2 October 2026, Issue 1330
Hooked to the mat! Meet local resident Matthew Spargo. About six years ago, flicking through a school sports brochure, one code caught his eye. Indoor bowls. “I just looked on the little brochure that we got at the start of the year with all the
sports on it, and I saw that and I thought I’d give it a go,” Spargo said. His first AIMS Games in Year 8 saw him opt for indoor bowls rather than hockey – and he came away with three gold medals, including singles and pairs, and a medal
for Tauranga Intermediate’s overall school result. “That’s probably what really hooked me into it,” he said. Coached by Marg and Dave Crockett, he’s won a raft of New Zealand Secondary Schools singles titles and two consecutive
pairs titles with his father, William. Recently, the 17-year-old umpired his favourite sport at the 2026 Zespri AIMS Games. Find out what makes Spargo love this sport so much on page 13. Photo / Kelly O’Hara
Friday 2 October 2026
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405 Cameron Rd, Private Bag 12002, Tauranga Mail Centre, Tauranga 3143. Phone 07 578 0030 www.theweekendsun.co.nz ads@thesun.co.nz newsroom@thesun.co.nz
The Weekend Sun is published every Friday and distributed throughout the Western Bay of Plenty from Waihi Beach, through Katikati, Tauranga, Mount Maunganui, Papamoa and Te Puke and available to collect at many stand locations throughout the area. For a full list of stand locations see https://theweekendsun.co.nz/stand-locations.html The Weekend Sun is part of NZME - New Zealand Media & Entertainment. We keep Kiwis in the know. Locally produced at 405 Cameron Rd, Tauranga
Editor: Merle Cave Editorial: Letitia Atkinson, Rosalie Liddle Crawford, Hunter Wells, Ayla Yeoman. Publications Manager: Kathy Sellars. Advertising: Cade Hughes, Jo Delicata, Sharon Eyres, Ben Simpson. Design Studio: Kym Johnson, Caitlin Burns.
The day ‘Herbert’ overstepped He would’ve arrived home wide-eyed, soggy, and smelling like marmalade.
That’s because he just about got sconed with an overripe grapefruit. Herbert. The ginger tabby – he would have made a nice tangy citrus preserve. Herbert lords it over the neighbourhood. Self-anointed territorial rights. Everyone’s place is his place. And there’s the problem. Because on our side of the hedge we embrace the birdlife – there’s a small, raised bird loft with a bottle of nectar mix for the
tui. The orchestra birds reward with song and aerial gymnastics, as do the energetic wee wax-eyes. I chuck out wild bird seed for the finches et al – even sparrows. It’s appreciated. They dart, scramble and get their fill. But Herbert thinks we’re laying on a smorgasbord for him. He comes slinking under the hedge. Rust red, vertical stripes. Pure stealth. Like a hired gun. All menace. Crouched, head thrust forward, amber eyes wide and fixed, calculating the strike range, when to pounce. When to kill. But
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high protein, meat-first, cat food. Then he will lick his chops, have his ears scratched by owners making exaggerated baby talk noises, and curl up beneath the heat pump. Cats like Herbert, rightly or wrongly, have carte blanche – can wander, roam, trespass on other people’s property and kill with impunity. Unlike dogs, of course. I am not against cats – Timmy, Cindy, Ginge the loveable, drooling and rutting Manx tom with a torn ear, Demelza and Tilly gave us decades of pleasure. As well as a substantial heap of rat, mouse and bird corpses. But we didn’t try to contain them, because there was no compulsion to do so.
Fluffing your feathers
Wishy-washy
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I blast him with my bazooka, a windfall grapefruit, a bitter 250g missile. It explodes on a fence post beside him, showering him with pips and peel and juice. Gotcha! Herbert performed an impressive, vertical, standing launch in fright and scrambled back under the hedge. I didn’t want to hurt him. Just wanted to remind him there were more grapefruit, should he wander where he wasn’t welcome. Besides I had gifted a night of love to two grey herons. Herbert won’t go hungry – tonight he’ll choose from a selection of single-serve, pouched recipes of wet or dry,
Probably still not an appetite for it considering the hullabaloo when Morgan launched “Cats to Go” – his campaign urging against cat ownership to protect native wildlife. Keep them inside he suggested, neuter them, don’t replace them when they die. “Heartless and a zealot,” they called him, and his scheme “harebrained and offensive”. Brisbane’s not so wishy-washy about cats. In the Sunshine State, cats, by law, must be microchipped and confi fined to fi their own propertyy at alll times, by whatever means – feencing, outdoor enclosures – too prevent roaming. You could cop p a fine
and your furball be imp pounded. There are curffews in some places. Th There are proven upsides they say – fewer pets get injured or killed by cars, less exposure to disease, lower care costs, fewer cat fights, fewer dog attacks, fewer lost pets or strays. So longer, healthier lifespans. It was suggested I build barriers under the hedge to keep Herbert out. Ultra-sonic devices to upset his sensitive ears, sprinklers, cat repellent plants and a cover for exposed soils. So, the neighbours get a cute wee fluffball, and I pay for the pleasure. Great. Hey Herbert – how about a Memorandum of Understanding? You stay home and I will lean over the fence, scratch your ears and flick you some Whiskas. No marmalade.
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Herbert’s also trespassing, straying across the demilitarised zone into sovereign territory where he’s not welcome. Our place. Cats have their place as long as owners take responsibility, take control. Right now, Herbert’s out of control. He was about 2m, and a split second from making a kill. Two stunning native birds could die, needlessly. Only to satisfy Herbert’s hunting instincts, for an afternoon blood thrill. “Natural born serial killers,” economist Garth Morgan once labelled cats. He didn’t much care for moggies because “they devastate NZ’s unique native bird population”. He had a point.
The two birds Herbert is slavering over are royalty – elegant, graceful, battleship-blue grey herons perched on a 2m high raised garden frame above the creek at the top of our drive. On the sanctuary side of the hedge. It should be safe. The herons are a sight because you may see one, rarely two. They’re loners, self-reliant. Perhaps it’s the season? Perhaps they’re fluffing their feathers for love, there’s intimacy afoot. But first they’re playing the patience gaame – waiting for the tide to wash a titbit into the creek before heading up into the the pōhutukawa to roost, to snuggle against the night cold. But there’s Herbert shuffling on his haunches, primed to leap. No concern for the biological cycle of the heron. If I don’t intervene, launch a broadside offensive, there will be heron on Herbert’s breath tonight, blood on his claws and no conscience. But not today, Herbert. Not today.
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Te Puke hospice shop needs volunteers to stay open Waipuna Hospice needs 50 new volunteers to help run its charity shops after one had to close for a day this month when help couldn’t be secured.
Te Puke’s Waipuna Hospice shop closed on September 15 because there weren’t enough volunteers to operate it safely, manager Catherine Sipson said. “Without them, we can’t open,” Sipson said. “We wouldn’t have shops if we didn’t have volunteers. If we didn’t have shops, we wouldn’t be able to support Waipuna Hospice.” Waipuna Hospice had now put a call out for 50 new volunteers to join its network of charity shops – at Fraser St, Mount Maunganui, Pāpāmoa, Katikati and Te Puke – and no retail experience was required. People were asked to consider volunteering as little as a three-hour shift per week, although the organisation was increasingly flexible about the time people can give.
Gradual decline
Waipuna Hospice general manager of retail Jace Dowman said the decline in volunteers at the Te Puke shop had happened gradually, with some longserving, older volunteers retiring. “There hasn’t been a huge influx of volunteers replacing them,” he said. Sipson said eight volunteers who started when the shop opened 12 years ago still contributed their time to the six-day-perweek operation. The shop needed about four volunteers per shift, alongside paid staff, to cover the shop floor, the counter and processing
donations. Dowman said the organisation understood people’s time was increasingly stretched. “We’re open to two-hour shifts and as many as they want to do,” he said. “We’re even open if they want to do a four-hour shift once a month. We’re open to anything.” Sipson, who’d managed the Te Puke shop for 12 years, said the town’s seasonal kiwifruit industry did affect its pool of potential volunteers. Some retired and semi-retired people who might otherwise volunteer instead took on paid seasonal work, she said. The shop originally opened as a pop-up with 53 volunteers before community support enabled it to move into its premises at 200 Jellicoe St.
Young people
Sipson would particularly like to see more young people get involved and was exploring “micro-volunteering” opportunities for people who could not commit to regular shifts. “Because you know, we realise how time-poor a lot of people are with looking after grandkids, looking after spouses that may be unwell and there’s so many factors that contribute to the fact that volunteer numbers are declining,” she said. A donated hour of time could enable a volunteer to vacuum the shop, clean shelves or price clothing, she said. For those able to take on a regular shift, there were opportunities to work alongside other volunteers and become part of the wider hospice community. Sipson said many volunteers described the shop as their “happy place”. “They come in here because they’re
Waipuna Hospice Te Puke shop manager Catherine Sipson and general manager of retail Jace Dowman need new volunteers to sign up. Photo / Kelly O’Hara
made to feel valuable and feel like a really important part of the Waipuna Hospice family.” Dowman said the community atmosphere was one reason volunteers stayed for years. “We try to have as much fun as we can. Our volunteers give us so much, so it’s important they enjoy being here too. There’s plenty of laughter, coffee and biscuits along the way.”
Financial purpose
Behind the fun, however, was a serious purpose. Income generated from Waipuna Hospice’s five charity shops provided a good proportion of funding needed to run its services. Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora funded 44% of Waipuna Hospice’s overall annual operating costs
of more than $14 million. The rest of the funds had to be raised. Dowman said Waipuna Hospice supported almost 1000 patients a year, with most clinical care provided in patients’ homes. The impact of a shop closure extended well beyond the shop itself, he said. “Our shops make a significant contribution towards the funding we need to raise each year, so they’re an incredibly important part of Waipuna Hospice,” Dowman said. “But we simply couldn’t operate them without our volunteers. .” To volunteer at one fo the five shops, See:waipunahospice.org.nz/volunteer Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Friday 2 October 2026
The Weekend Sun
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300 dives later, a reef transformed Dr Phil Ross remembers a time when diving Ōtāiti / Astrolabe Reef meant swimming through what looked like a scrap metal recycling yard.
“You could go for a 40-minute dive and never see the sea floor because all you saw were flattened containers, steel and all of the material that had come out of the Rena wreck.” This Monday marks 15 years since MV Rena ran aground on Ōtāiti on October 5, 2011, spilling about 350 tonnes of heavy fuel oil into the Bay of Plenty. For the past 15 years, the former University of Waikato marine ecologist and his team have monitored the ecological effects of the Rena grounding at Astrolabe Reef, under contracts with Bay of Plenty Regional Council and, at various stages, the Rena’s owner and insurer. Ross had not dived at Ōtāiti / Astrolabe Reef before the Rena disaster. Soon afterwards, he dived at other reefs around Mōtītī to get a sense of what a relatively unaffected reef looked like, providing a comparison for his subsequent monitoring of Ōtāiti. Ross said that since October 2011 he’d made more than 300 dives at the reef, monitoring its recovery and the condition of the wreck that remains on the seabed. What he sees today is dramatically different. “The fish life is amazing. The biodiversity and the vibrancy of life on Ōtāiti is every bit as good as the other
to 30 or 50 years old, just hanging out. “And every now and then one of them will swim in and have a look at you.” For Ross, it is evidence of what a healthy reef ecosystem can look like when it is given the opportunity to recover. “It’s such a good news story,” he said. Ōtāiti is now part of the Mōtītī Protection Area, where fishing is prohibited and diving is permitted. Ross said recent comparisons with other reefs around Mōtītī found Ōtāiti had biodiversity and ecological health comparable with the surrounding reefs.
