“Being supported I can run around with him,” Sarita says “I can chase him and I can even race him I can kick balls with my right foot and my left foot Before, I just couldn’t trust myself”
She had him over recently They spent the afternoon chasing each other, kicking balls
Thekindofafternoonthattwo-year-oldsthink isnormal andgrandmothersknowisa gift
“It feels like you’ve got life back in you,” she says “Andthat’sall Iwanted”
European settlement, once part of a large, cultivated area.
The reserve has held small community events, and discussions around its redevelopment were held in 2017 as part of Tauranga City Council’s ‘Heart of the City’ programme aimed at revitalising the CBD.
A blessing for Aspen Reserve is planned for 9am, May 11, taking place ahead of further enhancements to the site.
As the mural now looks out over the evolving reserve, it offers passersby a glimpse into the past - and a reminder of the hands that helped build the city
Crawford
Rosalie Liddle
The mural at Aspen Reserve is a reproduction of a photograph taken in the 1800s Photo / Graham Hoete
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What’s inside the classroom science kits?
As the nationwide rollout of House of Science resource kits gathers pace, many are curious and asking a simple question: what exactly is inside the boxes heading into classrooms?
The answer, according to House of Science kit designer and medical microbiology scientist Jane Hoggard, is a carefully-crafted collection of experiments, resources and activities designed to turn curiosity into hands-on learning The kits are a comprehensive library of bilingual resources that empower teachers to deliver great science lessons
Founded in Tauranga by CEO Chris Duggan, the organisation was selected by the Government in February as the supplier for the nationwide rollout of curriculum-aligned science kits to every state and state-integrated school for Years 0-8.
Hoggard’s job is to design them from the ground up – developing the experiments, trialling them in schools and preparing them for large-scale production before they are distributed to regional centres around the country
Each kit arrives at a school packed with everything a teacher needs to run a series of science lessons.
“There’s a teacher manual and usually 8 to 10 experiments in every kit,” Hoggard said.
“All the equipment and consumables are included, so teachers don’t have to go out and source anything themselves. The idea is that everything they need to deliver the activities is right there in the box.”
The kits are designed for students from
Year 0 to Year 8 and remain at a school for about three weeks, allowing multiple classes to use them before they are returned, checked, restocked and sent out again.
Spark interest
Teachers can choose from a growing library of topics – currently numbering more than 40 different kits – covering areas such as earthquakes, microbes, buoyancy, heat, forensics, space science and the ocean.
Catchy names help spark interest, with kits including titles like Float My Boat, exploring buoyancy, Mighty Microbes, which looks at microorganisms, and May the Force Be With You, focusing on the science of forces.
The kits incorporate stories, experiments and practical investigations designed for different age groups, meaning younger students might begin with basic observations while older students explore more complex ideas.
Hoggard said the aim is not just to teach scientific facts, but to develop critical thinking skills.
“It’s about getting students to observe carefully, ask questions and think about evidence,” she said
“Science isn’t just about producing scientists – it’s also about helping people become scientifically literate so they can
look at information, interpret it and make informed decisions.”
Developing a new kit can take several months, Hoggard said.
The process begins with research and prototyping, followed by classroom trials in “ test schools” where teachers and students try the activities and provide feedback.
From there the resources are refined, translated into te reo Māori, and prepared for manufacturing “We want to know how it works in a
real classroom,” Hoggard said “If something needs adjusting, we change it before it goes into full production ”
Durable, practical
The kits are also designed with durability and practicality in mind.
They must be robust enough to withstand repeated use by hundreds of students while remaining simple for teachers to set up and pack away
The resources are then assembled in Tauranga before being distributed through regional House of Science centres that manage deliveries,
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A three-dimensional puzzle of the tectonic plates of the Earth helps students understand how the planet is structured.
returns and maintenance With the new Government contract set to expand the programme to every state and state-integrated primary and intermediate school, the scale of production is about to increase dramatically.
About 1400 kits circulate around the country every three weeks to more than 700 schools
Within the next two years that number was expected to grow to about 8000 with House of Science expanding to reach about 2100 schools
Reach 500,000
Duggan said while that is a threefold increase in the number of schools, it represented a tenfold increase in the number of students impacted
“From a current reach of 50,000 students every three weeks, we need to scale up to reach 500,000,” she said “We will also need four times the number of staff to manufacture and deliver the kits ”
The growth would see the organisation move into larger premises in Judea to accommodate increased production and operations, with national coverage expected by early to mid-2027
Despite the growth, Hoggard said the core aim remained the same as when she first joined the initiative as a volunteer more than a decade ago
“At the heart of it, we want kids to stay curious about the world around them,” she said
“If you can keep that curiosity alive when they’re young, it makes a huge difference to how they approach learning later on ” Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Poripori Road will be closed to through traffic for about eight weeks while essential works are carried out to repair two significant roadside slips.
The slips, which developed in 2023 during Cyclone Gabrielle, had continued to deteriorate over time and were affecting the stability and integrity of the road, according to Western Bay of Plenty District Council.
The road closure between Kumikumi Rd and Tebbutt Rd would be in place from May 11 to July 3, dependent on weather, the council said
The larger slip, located about 600m south of Tebbutt Rd would require a full 24/7 closure while a mechanically stabilised earth wall and associated drainage and structural works are completed
“Residents will still be able to access their properties
Smarter shades, lower energy bills
from either side of the site, however there will be no through access, ” council said
A second slip, located about 600m from the State Highway 29 intersection, would be repaired under Stop/Go traffic management.
