Serious splat attack!
Photo / Kelly OHara
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I beat sun-up by a couple of hours and wandered into town for a gaze, because that’s the kind of wonderfully crazy thing maladjusted old men like to do
Gloomy, cold, absurdly early on King’s Birthday Monday. “Happy Birthday Chuck!” Wonder if he went out “ on the chop” to celebrate?
Apparently HRH likes a Laphroaig or a Martini – not really a pint of bitter and pork scratchings kind of guy
Anyhow I was standing in Harington St staring up into the black beyond when a lady stopped to ask if I was alright How rude! She’s walking a dog in the middle of the night and I’m the one who’s nuts?
I explain I’m admiring the tower cranes that pierce the city skyline Even though it’s just gone 6 30am and not one wisp of daylight “Of course you are dear ” Condescending old moo
Rickety Meccano
I invite her on my ‘Way Forward Tour’ – to revel in the vibes from the downtown construction sites To see what’s up, and what’s going up The CBD is sprouting in all directions She huffed and shuffled off into the darkness
Anyhow I love those tower cranes – rickety Meccano-like monoliths that don’t look physically up for the job they’re expected to do The giants of construction – all jib, hooks, pulleys, leverage and counterweights
lifting, lowering and shifting stuff Doing the job of 1000 men in minutes It took 27 years to build the Great Pyramid of Giza
A Watts & Hughes Construction crane could have knocked that puppy out in a few months and gone waterskiing on the Nile
I am also curious? How does the crane keep soaring higher than the building it’s working on? Does the operator take his sarnies up with him in the morning? Or does he just hoist them when the hooter goes off? What’s the drill when he needs a pee? Can he afford to have a bad day at the office?
Gob on a finger
At night or during high winds, the cranes are left in “free slew”, allowing the boom to circle freely through 360 degrees like a
giant weathervane The boom always points downwind, the direction of the wind Or you could just gob or spit on your finger and hold it up – whichever side is coldest and dries fastest is the direction of the wind Way cheaper than a tower crane weathervane But both work
Reincarnation of the CBD Tipoftheiceberg?
My ‘Way Forward Tour’ started on the fringe of the CBD near the domain and perhaps the sharpest building on Cameron Rd A big sign screams ‘BLOOD’ Not the legend of the blood-sucking vampires of Transylvania playing out but the blood service phlebotomists doing their noble work Don’t drive past – stop and admire their building Quite special Pop in even They will find a vein to download blood equivalent to 1 5 cans of soft drink And save a life perhaps I once knew a team of phlebotomist netballers who went off to a weekend tournament and came home with wee vampires tattooed on their butts They’re committed Cute
A bit of Boston
The ‘Way Forward Tour’ continues down Harington St where they’re busy turning a sow ’ s ear into an accoutrement on a site sold for just one dollar I might have put
in a bid had I known. The transport hub is being refashioned into $60m worth of carparking and office spaces The recently finished Northern Quarter spanning across Harington and Hamilton streets would sit comfortably in the Red City, Boston, famous for its classical red brick buildings A dockside aesthetic they described it as See it from Harington St, and tell me it isn’t a work of art, that it isn’t cool A crane is sneaks above the hoardings right next door – a matching 200-room four-star hotel
There’s Craig’s new digs at 2 Devonport Rd – everything that could go wrong did go wrong on this site But great things are born of difficulty It’s a show-piece sentinel right at the foot of Devonport Rd
This is why I love those cranes They’re visible signs of a city evolving, soaring symbols of progress, renewal, revitalisation, of economic growth They tell me that down below, way, way below, is another investment in infrastructure, in our future A city is on the march
Cocking a snook
And it’s like those three tower cranes on our skyline are cocking a snook at the naysayers, the citizens against everything who insisted Te Manawataki o Te Papa – the heartbeat of Te Papa – would not and should not happen. “This is just bull***”, “fluffy want to haves” they said of the library and community hub, the museum and exhibition gallery But these cultural ‘ must haves’ are institutions that identify cities, are the heart of communities, and they’re bursting out Gaze down Willow St and soak it up A stunning architectural statement, a mass-timber design oozing local cultural narratives, the story of who we are and where we have come from. Te Manawataki o Te Papa – the heartbeat of Te Papa. Heartbeat? It’s bursting out of its chest, it’s pumping. Christchurch has a sports arena with a lid, Auckland a flash new underground rail corridor And we ’ re on the brink of having something very, very special and stimulating of our own.
New veteran support hub opens in Greerton
Veterans and their families across Tauranga and the Western Bay now have a dedicated place to seek support after the opening of the Western Bay Support Centre in Greerton.
The new centre, in Chadwick House at 250 Chadwick Rd, was opened on May 27 with a blessing of the building, memorial area and vehicles attended by invited guests, community leaders, RSA representatives and supporters.
Operated by the Tauranga RSA and in a building owned by the Tauranga RSA Support Trust, the centre provides one-on-one support services for current and former New Zealand Defence Force personnel, surviving spouses and family members.
Tauranga RSA president Mort Anderson said the facility reflects the organisation’s renewed focus on veteran welfare.
“We’re focusing on the core business of looking after veterans and their families,” Anderson said.
The centre includes meeting rooms, a kitchen, and offices for trained support advisers who help veterans navigate entitlements, welfare assistance and applications through Veterans’ Affairs New Zealand and other agencies
Support advisors
Lyn Thomas, who with Duncan Poole, is the centre ’ s support adviser, said many veterans and families are unaware of the assistance available to them
“A lot of people don’t know what they’re entitled to, ” Thomas said “Sometimes
it’s health-related support, sometimes it’s financial assistance, and sometimes it’s simply helping them understand what’s available ”
Thomas, who previously worked for Veterans’ Affairs and the War Pensions Office, assists veterans with applications and helps connect families with support services. She said surviving spouses, partners, and family members, including grandchildren, are often eligible for assistance but may not realise it.
The centre has already helped veterans experiencing hardship, including those needing housing support, and provides guidance on issues ranging from hearing aids and cataract surgery to pensions and welfare entitlements
The opening marks the culmination of several years of change for the Tauranga RSA after the sale of its former premises, shifting away from the traditional RSA model toward a stronger focus on welfare, advocacy and support.
Less building, more mission
In late-2024, the Tauranga RSA made the considered decision to sell its Cameron Rd premises and and last year purchased and relocated to Chadwick House.
Tauranga RSA Support Trust chair Fred Milligan said acquiring Chadwick House had provided the organisation with a stable welcoming base from which to grow its services.
“We’ve set the baseline and away we go, ” said the former Tauranga RSA president.
“The big thing now is getting out there and letting veterans know that we're here and we can support them.”
While the RSA continued to seek a future social hub for members, the new centre focuses on welfare, advocacy and remembrance activities while also staying connected with the Bay of Plenty community
Outside the building, a memorial area had been established incorporating items from the former RSA site.
The memorial has also been updated to recognise service in Afghanistan, acknowledging veterans who served there.
The focus
The support centre operates Tuesdays and Wednesdays with Thomas and Poole. Plans to expand services through additional regional support staff include district support manager Tricia Hague being based at the centre on Thursdays
and Fridays, providing a four-day spread of services. The long-term vision is to create a central point of contact that can connect veterans and families with the help they need, Milligan said “We’ve got a base now The groundwork’s done Now the focus is on the veterans ”
Appointments available
The Western Bay Support Centre is at Chadwick House, 250 Chadwick Rd, Greerton. Support adviser appointments are available for current and former NZ Defence Force personnel, surviving spouses and partners, and family members seeking guidance on entitlements, applications and welfare support.
For more information, phone 07 578 9654 or email: admin@tgarsa.co.nz
Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Overgrown trees and falling branches can damage power lines, cause outages, and make it harder for us to restore power They can also pose a significant fire risk That’s why it’s important to plant trees and shrubs well away from power lines and to regularly maintain any vegetation on your property
At Powerco, we keep an eye on trees growing near our power lines If your tree is within the growth limit zone, we’ll issue you a ‘cut or trim’ notice advising that work is required to keep it clear of the lines Working near power lines is extremely dangerous, and can result in serious injury or electrocution Tree trimming near power lines must be carried out by a Powerco-approved contractor
Once the work is complete, please let us know If the work is not completed by an approved contractor, or you do not notify us it has been completed, penalties may apply, including fines up to $10,000 and an additional $500 for every day the work remains outstanding
Help us keep the power on - plant smart, trim responsibly, and always stay safe around power lines
David Watt playing The Last Post on trumpet at the pening ceremony of the Western Bay Support Centre in Greerton. Photo / Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Future of Māori ward to be decided by binding referendum
Tauranga City Council has agreed to hold a binding referendum letting voters decide whether its Te Awanui Māori ward stays or goes.
The process is being complicated, however, by fast-accelerating local government reforms.
Tauranga is in a unique situation nationally
Most councils with Māori wards held binding referendums to decide the wards’ futures at last year ’ s local government elections. Results were almost evenly split, nationally
The polls were required by 2024 legislation introduced by the coalition Government, undoing a 2021 law change by the previous Government.
Tauranga had its local election early, in 2024, as part of its transition from commissioners back to an elected council, so it was exempt.
The legislation gave the council until the end of November this year to choose whether to disestablish the Māori ward for the 2028 election, or hold a binding poll by March 28 next year on whether to retain the ward.
A poll, and campaign
In a meeting on Tuesday, the council voted almost unanimously to hold a poll by the required date.
It also agreed to run a campaign to increase civic consciousness and understanding about the ward and encourage participation, provided the poll would be “meaningful”.
Councillors also noted, however, that their preference was for the Government
to change the requirement for a poll if the council is approved for the “head start ” local government reform pathway
Councils around the country have been given the option of proposing amalgamation plans within a 90-day deadline The Government would choose which proposals to proceed with.
In a May 19 letter to the ministers leading the reform, Tauranga Mayor Mahe Drysdale asked to defer Tauranga’s Māori ward decision.
He said a standalone poll would cost an estimated $600,000, and representation matters would likely be considered as part of the wider local government reforms “This approach would help avoid unnecessary cost and effort on a process that may become redundant under a revised local government structure. ”
Not engaged
Resident Jan Gyenge objected to the letter in Tuesday’s council meeting, saying the legislation was clear and the council had not engaged with the community on the suggested change.
Drysdale said a poll done during a head start process “would mean nothing”.
Welcome Bay councillor Hautapu Baker asked what would happen if Tauranga voted to keep its Māori ward, then merged with a district that did the opposite.
This could arise in a merger with Tauranga’s only direct neighbour, the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, which will remove its new Waka Kai Uru Māori ward from 2028.
Tauranga council head of strategy, governance and climate resilience, Jeremy Boase, said he did not have an answer but
Tauranga Mayor Mahe Drysdale and Hemi Rolleston at the Te Awanui ward councillor’s swearing-in ceremony in
the Department of Internal Affairs was aware of the issue.