Copper wiring
Waikato University’s Megan Ranapia and Phil Ross with blue maomao, Sandager’s wrasse and snapper in the background at Ōtāiti / Astrolabe Reef. Photos / Phil Ross
offshore reefs in the Bay of Plenty.” In January 2012, the Rena container ship separated into two pieces and eventually began to sink. It was labelled New Zealand’s worst maritime environmental disaster, and the salvage operation was the second mostexpensive in the world at $700 million – paid for by the insurers of the Rena’s owners. The salvage operation and clean-up work ended in April 2016 while environmental
monitoring work continued.
Good news
Ross said that today the reef is supporting a thriving and diverse marine ecosystem, with large numbers of snapper among the most obvious signs of its recovery. “Whenever we’re diving, good-sized snapper are swimming around us, coming up and checking us out. And on the edge of your vision, they’ll be big snapper up
Bruno still wants his run
Bruno does not care what anybody’s knees think. He is a German Shepherd, he wants his run up the country road, and he wants it today. Lester, his owner, obliges. Bruno runs, Lester walks, and that is the arrangement. For a while there though, it was not one Lester could promise to keep. Home for Lester is a 10-acre lifestyle block. Horses, cattle, some sheep, and Bruno. “That takes a bit of physical looking after,” he says. All of it happens on your feet. Stock want feeding, water wants checking, and none of it moves itself to next week. When his knees and his hip started giving him trouble, there was nowhere on ten acres to hide it. Where it came from is no mystery: years of working around boats, jumping off the back onto the ground and off the trailer, over and over, and he reckons it caught up with him. “Too much shock load on my knees, I think it was.” A man who cannot walk his own paddocks freely is not much use to the place, and there is nobody else to walk them for him. An ad came past him on Facebook. No video, just a plain one setting out what the product was meant to do. Its name told him what it was for, and the rest told him what was in it. “I was having trouble at the time,” he says, “and so I got some.” That is about as much ceremony as Lester gives anything. Koru Joint is a 3-in-1 formula from Christchurch-based Koru Nutrition. Curcumin and boswellia soothe the joint and support flexibility, vitamin C and glucosamine nourish the cartilage
The wreck remains an important part of the monitoring, particularly because of copper wiring originally from buildings destroyed in the Canterbury earthquakes that went down with the stern of the Rena. “It was one disaster feeding into another,” Ross said. A significant amount was recovered during the salvage operation, but some remains beneath the wreck where it cannot be accessed. “We’re monitoring so if the wreck moves and the copper is exposed, then some decisions could be made about trying to recover it.” Ross said a major storm this year produced swells of about 10.5m, but the main wreck and the copper beneath it did not move. Sediment samples are collected from sites around the former debris field, as well as further away from the wreck, and are tested for copper and contaminants associated with anti-fouling paint. Advertisement
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and connective tissue, and chondroitin, hyaluronic acid and omega-3s support the fluid that keeps a joint moving smoothly. Where many joint supplements focus on one kind of support, Koru Joint works on three. No single morning arrived where everything was different. “I just kept taking it,” he says, and gradually there was more he could do again. Later he stopped taking it for a while. The knees were first to notice, and not quiet about it. “So I’d take it again and they’d go away.” That loop happened more than once, which for a practical man settles it. “It works,” he says. “I can vouch for that.” Two words cover what he can do now that he could not before. “Walk freely.” Twice,
which from Lester counts as emphasis. “I can walk freely. That’s the main thing.” And then, “I’ve got a lot more freedom in my joints.” It has been on the shelf so long he cannot date it. “It’s been quite a while.” The bottle sits there the way the feed bucket does. “I’ve always had it on hand because I found that it worked for me.” One rule covers most things in his life. “If it doesn’t need fixing, don’t fix it.” Koru Joint, as far as he is concerned, does not need fixing. “Just keep doing what you’re doing.” There is no claim here about turning back the years. “Age in itself slows you down,” he says. “You get the likes of Koru Joint, and that helps considerably.” Bruno, meanwhile, wants his run.
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Friday 2 October 2026
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Waikato University’s Megan Ranapia dives near a reef wall covered in colourful invertebrates on the north side of Ōtāiti / Astrolabe Reef.
Waikato University ty’s y Megan Ranapia surr rrounded r by blue maomao at Ōtāiti / Astrola labe a Reeff.
Kina are monitored as an indicator of contaminants entering the food chain. Water chemistry testing around the copper has also shown that its influence has not expanded beyond the area identified in earlier monitoring.
A focus
While the wreck remains a focus, Ross said the reef ’s recovery had increasingly become the more remarkable story. Some pieces of wreckage weighing tens of tonnes left in shallower water near the top of the reef had been moved by storms. “It’s really showing you the power of the ocean.” Yet when wreckage is moved, the reef underneath can recover surprisingly quickly. “When these bits of wreckage get moved off, within a few months we see a seaweed
forest starting to grow on the reef.” reef. He said some sections of wreckage were now so covered in marine life that it was difficult to distinguish between ship and reef. “I don’t have any long-term concerns. I’ve seen it at its worst, I’ve seen the trajectory of recovery and where it is now is quite amazing,” Ross said. “It’s a really good lesson in the resilience of the ocean and the ability of those reef ecosystems to recover from disturbance.” The reef continued to support a wide range of marine life, including jack mackerel, kahawai, kingfish, moki, Sandager’s wrasse, butterfly perch, blue maomao and the occasional manta ray, Ross said. “The wreck is fantastic to see, but it’s actually all of the reef around the wreck which is really spectacular.”
Even in the aftermath of the disaster, areas near the wreck continued to thrive. “Around the corner from where the shipwreck was, there’s a beautiful steep cliff, covered in sponges and anemones and vibrant life.” However, there are still challenges facing Ōtāiti. Ross pointed to the increasing abundance of long-spined black sea urchins in the Bay of Plenty as a wider environmental concern associated with warming waters. But it is not a Renaspecific issue.
Special place
After 15 years of diving, Ross said the transformation remains remarkable. “It would be better of course if there was no shipwreck there,” he said. “It’s an amazing recovery, a great demonstration of how all those different parts of the
ecosystem y can recover if they’re y given g that opportunity.” Ross said the current resource consent is due to end next year, with a planned handover of responsibility for the wreck and its ongoing management to Bay of Plenty Regional Council. For now, Ross continued to dive, monitor and watch a reef that had changed almost beyond recognition over the 15 years since he first descended on to the reef after the Rena disaster. “When you’re out there underwater, it’s a pretty special place to be, he said. Rosalie Liddle Crawford
*Disclaimer:The Weekend Sun journalist Rosalie Liddle Crawford was a co-producer of 2023 locally-made film Taking Back Our Beach, which documented the Bay of Plenty community’s response to the coastal disaster after the grounding of the MV Rena in October 2011.
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Friday 2 October 2026
Students’ film off to final A six-member Ōtūmoetai College film team has gone from a Friday night genre draw to regional winners in 48 hours. The Bourgeoisie was the only New Zealand school team selected as a finalist from the four regional finals of 2026 Vista Foundation 48Hours competition. Their five-minute film, Family Kids, was one of 15 films screened in the Across Aotearoa regional final on September 18. It won Best School Team, securing them a nomination at the Grand National Final this month.They also received nominations for Regional Manager Award and Best Sound Design. The team comprise writers/directors Jayden Dent and Aadit Tandon, editor/ sound Drew Bryan, and actors Isabella Fitt, Izzy Peers and Alec Newington. The students had 48 hours to write, film, edit and submit their movie after receiving their genre and four compulsory elements at 7pm on July 31. The team drew The Family Movie as their genre but decided against taking the obvious route. “We spun it in our own way,” Bryan said. The idea that stuck was a parody of an
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Ōtūmoetai College students Izzy Peers, Alec Newington and Isabella Fitt in their team’s 48Hour film Family Kids. Photo / Supplied
old-school 1980s sitcom. Their logline sums it up: “A neighbourhood kid visits his friend, but the casual hangout takes a bizarre turn when he unknowingly steps into the set of an 80s sitcom”. Scriptwriting continued into the early hours of August 1. Dent said he and Tandon were still working about 2am when doubts began to creep in. “Around 3 o’clock, we nearly turned the entire thing around and started looking for a new script,” he said.
The mahi
They decided to stick with it. Filming started late morning on August 1 because the students had to work around the availability of their actors. Borrowing a house from a parent’s friend, they completed filming in six hours. “It was pretty hectic,” Dent said. “There were multiple times throughout that when I was just like, ‘Are we actually
going to get this done on time?’” Once filming wrapped, they returned to the college and went straight into editing. Bryan spent much of the night synchronising the audio, working until about 4am on August 2. The team’s preparation before the competition included 3D-printing an attachment to mount their microphones on a pole, helping them capture sound. Bryan said adding the sitcom-style laugh tracks was another moment he knew the film was coming together. “As soon as I started adding the laugh tracks, I was like, ‘This is sounding really good’.” He said they’d competed in 48Hours three times. “In previous years we’ve had catastrophic failures, but it went more smoothly this year and we made our own theme song and it’s really good.” But this year’s success was unexpected, the team said. “We maybe thought that we had a chance getting on to the shortlist, maybe getting nominated for
Best School,” Dent said. “But I don’t think we ever thought that we were actually going to make or win the regional finals.”
To Wellington
The film also received praise at school. “Mr Buxton [a teacher] said our film is probably the best 48-hour film the school has produced, which is pretty cool.” Peers designed the film poster, a winner in the Letterboxd poster competition. For Dent and Bryan, in their final year at Ōtūmoetai, film-making may continue alongside their interest in engineering. “I’m still really keen to continue doing this competition and other competitions and making films,” Dent said. The top films from the four regional competitions – Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Across Aotearoa – progress to the grand final at Wellington’s Embassy Theatre on October 17.
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Friday 2 October 2026
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Running with grief, hope h and d communityy For more than a decade, the Tauranga City to Surf has taken runners and walkers around Mauao before bringing them home to the sand at Mount Maunganui Main Beach. This year, the route will be different. Following the fatal landslides in January, access to Mauao’s base track remains restricted and the traditional 11km course had has been shortened to 8.5km. While the course has changed, the reason for coming together remained – and this year there is an added purpose. The Mitre 10 MEGA Tauranga City to
Surf has named Grief Support Services (GSS) as its official charity partner, bringing two local organisations together around community, connection and wellbeing. For GSS general manager Deanna Wharton, the partnership is particularly fitting at a time when many in the community are dealing with loss, uncertainty and unwanted change. “The landslides have reminded us just how quickly life can change and how important community support is when it does,” Wharton said.