“This work includes minor earthworks, stormwater upgrades, kerb and channel installation, and chipseal surfacing, with delays expected.”
Detours wouldbe in place via SH29, Cambridge Rd, SH 2, Wairoa Rd and Crawford Rd. Council’s director transportation Calum McLean said this was a complex slip repair project, and “ a full closure was the safest and quickest way to complete the work”.
For updates, visit: yourplace.westernbay.govt nz/poripori-road-slip-repairs
A slip on Poripori Rd. Photo / Supplied
World’s best gin made right here in Tauranga!
Tauranga-based Clarity Distilling Company has made history on the world stage, with its Clarity Navy Gin crowned Gin of the Year at the 2026 London Spirits Competition –the first time a New Zealand gin has taken out the title
Competing against gins from more than 30 countries, the win marks a major milestone for the young distillery and a standout moment for the craft spirits industry in Aotearoa
The Navy Gin also secured Double Gold and Spirit of the Year New Zealand, achieving an outstanding 98-point score – the highest in the competition and one of four spirits overall to be rated so highly
The win builds on an extraordinary run for the distillery, which also claimed Gold and Spirit of the Year New Zealand in 2025 for its Clarity Navy Gin, and the same title in 2024 for its Clarity 2023 Gin – cementing its place as one of NZ’s most exciting emerging spirits brands
Launched early 2023, Clarity co-founders
George White and Stephanie Downer say the recognition is both humbling and motivating “We’re still a small, hands-on team from Tauranga, so to be consistently recognised on a global stage like this is pretty surreal,” George said “It’s a reflection of the work that’s gone in behind the scenes; sticking with our complex processes, even when it’s challenging ” Stephanie said if bigger international brands visited their set-up “they’d probably be pretty surprised – it’s a lot smaller than they might
expect ” The pair, who are often mistaken for a couple, are in fact long-time colleagues who’ve worked together for more than a decade
They first met when George acquired a business in Rotorua where Stephanie was working in 2015. After expanding the business, George sold it before the pair took a leap into an entirely new industry
An accountant by trade, George had no experience in the drinks sector beyond bartending in his younger years. Stephanie, a legal executive and solo mother to daughter Isabelle, was in a similar position “We really came into this with no preconceived ideas –we just enjoyed a great gin,” said Stephanie. “A lot of what we ’ ve built has come down to gut instinct, a huge amount of research and being incredibly detail-focused We’re always learning.”
That mindset had helped them navigate a tough operating environment, they said. Clarity launched at the start of the recession, yet had managed to achieve steady growth of between 5-10% year-on-year
The gin market itself – usually a summer favourite renowned for increased sales in spring and early summer – had proven unpredictable.
“The last 12 months especially have been all over the place,” said George. “We’ve had quiet periods when we expected things to be busy, and then suddenly big spikes when we didn’t. There’s no clear trend right now ”
With ongoing global pressures from tariffs, fuel costs and economic uncertainty, the business was taking a measured approach to growth. Positioned at the premium end of the market, Clarity Navy Gin retails at $84 99, making it a considered purchase for consumers “It’s definitely a top-shelf product,” said George. “So we ’ re realistic about the environment we ’ re operating in and focused on building sustainably”
D this con driv
product itself
The flavour profile, the way the botanicals are layered, the presentation – we ’ re extremely proud of how it all comes together,” said Stephanie. “Once people try it, they come back.”
The business had steadily expanded its footprint – it’s now stocked in bars, restaurants and bottle stores nationwide, while continuing to invest in production capability and new product development.
A key point of difference is Clarity’s meticulous production process. Rather than distilling all botanicals together – the industry norm – each ingredient is distilled individually before being blended.
“Every botanical behaves differently,” said Stephanie. “Some need time, some need a lighter touch. Treating them individually gives us full control over flavour and consistency”
Looking ahead, Clarity had its sights firmly set on the UK and Europe, with plans and opportunities already in motion.
“Our goal has always been to build something sustainable and long-term,” said Stephanie. “We’re proud of what we ’ ve achieved so far, but we ’ re still very much just getting started.”
Clarity Distilling Company co-founders George White and Stephanie Downer make their world-recognised gin here in Tauriko. Photos / Alice Veysey
Despite s, demand ntinued to grow, ven by the quality of the duct “The profile
Clarity Navy Gin was crowned Gin of the Year’at the 2026 London Spirits Competition.
New 30km/h variable speed limits for drivers
New variable speed zones around schools will be “actively enforced”, Western Ba of Plenty police say
y y p y
A new Ministry of Transport rule came into effect in October 2024, requiring streets outside urban school gates to have a 30km/h variable speed limit by July 1.
Rural schools must have a variable speed limit of 60km/h or less
The lower speeds will apply for up to 45 minutes during school drop-off and pick-up times.
Schools can also activate the signs for short periods at other especially busy times, such as school sport days. It means changes for schools where a Tauranga City Council-initiated 40km/h variable limit had previously been in place
The council has been installing new variable speed zone signs - covered for now - outside schools since late 2024.
“The reduced speed limits will be actively enforced,”
Hunter said
“Please take extra care when travelling through school zones and help keep our tamariki safe ”
The NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi website said variable speed limit signs would be installed outside all schools with gates on state highways by July 1.