Gave a voice
Matire Duncan – chairwoman of Te Rangapū Mana Whenua o Tauranga Moana Partnership, a group representing local hapū and iwi – addressed councillors in support of retaining the Māori ward. She said it improved representation, gave Māori a voice, and supported Te Tiriti o Waitangi. The entire community benefited from having a fairer and more representative council.
Deciding to disestablish the ward could “damage” the council’s relationships with mana whenua.
Duncan asked the council to
demonstrate leadership by supporting the ward and allowing the community to have the final say
She said Te Rangapū recommended the education campaign, co-designed with tangata whenua, to explain the ward, correct misinformation and encourage participation in the civic process
Baker said in his view the coalition Government was doing everything it could to “cripple” the voice of mana whenua. “I welcome the challenge of a poll because I’m confident …Tauranga will vote on the right side of history."
Te Awanui ward councillor Hēmi Rolleston abstained from the council’s voting, but spoke in support of the ward. He said a decision to support retaining
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Matire Duncan, chairwoman of Te Rangapū Mana Whenua
o Tauranga Moana Partnership, in 2024
Photos / Alisha Evans
it was “important and courageous ” , and ould put “ a strong pou in the ground” to signal the council’s position
Most don’t vote
He said Māori made up about 19% of ’ l ti “ d t f
Taurangas population, and most of us don’t vote”.
Māori voter turnout was 30% in Tauranga’s 2024 election, compared to 40% for non-Māori, according to the election turnout report.
Rolleston said engagement in the 2025 Te Awanui ward byelection, where he was elected, was low
Tauriko councillor Marten Rozeboom said he supported disestablishing the ward. He was the sole vote against holding a poll.
He said having a Māori ward had “always been optional”, including when the previous council voted to establish it in 2020.
He said the government of the day removed the right for Tauranga voters to have a say on having the ward, and he was concerned the city might again lose the right to choose
Pāpāmoa councillor Steve Morris said h lid i i f f d
there was a valid petition for a referendum on the ward decision in 2021, but the commission decided not to hold a poll after the law change.
“We owe our people a referendum, so let’s have a referendum,” Morris said.
Drysdale said it was strange a poll could decide only one type of ward, when wider representation arrangements were usually ultimately decided by the Local Government Commission – not a community vote.
The council is due to review its representation next year
A council report said it was not clear how ongoing local government reforms would impact this. Samantha Motion
New aerial footage has captured the growing scale of the Takitimu North Link Stage 1 project, as work nears the end of another construction season.
The flyover offers a bird’s-eye view of the four-lane highway taking shape between Tauranga and Te Puna, showcasing the progress made on the Road of National Significance.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi manager infrastructure delivery for Waikato and Bay of Plenty, Adrian Jones, said the project’s joint venture contractors, Fulton Hogan and HEB, are now into their fifth year on-site.
“They have reached many important milestones and are closing in on completion of the enormous three million cubic metre earthworks programme – enough material to fill Mercury Baypark Stadium 15 times,” Jones said.
Despite wetter-than-usual conditions through peak construction months, crews had continued to make steady progress, Jones said.
“While embankments require ongoing repairs and maintenance until vegetation is fully established, planting is being carried out as soon as conditions allow “Stock from local nurseries is being used
to stabilise the ground, reduce erosion and support long-term resilience,” he said
A key focus was structural work, with 10 bridges due for completion this year
Now the project is transitioning into pavement construction – a phase where the new highway becomes more visible
Initial pavement work had started in Te Mete Valley and near Te Puna.
Environmental work was also underway, including wetlands, fish passages, drainage systems, and planting of native plants.
Jones said activity was expected to continue through winter A ‘ super weekend’ of construction is planned for June 5-8 to advance road widening at the SH29/ Takitimu Drive Toll Rd off-ramp onto SH2/15th Ave towards Tauranga CBD.
“Work in this area, including an additional lane and gantry foundations, has been ongoing since February” Once widening work is complete, crews will move to the new single-lane bridge connection from 15th Ave, where sites are active with pavements, bridge panels, gantries and associated works To see the drone footage or find out more about the project, visit: www.nzta.govt nz/projects/ sh2-waihi-to-tauranga-corridor/takitimunorth-link
The woman conquering great walks
Six months ago, Kathy watched her walking group head off without her Today, the 67-year-old retiree leads the pack.
“I thought my serious tramping days were over, ” she admits. “My knees were really complaining if I did anything with elevation or distance. They left me on the sidelines while my friends went walking. It was really tough.”
Like many active retirees, Kathy had spent decades exploring New Zealand’s beauty. Weekend trips to local DOC tracks, summer holidays tramping around the South Island - it was who she was. The idea of giving it all up felt like losing part of herself
For months, she tried everything she could think of Rest days, stretching routines, different walking shoes. “I was determined not to give up, ” she says. “But nothing was really making a difference.”
Then, reading the local paper one morning, an article caught her eye.
“I saw this piece about Koru FX,” she recalls. “A number of well known Kiwis said it helped them stay active. Then I saw it in the pharmacy and thought why not ” What impressed Kathy was the natural approach. “I’d tried other gels before but I wasn ’ t keen on them long-term,” she explains. “This one was different being all natural and made in New Zealand.”
She started applying Koru FX morning and night.
“The cream has this lovely peppermint scent, absorbs quickly and you feel it working near instantly There’s an initial
warmth, then it’s followed by a cooler soothing sensation that seem ’ s to last a really long time. Within a couple of weeks, I noticed I was moving more confidently Not miraculous, but I found it impressive ”
The cream ’ s blend of 16 natural compounds is the only joint cream with this triple-action formula.
Warming oils like black pepper and nutmeg help the ingredients penetrate, while peppermint and eucalyptus then provide cooling relief Mānuka, calendula and other botanicals offer long-lasting support throughout the day
“What I like is that it’s not just sitting on the surface,” Kathy says. “You feel it absorb like a moisturiser, so it’s not sticking to my
clothes. I just keep doing what I love and forget about my joints.”
Now, she’s back on the trails with her group She’s also exploring easier bush walks with grandchildren
“Teaching them about native birds, showing them my favourite spots - I thought I’d lost that,” she reflects. “I’m not running marathons, but I’m out there creating memories. That’s what matters. ”
She’s introduced several friends to Koru FX
“We’ve got no intention of spending retirement on the couch,” she grins. “In fact, I’ve got a bit of cabin fever just sitting here chatting. Time to get moving!”
A screenshot of some of the drone footage. Photo / Screenshot: NZTA
Rohe
Regional
Council reduces general rates increase from 8.4% to
Key decisions for the Regional Council’s Annual Plan 2026/27 have been confirmed following deliberations on Monday 25 May, including a reduction in the general rates increase from a forecast 8 4% to 2 9% The outcome balances affordability with continued delivery of essential regional services
The deliberations mark a significant milestone in the Annual Plan process, incorporating community feedback gathered earlier this year, and setting the Regional Council’s work programme and budget for the year ahead
2.9%
Chair McDonald says the Regional Council’s approach has been about putting the region in the best possible position, both now and into the future
“We’ve taken a long-term, region-first view, making sure we’re not only responding to current pressures, but also planning ahead for what our communities will need in the years to come”
The Annual Plan will be formally adopted on 25 June 2026 and will take effect from 1 July 2026
For a summary of key decisions and more info scan the QR code or, visit boprc.govt.nz/annual-plan
Tauranga
bus stop sign trial
We’ve launched a new bus stop signage trial across 33 bus stops in Tauranga as part of ongoing improvements to the Baybus network
The new signs are replacing older Transit bus stop signs and are designed to make it easier for passengers to access real-time bus information while they’re on the go
Simply scan the QR code on the sign to see when your next bus is arriving and how far away it is
If you catch the bus from a stop with a new sign, why not give it a try? We’d love to hear what you think
Could you or someone in your household use support getting from A to B?
The Baybus Accessibility Concession provides free bus travel across the Bay of Plenty for people who are permanently unable to drive
Those assessed as unable to travel independently may be eligible for free travel for a companion through the Accessibility +1 Concession
See the criteria and how to apply at baybus co nz/accessibility-concession
Cultures come together in Te Puke celebration
Music, dance, food and storytelling from around the world will take centre stage at the Te Puke Festival of Cultures tomorrow
The free festival on June 6 from 12pm8pm will celebrate the many cultures that make up Te Puke, with performances, workshops and international cuisine spread across three community venues and a number of local eateries.
Organised by the Te Puke Festival of Cultures organising committee, consisting of Colab, Epic Te Puke, key community members and the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, the festival aims to bring people together through shared cultural experiences while recognising the town ’ s tangata whenua heritage
Māori welcome
The event begins midday at the Experience Te Puke Kiwifruit Capital of the World Complex with a welcome from Māori cultural heritage specialist Dean Flavell, followed by a kapa haka performance.
Festival-goers can also learn about local history through Harakeke Stories, a short film highlighting Te Puke’s heritage, and take part in harakeke weaving workshops led by Phillipa Kahotea.
The festival then expands across the town, with the Te Puke War Memorial Hall hosting an afternoon and evening of cultural performances showcasing traditions from around the world.
Cultures galore
School groups from Fairhaven School, Te Puke Intermediate and Te Puke High
School will perform Indian bhangra, giddha and Bollywoodinspired routines, while other groups will represent cultures including Pasifika, Vanuatu, Indonesia, the Cook Islands, Cambodia, Chile, Rapanui (Easter Island), Latin South America and Te Moananui a Toi.
Fairhaven School teacher and dance co-ordinator Neena Chauhan said she was proud of the growth of the school’s cultural dance groups during the last 20 years, and the diversity of students involved.
“We started in 2007 or 2008 with just seven or eight students
Now we have more than 100 students across junior, middle and senior groups, including boys’ bhangra and girls’ Bollywood,” she said.
For the festival, Chauhan said the Fairhaven School group alone included nearly 40 students performing Bollywood bhangra, involving students from a wide range of cultural backgrounds
“For me, being part of the festival is a huge honour It’s about celebrating cultural diversity in Te Puke and learning from each other If we don’t respect and understand each other’s cultures, we can ’ t move forward as a multicultural society”
Workshops, activities
Alongside the stage performances, a range of free interactive workshops and activities will run throughout the afternoon and evening. These include Indian cultural workshops featuring
henna, traditional costumes and crafts, a
Creative Kai Arts workshop presented by The Incubator, a dance workshop with the Inclusion Dance Crew, Indonesian musical instrument demonstrations and face painting
“It’s not just bhangra or kapa hakathe festival is a vibrant mix of cultures,” Chauhan said. “I’m also really proud we ’ re including the Inclusion Dance Group, involving children with additional needs Everyone is welcome, and when they perform, they absolutely shine ”
A free photobooth will also operate from 2pm-7pm.
Families can start their festival experience even earlier at Te Puke Library and Service Centre, where multilingual storytelling, crafts, a colouring
competition and a scavenger hunt will be held from 10am until midday
Cultures via cuisines
Food will be another major attraction, with a Festival Food Trail encouraging visitors to explore local eateries and sample signature dishes from around the world.