Natural fit
GSS supports people experiencing grief
When a farewell brings comfort There is something deeply powerful about getting a funeral right. But what does “right” look like? That is not a question we can answer for you. When we meet with families, our focus is always on creating a farewell that honours both the wishes of the person who has died and the needs of those left behind. Those wishes are often very personal. “Right” could be a simple, no-fuss goodbye for some; others imagine a larger celebration with flowers, music and shared food. When a farewell feels right, it can bring some comfort at a time when very little feels certain. In the midst of early grief, we often see a sense of relief come over families, knowing they have honoured someone they love in a way that
truly reflects them. It can give families something meaningful to hold onto in the days, months and years that follow. One way to make sure your version of right is honoured, is to have these conversations now. Talk with your family about what matters to you and ask about their wishes too. Then, when the time comes, knowing what someone wanted can make an incredibly difficult time a little easier. If you would like a free, noobligation chat with an experienced funeral director to help you, we'd be glad to help. Please get in touch. hopefunerals.co.nz 07 543 3151 | 2A Loop Rd Te Puna, Tauranga
Photo credits: Pexels
Tauranga City to Surf event director Murray Fleming with Grief Support Services general manager Deanna Wharton. Photo / Rosalie Liddle Crawford
following any unwanted change, including sudden and traumatic events. Wharton had been thinking for some time about an event that could bring people together through physical activity, nature and connection. “Being physically active, getting out of the house and spending time with other people can all play a valuable role in supporting wellbeing. City to Surf provides all three – bringing people together to walk, run, encourage one another and celebrate reaching the finish line,” she said. She initially imagined people running or walking in memory of someone they had lost – perhaps wearing something meaningful or dedicating their effort to that person. City to Surf proved a natural fit. Event director Murray Fleming said the event had never formally partnered with a charity in its 14-year history, but the connection with GSS was immediately clear. “The synergy between Grief Support and Tauranga City to Surf finishing at the Mount Maunganui Main Beach is very obvious,” Fleming said. “We are really, really proud to be part of the link with them, and we’re hoping that through multiple years we will be able to raise a lot of money for their wonderful service.” The event normally saw participants of all ages run or walk around Mauao. Last year’s oldest participant was 92. This year, new courses are designed around the restrictions. The 5km course will head along the beach, while the half marathon and 8.5km course has also been adjusted. Despite the changes, Fleming said organisers were looking forward to bringing people back to the Mount.
“We want to bring the energy back in November to the Mount, to start the summer off the way that hopefully it will continue,” he said.
Run, walk or donate
Wharton said taking part did not require running experience. “You can run, walk, bring your family, get your workmates together or simply make a donation,” she said. “However you take part, you can help make sure that when someone in our community experiences a loss, they have somewhere to turn.” Participants can support GSS by entering the 5km, 8.5km or half marathon and donating during registration, setting an individual fundraising goal, or forming a team with friends, whānau or colleagues.
Connection matters
For Fleming, the event is ultimately about bringing people together. “Health and wellness are about the body and the mind,” he said. “When you can put them both together, then the mind is going to mend much better. That’s why being active is so important to recovering from grief. “This is where the link – the synergy between the two organisations – is absolutely perfect. That’s why we’re proud to be part of it.” For Wharton, the opportunity to stand together as a community since January 22’s tragedy was at the heart of the new partnership. “When people are experiencing grief and loss, connection matters,” she said. The Mitre 10 MEGA Tauranga City to Surf is on November 8. All courses finish at Mount Maunganui Main Beach. Rosalie Liddle Crawford
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TECT Community Trust renamed TECT Community Trust has officially rebranded as Manawa Trust, after more than 30 years. The name, gifted by Ngāti Hangarau, was unveiled this week and signals a new chapter for the organisation, which manages a community fund worth more than $1 billion and invests returns in local people, projects and communities. Manawa, meaning “heart”, reflects the life force that connects people, place and future, while recognising the trust’s origins at Ōmanawa, a media release said. Chief executive Wayne Werder said the new identity better represented the trust’s history and its modern role. “For more than 30 years we’ve invested in the communities of the Western Bay of Plenty. Our role has evolved considerably over that time, but our commitment to this region has never changed. Manawa gives us
a name that honours the beginning of our story, while reflecting who we are today and the responsibility we carry into the future.” The trust’s roots trace back to Ōmanawa Falls, which played a pivotal role in the region’s electricity generation history and helped lay the foundations for TrustPower and TECT. The site also holds deep cultural significance for Ngāti Hangarau. Iwi representative Koro Nicholas said the name carried a strong sense of identity and connection. “The Manawa, the heartbeat, the crux, the ethos of our work is really important for ourselves, for our families, for all the community and for the generations that are to come.” Manawa Trust will continue its work through community funding, partnerships and stewardship of its investment fund. The trust said the new identity was built around a simple idea: being the heartbeat behind a thriving Western Bay of Plenty.
Bupa Te Puke Retirement Village Brand new two bedroom villas coming soon! From $735,000^ Live the life that’s right for you at Bupa Te Puke Retirement Village. You’ll enjoy a lock up and leave lifestyle in a modern, welcoming village that offers both independence and a sense of belonging. We’re excited to announce we have brand new two bedroom villas under development, with the first stage expected to open in December 2026. The new villas will feature a well-designed modern kitchen, open plan living, patio, and garage. • Six month buy-back • Redesigned community centre expected to open early 2027
• Emergency alarm system (monitored off site 24/7) • Care Home on site (subject to availability)
Contact Haley on 07 808 0951 or visit bupa.co.nz/tepuke for more information. Bupa Te Puke Retirement Village | 1 Number 1 Road, Te Puke ^Price is for a licence to occupy under an Occupation Right Agreement.
Disclaimer: Images taken from a similar Bupa site.
T The Weekend Sun Abstract artist Doreen McNeill, 97, preparing for her Young at Art exhibition. Photo / Kelly O’Hara
Still young at art... At 97, Tauranga abstract artist Doreen McNeill is still doing what she loves most – picking up a brush, choosing a colour, making a mark and seeing where it takes her. McNeill’s latest exhibition is at Imprint Gallery at The Historic Village as part of the Young at Heart Festival, celebrating the region’s older community. McNeill named her exhibition Young at Art “because that’s what keeps me young”. It will feature her recent works, including a framed work on recycled brown wrapping paper, large canvases, hanging banners and smaller works on paper and board. She collaborated with local artist Jimi Colzato, who did the sewing and construction for painted tote bags, and a painted vessel.
Meditative
McNeill said the exhibition reflects the increasingly free approach she’d taken to painting. “I’m just getting freer, really,” she said. “I just let it come out.” Rather than starting with an image in mind, McNeill begins with a colour or a mark and allows the painting to evolve. “I just grab a colour and make some marks and see where that goes.” That might mean adding more paint, collage or marks until the work reaches a point where she is happy with it. The process is almost meditative. “You put a few colours down and … it’s more like meditation than anything else.” McNeill works in acrylic, a medium she enjoys because it allows her to keep changing a painting. “If you don’t like something, you paint over it,” she said.
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That freedom is central to her work, which is abstract rather than an attempt to reproduce a particular scene or object. “I don’t try and copy things,” she said. “When you look at an abstract, no matter what I was thinking, you can see whatever you like in it.” McNeill likes her paintings to retain an organic quality, with shapes and marks suggesting rather than defining what the viewer is seeing.
Let loose
She’s produced more than 2000 paintings in her career, with her work finding homes throughout New Zealand and overseas. She’s exhibited extensively, including in galleries around Aotearoa. She also won a Friends of the Gallery Miles Art Award in 2014. Her artistic journey began after a working life that included drafting navigational charts for aircraft – precise work that required accuracy. Painting offered something very different. A turning point came when she attended an abstract class with the Waikato Society of Arts and learned she didn’t need an image as a starting point. Instead, she could work freely while considering the principles of composition and design. “Once I got that it was fine.” While no longer represented by galleries in the main centres, McNeill continued to paint from her Tauranga studio. She hoped exhibition visitors will allow the works to speak to them in their own way. “I hope they find something interesting in them,” she said. Young at Art runs until October 11 at Imprint Gallery.
Tauranga City Council chief quits Tauranga City Council chief executive Marty Grenfell resigned on Tuesday after councillors held an emergency closed-door meeting over the Davison report. The council-commissioned review into the fatal Mount Maunganui landslide, conducted by retired High Court judge Paul Davison, KC, revealed a litany of council failures leading up to the “preventable” disaster. A council statement said Grenfell resigned from his role on September 29 and would finish October 2. It did not say whether his departure was related to the review. Grenfell had faced public calls to resign following the review’s publication last month.
A council meeting agenda said the public would be excluded from the September 29 meeting “to maintain legal professional privilege”. Mayor Mahe Drysdale thanked Grenfell for his contributions. “We respect Mr Grenfell’s decision and thank him for his unwavering commitment to public service in our city over the past eight years,” he said in a statement. “During this time, Mr Grenfell has helped lead Tauranga City Council through periods of significant growth, change, and challenge.” The council would appoint an interim chief executive before recruiting Grenfell’s permanent replacement.
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The Weekend Sun
Friday 2 October 2026
13
Tauranga teen eyes next step in indoor bowls Five years ago, Matthew Spargo was a Year 7 student flicking through a school sports brochure when one sport caught his eye.
The 17-year-old Tauranga Boys’ College student was back at the Zespri AIMS Games last month – but this time on the other side of the mat, umpiring indoor bowls. It’s quite a turnaround for someone who chose the sport almost on a whim. “I just looked on the little brochure that we got at the start of the year with all the sports on it, and I saw that and I thought I’d give it a go,” Spargo said. He was introduced to indoor bowls by Tauranga coaches Marg and Dave Crockett, who’ve coached young players in the community for about 15 years. Spargo quickly discovered he had a talent for the game.
Biggest moments
His first AIMS Games opportunity came in Year 8, when he opted for indoor bowls rather than hockey – and came away with three gold medals, including singles and pairs, and a medal for Tauranga Intermediate’s overall school result. “That’s probably what really hooked me into it,” he said. Since then, Spargo had has won the New Zealand Secondary Schools singles title in successive years and two consecutive New Zealand Year 1-5 pairs titles with his father, William. “One of the biggest moments playing this sport was winning the two national titles with my father,” Spargo said. He has represented Tauranga,
travelled throughout New Zealand for tournaments and played alongside some of the country’s leading indoor bowlers. Another highlight was being asked to play alongside highly decorated New Zealand player Grant L’Ami at this year’s national championships in Palmerston North. “I was extremely honoured,” Spargo said. But the medals were only part of what kept him coming back. “I’ve managed to make so many new friends in bowls,” he said. “It’s a very social sport.” In fact, Spargo met his girlfriend through indoor bowls, and the pair also play together. Crockett said Spargo had been a pleasure to coach virtually from day one, particularly once his talent began to emerge. “He’s just a thoroughly lovely young gentleman,” Crockett said. Focus is a key part of the Crocketts’ coaching philosophy, with players taught to concentrate on their own game and enjoy the sport.
Looking ahead
That focus had helped Spargo become a qualified national umpire, as well as one of the country’s leading young players, he said. Returning to the AIMS Games this year in the umpire role was special. “It’s very cool,” he said. “I’m glad I’ve moved on to playing secondary schools, but I do miss it.” With only one more year of college ahead, Spargo is looking towards the future. He hopes to work towards representing New Zealand at the highest level of indoor bowls, the Mat Blacks,
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Matthew Spargo in his Tauranga representative shirt with his NZ Secondary Schools Singles indoor bowls trophy and his three Aims Games gold medals. Photo / Kelly O’Hara
who compete against Australia in transtasman competitions. Crockett believes Spargo has the potential to reach the top in New Zealand and possibly compete internationally. For now, he is balancing Year 12 studies with a sport that has taken him
around the country – and he hopes other young people will give it a go. “Don’t really just assume that it’s for old people,” he said. “It’s fun. It’s challenging. It’s all mentally challenging, and it can take you all around New Zealand.” Rosalie Liddle Crawford
Friday 2 October 2026
Webinar on H5 bird flu fll
Gulls, gannets, terns and ocean-going seabirds are species considered highly vulnerable to H5 bird flu due to their flocking behaviours.