Other affected local schools included Pahoia School on State Highway 2, where the 100km/h limit will drop to
60km/h when signs are active, and Pyes Pā Road School, from 80km/h to 30km/h. Kaimai School principal Matthew Jackson told NZME in February that its variable speed limit of 60km/h would be in place from 8am-9am and 2.20pm-3pm.
Jackson said the school was confident the new variable signs, with effective enforcement of these limits, would go a long way towards reducing the risk to the students and families of Kaimai School.
Council manager for transport strategy and assurance Karen Hay said these would start being uncovered on a rolling basis b t l t M d l J
between late May and early June.
Western Bay of Plenty head of road policing Senior Sergeant Wayne Hunter said variable speed signs were already active on the highways outside ACG Tauranga and Kaimai School on State Highway 29.
The speed limits at both locations would reduce from 100km/h to 60km/h when the signs were active.
Hunter said it could be a big adjustment for motorists in those areas.
The initial focus for police would be educating drivers, but from July, “she’ll be all on”, he said.
He asked that motorists be aware of the new variable speed school zones as they came into force, and adjust their speed accordingly
There are overtaking lanes on State Highway 29 outside Kaimai School. Photo / Kelly O’Hara
Council chair responds to Govt’s
Bay of Plenty Regional Council chair Matemoana McDonald said this week’s announcement on simplifying local government underscores the importance of strong relationships across the region and the sector
On May 5 the Government announced it would give councils a three-month window to put forward proposals to simplify and strengthen local government in their regions, said RMA Reform and Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Local Government Minister Simon Watts.
Bishop said New Zealand’s local government system is too complex, too costly, and too hard to navigate
“We currently have 78 city and district, regional, and unitary councils across the country – a high number for a country of our size
“Councils shape the places we live and the services we rely on. But too often, the system is tangled in duplication, disagreements, and decisions that defy common sense. ”
McDonald said: “While the changes ahead are significant and far reaching, working together will be essential in
local reform fast-track invitation
navigating the transition and ensuring communities continue to be well served”
“I’m pleased the Government is retaining regional councillor roles until the end of this term. They bring a wealth of experience, a deep understanding of their communities and the needs of the environment. Their voices will be essential in shaping a stronger, more effective structure for the future.”
McDonald noted the importance of regional-scale delivery and looked forward to more detail from the Government in due course.
“There are clear benefits
that come from operating at a regional scale, which we have always advocated for and will continue to do so ” While too early to determine whether the Bay of Plenty woould seek to enter the Government t ’ s proposed ‘Head Start’ processs, McDonald called for urgent regional collaboration. “I am requesting an urgent Bay of Plenty Mayoral Forum to discuss…and consider the nexxt steps for our region.
“Although much remains unknown, we have been preparing for change and are well positioned to help lead this transition.”
Localsupermarketcelebrates new facilitywithfree communityevent
Brookfield New World is hosting a free community event – of kai (food), games and a grocery giveaway – tomorrow to celebrate an upgrade to the supermarket’s click & collect facilities
From 10am-1pm customers are invited to enjoy a free sausage sizzle and bacon and egg butties while they check out the upgrade of the click & collect area adjacent to the store.
“We have some free games for people to play, and some prizes and giveaways worth $2000 in total,” said Brookfield New World online manager Briar Marsden She said the free community
“We’ve had click & collect for quite some years now, but we ' ve got a brand new canopy that’s just been built This will keep everybody dry – our customers and staff – whether collecting or loading orders and keep them out of the sun in the summertime.
“We’ve also had new click & collect carpark linings painted and created a new layout to make the space bigger” Marsden said the work was done to make it easier for customers to collect their orders –“especially the ones with little children or the elderly, who use our services or need assistance with their groceries”
y event will celebrate their click & collect’s new facilities food, games and giveawa 10am-1pm
Marsden said everyone is welcome along tomorrow, May 9 – with the free ays from e to the and learn about ce and our brand enjoy some eats and have a nice time ” The iconic Kaimai Eggs ruck and staff will be on-site oo, for those wanting to earn about how heir product is produced locally at Aongatete So get along omorrow, May 9!”
“The whole event is free community to come in a our click & collect servic new space, but also e snacks and tre really n K tr w to w le th p a “ to M
Sponsored Content
WANTED TO LEASE ANTED T
The upgraded click & collect facilities at Brookfield New World. Photo / Supplied
Bay of Plenty Regional Council chairwoman Matemoana McDonald Photo / Supplied
Black Ferns inspire school students
The Black Ferns have swapped stadium lights for a school field, inspiring students with a surprise training session.
Cheers and wide-eyed excitement rippled across Te Kura o Matapihi on Monday as the Black Ferns took to the field in front of an audience of future players
Students and kaiako (teachers) welcomed the team with a waiata, followed by a thank you from player Katelyn Vaha’akolo
The team then responded with a waiata of their own, before beginning training.
Students, many of whom already played rugby themselves, described the experience as “exciting”, with some eager to pick
Marihi Fox, 9, said he had played rugby for “three or four years ” and wanted to get some advice on how to do “better tackles”
“I want to see some cool moves, some that we ’ ve never seen before.
“I think it’s really cool that they chose our school, even though there are millions of other schools they could go to ”
Te Iria Te Kakau, 10, said watching the Black Ferns train showed her that girls can be just as strong as boys.