Visitors can head to Eat Street for international food truck fare or enjoy special festival offerings including Biscoff cinnamon scrolls from Dolce Bakery & Café, fish and chicken pakora from Love Punjab, smoked fish savouries with kūmara mash from Blackbird Records, bread pakora and samosas from Punjab Express, and seafood kebabs from Oceans Fresh Fish. Rosalie Liddle Crawford
The dance group from Fairhaven School will perform at the Te Puke Festival of Cultures tomorrow. Photo / Kelly O’Hara
Students turn plastic waste into fish sculpture
More than 75 students from Waihī Beach School have created fish sculptures from discarded waste as part of a hands-on environmental art project highlighting plastic pollution in the Pacific Ocean.
The tamariki worked alongside internationally respected Pacific cultural and creative leader Stan Wolfgramm in a workshop delivered as part of the Forgotten Promises Project - Ocean Conservation Art Installations, an initiative led by Sustainable Waihī Beach
The students used discarded plastic bottles, recycled materials and recovered waste – including small plastic pellets that continue to wash ashore at Waihī Beach following the MV Rena grounding
The ongoing presence of these materials remains a visible reminder of the longterm environmental impacts on coastal ecosystems, Sustainable Waihī Beach founder Pippa Coombes said
“The individual fish sculptures will be brought together to form a large-scale hanging mobile installation designed to raise awareness of marine plastic pollution and encourage community discussion about ocean protection ”
Coombes said the hope is the completed work will be displayed in regional libraries and community spaces as an educational tool focused on sustainability, marine conservation and guardianship of Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa, the Pacific Ocean Wolfgramm is visiting Waihī Beach as part of a wider Pacific partnership involving Sustainable Waihī Beach, local hapū kaitiaki Te Whanau a Tauwhao, and
collaborators working on environmental education and ocean guardianship initiatives across Aotearoa and the Cook Islands
During his visit, Wolfgramm also spoke about the development of Moana Pasifika, an interactive digital platform designed to combine Indigenous knowledge systems with environmental learning and conservation action
“The app is currently in final-stage development, and is designed as an interactive ‘Ocean Guardian’ experience where users create and restore their own virtual ocean sanctuary, ” Wolfgramm said
He said the platform which combines education, conservation and indigenous knowledge systems, encourages users to reconnect with the ocean through restoration-based gameplay and
environmental action
“Users can populate and nurture their own marine environments with species and ecological icons relevant to their local region, from coral reefs and tropical marine life through to local taonga species such as
the kororā/little blue penguin found along the Waihī Beach coastline,” Wolfgramm said “A small contribution attached to each icon is fed back to the organisations doing the real conservation mahi, helping sustain this vital work at a time when funding is increasingly hard to secure ”
The kaupapa behind the platform is based on the belief that people protect what they feel connected to Through storytelling, conservation challenges, and collaboration with Indigenous and environmental organisations, the project aims to inspire future ocean guardians across the Pacific
The platform is in final-stage development and being trialled by environmental student leaders at Waihī Beach School to
understand how rangatahi engage with digital tools for environmental learning
Waihī Beach School principal Rachael Coll said the visit had provided a meaningful practical opportunity to connect culture, creativity and environmental action “This kaupapa is about reconnecting people to the ocean through creativity, storytelling and action,” Coll said
“The Pacific Ocean connects all of us, and projects like this allow our communities to become part of something much bigger than themselves while understanding the real impacts of plastic pollution on our marine environments ”
Waihī Beach School Year 5 and 6 Taiao Environment and ICT Champions with Reon Tuanau from Te Whanau a Tauwhao Hapū, Waihī Beach School principal Rachael Coll, Te Ara - The Cook Islands Museum of Cultural Enterprise cofounder Stan Wolfgramm, and Sustainable Waihī Beach coordinator Pippa Coombes. Photos / Kelly O’Hara
Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Waihī Beach School pupils Jett Drummond, 7, Benny Coburn,10, and Josh Pratt, 10, creating their fish sculptures.
Paintballs to fly in serious battle at TECT Park
Bright-coloured projectiles will be furiously flying in TECT Park this Sunday as a speed-focused paintball contest draws entrants from across the North Island
After a several-year hiatus, the Bay of Plenty Paintball Club will host the regional Paintball Triples – which is known as a strictly-serious splat-filled contest
Club president Phil Stokes said the tournament will showcase a side of paintball that many people have never seen
“When most people think of paintball, they think of birthday parties or recreational games played in the bush,”
Stokes said “What we play is called speedball, which is a much faster-paced competitive format ”
The competition will attract teams from Auckland, Waikato, Hawke’s Bay, Manawatū and throughout the Bay of Plenty on June 7, he said
It will feature three-player teams competing on an inflatable speedball field Players start at opposite ends with inflatable bunkers and must either eliminate the opposing team or capture a flag from the centre and return it to the opposition’s base
“It’s quick, exciting and very strategic,”
Stokes said “A lot can happen in a short amount of time ”
Stokes said the club was established
more than a decade ago with the goal of growing paintball in the region and creating a permanent, safe facility for players
Before securing a home base, members relied on borrowed land and temporary playing areas That changed when the club partnered with TECT Park and volunteers had spent more than a decade developing the site
“When we first arrived, it was rugged bush and a valley,” Stokes said “Over the years we ’ ve carried out earthworks, installed safety netting and built both recreational and speedball playing areas It's completely different now ”
“There’s really no need for separate divisions,” he said “When you ’ re shooting paintballs at each other, gender doesn’t make any difference
“It’s one of the few sports where everyone can compete on the same footing ”
Stokes said the club was excited to see an all-female team entered in Bay of Plenty Paintball Triples
“They’re coming to have a real crack at it, which is fantastic ”
Stokes said the club welcomes players aged 13-plus and caters for all experience levels
It also hosts open days, where newcomers can try the sport without needing to organise a large group
Stokes said the club attracted members from the Bay of Plenty and Waikato, with players regularly attending from Tauranga, Rotorua, Hamilton and Auckland to train and compete About 25 members are registered, plus casual players
Stokes said one of paintball’s unique strengths is that men and women compete together on equal terms
“You can just turn up by yourself and give it a go, ” Stokes said “It’s a great way to meet people and experience the sport ”
Spectators are welcome to watch the Bay of Plenty Paintball Triples at TECT Park on June 7 Entry is free
Liddle Crawford
Rosalie
Phil Stokes in action playing paintball. Photo / Kelly O’Hara
Reserve upgrade takes shape in Tauranga CBD
A neglected little reserve with history tracing back to the earliest settlement of Tauranga by Māori and Europeans is receiving a long overdue upgrade.
Work is under way to transform Aspen Reserve in central Tauranga into a greener, more welcoming inner-city space.
“The Aspen Reserve upgrade has been long in the planning, with a ‘value for money ’ upgrade being approved by council,” Tauranga City Councillor Rod Taylor said.
“This upgrade will repurpose the park into a quiet space at the northern end of the city where the community can take time out from their busy lives.”
The small reserve on the corner of Willow and McLean streets has long been known for its historical significance –now Tauranga City Council is progressing plans to upgrade the park with new seating, landscaping and community features.
Sanctuary space
The latest works follow the recent installation of a large mural by artist Graham Hoete depicting an 1880s Tauranga street-building scene based on a historic photograph of Willow St. Council design team leader Ana Hancock said the reserve upgrade is intended to create a sanctuary-style space in the growing city centre.
“Over the next few weeks, we ’ re going to start work on upgrades with bench seating, a chess table and other features while cutting back vegetation to make the space brighter and more welcoming,”
Hancock said.
“The aim is to upgrade the reserve into a sanctuary space to serve the growing numbers of people we can expect as nearby developments are completed.”
Upgrade works began May 11, with a karakia held before construction started. Council first approved the concept design for Aspen Reserve in 2017.
The plans include casual seating, shade, landscaping and space for small community events while retaining key historical elements such as the stone wall along Willow St.
Unique place in history
Hancock said the site holds a unique place in Tauranga’s history “Historically, Aspen Reserve was a garden and horsehitching area for people visiting the nearby post office,” she said.
“Prior to this it was used for growing food – during pre-European times and in the mid-1800s during the colonial era ”
She said Aspen Reserve is one of the few places in Tauranga’s city centre where
no building has ever stood although there is a historic stone walll on thhe W Willow S St edge.
The reserve was once home to Tauranga’s famous ‘Aspen Tree’ dating back to the era of the Battle of Gate Pā (Pukehinahina) and later identified as cottonwood. It was a local landmark for more than a century before being removed in 2011 because of safety concerns from severe decay and storm damage
Historic photographs dating back to the 1870s show the tree standing near early government buildings and the old post office precinct.
Great outcome
The reserve has remained an open grassy space since the tree ’ s removal. The council periodically revisited plans to upgrade
the area as part of wider city centre revitalisation projects
“As thhe l large constructiion projjects are completed, having this open green space available will be a great outcome for the extra people we have in the city,” Taylor said
“The upgrade work being done is complemented by the fantastic mural recently completed by Graham, which depicts an historic scene from the city” The mural is based on an archival image, depicting a horse and cart alongside workers constructing Willow St, and acknowledges the contribution of mana whenua to Tauranga’s development.
“His [Hoete’s] mural really helps you imagine what it was like all those years ago as Willow St first started taking shape – long before it became the sealed street with footpaths we know today,” Hancock said Rosalie Liddle Crawford
The aspen tree circa 1924, looking down McLean St to the harbourfront, with the old Post Office to the right of the picture. Tauranga City Libraries Photo: 01-392
Tauranga city councillor Rod Taylor at Aspen Reserve as the upgrade gets underway. Photo / Kelly O’Hara
Open Day
Tuesday 16 June, 10am–2pm 10 Welcome Bay Road, Tauranga
Where nature’s calm meets Tauranga’s charm. Enjoy country club retirement, just a short drive from town. Explore spacious villas and apartments available now. Tour the village, meet our team, and experience daily life here. To find out more call Jamie on 07 544 7711.
AI summit to support student scholarships
Business leaders, innovators and curious professionals are invited to explore the rapidly changing world of artificial intelligence, which will also support scholarships at Mount Maunganui College.
The 2026 Tauranga AI Business Summit Scholarship Fundraiser will be held on Friday, June 12, from 1.15pm to 6pm at University of Waikato Tauranga Campus.
In its second year, the summit combines keynote presentations, practical workshops and networking opportunities, with proceeds going toward scholarships for Mount Maunganui College students.
“This is the second year we have done this,” co-organiser and Mount Maunganui College teacher James Critchley said.
“The Tauranga AI Business Summit Scholarship Fundraiser returns for 2026, supported by an incredible array of businesses.”