Bay of plenty residents concerned about H5 bird flu can hear directly from experts leading the New Zealand’s response on a free online webinar next month. Tauranga Moana Biosecurity Capital (TMBC) and Te Tira Whakamātaki (TTW) are co-hosting Understanding the Aotearoa Response to H5 Bird Flu (HPAI H5N1) on October 15. The free webinar comes as H5 bird flu has reached New Zealand shores, prompting increased efforts to protect wildlife, poultry production and public health. The webinar will gather representatives from the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), Department of Conservation (DoC), Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora and Bay of Plenty Regional Council to answer questions about the outbreak and response. MPI deputy chief veterinary officer Maryna Sokolova said in a media release that New Zealand was acting quickly to reduce the impacts of the disease. “It’s important people understand what H5 bird flu is, what it means for New
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Zealand, and the simple steps they can take to protect wildlife, limit spread, and keep safe,” she said. Sokolova said MPI was working closely with government agencies, iwi, industry and local authorities. Topics include the H5 response, how the virus spreads, the risk to humans, what people should do if they find sick or dead birds, and long-term management of the disease. DoC principal adviser Suliana Teasdale will discuss potential impacts on native wildlife and conservation efforts. “Many of our native species are vulnerable to H5 bird flu, and it is vital that New Zealanders understand what to look for,” she said. Other speakers include Biosecurity New Zealand director of avian influenza Angus McKay, Health New Zealand clinical lead for highly pathogenic avian influenza Emma Sherwood and Bay of Plenty Regional Council biosecurity team leader Shane Grayling. The free public webinar is 1pm to 2pm on Thursday, October 15. Register on the Tauranga Moana Biosecurity Capital website at: www.tmbiosecurity.co.nz
BOP airline to receive $2.08 million
Bay of Plenty airline Sunair will receive a $2.08 million Government loan to help fund new aircraft, maintain its fleet and refinance debt. Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Associate Transport Minister James Meager announced the funding today. Their media release said the investment would help secure regional air services across the upper North Island. The loan through the Government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund, could be used to acquire two tw w larger aircraft, essential maintenance work to refinance debt. Jones said Sunair played an important role in connecting regional communities. “Aiirlines such as Sunair are a critical part
of the economic and social fabric of our regions,” he said. The proposed addition of larger aircraft would increase passenger capacity and operational flexibility, and reduce the airline’s reliance on its current fleet of sixseat planes. Tauranga-headquartered Sunair operates flights throughout the upper North Island, serving destinations across Northland, Waikato, BOP, Coromandel, Tairāwhiti and Hawke’s Bay. Many of its routes are not served by other airlines.
Art brings homelessness stories into the open A group art exhibition featuring work by people who have experienced homelessness and their allies will open in Tauranga next month. Supported by Te Paiaka, the exhibition will explore housing struggles and the experiences of people living in and around Tauranga’s CBD. Te Paiaka chair Ani Stace said the exhibition offered another way to challenge misconceptions about
homelessness and help humanise the people behind the issue. The exhibition opens on Thursday, October 8, at 117 Willow Street, Tauranga, and runs until Saturday, October 17. The exhibition is being held alongside Tauranga’s World Homeless Day activities on October 10, which aim to raise awareness of the different forms housing hardship can take and encourage greater understanding and connection within the community.
Around the Rohe New report provides fresh insights into the health of Waihī Estuary
OCTOBER 2026
Shipping Channel
A new report brings together the latest science on Waihī Estuary and the surrounding catchment, helping people better understand the estuary’s health and what is needed to support its recovery. While challenges remain, there are positive signs of progress. Water quality monitoring shows phosphorus levels are improving, and restoration projects are helping reduce contaminants entering the estuary. Recent work includes restoring 30 hectares of coastal wetland, creating new whitebait habitat, and trialling seagrass restoration with iwi and research partners.
Heading out on the water? Know the new rules
The report highlights that continued teamwork between iwi, landowners, community groups and councils will be essential for creating a healthier estuary for future generations.
From 1 October, new Bay of Plenty maritime rules have been introduced to help keep people safe on the water. If you’re boating in the Bay of Plenty, here are the key changes you need to know:
Scan the QR code to learn more.
The new lifejacket rule
Know before you go: Check Clean Dry Certify
Everyone on a recreational craft six metres or less in length must wear a properly fitting lifejacket while underway. This rule applies for any type of recreational craft (including kayaks, paddleboards, dinghies and personal watercraft/jet skis). Vessels over six metres must still carry enough correctly fitting lifejackets for everyone onboard. No anchoring in the Tauranga Harbour shipping channel
Heading to the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes this summer? Rules vary between lakes, but they all help protect these special waterways. If you’re visiting Lake Ōkataina, clean your boat and gear at one of the designated wash stations, then scan the QR code and fill in the form to access the lake gate. For other Rotorua Te Arawa lakes, Check Clean Dry before you arrive and self-certify at the ramp. If your craft has been in the Waikato River within the last 30 days, it must be cleaned at an approved wash station first.
Large ships need plenty of room to manoeuvre and can’t stop quickly. The new rule means no vessel may anchor in the Tauranga shipping channel but it is still possible to fish by drift fishing or using a trolling motor. The channel includes No 1 Reach, No 2 Reach, the Cutter Channel, Maunganui Roads and Stella Passage. Scan the QR code to read the full technical details of all new and existing Bay of Plenty Regional Navigation Safety Bylaw 2024.
For regional self-certification rules and Check Clean Dry information, visit www.boprc.govt.nz/self-certification
VISIT: Regional House (Tauranga), Rotorua and Whakatāne offices PHONE: 0800 884 880 EMAIL: info@boprc.govt.nz
Working together to help people and places thrive.
Find out more at www.boprc.govt.nz
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ROLEX SEA-DWELLER
ROLEX SUBMARINER
ROLEX EXPLORER
OMEGA SEAMASTER
NZ & UK pre 1947 / Aus pre 1966 / USA pre 1965
SEIKO OMEGA SPEEDMASTER DIVERS AUTO
OLD MECHANICAL WATCHES any condition for parts (no quartz please)
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GOLD OR SILVER TROPHIES Racing, Sporting, Presentation (No silver plate or EPNS please)
Do you have any of these o or similar items for sale? Downsizing, ns Moving or Decluttering? Family not interested? Please see us at one of our convenient venues listed below! Our friendly buyers are keen to make you an offer. *Immediate payment made *No commission or waiting *Free no obligation appraisal *Please have your Photo ID & your bank details handy
SATURDAY 10 OCTOBER
SUNDAY 11 OCTOBER
GREERTON 10:00amto11:30am GreertonCommunityHall 1257CameronRoad
PAPAMOA 10:00amto11:30 am PapamoaLibrary 15GravattRoad
KATIKATI 12:30pmto2:00pm WarMemorialHallLounge 29MainRoad
MOUNTMAUNGANUI 12:00NOONto1:00pm SeniorCitizensHall 345MaunganuiRoad
OMOKOROA 3:00pmto4:30pm OmokoroaPavillionCommunityCentre 28WesternAvenue
BETHLEHEM 2:30pmto4:00pm BethlehemCommunityHall 239StateHighway2 g y
MONDAY 12 OCTOBER TAURANGACENTRAL 10:00amto11:00 am StEnoch’sPresbyterianChurch 134SixteenthAvenue
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1:30 pmto2:30pm StAndrew’sAnglicanChurch 91TitiraupengaStreet
PRIVATE HOUSE CALLS After the final venue on each day If you’re unable to attend a venue - we can come to you! Please ring or text us to secure a booking on 027 446 6190 Goldco Int’l Ltd | Member NZNDA | www.goldco.co.nz | email: goldco@xtra.co.nz | Ph: 027 446 6190
The Weekend Sun
Friday 2 October 2026
17
Steamers farewell key players in final fii home game Th The B d Bay off Pl Plenty SSteamers need two other NPC teams to win their games tomorrow, and collect five points when they take on North Harbour at home on Sunday, to secure a place in the top eight. This means Steamers fans will be avidly watching the telly tomorrow, because Waikato must beat Tasman and Canterbury must beat Manawatū to keep BOP’s playoff hopes alive, and to get a shot at top 8 in their last Tauranga home game. The Steamers face North Harbour at Tauranga Domain at 4.35pm – the final team to play in the regular season – and need to collect five points. The Steamers had an important 32-17 home victory over Hawke’s Bay at Tauranga Domain on September 19, but were unable to build on that result, losing 45-26 to Tasman at Trafalgar Park five days later.
Final opportunity
Bay of Plenty head coach Richard Watt has previously emphasised the importance of reducing errors and
lti as the th Steamers St h ffor a penalties push playoff spot. The team showed improved discipline and ball control against Hawke’s Bay but struggled to maintain that momentum against Tasman, he said. Come Sunday, the Steamers may have one final opportunity to make their mark. Watt said North Harbour had been “on fire” and had shown throughout the season that they were prepared to play brave, hard rugby. Despite the playoff equation dependent on results elsewhere, Watt said the Steamers could only concentrate on their own preparation. “We can only train and prepare for the game. We’re still alive, but we need to play well and score four tries, so we’ve got to play.”
Significance
However, whatever happened Saturday, the Steamers’ Sunday match carried significance beyond the playoff race. Watt said the game would be the final Tauranga Domain appearance for several players who’d made a significant
t ib ti tto B t ru ugby. b contribution Bay off Pl Plenty Steamers captain Kurt Eklund d and Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi are in th heir last season for the province, while Reon Paul, Cole Forbes and Lucas Caashmore will head to Japan. Eklund, Forbes and Tahurioraangi have all passed the 50-game maark for Bay of Plenty, Watt said. “It’s their last Bay of Plenty Stteamers game at the Tauranga Domain. “That’s significant. They have been great servants of the jersey and th he province.” The Steamers’ 2026 campaign n also marked 50 years since BOP won the NPC title in 1976, adding anotther layer of significance to the seasoon. BOP Steamers fans can watch h Canterbury versus Manawatu liive on TV at 2.05pm on October 3, an nd Waikato versus Tasman at 7.10p pm that night on TVNZ channels. On Sunday, October 4, Bayy of Plenty play North Harbour at Tauraangga Domain. Kick-off is 4.35pm m. Watch live on TVNZ or purchase gam me tickets online from Flicket. Rosalie Liddlle Crawford
Meet playful Blizz
Blizz and Johnny found themselves in a bit of a sticky situation. That was until one of our amazing SPCA team members scooped them up and brought them into the shelter. The pups are now 2 months old d. Since then, Blizz and Johnny have been enjoying life in foster care together. They’ve met the grandkids, explored the great outdoors and discovered just how good it feels to have grass between their toes. Blizz is learning to love the water, but when it comess to grass he prefers it be nicely warmed by the sun, thank you very much! Of the two pups, Blizz is definitely the leader. Johnny is more than happy to follow Blizz and see what adventures he has planned. A young pup, Blizz has plenty of energy and will benefit from some ongoing training, guidance and positive encouragement. He’s playful, curious and ready to take on the world with his very own human by his side. If you’re looking for a best mate, adventure buddy
Bay of Plenty Steamers beat Hawke’s Bay 32-17 this season, winning Battle of the Bays at Tauranga Domain. Photo / Bay of Plenty Rugby Union
For Bay of Plenty Veterans Meet face-to-face with Veterans’ Affairs on 14 October, at the Lion Foundation Centre, at the Mercury Baypark. Come along, bring your whānau, and check that you are getting all the support that you are entitled to. The Veterans’ Affairs Bay of Plenty Veterans’ Forum from 10:00am to 2:00pm, Wednesday 14 October. Lion Foundation Centre, Mercury Baypark, 81 Truman Lane, Mount Maunganui. Free to attend, register at www.veteransaffairs.mil.nz
and loyal little sidekick, Blizz could be your man! Phone Tauranga SPCA on 07 5780245. Ref: 674376.