“It’s very exciting, I’ve watched heaps of their games and my favourite thing is how they’re strong and they’re not boys, they’re girls ”
Te Iria said she had been two years and people earn how to pts ” and said g to ask the yers how to be “We [girls] be just as ng as boys ”
The students had made gns for the team, proudly holding them up and cheering as the Black Ferns trained on the school’s field
Kaiako Aroha
Munkedal said the visit was “ very inspiring” for the school community
“It’s just the visualness and physicalness of seeing them, rather
than seeing them on TV It’s very different having an experience like this.”
She said it was a “bit of surprise” for the school and they had to keep it under wraps for a couple of days.
“It’s awesome to see the wāhine Māori in sport who are doing so well and have reached the pinnacle of Aotearoa, they’re on the world stage. ”
Munkedal said seeing the team in person made a “huge difference” to the students’ outlooks and taught them how wāhine had to work hard to get where they were.
“Having the Black Ferns come to our little kura here in Tauranga Moana, where
you wouldn’t expect them to come, we feel really privileged.”
The training session was organised through connections with the Aotearoa Māori Sports Awards Trust, and chief executive Dick Garratt helped bring the team to the kura.
He said the goal was to give students a rare opportunity to witness what it took to reach the top level of sport – and to inspire them to pursue their own goals.
“These girls have had their own trials and tribulations to get where they are today They are world champions, Olympic champions, and so they’re showcasing that here today
“To see them in person and how they go through their training is an outstanding inspiration for our tamariki.”
Kaitlyn Morrell
The Black Ferns took to the field at Te Kura o Matapihi for a surprise training session in f front of f studdents. Photos / Kaitlyn Morrell
Te Kura o Matapihi kaiako Aroha Munkedal (left), with students Marihi Fox, 9 (centre), and Te Iria Te Kakau, 10, (right).
Orchard open day shows real-wworld ways to care for land
Two men from a Western Bay of Plenty iwi collective will open the gates to one of their orchards to visitors today as part of winning the Bay of Plenty Regional Supreme Winners title at 2026’s Ballance Farm Environment Awards.
Charles Russell and Tom Heeney of Mātai Pacific Iwi Collective, located in Te Puke were recognised for building a large-scale kiwifruit operation grounded in cultural values, environmental stewardship and strong commercial performance.
Spanning more than 224 hectares, with more than 101ha of productive canopy, Mātai Pacific Iwi Collective is a strategic partnership between Te Arawa Group Holdings, Ngāti Awa Group Holdings, and Rotomā No 1 Incorporation
Established in 2018, the business operates across 14 titles and produces both gold and green kiwifruit.
At the heart of the operation is a clear vision to create long-term prosperity while upholding the mana of the whenua as taonga tuku iho, an intergenerational treasure.
BOP Ballance Farm Environment Awards
Judges praised the strength of the collective’s governance and clarity of direction. “Clearly articulated objectives and strategy, embedded
within tikanga, with strong reporting systems that demonstrate accountability and measurable progress. ”
They also highlighted the balance achieved across all aspects of the business. “Decision making consistently balances environmental responsibility, cultural integrity and commercial performance, creating a resilient and future-focused enterprise.”
Judges said environmental stewardship was visible across the orchards, with 13,000 native plants established in 2025, alongside extensive wetland creation and riparian restoration The orchards also served as research sites, hosting trials on native pollinators and supporting biodiversity outcomes.
Innovation initiatives included recycling 450km of growing string annually into plastic pallets, use of drone technology for pest plant management and ongoing investment in emissions reduction through native planting under the Emissions Trading Scheme.
Judges recognised the broader leadership shown by the collective. “Thoughtful leadership, uplifting community and honouring the stewardship of both past and
future kaitiaki of their land.”
“Mātai Pacific Iwi Collective set a powerful example for other landowners…guided by long-term vision, stewardship and commitment to collective benefit for both people and the land.”
Mātai Pacific Iwi Collective CEO Charles Russell said for the collective, success was defined by more than financial performance. “We are most proud of delivering on our guiding principles – building sustainable growth, safeguarding our assets for future generations and embedding our Māori values into every aspect of our operations.”
As regional supreme winers, today the collective will host registered guests at its Mātai No 5 Orchard in Te Puke from 10am-noon The session would explore how productive land use can go hand-in-hand with environmental stewardship and community wellbeing with a focus on Manaaki Whenua Kaitiakitanga (biodiversity), Tiaki Whenua (on orchard) and Ora Tangata (social and community). Speakers would include Tim Woodward, Les Anstiss, Tom Heeney, Alex Shortcliffe and Charles Russell
Charles Russell and Tom Heeney of Mātai Pacific Iwi Collective
Mobile Te Puke Farrmers market
A new communitydriven initiative is set to bring fresh, locallygrown food closer to Te Puke residents – but organisers say they need more growers and makers to get it off the ground.
Supported by Te Puke Maketu Kai Resilience Group and led by Nina Vergnes from The Daily Café, the proposed Te Puke Farmers Market is taking a fresh approach to the traditional farmers’ market model
Still in the final planning stages, the project combines the idea of a weekly physical market with a mobile, order-andcollect system designed to better suit the region
seeks supppliers
“We feel like we ’ re very close to launching,” Vergnes said “Now it’s about making sure we have enough growers and makers involved to make it work ” The mobile concept is inspired by a successful rural model in Southland, where produce is collected from local suppliers and delivered to community “hubs” for pick-up Longwood Loop in western Southland works as an online ordering platform and uses a delivery van system to pull together produce from multiple local producers With the ‘paddock-toplate’ model, customers order online, then get a combined delivery Run by volunteers it’s often described as a ‘farmers market delivered to your door’ because
it bundles difffferent producers into one order and one drop-off route.