Critchley said the event is designed for business owners, professionals, educators and anyone interested in understanding how artificial intelligence is reshaping industries and communities
Keynote speakers
The summit will feature two high-profile keynote speakers, including Dr Amanda Williamson, Director of the Deloitte New Zealand AI Institute and senior lecturer in Innovation and Strategy at the University of Waikato
Williamson has advised corporate boards on AI governance and investment, led enterprise AI deployment to more than
2000 staff, and developed AI solutions delivering up to 76% productivity gains across multiple sectors
“Her foundation is technical: a PhD using AI-driven analytics and certifications across five major AI platforms,” event co-organiser and Mount Maunganui College teacher Richard Cameron said.
“Amanda is a TEDx speaker, a regular commentator on AI in New Zealand media and concurrently holds a senior lecturer position in Innovation and Strategy at the University of Waikato
“Attendees will explore how artificial intelligence is shaping industries, communities and the future of innovation, while gaining a clearer understanding of its opportunities and challenges.”
Also speaking is Glen Willoughby, a global technology and innovation executive with more than 25 years ’ experience across health, infrastructure, and space exploration sectors
In the US, Willoughby has held senior leadership roles, including serving as CIO of Singularity Group in Silicon Valley, and has worked alongside NASA since 2018. He has received a range of awards for his work in global innovation and AI and has been published by Forbes
The future as IA
At the summit he will discuss NASA’s technological journey and also examine how artificial intelligence has evolved during the past decade and where it is heading.
“Rather than presenting AI as a replacement for people, Glen will frame
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the future as IA – Intelligent Assistance,” Critchley said.
“Technology that helps humans interpret complex data, make better decisions, work more safely and achieve goals beyond normal human limits –solving the ‘previously unsolvable’
“The session will touch on what this means for organisations, communities and industries, while taking a balanced view of opportunity, risk, trust and responsible adoption ”
The afternoon will include practical workshops led by industry professionals from organisations including Zespri, Parallo, The AI Assembly, LawVu and Datacom, a panel discussion and an audience Q&A session. Support from
Rush Digital, Barfoot & Thompson and Priority One have enabled this event to occur without costs, ensuring 100% of ticket sales go towards the scholarships
Tickets
Cameron said the event offers valuable professional development and an opportunity to support local students. “We raised over $10,000 in 2025 and have already helped fund two students to attend overseas trips and supported a bursary for a student attending the University of Waikato Tauranga Campus.” Networking drinks and canapés are included in the ticket price. Tickets are for sale at Humanitix Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Dr Amanda Williamson Photo / Supplied
Council offers free reflective backpack covers
Do you run or cycle before sunrise or after dark? Are you travelling to work or school by e-bike, skateboard, bicycle or scooter?
Tauranga City Council is encouraging the community to stay visible on the roads this winter by offering free reflective backpack covers from June 8, while stocks last The initiative, led by the Travel Safe team, is part of the annual Be Bright, Be Safe, Be Seen campaign, which reminds cyclists, walkers, runners and scooter riders to take extra care during darker mornings and evenings.
People who are out before sunrise, after dark, or even on dull light days, are urged to use lights, wear bright or reflective
clothing, and take simple steps to increase visibility in low-light conditions.
“These covers are a simple way to increase visibility on darker winter mornings and afternoons, especially for commuters travelling to and from work and school,” Travel Safe team leader Sonia Lynds said.
She said small changes can make a big difference in preventing crashes and improving road safety
As well as using reflective gear, road users are encouraged to stay alert around traffic and ensure bikes and scooters are fitted with working lights.
The Be Bright, Be Safe, Be Seen campaign is aimed at helping ensure everyone can travel safely and be seen on Tauranga’s
roads throughout the winter months
“As the days get shorter and darker, it’s more important than ever to stay visible on our roads,” Lynds said
The free reflective backpack covers will be available from Tauranga City Council libraries for a two-week period starting
Workshops
Maketū and Te Puke residents can attend workshops next week to speak with councillors on whether their council should merge with others.
Evolving Boldly
The Maketū workshop on June 9 from 6pm-8pm at Whakaue Marae; and in Te Puke on June 10 from 6pm-8pm at The Orchard Church finish six events held by Western Bay of Plenty District Council.
On May 5, the Government announced that councils had a three-month window to work with others in their region and put forward proposals for how they want to reorganise their local government arrangements.
In response, the council released a discussion document that set out five scenarios of what that could look like for the Western Bay – and is encouraging residents to share their views.
The Government’s new ‘Head Start’ pathway for local government reform, councils which choose to submit an outline proposal must do so by August 9. Western Bay Mayor James Denyer said there is no preferred option for his council at this stage.
“What matters most is understanding what our communities value,” he said.
The council has five scenarios:
• Regional unitary authority – all councils in the Bay of Plenty region (Western Bay, Tauranga City, Rotorua, Kawerau, Whakatāne, Ōpōtiki) reorganise to become one unitary authority that carries out all the functions of both local and regional councils.
To view the New Zealand code for cycling, go to: www.nzta.govt.nz/ roadcode/code-for-cycling
Liddle Crawford
• Sub-regional unitary authority – Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Tauranga City Council reorganise to become one unitary authority that carries out all the functions, within the existing Western Bay and Tauranga City boundaries
• Provincial unitary authority – Western Bay and other district councils in the existing Bay of Plenty region (Rotorua, Whakatāne, Kawerau, Ōpōtiki, but excluding Tauranga City) reorganise to become one unitary authority
• District split – the Western Bay is split, with different parts of the district joining different councils For example, Western Bay could be split into East and West areas based on current known geographic boundaries, and each of these areas could join with their neighbouring councils.
• Western Bay unitary authority – the council doesn’t join with any others but takes on the functions of the Bay of Plenty Regional Council that can best be delivered locally A region-wide Council Controlled Organisation (CCO), jointly owned by other councils in the Bay of Plenty, is formed to take on those functions that are better delivered regionally Some functions could be delivered at a national level
To register to attend workshops, visit: https://yourplace.westernbay.govt nz/embeds/ projects/107180/survey-tools/124469
The community can also share their views until midnight June 14 via survey at: https://yourplace.westernbay.govt nz/localgovernment-reform
Travel Safe team leader Sonia Lynds with a reflective backpack cover
Photo / Kelly O’Hara
Rosalie
Young opera talent to perform in Tauranga concert
Emerging opera singers and a rising national talent will take centre stage at a Tauranga Opera Forum Trust concert next month.
The concert will be held 3pm on Sunday, June 14, at St Peter's in the City and feature a programme of operatic favourites performed by scholarship singers and guest soprano Niamh Bentley. The event will be compered by George Bryant.
Three scholarship singers – sopranos Alafair Korohina-Wall and Sienna Olsen and tenor Jacob West – will perform during the first half of the programme. Korohina-Wall is sponsored by Crown Range Winery, Olsen is sponsored by Tauranga Opera Forum Trust and West is sponsored by Wright Family Foundation.
organ J dg said the concert reflects the trust ’ s ongoing commitment to supporting young singers and promoting opera in Tauranga
“Tauranga Opera Forum is enthusiastic to support the enjoyment of opera in Tauranga with screened operas, concerts and scholarships for young singers,” Hodgson said.
“Inquire how you can support us by sponsoring a song at our next concert. ”
The concert programme will include a range of classical and contemporary works.
Jacob West, who is rehearsing for the Tauranga Musical Theatre production of Wicked, will perform La Donna e Mobile from Rigoletto, The Choirmaster’s Burial by Benjamin Britten and One Last Prayer by Jake Banfield
ienna Olsen will sing Barbarinas aria from The Marriage of Figaro, If Music Be the Food of Love by Henry Purcell and Domine Deus by Antonio Vivaldi.
Alafair Korohina-Wall will perform Per la gloria d’adorarvi from Griselda, Love Walked In from The Goldwyn Follies and Con amores, la mi madre by Juan Anchieta.
Following intermission, guest soloist Niamh Bentley will perform. Bentley, a 25-year-old soprano from Hawke’s Bay, is studying at The Aotearoa New Zealand Opera Studio
“Her journey into opera and classical singing began in 2016 when she joined the opera youth initiative Project Prima Volta, which sparked her passion for the art form,” Hodgson said.
The Tauranga Opera Forum Trust began
in 2013 with opera screenings held at the Tauranga Club and expanded into scholarships, concerts and fundraising initiatives supporting young performers. The organisation has helped several young singers pursue further musical study and performance opportunities. Hodgson said the trust hoped to continue growing opera appreciation in Tauranga despite recent challenges securing screening licences for its regular opera screenings
“We are looking to continue our support for opera in Tauranga especially with our scholarship concerts and will soon launch our ‘Sponsor a Song’ programme, ” he said
The ‘Operatic Favourites’ concert is at 3pm, June 14, at St Peter’s in the City, 130 Spring St. Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Niamh Bentley Photos / Supplied
Jacob West
Alafair Korohina-Wall
Sienna Olsen.
Win to adventure new indoor park
Tauranga families will be able to bounce, climb and slide their way through a new indoor adventure park when SlamJump opens at Mercury Baypark tomorrow, June 6.
Created by Tauranga entrepreneur Cameron Templer, SlamJump brings back a dedicated indoor trampoline and activity venue for local children and families. The facility features trampolines, a large playground, bouldering walls, giant inflatable slides and a dedicated toddler area
Templer said there had already been strong interest from families eager to experience the attraction.
SlamJump is aimed at children
aged 0-15, although parents are encouraged to join in the fun. The venue will cater for birthday parties and group bookings and will be open seven days a week, operating 9.30am-3pm on weekdays and 9.30am5pm weekends, public holidays and school holidays.
The Weekend Sun has a family pass for four to SlamJump to give away to one lucky reader who can tell us how many days per week will
SlamJump be open?
Help needed to restore Pukehina dunes
To enter visit www.sunlive.co.nz and click on the ‘competitions’ tab Entries must be in by Tuesday, June 9.
Squirrel away Firewood NOW for winter!
2m3 load of Lions firewood delivered only
Residents are being encouraged to roll up their sleeves and help restore native dune habitat at a community planting day at Dotterel Point Reserve, Pukehina, on Sunday, June 7.
The event is being organised by Coast Care Bay of Plenty and the Maketū Ōngātoro Wetland Society (MOWS), with volunteers gathering from 10am-12pm at the Dotterel Point carpark at the end of Pukehina Parade
The family-friendly working bee aims to help restore native dunes and protect habitat for local wildlife, including the endangered New Zealand dotterel.