Churches Active In Our Community
Our foundations can be restored
70 Pooles Rd Greerton (St James) Find real hope, peace & strength in Christ www.churchofgodslove.com
We don’t have to look too far into the core of today’s societyy to see the depth of moral decline that’s happened since those early days. It’s true what the Bible says, “Ri Righteousness i (moral and spiritual integrityy and virtuous character) exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people. Proverbs 14:24 (Amplified Bible)”. But, there’s good news. Our foundations can be restored. We can honour, recognise and affirm our heritage and history. In spite of our sin, and our turning away from God, He still loves us deeply. That’s why He sent His Son Jesus to rescue us. People all over Aotearoa are finding the wonder and credibilityy of the rescuer and the realityy
of the Gospel message that’s undeniably woven into the fabric of our great nation’s history.
Stephen Whitwell, C3 City Church
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Enquiries 022 632 5957
LIVING WELL CHURCH PAPAMOA
Frankllin Graham, son of well-known evangelist Billy Graham, said the following after a trip to New Zealand in 2022 (ww www ww.billygraham.org). w “The land is breathtakingly beautiful and the people are warm and friendly – but the Spiritual emptiness there is overwhelming. “By some estimates, New Zealand is one of the least religious countries on earth.” He went on to say: “the nation is a highly secular island nation”. This is very sad. It describes how far we have come from our Godly Christian history and heritage. The foundation stones of our nation were built upon Christian values and Biblical principles.
Service: 10.30am Saturdays
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021 768 043
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EVANS RD COMMUNITY CHURCH, PAPAMOA 30 Evans Road Phone 027 276 6868 www.evansroadchurch.org g 10am Family Service
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Cnr Macville Rd & Dee St, Mt Maunganui. Phone 575 9347 www.mountchurch.org.nz Rev Douglas Bradley 10am Family Service
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Friday 2 October 2026
The Weekend Sun
18
Memories on canvas...
Local people’s memories and milestones have been brought to life via paint and creativity in Dementia Tauranga’s third annual Artful Mind exhibition. On show at The People’s Gallery in Tauranga’s Historic Village, the exhibition pairs six local artists with people living with dementia, turning
Middleton’s memories. their stories, experiences and passions into original artworks. Copeland said the project is Among the stories is that of meaningful for clients and artists Ian Middleton, who loved the alike. “It is great brain exercise for outdoors, walking the Milford the artists thinking how they can Track and married his wife meaningfully capture the client in Maureen at St Paul’s Methodist a composition,” she said. Church in 1966. “When the work is for sale and Tauranga artist and geriatric not for the client, it adds another psychiatrist Dr Bronwyn layer of complexity, as it has to be Copeland brought those two generic enough to work in other significant places together people’s homes but also true to the in a painting inspired by individual’s story and this was one of the challenges with Ian’s piece.” Artists involved in 2026’s exhibition include Copeland, Steph Harlan, Anne Shirley, Lynette Fisher, Jayna Caudwell and Laura Penny.
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Dementia Tauranga chief executive Glenn Bradley said each artwork provides opportunity to connect with the person and the
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story behind their diagnosis. The Middleton painting by Copeland will be offered via silent auction. Proceeds will go to Dementia Tauranga’s community services. Artful Mind is open 10am-3pm daily until October 17.
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St Paul’s Methodist Church and Milford Track were depicted in Dr Bronwyn Copeland’s painting of Ian Middleton’s story. Photo / Supplied
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learning about experiences and relationships that shaped their lives. For Copeland, who is a geriatric psychiatrist and an artist, the project brought together two important parts of her professional and creative life. “Art can be so powerful and meaningful. This project elevates art to something more than beauty – it captures meaning, tells a story and leaves a legacy and is a blessing to all involved,” she said.
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The Weekend Sun
19
Friday 2 October 2026
Rotary checks AEDs to help save lives Tauranga Rotary volunteers are hitting the streets to make sure defibrillators can be found when every second counts.
Members of Rotary Tauranga, Rotary Tauranga Te Papa and Rotary Pāpāmoa are working with Hato Hone St John to check the location and details of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) across the city. The project began as a pilot more than two years ago between Rotary Tauranga T and d Hato H Hone H St S John J h Tauranga T Area Committee.
It is now being expanded to a wider area, with volunteers checking the information for AEDs already listed on the 111-emergency database, identifying devices not yet recorded and highlighting areas where a publicly accessible 24/7 AED could benefit the community. Keeping the information up to date could make a crucial difference during an emergency, said Rotarian Alan Hitchcock. “The aim is to ensure information held on the 111 emergency database remains accurate and current so that
Rotary Tauranga Te Papa members Sheena Spittles and Alan Hitchcock checking the publicly accessible 24/7 AE ED unit outside Merivale Community Centre. Photo / Supplied
emergency operators can direct first St John’s Three Steps for Life schools and organisations responders to nearby AEDs when programme – a free one-hour covering CPR and AED use. they are needed most,” he said. session for community groups, Rosalie Liddle Crawford An AED delivers an electric shock to a person experiencing Where is your nearest AED? sudden cardiac arrest, helping to restore a normal heart rhythm. Would you know where to find your nearest AED if “Using a defibrillator can someone suffered a cardiac arrest? In an emergency, call 111 for an ambulance to be sent and to find out where significantly increase a person’s the nearest AED to you is, start CPR, and if instructed to, chance of survival,” Hitchcock said. send someone to get an AED if one is nearby. The device He said the project was about provides voice instructions to guide the user. making sure information about this lifesaving equipment was known and accessible. “It’s a practical example of local volunteers working together to improve community resilience and potentially save lives,” he said. Volunteers will check AED information every 12 months and pass updated details back to Hato Hone St John so the 111 database remains current. Same expert advice. The volunteers will be identifiable by Hato Hone St John Same quality service. jackets and identification while Different name & address. carrying out checks. One of the AED’s pieces of Tauranga Audiology is now: information recently checked by Rotary Tauranga Te Papa members Sheena Spittles and Hitchcock is at a publicly accessible 24/7 unit outside 07 577 6712 Merivale Community Centre. 138 Fraser Street, Tauranga The volunteers can also provide boutiqueaudiology.co.nz information about Hato Hone
How to grow true contentment “If you imagine that your happiness depends on what somebody else does, you have a problem” – Richard Bach
When we place our happiness entirely in another person’s hands, we give away our own freedom. Other people can influence our lives, but they can’t be responsible for our inner peace. Healthy relationships are built on love and connection, not dependence on someone else meeting all our expectations. True contentment can grow when we learn to foster gratitude,
resilience and acceptance within ourselves. We can appreciate others without making them responsible for our happiness. Have I given someone else too much power over my peace?
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Friday 2 October 2026
More to clubs than you think
Once you’re out of high school, retiring from the workforce, moved towns, or maybe just want a new challenge, meeting new people can be really tough. We all need socialisation but getting yourself out there can be scary and sometimes it’s hard to know whether the risk is worth the reward. But there are plenty of benefits to joining a local club! Joining a club will help you connect with like-minded people who enjoy the same things you do. There are plenty of clubs throughout the Bay of Plenty with a range of interests – so you’re bound to
The Weekend Sun
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find one that tickles your fancy. Clubs are also a fantastic way of getting out there and trying new things. We all know it can be easier to try something new when you’re not alone, and clubs are a great support system. Clubs are also a great way of learning new skills or honing your existing talents. Feedback from people who enjoy the same things as you can go a long way when it comes to growing and developing. Clubs can help grow your confidence. They’re a great way to skip the small talk and launch right in to chatting about things you all enjoy. So what are you waiting for?
Telescopes at the Tauranga Observatory in Fergusson Park. Photo / Supplied
Your invitation to look up! What’s that bright object in the sky? Is it a planet, a star or something much further away?
If questions like these have ever crossed your mind, the Tauranga Astronomical Society could be the club for you. You don’t have to be an astronomer, own a telescope or know the difference between Saturn and Sirius. The society welcomes anyone with an interest in the night sky, from curious beginners to experienced observers. Based at the Ōtūmoetai Sports & Recreation Club building at Fergusson Park in Matua, the society holds regular meetings featuring interesting talks and discussions about astronomy. And when the weather cooperates, the real magic begins: members and visitors can look through telescopes and see the Moon, planets, stars and other fascinating objects for themselves.
WHY PLAY CROQUET??
Have you always been curious about the mysteries of Croquet - how about you come and give it a go. Bring the family, bring a friend. Playing croquet offers a unique blend of physical, activity, strategic thinking and social interaction whether you play Association Croquet or Golf Croquet. • PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: Croquet involves continuous movement, which can improver cardiovascular heath, increase flexibility and enhance muscle strength. • SOCIAL INTERACTION; The game is played by people of all ages and genders, fostering sense of community and camaraderie. • STRATEGIC THINKING: Croquet requires players to think strategically as they plan their moves to outmaneuver their opponent. Croquet is not only a fun and entertaining outdoor activity but also a fantastic way to stay active and have fun while enjoying some friendly competition. Golf Croquet is generally more interactive
and takes less time to learn than the more strategic game of Association. Many players learn the basics of the skills needed by playing Golf Croquet before moving on to play Association Croquet. The Bay of Plenty Croquet Association are hosting Have a Go Days on October 9th, 10th and 11th at Croquet Mount Maunganui and Tauranga Croquet Clubs between 11am & 1pm and welcome you to come along and Give Croquet a Go. For more information phone 0274 819 478 or go to croquetbop.nz.
Thee roof of the Ōtūmoetai Sports & Th Recreation Club building slides to reveal the Tauranga Observatory. Photo / Supplied
The society also spreads the love of astronomy into the community, helping schools, families and community groups discover what’s happening above us. Members can learn about observing, improve their telescope skills and share their enthusiasm with others. Regular public meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm, and visitors are welcome. So, if you’ve ever looked up at a clear Tauranga night and thought, “I wonder what’s out there?”, why not come along? The universe is waiting. For more information go to: tas.org.nz Rosalie Liddle Crawford
" ! !& ! & ! ! " ! # $ ! # ! " # ! ! ' " $ ! % # ! & ! ! ! " " ! & " ! ! % ! ! ! # # " ! " " ! $ & ! ! # ! ! ! $ # ! ! " ! "! ! " # ! " ! $
Find a sport or recreation activity for you. SPORTBOP.CO.NZ
The Weekend Sun
Friday 2 October 2026
21
The joys off colllectiing stamps and coins on show! The boost Two of the world’s oldest and most of book clubs rewarding hobbies – stamp and coin Reading books is a popular hobby for many. But why do some bookworms turn the page and attend a regular book club?
Apparently, book clubs are great for people’s mental health and wellbeing. It’s a chance to meet new people and reduce loneliness via regular social contact with others. Talking through ideas and sharing opinions helps to lower stress and anxiety. Through communicating with others, you also build your selfconfidence. Book clubs generate other benefits as well. Reading a book each month, then putting a day aside to talk about it is a commitment. This builds accountability. Book clubs broaden horizons because you discover genre and themes you’d never pick up on your own. This means you’ll read more than what’s majorly advertised. In turn, this will boost your knowledge! Hearing how others interpret a story challenges your assumptions, deepens your empathy and ultimately expands your perspectives. So there you go – book clubs can work wonders. For anyone. Whether they’re interested in reading or not.
collecting – will be on display in Tauranga this month.