Produce rangge can include fresh milk, cheeses, meat cuts, eggs, veggetables, and small-batch gooods such as honey and preeserves
Vergnes said d under the Te Puke van and d hub delivery model, custommers would also place orders online, then collect thheir goods from nearby loocations or hubs across the area – from the township to surrounding communities such as Pukehina and Pongakawa.
“The idea is that people don’t have to travel far –less than 10 km – either to drop off their produce or to collect their shopping,” Vergnes said.
Organisers are working through logistics, including identifying
Recognise New Zealand horticulture industry’s unseen contributors
Horticulture New Zealand is calling for nominations for its 2026 industry awards, which recognise excellence, leadership, service and innovation across the sector
The awards span six categories and aim to highlight the often unseen contributions of individuals and teams driving the success of New Zealand horticulture
Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) board chair Bernadine Guilleux said the awards were an opportunity to shine a light on the individuals and teams whose efforts often go unrecognised
“These awards are about celebrating the people who make a real difference – those who lead, innovate, support others and consistently go the extra mile
“Nominating someone is a simple but powerful way to acknowledge that contribution and share their story with the wider sector and New Zealand ”
There are six awards categories: the Bledisloe Cup for outstanding and
suitable hub locations such as community halls, schools or local properties, while building a network of suppliers.
The system wouldn’t run public stalls but would operate on weekly routes and online pre-orders.
So far, about 10-15 growers and makers have expressed interest, but more were needed to ensure a strong and sustainable offering Growers and makers
interested in being part of the Te Puke Farmers Market can get in contact with Nina Vergnes by email on: nina@thedailyorg nz or drop in to see her at the Daily Café.
meritorious contribution to NZ’s horticulture industry; the President’s Trophy recognising persons showing promise in the industry business and/or leadership; the Industry Service Award, for people other than a grower, with dedicated service in a supplier or service role; the Sustainable Innovation Award for a person or team who are developing, or have developed, technologies, innovation or undertaken research that increases productivity, profitability or environmental sustainability; the Manaaki Award is for a person, group or organisation that had risen beyond the call of duty to support employers and workers; and the HortNZ Life Member Award for growers with dedicated service as office holders of HortNZ and/or an affiliated product group or grower association
Only HortNZ active grower members, affiliated product groups or associations can make nominations before June 15 Visit www hortnz co nz
Rosalie Liddle Crawford
The Daily Café manager Nina Vergnes.
Photo / Kelly O’Hara
Ōtanewainuku Kiwi Trust is having a forest work day this Sunday, May 10, to undertake bait station maintenance and line clearing.
Those interested need to arrive at Ōtanewainuku Shelter opposite the carpark at 680 Mountain Rd, Oropi, by 8 45am
All tools, gloves and boots brought by volunteers must be clean of soil and seeds to protect the biosecurity of the forest
New volunteers need to make themselves known to the person in charge of the day on arrival After a briefing new helpers will be partnered with an experienced volunteer on a suitable line according to fitness
New volunteers need to complete the trust ’ s online secure Volunteer Form before working in the forest. Visit: kiwitrust.org/get-involved/volunteer
Participants need to wear sturdy footwear or working boots, appropriate clothes, raincoat, and bring snacks and plenty of water Gardening gloves, a hi-viz vest and personal first aid kit –including any allergy medications – are recommended for the trip Sausage sizzle, biscuits and drinks will be provided afterwards Cancellations will be posted on the trust ’ s Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/otanewainuku
day on Maketū Spit
Volunteer day at Ōtanewainuku forest Coastal planting
Coast Care and Maketū Ongatoro Wetland Society (MOWS) are hosting a local planting day on Maketū Spit this Mother’s Day, May 10
People are invited to come along from 9.30am and asked to bring gardening gloves, gumboots or sturdy, covered walking shoes or boots, a sunhat, water and a raincoat just in case.
Those keen should meet at the Maketū boat ramp carpark on Beach Rd to be ferried across the channel to Maketū Spit Lifejackets will be provided For more information, contact MOWS chairperson Janie Sevenson on 022 027 6897 or email: janie@maketuwetlands org nz
C Collect pesky moth pllant podds to help local ecosystems thrive
Envirohub Bay of Plenty is calling on the community to take action against one of the region’s most persistent invasive weeds through its annual Moth Plant Pod Competition
As part of Envirohub’s Space for Nature programme, the competition invites individuals, schools, whānau and community groups to collect pods, keep them contained so they can ’ t burst and spread – and drop them at a weigh-in event on May 17.
Rose Riley of Space for Nature said the competition was aimed at preventing the spread of the damaging pest plant across local ecosystems
She said moth plant is a fast-growing invasive vine that smothers native vegetation and spreads rapidly through wind-dispersed seeds. “Each pod can contain hundreds to thousands of seeds, meaning every pod removed has a direct and measurable impact on reducing future infestations.
“We know how passionate our community is about protecting our environment,” Riley said
invasive vine that smothers native vegetation. Photo / Supplied
The May 17 event will run from 10am3pm, and also provides opportunity to hear from pest plant expert Dave Grimmer from Bay of Plenty Regional Council, to learn more about biodiversity and pest plant management.