Organisers said digging in the sand is quite easy, and dune
restoration can be enjoyable and rewarding
“You'll be doing your bit for our native plants and animals and working with likeminded locals who care about the environment,” Maketū Ōngātoro Wetland Society wrote on the organisation’s Facebook page
Volunteers are encouraged to bring gardening gloves, a spade if they have one, and wear sturdy covered footwear
A sunhat, water bottle and raincoat are also recommended
Planting equipment will be provided, and participants can enjoy a barbecue lunch and refreshments after the event
The community planting day is open to all ages and is a chance for locals and visitors alike to contribute to the ongoing restoration of Pukehina’s coastal environment
Rosalie Liddle Crawford
The community planting day at Dotterel Point Reserve in Pukehina will run 10am -12pm on June 7. Photo / Supplied
Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Owner Cameron Templer at SlamJump, which will open June 6. Photo / Supplied
Volunteers celebrated as the heart of the Western Bay
From sports clubs and surf lifesaving patrols to food banks, environmental groups, community events and emergency response teams, volunteers are the quiet force helping communities across the Western Bay of Plenty thrive.
As National Volunteer Week approaches from June 14-20, Volunteering Services is encouraging people to recognise the thousands of locals who generously give their time, skills and energy to support others
This year ’ s celebrations also coincide with International Volunteer Year 2026 – a global campaign recognising the role volunteers play in building stronger, more connected communities.
Shine a light
“National Volunteer Week is our chance to celebrate the people who quietly keep our communities strong So many volunteers are happy to work away behind the scenes, not looking for recognition or reward - but this is their moment, ” Volunteering Services manager Angela Wallace said
“It’s time to shine a light on the incredible mahi happening right here in our community “Because of our volunteers, our region doesn’t just function, it thrives, with a strong, beating heart at its centre ” Volunteering remains one of New Zealand’s largest forms of civic participation.
According to Volunteering New Zealand, more than half of New Zealanders volunteer in some form each year, contributing millions of hours of unpaid work that supports charities, schools, sports organisations, community groups and essential services.
Across the Bay of Plenty, volunteers support everything from youth mentoring and animal rescue to conservation projects, arts organisations and aged care programmes Volunteering
Services supports more than 150 member organisations across the BOP and said there are opportunities available for people of all ages, backgrounds and interests
All types
Whether someone can offer a few hours a month or several days a week, there are flexible volunteer roles to suit different lifestyles and skillsets.
Wallace said volunteering also benefits those who take part.
“People often begin volunteering because they want to help others, but they quickly discover how much they gain themselves. It builds friendships, confidence, purpose and connection to the community”
Regional events recognising volunteers will be held across the Bay of Plenty during National Volunteer Week, celebrating the people whose efforts often
happen quietly behind the scenes Volunteering Services is also encouraging anyone interested in giving back to explore local opportunities through its website
Simplest way
“Volunteering is one of the simplest ways people can make a genuine difference in their community,” Wallace said
“There is no single type of volunteer Whatever your interests, experience or stage of life, there is a place where your contribution can matter ” To learn more about volunteer opportunities across the Bay of Plenty, visit the Volunteering Services website at: www.volunteeringservices.org.nz or call (07) 987 0920.
“Thank you to all our amazing volunteer tutors!”
Do you have 1-2 hours a week to help a former refugee or migrant learn English?
The Volunteering Services team, from left Alisha Martinez, Eva Werner, Angela Wallace, Nicki Turner, Luisa Knapp and Lalangi Deniya Photo / Supplied
Your time and spirit transforms lives
For 2026’s National Volunteer Week (Te Wiki Tūao ā-Motu) on June 14-20, The Salvation Army wants to extends a “heartfelt thank you ” to all its volunteers across New Zealand.
“Your compassion and commitment make an extraordinary difference in communities every day,” said Commissioner Janine Donaldson, the territorial commander of The Salvation Army New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory, which has roughly 3200 volunteers.
So ‘wat-er’ you waiting for?
Tauranga Volunteer Coastguard’s Louise Galley is taking on a 60km swimming challenge this month to raise funds for a cause she said is close to her heart as a rescue vessel crew member
Galley is participating in Coastguard’s nationwide Big Swim fundraiser, which encourages participants to set a distance goal, gain sponsors and raise money to support the organsation’s lifesaving work.
“I’m dusting off the goggles and squeezing back into the togs, ” she said. Her month-long challenge began with a 2km swim at a Bethlehem gym ’ s swimming pool.
“The journey to 60km starts with a single swim, and Day 1 is officially in
the books,” Galley said “I’m looking forward to building consistency, pushing through the tough days and celebrating every milestone along the way ”
She’s not swimming alone. Her father, Greg, is completing his own challenge in Gisborne, with the pair setting a combined goal of 110km.
Galley said she hopes the community will support the fundraiser and the volunteers it helps
“Tauranga Volunteer Coastguard is family to me, and as a coastguard rescue vessel crew member I see firsthand the dedication, training and commitment it takes to keep people safe on the water ”
The Coastguard Big Swim runs throughout June. To support the Galleys go to https://bigswim.org.nz and search for ‘Lou Galley’. Rosalie Liddle Crawford
“Whether you are supporting a faith community, partnering with us as a business, work in our Family Stores, standing with a collection bucket,
supporting community programmes through outreach, or simply being there for someone in need – you ’ re a blessing to us in our mission.”
Because of these volunteers, The Salvation Army reaches more than 120,000 families and individuals each year, offering not just food and clothing, but dignity, life skills, and hope for a better future, Donaldson said “Your generosity of time and spirit transforms lives in ways that cannot be measured,” she said
“As a volunteer we honour and celebrate you Thank you for your committed service and kindness It takes an army and we ’ re so sincerely grateful to have you as part of it ” Find out more about The Salvation Army at: salvationarmy org nz
Emily is one of The Salvation Army New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory’s 3200 volunteers. Photo / Supplied
Louise Galley after completing a swim at Aspire pool in Bethlehem Photo / Supplied
What is your part to play?
Good Neighbour has more than 300 volunteers contributing weekly to its wide range of communitydriven projects that aim to transform neighborhoods and support individuals
“We’re a community organisation that exists to bring the people of our city together so we can provide solutions to those who need it,” general manager Renee Hanna said.
“What we want to share this volunteer week is the power of what happens when people all play their part – Good Neighbour believes that everybody has a part to play to make our city a better place for all ”
At Good Neighbour, volunteering takes many shapes, forms and skillsets There are numerous roles within its
food rescue and distribution, firewood collection and delivery, growing and harvesting community garden beds, youth mentoring, supporting people into employment, cooking community meals, backyard projects and free mobile shower and laundry facilities –plus administration, hosting and event tasks too
“We really do have volunteer roles for everybody,” Hanna said “Our volunteers help us make Tauranga a more connected, compassionate and resilient place to live.”
For volunteers, their mahi (work) offers social connection, friendship and the feeling of making a difference. “Each day we cook lunch for our volunteers It’s a beautiful community to be part of ” So what are you waiting for? What is your part to play?
Thanking the beating heart of the Acorn Foundation
The Acorn Foundation is proudly community-led, with volunteers playing an essential role in the way the organisation operates and supports the region.
As the Western Bay of community foundation Acorn’s role is to connec generosity with causes t are close to their hearts Acorn Foundation chi executive Lori Luke said supporting the work of the small team is a large and passionate network of volunteers who contribute their time, professional expertise and lived experience to help guide the foundation’s decisions and ensure local giving continues to make a difference for generations to come.
“Volunteers make up the beating heart of the Acorn Foundation, outnumbering staff by a 4 to 1 ratio,” Luke said.
f Plenty’s n, ct local that
every level of the Acorn Foundation, from overseeing investments and community funding to helping guide governance and strategic direction, under the leadership of chair Michelle Malcolm
Many bring decades of experience in fi business, law, governance, g to give those skills back to ommunity, Malcolm said ne volunteers make up oard and also sit on f three committees –butions, investment dvisory and audit, risk and policies – along with professionals from the community
She said volunteers are involved throughout
d e nance, choosin their c “Nin our bo one o distrib ad r
“Each of these volunteers shares their skills, their unique perspective, and their deep commitment to the Western Bay with our team to ensure that, collectively, we do our best to support the region,” she said
“Volunteers on the Scholarship Committee and our five new Local Impact Funds round out our Acorn whanau We appreciate them all so very much!”
Acorn Foundation chair Michelle Malcolm. Photo / Supplied
At Good Neighbour, volunteering comes in many shapes, forms and skillsets. Photo / Supplied
Kiwis are being encouraged get behind National Blood Donor Week from June 8-14 by giving back some of their red liquid gold.
According to the New Zealand Blood Service (NZBS), Aotearoa needs more than 5000 donations every week to ensure blood and plasma are available for those in need “However, the need for blood and plasma is constant, so we ’ re looking
for more lifesavers By putting aside a small part of your day you can make a life-changing difference, you can become a lifesaver too!”
Before donating blood or plasma, Kiwis need to check their eligibility Eligibility criteria protects the health of donors, and ensures patients who receive transfusion have access to blood and plasma that is safe to use. People can check basic eligibility criteria in the
NZBS’ online Eligibility Quiz but there is additional criteria that needs to be assessed in person on the day of a donation NZBS has made it easy to donate blood or plasma by offering an online booking service on their website. See: www.nzblood.co.nz
Kiwis urged to gift red gold this National Blood Donor Week
Once completed donors sign a declaration that to the best of their knowledge the h health information given is corrrect and they give consent to the testing for blood groups and eviidence of some infections in the bllood that they donate.
On arrival, people check-in at the reception desk Take a suitable form of ID – a NZBS Blood Donor ID card (physical or on the app), birth certificate (in English), driver’s license (in English), passport, school or university ID card, a HANZ 18+ card or a firearm’s licence. New donors need to verify their details by filling out a D Details F rm. Once will be asked mandatory and complete uestionnaire
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Each person then has a confidential interview w with a NZBS donor technician n They will check the individuall’s haemoglobin level using g a finger prick test Once the inteerview is completed successfullyy, the individual will be taken to a donation chair and seaated comfortably Book now at: www.nzbloood co.nz For those who plaan to contribute regularly, dowwnload the NZ Blood Donor appp from the Apple App Store or o on Google Play. Search ‘NZ Z Blood’ to find it.
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Diagnosis typically involves radiographic imaging, revealing cartilage degradation and possible bone alterations
For many, an orthopaedic referral follows, with surgical interventions discussed as potential pathways for relief
However, nutritional therapy is an effective complementary approach to conventional treatment. This focuses on professional supplement and anti-inflammatory dietary plans, both of which have demonstrated d the ability to improve joint function and mobility umerous case
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Curcumin This combination supports the maintenance of healthy cartilage and other joint tissue by supporting the joint processes that protect, maintain and renew cartilage
Why use Bettaflex?