Tauranga & District Stamp Club’s Stamp and Coin Fair will be held at the Wesley Methodist Church on October 10 from 9am to 3pm, with help from the Tauranga Numismatic Society. The fair will open the door to the wide and wonderful world of philately – the study and collection of stamps – and numismatics – the study and collection of coins and currency. “There’s a particular thrill in holding a small object that has travelled through decades, changed hands dozens of times, and somehow survived to reach you intact,” Tauranga Numismatic Society’s Rick Peers said. “That's the enduring appeal of stamp and coin collecting!” He said philately is as much about history and art as it is about postage. “Every stamp is a tiny canvas commemorating a monarch, a war, a scientific discovery, or a national milestone.” Beyond their visual charm, stamps can carry genuine philatelic value that has Photo / Supplied nothing to do with their printed face value, he said. “Rarity, printing errors, and limited runs are what drive this value. A stamp printed with an inverted image, a missing colour, or an incorrect perforation can be worth thousands of times its original price – the famous ‘Inverted Jenny’ 24-cent from the United States is perhaps the best-known example, but New Zealand has its own prized rarities among early Chalon Heads and pictorial issues.” Peers said condition matters enormously too. “An unused stamp with original gum and crisp perforations will always outvalue a worn, heavily postmarked equivalent. “First-day covers, complete sheets, and stamps with clear, legible postmarks from significant dates also attract keen collector interest.”
Book Clubs, for Book Lovers
A
t Book Club, we believe that every great story deserves more than one life. What began as a shared love of books has grown into a warm and welcoming community where stories are passed from reader to reader, sparking conversations, friendships and new discoveries along the way. Nestled in the heart of Tauranga, Book Club gives pre-loved books a second chance to be enjoyed, making reading more affordable, sustainable and accessible for everyone. Our carefully curated shelves are filled with treasures waiting to be discovered, whether you’re searching for a favourite author, your next book club read or an unexpected literary gem. But Book Club is much more than a bookshop. It’s a place where people gather, connect and share their passion for reading. We support local book clubs by sourcing titles, hosting events and providing a space where readers can come together. From author talks and silent book clubs to lively discussions over coffee, there’s always something happening. Every book has a story, and so does every reader. At Book Club, we’re proud to bring them together.
Come for the coffee, stay for the books 77 Devonport Road, Tauranga Ph-022-184-9415 | www.bookclub.org.nz
Tauranga District Stamp Club president Ross Haycock and secretary Brian Ducker inspecting some beautiful stamps. Photo / File As for numismatics – it offers a fascinating dual appeal, because a coin can carry value in two entirely different ways, Peers said. “The first is numismatic value: what collectors will pay based on rarity, historical significance, mint marks, striking errors, and condition. “A coin’s grade – how well it has survived wear and handling – can make an enormous difference. The same coin in ‘uncirculated’ condition might be worth many times more than one that’s been jangling in pockets for 50 years. “Limited mintages, commemorative issues, and coins from short-lived currencies or transitional periods are particularly sought-after.” The second is base or intrinsic metal value – this is simply what the coin’s raw silver, gold, Photo / Supplied copper, or nickel content would fetch if melted down. “Pre-1946 New Zealand and British coins, for instance, were struck in silver, meaning even a common, well-worn shilling or florin carries real value purely from its metal content, regardless of any collector premium. “This is a helpful starting point for
beginners: even coins with no numismatic rarity can still be worth holding onto simply for what they’re made of.” Peers said collecting stamps and coins rewards curiosity – and that is why the hobby ensures. “It teaches history, geography, art, and economics almost by accident, and connects generations – many collectors inherited their first album or coin folder from a parent or grandparent. “It’s also refreshingly accessible: you can begin with a handful of coins from your change jar or stamps soaked off old letters, and grow a collection as your knowledge and interest develop.” Tauranga & District Stamp Club’s David Stafford said whether you’re a lifelong collector or simply curious about where to start, the Tauranga Stamp and Coin Fair is the perfect place to browse, buy, sell, and swap. “Dealers and enthusiasts will be on hand all day with expertise, bargains, and the kind of stories that make this hobby so addictive.” The fair will be held at the Wesley Methodist Church on October 10 from 9am to 3pm.
Friday 2 October 2026
Te Ao Mārama Tauranga Library and Community Hub’s Community Celebration is on October 17. Photo / Supplied
Community celebration day to mark new library opening Te Ao Mārama Tauranga Library and Community Hub will open its doors later this month, with a dawn blessing and civic ceremony on Friday, October 16, followed by a Community Celebration Day on Saturday, October 17. Library Manager Joanna Thomas said the day will give the community a chance to experience the new library, with a free programme of activities and entertainment for all ages. “There’s something happening throughout the day, whether you want to hear from an author, enjoy a performance, try something creative or just explore the new spaces,” she said. “We’re really looking forward to welcoming the community and seeing the library filled with people.” Event highlights will include a performance
The Weekend Sun
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by celebrated children’s author Craig Smith, a showcase of the Creation Station, LEGO displays and activities from Bricks of Plenty, and a conversation with VJ Cooks founder Vanya Insull. Visitors can also enjoy cultural performances, live music, crafts, guided library tours, see cranes and diggers up close and take part in activities for children and teenagers. The Community Celebration Day will run from 10am to 4pm, with Smith’s ticketed show beginning at 9.30am. The new library is the first building to open as part of Te Manawataki o Te Papa, returning to its original home on the corner of Willow and Wharf streets, where the previous library stood before it was demolished in 2022. The full Community Celebration Day programme is available at: whatsontauranga. co.nz.
The caretaker is If your children know Jeremy Hantler when they see him at the supermarket, there’s a good chance they’ll recognise him when he turns up at Baycourt Theatre next Saturday – although he’ll be wearing overalls.
The Tauranga primary school teacher, musician, MC, Harmonic Resonators frontman and selfprofessed “most waved-at-person in the supermarket” is taking on a new role as the caretaker in Opus Orchestra’s family concert, The Caretaker’s Guide to the Orchestra, on October 10. “He guides the children through the various parts of the orchestra,” Hantler said. His borrowed caretaker’s outfit is ready, and so is the plan to introduce the audience to the different sections of the orchestra, bringing the instruments and their sounds to life through storytelling, humour, choreography and audience participation. There will also be a New Zealand Sign Language interpreter to enhance the delivery for those hard of hearing. “I’ve been contracted to make this show for all ages super
accessible,” he said. That makes Hantler a natural fit for the role. As a familiar face at local schools both online through his Mr Hantler YouTube Channel, and co-directing the Tauranga Primary Schools Music Festival and as MC for Tauranga’s Children’s Day and various events, he already has plenty of experience getting kids involved in things. The Harmonic Resonators’ latest children’s album is popular locally, while Hantler’s work as an educator means he knows how to keep a young audience entertained. “The setlist is spot on – exciting, diverse, and there’s even a tune many tamariki [children] will recognise from ‘grow a garden’ in Roblox,” Hantler said. After the first half, Hantler will shed his caretaker persona and return as himself, helping guide audiences through music by Debussy, Copland, Grieg and Sarasate. And when the final note sounds, children can “storm the stage” to meet the musicians and get a closer look at the instruments. Hantler may be a drummer by trade – he has a degree in jazz drumming – but for this concert, he won’t be playing a single instrument.
Community Celebration Day Come and explore the new library and community hub at Te Manawataki o Te Papa. Join the fun with a day of free live performances, author talks, guided tours, crafts, cultural experiences, tech demos and hands-on activities for all ages. Saturday 17 October 10am - 4pm 95 Willow Street, Tauranga See the full programme at whatsontauranga.co.nz
The Weekend Sun
Friday 2 October 2026
23
Make your steps count! comingg to Baycourt y His job is simply to open o the door to the orchestra and a invite Tauranga’s tamariki insside. The Caretaker’s Guidee to the Orchestra is at Baycourrt Theatre on October 10 from 3pm to 4.30pm, and also in Hamilton on October 9 and Rotorua on October 11. Tickets are for sale via Eventfinda, with family discounts available. Thanks to Opus Orchestra, The Weekend Sun has two double passes to the Tauranga show at Baycourt give away to two lucky readers who can tell us the name of the caretaker? Enter online at www.sunlive.co.nz by Tuesday, October 6.
Jeremy Hantler willl play the role of caretaker in The Caretaker’s Guide to the orchestra at Baycou urt on October 10. Photo / Suupplied
What if 30 walks could help make a difference for thousands of people in our community?
Fruish said the organisation’s work reaches well beyond food rescue and redistribution of food to organisations who help people in need. That’s the idea behind The Good “Our volunteers also help provide Walk 2026, a simple October challenge practical assistance, community meals, supporting Tauranga-based Good firewood, showers and laundry facilities, Neighbour and the remarkable work it social support, youth programmes, does across the Bay and help with of Plenty. community The challenge is gardens,” she said. straightforward: “The Good complete 30 laps Walk is a big push during 30 days. encouraging people You can walk on to donate to Good your own, with Neighbour or they friends, family, can sign up and do workmates or as the walk anywhere part of a team, and – on their own, in raise sponsorship their local area, or along the way. And with friends.” if walking isn’t your The month thing, you can still culminates in get behind the a Community cause by sponsoring Celebration Walk at someone or making Coronation Park on a direct donation. Saturday, October Good Neighbour The community is encouraged to sign 31. “We will have event manager up to The Good Walk 2026 supporting a sausage sizzle and Hayley Fruish said Good Neighbour. Photo / Supplied entertainment from there’s a particularly 10am-12pm, along with one final walk welcome incentive to the challenge. “Every dollar raised will be matched by around Pilot Bay and Main Beach back to Coronation Park.” the event’s sponsors – Tauranga ITM, This October, why not sign up, donate Holland Beckett Lawyers, Ryans Double or sponsor someone at goodneighbour. Glazing – meaning donations can go co.nz/thegoodwalk26 twice as far.”
Family Concert
The Caretaker’s Guide to the Orchestra Sat 10 OCT, 3pm Baycourt, Tauranga
BOOK: eventf inda.co.nz
WALK FOR GOOD THIS OCTOBER! Join hundreds of locals taking on The Good Walk this October! Walk 30 laps in your local area and fundraise for Good Neighbour. Every dollar raised helps us provide food, practical support and connection to people in our community who need it most. For more information visit www.goodneighbour.co.nz/thegoodwalk26
Registdeornaotre!
Friday 2 October 2026
The Weekend Sun
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October’s musical calendar October’s a bit of an in-between month.