Simple but powerful
“The event also highlights the importance of ongoing pest plant control and community-led environmental stewardship,” Riley said
“This competition is a simple but powerful way for people to get involved. Every pod collected is a step towards healthy biodiversity.”
Participants can collect pods from their backyard and local areas and bring them to the collection point at Envirohub’s base 31B Glasgow St from 10am on May 17
“The sticky milk from the plant is a skin irritant, so cover up and wear gloves,” Riley said.
Prizes will be awarded across a range of categories, recognising individual and group efforts
Fabulous plants, pots, crafts, garden tools, baking, jams and Mother’s Day treats will be for sale at Te Puna Quarry Park this Sunday, May 10.
The park’s annual Mother’s Day Plant sale will happen from 10am-1pm at the gallery building/dragon lawn area, with many items that will appeal to greenfingers.
Open now
“This is hands-on environmental action that anyone can take part in By working together, we can significantly reduce the spread of moth plant and protect our native biodiversity for future generations ”
The Space for Nature Moth Plant Pod Competition is open now For more information on how to participate, including collection guidelines and event details, visit: https://envirohub.org.nz/ event/moth-plant-pod-competition
Indoor, outdoor and potted plants will be for sale – so there will be something for any mother who loves gardening. There will be a pamper mum raffle; and children can make posies for mum too Cash and online banking payments will be accepted, and Ōmokoroa Lions Club will hold a sausage sizzle So take mum along and treat her!
The moth plant is a fast-growing
Bucchianico – a hobbit’s life for me
Half a Middle Earth away, nestled in the quaint town of Bucchianico, is Italy’s very own shire inspired by J.R.R Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings
Tackling the Kiwi quintessential two winters ago, one of my longtime besties and I squeezed our lives into our 60L suitcases, said goodbye to our hometowns and headed off on an OE After sailing through Croatia, busing through Albania, coasting in Corfu and ferrying over to Italy – it was finally time for Maya and I to join the wonderful world of WWOOFing That is, volunteering through Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms, Italia style!
Low on travel funds and ready to immerse ourselves into Italian culture, we booked the first volunteer spots we could – tomato harvesting in Bucchianico, a small town of province Chieti, Italy’s Abruzzo region. Warmly welcomed by hosts Luisa Giannangeli and Fabio Ruano to our new hillside home, we didn’t realise we’d soon see a little slice of Aotearoa in the unexpected way
Shire by night
Turns out Bucchianico has its very own real-life hobbit, Nicolas Gentile, who has built his shire styled village in the town ’ s countryside. While we didn’t get to meet the hobbit superfan ourselves, we did get to explore his shire by moonlight, wandering along lantern lit trails as we spied cosy looking hobbit homes. That night also happened to be an outdoor LOTR movie screening, and as I stood miles away from New Zealand, watching Italian dubbed Gollum on the projector shrieking, “Il mio tesoro! [My precious!]”, I felt like I was in a weird fever dream. I could almost
hear my mum saying, “You’re never far from ”. Yet, it wasn ’ t a dream induced by too much Limoncello – it was all very real – our Italian hobbit lifestyle had begun!
‘Mangia! Mangia!’
Like hobbits who notoriously love a meal, having not one but two breakfasts, our time in Bucchianico was deliciously centred around food. Whether we were harvesting it, preserving it, cooking it, trading it or having a cat nap after scoffing it – food was the order of the day
In the morning we’d wake to the whistle of a Moka espresso pot on the stove, slathering Luisa’s fig jam onto thick slices of homemade bread, before heading down to the old cellar to chop and boil
tomatoes for sauce, braid onions into bushels, and dry figs
Come afternoon, it was time to make the tastiest salads packed with baby potatoes, fresh greens, chunks of local cheese, family friend’s pasta, lashings of olive oil and flavourful tomatoes. Maya and I never wanted to put too much on our plates, yet with true hobbit mentality Luisa and Fabio would always shout, “Mangia! Mangia! [Eat, Eat!]”
With our bellies full, it was then time for our ‘pisolino’ or nap As the heat of the day eased, we’d head to the tomato fields overlooking the town, picking perfectly sunkissed tomatoes, before sharing stories around the dinner table with a cold beer and sometimes heading up the hill for a cheeky gelato and live music.
After two dreamy weeks living like this, it was time to say a
bittersweet farewell to our shire pace of life and our wholesome Italian family, setting forth to
the fiery pits of Mordor – aka London. Grazie Bucchianico!
Georgia Minkhorst
Above: Tomato harvesting at dusk with Bucchianico in the distance.
Left: One of hobbit superfan Nicolas Gentile’s cosy shire dwellings by night. Photos / Georgia Minkhorst
Playing the blues in a crisis
It shouldn’t surprise anyone to hear there’s something of a crisis in the music world; these days there are crises everywhere
There’s the oil crisis, the butter crisis, and the continuing affordability crisis, of which I’m currently stuck at the not being able to afford to get out of bed stage. It’s a worry
Clearly bands are having a hard time. It’s a squeeze from all directions
Touring bands are now paying a chunk more for travel, and audiences don’t have a lot of dosh to splash on going out.
So hats off to bands that are brave enough to be still doing the hard yards and to the venues that are still supporting music despite smaller crowd numbers.