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The primary aim of nutritional therapy is to optimise the activity of chondrocytes – the specialised cells responsible for maintaining healthy cartilage. A secondary focus is managing joint inflammation, a major contributor to pain and decreased mobility in OA patients
Bettaflex formulator John Arts comments,“I formulated Bettaflex with a single objective; that those concerned about joint health can support mobility and comfort helping them to enjoy better quality of life”
To illustrate, consider rating your osteoarthritis symptoms at a maximum discomfort level of 10/10. Imagine the impact on your daily life if this score were lowered to 7, 5, or even 2. One recent example involved a client with persistent knee pain, most acute during the night. After adopting targeted nutritional strategies, his night knee pain has gone, and daytime discomfort has substantially improved – from 10/10 down to about 2/10. hile swiitching to an anti-inflammatory diet may inncur additional monthly expenses –typically about $40 – the greatest challenge is not financial Instead, it’s overcoming our habits and natural resistance to change Nevertheless, for those committed to better joint health, the
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National Blood Donor Week is from June 8-14. Photo / Supplied Body Treatments in Judea, Tauranga, offer a range of beauty therapy and wellness treatments to the Tauranga area
“Critical” funding towards a major Tauranga Hospital redevelopment has been announced in Budget 2026 as part of a $680 million national health spend.
The amount for Tauranga Hospital was withheld due to commercial sensitivities; however, it will provide funding for design and enabling works to be completed in the 2026/2027 and 2027/2028 financial years.
The funding, confirmed May 28, is part of the Government’s Regional Hospital Development Programme The Government also confirmed funding for the fit-out of an inpatient unit at Tauranga Hospital
Immediate pressures
The Health Minister said it would “help relieve immediate pressures while the longer-term redevelopment work progresses”. Budget 2026 comes two weeks after the Western Bay of Plenty city and regional deal was signed in Mount Maunganui, which mentioned Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora’s plans to redevelop Tauranga Hospital in stages over 20 years.
Tauranga MP Sam Uffindell said Budget 2026 was delivering “the next step ” towards a modern Tauranga Hospital “This is about improving access to timely, highquality healthcare for a fast-growing community”
Uffindell told NZME that Budget 2026 provided the necessary investment to fund the “critical” early phases of the project, including detailed design, site planning, and enabling works.
These stages were necessary to confirm the final scope, staging, configuration, and cost of the redevelopment before construction funding decisions were made, he said. Uffindell said future construction funding would be considered through the normal Budget and business case processes “We will ensure projects are properly scoped and health infrastructure is delivered in a way that provides long-term certainty and meets the needs of our community”
Bay of Plenty MP Tom Rutherford said the investment would give people confidence in their local hospital “We’re focused on improving care sooner, so patients and their families start to see the benefits as early as possible ” Health NZ has been working on a business case about future locations for a potential new hospital due to seismic concerns at its existing Cameron Rd site In 2023,
Generosity is part of progress
“Help your companion’s boat across, and your own will reach the shore” –Hindu Proverb
These words reframe success. Life isn’t a race against others, it’s a journey with them.
Budget dishes up starter funds for h hospiital l reddevellopment t
Tauranga City Council commissioners decided the future use of the 85-hectare Tauranga Racecourse Reserve would include either a new hospital/health facility, or the existing racecourse.
The May 14 deal between Western Bay of Plenty councils and the Government pushed to release the hold on Tauranga Racecourse land, as the preferred option was to redevelop the existing site. This would also alleviate public concern about potentially losing the racecourse facility, the deal said. The deal said Health NZ indicated it needed to await Cabinet decisions before it could release the racecourse site from potential obligation.
Urban ambulatory hub
The deal also said Health NZ had outlined plans to establish a new urban ambulatory hub in Tauranga between 2025 and 2029, aiming to provide treatment closer to people’s homes and ease congestion at hospital sites. NZME asked Health NZ about the deal before Budget 2026 was announced.
Health NZ head of infrastructure delivery Simon Trotter said a programme business case for Tauranga Hospital had been developed and was progressing through Health NZ’s internal review and assessment processes He did not confirm when the business case was expected to be completed.
The council’s website said was anticipated in early to mid-2026
Trotter said decisions on next steps, including matters relating to the racecourse site will be confirmed once that process was completed
He said the redevelopment will be delivered in stages so improvements could begin while services remained operational. Staging would be based on clinical priorities, service demand and the condition of existing facilities
Early planning and enabling works were underway as part of the wider redevelopment programme, he said
When we lift, support and encourage others, we often find our own path becomes clearer and lighter Generosity isn’t a distraction from progress – it’s part of it
Ask yourself, when have I
experienced growth through helping another? And who around me may need support right now?
If you’d like to know more about strengthening relationships, exploring your potential and creating transformation in your life, phone Mary Parker The
Say goodbye to Varicose Veins
Heavy, tired, achy/restless legs, leg cramps, swollen legs, itchy skin, dermatitis, poor skin healing and leg ulcers are all common symptoms of varicose veins.
If you suffer from any of these symptoms, consider a consultation with a vein specialist
FEEL CONFIDENT IN YOUR LEGS AGAIN, WITH NON-SURGICAL VEINS TREATMENT.
Dr Phoebe Shearman has returned to the Bay of Plenty following further specialist training in Auckland and is dedicated to delivering effective, minimally invasive treatments for varicose veins.
Dual-trained in Phlebology and General Practice, Dr Shearman is passionate about providing patient-focused, comprehensive care for varicose veins and chronic venous disease and offers Endovenous Ablation (RFA) and Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy
Both are non-surgical treatments that are walk in and walk out treatments, requiring no general anaesthesia and minimal down time
Tauranga Hospital on Cameron Rd.
Photo / Kelly O’Hara
Megan Wilson
A celebration of symphonic brilliance
Bay of Plenty Symphonia and Youth Philharmonic Tauranga are joining forces this month for a concert celebrating the drama and passion of orchestral music.
Titled Young@Heart 3: Growing Up Is Optional, the June 20 event promises to be a golden celebration of symphonic brilliance at Otūmoetai College Performing Arts Centre in Tauranga
Under conductor William McElwee, Youth Philharmonic Tauranga will perform soaring Mozart alongside much-loved Puccini operatic classics, before v venturing into thrilling territory with music from Doctor Who and Phantom of the Opera
Kelly Hayward then makes her Bay of Plenty Symphonia conducting debut, leading a programme of Italian passion including overtures from Mozart’s La Clemenza di Tito, Rossini’s Barber of Seville, and Ponchielli’s Dance of the Hours, familiar to many from Disney’s Fantasia movie
The two orchestras will then combine for a rousing finale, performing Offenbach’s famous can-can from Orpheus in the Underworld, before rounding out the evening with Bizet’s gorgeous Carmen Suite
Th The Young@Heart 3: Growing Up Is Optional concert is on Saturday,
June 20, at 3.30pm at Otūmoetai College Performing Arts Centre.
Tickets cost $15 per adult, and under-18s gain free entry Tickets are available from Eventfinda, The Strand Tauranga, Fenton St Rotorua, or by phoning 0800 BUY TIX.
Thanks to Bay of Plenty Symphonia, The Weekend Sun has two double passes to give away to the June 20 concert Young@Heart 3: Growing Up Is Optional to two lucky readers who can tell us where the event will take place?
June is MND Action Month – and Kiwis are urged to host an ice bucket challenge or a cuppa tea to help make time count for people living with Motor Neurone Disease.
is two to three years after diagnosis “It attacks the nerves that control movement so muscles no longer work. It can leave people locked in a failing body, unable to move, talk and eventually breathe.”
People are asked to host a morning or afternoon tea with whānau, friends, their workplace, club or school – and ask for a donation to support MND research and care
It could be as simple as a cuppa in the staffroom or as elaborate as a high tea.
Littlies
With 400-plus Kiwis living with MND – and two dying from it each week – Motor Nerone Disease New Zealand will use the funds raised from the action month to carry out their work of personalised support, education, advocacy and research.
A touch of magic is coming to The Historic Village with the unveiling of a brand-new fairy garden – a whimsical space designed for tamariki (children) and whānau (families) to explore.
The fairy garden will officially open during Fairy Day at The Village on Thursday, June 18 – a free event designed for under-fives celebrating International Fairy Day Historic Village facilitator, and creative force behind the project, Michelle Smith said from 10am to 1pm visitors can enjoy a magical morning of dress-ups, storytelling and family fun as The Village transforms into a fairy wonderland.
“Families can meet roaming fairies, enjoy face painting, giant bubbles, fairy hunts, craft activities, a petting zoo, pop-up stalls and a free screening of Tinker Bell and The Pirate Fairy at the Village Cinema ”
The fairy garden will be a permanent attraction for the community, designed to encourage families to slow down, wander and experience the charm of The Village together, she said.
“There’s something timeless about fairy gardens – they spark imagination, curiosity and a sense of wonder in both tamariki and adults alike,” Smith said
“We wanted to create something magical and lasting for
To enter, visit sunlive. co.nz and click on the ‘ comppetitions’ tab Entries must be in by Tuesday, June 12.
invitedto magicofnew fairygarden
MND is a fatal, rapidly progressing disease that affects the brain and spinal cord, according to MNDNZ “MND has no cure, and no truly meaningful treatment options ” The average life expectancy
Thrill-seekers can nominate a brave chief executive, school principal or team leader to have an ice bucket tipped over them once a fundraising goal is reached. For extra fun, auction off the bucket-tipper role. To sign up to MND Action Month, visit: www mndactionmonth.org.nz/ signup
the community, somewhere whānau can explore together and make special memories while visiting The Village.” Smith said the garden would not have been possible without the support of Emma Cole and the wider fairy garden crew, who helped bring the vision to life.
Fairy Day builds on the success of other free community events held at The Historic Village, including Easter celebrations, Festive Vibes and Children’s Day, which have attracted thousands of visitors, she said.
Fairy Day at The Village – to celebrate International Fairy Day and the unveiling of The Historic Village’s new Fairy Garden – is on Thursday, June 18 from 10am-1pm Entry is free!
A sneak peek of the new fairy garden that will be unveiled at the event. Photo / Supplied
Youth Philharmonic Tauranga performing at one of their concerts last year. Photo / Supplied
Beatlemania again…Again
Popular wisdom is that time travels in one direction I have my doubts.
Sometimes it feels we have become, like Kurt Vonnegut’s Billy Pilgrim from Slaughterhouse Five, unmoored in time, dropping in and out at random moments
Or perhaps it’s more a loop, like manifold science fiction stories, though currently it’s leaning less towards fun Doctor Who shenanigans and more dystopian Donnie Darko Let’s examine the facts
With an international backdrop of an unpopular war which could become a long-running quagmire, the biggest concert film features Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan is on tour, and there are new albums from The Rolling Stones and The Beatles What year is it? 1966?
Surely not 2026?
This column started here in the early-2000s, shortly after the 1990s wave of Beatlemania, fuelled by the Anthology collection and eight-part TV documentary That seemed the end of it. Now, a quarter of a century later, Peter Jackson cleaned up that very same documentary, which turns out to be the tip of a new Beatles iceberg.
No fewer than four
There are currently no fewer than four Beatles films being made, as well as a BBC drama series Hamburg Days The four films will each foreground a different Beatles, with Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, Joseph Quinn as George Harrison and Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr
Directing all this is Sam Mendes,
no stranger to possible conflict after making two James Bond films. Whether he’ll tackle more tetchy moments such as Harrison’s affair with Starr’s wife is uncertain.