Across No. 2003 7. Singer, songwriter 6. Weapons (4) (5,7) 11. Racecourse (NI) (8) 13. Early form of plastic 8. Failure (6) (8) 9. Musician (6) 10. Condiment (7) 14. Herb (7) 17. Dockets (5) 12. Wounds (5) 19. Lanky (4) 15. Stench (5) 16. Lake (SI) (7) 21. Nervous (4) C O N B E P T L I C A V H 18. Fasten (6) A L E E T A M A H O R I M 20. Beach (NI) (6) S E U F E R L UM A T G S 22. Unimportant peo- T A P U E D O N A T I O N ple (12) E S D D D O G C X E M U T T E N D O N G H AWE R A Down Y E L L OWG T O I A T O 1. Improved (8) A S S E S S G L O N E L Y A Q T A I I G E T D I I K 2. Fluster (inf) (4) D U R V I L L E I F I V E 3. Colour (7) Z A P E E V I W I A O I K 4. Plump (5) AWH I T E T A I L E D M 5. Masquerader (8) F K T N E R E Y O L T E R Solution 2002
I can’t think of any notable poetic musings on it aside from a childhood memory of Anne of Green Gables saying, “I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers”. Even to a child being read a bedtime story that seemed a fatuous thing to say. These days my thoughts of October mainly run to a silent scream of, “three-quarters of the year gone already? Seriously?” But October is the month the musical calendar starts picking up again and there’s a diverse range of music popping up in the Tauranga area, some really cool stuff we’re lucky to see in a city that sometimes gets g skipped pp on the touring circuit. It climaxes in the last 10 days of the month, when the
Louis Baker.
Photo / Ashley Alexander
Tauranga Arts Festival takes centre stage. Some shows have already sold out, but there are five musical acts that attract me. Exact times for them are on the festival website.
Worthwhile opinions
at the Historic Village on October 24. Many bands will join him there: so far I hear Cat Face, Mike Garner, Edward Gein, and Dani VR. Updates as we go...
Premier classical pianist Michael Houstoun is playing music from French composers at Baycourt with Satirical songs ambient soundscape accompaniment On October 16, Andrew London’s from Ambient Ousia, the musical duo will be at Katikati’s Arts partnership of Jack Hooker and John Junction for the folk club. He has Psathas. And I’m interested in hearing a most excellent new Jon Toogood, former album, Set Me Up By Shihadist and author The Bar, so expect a of the memoir Home fresh bunch of swinging Again, talking with satirical songs and Karl Puschmann. He’s laughs, since he’s always got worthwhile considered at least three opinions and has times wittier than the walked the walk for a average witty person. long time now. Aussie bluesman Wellington soul Shaun Kirk hits Totara singer Louis Baker is St on October 22, playing at Totara St, but possibly the most more like a regular exciting October shows gig than an art are in extreme territory: festival event but he’s October 30, at Totara St well worth it, while Jon Toogood’s memoir again, it’s the legendary, Jamaican Canadian Home Again. Photo / Supplied and I actually mean Duane Forrest brings legendary, Seattle band Mudhoney. what’s definitely a show – from OffGenuine grunge royalty indeed. Broadway and the Edinburgh Fringe Then on October 31 at Ōkahukura – exploring Bob Marley’s life and on Grey St, insane Italian industrialinfluence through story and song. It metal-goth-punk-techno-noise band comes with great word of mouth. OvO finish their New Zealand tour Hats off to the festival for with support from locals HOICK, spreading things around, with Threat.Meet.Protocol and Flogging A Forrest performing in Katikati and Dead One Horse Town. Te Puke as well as Tauranga. Also peripatetic is Li’l Chuck The One Man Skiffle Machine, who’ll be at Baycourt and Ōmokoroa as well as making an appearance at Tauranga Fringe Festival, which takes place
Hear Winston’s Latest Playlist Scan the QR code, or visit:
www.tinyurl.com/3dbstdmv
Kids – have a swing at baseball in Bellevue!
Western Bay and Tauranga kids are invited to play tee-ball and softball in Term 4. Western Bay of Plenty Softball Association is running 60-minute Saturday morning games for three ages groups at Carlton Ballpark, 412 Ngatai Rd, Bellevue. Under-8s Tee-ball begins
MEDIUM
SUDOKU
4 7 5 3 8 5 6 7 6 2 4 8 2 9 7 5 4 1 2 3 How to solve Sudoku!
Fill the grid so that every row and every 3x3 square contains the digits 1 to 9
No.2358
1
3 5 2 8 3 1 6
Solution No.2357
6 5 7 4 2 9 8 1 3 1 3 2 7 9 8 5 6 4 2 4 5 9 8 6 3 7 1
8 2 1 3 5 7 9 6 4 5 7 6 4 3 2 1 9 8 6 1 9 7 4 3 2 8 5
3 4 9 1 8 6 7 2 5 4 9 8 6 5 1 2 3 7 8 7 3 5 1 2 9 6 4
9am, Under-11s Diamond ball play at 10am, and Under-14s softball/baseball start 11am. The club will host have a go days on October 18 and 25 from 10am-midday. Register for a team or find out more at: www.sporty.co.nz/wbopsoftball
Kids’ fishing comp on the waterfront
If you need to keep the kids busy next weekend, get along to The Junior Fishing Frenzy on October 10 at Tauranga Waterfront. Tauranga Fish and Dive Club is hosting the fishing competition, sponsored by Tauranga City Council, for young anglers aged 12 and under of all skill levels. Kids can fish from Coronation Pier and the surrounding waterfront parks between 7am and 1pm to reel in a share of more than $5000 in prizes. Competition categories include kahawai, Trevally and wharf fish, with plenty of spot prizes to win throughout the day. The competition has limited paces, available. Entry is $10 per kid at: tinyurl.com/JnrFishFrenzy
The Weekend Sun
25
Friday 2 October 2026
THE WEEKEND SUN
Saturday 3 October
Memorial Park. Learners welcome. Contact Jill 027 476 9440 or 543 0390
Road, 11am-12. Strength & balance classes for older adults, all levels of fitness welcome. Contact Sharnie 021 111 8617
9.30am start at Club Mt Maunganui, 45 Kawaka St. Visitors & new players welcome. Ph. Peter 574 9232
ŌtanewainukuKiwiTrust: Public Meeting
Korero with kawhe Join us Tuesday mornings for coffee and
Tauranga Midweek Tramping Group Mt Te Aroha summit up and down. T Crossing. Mod/hard. Ian 021 030 5810
Let’s Learn Something New An A-Z of Clubs, Courses &
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
Association Croquet On Sat, Mon, & Wed. 9.15am for
Bay Singles Social Group Join a bunch of over 50’s young
singles. Weekend dinners, pot-lucks, occasional outings. Have a go! Ph Lorna 027 427 5635, Andrea 021 133 0313
Beth-El Messianic Family Celebrate Shabbat (Sabbath) as
did Messiah Yeshua (Jesus), his disciples and early believers. All welcome. Lifezone 7 Oaklane Judea 10am or Youtube Live @10am. Joel 021 768 043 info@bethel.org.nz
Free Repair Cafe Tauranga Volunteers come together and fix objects destined for landfill for free. @basestation Durham street, Tauranga. Last Saturday of 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.
Ōtanewainuku Kiwi Trust are hosting a special evening to celebrate the conservation community in their Public Meeting. Tauranga Yacht Club, 7pm.
Pāpāmoa Family History Group It’s Family History Month
- come and join us to learn how to research your whakapapa. Tahora Room, Pāpāmoa Library, 10am August 10.
Papamoa Mah jong Papamoa Mah jong 12.15pm - 4.00pm
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
Tauranga Woodcrafters Guild Hobbyist woodworkers.
New members welcomed and coached. Mornings. Carving Mondays, Turning Tues, Scrollsaw Wed, Woodcraft/Open workshops Thurs &Sat. Some other sessions. Details on website https://taurangawoodcrafters.org
Scottish Country Dance Club Scottish Country Dancing
every Monday 7.15-9.30pm St Johns Church Hall 94 Bureta Road. Everyone welcome for fun, friendship and fitness Ph Bruce 021 630 529 nights on a Monday. 7pm to 9pm for Snr Band. Jnr band from 5:30 to 7pm. Contact Jeremy 021 132 3341
Tauranga South Mahjong Club Come and join Us! Mondays
12.30-4 pm at Memorial Park. Lessons available. Ph: 027 5327 3388 Ingrid
Tauranga Theatre Organ Society Meet at Baycourt Theatre at 1.00pm. Hear and play Tauranga’s historic Wurlitzer organ. All welcome, no charge. Ph 552 0243 Tauranga Vision Club Tauranga Vision Club (affiliated to
Sunday 4 October
Friendship NZ) meets 4th Monday each month at Tauranga Citz Club 10 am - noon. New members welcome. Ph Jim 022 088 7760
Welcome Bay Hall, 1-4pm, $4.00pp, afternoon tea supplied, everyone welcome to an afternoon of evergreen music. Ph Joy 027 285 3093
Te Puke Community Menz Shed 48 Cameron Road, Te
Accordion Music Group Every third Sunday of the month,
Falun Dafa Easy Exercises It’s Springtime - Update yourself with mind /body practice. Always free. https://en.falundafa. org/falun-dafa-global-contacts.html#Oceania Call/text Judy 021 0425 398.
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
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
Rifle Range Open Day Managed by NZDA-BOP branch at
TECT All Terrain 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 www.deerstalkersbop.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.taurangamodelfly.org
Tauranga Organ Keyboard Society Meets first Sunday of the Month 1.30pm at Carmel, 11 Hollister Lane Come Listen / play Organ, Clavinova, Piano. Heather 574 1100
Monday 5 October
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.
Badminton Social Badminton, Greerton Hall, Mon + Fri
10.30am – 12.30pm. All Welcome Ph Lorraine 027 408 6211
Euchre Tauranga Euchre Club, Monday evenings from 7pm. Inquiries - Graeme 027 543 0872
Greerton Garden Club Meets every 2nd Monday of the month Feb-Nov at the Greerton Senior Centre, 33 Maitland St, Greerton at 1pm. Visitors Welcome. Ph:027 253 6704 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
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) 10am 2.30pm. 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 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 7 October 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.
Adult Social Ballroom/Latin Dance Free Introductory Dance Lesson Adult Social Beginner Ballroom/Latin Dance. 8th October 7:30pm. Venue: Tauranga Girls’ College Old Gym. website: www.udance2.co.nz. udance2@xtra.co.nz. 021-2303187(Dean) No partner needed. All welcome. Calling ex Guides All ex Pippin, Brownie, Guide, Ranger or
Commissioners are welcome to join us on the last Thursday of the month at the Atrium Coffee Shop Otumoetai Tauranga 10am. Contact Carole Lindsay 022 365 0548
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 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 for SUMMER. 7-9pm
Every Thursday. St Peters Church. Cameron Rd Entrance. Experience God’s Healing. 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, 027 442 4642.
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 Thursdays 9.30am 12.30pm St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, Dee St. Mt
Tuesday 6 October
Road Bridge Club. Enjoy morning tea, guest speaker, raffles other activities for seniors. Ph Margaret 021 170 5933
friendly group. All ages all welcome. Afternoon tea provided. Parking available. Bus stop nearby. Queries to 027 658 6848
Beginner Social Ballroom/Latin Group Dance Class
500 Card Club Mount Community Hall. 12.15 pm Fun and Altrusa Ladies Service Group Join a group of women for
Arataki Coastal Club For retired/semi-retired people, enjoying friendship, interesting speakers 2nd Tuesday each month 9.45am Arataki Community Centre. Contact Robyn 5722908/Pat 5744257 for more information.
Pond behind 22 Montego Drive Papamoa, sailing Electron Radio Controlled Yachts for fun and competition. Adult beginners welcome. Graham 572 5419.
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 021 1580 129 for details.
friendly group. All ages all welcome. Afternoon tea provided. Parking available. Bus stop nearby. Ph 027 658 6848
Age Concern Walking Group A friendly weekly walking group
meet every Monday 10am, 68 1st Ave to paint together in a supportive environment. Beginners welcome. Annie 021 186 4429
Otumoetai Rotary Electronic Recycling Electronic Recycling.