I was struck by this when BB & The Bullets, the pride of Whanganui, played at Jack Dusty’s in Bureta a couple of Saturday’s back. BB & The Bullets is a blues-rock guitar trio led by singer-songwriter-guitarist
Brian Baker I’ve been keeping an eye on them because I reckon they are the hardest working band in the country
Old school way
What fascinates me is that they are doing it the old school way They released a debut album last year; half classic blues, half original They were signed to France’s prestigious Dixie Frog label. They released a second album last month. Each album has imaginative accompanying videos. And throughout that time they have toured relentlessly, up and down the country, playing for five or 500 people, gigging, gigging, gigging...
This is the classic template Or it used to be when the world leaned more
analogue Does it still work? I’m
fascinated but, in the meantime, the new album, Wrong Side of The River, is really impressive, impeccable hi-energy blues-rock It’s been charting in several places internationally, showing that they’ve certainly built a strong online following The crowd at Jack Dusty’s was down on numbers but enthusiastic As I mentioned at the start, bars all over are quiet so I commend Jack Dusty’s, which still features music Saturdays and Sundays, with an open mic night on Wednesdays and the ukulele group Mondays Good job!
New jam session
Also, a shout out to The Barrel Room and The Matua Bar for offering regular high quality music. And just a quick heads up, there is a new jam session every Thursday at the new Social Club in Greerton Sounds like some good
players have been turning up and much fun is being had.
In Waihī there’s a splendid double-header on May 22 when singersongwriter – and much more – Jan Hellriegel comes to town for a forum and concert at the Little Theatre. It’s come about because of the Air Sculptures songwriting courses Liam Ryan has been running in Waihī, working with 30 local songwriters Hellriegel will discuss her career since winning Most Promising Female Vocalist at the 1996 NZ Music Awards She now heads New Zealand’s main independent music publisher, Songbroker The forum is for an hour from 5pm, then the concert, with Dan Sharp opening, at 7pm.
Harvest market to takeoverTe Puna tomorrow
The annual Te Puna Harvest Market is on tomorrow, May 9, featuring local produce, craft stalls, food trucks, a live band, and giant pumpkin and scarecrow competitions.
The market will be held at Te Puna Hall, behind the BP station, from noon-4pm.
Entry is free and there will be attractions to draw young and old – including produce, crafts, flowers and plants, baking and preserves for sale, free children’s activities, a live band, dance performances, balloon magic, face painting, performing sheep, and a range of food trucks offering everything from ice cream to Korean cuisine; and Te Puna Schol will have a sausage sizzle There will also be a sale of ex-Te Puna Library books, at $2 each
BB & The Bullets.
Photo / Jack Michalski
A unique musical experience is coming to town
Opus Orchestra will present a powerful programme of orchestral and vocal music this month by pairing a New Zealand opera by Dame Gillian Karawe Whitehead with one of Beethoven’s most exhilarating works.
The Journey of Mataatua Whare alongside Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto will be performed at Baycourt Theatre from 3pm May 16 under the title Mataatua & Beethoven
Conducted by Peter Walls, the concert brings together two contrasting-yetcomplementary works to create a unique experience that reflects local stories and universal human themes
“The Journey of Mataatua Whare tells the true story of the great wharenui Mataatua, built in Whakatāne in 1875 by Ngāti Awa. Taken overseas without consent, the wharenui spent decades travelling the world before finally returning home in 2011,” Walls said. “It’s a very moving story
of history, loss, identity and return. ”
The work will be brought to life by three emerging Kiwi singers – soprano Katherine Winitana, baritone
Tomairangi Henare and bass Samuel McKeever, supported by Waikato University’s Voice Programme Ensemble and Opus Orchestra
The other piece – Beethoven’s beloved Emperor Concerto – has Kiwi pianist
Stephen De Pledge taking centre stage as soloist
“The Emperor is a truly symphonic concerto, majestic and triumphant, in which the pianist really gets to interact with the orchestra, which makes it such a joy to perform,” De Pledge said “I’m especially delighted to be making my debut with the orchestra of my ‘home’ region for this concert. ”
Mataatua & Beethoven is at Baycourt, Tauranga, on May 16 Tickets are available via Eventfinda; additional performances – with tickets via Ticketmaster – are May 15 at Sir Howard Morrison Centre in Rotorua and May 17 at BNZ Theatre, Hamilton See the advert on this page for more information
Thanks to Opus Orchestra, The Weekend Sun has two double passes to Mataatua & Beethoven to give to two readers who tell us who will perform as the piano soloist?
To enter, visit
www.sunlive.co.nz and click on the ‘competitions’ tab Entries must be in by Tuesday, May 12.
Building confidence for migrant workers
A new communication training programme aimed at helping migrants build confidence and succeed in New Zealand workplaces is returning to Tauranga this month.
Designed for migrants with a good level of English, the course focuses on building confidence and practical communication skills for real-world situations, including job interviews, workplace interactions and presentations
Multicultural Tauranga president Premila
conflict and engage effectively in professional and social settings The course with Speech NZ teacher Lee Watkins and mentor Pieter de Zwart is also expected to benefit those working in interpreting and translating roles
The Migrant Workplace Communication Training course, a collaboration between Multicultural Tauranga and Speech NZ, begins May 9 at the Multicultural Tauranga office in 17th Ave
D’Mello said the initiative supports both individuals and the wider community “As Tauranga continues to grow as a multicultural city, initiatives like this play a vital role in fostering inclusion, improving employment outcomes, and strengthening community connections,” she said
Participants will learn how to speak about their experience, give and receive feedback, manage
The course is aligned with the Speech New Zealand Professional Speaking syllabus, giving participants the opportunity to gain a recognised qualification with NZQA Level 3 equivalency
“By equipping migrants with the tools to communicate confidently, the course helps unlock opportunities not just for individuals, but for the wider region,”
D’Mello said The programme is heavily subsidised, with participants paying a $30 administration fee. Examination costs are covered ensuring accessibility for a wide range of participants.