All this Beatlesy activity is complicated by the fact that two of the legendarily fab four are still alive and making music
Last week McCartney played the farewell broadcast of Stephen Colbert’s Late Show; both he and Starr have new albums.
McCartney’s is The Boys of Dungeon Lane, the best thing he’s produced this century, a genuinely moving and cleverly-crafted set of songs that suggest he’s stopped chasing pop dreams and is accepting his ‘older statesman ’ role with aplomb
New Stones album
Starr’s is Long Long Road and is...well, it’s Starr More of his “unique” weird big-band country, for better or worse As always, he sounds preternaturally cheerful though I’d take the one shared duet on McCartney’s album – Home To
Us – over anything on Long Long Road
Meanwhile The Rolling Stones’ ForeignTongues album arrives next month They initially slipped out an impressively bruising single, Rough and Twisted, on vinyl only under the name The Cockroaches I’m sure there was a good reason They’ve now released the more conventional song In The Stars McCartney guests on ForeignTongues, as he did on their last album Hackney Diamonds, alongside Steve Winwood, another man busy making history in 1966 singing The Spencer Davis Group’s Gimme Some Lovin’ And, as if defying all concept of time, 85-year-old Bob Dylan is still on the road He played 83 gigs last year, 27 this year so far with 36 more lined up before the end of July Maybe it is 1966 after all?
www tinyurl com/35z46pf8
Tauranga Whai joined the league as an expansion team in 2024. Doors open 2.30pm on June 6 for a rapid league tip-off at 3pm and the NBL League tip-off at 4pm. The event offers Whai fans the chance to get behind their team at a home game, which will have high-energy entertainment and giveaways for the whole family Book tickets at: https://whai.flicket. co.nz The NBL season runs from March-July and all games are broadcast on Sky Sport.
A scene from Peter Jackson’s documentary The Beatles: Get Back Photo / Supplied
Saturday 6 June
Association Croquet On Sat, Mon, & Wed 9 15am for 9 30am start at Club Mt Maunganui, 45 Kawaka St Visitors & new players welcome Ph Peter 07 574 9232
Badminton Social Badminton, Greerton Hall, Mon + Fri 10 30am – 12 30pm All Welcome Ph Lorraine 027 408 6211
Beth-El Messianic Family Celebrate Shabbat (Sabbath) as did Messiah Yeshua (Jesus), his disciples and early believers All welcome Lifezone -7-Oaklane-Judea-Tauranga 10am or Youtube Live @10am Joel 021 768 043 info@bethel org nz
Boules - Petanque Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at Club Mt Maunganui Boules available New players welcome Ph Ray 027 756 3565 for times, further details
Free Repair Cafe Tauranga Volunteers come together and fix objects destined for landfill for free @basestation Durham street, Tauranga Last Saturday of every month 9 30-11 30am Free ticket at www tinkd nz
Indoor Bowls Saturday Tuesday and Wednesday 12 45 am start 50+ and over Afternoon tea is provided 14 Norris Street (behind Pak n Save) Carol 022 639 2411
Laughing Yoga Arataki Community Centre 10am every Saturday Join a friendly bunch for 45 minutes of fund and laughter! phone Jude 021-0277 5901
St Stephen’s Jigsaw Library Every Saturday 10am-12noon Hire for 2 weeks a variety of 600 puzzles Cnr of Brookfield and Highmore Terrace
Tauranga Bird Show Tauranga Racing Club, Cameron Road Saturday 20th 1-5 and Sunday 21st 9-12 A weekend for feathered friends Admission fee
Tauranga Numismatic Society Interested in coins, banknotes, medals, etc Dealers present Come and see us Coin and Stamp Fair Tauranga Methodist Church 100 13th Avenue 9am-3pm
Tauranga Scottish Society Sequence dance 4th Sat Monthly at Wesley Church Hall 100/13th Ave 7pm Dancing, raffles and supper All welcome Ph Nola 576 5076
Tauranga Social Dance Club Sequence Dancing 2nd Sat monthly 7pm St Johns Church Hall 94 Bureta Road $7 incl Supper and raffles All welcome Ph Nola 576 5076
Sunday 7 June
Accordion Music Group Every third Sunday of the month, Welcome Bay Hall, 1-4pm, $4 00pp, afternoon tea supplied, everyone welcome to an afternoon of evergreen music Ph Joy 027 285 3093
Golf Croquet On Sun Tues & Thurs 8 30am for 9am start at Club Mt Maunganui, 45 Kawaka St Visitors & new players welcome Ph Graham 07 572 1032
Mah Jong Experienced players invited Sunday & Thursday 12 45 - 4pm, learners to be arranged Te Puke Lyceum Rooms 8 Palmer Pl, ph coordinator 027 430 6383 Miniatures Club Tauranga “Making it Small” Meetings 2nd Sunday each month [Feb-Nov] 10am to 4pm Art and Craft Centre, 177 Elizabeth Street Tauranga Contact: Jan 021 2145192
Otumoetai Rotary Carboot Sale 8 00am for buyers at Otumoetai College Car Park Windsor Road for Otumoetai Rotary Sellers $10 Details Brian 021 122 8735 or Bevan 027 461 2127
Otumoetai Rotary Electronic Recycling Electronic Recycling Give your gear a new life Fees apply Otumoetai College Car Park Windsor Rd 8 00am Brian 021 12 28735
Pyes Pa Walking Group We are a casual medium paced group Leaving from outside Fez Kebab, Pyes Pa Shops at 9am About 1 hour, followed by a cafe visit
Radio Controlled Model Yachts Sundays 1:00-3:30pm, at Pond behind 22 Montego Drive Papamoa sailing Electron Radio Controlled Yachts for fun and competition Adult beginners welcome Graham 572 5419
Rifle Range Open Day Managed by NZDA-BOP branch at TECT AllTerrain park, upper Pyes Pa Last Sunday of every month (except December), 9am – 3pm Day fees apply Must bring a valid firearms license, and all rifles and ammo to be inspected upon arrival Info wwwdeerstalkersbop org nz
Tauranga Model Aircraft Club Interested in flying model planes? Join us every weekend at TECT Park weather permitting between 10-3pm Beginners welcome Directions & webcam on our website www taurangamodelflyorg
Tauranga Organ Keyboard Society Meets at 1 30pm Carmel Country Estate Social Centre 11 Hollister Lane Ohauiti, Tauranga Play or listen to Organ, Clavinova, Piano A Friendly Bunch Contact Maureen 544 5013 Monday 8 June
500 Card Group Every Monday (except public holidays) from 9 30-11 30am, held at Age Concern, 177A Fraser Street, Tauranga, $2 donation, light refreshment provided - all welcome!
Euchre Tauranga Euchre Club Monday evenings from 7pm Inquiries - Graeme 027 543 0872
Indoor Bowls Matua Primary School Hall at 7 15pm New members welcome Come and join us for a evening of fun and bowls Phone Karen 576 0443
Invitation to singing men Harmony-A-Plenty has been singing for twenty years We practise Monday evenings 7-9pm Ph Frank 576 3037 David 576 0578
Mahjong Every Monday at 12 30pm Tauranga Rowing
Club Memorial Park Learners welcome Contact Jill 027 476 9440 or 543 0390
Papamoa Mah jong Papamoa Mah jong 12 15pm4 00pm Bowling Club Rooms, 2 Alice Lane Gordon Spratt Reserve Come and have some fun Afternoon tea provided Ph Wendy 021 0238 7283 or Chris 027 415 5771
Papamoa Patchers Patchwork and Quilting meet at St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Hall from 9 30am12 30pm each Monday New members welcome
Recycled Teenagers Gentle Exercise St Peters church hall, 15 Victoria Rd, Mount Maunganui 9 30-11am
Suitable for joint replacements, arthritics, recovery from accident & illness Strength, coordination & balance
Jennifer 027 206 0776
Tauranga City Brass Tauranga City Brass Band Practice nights on a Monday 7pm to 9pm for Snr Band Jnr band from 5:30 to 7pm Contact Jeremy 021 132 3341
Tauranga and District Stamp Club Every second Monday (10am) and fourth Monday (7 30pm) of each month
Wesley Hall 100 Thirteenth Avenue New members welcome Ross 578 8215 Jill 578 0930
Tauranga Theatre Organ Society Meet at Baycourt
Theatre at 1 00pm Hear and play Taurangas historic Wurlitzer organ All welcome, no charge Ph 552 0243
Tauranga Vision Club Tauranga Vision Club (affiliated to Friendship NZ) meets 4th Monday each month at Tauranga Citz Club 10 am - noon New members welcome Ph Jim 022 088 7760
Te Puke Community Menz Shed 48 Cameron Road, Te Puke. Mon, Wed, Fri 9am-12.30pm. Share your skills & knowledge, learn new skills or redevelop your old skills.
Ph Mike Harman 027 444 8559 or Phillip Du Plooy 021 756 604.