Radio Controlled Model Yachts Sundays 1:00-3:30pm, at
Scrabble Weekly. Tauranga Citizens Club. 9:15am-1pm. 3 games. All very Welcome. Further details - jacqui@malpass. co.nz
500 Card Club Mount Community Hall. 12.15 pm Fun and
Maunganui. Spinning, knitting, weaving, felting, crochet etc all fibrecrafts. Very friendly group.
community projects & social events. We meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of the month. Sandra 027 4838454; www.altrusa. org.nz
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.
Olympic Style Rifle Shooting Every Tuesday evening at
Thursday 8 October
10 Pin Bowling 1pm 135 13th Ave Tauranga. We are a mixed
Womens Art Group We are a Women’s Art group who
Otumoetai College Car Park Windsor Road for Otumoetai Rotary. Sellers $10. Details Brian 021 122 8735 or Bevan 027 461 2127
Give your gear a new life. Fees apply. Otumoetai College Car Park Windsor Rd 8.00am. Brian 021 12 28735
Mount Runners and Walkers Join us at 9.30am for a run
7.00pm at the Tauranga Target Rifle Club’s range, 165 Elizabeth Street, opposite Tyre master. Public welcome. All gear and coaching provided.
15 Victoria Rd, Mt Maunganui. 9.30-11am. Suitable joint replacements, arthritics, recovery from accident & illness. Strength, coordination & balance. Jennifer 027 206 0776.
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.
monthly 7pm St Johns Church Hall 94 Bureta Road $7 incl Supper and raffles All welcome Ph Nola 576 5076
Tauranga, complex 1, Historic Village, 17th Avenue. To register/more information ph 07 571 6419 or email enquiries@ trmc.co.nz
Recycled Teenagers Gentle Exercise St. Peters church hall,
Tauranga Scottish Society Sequence dance 4th Sat Monthly Tauranga Social Dance Club Sequence Dancing 2nd Sat
Migrant Seniors Morning Tea 10am - 12pm, Multicultural
or walk at our club rooms in May Street, all weather, all year round, Tuesdays and Fridays, all welcome.
Tauranga City Brass Tauranga City Brass Band Practice
at Wesley Church Hall 100/13th Ave 7pm.Dancing, raffles and supper All welcome Ph Nola 576 5076
Classes happening now. Find an activity, join, & do it! All ages. www.letslearn.co.nz or ph 07 578 9416
Papamoa Patchers Patchwork and Quilting meet at St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Hall from 9.30am - 12.30pm each Monday. New members welcome.
St Peters Jigsaw Library Every Saturday 2pm-4pm . Hire for 2 weeks a variety of puzzles. Cash only. Victoria Rd, Mt Maunganui.
conversation in Māori, all levels welcome! 10am GRINDS FirstAv. Nau mai i āu kōrero me tō harikoa.
0984 or taurangaembroiderersguild@gmail.com
Body+Soul for 50+ Fun Fitness for men and women.
social group, non competitive but record the score. Contact Glenda 021 257 8678 for all ages and all fitness levels. 10am start, meet at Kulim Park, Bureta
Body+Soul 50+Fun Fitness For better health, strength and
alternative realities and ufos. Step out of the box and into a coffee meet up. Monthly meetings. Ph Dan 022 462 3316
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 1pm-4pm
beginners welcome. Come and join our friendly group. Ph Brenda 027 229 6992
Boules - Pétanque Saturday, Tuesday, Thursday Try it, it’s fun!
Coffee/Conversation Group -Brookfield Age Concern
13th Ave 10.00am. Come along for Fun Fellowship And Friendship. Visitors very welcome. Pam 578 3757
Russley Dr. 12.45 to 2.30pm, Tues and Thurs. Friendly club, all welcome. Boules available. Call 021 158 0129 for details.
Serenata Singers Thursdays 10 - 11.30, Methodist Church Hall, 2 Oroua Street, Te Puke. Phone Anne 027 850 3776
Wednesday 12.30 for 1pm start. Tauranga Citz Club, 13th Ave.New players very welcome. Jill 021 1606 143
Cherrywood Probus 2nd Tuesday of Month @ Citizens Club
Give Petanque a go Play social petanque at Bayfair Reserve,
Wednesday, 6pm-7pm, Welcome Bay Primary School Hall, 309 Welcome Bay Road. Ph Sonia 0273221786 or just come along. Details on website: www.supremedancecentre.nz
Exercise for better health, strength and balance to great music. Tauranga Senior Citizens hall Norris St. Ph Dianne 027 431 4326
We’ve got boules - 44 Tawa St, Mt Maunganui. First time free. Phone Ray 027 756 3565
Omanu Rebus Club Join our monthly meeting 9.30am at Golf
Cards - cribbage Come and join our friendly group every
Tauranga holds a friendly Coffee and Conversation Group at St Stephens Church, 9 Brookfield Terrace, 10.30am - 12noon, 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.
Starseed UFO club tga Social group for people who are into Tauranga Photographic Society Like to improve your
photography? We meet 1st and third Thursday of each month Feb-Nov. Website www.taurangaphoto.nz
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. Thursdays 10am, 68 1st Avenue Tauranga. Ann 027 280 3510
Friday 9 October
Ladies Tennis Every Wednesday at Tauranga Lawn Tennis
Club. Come join in ladies tennis from 9-11 am. New or seasoned players are welcome
Bay of Plenty Croquet Association Have a Go Days on October 9th, 10th and 11th at Croquet Mount Maunganui Club - 45 Kawaka Street, Mt Maunganui and Tauranga Croquet Club - The Domain Tauranga. 11am - 1pm. Come along and Give Croquet a Go. Phone 027 4819 478 or go to croquetbop.nz
holds a friendly Coffee and Conversation Group, Te Puke Citizens RSA, 179 Jellicoe Street, 10am – 11.30, cost $5pp. All Welcome.
Marching For Leisure A non-competitive activity for mature
Free Public Advocacy Service Need help completing a
Free Public Advocacy Service Need help completing a
Matua Garden Club Meet at Fergusson Park Otumoetai Sports and Recreation Clubrooms Matua. 3rd Wednesday of every month 10am-12pm Contact 021 071 5712 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.
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
Newcomers Coffee Meetup Group New to Tauranga? Come
RAeS BOP Branch meeting Join our organisation for monthly presentations on various aviation matters. At Classic Flyers Museum from 6.00pm, and supper provided.
Chess at Mount Maunganui Mount Maunganui RSA Chess
club, 45 Kawaka Street, Tues 6:15pm & 7pm onwards. excl. Public holidays. for more info http:/www.westernbopchess. weebly.com/ or search “Western BOP Chess”
Coffee/Conversation Group Te Puke Age Concern Tauranga
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 Citz Hall, 33
ladies. Fun, fitness and friendship. For Tauranga teams practice and details ph Linda Wakefield 021 546 605
Maitland St, Greerton. Tuesday nights from 6.45pm. Learners & experienced welcome. Phone Lyn 021 025 20077
along to meet other like-minded people and make new connections. For more information email enquiries@trmc. co.nz or ph 07 571 6419
Greerton Walking Group Meet outside Greerton Library at
Omanu Rebus Club Join our monthly meeting 9.30am at Golf
Inachord Singers Tauranga Women’s Chorus with Musical
Seniors Fitness Greenwood Park Wednesdays 9.15am for
9am for a gentle, local walk with a friendly crowd, followed by a cafe visit. All welcome. Contact Mike 021 180 7429.
singing for twenty years. We practise Monday evenings 7-9pm. Ph Frank 576 3037 David 576 0578
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
Mahjong Every Monday at 12.30pm Tauranga Rowing Club
Keep On Your Feet Katikati Community Centre, 45 Beach
Road Bridge Club. Enjoy morning tea, guest speaker, raffles other activities for seniors. Ph Margaret 021 170 5933
fun fitness to music. Improve strength & balance & gain more confidence. Open to public also. Ph 022 340 6219
Tauranga Embroiderers Guild Wednesdays 7-9pm. Everyone
welcome. For venue confirmation please contact Linda 027 369
form? Accompany you to an appointment? Talk to an agency? Come see us! Every Friday Pāpāmoa Library 1-2:30pm.
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.
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
Yoga For Seniors Fostering strength, balance, flexibility,
breathing and mindfulness. On a mat or optionally seated. The Avenues, Tauranga, 9.30-10.30am. Asunta 021-0614394
Friday 2 October 2026
The Weekend Sun
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CLASSIFIEDSECTION
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deaths LAUDER, Marleen. In loving memory 5.12.1940 - 27.9.2026 Thank you for your love and kindness. Your loving husband Barry and family. MORRIS, Neil Richard. Passed away peacefully surrounded by family on 25 September 2026 aged 85. Beloved husband of June, devoted Dad of Lyn and Heather, Granddad to Danielle, Rhys, Callum and Emma. According to Neil’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place. Now at home with the Lord.
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Public Notices
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For more information or to apply contact: Bernie 027 3527 097
REACH H YOUR...
Gardening & Landscaping
Ph Ben 021 133 1857
bellissimolandscapes@hotmail.com
Livestock & Poultry
drivencarguide.co.nz
AC Petfoods collect injured and unwanted cows and horses. Phone 0800 369 6269
Trade Services
AFFORDABLE ROOF MAINTENANCE
Ph Luke 021 023 00987 Future Roofs
NORDICMOBILITYSUPERSTORE
www.mobilitysuperstorebop.com OFFER EXPIRES 31/10/2026
Designed for the Quality European and North American Markets Our company has been operating vehicle garages in New Zealand for over 20 years with an average annual turnover of over 4 million NZ Dollars. We have a large mobility scooter workshop with an extensive and full range of parts and accessories. We guarantee quality service with qualified technicians available for your peace of mind. All NORDIC mobility scooters meet high international Quality and Safety standards.
NORDIC LUXURY EXPLORER
Large Heavy Duty Luxury Scooter
PACKAGE INCLUDES
• Free 3 year AA Roadside Assistance • Free Tool Kit and Safety Flag • Free Cane and Cane Holder • Free Windscreen • Free Dustcover • Adjustable Tiller • Free Rear Lockable Storage Compartment • Luxury High Back Adjustable Swivel Seat
Phone 0800 69 66 73 For your FREE demonstration at your home NOW
SPECIFICATIONS - Weight Capacity - 180kg - Weight with Batteries - 147kg - Motor Size - 24V / 800W - Max Forward Speed - 15km/h - Distance Range - up to 60km
- Ground Clearance - 12cm - Batteries - 12V /75Ahx2 - Overall Dimensions: 1480 x 640 x 1120mm - Full front and Rear Suspension
ALL WALKERS 1/2 PRICE
50% OFF
MASSIVE SAVINGS ON:
PRIDE LIFT CHAIRS 1/2 PRICE
ELECTRIC LIFT BEDS - New Zealand Made
ELECTRIC LIFT RECLINER CHAIRS
PLUS ALL OTHER MOBILITY PRODUCTS!
From No Deposit & 12 Months Interest Free! T&C’s apply. Offer Expires 30/09/2026
NORDIC MOBILITY - KEEPING YOU INDEPENDENT
visit www.mobilitysuperstorebop.com visit www.mobilitysuperstorebop.com
132 JELLICOE ST, TE PUKE PHONE: 0800 69 66 73 SHOP HOURS: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
132 JELLICOE ST, TE PUKE • PHONE: 0800 69 66 73 SHOP HOURS: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm • Sat 9am-1pm
s2402KWNordic
20% OFF