Photo / Supplied
Sessions will run Saturdays through May and June, with an assessment day on July 4.
“The course offers more than just training, helping migrants build confidence, connections and a sense of belonging in New Zealand,” D’Mello said Spaces on the course are still available To register, email: manager@trmc co nz
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MATAATUA & BEETHOVEN OPERA IN CONCERT & PIANO CONCERTO
A moving new opera by Dame Gillian Whitehead and Beethoven Piano Concerto No 5
CONDUCTOR - Peter Walls
PIANIST - Stephen De Pledge
SINGERS - Katherine Winitana, Tomairangi Henare, Samuel McKeever
CHORUS - Waikato University Voice Programme Ensemble
16 May TAURANGA Baycourt Theatre, 3pm
Tickets from Eventfinda and at the door.
Opus Orchestra double bassists Alex Huang and William Taber Photto / Richhard d Lummus
Opus Orchestra performing inside Mataatua Whare. Photo / Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa
Participants whho complleted d thhe Migrant Workkpllace Communication Training course in 2025.
MOUNT MAUNGANUI RETURNED & SERVICES ASSOCIATION (INC) NOTICE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING (EGM) Firewood
DRY hot gum. $160 per cube. Free delivery to Tauranga/ Mount. Min. 2 cube order. Phone Keith 021 377 387.
Experienced, efficient, knowledgeable and highly qualified. Maintenance, pruning, hedges, shrubs, roses; disease/pest control, lawns, tree work, garden renovations; design and plant. Ph Ben 021 133 1857 bellissimolandscapes@hotmail.com
Wanted to Buy or Exchange
WANTED: Anything related to or from the old Grand Hotel, Princes Street, Auckland (1889–1966) Contact William 021 128 4043 / Email: tktk79201@gmail.com
Wanted to Rent
Your input and votes are vital to the future direction of the club To vote, you must be a current financial member
David Corin, Mount Maunganui RSA President
HOUSE/APARTMENT, 2 bdrm, close to city & long term very responsible couple. Phone 07 578 3668.
Western Bay of Plenty District Council is seeking extra feedback on the public toilet at Precious Family Reserve in Ōmokoroa.
The Projects and Monitoring Committee made the move following criticism about the consultation process before the toilet’s installation last July
After a robust discussion, councillors voted 8-2 for a new round of consultation on the presence and placement of a toilet in the reserve, including the current location, other options and the associated costs.
The council estimated it would cost $145,000 to relocate the toilet to a new position on the reserve, and $50,000 to remove it and relocate it to a different site elsewhere in the district. The cost of the project to date is $80,000, council said.
The toilet was installed after being approved by the Projects and Monitoring Committee at its June 2025 meeting It is part of the Precious Family
Reserve Concept Plan, which was adopted in 2018 following public consultation.
The plan, which showed the toilet in a different location, stated that the final site would be decided following investigations for stormwater management, the council said
Due to the location of underground wastewater pipes and storage tanks, the original location was shifted, with resource consent granted for a more suitable site nearby
Adjoining residents presented a petition to council in March 2025 opposing the new location.
Western Bay of Plenty District Council has advised that a portion of Te Puke Quarry Road will be closed for the month to allow contractors to safely replace a stormwater culvert.
The road – between numbers 20 and 39 – is expected to remain closed until May 30, weather
While there was no legal requirement to consult on the toilet’s exact location, it was acknowledged at this week’s meeting that there could have been better communication with adjoining residents and the community at large, given that it had been seven years since the concept plan was adopted, the council said. Consultation with the Ōmokoroa community will take place later this year
Council to seek community views on reserve toilet Te PukeQuarry Roadpartiallyclosed
permitting “Access to properties will be maintained, and staff will be on-site to assist when required,” council said.
Traffic management will be in place with a detour via Manoeka Rd Those with any questions or concerns can contact the council on 0800 926 732 or 07 571 8008.
Churches Active In Our Community
Does God have any interest in us –at all? At times, the horror of world events, along with our own struggles, can paint a picture of a distant God who cares little for what is going on in planet earth
We can seem like disposable purposeless beings, amongst the billions, who appear for a very short time in history, then fade away, forgotten.
There was a woman in the bible, an Egyptian slave girl, who was rejected and abused by her masters, and cast out into the wilderness. Her name was Hagar
The incredible thing about this story is that the Lord spoke to her, stating that He had heard her affliction, and told her of things to come for her and her offspring. Astonishingly, Hagar called the name of
God ‘El Roi’ meaning “the God who sees me ” which became one of the primary names of God.
This revelation to Hagar became a testimony of many throughout history and up to 2 6 billion Christians in our present day.
God is a personal God.
David exclaimed in Psalms: “O Lord, You have examined my heart and know everything about me”.
Samuel observed that: “…man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart”.
Jesus said: “I am with you always, even to the end of the age”.
Clearly, He is a God who sees us, knows us, and is with us – always.
The Precious family Reserve toilet. Photo / Supplied