U3A Tauranga Seniors Group We have interest groups running Mon-Fri Computing, card & board games, dining, films history music photography exercise sciences www u3atauranga kiwi nz
Womens Art Group We are a Women’s Art group who meet every Monday 10am, 68 1st Ave to paint together in a supportive environment Beginners welcome Annie 021 186 4429
Tuesday 9 June
500 Card Club Mount Community Hall 12 15 pm Fun and friendly group All ages all welcome Afternoon tea provided Parking available Bus stop nearby Queries to 027 658 6848
Altrusa Ladies Service Group Come and join a group of women for community projects & social events We meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of the month Ph Maggie 0274476530 or visit wwwaltrusa org nz
Arataki Coastal Club Meet on 2nd Tuesday of the month 9 30am Arataki Community Centre for friendship, morning tea, guest speaker, dining, outings etc Contact Robyn 572 2908, Bev 575 3348
Body+Soul for 50+ Fun Fitness for men and women Exercise for better health strength and balance to great music Tauranga Senior Citizens hall Norris St Ph Dianne 027 431 4326
Cherrywood Probus Meet every 2nd Tuesday of Month @ Citizens Club 13th Ave 10 00am Come along for Fun Fellowship And Friendship Visitors very welcome Pam 578 3757
Chess at Mount Maunganui Mount Maunganui RSA Chess club, 544 Maunganui Rd, Mondays 6:15pm & 7pm onwards excl Public holidays for more info http:/www westernbopchess weeblycom/ or search Western BOP Chess
Coffee/Conversation Group Te Puke Age Concern
Tauranga holds a friendly Coffee and Conversation Group, Te Puke Citizens RSA, 179 Jellicoe Street, 10am – 11 30, cost $5pp All Welcome
Croquet in the Domain Tues and Weds Tauranga Croquet
Club A great place for Christmas team-building events For more info phone: 020 4112 0241
Free Public Advocacy Service Need help completing a form? Accompany you to an appointment? Talk to an agency? Come speak to an Advocate! Every Tuesday, Greerton Library, 1-2:30pm
Golden Brass Band Practices every Tuesday at Tauranga Band Hall 10 Yatton Street Greerton from 10am till 12
noon This is a social group to enjoy music making Phone Malcolm Gapes 027 224 3045
Greerton Indoor Bowling Club Greerton Senior Citizens Hall in Maitland Street Greerton on Tuesday nights from 7pm New members welcome Phone Sally 021 172 6004
Greerton Walking Group Meet outside Greerton Library at 9am for a gentle, local walk with a friendly crowd, followed by a cafe visit All welcome Contact Mike 021 180 7429
Inachord Singers Tauranga Women’s Chorus with Musical Director Dan Ieremia Non audition Tuesdays at 6 45pm Bethlehem Community Church, 183 Moffat Road
Contact: Julie 021 025= 26805 or Sabine 021 111 8659
Keep On Your Feet Katikati Community Centre, 45 Beach Road, 11am-12 Strength & balance classes for older adults, all levels of fitness welcome Contact Sharnie 021 111 8617
Korero with kawhe Every Tuesday morning at 10
GRINDZ cafe 1st Ave Practise your reo, all levels Use it or lose it Korerorero Te ako Te katakata
Let’s Learn Something New An A-Z of Clubs, Courses & Classes happening now Find an activity, join, & do it! All ages wwwletslearn co nz or ph 07 578 9416
Migrant Seniors Morning Tea 10am - 12pm, Multicultural Tauranga, complex 1, Historic Village, 17th Avenue To register/more information ph 07 571 6419 or email enquiries@trmc co nz
Mount Runners and Walkers Join us at 9 30am for a run or walk at our club rooms in May Street, all weather, all year round, Tuesdays and Fridays, all welcome
Olympic Style Rifle Shooting Every Tuesday evening at 7 00pm at the Tauranga Target Rifle Clubs range, 165 Elizabeth Street, opposite Tyre master Public welcome All gear and coaching provided
Social Petanque Join us for some fun at Bayfair Reserve, Russley Dr 12 45 to 2 30pm, Tues and Thurs New players very welcome Call 0211580129 for details
Recycled Teenagers Gentle Exercise Mt Bible Chapel cnr Monowai and Bedford 9-10 30am Suitable for joint replacements, arthritics, recovery from accident or illness Strength, coordination & balance Jennifer 027 206 0776
Tauranga Embroiderers Guild Meets Tuesdays @ Bowls Tauranga South, 15 Tutchen St (off 11th Ave) 10am2 30pm Everyone welcome Contact Linda 027 369 0984 or taurangaembroiderersguild@gmail com
Tauranga Model Railway Club Club meets Tuesday 9 30am & Thursday 7 30pm corner Mirrielees & Cross roads, Sulphur Point Ph Mike 021 939 233
Tauranga Morning Badminton Club Come join us at Haumaru Sports Centre, 483 Cameron Road Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:30am to midday Casual players welcome
Contact Pam, 022 806 9117
Tauranga Scrabble Club Tuesday Scrabble Meet weekly for friendly & competitive games at Tauranga Citizens Club
Te Puna Bridge Bridge at Te Puna-Maramatanga Park
Community Centre time:1845 play 1900 every Tuesday night phone Richard partnership steward 027 552 0917 very sociable club come learn 9 30am - 12 45pm Ph Fay 021 164 8180
Te Puna Quarry Park Many tasks for active volunteers in a friendly team environment 8:30am-noon each week Contact Jennifer 021 132 9585 or email tepunaquarrypark@gmail com
Wednesday 10 June
500 Cards Play 500 1pm Wednesdays at St Thomas More Church, 17 Gloucester Rd $4, including refreshments and prizes Barbara 0272169066 or Bob 027 478 6282
10 Pin Bowling 1pm 135 13th Ave Tauranga We are a mixed social group, non competitive but record the score Contact Glenda 021 257 8678
Age Concern Walking Group A friendly weekly walking group for all ages and all fitness levels 10am start, meet at McFetridge Lane, Ohauiti
Beginner Social Ballroom/Latin Group Dance Class Wednesday, 6pm-7pm, Welcome Bay Primary School Hall, 309 Welcome Bay Road Phone Sonia 0273221786 or Just come along Details on website: wwwsupremedancecentre nz
Body+Soul 50+Fun Fitness For better health, strength and balance to great music Men and women welcome, make new friends 9 15am Bethlehem hall opposite Woolworths Ph Dianne 027 431 4326
Bolivia Te Puke Every Wednesday at RSA Te Puke 1pm4pm beginners welcome Come and join our friendly group Ph Brenda 027 229 6992
Cards - cribbage Come and join our friendly group every Wednesday 12 30 for 1pm start Tauranga Citz Club, 13th Ave New players very welcome Jill 021 1606 143
Coffee/Conversation Group -Brookfield Age Concern Tauranga holds a friendly Coffee and Conversation Group at St Stephens Church, 9 Brookfield Terrace, 10 30am12noon, cost $5pp All Welcome
Improve Strength & Balance Steady as you go (saygo)
Exercise programme keeps you mobile Friendly group 2-3pm Wednesdays at St Johns Church Hall, Burtea Road Phone Angela 576 9847
Ladies Tennis Every Wednesday at Tauranga Lawn Tennis Club Come join in ladies tennis from 9-11 am New or seasoned players are welcome
Marching For Leisure A non-competitive activity for mature ladies Fun, fitness, friendship For Tauranga teams
practice contact Brenda Potter 021 704 553
Multicultural Morning Tea Join us for Morning Tea every Wednesday, 10am at Tauranga Multicultural Centre, Historic Village Meet new people enjoy conversation and a welcoming community atmosphere
Newcomers Coffee Meetup Group New to Tauranga? Come along to meet other like-minded people and make new connections For more information email enquiries@ trmc co nz or phone 07 571 6419
Omanu Rebus Club Join our monthly meeting 9 30am at Mt Maunganui RSA Enjoy morning tea, guest speaker, raffles other activities for Older Adults Ph Margaret 021 170 5933
Seniors Fitness Greenwood Park Wednesdays 9 15am for fun fitness to music Improve strength & balance & gain more confidence Open to public also Ph 022 340 6219
Tauranga Embroiderers Guild Meets Wednesdays 7-9pm Everyone welcome For venue confirmation please contact
Linda 027 369 0984 or taurangaembroiderersguild@gmail com
Tauranga Midweek Tramping Group Sentinel Rock from Hot Springs Road Bethlehem Mod Carolyn 021 253 5175
Tauranga South garden club Meets 1st Wednesday of the month at 1pm at Baptist church corner Cameron Rd and 13th Ave all welcome Enquiries Margaret 021 0172 02184
Thursday 11 June
500 Card Club Mount Community Hall 12 15 pm Fun and friendly group All ages all welcome Afternoon tea provided Parking available Bus stop nearby Ph 027 658 6848
Adult Social Ballroom/Latin Dance Free Introductory Ballroom and Latin Dance Lesson Enquire now! www udance2 co nz Email: udance2@xtra co nz Phone 021230-3187
Coffee/Conversation Group -Greerton Age Concern Tauranga holds a friendly Coffee and Conversation Group, Greerton Senior Citizens Hall, 33 Maitland Street, 10 30am - 12noon, cost $3pp All Welcome
Creative Fibre Tauranga Knitting, crochet, spinning, weaving felting & dyeing Mondays 9:30am & 2nd & 4th Thurs 6:30pm 177 Elizabeth St Enjoy learning new crafts Joan 021 323 325
Fairy Day at Village Celebrate International Fairy Day on 18 June and the unveiling of The Historic Village’s new Fairy Garden, from 10am-1pm, Entry is free Flexercise with Fitness League Exercise, movement and dance focusing on posture, strenghtening, stretching and flexibility, suit all ages and abilities, 10am Baptist Church Hall, 13th Ave Pam 021 117 7170
Free Public Advocacy Service Need help completing a form? Accompany you to an appointment? Talk to an agency? Come see us! Every Thursday Welcome Bay Community Centre, 1-2 30pm Healing Rooms Prayer NEW TIME 7-9pm Every Thursday St Peters Church Cameron Rd Entrance Experience Gods Healing, physical, emotional, spiritual All Welcome No charge facebook com/ TaurangaCentralHealingRooms 027 640 1263
Keynotes Women’s Barbershop Chorus Love to sing start 2026 on a tuneful note Women any age welcome, 7pm Wesley Hall, 100 13th Avenue Contact Bernice 576 4848, 0274424642
Learn to play bowls Free coaching Lots of fun Beginners most welcome Meet new people Keep active Papamoa Bowls Inc, Gordon Spratt Reserve, Papamoa Thursdays 10am to 12pm
Mt Maunganui Creative Fibre Every Thursday 9 30am - 12 30pm St Andrews Presbyterian Church, Dee St Mt Maunganui Spinning, knitting, weaving, felting, crochet etc all fibrecrafts Very friendly group
Give Petanque a go Play social petanque at Bayfair Reserve, Russley Dr 12 45 to 2 30pm Tues and Thurs Friendly club, all welcome Boules available Call 0211580129 for details
Serenata Singers Thursdays 10 - 11 30, Methodist Church Hall, 2 Oroua Street, Te Puke Phone Anne 027 850 3776
Starseed UFO club tga Social group for people who are into alternative realities and ufos Step out of the box and into a coffee meet up Monthly meetings Phone Dan 022 462 3316
Te Puke Mah Jong Lyceum Club rooms 8 Palmer Pl 12 45 -4 00 pm Convenor 027 430 6383
Women’s Book Group We are a group of women who enjoy reading books and of course each others company, 68 1st Avenue 1st Thursday each month at 1pm Jean 021 821 540
Womens Singing Group We are a group of women who enjoy singing together Learners very welcome Starts February 13th on Thursday 10am, 68 1st Avenue Tauranga Ann 027 280 3510
Friday 12 June
Free Public Advocacy Service Need help completing a form? Accompany you to an appointment? Talk to an agency? Come see us! Every Friday at Pāpāmoa Library 1-2:30pm Cards 500 & Rummikub Senior Citizens Club at RSA Te Puke 1pm-4pm Come and have some fun Afternoon tea provided All welcome Ph Brenda 027 229 6992 Papamoa Indoor Bowls New members welcome at our friendly daytime indoor bowls club Papamoa Sports Centre Gordon Spratt Park 11 45am to 3pm Contact Neal 027 544 5460
RAeS BOP Branch meeting Join our organisation for monthly presentations on various aviation matters At Classic Flyers Museum from 6 00pm, and supper provided Tauranga Patchwork & Quilters Every 2nd & 4th Friday at 10am Tauranga Art & Craft Centre, 177 Elizabeth St Contact: taurangaquilters@gmail com
Te Puke Knit Natter Every Friday 10am to 12pm At Te Puke Library Bring your knitting or crocheting All welcome Enquiries to Moureen 022 584 1636
Experienced,
In Loving Lovi Memory
